Hybrid Club Meetings
Since late 2019/2020 GOTAhams has made increasing use of video conference tools from Zoom. Our monthly membership meetings are usually a hybrid combination of the in-person meeting at a local restaurant, combined with online Zoom participation for those that cannot make it. (and yes, we put A/V equipment in the restaurant so all are connected). We also use Zoom for board meetings or other organizational meetings. A link is sent by e-mail to the members before the meetings.
Zoom Lounge
We maintain a zoom based chat room for members to use any time of day. This is a great way to meet up for some elmering, troubleshooting, or just to socialize. Usually you will find a few members on the Zoom Lounge in the 3o minutes before the nightly net. To access the lounge you will need the meeting number and password, it will be in the weekly e-mail or members can send an e-mail to Tim N6DLC: tim@wnbnet.net.
Using Zoom
1. Particularly if doing this for the first time, do it a bit early so you have time for any software installation. Consider experimenting by joining the zoom chat room, usually having activity during the 30-40 minutes ahead of the nightly net. This allows you to test your internet connection, camera, sound, etc.
2. PLEASE make sure your call sign and first name (or full name if you lack a call sign) is shown on the the ID label for yourself. We only allow club members and invited guests into our club meetings to prevent interference and we cannot admit you to the meeting if your name is clear – and we probably won’t admit “Zog the Magnificent” even if its really YOU! You will first be in a ‘waiting room’ until the call hosts admit you to the main event. Please be patient and extra-patient if you arrive late as the hosts are probably more focused upon the meeting activity than the waiting room.
3. It costs you nothing. It does require an internet connection with decent bandwidth.
The video below from ZOOM provides a nice introduction for first time attendees. There are more advanced tutorials available from ZOOM if you want to create your own account and hold your own meetings.