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Discontinuation of VCRs in ATLAS Classrooms

ATLAS Classrooms will be removing VCRs from all of our computer classrooms during Summer 1 of 2009 (May 18-June 13). Currently ATLAS offers multi-standard VCRs & region-free DVD players in our student computer classrooms. These play media from around the world. This will NOT affect room G96 FLB or the Lucy Ellis Lounge. every student computer classroom will have an auxiliary input for connecting things like VCRs if you would like to bring your own to class. CITES Classtech has also recently announced that they will remove VCRs from their classrooms over Winter Break of 2009.

Some of our multi-standard VCRs may be available for departments to take. If your department is interested, please let us know.

Unfortunately, VCR technology is becoming difficult to replace. The multi-standard VCRs like we currently have are no longer available for purchase new. As the units we currently have in place break down, we can no longer get them fixed or replace them with comparable units. Our spares are almost gone now, and more are likely to die off in the near future. To replace them with new units, we would also have to purchase cost-prohibitive conversion equipment and add to the already complex systems we have in place, increasing the likelihood of equipment incompatibility and stability issues. We feel that the College would be best served by preserving the functioning VCRs we do have and using them to help convert tapes to DVD or other digital media while we still can (before they break down completely).

Most media is now available on DVD, or if it is not available, can be converted to DVD or other digital media by ATLAS. Rather than continue to rely on old technology whose performance will continue to degrade, we want to ensure that you have the resources you need going forward. We will work with anyone who requests help in planning your transition from VHS to DVD or other digital media. This might mean just getting your media converted, or it might involve VCR loan services to some rooms for a period of time while that conversion takes place.

If you have any questions or wan to meet with someone to help plan your conversions, please contact us.