Zoom Equipment Checklist

Preparation is critical for capturing the best possible audio quality, free from technical glitches and distractions. Zoom fans claim that it stutters less than Skype and other alternatives, but it doesn’t matter how well the Zoom app works if your Internet connection is bad or your microphone is configured incorrectly. Here is our essential equipment checklist for using Zoom (see also https://boisestateecampus.atlassian.net/wiki/spaces/JFS/pages/edit-v2/977862705):

✅ Microphone

Here is a great time to use your smartphone's earbuds with a built-in mic or if you prefer a dedicated mic.

✅ Computer or Phone

Every day we see people recording on laptops that are outdated and maxed out on memory or disk space. Running on the latest equipment is ideal, but we know how expensive new MacBooks are. It’s critical that you always shut down everything except for Zoom when you are recording — especially Google Chrome; all those browser tabs you are hoarding (no judgment here) are taking up tons of memory that Zoom could use for recording your call.

✅ Headphones

Using headphones is a must for remote recording. Using a pair of earbuds is typically the best option as it is the least noticeable option and typically you already have a pair. Headphones will enhance the conversation, and allow you to better hear what’s being said without also recording the other person(s). This goes for any participants on the call as well. You’ll learn more about this.

✅ Camera

Zoom’s HD video support really improves the quality of a remote recording and your laptop’s built-in camera is OK, but we recommend the Logitech C920s Webcam running the Logitech Camera Settings app for fine-tuning your camera settings to look your best. If your guest is using a phone or tablet, ask them to set it up horizontally.

✅ Internet Connection

Zoom lists the minimum bandwidth requirement as 3 Mbps (upload & download) for HD group video conferencing. You can verify that your Internet connection is fast enough by running a Speed Test. If your speed test does not meet or exceed the speeds you are paying for from your Internet service provider, definitely contact their support and ask for a tech to come out and troubleshoot your network. We highly recommend you and your guest both use a wired Internet connection if possible to eliminate any problems with wireless network connections.

With your equipment in order and your space properly set up, it’s time to get started with Zoom and adjust some settings.

Content for this article comes from https://resonaterecordings.com/podcast-production/zoom/
(updated 03.26.21)