Overview and Purpose
When attending virtual meetings it is important to make sure the proper devices are selected for audio and video so that other attendees can see or hear you. Team members have multiple options when adjusting audio settings for computer and specific program use. This guide shows basic controls.
Environment
For use with Microsoft Windows computers, the desktop or browser versions of Microsoft Teams, and Zoom.
Windows Computer/Laptop Audio Guide
- Make sure the speaker bar or headphones are plugged in and turned on, if applicable. Otherwise, the computer defaults to its own internal speaker. Keep in mind that only laptops have built-in microphones. Other computers need an external microphone or web camera with microphone.
- In the search field next to the Windows Start icon, type “sound,” then open the Sound Control Panel.
- For both the Playback and Recording tabs, make sure each correct device is configured. Then, click OK.
Note: To make a device the default, select if from the list, then click Set Default.
- Return to the Windows search bar and type "volume." Then, open the Adjust system volume Control panel.
- Click and drag the blue slider bars to set each application's sound level. Ensure none are muted. To unmute, click the speaker icon.
Advanced Troubleshooting
Admin rights are required for the following adjustments. Contact the DSS Service Desk for assistance from a technician.
Search for “device manager,” then open the Device Manager Control Panel. Expand Audio inputs and outputs. All applicable devices should appear. If not, an update for the microphone and speaker driver may be needed. Double-click the desired device to open a properties window. Driver updates are available through the Driver tab, if needed.
Microsoft Teams Audio Guide
- While in a Teams audio or video call, move your mouse pointer over the call window where a menu appears. Click the three dots (More Options menu).
- Select Show device settings, then configure each of the desired devices (audio, speaker, microphone, etc.).
Zoom Audio Guide
- While in a Zoom meeting, click the inverted arrow between the microphone and the camera, then select audio settings.
- In Audio settings, make sure the correct speaker and microphone are selected in the drop-down fields. Use the Test Speaker or Test Mic to troubleshoot.
- Check video settings by clicking on the inverted arrow to the right of the video camera icon, and ensure the webcam is selected.
For more options, select Video Settings, then set your preferences or select your camera there.
Once done, your audio and video preferences will be set.
Troubleshooting
If you have a laptop and are in a meeting, but instead of your picture or your video, your participation shows up as a black image, it is usually a case where the laptop webcam is selected in device settings, but your laptop is closed. To change to a USB camera or other device, see the above instructions.