User Guide Overview
This comprehensive guide covers all features available to Landline users. Whether you're a new controller or experienced staff, you'll find detailed information on every aspect of the application.
Communication Modes
Landline supports three distinct communication modes, each designed for specific coordination needs:
Call Mode (Default)
Standard two-way voice communication between positions.
- Both parties can speak and hear each other
- Recipient must accept the incoming call
- Can be placed on hold, transferred, or merged
- Most common mode for routine coordination
Override Mode
Two-way priority communication for urgent messages.
- Both parties can speak and hear each other
- No acceptance required - connects immediately
- Plays an alert tone to the recipient
- Recipient sees "OVERRIDE" notification
- Cannot be placed on hold or transferred
Override interrupts whatever the recipient is doing. Reserve it for time-critical coordination such as traffic conflicts or emergency situations.
Monitor Mode
Silent listening to check if a controller is on frequency before calling.
- Listen to the target position's audio
- Your audio is NOT transmitted
- Target sees "MONITOR" notification
- Target can terminate if needed
- Useful for avoiding interruptions during radio transmissions
Position Grid
The position grid is your primary interface for initiating communications.
Understanding Position Status
- Highlighted Border - Position is online (someone logged in)
- Dim/Gray - Position is offline
- Green Indicator - Currently in a call
Page Navigation
Positions are organized into pages for easier navigation:
- Use the dropdown at the top to switch between pages
- Pages are configured by Facility Engineers
- Common organization: by sector, by facility type, or by frequency
Call Management
Active Call Panel
When connected to a call, the Active Call panel shows:
- Remote Party - Who you're connected to
- Duration - How long the call has been active
- Status Indicators - Hold, mute, conference status
Available Actions
| Button | Function |
|---|---|
| Mute | Silence your microphone (you can still hear) |
| Hold | Pause the call (both audio streams paused) |
| Transfer | Send the call to another position |
| End | Terminate the call |
Pending Calls
Incoming calls appear in the Pending Calls panel:
- Accept - Answer the call (ends current call if any)
- Decline - Reject the call
- Merge - Add to current call as conference (if active call exists)
Audio Settings
Access audio settings via the gear icon in the Control Panel.
Input Device (Microphone)
- Select from available system microphones
- Test your mic level with the built-in meter
- Changes apply immediately
Output Device (Speakers)
- Select speakers or headphones for audio output
- Separate from system default if needed
Use a USB headset for best audio quality and echo cancellation. Landline's WebRTC engine includes noise suppression and auto-gain control.
Window Behavior
Always-On-Top
Landline stays visible above other windows by default, allowing you to monitor calls while using radar clients or other tools.
Compact/Expanded Mode
- Expanded - Full interface with position grid and call panels
- Compact - Minimal view showing only active call status
Toggle using the minimize button in the title bar.
Training Mode
For testing and practice, Landline supports a training mode:
- Toggle Training Mode on the login screen
- Enter any CID to bypass VATSIM verification
- Full feature access without being on VATSIM
- Ideal for facility setup and controller training
Related Topics
- Conference Calls - Multi-party communication
- Call Transfers - Handing off calls
- Troubleshooting - Common issues and solutions