digital TRAFFIC - Solutions - Frequently Asked Questions

What is videoconferencing?
Videoconferencing is a technology that allows individuals and groups of people to meet and work together without having to be in the same room. A video link with a simultaneous audiolink allows people to see as well as hear one another, wherever they are in the world.

What is data conferencing?
Data conferencing gives people the ability to exchange, transfer and work collaboratively on a range of documents and other applications, either alongside videoconferencing or an audio link or simply by itself. The majority of videoconferencing products offer some form of data conferencing at the same time.

What is multipoint conferencing?
Multipoint conferencing, also called bridging, refers to linking multiple videoconferencing systems together in one meeting. Many videoconferencing systems have the ability to link a few sites together simultaneously in one meeting.

What transport mechanism can I use for videoconferencing?
ISDN is the most common form for videoconferencing used throughout the world. It is also possible to use:

A network with available bandwidth - but there are considerations and limitations to this.
ADSL - possible in some circumstances but this is quite complex and usually not cost effective.
Cable modem - possible in some circumstances but this is quite complex and usually not cost effective.
Satellite
Telephone Line (PSTN)

How much ISDN do I need?
Typically the minimum requirement is a single Basic Rate ISDN line of 128kbps (2x 64kbps). Quality improves dramatically with addition of a second line (total 256kbps) and reaches a balance of quality against cost effectiveness with the addition of a third line (total 384kbps). Quality further improves with the addition of more lines, however it is more gradual. At 1.5mbps and above, quality is exceptional, however, this tends to be used in mostly in telemedicine or television transmission applications where quality is paramount.

What factors affect quality?

The bandwidth available (see How much ISDN do I need?).
The ability of the conferencing system to process the video and audio data. Note that videoconferencing systems will usually vary in price and performance depending on the amount of bandwidth they are capable of using.
The quality of the video camera.
The quality of the viewing device.
The quality of the audio system.
The environment or room the system is used in.

In all cases, the quality of the videoconference or meeting depends on the factors above at both ends of the meeting.

Do systems work both on ISDN and networks?
Some systems are available that work on both ISDN and a network. Some others will only work on one or the other.

Can I make a connection from a network environment to an ISDN environment and vice-versa?
It is possible and is dependant on the network infrastructure and software, it may involve the purchase and implementation of additional equipment. In some cases this a simple procedure, in others it is quite complex and in all cases the consideration of the network is paramount.

For further help and information on videoconferencing products and services send your question to info@digital-traffic.co.uk and we will be pleased to answer it.