Friday, March 6, 2009

Make A Homemade Teleprompter

A teleprompter is a device that scrolls through a script while an actor or speaker reads the text. A teleprompter is an aid used while recording any type of video content, such as a video podcast, amateur news episode or documentary, or for public speakers who may forget their lines. Commercial teleprompters are often expensive, and may exceed your budget. Fortunately, you can make your own homemade teleprompter using a basic Android tablet or iPad, and teleprompter software.


Instructions


1. Purchase an Android tablet or iPad. Because the tablet is only going to be used as a teleprompter, it is not necessary to buy a high-end device with state-of-the-art hardware. Instead, purchase a tablet that is within your budget.


2. Download a teleprompter application for your tablet, such as Teleprompt+ (apple.com), Prompster (apple.com) or Prompterous HD (apple.com). Be sure to download an iPad app if you're using an iPad, or an Android app if you're using an Android tablet. Compare the apps' features and choose the one you feel is best for your teleprompting needs.








3. Open the App Store if you're using an iPad by tapping the "App Store" icon. Open the Android Marketplace if you're using an Android by tapping the "Marketplace" icon. Search for the teleprompter app you want to download. Select the app. Pay for it if necessary, then download it to your device.








4. Open the teleprompter app you downloaded by tapping its icon. Create a new prompt or import a teleprompter file or supported text file. Check with the app's help files or website for information specific to the application, such as supported file types and import instructions.


5. Tap the prompt you want to play in the app's library or prompt list, then tap the button to launch it, which may be titled "Launch," "Play" or "Start"; the exact word varies for each teleprompting application, and may be different on the app you downloaded.


6. Place the tablet on a stand and position it so that it is visible to your speaker or actor. Start the app when your speaker is ready to talk or you're ready to record.

Tags: Android tablet, Android tablet iPad, tablet iPad, using Android, using iPad, your budget