DOCSLIB.ORG

Launching Your First Videoconference

Total Page：16

File Type：pdf, Size：1020Kb

Download full-text PDF Read full-text
Launching Your First Videoconference Launching Your First Videoconference BY KURT GARTNER hether it’s a timpani pedal FireWire are common) determine your computer’s capacity to mechanism, a metronome, or • Videoconference software (many handle videoconferences are processor Wan audio recording device, programs are free) speed and internal memory (RAM). yesterday’s cutting-edge technologies • Internet connection (faster is better) Another associated variable is the quality generally represent today’s “old news,” • Ancillary audio (sound system) and of your computer’s graphics adapter— accepted as common items of daily use. video (monitor and/or projection) the circuit board that sends graphical Currently, we are in a period of growing information to your monitor. Although acceptance of the videoconference as COMPUTER HARDWARE REQUIREMENTS you may not need to upgrade these a viable, practical medium for musical Computer technologies overtake components, it’s often handy to know collaboration. According to dictionary. one another at an alarming rate, so it’s “what’s under the hood.” reference.com, the term “videoconference” difficult to write an article—a snapshot To see your PC’s vital signs, click on originated between 1970 and 1975. Since in time—and declare what represents an “My Computer,” then click on “View those formative years, videoconference adequate computer system to use. If your system information” (under “System technology has become far more affordable computer’s processor, memory, and other Tasks”). There, you will see your processor and technically accessible. components are robust, your computer’s speed and amount of RAM. You can see a performance will be of higher quality. description of your graphics adapter in the INVENTION IS THE MOTHER OF Device Manager. NECESSITY On a Mac, you can view your A few years ago, Allan Molnar system information by clicking on (who recently completed a term as “About this Mac” from the Apple PAS Music Technology Committee pull-down menu. By clicking on the Chair) was racing around at “More Info…” button, you can see a PASIC with a portable DVD detailed information about the rest of player, proselytizing the virtues of your hardware, including graphics. videoconferences. Currently, Allan and others respond to requests COMPATIBLE CAMERA AND for videoconference information MICROPHONE at an ever-increasing rate. Allan Many new computers are deserves the lion’s share of credit manufactured with built-in for increasing the awareness and camera/microphone combinations. use of this technology among PAS Personally, I prefer the flexibility of membership (and beyond). external cameras and microphones, The purpose of this article is to since I often need to aim the camera provide the information necessary Dr. Julia Gaines (University of Missouri) observes a Kansas in a direction other than that of the to launch your first videoconference. State University jury performance. computer monitor (such as in lessons Keep in mind that this is not a or concert performances). Most PCs discussion of high-end, broadcast- have USB ports, which connect with quality technology, but technology that can You may want to start by using most “webcams,” which can sit on your be implemented in the home, studio, or your existing hardware and testing its desktop or clip to the top of your laptop. classroom. performance before running to your Of course, you get what you pay for, but favorite computer store for a completely you can certainly have a decent camera at QUICK START CHECKLIST new system. If you simply want to use minimal expense. Before reading the rest of the article, you the videoconference as a platform for Many PC cameras are sold with small may want to refer to this basic checklist of discussions with peers, one-on-one microphones, which typically plug into videoconference requirements and work lessons, and the like, you may be satisfied the 1/8-inch microphone jack on your on your own: with your existing gear. If you plan to computer. As a musician, the odds are • Computer (this article refers to both participate in “high stakes” projects such good that you already own a microphone PC and Mac platforms) as public performances, you may wish to that’s better than the one you get with an • Compatible camera and microphone, invest in newer equipment. entry-level USB camera. A good rule of which connect to your computer (USB or The primary variables that will thumb is that any microphone with a 1/8- PERCUSSIVE NOTES 56 DECEMBER 2007 inch connector should connect successfully Speaking anecdotally, the most reliable selecting a buddy and clicking on the with your computer’s standard sound connections that I have experienced were videoconference button within your card. Mac-to-Mac iChat connections. messenger software. In the case of iChat, Most Macintosh computers have Once you have your software this appears as a highlighted camera icon FireWire (IEEE 1394) ports, which offer