U.S. Courts Design Guide
Exhibit boards can be portable or built-in (preferred). The boards can be integrated
with the courtroom design by a flush swivel-mount display system including doors
that are finished in the same material as the wall. When not in use, display boards
should be covered by doors.
Each board should be at least 54 inches (1375 mm) high, 42 inches (1075 mm)
wide, and 36 inches (925 mm) above floor level. The angle of vision should be
greater than 30 degrees.
White, magnetic dry-marker boards for charting, drawing, and holding paper
exhibits, as well as tackboard for cardboard exhibits, should be provided. Storage
for an adequate supply of magnetic strips, markers, and cleaning cloths should be
provided.
Image Projection. Slide projectors, movie projectors, video monitors, and
recorders should be stored at a central location for use in courtrooms. A roll-up
projection screen should be installed in the courtroom. A portable, collapsible
projector stand for easy storage should also be considered. If built-in, the stand can
be recessed into a wall. For presenting medical evidence, a built-in x-ray viewer or
shadow box can be integrated with courtroom wall design. A portable unit can be
shared by multiple courtrooms.
Electrical outlets must be provided at anticipated locations of audio-visual
equipment.
For a detailed explanation of expected audio-visual-data systems for courtrooms,
please refer to Electronic Courtroom/Chambers, An Interim Guide to Courtroom
Technologies and Guide Specifications for Modification/Installation of Audio
Systems in United States Courthouses, available from the AOUSC.
Clock. A clock power outlet should be located in the courtroom as directed by the
judge.
Budgetary Notes
A cost-effective palette, consistent with the
project budget, should be designated by the
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