Quick Links


Most OPAL programs are held in the Auditorium. After clicking on the link above, type in your name and press Enter. First-time OPAL users need to install a small, safe sofware plug-in.

Master Schedule
The complete schedule of upcoming OPAL public online events.

Archive
Recordings of previously aired OPAL programs.


For information on listening to previous OPAL events on your portable player, visit the OPAL Podcast blog.

image of a triangular opal stone

Help, Documentation, and Training Sessions

Getting Started Guide for OPAL tcConference version 5 Software:

Minimum Hardware and Software Requirements for OPAL:
  • Windows 98 or higher

  • Soundcard and some sort of audio output method (e.g., speakers, headphones, earbuds--to hear what others in the online room are saying)

  • Microphone (for voice-over-IP communication) (Please Note: Many laptops contain embedded microphones. For desktop computers, the inexpensive microphones available for less than $10 at discount stores and online usually work well and reliably.)

  • Internet Connection (of course): a 56K modem connection should work reasonably well.

Help and Information about OPAL and Talking Communities Software:
  • The server port number used by OPAL is 443. A webpage full of technical information about the web conferencing software used by OPAL can be found at the following URL:


  • For general information about OPAL and the software used, please contact .

  • The website of contains FAQs, guides, and tutorials to assist you with your use of their software

  • The OPAL archive contains recordings of previous OPAL orientation sessions.

General Instructions for Entering an OPAL Online Meeting Room:

  • Click on the room you wish to enter. A list of available OPAL rooms is at http://www.opal-online.org/meeting.htm. Also, in the list of upcoming OPAL events at http://www.opal-online.org/programs.htm you may click on the title of any event to enter the room in which it will be held.


  • The first time you enter an OPAL online room, a small software applet will automatically download onto your computer allowing you to enter the room. The applet enables your computer to participate in the discussion. It is safe.


  • Type your name into the Name Field, then either press the Enter key or click on the Enter button.



Using the Document Center:
  • , created by Steve Hoffman from Talking Communities in June 2007 (playback time: 18 mins.)









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