Library

Collaboration Stations

The Roberta A. Smith Library has several Solstice Pods, including in our bookable study rooms(008 & 009), our bookable meeting room (137), and at our first-come first-serve Collaboration Stations, located on the main floor of the library.

Whether you have a group project, a club meeting, or just want a quiet place to watch Netflix with a couple friends, the screensharing software of Solstice provides a solution to craning your necks to see each others' laptop screens.  For more information on how to use the pods, see the links and instructions below.

Downloading and Installing Solstice

Windows7/8/10: Click here to download the software.  If it does not automatically begin to install, find the file in your Downloads folder and double click to open and run the installation.

Mac (OSX): Click here to download the software.  If it does not automatically begin to install, find the file in your Downloads folder and double click to open and run the installation.

Windows XP: Click here to download the software.  If it does not automatically begin to install, find the file in your Downloads folder and double click to open and run the installation.

iOS Devices: Click here to be directed to the app's iTunes page, where you can download it like any other app.

Android Devices: Click here to be directed to the app's Google Play page, where you can download it like any other app.

Chromebooks and Other Devices: If your operating system or device is not listed above, it is not yet compatible with Solstice technology.  However, Windows laptops equipped with Solstice are available for checkout at the Welcome Center with your Student ID.

Using Solstice

Once the app is installed on your computer or smart device, you need to make sure that your device is connected to the MCStudent wireless network.

The first time you start Solstice, it will ask you to name your device.  This will be the name that appears on the bottom of the pod screen that you are connected to.

When your device is named, you will need to choose the correct pod name from the list the app provides.  The pod name is prominent on the pod's screen (for example, SBLIB135N).  It will then ask you to authenticate by entering the screen key, a four-digit code found below the pod name.

You should now be connected!  Click "Mirror Screen" or "Share Desktop" to throw your screen onto the pod.  If you are using an iOS device, you will need to open Air Play and turn on "Mirror Screen" for the pod before you can share your screen.

When you have finished using the pod, please make sure that everybody in your group disconnects from the session before leaving. Not doing so can crash the software, requiring a reset of the pod.

Troubleshooting Solstice Pods

  • Nothing is showing on the pod screen.
    • Make sure the screen is turned on.  The power button will be on either the left or right side of the screen, on the bottom of the row of buttons.
  • The screen is turned on, but there is still nothing on it.
    • The screen could have been turned to the incorrect HDMI channel or the pod could need to be reset.  Please see a library staff member for assistance.
  • Everytime I leave the Solstice App on my phone, it freezes and kicks me off the pod.
    • The Power Saving function of many phones prevents background tasks from operating to save energy.  Your phone considers the Solstice app as a background task if it is minimized, meaning that as soon as you leave it the app will crash.  Turn off your Power Saving function or plug in your device at the table.
  • If any problem arises that is not covered here, please see a library employee.
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