Equipment list recommendations
Equipment recommendations for Video Call
To participate in a Video Call you will need a computer or device, such as a phone or tablet, connected to the internet, as outlined here. If you are using a computer with no built in camera, microphone or speakers (eg a desktop computer) you will need to connect these to your computer, usually via USB. If you are in a room with more than 3 people and you will all be participating in a call, you may need a video conferencing camera, a microphone capable of picking up all participants, speaker/s powerful enough for everyone to hear and and a larger screen.
Remember that if you have more than one camera/microphone/speaker connected or in-built in your computer, you will need to select the desired one in your computer's system preferences or settings. You can also do this in the Video Call screen.
Below is a list of equipment you will need. This equipment would suit 1 - 3 people sitting around a computer participating in a call. Please note that the pictures are examples only and are added to give you an idea of what you are looking for:
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Camera: If you do not have an inbuilt camera for your computer you will need to connect to an external one. There are many auto-focus web cameras that easily connect via USB to your computer - and many of these also have an inbuilt microphone. Make sure you use one that is High Definition (HD) - either 720p or 1080p. The two logitech models shown here work well with video call. |
Logitech HD 1080P Pro Stream Webcam C922 |
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Microphone: You will need a microphone connected to your computer - many web cameras have an inbuilt mic so check before you purchase anything. You will need to be fairly close to the mic to be heard clearly. |
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Speakers: You may already have speakers connected to your computer, especially if you watch online videos. If not you can connect via mini-jack or USB. |
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Headset (optional): Noise cancellation is recommended, where possible, so you are not distracted by other noises around you and can focus on your patient or client. Pictured here is a headset with microphone. There are various brands available that would work well with Video Call. |
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Analog switch for headsets If you are using Video Call in a busy helpdesk environment, you can benefit from using a device such as the one shown in this example. This enables you to seamlessly switch between your normal landline phone and computer or computer, while using the same headset. |
HP Poly MDA100 Analog switch for headsets |
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Wireless earphones (optional): Wireless bluetooth earphones are another option to help maximise clear audio in the call. The microphone is close and directional so won't pick up too much background noise. To use wireless earphones, pair them with the device you are using for the Video Call and select them from the lis of available mic and speaker options in the Settings drawer of the Video Call Screen. Noise cancellation is recommended, where available, so you are not distracted by other noises around you and can focus on your patient or client.
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Click here for information regarding Noise Cancelling Software.
Click here for information regarding Equipment for a Group Setting.