This article provides guidance for resolving microphone-related issues that may occur during a proctored exam, particularly when the microphone is not detected during the equipment check.
Microphone Requirements
A functioning microphone is required to take a proctored exam. For optimal performance, the input volume should be set to at least 50%. Before starting your exam, please verify that your microphone settings are properly configured and recognized by your device.
Note: Desktops typically do not have a built-in microphone. If you are using a desktop computer, please use an external USB or wireless microphone.
Checking Microphone Settings on Windows
To confirm that your microphone is set up correctly on a Windows device, follow these steps:
- Click the Start (Windows) button and open Settings.
- Select System, then go to the Sound section.
- Under the Input section:
- Make sure the correct microphone is selected as the input device.
- Adjust the input volume slider to at least 50%.
Checking Microphone Settings on macOS
To verify and adjust your microphone settings on a Mac, follow these steps:
- Click the Apple menu in the top-left corner and select System Settings (or System Preferences on older macOS versions).
- Choose Sound.
- Click the Input tab.
- Select the microphone you want to use (e.g., Internal Microphone or an external device).
- Ensure the Input volume slider is set to an appropriate level (around 50% or higher).
- Speak into the microphone and check the input level meter to confirm your voice is being detected.
Note: If you’re using an external microphone, make sure it’s properly connected and recognized by your Mac.
Checking Microphone Permissions in Browsers
For proctored exams, your browser must have permission to access your microphone. Below are instructions for the most common browsers:
Google Chrome
- Click the three dots icon in the top right corner of your Chrome browser.
- Navigate to the Settings option.
- On the left side of the Settings menu, select Privacy and security.
- Under the Permissions section, click on Site settings.
- Look for the Microphone option and click on it.
- Confirm that the GetCertified application is allowed to use your microphone. If not, select the test site and allow microphone usage. Ensure you are using the correct microphone.
Mozilla Firefox
If you are using Mozilla Firefox, follow these instructions:
- Click the three lines icon in the top right corner of your browser window.
- Navigate to the Settings.
- On the left side of the Settings menu, select Privacy and Security.
- Scroll down to find the Microphone settings and click on the Settings button. When the pop-up window appears, you can specify which websites are allowed to access your microphone.
Note: If the microphone is enabled but still not working, try disabling and then enabling it again.
Best Practices and Tips
- If the microphone still doesn’t work after trying the above steps, try using headphones with a built-in microphone or another computer to take the test.
- You should use your personal device to take the test because work-provided devices may have security settings that restrict access to the test. Without the administrator’s permission, it is impossible to change the security settings and allow the website to access your microphone.
- These steps may vary slightly depending on your operating system and browser version.
