What You'll Need (Detailed)

    Exactly what you'll need to start videoconferencing:

A Functioning Computer with an Internet Connection

    The title of this requirement is slightly misleading: you need a good working computer, not just one that functions.  Depending on your goals, you may need a more or less powerful computer.  This guide recommends at least a Pentium III computer running Windows2000 or WindowsXP.  However, most of the implementations in this guide will probably run competently on a Pentium II computer running Windows95 or above.
    For the internet connection, there are many satisfactory options.  Any user with a high speed internet connection (T1, T3 or DSL lines) should have no problems at all.  Users with medium speed connections (ISDN lines, Cable modems) should be alright, but might not get the highest quality conferences.  Dialup modems, while they are capable of transmitting and recieving audio and video, will severely limit the quality of the conference.  For a more detailed discussion of connection options, click here.

Speakers and a MicrophoneHeadset

    In order to hear the videoconference, you must have properly configured speakers of some type.  In order to speak to the conference, you must have a properly configured microphone.  A headset with microphone is recommended, since it effectively isolates the speakers and microphone in order to minimize feedback.  Speakers and microphones can be easily purchased from any computer store for a low price (a good headset can be obtained for under $20).  Don't know where to get one?  Try www.jandr.com or www.amazon.com.

A Digital VideocameraWebcam

    The videocamera is what makes for a videoconference rather than just an IP phone call.  In order for you to be seen by the other conference participant(s), you must have a functioning videocamera.  Computer videocameras run the gamut from cheap and bad to expensive and great.  Luckily, there is a very good middle ground.  Many companies sell perfectly suited USB videocameras in the $40 to $100 range.  To set the camera up for videoconferencing, just follow the manufacturer's instructions.  Don't know where to get one?  Try www.jandr.com or www.amazon.com.


Client Software

    The requirement of client software is where most of the variance in videoconferencing setups arises.  There are many clients available; some for free, some for very high prices.  While some are compatible only with themselves, many use the same standard.  Your choice of client is entirely dependent upon your needs and budget.  For a detailed discussion of different clients, click here.  Keep in mind that the majority of stand-alone units use the H.323 protocol, so if you'd like to be able to communicate with one, you'll need an H.323 compatible client.

TimeWatch

    Like most projects, IP videoconferencing takes time to set up.  With no problems (while highly unlikely, it does happen sometimes...) the process can take only an hour or two.  However, since things rarely run as smoothly as they should, plan on spending at least a day getting everything running.