I’m fortunate enough to be an AMSAT Ambassador, and from time to time, I get an opportunity to present to groups of hams that are interested in learning about how they can start using the dozen+ Amateur Radio Satellites. This morning was one such occasion.
I was invited to give a presentation by the Rochester VHF Group (400+ members) and to members in other clubs throughout the area. Ev, W2EV was the host and did a wonderful job.
Prior to the meeting, Ev and I tested both WebEx and Zoom, and found that the audio and video quality of Zoom was much better. Their free account wasn’t quite up to the task because we knew the meeting would run more than an hour. One of the participants had a paid “Pro” version (which costs $15 a month — can be turned on/off at will). With that we had unlimited time and were allowed up to 100 users (we had 41).
Things went very smoothly with Ev’s help as the moderator (he also monitored the “Chat” for questions while I was giving the PowerPoint presentation). After the presentation we unmuted all participants for a group Q&A session.
No doubt this can be a valuable tool for hams to continue their meetings and other activities, even while sheltering-at-home. I will be using Zoom for my next Technician Class, which starts on April 21st at 5:30 PM.
Ev, W2EV, from Rochester VHF Group moderating presentation using Zoom
