What is Zoom?
Zoom meetings are audio and video meetings over the Internet. You can join from a computer or mobile device such as a tablet, pad or smart phone.
Do I have to use the video feature?
You have the option to use your computer or device camera to broadcast yourself, or can just watch others and participate using your device’s audio.
How do I join a Zoom meeting on a computer or device?
The host provides a link to click on from your computer or device. The first time you do this, you will be prompted to download and install the Zoom software/app. It will guide you through creating a free account. Subsequently, the Zoom software/app will open automatically.
What if I don’t want to download software?
You can still join from the link, although with limited capability.
Do I need a password?
If the meeting requires a password, the host will have sent it to you and you may be prompted to enter it.
How does my name get displayed?
The name you used when you set up your account will automatically be displayed.
Where do I find the different Zoom controls?
The exact location of the controls will be located in different places on different devices. They may be on the top, bottom or sides of the screen. You may need to tap the screen for the controls to appear. Also, some controls are accessed by tapping on three dots or a more button.
How do I change the name displayed for a meeting?
Display the participant list by clicking “Manage Participants” in the menu on the bottom. Click on the “More” button next to your name and click on “Rename.”
If I don’t use video, what will be displayed?
If you choose not to use a computer or device camera, your name will be displayed instead. You can substitute an image such as a selfie by adding it to your profile.
How do I add a picture for displaying?
Click on your name in the participant list, and then on the “More” button next to your name. You will then have an option to upload a picture from your computer or device.
I see some people have something called a “virtual background.” How do I make one for myself?
Click in the menu on the arrow next to the video camera, and go to “Choose Virtual Background.” You will see options for an image or even a video. Note: This works best if you are sitting in front of a solid color background. If you cannot find “Choose Virtual Background” it’s because your device does not support that function.
How do I mute / unmute myself?
The mute / unmute button can be found in the upper right corner of your “square” or in the menu. It can also be operated by a keyboard command, depending on your hardware. The host also has an option to mute and unmute individual or all participants. It’s a good idea to get familiar with this feature and mute yourself when you have background noise.
How do I ask a question?
With a smaller group, talking may be possible. But in this large group setting, we are asking that everyone use the chat feature to ask questions.
How do I use the chat feature?
You can use the chat feature and type a message to individuals or the whole group. To display the chat feature, click “Chat” in the menu, or click on the three dots (…) in an individual’s “square” to chat privately.
How do I see who else is participating?
The screen has options for how to view individuals using cameras. You can play around with the options by clicking “View Full Screen” or “Exit Full Screen” and clicking on Gallery view, and more. Options vary based on your device.
Where can I get more information?
The complete Zoom documentation is here. Or you can watch instructional videos on YouTube here.
Tips
These are various ways that may improve your experience:
- Put yourself on mute whenever you aren’t talking. While the host has the ability to mute individuals, you may also want to get good at using the mute button for yourself, to avoid distracting the other participants with background noise. This is especially important if you have two devices signed in at once.
- Avoid other activities that steal bandwidth. Close out of any programs that are running in the background.
- Avoid activities on other devices that share your Internet connection, such as streaming video on a TV or downloading/uploading on another device.
- If you have an older webcam or microphone, consider upgrading your hardware.
