Most common problems with video-based meetings can be solved in a couple of steps. For the best video-based meeting experience, we highly recommend you do the following before a call:
Test Your Camera and Mic
- The first time you attend an online support group, your web browser may prompt you to enable plugins or ask permission to use your microphone and webcam. Please see Enabling Plugins and Permissions for guidance.
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If you are using an external device for your camera, please run a test (see last bullet point) before your meeting to make sure it is compatible with our video platform.
Recommended View Settings During Meeting
Background
- You can choose a blurred background or an image for your background in the meeting. These background settings should only be used if you have a strong, stable internet connection.
- *Note: if you are experiencing issues in meeting, like a lag in sound or video, please turn the background settings off.
Grid or Speaker View
- After entering the meeting, we recommend choosing "Speaker View" instead of the "Grid View" option.
Browser "View" Setting
- We recommend viewing the meeting in the "Actual Size" (or 100%), within the browser.
- Please do not "Zoom In" or "Zoom Out" to change your "View" settings. Zooming your view in or out on the browser can cause errors with your meeting, making it difficult to see participants, the speaker, or the chat window.
- To make sure your "View" setting is set to "Actual Size," open a webpage and click on the View tab of your browser, and then select Actual Size.
- *Note: if the Actual Size option is greyed out, that means your view is already set to Actual Size.
Change View in Zoom Meeting
If your meeting is being held in Zoom, on the top right hand corner, you will see the View icon. Click on this to change from Speaker to Gallery view, or have the meeting window expand to your Full screen. We recommend you have the selection on Speaker view.
Use an Updated Browser
- We recommend using Chrome for your browser. Please see Recommended Web Browser to see which browser is best for the device you are using.
- If you do not know what browser you are using, you can visit this site: whatismybrowser.com. It will tell you what browser you are using, and if an update is needed.
Connect to a Stable Network
- Preferably connect to a network through an ethernet cable, especially if you are using an older device.
- If you are using WiFi on your computer or on a mobile device, make sure there are not too many devices connected, and that you close out of any applications you are not using.
Use Headphones or a Headset
- Using headphones or a headset prevents background noise and audio feedback issues.
- We recommend using a plugged in headset, and avoid using a Bluetooth device. Some Bluetooth devices have difficulty connecting.
Run a Systems Check Before Your Meeting
- We recommend you run a test at https://test.8x8.vc/ to diagnose any problems before you get started. This test will help identify any issues for your microphone, camera, network and connection.
- Please send an email for technical assistance to support@heypeers.com, along with any screenshots of known issues.