downloaded and installed, you will next to the screen name of the person you connectivity with many digital movie be prompted to establish your account wish to contact. cameras as well as the iSight camera— and confirm the presence of peripheral which is already out of production. hardware such as your webcam. The INTERNET CONNECTION The above info represents the “screen name” that you create will be the It’s important to remember that simplest options. The next step in better identifier that others will use to find you videoconferences are real-time, two-way audio quality could include the use of online. While setting up your account (or more) communication, which means professional microphones and an audio preferences, you’ll also establish a “buddy that massive amounts of data are traveling mixer, sending line level outputs to the list,” which is the online equivalent to the between your computer and those of computer’s 1/8-inch line input jack. Of speed dial function of your telephone. others with whom you connect. To some course, these steps may lead you to the use Also, most software allows you to restrict extent, the quality of your videoconference of even more peripheral hardware such your online visibility to the screen names is only as good as the bandwidth (data as a digital audio interface, but that gets of others whom you specify, such as those transfer rate) of the slowest point of beyond the scope of the basic approach of on your buddy list (or a more restricted list connection. Most consumer-grade Internet this article. of screen names, which may be changed services such as DSL (digital subscriber at your discretion). When you’re running line) and cable offer sufficient bandwidth VIDEOCONFERENCE SOFTWARE your software, your buddies who are for a decent video image. Faster means Videoconference software exists for currently online will be specified on your of connection, such as ISDN (integrated both PC and Mac platforms, and some buddy list, which is constantly updated. services digital network) offered in software actually allows PC-to-Mac If your camera is connected correctly, corporate and university environments, videoconferences. In my experience, you can initiate a videoconference by provide even greater bandwidth. success comes most easily when all participants in a videoconference are using the same software on the same platform (i.e., PC or Mac). Yahoo Messenger, Windows Live Messenger, and AOL Instant Messenger are examples of downloadable software. To get started, visit the Website of your chosen software company, download the software, and follow the prompts to set up the software and establish your account. Many messenger programs (and account access) are free, and many are offered in both Mac and PC formats. Questions to ask include: • What platform am I using, and what platform are my collaborators using? • What are the computer requirements of the software I wish to use? • Will the software allow full-screen video of my collaborator on my monitor, or other features such as multi-point conferences? iChat software was developed for use on Macs, but it is designed to connect with other users of iChat as well as users of AOL Instant Messenger (IM), whether on PC or Mac platform. iChat users may log in via their Instant Messenger (free) or .mac (subscription-based) accounts. In other words, you can (theoretically) use either iChat or IM on a Mac to connect with either PCs or other Macs. Due to many variables—often beyond the understanding of the author—connections between PCs and Macs are less reliable than PC-to-PC or Mac-to-Mac connections. PERCUSSIVE NOTES 57 DECEMBER 2007 PERCUSSIVE NOTES 58 DECEMBER 2007 Videoconferences may be conducted messenger software. Most computers can rewards of establishing videoconferences using wireless Internet connectivity (such be easily connected to projectors or large can return rewards of great value. as a wireless router), but given the choice, monitors to allow more people to see the Eventually, you will stop asking yourself, you may prefer the relative stability of videoconference. “How can this technology really help me?” a hard-wired connection. It’s always a and you will begin asking yourself, “How good idea to test your wireless connection OTHER TIPS did I ever get along without this?” ahead of time and have the hard-wired As percussionists, we are used to the option available. As this article is being notion of arriving at any performance far Dr. Kurt Gartner written, companies are developing better, ahead of the scheduled start time. Take this is Professor of Percussion more stable wireless platforms, including attitude into all of your videoconferences, at Kansas State University. As a 2006–2007 wireless broadband services, which are not since you may have connectivity issues Big 12 Faculty Fellow, he collaborated with tied to physical transmission points such as associated with your buddy list, the the percussion studio and jazz program the wireless routers found in many homes compatibility of software, your cameras, at the University of Missouri.
