Step 1 – Computer specification
Check your desktop and/or laptop specification. How?
If it meets or exceeds the configuration below you will be able to encode and send standard definition (VGA) video and receive and decode high definition (HD) video.
- Core 2 Duo 2.0GHz processor
- 2GB RAM
- 40MB free space on the hard drive
If you are unsure whether your computer’s specification meets the requirements please send the details on our contact form and we will advise you.
You will also need to be running one of these operating systems:
- Windows: XP, Vista or 7
- Apple OS X 10.5 Leopard or above
And use one of these browsers:
- Internet Explorer 7 or above
- Firefox 2.0 or above
- Safari
- Google Chrome
Step 2 – Internet Speed
For best results you will need an internet connection speed of at least 700Kbps upload and 1.5Mbps download. You can use a fixed, WiFi or 3G connection provided it meets the speed requirements. VuCall will work with lower speeds but you may be able to see fewer meeting participants on screen simultaneously and there may be some loss of picture quality. However VuCall uses a technology that is more resilient than conventional systems to variations in internet quality. As a general rule the faster your connection speed the better your video experience will be.
To run a bandwidth speed test we recommend using the Visualware web site. Select the UK:London server for your test.
Step 3 – Video and Audio Peripherals
Your video and audio experience will be greatly enhanced by making sure you have a good quality webcam, microphone, and speaker or headset. Unsuitable peripheral equipment is the most common cause of problems in video meetings.
Take a look at our range of webcams and audio products for examples of equipment that will provide the best results. An HD webcam with an echo cancelling speakerphone is the best combination for audio/video quality.
If your laptop is a recent design and has a built-in webcam it may give you satisfactory results at VGA resolution (640x360 pixels). You should not attempt to use the speakers and microphone built into your computer as they are unsuitable for quality video conferencing.
Go
Now all you need to do is contact us for a call back. As soon as we have set up your account you can be in a live video meeting in minutes.
