This document is a preliminary overview of videoconferencing. It is intended to help the client determine needs. As those needs become more defined Sound Solutions can generate a proposal for a VTC system with specified features.
Employee travel expenses, training overhead, schedule coordination – these are but a few of the reasons our clients are actively pursuing videoconferencing. The Videoconferencing System (VTC) is used for individuals or groups to conveniently facilitate face-to-face meetings at convenient times without the need for travel. Company profitability is enhanced with quick, clear communication. VTC systems pay for themselves in a relatively short time. Videoconference meetings originate from a “near-end” location to either a single “far-end” location (point-to-point) or multiple “far-end” locations (multi-point). Each system typically contains one or more video display devices, one or more cameras, one or more microphones, electronics to process incoming and outgoing signals, and interface for connecting various devices. Systems can be interfaced to existing Audio/Video systems. They are also available in self-contained rollabout carts (as seen above) and can be stored when not in use. The most basic unit is a set-top, about the size of a shoe box and placed on top of a monitor. Sound Solutions provides the most up-to-date models and technologies for optimum system performance, ease of use, and reliability within all budget ranges.
Capabilities:
In a typical system, commonly found in meeting rooms, features can include:
- Simple Graphic User Interface for fast operation
- Full-motion video at 30 frames per second for lifelike conferences
- Encryption feature which addresses meeting security
- PC port, whereby users can connect laptops directly
- Work station LAN input for information-sharing from a network
- Web or PC-based presentation interface for sharing graphics and slides during the session
- Digital audio with noise suppression and echo cancellation
- Address book for frequently dialed numbers
- Voice add-on for incoming callers to participate via audio
Video Monitor
A typical and ideal setup includes 2 high-resolution data monitors per location, which need not be identical. This allows a variety of display configurations for sending and receiving near and far-end video, data, and additional information. Video monitors can be any configuration of plasma, front or rear projectors, or direct view CRT’s. A VTC system can utilize a single data monitor with picture-in-picture (PIP) feature. Entry-level systems can center around an existing single standard definition television (SDTV) which may have other office applications. The size of the display and the viewers’ proximity are factors to consider for ease of viewing.
Audio
A typical and ideal setup includes flushmount ceiling or wall speakers. In addition to VTC, an existing or newly provided audio amplifier can also be used for multiple kinds of office A/V presentations. As an alternative, self-contained rollabout systems are equipped with built-in amps and speakers. Auxiliary speakers can be added for enhanced voice intelligibility. The most basic system utilizes the built-in television speakers. Either the VTC’s remote control or an existing remote control will operate the volume. Sound Solutions has over twenty-six years of experience in this specialized niche.
Microphones
The most basic VTC includes a multi-directional desktop microphone to pick up conversation in the room and send it along with video to the destination office. More elegant solutions include flush-mount and/or ceiling arrays. A variety of microphones is designed to fulfill specific applications. The quantity and type is determined by the size and configuration of the room and the number of participants. Sound Solutions will work to help select the appropriate microphone configuration for each VTC system.
Features are available to allow outside phone callers to participate in the meeting. In addition, interfaces can be added to convert meetings to audio-only conferences.
Network Requirements
There are multiple methods to transmit and receive VTC signals: T1, frame relay, DSL, and multiple ISDN. Image fidelity and video motion quality improve with increased bandwidth. Sound Solutions works with clients to determine the best method for connectivity based on available services, existing data network, who the far-end participants will be and their system capabilities.
before after
Lighting
Correct lighting will make a crucial difference in image quality and ultimately the effectiveness of the meeting. Mixed lighting from various sources (incandescent, florescent, sunlight, halogen) can cause color temperatures to clash. Variables such as glass walls, which allow uncontrolled external lighting, should be addressed. Sound Solutions’ scope of work can include lighting consultation.
System Options:
- Multi-point mode is available which would accommodate videoconferencing to several locations at once. Typically, multiple locations are displayed as seen in this graphic example. Depending upon the number of participants, features are available such as “voice switch” or “request-the-floor” which presents the speaker on the full screen. In conference rooms with existing video projector/screen systems, features are available to display each location as well as split the screen to accommodate data presentations.
- The higher bandwidth, the higher the performance: For example, 4 vs 3 ISDN lines and/or higher DSL capacity will allow higher image and audio resolution.
- Advanced VTC’s include XGA content, data presented on a document camera or electronic “white board”.
- Advanced systems can include multi-cameras, wide-angle cameras and camera pan, tilt, and zoom for assemblies and larger gatherings of participants.
- Enhanced audio can be achieved by the use of multiple microphones combined with sophisticated automatic mixers and echo cancellation circuits. This resolves problems such as multiple people speaking at once.
- Touchpanel control: As systems and conference rooms become more complex, Sound Solutions suggests the addition of a control system: wired and/or wireless touchpanels which integrate the operation of all appropriate existing room subsystems (lighting dimming, audio, video, VTC.). Ease of use is greatly enhanced.
- Sound Solutions Performance Protection Plan provides scheduled maintenance visits as well as complete repair/replacement coverage.
Pricing for upgrades is available upon request
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