PowerPreview is a software program that allows 'pre-viewing' of Microsoft PowerPoint slides on a computer monitor (typically a lap-top) independent of and prior to showing the slides on a data projector. It allows the operator to view slides on the computer monitor separately from the data projector's display.

PowerPreview is primarily designed as a tool to assist in corporate worship.

Using PowerPreview, the operator can select the songs to be used for a particular worship service from a master list of songs. The songs chosen appear in a 'play list', and can be selected individually as required. Once selected all the verses of the song (ie all slides making up that song) appear in 'picture-boxes' on the lap-top screen, allowing the operator to 'pre-view' the song. The operator then simply clicks on the 'picture-box' of the verse he wants and the projector displays it. Moving from one verse to another is achieved by clicking on the desired verse. When the next song is required the operator clicks on the song in the 'play list' and the 'picture-boxes' are changed to show the verses of the new song. Clicking on a 'picture-box' causes it to be displayed on the data projector meaning the operator does not need to flick through unwanted verses to get to the next part of the song to be sung.

PowerPreview is designed to use Microsoft PowerPoint, with each song set up as a separate PowerPoint presentation. Each presentation should be saved as the title and/or first line of the song for easy recognition in the program. When the program first fires up, it builds its master list of songs from a particular directory (C:\PowerPreview), so ideally all songs should be saved to this directory (however the program does allow for a different directory to be chosen).

System requirements:

Windows 98, Windows ME, Windows 2000, or Windows XP and second video card, or single card with 2 outputs for dual monitors.

PowerPreview makes use of a windows feature called 'Multiple monitors' which allows a computer to utilise more than one monitor. Each monitor requires it's own video card input and together the monitor displays form one large Windows desktop. This allows the user to simultaneously view a different programme on each monitor. PowerPreview uses the second video card or monitor output to supply the image to a data projector (acting as a second monitor screen). This allows the operator to have a display independent of what the data projector is showing. The resolution of both monitors should be the same (800x600 minimum recommended).

PowerPreview is covered by all the usual Software Copyright policies. © Blockhouse Bay Baptist Church. 2003.

PowerPreview is available for NZD $50 + postage etc (includes GST).