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Thanks for stopping by. I'm Carol Skyring & this is where I talk about videoconferencing.
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Sep
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Multipoint videoconferences
September 10, 2009 | | Leave a Comment
You can connect a number of sites if you need to hold a meeting or class between people in many different locations – called a multipoint. It is technically possible to connect hundreds of sites, but not practical to do so. Multipoint videoconferences are usually a little more formal than point-to-point simply because of the numbers involved.
A multipoint videoconference is connected through a piece of equipment called a multipoint control unit (MCU) – commonly called a ‘bridge’. The bridge is a mass of hardware & software that you might own – or hire on an ‘as needs’ basis. Some videoconference systems have a built-in bridge that will allow you to connect a small number of sites.
There are two basic modes of operation for multipoint videoconferences:
Voice activated
In this mode of operating, any site that speaks will be automatically seen on the screen. The current speaker is seen by all sites and the current speaker sees the previous speaker. The system will also switch to a site at any continuous sound. This could be tapping, rustling or any on-going equipment noise external to the room eg machinery or loud air conditioning unit. The only way to overcome this is to have all sites mute their microphones unless speaking.
Continuous presence
The screen can be divided into several sections and one site appears in each rectangle. The advantage of this is that everyone can see everyone else at all times. This can also be a disadvantage if participants don’t remain aware of the fact that they can be seen at all times (see this video!!!). The other possible disadvantage is that you will not be able to see a full screen close up of a speaker or documents being displayed. However, some bridges allow you to receive a full screen of the speaker while allowing them to receive a split screen with all sites visible.
Below is a sample Continuous Presence screen (thanks to Seth at the Video Over Enterprise Blog)
