# Pilot’s Guide to Discord # What is Discord? # What is Discord? Discord is a free communication platform designed for communities to connect via text, voice, and video. Think of it as a virtual hub where Canada Air Virtual pilots can: - **Chat** in real-time. - **Share screenshots** of flights. - **Ask and answer aviation and simulator questions.** - **Join weekly group flights** and hang out in voice channels. # Why Use Discord? Discord is central to CAV's operations because it offers: - **Instant communication** with fellow pilots. - **Community bonding** through chats and events. - **Powerful tools and bots** for easier access to VA functions. # Discord Basics # Setting Up Discord 1. **Download Discord:** - On your PC or Mac: [discord.com](https://discord.com/) - On your phone or tablet: Search for "Discord" in your app store. 2. **Create an Account:** Sign up with an email address, create a username, and set a password. 3. **Join Canada Air Virtual’s Server:** Use the invite link [https://discord.gg/CSujGGgyv3](https://discord.gg/CSujGGgyv3) # Navigating Discord 1. **Channels:** 1. **Text Channels:** For typing messages (e.g., #general or #screenshots). 2. **Voice Channels:** For real-time audio communication (e.g., during group flights). 2. **Server Menu:** On the left-hand side, you'll see icons for all servers you're part of. Click on Canada Air Virtual’s icon to access our server. [![image.png](https://kb.canadaairvirtual.ca/uploads/images/gallery/2024-12/scaled-1680-/image.png)](https://kb.canadaairvirtual.ca/uploads/images/gallery/2024-12/image.png) 3. **User Settings:** 1. Access via the gear icon in the bottom-left. [![image.png](https://kb.canadaairvirtual.ca/uploads/images/gallery/2024-12/scaled-1680-/Su8image.png)](https://kb.canadaairvirtual.ca/uploads/images/gallery/2024-12/Su8image.png) 2. Adjust notifications, update your profile picture, or set your status. # Sending Messages 1. **Text Chats:** Click on a text channel and type your message. Press Enter to send. 2. **Mentions:** Tag someone with `@username` to get their attention. 3. **Reactions:** Click the emoji icon on a message to react. # Using Voice Channels 1. Click a **Voice Channel** to join. 2. Use the controls at the bottom to mute/unmute or adjust your audio settings. 3. When you're done, click **Disconnect** (the phone icon with an 'x') to leave. # How Canada Air Virtual Uses Discord # Your Canada Air Identity To maintain consistency, your Discord nickname should be: `[Your Callsign] - [First Name] [Last Initial]` Example: `CAN3023 - Jan P` To change your nickname: 1. Right-click your name in the member list or server menu. 2. Select **Edit Server Profile.** 3. Update your **Nickname** field and save. You can also use the `/pilot_name` command. # Channels Overview We have many channels accessible to members. Be sure to follow the on-boarding instructions in the #read-me-first channel to unlock them all! - **\#read-me-first:** Start here for rules and server info. - **Canada Air** category - **\#announcements:** Keep an eye out for important messages here. - **\#general:** Hang out and chat about anything aviation or non-aviation. - **\#hardware**: Discuss your home cockpit and PC questions. - **\#events**: Chat about upcoming events. - **\#tours**: Discuss our available tours or suggest new ones. - **Media** category - **\#screenshots:** Show off your latest flights! This also houses sub-threads for our monthly screenshot contests. - **Helpdesk** category - **\#helpdesk:** Ask and answer simulator and aviation questions. - **\#support-tickets:** Use this to create a support ticket for a specific query or issue. These are just a few of the channels we have available. # Weekly Group Flights - Join us in voice channels like **IFRidays** or **Cessna Sundays** during scheduled events. - You'll be able to chat while flying and enjoy a collaborative experience. # Helpful Bots and Features 1. **Website Integration:** Use bots to access quick website functions directly from Discord. 2. **Translator Bot:** Communicate with fellow pilots in different languages seamlessly. 3. **Commands:** Use specific commands to check schedules, stats, or events. Examples: - `/pilot_stats` - View your flight stats. - `/help` - Learn about bot commands. # Tips for Using Discord Effectively # Staying Engaged - Check Discord regularly for updates and discussions. - Participate in weekly group flights and community events. # Keeping Things Respectful - Follow all server rules outlined in the **\#read-me-first** channel. - Be mindful of others in voice channels. # Notifications Customize notifications for specific channels to avoid overload: 1. Right-click on a channel. 2. Select **Notification Settings** and adjust as needed. # Troubleshooting and Additional Resources # Common Issues - **Can’t hear in voice channels?** Check your mic and audio settings in User Settings. - **Missing channels?** Ensure you’ve completed any server onboarding steps. # Help Resources - Visit the **\#helpdesk** channel for community support. - Use Discord’s Help Center for detailed guides.