Automated Classroom Backup Recording System
Harbert College of Business – Auburn University
Completed: July 2025
As part of a joint initiative with my coworker Matt Baker to improve the reliability of lecture capture within the Harbert College of Business, we developed and deployed an automated backup recording system for all classrooms and conference rooms across the college.
This system was designed to address a common issue: the risk of losing lecture recordings due to software errors, hardware failures, or user mistakes. To solve this, we created a background process that automatically starts a backup recording whenever a class session begins.
Additionally, we developed a locally hosted web server that integrates with each classroom’s recording machine. The dashboard provides a centralized interface where administrators can view real-time system status, send remote commands to each computer, and inspect logs for troubleshooting and validation.
Key Features & Technologies Used:
- OBS WebSocket API: Integrated with OBS (Open Broadcaster Software) using the WebSocket plugin to programmatically control recording sessions.
- Dual-feed Capture: Simultaneously records both the in-room camera and lectern content to ensure complete classroom coverage.
- Automation & Reliability: The system runs without user input and is triggered based on scheduling or activity, ensuring a seamless backup without burdening instructors.
- Redundancy & Data Security: Recordings are stored securely and systematically labeled, providing easy access in the event a primary lecture recording is corrupted or missing.
- Centralized Web Dashboard: A locally hosted interface shows real-time status, log output, and remote control capabilities for all classroom systems.
By implementing this solution, we significantly improved the college’s ability to maintain consistent lecture records, reduced the risk of lost instructional content, and enhanced the overall reliability of classroom technology infrastructure.
Web Server Interface Preview:
