Getting started: Headsets, webcams and speakerphones
To benefit fully from all the features of Office Communicator, you may need to use a webcam, headset, or speakerphone.
Hardware
Most standard USB webcams and headsets will work with Office Communicator. We have tested a wide range and although we do not explicitly recommend specific models, have found the following manufacturers to be compatible: Logitech, Microsoft, Plantronics, and Polycom.
It is not necessary to spend a lot of money on webcams and headsets; however, as quality of audio/video and cost are directly related, we recommend you opt for the mid-price range and look for the following features:
Headset
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Webcam
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Note: IT Services does not supply or procure headsets, webcams, or speakerphones.
Installation
Headset
- Plug the USB cable connection of the headset into an available USB hub on your PC or laptop.
- Wait for Windows to recognise the device.
- Installation is automatic. A notification in the bottom-right hand corner of your screen will indicate when the software has been successfully installed
Speakerphone
- Plug the USB cable connection of the speakerphone into an available USB hub on your PC or laptop.
- Wait for Windows to recognise the device.
- Installation is automatic. A notification in the bottom-right hand corner of your screen will indicate when the software has been successfully installed
Webcam
If your webcam comes with a software CD, install the software before connecting the camera to your computer.
- Insert the installation CD into your CD-ROM/DVD-ROM drive. Your CD should start automatically. If it does not, follow the steps below:
- Double-click the My Computer icon. Alternatively, click Start > My Computer.
- Right-click the CD-ROM/DVD-ROM drive icon, and then click Autoplay.
- Follow the on-screen setup instructions.
- You may be prompted to connect your camera to a USB port during the software installation process.
- Plug the USB cable connection of the webcam into an available USB hub on your PC or laptop.
- Wait for Windows to recognise the device.
- Installation is automatic. A notification in the bottom-right hand corner of your screen will indicate when the software has been successfully installed.
Set-up
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From the menu button in the top left-hand corner of Office Communicator, select Tools and Set Up Audio and Video...
- In the Set Up Audio and Video – Handset or Headset window, change the setting for Select the handset or headset you want to use to place and receive calls using your computer from the drop-down menu.
- Click Test and adjust the volume bar until you are satisfied with the sound levels.
- Speak into the microphone with your normal voice, adjusting the microphone levels until you are satisfied with the pickup. You may need to adjust the position of the microphone on your headset. A green bar that fills most of the area to the right of the level adjuster will indicate appropriate levels.
- Click Next.
- In the Set Up Audio and Video – Speaker/Microphone or Speakerphone window, change the setting for Select the speaker/microphone or speakerphone you want to use to Custom from the drop-down menu.
- Under Speaker select the headset or the speakerphone you have installed from the drop-down menu.
- Click Test and adjust the volume bar until you are satisfied with the sound levels.
- Under Microphone select the microphone of the headset or speakerphone you have installed from the drop-down menu, or select the integrated microphone of your webcam if you prefer this option.
- Speak into the microphone with your normal voice, adjusting the microphone levels until you are satisfied with the pickup. You may need to adjust the position of the microphone on your headset. A green bar that fills most of the area to the right of the level adjuster will indicate appropriate levels.
- Click Next to set the speaker preference for other program sounds, such as instant message alerts and incoming calls. You may wish to direct these sounds to your default speakers.
- Click Next and select your webcam from the drop-down list for video and conference calls. You can also choose to disable your webcam.
Tips on using your equipment
- Ensure the headset is comfortable, with the headband adjusted to fit and the mouthpiece in the optimum position.
- Read any documentation that comes with your speakerphone for tips on usage.
- When positioning your webcam, avoid bright light behind your head.
- Minimise background noise. If using the webcam microphone, keep other speakers, fans and mechanical noise that may cause feedback or interfere with the sound quality as far away as possible.
- Be aware of your surroundings and what others can see via your webcam.
