Majority of today's businesses are adopting video conferencing system in running meetings and conferences. This mode of connectivity not only brings efficiency and productivity but also cuts down on business costs. However, to ensure proper communication, there are a number of hardware and software requirements for video conferencing that must be met. Following through the requirements can help a business hold meetings instantly and get everyone attending regardless of where they are. So, what hardware and software is needed for video conferencing? Everything you need to know is discussed below. Here we list main hardware and software requirements for video conferencing.
Main components of a video conferencing system:
Video Conferencing Hardware Requirements: 1. Camera One of the most basic hardware used in video conferencing system is the web cam. This camera is basically used to record a video signal sent to people on the other end of the live session. Businesses particularly need high-definition (HD) conferencing cameras that come with advanced features like remote control pan, tilt and zoom. In the medical applications or educational conferences, participants may need to use additional or
secondary cameras to ensure more clarity. Adopting HD cameras simply ensures participants enjoy the highest resolution even with the largest images.
2. Codec Unit Another important hardware required for video conferencing is the CODEC (coderdecoder). Its major work is to take audio and video feed, compress it and then transmit it via an IP network. It also decompresses or expands incoming audio and video stream and maintains the network’s data link.
3. Video Display Video display is a very important component of any video conferencing system. It is mainly used to provide monitor display for live video conference sessions. Some of the most common video conferencing displays available in the market include LCD, HD Plasma display, LDP Projector and XGA PC Type Display. Majority of businesses prefer high-definition display ranging between 720p and 1080p because they offer the best resolution. Such displays also offer extra viewing space compared to standard monitor devices.
4. Microphone and Speakers Microphone and audio subsystems are also an important part of hardware needed for video conferencing. Analogue microphone pods can be used to meet video conferencing needs, especially for a small group of people. Participants need microphones or headsets to communicate with attendees on the other end during a live session. Intermediate video collaboration systems adopt a gated selection of digital microphones that run on integrated software. These types of collaborative microphones are used in large group interactions. Microphones used in video conferencing should be able to deliver instant connectivity and cancel any background echoes. To complete the list of video conferencing hardware requirements, a business needs to find a good set of speakers that produce clear audio. Poor quality speakers can lead to participants not hearing everything or missing out on important details of the meeting.
Video Conferencing Software Requirements: 1. Desktop End-Point Software
Desktop endpoint applications or browser-based interfaces are software in a PC that facilitate access to instant video conferencing. These applications simply rely on existing built-in cameras or external USB-connected devices to relay information. For the audio system to work perfectly, it must work with integrated microphones, speakers or any other USB-connect devices. Many video conferencing providers, like Zoom, Lifesize and ezTalks, released its own video conferencing software, which are fully compatible with Windows, Mac, iOS and Android. Browser-based clients can also make use of webRTC (web real-time communication) capabilities of browsers like Firefox and/or Chrome to support video conferencing.
2. Broadband Internet Access In order to enjoy instant video conferencing streaming, a business needs a high-speed internet service. Getting a broadband modem, instead of a standard modem, can help deal with the huge bandwidth that's involved in running live conferencing sessions. The aim of having a stable internet access capability is to ensure smooth instant streaming, clarity of audio/video and consistency in making presentations. PCs used in connecting to video conferencing sessions can establish internet access through routers fitted in the business offices.
3. Mobile Video Apps Mobile video applications can enable meeting attendees to participate in video conferences via their smartphones, tablets or iPads regardless of wherever they're located.
4. Web Conference Software Adopting web conference software can help add a number of important features to a business' video conference needs. These video conferencing software not only facilitate VoIP (Voice over Internet Protocol) communication but also allow for video streaming, application sharing and private text chats. Most of the software also come with record and playback ability, whiteboards, instant messaging and inbound faxing. They can simply be a perfect addition to your list of hardware and software requirements for video conferencing.
Conclusion These are among some of the video conferencing hardware and software requirements that you might to consider as a small business. While acquiring all these components can
cost you extra money, it will pay off in the long run. Having a stable video conferencing system will ensure efficient communication, higher productivity and reduced costs. Investing in hardware and software for video conferencing is simply worthwhile.
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