If equipment is not working correctly, troubleshooting procedures need to take place. Often the problem will be a damaged lead or connector which can usually be quickly rectified.

If this is not the case, check the company equipment log to see if this piece of equipment has any know faults and fixes. If that does not help, check the equipment manual, sometimes a problem may be a simple thing that has been overlooked. You can also look online to see if other’s have had the same problem with the equipment. Also check with workplace colleagues. Some equipment can be a little ‘temperamental’ and other colleagues may be able to show you how to fix it. If none of these solutions work, a quick call to the Manufacturer or supplier may be neccesary to get assistance with particular problems.

Equipment malfunctions can cost a lot of time at a bump in and can cause considerable stress to the technician. Sometimes, if it is within your level of authority, it is just quicker to get another piece of equipment from stores to substitute the malfunctioning piece of equipment. It is important to log any equipment faults, otherwise, you may be facing the same problem at the next event. If a piece of equipment gives you an electric shock, do not continue using it, label it and log it and find a substitute piece of equipment.

If your level of authority does not allow you to make certin decisions about equipment make sure that the problem is passed on quickly to the apropriate person so that it can be solved in a timely manner.

1. identify the fault or problem:

• investigate likely cause(s)

• eliminate unlikely options

• conduct tests

2. consider possible solutions

3. take remedial action in accordance with:

• manufacturer/supplier recommendations

• colleague and/or supervisor instructions

4. within scope of responsibility:

• rectify

• refer to appropriate personnel

5. evaluate effectiveness of action taken

Many issues can arise when working with vision systems.

Using the 'steps in troubleshooting' and the 'problem-solving cycle' discuss an appropriate approach to resolving the following issues:

• After installation of your vision system, 1 of the 3 projectors are not displaying the same images as the others.

• During the second act of a production, a video camera's battery runs out.

• As the vision technician, you realise the venue does not have power in the required locations for the vision plan you have been asked to install.

• A presenter arrives with their presentation on a laptop that does not have the same output as your equipment.

If there is a problem that cannot be fixed easily and within your realm of experience and authority then recording and reporting this problem is an essential step. Your workplace will usually have some sort of document to fill out or you can notify the relevant person through email or seeing them in person.

Complete the two sections of your workbook on Troubleshooting (left).