The History of Video Conferencing
The term Video Conferencing was associated with words such as expensive, complicated and limited, only a few short years ago. This was largely the case. The leading providers of video conferencing equipment were only a few manufacturers. The hardware-based products manufacturers provide include a codec, an HD pan tilt zoom camera, and basic speaker or conference phone. Price points of even the most basic systems were close to the purchase price of a new Sedan. In other words, not affordable for the average consumer or small business. In addition, these systems were very limited in their functionality. Therefore, allowing only a single point of contact with another site utilizing a similar or identical video conferencing device. These systems are very complicated to use to connect with others. Furthermore, they are extremely time-consuming and expensive to integrate.
We have come a long way since those days.
Over a decade ago Skype was introduced. The ushers in for software-based video conferencing as we know it today. I think it’s safe to assume that we all know what Skype is. In some capacity, we have used the platform to communicate with our friends and loved ones. At first, a software platform that could allow you to have a video call with another user. This was over a standard internet connection which was limited to just Desktop PCs and Laptops. Then came a small, touch screen, handheld device called; you guessed it, a Smartphone. Now millions of adopting users had the power of a small PC in the palm of their hand. Now with the front-facing camera, microphone, and speakerphone. All the pieces required for a video calling device now fits in your pocket.
Video Conferencing Today
Jump ahead to today. There are literally hundreds and hundreds of various conferencing applications available. Either apps or software. For example, Skype, Hangouts, Duo, Facetime are some of the more common platforms. These platforms provide a very basic point to point connection. Meanwhile, between devices and users, they are free to use. Licensing fees are present on platforms like Zoom, Webex, BlueJeans, GoToMeeting and Skype For Business. However, they allow functionality as we have never seen before. From annotating, screen sharing and recording. The ability to connect with multiples of users in a single call can happen. The applications are endless.
Educational institutions that implement distance learning can benefit from webinar functionality. Therefore, this allows students to connect with their instructor. This can be done with their PC, Laptop, Tablet or even Smartphone. These students have the ability to ask by put up their virtual hand. By asking a question and receiving real-time feedback is simple. At a later time or date, recordings can be accessible for students who wish to refer to particular sections. Students and teachers can even collaborate on a virtual whiteboard. Therefore, enhancing learning retention, and adding to the interactive experience.
Similarity, corporate spaces benefit from video conferencing solutions today. Multiple rooms can implement these systems. In the past, this would have cost hundreds of thousands of dollars. Today it costs a fraction. Purchasing hardware can be done independently. Operating proprietary components is not essential. Software is customizable and interchangeable. Therefore, eliminating the lockdown methods manufacturers utilized in the past.
Video Conference Equipment
The key components of a modern video conference system:
- Windows PC or Mac Computer
- USB Web camera. For example, Logitech, AVer, ClearOne, Vaddio
- USB Conference or Speakerphone. For example, Crestron Mercury, Revolabs FLX, Biamp Devio
- Wireless Mouse & Keyboard
- Software Application of Choice. For example, Zoom, Skype, Hangouts, BlueJeans, Webex
Each piece of the puzzle is widely accessible and affordable. Most importantly, it requires minimal configuration. Systems for small to mid-sized rooms are plug and play.
Larger spaces require more comprehensive additions and enhancements. These are typically based around the audio portion of the system. We will feature the benefits of a carefully programmed, tuned and installed the system. Which will be for a larger boardroom or meeting room in our next post.
Until next time. Contact Limitless AV for all your video conferencing application needs. Don’t forget to follow us on social @LimitlessAV.