Load more

Recommended publications
  • Displayport: the Next Generation Interface for High-Definition Video and Audio Content
    TA0339 Technical article DisplayPort: the next generation interface for high-definition video and audio content 1 Introduction Over the past decade, entertainment and communications in consumer electronics have moved to digital formats. Full HDTV, 3D gaming, 3D video, 4K x 2K screens, internet video, and IP-based video conferencing all require more bandwidth, increased memory, and improved connectivity between devices. As the digital ecosystem evolves, innovative interfaces are emerging in response to the new digital vistas that are opening up. Many of these interfaces are often driven by a single company or a small group of companies and are crafted in a way that, sooner or later, will require customers to pay royalties. DisplayPort is a VESA (Video Electronics Standards Association) interface standard for high-speed, high-definition audio and video. It has been developed by the VESA committee, with contributions from over 60 people from numerous diverse sectors: chip makers, cable makers, connector manufacturers, and computer and consumer electronics manufacturers. DisplayPort is free of charge and any VESA member can contribute towards its evolution. No fees, no royalties, just advanced technology. DisplayPort has become well known since its wide adoption by Apple, Dell, and HP; however, many people talk about DisplayPort without really knowing the underlying aspects of this standard. This article details what DisplayPort offers and helps readers understand why and how this evolving interface will co-exist with existing digital video and audio interfaces. June 2010 Doc ID 17420 Rev 1 1/8 www.st.com Why was DisplayPort created? TA0339 2 Why was DisplayPort created? The personal computer is increasingly becoming a media hub for the home.
    [Show full text]
  • Welcome to Computer Basics
    Computer Basics Instructor's Guide 1 COMPUTER BASICS To the Instructor Because of time constraints and an understanding that the trainees will probably come to the course with widely varying skills levels, the focus of this component is only on the basics. Hence, the course begins with instruction on computer components and peripheral devices, and restricts further instruction to the three most widely used software areas: the windows operating system, word processing and using the Internet. The course uses lectures, interactive activities, and exercises at the computer to assure accomplishment of stated goals and objectives. Because of the complexity of the computer and the initial fear experienced by so many, instructor dedication and patience are vital to the success of the trainee in this course. It is expected that many of the trainees will begin at “ground zero,” but all should have developed a certain level of proficiency in using the computer, by the end of the course. 2 COMPUTER BASICS Overview Computers have become an essential part of today's workplace. Employees must know computer basics to accomplish their daily tasks. This mini course was developed with the beginner in mind and is designed to provide WTP trainees with basic knowledge of computer hardware, some software applications, basic knowledge of how a computer works, and to give them hands-on experience in its use. The course is designed to “answer such basic questions as what personal computers are and what they can do,” and to assist WTP trainees in mastering the basics. The PC Novice dictionary defines a computer as a machine that accepts input, processes it according to specified rules, and produces output.
    [Show full text]
  • Chapter 1 PC Architecture
    Chapter PC Architecture THE FOLLOWING OBJECTIVES ARE COVERED IN THIS CHAPTER: 1 1.1 Identify the names, purpose, and characteristics, of system modules. Recognize these modules by sight or definition. 1.5 Identify the names, purposes, and performance characteristics, of standardized/common peripheral ports, associated cabling, and their connectors. Recognize ports, cabling, and connectors, by sight. COPYRIGHTED MATERIAL A personal computer (PC) is a computing device made up of many distinct electronic components that all function together in order to accomplish some useful task (such as adding up the numbers in a spreadsheet or helping you write a letter). By this definition, note that we’re describing a computer as having many distinct parts that work together. Most computers today are modular. That is, they have components that can be removed and replaced with a component of similar function in order to improve performance. Each component has a very specific function. In this chapter, you will learn about the components that make up a typical PC, what their function is, and how they work together inside the PC. Unless specifically mentioned otherwise, throughout this book the terms PC and computer can be used interchangeably. The components in most computers include: The case The power supply The motherboard The processor /CPU Memory Storage devices The adapter cards Display devices Ports and cables As you read this chapter, please keep in mind that many of these parts will be covered in more detail in later chapters. Figure 1.1 shows an example of a typical PC and illustrates how some of these parts fit together.
