Setting Up Your Video Conference System
A video conference system consists of a wide range of key components, which include both remote hardware and software solutions. There are many variables to consider when setting up such a system, including methods to transfer data, store data, and control playback and display and playing video and audio. The following article provides information on the key components of a Video Conferencing system and how they can be used to create a more effective communication system between individuals, groups, teams, and even entire departments or workplaces.
The most important component of a video conference system is a high speed internet connection (ISDN) and a multipoint setup with various workgroup locations. An ISDN is typically a subset of a public Ethernet network connection (Eligible IPs), which can be either dial-up or cable. Using a high speed ISDN and a multipoint setup enables a video conference system to transmit and capture data in real time, allowing everyone in the group to see the participants simultaneously. The use of a broadband internet connection for the Multipoint ensures that each participant has access to the Internet without degrading the quality of any input/output device.
Video conferencing utilizes VoIP technology, which is voice over IP technology. In this type of conferencing, the audio and video components are transmitted through the same IP network. An example of VoIP application includes Skype, which provides a service for text-based chat and video conferencing. Many users find using a web-based conferencing service, such as that provided by Microsoft Office Online, preferable because it is less costly than a service such as Skype, as well as offering additional benefits, such as multiple room-based conferences and collaborative document sharing.
An audio-video conference system consists of two components: an audio device, such as a microphone, that receives audio information and transmitting it to a secondary device, such as a monitor, speakers, or head-set; and a video input device, such as a computer monitor TV or Video Conferencing Camera that receives video information and transmitting it to the audio device. These devices may be separate units, such as a headset that links all of the participants' equipment together, or they may be integrated units that provide a single point of entry and exit for each individual participant.
The advantage of using integrated units is that they eliminate the need for separate hardware or software to connect them, which also eliminates the need for software downloads and installation. They also provide easy access between different participants by providing a common input/output port and a standardized protocol for video/audio input/output.
One of the major challenges with using a video conference system to conduct business is keeping the participants connected to the Internet. In particular, this issue can arise if there is a failure in the primary Internet connection, such as a circuit breaker tripping or a power outage. To prevent a problem like this, ensure that the primary Internet connection is always reliable. If it is not reliable, install a high-speed internet connection through your cell phone so that your business can stay connected to the Internet at all times. If you do not have a cell phone that meets these requirements, you may still be able to use an audio-video device that connects via a high-speed internet connection over a home broadband connection, provided your service provider has coverage in your area.
Another way to help make sure that the attendees are able to access the Internet at all times is to integrate a whiteboard into your system. A whiteboard can be integrated with an audio-video device, allowing the use of touch-screen controls or virtual keyboards to control the conference. This makes for easier editing, since you do not need to physically take the device to each individual participant to provide them with their information, as would happen if your were doing a live conference. However, if your use the whiteboard in conjunction with an audio-video device, you should make sure that there is adequate space available to accommodate all participants, as you will not want to have to move from one location to another during the course of the meeting.
If you want to learn more about video conferencing, check this site: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Videotelephony.
