Virtual Room Videoconferencing System (VRVS)

VRVS is a web-based system for conducting meetings and conferences. Before using this tool,
you will need:

Prerequisites

A microphone and a set of speakers, or
a headphone (recommended) with a microphone attached.

Note: The Plantronics .Audio 30 stereo PC earbud headset and microphone is proving to be popular with a number of users and can be purchased from Fry's Electronics or online at:

http://www.plantronics.com/north_america/en_US/products/cat640035/cat1430032/prod440008

Installation

To download and install the VRVS software, go to the VRVS website at http://www.vrvs.org and follow the instructions.

When asked what "community" you belong to while setting up VRVS for the first time, specify the Astro Community. This is the community used for GLAST conferences.

Etiquette

Before attending a meeting be sure to read the VRVS Etiquette page.

Note: The Etiquette page refers to a "coffee room" that no longer exists. However, since we are currently using Astro, there is a room called Holodeck which is subtitled "Testing Room".

Troubleshooting:

If the software does not install correctly, return to the VRVS site and follow the instructions to remove the VRVS software. Then reload the software by selecting the option to perform a Manual download and follow the instructions on your screen. The software should install correctly.

If attending a VRVS meeting and you are alone in your RAT window:

Try rebooting your machine and reconnecting.
If that fails - try attaching to another reflector. (See Attaching a Different VRVS Reflector.)

If there is no audio - despite the fact that there are others in your RAT window - unmute for a moment; the audio may start up once the pump has been primed.