The Basics:

    There are certain things that every user of IP videoconferencing should know.  Here, in no particular order, are these things.

How IP Videoconferencing Works  

    IP Videoconferencing, though it may take many different forms, usually works in about the same way.  A user at one computer (let's call him Andrew) wants to communicate with a user at another (Betty).  Andrew starts a piece of videoconferencing software (a client).  The software sends a message to the IP address of Betty's computer.  If she is running a compatible client, the two computers will send messages back and forth until they have established a connection.  Then, Andrew and Betty can start their converstation.  Each of their computers will send the neccesary audio, video and control data to the other's.  When they are done communicating, one of them tells his/her computer to end the call.  The client does so, and the call is over.

    This scenario, of course, is a very simplified one.  For a more detailed explanation, click here.

What You'll Need

    You can't go snorkeling without the correct equipment; the same holds for IP videoconferencing.  In order to participate in a videoconference, you'll need certain pieces of software and hardware.  This equipment will vary greatly depending on your specific needs, but some guidelines hold for most every user.  You'll need:
  1. A functioning computer with an internet connection (this guide will deal specifically with Windows computers; however, the general concepts in the guide can be applied to any computer.)
  2. Some type of speakers (a headset is great) and a microphone, properly connected to your computer.
  3. A digital videocamera, properly connected to your computer (if you'd like to transmit video).
  4. Client software.
  5. Some time to set everything up.
    These are neccesarily somewhat vague; for more information on any of the requirements, click on the requirement link.


Getting Started

    Once you've decided what you'll need (and how much money you'll be willing to spend) you can begin setting up your videoconferencing system.  Before installing any software, make sure that your hardware is properly installed and functioning.  This includes all videocameras, microphones and speakers, as well as internet connections.  Your next step will be installation of client software - you can obtain any of the clients listed in the Client Table by clicking on the hyperlink in the rightmost column.  Then, follow the manufacturer's instructions to install the client.  Set up all options as the default unless you know better.

The Next Step

    Now that you have your computer set up, it's time to conference.  If you've decided to use iVisit, ReLaTe, or any multipoint-friendly client, then you're done - simply follow the program's instructions to join a conference.  If you're using an H.323 client, there is still some setup you'll need to do in order to have multipoint conferences.  You'll need to set up an MCU.  For instructions on how to set up an entirely free MCU program, click here.  If you aren't satisfied with this, you have other options.  You can buy a hardware MCU, which will provide great quality, but at a very high cost (upwards of $5000).  You can look for a hardware solution at a retailer such as www.planetcomm.com or www.vc4less.com.

More Information

    For more information on anything that was missed by this site, try the Information page.