Internet relay calls don't 'stream' the way a TTY call does. Your message only leaves your computer when you click 'Send'.
But that doesn't mean that internet relay calls are like emails, instant messaging or SMS. Unlike those types of communication, there will be a person waiting on a phone at the other end of your internet relay call. This means that when you are using internet relay you should try to:
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send small pieces of information at a time. Click 'Send' often. You may also use dots at the end of a sentence, eg: 'I am going to the shops ....' to show the relay officer that you haven't finished yet
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remember to type 'GA' (Go Ahead) when you are ready for the other person to say something
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make sure the person on the other end is not waiting too long for your responses.
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wait for the relay officer to type "GA" before you send your response
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close other windows when making the call if you are using instant messaging
Don't try and have more than one internet relay call at the same time. Remember that there is a person on the phone at the other end of your call waiting for a response.
If you type slowly because, for example you have a physical disability, just let the relay officer know - preferably at the beginning of the call.
If you want to speed up the typing process at your end you can store key messages and instructions for insertion into an internet relay message. One of the simplest ways to do this is to type the messages etc into a WordPad or Word document before you start the internet relay call, then copy them into the message panel at the appropriate time during the call.
Anything you want to say to the relay officer just put in brackets - eg [Please wait, I am a slow typist]. You can have this message ready to send prior to connecting the call with the NRS. Once you are connected you can simply press "Send" to transmit the message to the relay officer.
Remember that if you have not told the relay officer you need extra time and your response is taking a long while, the relay officer may ask you if you still wish to respond. If you still don't respond, the relay officer may think you have hung up and may disconnect your call.
If you have been typing but the relay officer can't read your response because of a technical problem and has disconnected the call, please contact the Helpdesk.
And remember we have a large section of frequently asked questions and answers about internet relay to help you with any issues that might be affecting your calls.
