If you are considering improving your communications infrastructure with the introduction of audio and video conferencing products then you should talk to us immediately.

We have long experience with Polycom, PictureTel and VCON Video conferencing systems on both ISDN and IP connections. However, the success or failure of a video/audio conferencing project depends greatly on the planning that has gone into the project - we can advise you on achieving the best price/performance package for your immediate and future needs. We take into account ALL the factors as we believe that any installation should be part of a well managed and thought-out communications strategy.

So, it doesn't matter if you are thinking of installing a $100 webcam or a $200,000 dollar conference room fitout - talk to us first and we will make sure your project succeeds.

Video Conferencing basically breaks down into 3 types :

1 to 1. This is where 1 site is linked directly to another site (either directly via ISDN or a wide area network IP link).

1 to Multiple. Where multiple sites link together. Usually this takes the form of up to 4 participants (or sites) where the screen at each site splits into multiple windows. Although you can have more than 4 sites in a call (usually done via a VERY expensive 'bridge') we find that this takes place so rarely that it is usually easier to rent time on someone else' bridge' when needed (if ever).

1 to Many. This is where you might have either a 1 to 1 or 1 to multiple link up and then also 'broadcast' or stream the conference out to PC's on the Intranet/Internet. This allows Sales Meetings, Training Sessions or other conferences to be sent out as necessary to involve many more participants than would otherwise be possible. Think of this as watching David Frost interviewing a politician. David Frost and the Politician are the conference participants and you (& many others) are watching the broadcast. Similarly to this situation, Internet/Intranet participants can sometimes 'phone in' via their computer to ask questions of the conference participant.

Compatibility
Basically most video conferencing systems will interact with each other with no problem. There are a variety of published standards (using names like H323 or T120 - see our resource centre for an explanatory document) but really all you need to know is whether you are going to conference via an ISDN line (usual method) or a network (otherwise known as Ethernet or 'ip') link. If you are unsure then ring our support staff and we will help with identifying your requirements).

Makes and Models
Unless you know what you are doing then identifying the most suitable system for your requirements can be a bit of a minefield.

Our preferred supplier is Polycom - their range is superb, most of the product lines are expandable and the pricing is extremely competetive. For example, a stand-alone 1 to 1 unit starts at under AU$5,000 and even a 1 to multiple 4 way unit costs less than AU$20,000 (excludes monitor & sound system).

Other manufacturers we work with, (but not limited to) are PictureTel, & VCon