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Videoconferencing is the transmission of images (video) and speech (audio) back and forth between two or more physically separate locations. Equipment required to support a videoconference include cameras, microphones, compression software, and a transmission backbone. The transmission backbone, traditionally, has been ISDN telephone lines. Equipment today is being manufactured to transmit signals over ISDN and by using Internet protocols. Issues related to the transmission backbone for video over various mediums are complex and may effect the cost and quality of the experience for all participants. ISDN Interoperability of equipment using ISDN telephone lines has been possible through the adoption of a standard (H.320) by the International Telecommunications Union (ITU.) For individuals without their own equipment there are public rooms worldwide that rent space. Directories of these rooms may be found on the Internet. |
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Internet Protocols
Most equipment being manufactured for videoconferencing is being built to operate using Internet protocols. The ITU standard for IP is H.323. Organizations with Intranets like local area networks and wide area networks have found this standard to be effective because the video quality is very good and the transmission costs are virtually zero. Videoconferencing over the public Internet is not being embraced by users yet. The public Internet is very busy and getting busier every day. Video transmissions require substantial bandwidth and the public Internet will not reliably provide this for consistent and uninterrupted quality of video and audio.
Applications
People from all walks of life have found videoconferencing to add value to their communication mix. The quality of video transmissions continues to improve and users have integrated multiple media sources into the video meetings. Common video sources include a live video camera, document camera, computer presentation software, electronic white boards and a VCR.
The users are
as diverse as the applications:
Private Industry: Private industry uses videoconferencing for sales presentations,
strategic planning meeting with remote offices, distributor training,
distributor selection, relationship building meetings with clients, design
review meetings, and board of director meetings.
Attorneys: Attorneys use videoconferencing for remote depositions, pre-trial and settlement conferences, and expert witness evaluation and testimony.
Higher Education:Distance learning opportunities are the predominant applications for videoconferencing within higher education. Faculty may import content experts, authors, or private industry professionals for a unique perspective on academic lessons. Other applications include Admission department recruiting, professional networking with Alumni, and student interviews through the Career Services department.
Primary and Secondary Education: Educators at this level are using videoconferencing for students interested in advanced placement at higher education institutions, to assemble a number of students necessary to fill a class elective, and to take virtual field trips. Over 400 Rhode Island students have participated in international cultural awareness programs through our Global Awareness Program.
Other sectors that have found this medium effective include the state and federal governments and health care professionals.
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