What Is Audio/Video Conferencing?
Audio/video conferencing is essentially a way for people who are not in the same location to communicate remotely. This is accomplished by viewing the other person in a TV monitor, computer, or video projector, and talking into a microphone.
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Components
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Components involved are video input, such as a webcam or video camera, and video output in the form of a computer monitor, television or projector. Microphones provide audio input while loudspeakers provide audio output. A digital or analog network, or Internet is needed for data transfer.
Types
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Dedicated systems possess all necessary components within a single console. Desktop systems are PCs that are converted to conferencing systems by adding the necessary components.
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Multipoint Videoconferencing
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If three or more parties are in an audio/video conference, a Multipoint Conferencing Unit is required to act as a bridge to interconnect the calls.
Problems
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Technical difficulties can often arise, disrupting the communication. Audio/video conferencing can also be impersonal, as it is currently impossible to maintain eye contact when a camera is involved.
Impact
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Audio/video conferencing has impacted education, business, and the general public. It is now possible to participate in distance learning, to save cost on travel for meetings, and to talk to friends and relatives across the globe.
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References
- Photo Credit jack audio-video image by Andrea Riva from Fotolia.com
