It is recommended to perform a diagnostic check on your computer prior to using Wimba for the first time. This diagnostic check will verify that your computer has the correct version of Java, and that the Wimba tools work. To do this diagnostic check, go to the following URL:

Live Classroom Browser Checker: Live Classroom Browser Check

If when performing the system check you are asked to disable pop-up blockers you need to first verify which pop-up blocker is installed on your machine.  For more information on pop-up blockers and how to remove specific ones go to the following link: Pop-up Blockers

If your computer passes the Live Classroom Browser Checker then you are ready to use the Wimba Live Classroom.

Operating System Requirements

 Microsoft Windows 2000, XP and Vista are all supported Operating Systems. For users using a Macintosh, Mac OS X is required.

Connection Requirements

While Wimba Live Classroom can work with a dialup connection, it is strongly recommended you use a Broadband connection such as DSL, Cable(Road Runner) etc.  If your connection is too slow you may experience lag issues when hearing your classmates and your classmates may hear your voice cut in and out.

Browser Requirements

We recommend you use Internet Explorer 6.0 when using Wimba. When running a Mac, Wimba recommends using Safari 1.2 - 2.0 or Firefox 1.0 - 1.5.0.0

The Wimba system does require the use of a microphone/headset. Some relatively inexpensive (under $20) headsets are available at retail stores like Best Buy, Circuit City, Wal-Mart, etc. 
Your computer usually has color coded plugs for connecting headsets. Connect pink with pink and green with green. The plugs are usually located in the back of the computer and most modern computers have front access as well. They will look something like this:



Your headset should also be color coded and look similar to the ones shown below:



If your headset does not have color coded plugs you can usually identify which plug is for what by the logo on the end of the plug. The microphone can be identified by the following logo and plugs into the pink jack behind your computer. The headphones can be identified with the following logo and plug into the green jack behind your computer.

After you have made sure your headset is plugged in correctly you are ready to run a test on your headphones and microphone. Click Start->Control Panel->Sounds and Audio Devices and click the "Voice" Tab. You will see the following window:

One of the new features of Wimba Live Classroom is streaming Video, however it is important to note that having a camera installed is not a requirement for using the Live Classroom( unless your professor tells you it's needed for the course). Anyone capable of passing all the tests in the Wizard will be able to view video broadcasts from those who have cameras installed. However, if you would like to broadcast video from your location, you will need to have a camera installed.

Java Requirements

The Wimba audio components requires the Java Runtime Environment(JRE) to operate. If you are unsure if you have Java Runtime Environment installed on your computer you can go here to verify your installation and version. You can download and install the latest working JRE version here if you don't already have it. When prompted to "Run" or "Save As" click run and follow the install instructions.

If you are having technical issues that are related to Java you may uninstall all versions of Java from your machine by going to Start->Control Panel->Add or Remove Programs and selecting each version of the Java Runtime Environment and removing them.

Wimba Support

For additional help you may contact Horizon Wimba Technical Support by phone (toll-free in the US and Canada).

You can also go to their technical support website. They have a very helpful Frequently Asked Question(FAQ) page where you can find answers to some of the more common Wimba problems. You also have the option to text chat with a Wimba Support Technician or Submit your own Help Ticket.

Wimba Contact Info:

• http://www.horizonwimba.com/technicalsupport/
• 866.350.4978