If there is echo, static, feedback, or any other unwanted noise on the audio connection during your meeting, there are several common issues that could be causing it. Most often, audio feedback is caused by an improper placement of hardware or a misconfiguration of software settings.
Before you begin troubleshooting, find the source of the unwanted noise so the right individual can troubleshoot. Once the source is found, ask them to troubleshoot using the steps below.
My Microphone or Audio isn't working.
- Unplug and replug in your mic.
- Check the in video microphone settings: Make sure the microphone selected in the video settings is the device you are trying to use. If your Microphone is not listed, switch microphones or unplug and replug in your mic.
- Use a wired headset: Bluetooth devices can often default to the last connection that was made. For example, if the last time you used a Bluetooth headset was while you were in your car, the headset might default to a connection with your vehicle!
- Turn off all other Bluetooth devices in your area: make sure to disconnect your phone, tablet or any other device that might be occupying your connection to your headset.
- Dial in to the meeting: Each Thalamus Video meeting room has a dial in number available. Mute yourself in the meeting room, turn off your speakers and dial into the room instead. You can remain on video while taking the audio portion of the meeting from your phone.
I'm connected to Computer audio.
- Try a USB headset. Built-in microphones on your computer or webcam can pick up other noise and cause an echo. We recommend using a USB headset plugged into your computer or headphones with a mic included plugged into your mobile device.
- Unplug and replug in your mic. Try unplugging your headset or standalone microphone from the computer or device and then replugging it back in. If possible, try using a different USB port.
- Move the microphone (if using a standalone one). If you are using a standalone microphone (i.e., not the built-in one on your computer or a headset), try moving it further away from your mouth. Also be sure to move any hand-held electronic devices (such as an iPhone) away from your mic and speakers as this can cause feedback.
- Lower the volume of your built-in speakers. The built-in speakers on your computer might be playing back the sound that your built-in mic is picking up, which could cause an echo.
- Check for sources of background noise. There could be something in your environment that is causing the unwanted noise, such as a fan blowing directly into your microphone or other voices if you are in a public area. If you cannot move away from these sources of noise, then mute yourself when you aren't speaking.
- Mute your microphone when you aren't speaking. If you weren't able to resolve your feedback issues, then mute yourself when you aren't speaking to avoid having the unwanted noise disrupt the session.
I'm connected to Audio using a Telephone.
- Hang up and dial in again. An unknown issue might have occurred when you connected to the audio conference. Try dialing in again to see if the connection is better.
- Stop using speaker phone. If you are using speaker phone, try switching to regular mode or using headphones instead. The speaker phone might be causing unwanted feedback.
- Multiple connections in a single room. If there are multiple people who are each connected using their own telephone, try these tips:
- Have each person use headphones or a headset instead.
- Have individuals move into different rooms to avoid picking up other audio.
- Mute your microphone when you aren't speaking. If you weren't able to resolve your feedback issues, then mute yourself when you aren't speaking to avoid having the unwanted noise disrupt the session.
If this guide has not resolved the problem, check out our other troubleshooting guides:
Thalamus Video Troubleshooting - In Video Experience