Using Zoom on a laptop
If you are looking for tips on how to use Zoom meetings on a computer or how to set them up, follow this article. As the name suggests, these tips were prepared for laptop users who are without external accessories such as a monitor, mouse, keyboard, and keyboard.
Prerequisites for using or setting up Zoom on a laptop
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It is important to ensure that your laptop is compatible with Zoom before using it (Windows, Linux, or macOS).
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Make sure that the latest version of the Chrome browser is installed on your computer if you are using the Zoom PWA client.
How to set up Zoom on a laptop
If you are using a laptop running Windows, Linux, or macOS, you can download and install the Zoom desktop client by following the instructions in this support article.
On Google Play, you can download the Zoom for Chrome PWA client if you are using Zoom on a Chromebook (laptop running ChromeOS).
How to use an integrated webcam
Almost all laptops come equipped with a webcam, making it possible to use Zoom without the need for an external webcam.
The following steps will guide you through testing your integrated webcam and switching to it if it is necessary.
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Open the Zoom client on your desktop and sign in.
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You will find your profile picture in the upper-right corner of the screen. It is possible to enter your initials in place of your profile picture if you do not have one.
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Choose Settings from the drop-down menu.
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Make sure that the video preview is working by selecting the Video tab and verifying that it is enabled.
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If you do not see your video, you can select Integrated Camera from the Camera drop-down menu, or you can choose a similar option such as Built-In or Internal from the Camera drop-down menu.
The integrated camera can also be tested by attending a test meeting where you will be able to see how it works.
How to use integrated audio devices
You can use Zoom without needing an external device (such as speakers and microphones) on most laptops because most laptops come with built-in audio devices.
If you want to test audio in Zoom, please refer to our support article. It is important that you select one of these devices during the testing process if you are unable to successfully test your speakers or microphone:
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MacOS: Using the drop-down menu, you can select the option that is associated with your laptop model, such as MacPro Speakers or MacPro Microphone, for example.
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Windows: In the audio driver option, look for the name of the audio driver. There is a good chance that it will be Realtek in most cases.
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Linux: Choose either the Internal or Built-in option from the drop-down menu.
How to use external earphones or headset
Zoom can be used with either of the following audio setups on a laptop when using Zoom:
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USB or Bluetooth headset: You can switch the audio settings of your USB headset to both the speakers and the microphone function if you are using one that has both functions. The audio settings of your device should contain options containing the product name that you want to use, for example, Logitech or Sennheiser, when you select your device in audio settings.
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Earphones with mic connected to a supported 3.5mm audio jack: The earphones with the microphone can be used as both a speaker and a microphone if they plug into the 3.5mm audio jack of your laptop, which allows you to connect the earphones to the laptop. Choose the option in the audio settings that states the name of your audio driver when selecting your device in the audio settings. This will most likely be a Realtek driver in most cases.
Note: Look for a headset/mic icon next to the 3.5mm audio jack if you are unsure whether your phone supports the 3.5mm audio jack. Almost all modern laptops have this feature built in.
In order to confirm that your device is working properly, follow the instructions in the Zoom support article to test audio. Consider using an integrated device if your mic or speakers aren’t working and/or if your microphone isn’t working.
How to suppress background noise
When using a laptop microphone or earphones that have an integrated microphone, you may notice that the microphone is sensitive to background noise like keyboard typing or dog barking in case you are using it with a laptop microphone. As part of the noise suppression setting, you will be able to select which type of noise is suppressed so that distracting noises will not be picked up by the microphones of participants and the audio quality will be improved.
How to use keyboard shortcuts
Consider using keyboard shortcuts during Zoom meetings if you don’t have an external mouse connected to your laptop while you’re performing common tasks during your meeting. It is also possible to edit chat messages using shortcuts.
How to use video quality enhancements
Video quality can be a problem with some integrated webcams. It is recommended to enable HD, adjust video for low light, and to touch up your appearance in order to improve the quality of the meeting video and picture.