Basic Video Chat Tech Tips
1. Use Headphones. This is essential.
2. Find out where the Microphone is on your PC or Mac. Talk into it, naturally. Make sure nothing is blocking it (a mouse, a cable, a post it note, etc.) A headset mic and earphone is the best possible setup, but not required.
3.Make sure you know where your video camera is located, so you can look into when you talk to the group. Ensure you don’t have a bright light or bright window behind you shining into the camera. If you have dim light behind you and a light in front of you (a desk light, a window) you’ll look best. Light from the top may show shadows under your features.
4. Use a current browser, and have a current version of Flash. We recommend Internet Explorer 9, Firefox 5 or greater, or Safari 5 or greater. We have had issues with the Chrome browser.
How to Sign Into the Video Support Group
1. Go to the assigned URL. You’ll see both the Video and Chat widgets on the page.
2. Start with the Chat Widget so in case you are having trouble with video,
4. You may see a security dialog box asking you to allow use of your camera and mic.
TroubleShooting
If you know you have a working camera and mic, but you’re not seeing yourself, or others are not hearing you, these are a few things to try.
1. Make sure other instant messaging clients that use your Video or Audio are not running on your computer or in your task bar. These include programs like Skype, AOL IM, Yahoo IM, MSN Messenger, iChat, Facetime, and Meebo.
2. Make sure your camera and mic are plugged in if they are external or USB devices. Make sure they’re powered on.
4. Some users have seen a different security dialog. It looks like the screen below. Click “Ok, Guide Me.”
You’ll get a dialog that looks like this:
Follow the instructions line for line. Once you’ve closed the Adobe Flash settings page, REFRESH the video chat window. You should then be able to “Allow” the video chat and proceed normally.