Restricted Video Content
In classrooms and event spaces on campus, there is copy protection installed on various computers, media equipment, displays and projectors called HDCP, or High Bandwidth Digital Content Protection. It is designed to prevent unauthorized distribution of video content.
Because of this, certain content may not be playable in classrooms and event spaces. As a rule of thumb, anything you use your personal credentials to log into, will likely not be able to be played in public. For example:
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Netflix
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Prime Video
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Disney
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Hulu
These streaming services are copyright and cannot be played in public - only at home. Having a group of friends over to watch a movie is fine, but playing the same movie from a streaming service in a public place, such as anywhere on the University, is prohibited and digitally prevented. This is also true with DVDs and BluRay discs. Once a device (such as a computer or DVD player) detects it is connected to a display or projector, it will activate the HDCP code and prevent you from showing the video. It may play fine on your laptop screen, but it won’t work when the laptop is connected to a classroom or event space system. In many systems, only a green screen will appear. This is an indication that the system is preventing you from playing content blocked by HDCP.
If you need to play copyright material for a class or an event, contact the Library. If the Library has the video on file, we can set you up to play it via Medial, our on campus video distribution platform. If the Library doesn’t have it on file, they may be able to acquire it. If the Library doesn’t have it on file and cannot acquire it, unfortunately, you will be unable to play the video on campus.
If you have further questions or concerns, please contact Media Services or the Library.