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Zoom: Getting Started

Zoom unifies cloud audio and video conferencing, simple online meetings, group messaging, and a software-defined conference room solution into one easy-to-use platform. This solution offers audio, video, and screen-sharing experience across many platforms.

Contents

 

Notes:

 

Login to Zoom

Login through Application

Step 1: Download Zoom.

Step 2: Launch the application and select Sign in.

Select the Sign in button.

Step 3: Select option: Under the options of "or sign in with," choose SSO.

Select the sign in option: SSO

Step 4: Authenticate your identity by entering your NetID username and password. 

Step 5: Follow the instructions on the browser, enter (if needed) riceuniversity.zoom.us and select Open Zoom.

Select the Open Zoom button

For more information regarding the features of the Zoom application, go to the Zoom website.

Join or Host a Meeting

Through Application:

To host a meeting: In the Meetings screen, select Copy Invitation and send it to the people you want to invite. If the participants of the meeting already have your invitation code, select Start to initiate the meeting.
Four button options: Start, Copy Invitation, Edit, and Join from a room
To join a meeting: Select Join on the Home screen.
4 Home Screen options: New meeting, Join, Schedule, and Share Screen

Login to Zoom using a web browser

Note: You need to download the Zoom application for the device you use to Login. 

    3 OIT Cloud Video Conferencing buttons: Join (connect to a meeting in progress), Host (start a meeting), Sign in (configure your account)

    Best Practices for Video Conferencing

    The suggestions below will promote successful online video conferencing experiences.

    Technical Recommendations

    • Run a system check prior to your first meeting each week to ensure you have an up-to-date browser and conference software. Update Zoom software frequently.
    • Reboot your computer regularly to ensure your computer is up-to-date and to minimize technical issues.
    • Minimize the number of programs running during a meeting, especially those that use internet connectivity or notifications. 
    • Disconnect other devices (such as printers) from the internet while you are on a video conference.
    • Use a computer, instead of a smartphone, so you have a larger screen to see your peers, instructors, and shared materials. 

    Setting Up

    • Allow yourself enough time before the start of class or meeting to connect to the live session, both by audio and video. 
    • Test your microphone and speakers/headset prior to joining a meeting.
    • If possible, use a headset or earbuds since computer speakers can cause static or an echo for other people in the conference. 
    • Position yourself so that the main source of light (window, ceiling light, lamp) is in front or above you. If you are not in shadow, other participants can see you better, which will facilitate better group interactions.
    • To avoid excessive feedback noises in online meetings, mute your microphone when you join a meeting and unmute it only when you want to speak.

    Etiquette During the Conference

    • Speak as if you are face-to-face with the participants and look at the camera to create eye contact.
    • Eliminate distractions (social media, texting) during live meetings so you can be fully present and focused with the other participants. 
    • Please dress appropriately.
    • Manage your physical surroundings before video conferencing. Notify people in your immediate surroundings that you are participating in a video conference so they can avoid disrupting you.
    • Often conferences are recorded so take steps to prevent violating the privacy of people in your area by warning them. Remove private information from the view of the camera. 

    Technical Difficulties During the Conference 

    • If your video is not working, make sure other programs that utilize the camera are not using the camera and are closed then restart your computer. 
    • If your audio has problems, turn off the camera to improve connectivity.
    • If you are using Zoom and have not updated your software recently, you may need to install the latest version. See also Zoom Meeting Privacy and Security.
    • For assistance, contact the OIT Help Desk.
    For more resources, see the following information:
     

    See Also


    Keywords:
    Zoom video conferencing online meeting video audio web conference 
    Doc ID:
    84808
    Owned by:
    NeedsOwner U. in Rice U
    Created:
    2018-08-10
    Updated:
    2023-05-03
    Sites:
    Rice University