If you participate remotely in a video conference, follow these instructions to ensure the best experience.
1. Try to connect via a wired Ethernet jack. This prevents WiFi dropouts and speed issues.
2. If connecting from a laptop, plug in the laptop wall power. Battery use can adversely affect video quality.
3. Test the connection before the call; this is strongly recommended.
- If you use Zoom: Go to the Zoom site to test your audio connection or test your video connection.
- If you use WebEx: Go to your WebEx Personal Room. Test your audio connection using the Audio pull-down menu. Test your video connection by viewing the screen in your Personal Room.
4. Ensure that you have a camera, microphone, and headphones or speakers available. Earbuds or headphones are preferable to avoid audio feedback and echo. Most modern laptops and all-in-one desktops have a headphone jack, microphone, and speakers built in.
5. Be aware of your surroundings and how you appear visually.
- Call from a quiet location with no background noise.
- Close blinds on windows so that you are easier to see on video.
- Wear neutral, solid-colored clothing. Avoid black, white, or striped clothing.
6. Be aware of your behavior. Because you are on a video conference, people can see what you are doing at all times.
7. Be aware that ITS cannot troubleshoot remote connections in non-Stanford locations, because there are many equipment configurations and network connectivity options.
8. Follow all instructions in the video conferencing invitation and note important supplemental information, such as a backup phone number in case you are disconnected.