    [Show full text]
  • EN User Manual 1 Customer Care and Warranty 16 Troubleshooting & Faqs 21 Table of Contents
    258B6 www.philips.com/welcome EN User manual 1 Customer care and warranty 16 Troubleshooting & FAQs 21 Table of Contents 1. Important �����������������������������������������������1 1.1 Safety precautions and maintenance .1 1.2 Notational Descriptions ���������������������������2 1.3 Disposal of product and packing material ���������������������������������������������������������������3 2. Setting up the monitor �����������������������4 2.1 Installation ���������������������������������������������������������4 2.2 Operating the monitor ������������������������������6 2.3 Remove the Base Assembly for VESA Mounting ������������������������������������������������������������8 3. Image Optimization �����������������������������9 3.1 SmartImage ������������������������������������������������������9 3.2 SmartContrast ���������������������������������������������10 4. Technical Specifications .....................11 4.1 Resolution & Preset Modes �����������������14 5. Power Management ���������������������������15 6. Customer care and warranty ..........16 6.1 Philips’ Flat Panel Monitors Pixel Defect Policy �������������������������������������������������16 6.2 Customer Care & Warranty ���������������18 7 Troubleshooting & FAQs ..................21 7.1 Troubleshooting ������������������������������������������21 7.2 General FAQs ����������������������������������������������22 1. Important • Please use approved power cord provided 1. Important by Philips at all times. If your power cord is missing, please contact your local service This
    [Show full text]
  • Chapter 5 Input and Output Learning Objectives
    Learning Objectives • Identify several types of input and output devices and explain their functions. Chapter 5 • Describe the characteristics of the input equipment that most users encounter regularly, Input and Output namely, keyboards and pointing devices. • Explain what source data automation is and discuss how scanners and other devices can be used to accomplish it. Learning Objectives, cont’d. Overview • This chapter covers: • List several types of multimedia input devices and discuss their purposes. – Equipment designed primarily for input of • Describe the characteristics of the output equipment that programs and data into the computer most users encounter regularly, namely, display devices system, or for output, or for both. and printers. • Many other types of input/output devices • Discuss several types of multimedia output equipment. exist, but this chapter covers a good • Explain what a multifunction device is and list some sampling of the most widely used ones. advantages and disadvantages of using such a device. Input and Output Keyboards • Keyboards can differ in number of keys, key • Input devices convert data and programs that arrangement, types of special keys, and touch. people can understand into a form – QWERTY – widely used comprehensible to the CPU. – Dvorak – not used often • Output devices convert the strings of bits used • Function keys enable software packages to be by the computer back into a form that people customized to meet a user's applications needs. can understand. • The numeric keypad makes it easy to enter numbers quickly. 1 Ergonomic Keyboards • Designed to reduce or minimize repetitive strain injury of wrists – Provide more natural, comfortable position of wrists, arms, and hands Pointing Devices: Mouse • The most common pointing device – Movement on flat surface causes Common mouse movement of pointer on screen operations are clicking, • Several types scrolling, and dragging – Mechanical - small ball on underside rolls as and dropping.
