Virtual Meetings: Tips and Camera Options
Welcome to the future… errr… current form of meetings, Video Conferencing! While video conferencing has been common in multi-branch businesses for over a decade, it’s use in small business has been far more limited up till today. So what’s the best way to Zoom your Teams across the Web-ex?
Learn to use a Virtual Background. If the space that you’re conferencing in has a cluttered or distracting background, you can enable a Virtual Background in many apps. Here are links to instructions for Zoom (Windows, MacOS, and iOS), WebEx (iOS only). Microsoft Teams doesn’t support Virtual Background yet (although they are expected to release this feature in the next month), but they do allow you to blur your background, which may work well for you. Consider using something like Publisher, Powerpoint, or even a simple web app like Canva to create a professional background image for you to use.
Make sure your Wifi is up to the challenge! If you have the option to connect to “networkname”-5G, try connecting to that network for greater bandwidth and less congestion. Keep in mind 5Ghz wifi can’t penetrate walls and structures as well as 2Ghz, however it’s far quicker in most cases if you can maintain a good connection. If you repeatedly have issues, try running a quick speedtest to see what kind of bandwidth you’re getting? Try Megapath or DSLReports speed test. Your upload bandwidth (indicated as the up arrow on DSLReports), quality, bufferbloat, and jitter are far more important than a big download number. DSL really tends to struggle here, as most dsl connections struggle to break 20mbps of download bandwidth, and more than 2-5 mbps of upstream bandwidth. Spectrum on the other hand typically starts at a MIMINUM of 200mbps download and 10mbps upload bandwidth, and only goes up from there. Likewise, fiber internet can offer massive download and upload bandwidth and quality.
Consider using a Bluetooth headset during your call. Not only will this typically reduce the background noise in your calls, but it can keep conversations private and avoid disturbing those around you. This can be done with your phone, tablet, and oftentimes even your laptop or desktop computer.
If you don’t have a webcam and need to order one… good luck! Webcams have been selling out rapidly, but in general units from Logitech and Microsoft are reliable, and easy to use. The more expensive units tend to have quality improvements from automatic tracking to keep you centered if you move around your desk, better microphones for clearer audio, and more.
As always, if you have more questions, please don’t hesitate to contact us at Aces IT Support LLC to resolve your video conferencing woes.