What is a Virtual Orchard Consultation?
Zoom. I use Zoom for virtual consultations. The easiest way to prepare for a virtual consultation is to download and install the Zoom App. The App can be downloaded from the Google Play Store or Zoom
You do not need a Zoom account or a Zoom app. You can join a Zoom meeting from a web browser, without downloading the Zoom App. To do this, locate the meeting invite link in your email invitation. Click the join link to join the meeting. If a pop-up window prompts you to open or install the Zoom desktop client, click Cancel. All you need to do is connect to the email invitation that I sent you.
A smartphone or tablet. To connect to the Zoom video call. Laptops for out door Zoom consultations. You also need to know how to change from the front facing camera (the one pointing at you) to the rear facing camera on the device you will be using. I recommend practicing so you know where to click to change cameras.
The microphone and speaker of most phones and tablets is usually adequate for this type of virtual consultation. If required, you can add a Bluetooth microphone or speaker.
A strong wireless connection in your garden or orchard. It is best to turn off your connection to Wifi and use Data for the consultation. Most Wifi connections tend to become flakey as you walk outside.
Two people, or, one person and a tripod. One person to hold the phone and the other to point to specific parts of the tree under discussion. (see image)
A pointer with a brightly colored tip. This ensures that you and I are talking about the same part of your tree or branch.
With these preparations we will have a successful consultation