    [Show full text]
  • Thinkvision T23i-10 User Guide Machine Types: 61AB
    ThinkVision T23i-10 User Guide Machine Types: 61AB Product numbers 61AB-MAR1-WW First Edition (September 2016) © Copyright Lenovo 2016. LENOVO products, data, computer software, and services have been developed exclusively at private expense and are sold to governmental entities as commercial items as defined by 48 C.F.R. 2.101 with limited and restricted rights to use, reproduction and disclosure. LIMITED AND RESTRICTED RIGHTS NOTICE: If products, data, computer software, or services are delivered pursuant a General Services Administration "GSA" contract, use, reproduction, or disclosure is subject to restrictions set forth in Contract No. GS-35F-05925. Contents Safety information ............................................................. iii General Safety guidelines. iii Chapter 1. Getting started .......................................................1-1 Shipping contents . 1-1 Notice for use . 1-2 Product overview . 1-3 Types of adjustments. 1-3 Tilt . 1-3 Swivel. 1-3 Height Adjustment . 1-4 Monitor Pivot . 1-4 Monitor controls. 1-5 Cable lock slot. 1-5 Setting up your monitor. 1-6 Connecting and turning on your monitor . 1-6 Registering your option . 1-11 Chapter 2. Adjusting and using your monitor .........................................2-1 Comfort and accessibility. 2-1 Arranging your work area . 2-1 Positioning your monitor . 2-1 Quick tips for healthy work habits . 2-2 Accessibility information . 2-2 Adjusting your monitor image . 2-3 Using the direct access controls . 2-3 Using the On-Screen Display (OSD) controls . 2-4 Selecting a supported display mode . 2-8 Understanding power management . 2-9 Caring for your monitor . 2-10 Detaching the monitor base and stand. 2-10 Wall Mounting (Optional) .
    [Show full text]
  • DIGITAL MONITOR SPEAKERS MS40/MS20 User Manual User Manual Table of Contents Thank You
    User Manual DIGITAL MONITOR SPEAKERS MS /MS 24-Bit/192 kHz Digital 40/20-Watt Stereo Near Field Monitors 2 DIGITAL MONITOR SPEAKERS MS40/MS20 User Manual User Manual Table of Contents Thank you ....................................................................... 2 Important Safety Instructions ...................................... 3 Legal Disclaimer ............................................................. 3 Limited Warranty ........................................................... 3 1. Introduction ............................................................... 4 1.1 Before getting started ....................................................... 4 1.1.1 Shipment .......................................................................... 4 1.1.2 Initial operation ............................................................. 4 1.1.3 Online registration ....................................................... 4 2. Control Elements and Connections ......................... 4 3. Wiring ......................................................................... 5 4. Specifications ............................................................. 6 Thank you Thank you very much for expressing your confidence in us by purchasing the BEHRINGER DIGITAL MONITOR SPEAKERS MS20/MS40. The MS20/MS40 are active loudspeakers that reproduce your music with highest fidelity and balance. Due to their flexible connection options, the MS20/MS40 can be used in a variety of applications, such as computer studios and audio or multimedia workstations. You can
    [Show full text]
  • Computer Fundamentals Defense Information School * 6500 Mapes Road * Fort George G
    FOCUS: Hardware Software Computer Basics Operator Level Maintenance File Management Defense Information School * 6500 Mapes Road Fort George G. Meade, Maryland 20755 Computer Fundamentals DISCLAIMER -- The following training materials were compiled from multiple referenced sources and developed into student products by the Defense Information School for the sole purpose of supporting its educational curriculum for military public affairs and visual information professionals. These documents were provided to the US Navy to support its professional education, qualification and training program for the Mass Communication Specialist community. Any further use beyond the scope outlined here or distribution beyond the Navy public affairs audience is prohibited. Table of Contents Table of Contents Hardware ................................................................ Page 3 Software ................................................................. Page 6 Computer Basics .................................................... Page 8 Operator Level Maintenance ................................ Page 3 File Management ................................................. Page 5 References ............................................................ Page 9 Page Computer Fundamentals Welcome to Computer Fundamentals. Whether you have never used a computer before or you are quite familiar with them, this section covers some basic information about computers. Hardware Computer Figure 1. Mac Workstation. When buying a computer with the intent to use it as a graphic workstation, Figures 1 and 2, there are several things to consider. The first is speed. Different computers work at different speeds. For digital graphics, you need a computer that is as fast as you can afford. You will be using files that are very large, and a slow computer may take quite a long time to accomplish normal tasks. The second is memory. Digital graphic files get large, and more memory will make even a slow computer seem as if it is Figure 2.
