Norris Technical Services – Audio/Visual Cheat Sheet
1.
“I need a mic.” You may need more than a mic. A sound system is also necessary for a mic to work. These can be rented
from us (as a powered speaker, small PA, medium PA, or large PA). Many rooms have sound systems already in them in
which case a microphone can simply be hooked into it. Remember: when using rooms outside of Norris it is a good idea to
check with Academic Technologies first to see if they already have the necessary equipment in the room.
2.
“I just need one speaker.” We have several options available. Equipment needs are based on audience size and location.
We have battery powered options, for locations where power might not be available. Sometimes, one speaker might not
be enough. Also specify what you’re trying to connect, so we ensure the equipment is compatible. Technical Services is
available to refer you to a number of vendors to help you with any equipment needs that are not possible due to policies
and/or inventory.
3.
“What if I know how to run the equipment myself?” We have several basic options available for “self service” rentals,
including megaphones, battery powered speakers, small PAs, projectors, screens, and laptops. Larger or more complex
systems will require a technician to be on hand for setup and operation.
4.
“What sound system do I need?” We are happy and encourage you to meet with us regarding any of your technical needs
for your event. A general guideline for your reference: a small PA can address a crowd of 50-100, a medium PA 100-150,
and a large PA 150-300 (these numbers are very generally interpreted and depend greatly on many other factors).
5.
“We have a great band coming next month…” Ask the performer to provide a stage plot (diagram) and tech rider (a listing
of what they expect from you for their performance. A section ought to include technical expectations.) We will look at the
rider and determine what we can provide for the band and refer outside vendors to you for any needs that are outside our
policies and/or inventory (tech riders are usually only going to be for larger bands that require contracts. For smaller bands
please meet with them and acquire a list or send them to meet with us.)
6.
“How do I book Technical Services equipment?” If your event is within Norris, start with your event planners, and they’ll
direct you how to proceed. For events at Norris Satellite Venues, contact the Satellites staff. For outdoor events, please
first fill out an outdoor event request, and then you can fill out the AV Request Form on our website. Please note, outdoor
events will require an amplified sound permit from the City of Evanston. For events at other indoor locations on campus,
start with the person who booked you the space, and then you can submit the AV Request Form on our website.
7.
“How much will it cost?” Within Norris meeting rooms, basic AV equipment is included. If you’re having an event in
another location, or need something out of the ordinary, we’re happy to provide a quote.
NU Student Organizations automatically receive a discounted rate!
8.
“How do I pay for Tech Services Equipment?” You will be asked to provide a chartstring for billing. Student Organizations
must have an active SOFO account. We do not accept cash, charge, or check transactions. We also require 7 business days
notice to properly staff your event (we always appreciate as much heads up as possible with every event, so once you know
what you need please call and reserve it with us).
9.
“Are sound systems all that Technical Services does?” Our inventory also includes projectors, laptops, and more. If you
aren’t sure if we have it, feel free to call and ask. If we do not have the equipment you need in our inventory we can
recommend a number of outside vendors that can help you.
10. “Who is my contact for Technical Services?” Christopher Burpee is the Technical Services Manager. Additionally, Technical
Services has many audio-visual technicians and A/V supervisors on its staff.
11. “Where are you located?” We are located in the Norris University Center. Our main office is on the 3rd floor, across from
the elevator. If you’re picking up a “self-service” rental, you can go to the Center Desk, located on the 1st Floor.
Norris Event Planning
(847) 491-2330
Norris-events@northwestern.edu
Visit www.northwestern.edu/norris, and click on Events for more information.
Norris Technical Services
(847) 491-2335
norristechnicalservices@northwestern.edu
Norris Technical Services
Pricing for equipment and services
All equipment built into Norris meeting rooms is included in the price of your reservation, if applicable.
Within Norris, basic technician assistance is included.
All additional equipment and labor is priced as follows:
Services
Student
Department
Equipment Delivery and Pickup
$15 each
$15 each
Technician Hours*
$12/hour
$12/hour
*If you need a dedicated technician, the price is as listed with a 2 hour minimum.
Standard Price
$25 each
$25/hour
Equipment Rentals - Packages
Megaphone
Battery Powered Speaker
Large Powered Speaker
Medium PA - Sound System
Large PA – Sound System*
Student
Department
Standard Price
$20/day
$30/day
$50/day
$30/day
$50/day
$75/day
$45/day
$75/day
$100/day
$90/day
$140/day
$175/day
*Custom Quote. Norris or Norris Lawns only. Requires 2 Techs.
Prices start at $225/day, not including staff.
Equipment Rentals - A la carte items*
Student
Department
HDMI Cable
$2.00/day
$3.00/day
XLR or 1/4" Cable
$2.00/day
$3.00/day
1/8" Auxillary Cord
$2.00/day
$3.00/day
Extension Cord
$1.50/day
$3.00/day
Power Strip
$1.00/day
$2.00/day
Blu-ray/DVD Player
$25.00/day
$40.00/day
Microphone
$10.00/day
$18.00/day
Microphone Stand
$1.50/day
$3.00/day
Projector
$75.00/day
$105.00/day
Projection Screen
$15.00/day
$20.00/day
Presentation Remote
$10.00/day
$15.00/day
Speaker Stand
$1.00/day
$3.00/day
*Norris Technical Services has a $15 minimum for all a la carte equipment rentals
Standard Price
$3.00/day
$3.00/day
$3.00/day
$3.00/day
$2.00/day
$40.00/day
$18.00/day
$3.00.00/day
$200.00/day
$20.00/day
$15.00/day
$3.00/day
Sales Items*
Student
Department
Standard Price
Gaffers Tape (ProGaff, Black, 2” Roll)
$25 each
$25 each
$30 each
Electrical Tape
$5 each
$5 each
$5 each
AA Batteries (Duracell Procell or Interstate)
$1 each
$2 each
$2 each
AAA Batteries (Duracell Procell or Interstate) $1 each
$2 each
$2 each
9V Batteries (Duracell Procell or Interstate)
$2 each
$3 each
$3 each
*Norris Technical Services will tape down cables we setup, as necessary, at no additional cost.
*1 set of batteries is included in every wireless microphone and presentation remote we provide.
All pricing is correct as of 4/26/16, but is subject to change at any time.
Only frequently used items are listed. If there is something you need that is not listed, please reach out for a quote.