FAQs

The APRS 2021 Virtual Portal

What Online Platform are we using?

We will be using 'OnAir' which is a cloud-based secure streaming conference solution. So there is nothing to download! A link to the platform along with a individual login code and link will be sent to you to access the meeting.

Once logged in, you will see the main home page of the platform, showing the program over the 3 days. You will be able to join / watch live and pre-recorded sessions (including post questions and communicate in the live discussion forums), and interact with delegates via the networking sessions, and connect via the Connection Hub.

The platform includes access to speaker handouts, abstracts, polling, live discussion forums and an area where you can take session notes and export these to your email.

What is needed to watch the virtual meeting?

All that is needed for participants is:

A computer, laptop or tablet. (Note: the platform does not work on mobile phones).
A stable internet connection (we suggested closing any unused browsers/programs that could be draining on your internet bandwidth)
Audio & mic (computer speakers and microphone - headset if possible)
Webcam (not mandatory for participants but handy if you wish to participate in the networking sessions, meeting hub and exhibitor meetings)

COMPATIBLE BROWSERS:

Please use the latest versions of Google Chrome or Edge Chromium.

We also recommend you clear your cookies and cache prior to logging in and disable any VPN’s you may be using.To optimise the broadcast of sessions, please do not use ‘incognito’ or ‘hidden search’ browser settings.

If you have not connected to a virtual event before, you will need to check that your camera and microphone are set to 'allow' connection. Also when first logging in to the conference portal you will be prompted to enable the webcam and microphone.

DO NOT use Internet Explorer as this is not a supported browser.

SYSTEM CHECK:

The OnAir Platform runs a number of programs in the background, to enable the streaming, networking, and videos to run.

Please ensure you check that you can access these prior to the meeting. We suggest informing your IT department that the following programs are used in the OnAir Platform, as they may need to unblock access so you can view content.

PROGRAMS USED: Vimeo, YouTube, Twilio, CacheFly and Vonage

How do we login to the Portal

A few days prior to the meeting, login details will be emailed to all delegates. Make sure that the email address associated with your registration is accurate and up to date so that there is no delay in receiving our communications.

Can I watch from multiple devices at the same time?

No. Only one device can access your account at any one time.

How do I setup my profile?

Upon logging in to the virtual platform, your Profile/Account tab will appear - we encourage you to add a photo, short biography, and links to your social media accounts. You can edit your profile at any time.

Your profile tab is also where you can restrict/allow what is seen in the Connection Hub/online delegate list.

What days/times are the sessions?

The dates are Tuesday 20th April to Thursday 22nd April 2021.

The time zone will be Sydney time, Australian Eastern Standard Time (UTC +10).

Will sessions be pre-recorded or live?

The presentations will be a mix of pre-recorded and live, and interaction with the presenter will be available via Q&A,discussion forums and Connection Hub.

How do I join a session?

The interactive Program timeline allows you to navigate your way through the program, day by day. Click on a date to see all scheduled sessions for that day. A countdown timer will appear on the right-hand side to remind you when the next session will start.

Click on the 'Preview' button to preview the session information, and then 15min before the session starts the button will change to 'View' - click on this to enter the session (the button will change to 'Join' when the session is live).

How do I make sure I don't miss a particular session/talk?

In the Program page, every Session will have their own ‘favourites’ icon – simply click on this icon and you will have it stored as your favourites. To access your favourite sessions, simply click on the favourites icon located in the right hand corner below the time counter.

Will I be able to jump from session to session during the course?

Yes. But you will need to leave a session, and go back to the program page, before you can enter another session.

Will sessions be recorded and available after the course?

Yes, for registered participants only, the presentations will be made available after the meeting until 30 June 2021.

Will attendees be able to ask questions during sessions?

Yes, via the Q&A box in the session as well as communicate/discuss with other delegates in the Discussion Forum.

What is the Connection Hub?

The Connection Hub allows you to connect and communicate with other delegates. You can search for delegates, and contact them via video call, chat & message as well as 'connect' with them by clicking on the Connect button (when you connect this way, you can choose to interact with your connection by live chat or video call, schedule one-on-one meetings at a future time, send messages and take notes. Contact information for all attendees you have connected with is included when you export your contacts).

When you first enter the conference portal delegates will be asked to update their profile, and this includes 'privacy' and 'connection hub' options where you can choose what contact information you wish to share.

What if I have any issues with the portal during the meeting?

Live Support will be available over the 3 days. You can access live support by click on 'Live Support' on the right in the main banner. When you type and submit your request a member of the conference support team will respond.

Note: outside of the meeting hours, please contact conference@aacb.asn.au