Video Conferencing : Equipment Sales | Networks – ISDN and IP | Public Room | Webcasting | Conference and Rental Services
H.323 PROTOCOLS
H.323 protocols allow video conferencing to operate over IP data networks including LANs / WANs / and the Internet.
Today's Tandberg and Polycom equipment can run both H.323 and H.320 protocols, depending on feature selections. Using their multipoint features, both H.320 and H.323 equipment can connect through the equipment.
Due to the packet configuration for data networks, it takes slightly more "overhead" to handle the real time video conferencing signal, and thus the amount of bandwidth available makes a big difference. Typical business grade video conferencing is running at 384 kbps or more over the network, plus 15% overhead.
The quality of service on the network is important for providing good picture quality. Using the services of a Managed Network Provider, or having your IT group implement appropriate QOS, can help resolve issues of latency and jitter on the network that would affect the video conferencing.
Video Conferencing Over Networks
IP Networks are quickly gaining popularity for H.323 conferencing. The primary advantage over ISDN is that there is no additional charge for long distance. This is particularly important with international video conferencing.
The challenge for IP Networks and video conferencing is to manage the latency and jitter so the quality of the picture is acceptable. For LANs and WANs, the necessary Quality of Service (QOS) can be managed by your IT Group, though it may require additional equipment and software upgrades.
While connecting over the Internet is possible, the picture and sound quality cannot be relied upon for video conferencing.
Managed Networks
Many companies are finding value in the services of Managed Network Providers. These companies provide Service Level Agreements on the network, guaranteeing QOS necessary for video conferencing. Even if you already have data networks between your various locations, it may be preferable to use an OVERLAY managed network arrangement for video conferencing, voice-over-IP, and overflow to the Internet.
Contact Us about Managed Network Provider Options
Video Conferencing Equipment for IP Networks
Both Tandberg and Polycom provide excellent equipment IP Networks.
For lowest-cost video conferencing on your computer and over the Internet, popular arrangements include Microsoft NetMeeting running on a Pentium III or higher with web camera and microphone, over broadband. However, the size and quality of the picture are limited, even with cable or ADSL connection to the ISP. Polycom also offers the low cost Via Video system ($550 each end), which is compatible with all H.323 standard equipment.