Zoom Video Conferencing

We are using Zoom.us as our platform for hosting multi-way video meetings with members and our committee.

Benefits of Zoom for our purposes are:-

• Free for Participants (and Chris has a host account that removes all time limits)
• No need for participants to register or enter any email or personal details
• Easy to set up and join – (just need meeting and pass codes from organiser via email or phone)
• We have members who can give sufficient technical support to get you up and running on virtually all platforms from smart phones to Windows and Mac (and linux?) desktops. Laptops are ideal as most modern ones have in-built cameras and microphones.
• Option to share view of desktop plus a further option to permit remote control of keyboard & mouse (but only ever give remote control to someone you have met in person and trust)
• It just works! For all platforms (Windows, Mac, smartphones, iPad)
• Superfast broadband not essential
• Safe – you are always in control – no adverts, spam or nagging

You require some form of webcam and microphone. Most modern laptops have an integrated camera and microphone. (Camera is usually a small diameter hole above the screen). Desktop PCs typically normally use an external camera/microphone plugged into a USB port. If you don’t have a camera/microphone, you can simply set up a smartphone/iPad/Tablet in addition to your PC to give you a microphone and camera link. Also worthwhile having a normal phone nearby in case you need to contact the meeting host (normally Chris) while getting the initial connection.

We recommend everyone downloads and installs the free Zoom cloud meeting app on their device(s) before starting the meeting so you can test it along with your audio and video connection. Ring Chris to resolve any difficulties or to have a trial go.

If any members would like to suggest activities we can set up using Zoom etc., please contact Chris.

Zoom has simplified introduction/tutorials on their web page but even better can be found via Pinner Camera Club who have a page dedicated to Zoom with specific instructions and screen shots for Windows, Apple and iPads. We are very grateful to them for this and their help. They are already running meetings and competitions on-line.

In case anyone is concerned about newspaper reports of security issues with Zoom, please be assured that these do not relate to the way we will be using it.