Netscape Navigator 4.x or later:

• On the Edit menu, choose Preferences, Advanced. Ensure the following options are selected.
• Enable Java.
• Enable JavaScript.
• Accept all cookies

When you join a training session for the first time, the Centra client will download. We recommend you log in with enough time to troubleshoot any potential issues.

Audio
Using audio in a Centra session requires a headset/microphone or a separate microphone and speakers. To connect a headset:

1. Locate the icons for microphone and speaker on the plugs of your headset.
2. Match the icons on the plugs to the jacks on your computer:
The microphone jack may have the word "mic," or a picture of a microphone.
The speaker jack may have the word "out," or a picture of a speaker.
3. Plug the headset/microphone or a separate microphone and speakers to the computer.
4. Make sure the volume control on your computer is turned up.
5. Run the Audio Wizard to test your audio.

Download the Participant Reference Card for an overview of the virtual classroom.

Sample Data
You will need access to the sample database in order to participate in practices during class time. If you need help getting the sample database installed or are unsure how to access it, please contact Customer Support at 1.800.468.8996. NOTE: Currently, The Researcher’s Edge does not have a sample database. For The Researcher’s Edge Part 1 and Part 2 classes, you will be using your live data.

Class Materials
Class Materials are available for download prior to class. In order to download the materials, click the second slide in the lower left hand corner of the page marked Class Handout. This should download the class materials to your machine. Save and print the materials prior to class.

How do I attend a class? 

• Access http://bbtraining.blackbaud.com/main/index.jhtml.
• Log in using the name and password provided in your confirmation email.
• Your Centra Home page (My Schedule) will display. Locate the session you want to attend.
• If the Download link appears, click it, select Automatic Download, and click Proceed.
• Click Attend. If this is the first time you attend a Centra class, a prompt to download the client appears. You may also be prompted to adjust your sound levels using the Audio Wizard.
  Note: When using Netscape, accept the Netscape plugin (if needed). The client will automatically install. Click Yes in the Security dialog box.

• Your instructor will provide you with the information you need to interact with and make the most out of the class.
• Make sure you can clearly hear the instructor and others at all times. Run the Audio Wizard (from the Tools menu) otherwise.
• If you have a headset, raise your hand to request a microphone or ask a question. If you experience a technical problem, close the session and then rejoin it.
• Use Public or Private Text Chat to communicate with the instructor if you do not have a headset.
• Use Private Text Chat to communicate with the instructor if you experience technical problems. Click Step Out to step out of the virtual classroom at any time.

I receive a “Page not found” error.

Make sure you type the correct web address (http://bbtraining.blackbaud.com).

I don’t have my login information.

If you forget your login information or did not receive it, contact distancelearning@blackbaud.com. You can also click the Forget Password link on the Centra login page to automatically receive your password.

I can access the Centra Welcome page but I cannot log in.

Make sure you are typing your login name and password (included in your confirmation email) correctly. Note: Passwords are case sensitive. Click the Forgot my password link and follow the instructions.

I can access the Centra Home page (My Schedule page) but I cannot find the session.

Click the Past or Ongoing tabs to check if the session has already occurred or is ongoing.

When I click the Attend link, the Centra client does not launch.

A “login ID already in use” message indicates you are already attending the session on another PC, using the same ID as another user, have another version of the client open, or clicked the Attend link more than once.

If you see a setup window, follow the instructions in the window to install the client. If you see this window more than once, you may be attending the session on a different server. Or, if you have cookies disabled in your browser, enable them to avoid seeing this window every time you attend a session. If none of the solutions apply, restart the PC.

I have a poor connection.

Usually, the cause of a fair or poor VoIP connection is a lack of capacity, or “bandwidth,” available for sending voice information over your network or the Internet. To improve your VoIP connection:
Close any applications you don’t need during training.
Avoid downloading files or browsing the web while in class.

Download the Connectivity troubleshooting.pdf  to help you troubleshoot any connection issues.

Will I be able to attend the session with a Windows Firewall?

If using a Windows firewall, follow these steps to configure the Firewall to allow Centra Traffic. Note: The Centra Client must already be present to perform these steps.

• Navigate to the Control Panel and click Add or Remove Programs.
• If CentraOne is present, continue with this list of instructions. Otherwise, run the Centra System Check.
• In the Control Panel screen click Windows Firewall in the Windows Security Center section.
• Click the Exceptions tab.
• Click Add a Program. A new window titled Add a Program will appear.
• Click Browse and click the My Computer button on the left side of the new window.
• Double-Click the icon for the C Drive. This will usually appear with a name like Local Disk or a name that includes the brand name of the PC, followed by (C:).
• Double-click Program Files, Centra One, bin, launcher.exe (may appear as launcher). That window will close leaving the Add a Program window visible and set to the Exceptions tab.

How do I configure ActiveX Control Settings?

• From Internet Explorer, click Tools ->Internet Options
• Click the Security tab and the Custom Level button.
• Change Automatic Prompting for ActiveX Controls to enable.
• Optional for simplicity: Change Download Signed ActiveX Controls to enable.
• Click OK, Yes, and OK.

I am having audio problems or need help setting up my audio.

Download these audio troubleshooting tips.

I need to cancel/reschedule a class.

Cancellations may be made with no penalty up to three business days prior to the start of the scheduled training. Cancellations of a scheduled online training made within three days prior to the first day of the session will be assessed 50% of the total cost of the scheduled training. Failure to cancel a scheduled training will incur the total amount of the training fee. If technical difficulties prohibit you from attending, you may reschedule for another class without penalty. You must notify us by email at distancelearning@blackbaud.com or call us at 800.468.8996, option 3 when technical difficulties arise. 

I need additional technical help or have questions about Registrations, cancellations, or billing.

• distancelearning@blackbaud.com
• 1.800.468.8996, option 3