FAQS

Video Conferencing FAQ'S

1. Videoconferencing is a method of communication using electronic devices to provide live video and audio between two or more sites.  The conferences may be between individuals or groups at each site. Back to top

2. Videoconferencing enables people to interact and call meetings at a moments notice between distant parties.  They can talk through ideas and exchange information as if they were in the same room.  The result is increased productivity and reduced costs.  This is partly due to fewer travel, accommodation and entertainment expenses, but more importantly because of the time saved by not travelling to meetings.  Videoconferencing enables faster decision-making. Back to top

3. Videoconferencing allows you to meet for scheduled or unscheduled meetings, crisis resolution, interviews and design meetings.  It also allows you to meet clients or suppliers, distribute expertise more effectively, run training courses, and play a video tape via remote vision.  Videoconferencing enables you to show objects, documents, photos and high res still images.  You can also share printed documents, electronic whiteboards, give a PowerPoint presentation and record the entire meeting on video.  With Sony Videoconferencing, you can do virtually everything you do in a face-to-face meeting. Back to top

4. Sony's Multipoint software allows up to 10 sites to meet together at a moments notice using an ISDN and / or IP network.  A standard telephone call can also participate.  If more than 10 sites are required, then these can be connected via an external service provider. Back to top

5. Only one unit requires the multipoint software and the other participants just need a standards compliant videoconference system to participate.  Back to top

6. Two units require the multipoint software and the other participants need a standards compliant videoconference system to participate.  The two units with multipoint software are cascaded (connected) together with up to an additional four systems connected to each of them.  Back to top

7. For a basic system, Videoconferencing includes a Video camera, microphone, CODEC, video monitor, speaker and network connection. Back to top

8. A CODEC is the equipment that processes the video and audio signals and manages the communications.  The CODEC coverts analogue audio and video signals to digital signals and then compresses them before transmitting them to the distant site where they are decoded, expanded and played out on the monitor and
speakers.  Back to top

9. ISDN (Integrated Services Digital Network) is just like a telephone line, but is fully digital so you get a guaranteed data rate.  ISDN is available virtually everywhere in the world.  Calls are charged based on time and distance. Back to top

10. For videoconferencing on ISDN, look for compliance with the H.320 standard or over   your IP network look for compliance with the H.323 standard.  This ensures connectivity, pictures (H.261) and sound (G.711).  Extra features included as options under H.320 & H.323 include far end camera control and input selection (H.281), better audio quality (G.722 and G.728) and better video quality (H.263 or H.264).  For Dual stream the new standard is (H.239). Back to top

11. Most videoconferencing systems support at least one extra (auxiliary) video input, apart from the main camera.  This input can be used to connect a document camera so that you can include hardcopy documents, objects, OHP slides, printed photos, medical images or 35mm slides into your video meetings.  You can also connect a VCR or Handycam to replay video footage.  Sony videoconferencing systems also include a memory stick slot to store and transmit presentations in the form of JPEG images from a PC or photos from your digital camera. You can also record the video meeting on a VCR for reference later.  Back to top

12. There are several ways to do this including:

• The easiest way is to directly connect your PC to the videoconference system.  To do this you will need to have the optional Data Solutions Box.  Your PC images can be displayed at the near and far ends in their native format (XGA) if you have a data solutions box at both ends.
  
• You can convert your PowerPoint presentations to JPEG images and save these to your memory stick.  This allows you to share your saved images with the remote site and all you need to bring to the meeting is your memory stick!   Back to top

13. Of course.  All you need is the network connection, and the system can be easily moved, ready for your next meeting.  Back to top

14. Of course, and Sony has a great range of Projectors to suit your meeting room needs.  Back to top

15. The audio in each system is specifically designed to suit its application.  Extra microphones can be added if necessary.  Some models can even be connected to a sound reinforcement system in large rooms or auditoriums.  Back to top

17. Sony's reputation for high quality video and audio equipment is second to none.  You can rely on Sony's videoconferencing products to deliver the quality you expect with the reliability and ease of use you demand.  With a global support network that reaches across Australia and beyond, you can be confident that your Sony Videoconferencing system will continue to add value to your business for many years.

.Only Sony can provide a complete Videoconferencing solution from camera to monitor as well as all the peripherals you could need including VCR, document camera, scan converter, digital camera, Handycam, memory stick, projectors&&&&&.everything.  All from Sony! Back to top

18. Sony's PrimeVox telephone support services will ensure that your Sony Videoconferencing systems run at optimum efficiency at all times.  In the rare case of system failure, our diagnostics can quickly identify and fix set-up problems.  Our network of service support covers regional areas of Australia as well as the rest of the world.  Sony also provides 3 years warranty on parts and labour to ensure you enjoy the benefits of your investment day in, day out. Back to top