Video Conferencing Systems for Real Time Conferencing at Multiple Locations

Posted by arun on June 5th, 2014

Videoconferencing has become a very common and important part of every business. It refers to a conference through video, also known as video teleconference. Two way audio and video transmissions are used to allow people at different locations to hold a conference or business meeting. Communication has become so simple with all such technologies. Audio and video signals are transmitted simultaneously, so that people can communicate with each other in real time. It is a kind of a groupware, and you could also call it a “visual collaboration”. A number of Video Conferencing Systems are available that make video conferencing possible.

One must not confuse between videophone calls and video conferencing. Videophone calls are generally a video call between two individuals. Videoconferencing caters to a number of people at different locations. Individuals at multiple locations can take part in a video conference. Now, the next question is how it is possible. Well, technology has advanced to a level in which passing messages and communicating in real time is a common process. Since the 1990s, broadband telecommunication services, which are quite cheap and have high capacity have been introduced and improvised to the facilities available these days. The computers, marketed nowadays have the immense processing capacity, which use video compression techniques to compress video and transmit them. All Video Conferencing Solutions use the basic technique of compression to enable efficient transmission.

Like telephones and internet, Video Conferencing Systems bring people closer to each other. Distance is no longer an issue of communication. The following hardware is required to set up a video conference.
• Video input
This is a video camera or a webcam that captures video and inputs it to the system.
• Video output
This is a monitor, television or, even a projector, which you need to “see” the people you are holding the conference with.
• Audio input
This is a PreAmp audio outlet like microphones, CD or DVD player, or cassette player.
• Audio output
These are loudspeakers.
• Data transfer
You need a LAN or internet connection to send and receive the audio and video signals.
• Computer
This is the most important part. It is a processing unit. It is responsible for the compressing and decompressing, and also maintaining data linkage.

Video Conferencing Solutions do have a few technical issues that can hinder the natural progress of the conference.
• No proper eye contact
• Appearance consciousness because of the camera
• Signal latency

Technology cannot be as efficient as a face to face conference. But, technology can bring it really close to the experience. Getting good equipment and a good broadband connection will surely enhance the experience. With further advancements in technology, one can expect better video conferencing techniques in future.

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arun

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arun
Joined: May 14th, 2014
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