Video conference 2

[nightcast]

Not sure where to post this question. I would like to know if anyone out there has ever setup a video conferencing or maintaining one. If so, can someone give me some idea what is required and what method will be suitable for a network with 10-20 users. I'm new to video conference technology. Thanks in advance.

John

 

[ThunderForest]

This may be just what you're looking for:

http://sourceforge.net/project/showfiles.php?group_id=176809

Getting answers before I'm asked.
Providing answers if I can.

 

[robertjo24]

Are you ready for the long answer?

Video Conferencing is a wide and varied subject.

The first question you have to ask is: Would you want to use a service provider to host your conferencing, or do you want your own private system.
If you want a service provider to do it all, start with your local carrier for your business class service. They all will have some sort of service available. That can give you many of the options that will help inform you so you can shop around.

If you want your own system on your own network, there are many options. Simply put, the system would consist of a Codec, camera, and local display. Transport between the systems can be ISDN, dedicated T1, public internet, or your private network backbone.

The two biggest players in the market that I know of are Polycomm and Tandberg. Polycomm has some very nice set top devices that have everything integrated into the unit, and it sits on top of the TV or plasma display. Tandberg has some really neat desktop models for executives. Neither sells direct, but will have regional sales personnel eager to talk to you and hook you up with local distributors/integrators.

The local distributors/integrators will likely be your best source for information on matching products and/or services for your particular application. If this is your first time dealing with video conferencing, I would probably talk with a national outfit versus a smaller local group. They may cost a little more, but they will have the depth and breadth of knowledge to give you the best information and service.

You can do just about anything in video conferencing these days, including the new trend, tele-presence. Unless you are a high end user with high dollar execs, this probably will be out of range. We have a high end room with a wall sized display, dual cameras, integrated microphone & speaker system, with integrated voice dialing system. The remote control is a single unit that does it all, with programmed buttons that turn it all on and dials the system for you. The system is connected to the outside world via our IP network, and several ISDN lines. On the other end of the spectrum, we have remote field offices that have set top units connected to an ISDN line. Both serve their function well.

If you are in, or near a major city, do a directory search for video conferencing. If that does not work, search the

http://WWW for

video conferencing integrators. Or, call Polycomm and Tandberg and they will give you a list of certified integrators in your area.