Videoconferencing+and+VoIP

A videoconference system requires a video input (camera), video output (monitor or screen), audio input (microphone), audio output (speakers), and digital network (Internet). The Virginia Department of Education recommends IP-based, H.323, Polycom and Tandberg videoconferencing systems. There are basically three kinds of systems. A **dedicated system** contains all required components packaged into a single piece of equipment, usually a viewing console with a video camera, microphone, and speakers. A **desktop system** is a camera-and-software add-on to a normal PC that offers videoconferencing capabilities (TKO, 2003). A **portable set-top unit** has a self-contained codec, camera, and microphone attached to a standard television or monitor. All three systems can support point-to-point or multipoint (through a multipoint control unit) videoconferencing. Desktop systems and portable set-top units can support Web-based videoconferencing. In addition, these systems can facilitate virtual collaborations, which include file sharing and other applications. Although desktop systems and portable set-top units are popular options, it is worth noting that similar videoconferencing systems can be fixed permanently in a dedicated room. Dedicated virtual meeting rooms can guarantee reliability and electrical, connectivity, and ergonomic needs. Protocols that carry voice signals over the IP network are commonly referred to as Voice over Internet Protocols (VoIP). VoIP, IP telephony, and/or Internet telephony route voice conversations over the Internet or through any other IP-based network. VoIP traffic can be deployed on any IP network, including those lacking an Internet connection, such as a local area network. Schools should consider VoIP as an alternative to traditional phone service, when appropriate, to improve their communications. VoIP simplifies the technology infrastructure by eliminating the need for separate cabling to support a telephone system. Since VoIP is managed with software, a more scalable system can be maintained at a lower cost by eliminating expenses associated with removing and replacing complete phone systems that rely mainly on hardware. VoIP can improve the overall productivity of school operations by enabling users to attach documents to voice messages or participating in video conferences. Implementation of VoIP requires some planning. Support personnel should clearly understand their roles regarding VoIP infrastructure (e.g., switches, routers) vs. VoIP features (e.g., video conferencing, document sharing). Staff should also assess the LAN and WAN infrastructure to determine any necessary adjustments or upgrades. VoIP uses additional bandwidth; therefore, an infrastructure that can handle data may require upgrading to transmit VoIP. See section 2.5 for additional information on using IP networks with the Virginia Education Network for Virtual Conferencing.