Best Presentation Clickers for Your Next Speech

Connecting a presentation clicker is straightforward but may vary slightly based on your specific model and device. However, the general steps to connect a presentation clicker are as follows:

1. Insert Batteries: Open the clicker’s battery compartment and insert the required batteries.
2. Turn On the Clicker: Many presentation clickers have a power button or a switch to turn them on.
3. Connect the USB Receiver: Most presentation clickers come with a USB receiver that you need to connect to your computer or device. Plug the USB receiver into an available USB port on your computer.
4. Pair the Clicker (for Bluetooth Models): If you use a Bluetooth-enabled clicker, you may need to pair it with your computer or device. To do this, ensure Bluetooth is enabled on your computer, put the clicker in pairing mode (usually by holding down a specific button), and follow the on-screen prompts to complete the pairing process.
5. Test the Clicker: You can test its functionality once the clicker is powered on and connected to your computer. Open your presentation software (e.g., PowerPoint) and try navigating the slides using the clicker’s buttons.
6. Troubleshooting: If the clicker is not working correctly, ensure that the batteries are inserted properly, the USB receiver is connected securely, and the clicker is within the specified wireless range of your computer.

Remember that specific instructions may vary based on the brand and model of your presentation clicker. Always refer to the user manual provided with your clicker for detailed setup and troubleshooting instructions.

Using a remote clicker in PowerPoint is a simple and effective way to control your presentations. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to use a remote clicker in PowerPoint:

1. Connect the Clicker: Ensure your clicker is turned on and the USB receiver (or Bluetooth connection) is correctly connected to your computer. 
2. Start the Presentation: Open your PowerPoint presentation on your computer.
3. Hold the Clicker: Hold the clicker comfortably, ensuring easy button access.
4. Advance Slides: During the presentation, click the forward (or next) button on the clicker to move to the next slide. The slide should change on your computer screen as well.
5. Go Back: If you need to return to the previous slide, press the back button on the clicker.
6. Use Other Functions (if available): Some clickers offer additional functions, such as laser pointers, highlighting, blank screens, or timer controls. Refer to the user manual or the clicker’s buttons to access these features.
7. End the Presentation: When you finish your presentation, click the “Esc” key on your keyboard or use the clicker’s function to exit full-screen mode and return to PowerPoint.

Both green and red laser pointers can be practical for presentations, but each has its advantages and considerations:

Green Laser Pointers:

1. Visibility: Green lasers are generally more visible to the human eye than red ones, especially in brightly lit rooms or when projecting on screens with high ambient light.
2. Long Range: Green lasers tend to have a more extended range than red lasers, making them suitable for larger venues and auditoriums.
3. Professional Look: Green lasers often appear more vibrant and professional, which can enhance the presenter’s image.

Red Laser Pointers:

1. Cost-Effective: Red lasers are more common and often affordable than green ones.
2. Suitable for Small Rooms: Red lasers can be as effective as green ones in smaller meeting rooms or classrooms with lower ambient light.
3. Eye Safety: Some green lasers may have a higher power output, which can concern eye safety. Conversely, red lasers are generally considered safer and are often used with lower power ratings.

Regardless of the color, always ensure the laser pointer you choose is within safe power levels and handle it responsibly to avoid any potential hazards.

To make your PowerPoint slides advance automatically, follow these steps:

1. Open your PowerPoint presentation.
2. Click on the “Slide Show” tab in the top menu.
3. In the “Set Up” group, click “Set Up Slide Show.”
4. In the “Set Up Show” dialog box, under the “Show type” section, select “Presented by a speaker (full screen).”
5. In the “Advance slides” section, choose the desired option: 
   1. “Use timings, if present” – This option will advance the slides automatically based on your set timings for each slide. 
   2. “Manually” – This option requires you to click the mouse or use the keyboard to advance the slides.
6. If you want to set specific timings for each slide, go back to your presentation, and in the “Normal” view, select the slide you want to set timings for.
7. Click on the “Transitions” tab in the top menu.
8. In the “Timing” group, you can specify the “After” time under “Advance Slide.” This will determine how long the slide will remain on the screen before advancing to the next one.
9. Repeat Step 8 for each slide you want to advance automatically.
10. Save your presentation.

Now, when you start the slideshow, the slides will advance automatically according to the timings you’ve set or the option you’ve chosen in the “Set Up Show” dialog box. Rehearse your presentation to ensure the timings align with your speaking pace and content delivery.