1. What is videoconferencing?
Videoconferencing is a method of communication using electronic devices to provide live video and audio between two or more sites. The conferences maybe between individuals or groups at each site.

2. Why do we need Videoconferencing?
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 a cost efficient time saver. This is partly due to fewer travel, accommodation and entertainment expenses, but more importantly, the time saved by not traveling to meetings. Videoconferencing enables faster decision-making.

3. What can we do with Videoconferencing?
Videoconferencing allows you to meet for scheduled or unscheduled meetings, crisis resolution, interviews and design meetings. You can 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, photo slides and hi-res still pictures. You can also print documents, talk at a whiteboard, give a PowerPoint presentation and record the entire meeting on video. With Sony Videoconferencing, you can do virtually everything you would do in a face-to-face meeting.

4. Can we have more than just two sites in a meeting?
Sony's Multipoint software allows up to 4 sites to meet together at a moments notice using the ISDN network. A standard telephone call can also participate and is completely secure. If more than 4 sites are required then these can be connected via an external service provider.

5. How many units need to have Multipoint software to enable a 4-site meeting?
Only one unit requires the multipoint software whilst other participants simply need a standards compliant (H.320) videoconference system to participate.

6. What makes up a videoconference system?
For a basic system, videoconferencing includes a Video Camera, Microphone, CODEC, Video Monitor, Speaker and Network Connection.

7. What is a CODEC?
A CODEC processes the video, audio signals and manages the communications. The CODEC converts analogue audio and video signals to digital signals. It then compresses them before transmitting them to the distant site, where they are decoded, expanded and played out on the monitor and speakers.

8. What is ISDN?
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.

9. What standards should I look for when purchasing my Videoconferencing system?
For Videoconferencing on ISDN, look for compliance with the H.320 standard. This ensures connectivity, pictures (H.261) and sound (G.711). Extra features included as options under H.320 include far end camera control and input selection (H.281), superior audio quality (G.722 & G.728) and video quality (H.263).
For videoconferencing over your IP network, look for compliance with the H.323 standard.

10. What is the difference between a Premium, Group and Desktop system?
The true Premium system typically provides top end performance and a wide range of options thanks to high-powered hardware design. It is ideal for group videoconferencing where integration into a complete AV system is required. Set Top are complete videoconferencing systems designed to sit on a television set, using the TV to reproduce the pictures and sound. They are easy to set-up, use and are significantly less expensive than the Premium system. Desktop systems work well as personal videoconferencing systems, having a simple camera designed to accommodate one or two people with basic audio facilities integrated into a desktop PC.
 
     
11. Why should I choose Sony Videoconferencing?
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 regional Australia, 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!