Video conferencing is quickly becoming such a valuable tool for small and big businesses. It allows people who are from different locations to communicate in real-time using video and audio. It is also a way for virtual teams to interact in a more personal way as opposed to just doing conference calls. Video conferencing allows you to put a face into a voice which is important in connecting teams and business partners together. One main advantage of video conferencing is that you can save a lot of money by skipping air fare or gasoline and hotel accommodation to bring people together in one conference room.
There are two types of video conferencing, the point-to-point video conferencing and the multi-point video conferencing. Point-to-point is a simple method by which two computers can be connected via a single IP address. This is used mostly for personal video phone calls. Utilizing a web cam and microphone that are connected to each computer allows each caller to see and talk to each other.
Multi-point video conferencing employs several set-up variations depending on how big or small the groups are; also taking into consideration and the amount of budget allowed to spend. The first method uses a multi-point bridge also known as MCU (Multi-Connector Unit). The MCU is set up either as a standalone computer or server to where three or more users can connect. The second method is employed by using a room system wherein multiple cameras and microphones are used inside a bigger conference room for larger groups. The third utilizes a roll-about system which uses a cart with microphone, camera and codec all in one place. This is ideal for smaller groups and can be moved from room to room since it is portable.
Video input can either be a web cam or video camera. You would need at least one for each location. A television or computer can be used as video outputs. Microphones re used as audio input. Each location should have at least one microphone. In bigger conferences, there may be multiple microphones or one microphone that is shared and passed around. Audio outputs are speakers either built-into or hooked up to a computer or television.
Video conferencing is transmitted either via the internet connection through an ISP (Internet Service Provider) or via broadband connection. A WiFi connection can also be used as well as radio or satellite frequencies. The use of data compression software is also necessary in order to not have any sluggish connection caused by the large amount of space that is being used by the video and audio data over the network. For examples of compression software please check on "Resources" on this page.
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