Introduction to Equipment
**Important - Videoconferencing Endpoint Interoperability with JVCS explains why software/firmware upgrades are important to continued interoperability between an organisation's endpoint and JVCS equipment.
Organisations considering purchasing videoconferencing equipment need to initially seek local advice. FECs or HEIs should contsult their network manager and schools should seek advice from their Local Authority or RBC before purchasing any equipment. See the Videoconferencing for Schools page for who to contact in each area of the UK.
The Video Technology Advisory Service (VTAS) also provides advice to the schools’ regional bodies, along with FECs and HEIs. Schools are welcome to email VTAS with queries but they will be referred back to their LA or RBC if they haven't yet consulted with either organisation.
Purchasing Framework
Currently, JANET(UK) has a prefered pricing Framework Agreement in place for the those eligible to use JVCS to take advantage of. This could save time and money for institutions when looking to purchase videoconferencing equipment.
What equipment do I need?
Standards-compliant videoconferencing equipment can range from a webcam on top of your monitor through to a dedicated room with multiple screens and cameras. Budget is going to be a determining factor when considering which equipment to buy. Some software CODECs* with a suitable webcam and high specification PC may suit your needs, although it is worth noting that the quality of such a solution may only make it suitable for desktop videoconferences. For meetings involving groups of people, a solution designed specifically for videoconferencing should be considered. There is a wide choice of such equipment available via major manufacturers.
When looking to purchase equipment, use the VTAS Glossary to help clarify technical terminology.
What Standards should my equipment comply with?
An important factor when choosing equipment is to ensure it is compatible (interoperable) with the other people you would like to communicate with; this is where Standards come in. The internationally recognised Standards supported by JVCS are H.323 (for IP videoconferencing) and H.320 (for ISDN videoconferencing). The JVCS managed service also provides a gateway which offers support for videoconferences between H.323 and H.320 technologies.
Some manufacturers offer proprietary solutions which enable videoconferencing but only with people using the same manufacturers equipment. For more information see the Videoconferencing Standards factsheet.
Why use IP/H.323 videoconferencing?
IP/H.323 videoconferencing uses existing local and regional networks, and the JANET backbone to transmit the videoconference. This has an advantage over ISDN in that there are no call costs for the videoconference. When using the local and regional network connections for videoconferencing, the traffic has to compete with all the other traffic using the internet link, e.g. e-mail and web browsing. This raises the next question:
How much bandwidth do I need?
In theory, most modern broadband connected organisations have ample bandwidth to conduct a standard videoconference. However, in practice, there are a number of other factors that will affect your ability to videoconference including the amount of other network traffic. A typical videoconference can use around 384kbps (upload and download speed) but more are now using 786kbps or above for a higher quality connection. Network specialists within your organisation or region (LA or RBC) should be able to provide further advice on bandwith requirements.
Videoconferencing from Home
Home broadband (ADSL), although claiming download speeds of up to 8Mbps or more, often does not provide sufficient upload speeds to enable a smooth videoconference in both directions. It should also be noted that ADSL is contested bandwidth, meaning you may be sharing your 8Mbps download speed with 50 other people at any given time. The best way to determine if your home broadband it suitable for videoconferencing is by testing it. In the first instance, arrange a videoconference with your network specialist to test the connection. In the second instance, email VTAS to arrange a proper Quality Assurance test.
SDSL (Symmetric Digital Subscriber Line) is another type of broadband that may be a solution if videoconferencing from home is mission critical. It provides the same download and upload speeds, e.g. if you have 2Mpbs download speed, you would have 2Mbps upload speed. Keep in mind that SDSL may be a great deal more expensive than ADSL and the bandwidth still contested unless a premuim price is paid for 1:1 contention.
*A CODEC is a hardware device or software program capable of encoding and/or decoding a digital data stream or signal.