There will be no net tonight, but join us for our virtual meeting. We’re going to use a different provider than we have in previous meetings. It’s called Jitsi, and Randy W5WXY has been using it the past two years. He describes it as the most user friendly he has ever encountered. Here’s the scoop from Randy.
It’s FREE, with NO time limit, NO “permission” or password requirement, and there is NO need to download anything or add an extension to Chrome (although, it always asks if you want to). Furthermore, there is NO special account requirement. I think it works with all the usual browsers and prefers Chrome.
You can use your computer, iPad, tablet, cell phone, or even a landline. For example, you can use a computer which doesn’t have a camera or microphone but allows you to see the video, and use your landline for the audio (special phone numbers and ID number are provided below).
When using your computer, etc. browser, there are only 4 things to do:
1. click on (or copy and paste) this link: https://meet.jit.si/WA5WRLake
2. IMPORTANT: when prompted, click “ALLOW” to use your microphone and camera.
3. Type in your name & call sign.
4. click on the “X” in the upper right corner of the box to remove it from asking you to install an extension (if you are using Chrome).
When using your phone (or cell phone to avoid using data) to join the meeting and be able to listen and talk (without video): Dial (512) 647-1431 You also have to enter the following ID (including the pound sign): 4210548946#
Note:
1. if you want to see additional dial-in numbers: https://meet.jit.si/static/dialInInfo.html?room=WA5WRLake
2. if you want to watch on your computer without hearing the audio (to avoid feedback if using your landline to listen) here’s one more link (I chose not to bold, because it may be a very uncommon occurrence): https://meet.jit.si/WA5WRLake#config.startSilent=true
BUT WAIT, THERE’S MORE…. You are free to use this link and system anytime and from anywhere, and it’s easy to send the link to the person you want to invite, so keep it in your “favorites” or “bookmarks”.