PowerPoint (PPT) slideshows - Import and conversion - Images slide show

Applicable SongShow Plus Versions: 
This article applies to SongShow Plus 9.x and Later

* Updates affecting this feature may be available. Ensure that you are using the most current build of SongShow Plus from the Download page before proceeding. *

Many people still use Microsoft PowerPoint for building slide show content. SongShow Plus can, in many cases, use the native PowerPoint files using the built in 3rd party support plug-in when a supported version of Microsoft PowerPoint is installed (see article FAQ22). There are, however, several limitations and restrictions to using this and it is not the most compatible with SongShow Plus. Using native SongShow Plus file types is infinitely more versatile and reliable.

Fortunately, SongShow Plus has a couple of very useful tools that can solve most of the problems that people have with Microsoft PowerPoint files. One of these tools is the Images panel Microsoft PowerPoint Importer tool. This tool is ideal for a Microsoft PowerPoint file that was created for a sermon, presentation or other event where step by step progression is needed. This tool can also create image based announcement reels or other autorun slideshows. This tool will convert your Microsoft PowerPoint file to a SongShow Plus slideshow file that can be added and played in the Program panel as a fully supported SongShow Plus media format.

Use the steps below to get started and as you get more familiar with the tool you can optimize it to meet your needs.

• Launch SongShow Plus.
• From the Media Files panel, select the Slide Shows tab.
• Select a destination folder from the file tree.
• From the Slide Shows tab toolbar, select Create or Acquire from... > Microsoft PowerPoint Importer.
• Select option a - Convert a PowerPoint Presentation.
• Read the brief intro then click the Next button.
• If your Microsoft PowerPoint file is on the desktop it will appear in the default list, otherwise click the browse... button to locate the file you want to convert to  a slide show.
• Once the desired file is selected, click the Next button.
• Select the slides - normally all would be included and selected by default. You can also select either Image per slide or Image per slide step.
• Click Next and set the Image Options. This should default to the size of the main display but can be adjusted as needed.  PNG file type is recommended. 
• Click Next and add a transition if desired.
• Click Next, then the Import button.
• Depending on the length of the Microsoft PowerPoint slideshow and the size selected, the conversion may take a bit of time. It will display a "working..." indicator during the render process.
• Once complete, the resulting SongShow Plus slideshow file can be given an appropriate name, then click Save.
• From the option menu, select what to do with the new slide show file.

NOTE: If the original PPT file was an autorun, you will need to edit the resulting SSP slideshow and set your autorun preferences. 

You can also view this video that demonstrates this solution.

If this article does not resolve the issue, contact the Support Team.

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