Courtroom Technology

Guidance on Use of Courtroom Technology Equipment

Please review the information below, if you have any questions regarding the use of courtroom technology, please contact the court’s IT Help Desk at (202) 357-6404. Training can also be arranged if required.

All currently installed equipment such as monitors, document cameras, and microphones should not be moved without assistance. Do not remove or change pre-existing cables. Do not bring in outside equipment such as projectors or video splitters without first contacting the IT Office for further guidance and instruction.

Courtroom Technology Information

Most courtrooms at the U.S. Court of Federal Claims contain the following technology:

Video Evidence Presentation System

  • Each courtroom contains 2-4 large screen monitors with desktop monitors for Judge, witness, council tables and lectern
    *courtroom resolution varies, common resolutions are: 1280x768, 1280x720, and 1920x1080
  • Document camera at lectern – display paper items on all screens in the courtroom
  • HDMI and VGA connection for laptops at council tables, lectern, and witness – show laptop screen on all monitors in the courtroom and play audio through the sound system**
    *some courtrooms support VGA only
  • Annotation – allows users at the lectern or witness position to draw on the screen to highlight items on display**

Audio System

  • Assisted listening and interpreter systems – headphones provide the audio in the courtroom for the hearing impaired**
  • Wireless microphone – handheld mic or lapel mic**
  • Audio conferencing – allow multiple parties to participate over the sound system via telephone in the courtroom. The court requires parties use a landline for quality, no cell phones

Video Conferencing

  • Video conferencing – allow parties to connect via the U.S. Court video conferencing bridge. Courtrooms contain three cameras: Judge, lectern / council table, witness. Consumer quality video conferencing software is not permitted (i.e. Skype, Face Time). Parties must have permission from the Judge and arrange at least one month in advance for use of video conferencing technology**
  • For more information on video conferencing, click here.

**not available in all courtrooms