Microphones & Cameras

While inbuilt laptop microphones and cameras should be ok for interviews such as CAD or CAM, where the team can be seated directly in front of the device, we recommend teams use an external USB microphone (or similar) for sessions such as the verbal presentation.

The use of such a device will greatly boost your audio quality, which should allow the judges to hear, and therefore mark your team far more effectively.

Many USB microphones feature manual ‘Gain’ control which can be adjusted for interviews such as Verbal Presentation, where you will be positioned further away from the microphone than in a traditional call.

Gain control on Blue Yeti USB Microphone

The use of an external camera or upgraded webcam is not required, but rather to be based off of your laptop / computers camera.

If the inbuilt webcam can maintain a minimum resolution of 720p, @30fps, and is not too blurry when practicing a verbal presentation, then the team may use it.

However, if it is found to be too blurry, the team should source an external camera, or a better webcam.

The use of an external camera may also provide greater manoeuvrability when showcasing your trade display, allowing you to zoom in or pan around the display.

Microsoft LifeCam Studio (Example camera - specific model not required)

It is essential that all teams test their microphone and camera systems or ‘setup’ prior to the event. This will allow for any issues to be identified and solved before entering a judging session. The National Final runs on a tight schedule and we cannot wait for, or allow extra time in judging sessions to resolve major technical issues relating to the teams choice of technology.

If you are unsure if you should use your camera and or microphone due to audio and visual quality concerns, or simply wish to double check your system, contact REA ASAP to schedule a test meeting.