    [Show full text]
  • Computer Workstation Ergonomics
    Computer Workstation Ergonomics Computer Workstation Ergonomics Home Ergonomics Ohasis Home CDC Home As we spend increasing amounts of time at our computer workstation, we need to be aware of how the design and arrangement of our equipment can impact our comfort, health, and productivity. Work Area Desk/Workstation Chair Monitor Keyboard Mouse, Trackball, or Other Pointing Device Lighting Work Habits Laptop Computer Exercises Self Evaluation Ergonomic Checklist Ergonomic Chair WORK AREA The work area should be large enough to accommodate you, allow the full range of motions involved in performing required tasks, and provide room for the equipment and materials that make up the workstation. Use a headset for lengthy or frequent telephone work. Place the items you use most frequently directly in front of you. Avoid overcrowding computer work areas. Back to top DESK/WORKSTATION Standard furniture cannot accommodate everyone’s needs. A taller person may need a one-time adjustment to have his or her work surface raised somewhat; a shorter person may need a footrest or other accessories. Adjustable furniture may http://www.cdc.gov/od/ohs/ergonomics/compergo.htm[3/31/2010 9:24:55 AM] Computer Workstation Ergonomics be needed in situations where people share or use the same workstation. The desktop should be organized so that frequently used objects are close to the user to avoid excessive extended reaching. The work surface should have a matte finish to minimize glare or reflections. The area underneath the desk should always be clean/uncluttered to accommodate the user’s legs and allow for stretching. If a fixed-height desk is used, add a keyboard tray that adjusts vertically to provide added adjustability.
    [Show full text]
  • U3A in Bath Computer Forum - Glossary
    U3A in Bath Computer Forum - Glossary Introduction A glossary can't contain everything and still be short enough to be useful. If the term that's bothering you isn't here, type 'define:' followed by the term into Google's Search box. Some other useful sites are: http://www.itsafe.gov.uk/glossary.html Government website http://www.silverhairs.co.uk/glossary.htm 'Helpline for Silver Surfers' http://www.cryer.co.uk/index.htm An IT professional's hobby site http://www.geocities.com/ikind_babel/babel/babel.html Think 'Hitchhikers Guide' Babelfish http://www.jonstorm.com/glossary/ Another hobby site http://members.aol.com/shobansen3/ Computer help for people over 50 (from somebody who is, and is self-taught) Bold italic script is used to indicate words that are defined elsewhere in this glossary. Basic Terms Application A program that you start in order to do Hardware Physical parts of the computer, such as the some work. Examples of applications are word HD or motherboard. Contrast software. processors, web browsers and e-mail readers. Internet A vast global network of computer networks Applications may be installed on the computer which operates world-wide using a common before delivery but are often obtained set of communications protocols (TCP/IP) and separately and installed later. An application sharing a common addressing scheme. The makes use of features of an operating system Internet is a WAN. to print, read and write files, and access other pieces of hardware.Browser (or Web browser) Memory Internal storage areas in the computer. The A program you use to access information on term 'memory' identifies data storage that the Internet.
    [Show full text]
  • 272B7qpjeb 00 Dfu Eng.Pdf
    Brilliance 272B7 www.philips.com/welcome EN User manual 1 Customer care and warranty 25 Troubleshooting & FAQs 29 Table of Contents 1. Important ...................................... 1 1.1 Safety precautions and maintenance ................................. 1 1.2 Notational Descriptions ............ 3 1.3 Disposal of product and packing material .......................................... 4 2. Setting up the monitor .............. 5 2.1 Installation .................................... 5 2.2 Operating the monitor .............. 8 2.3 Remove the Base Assembly for VESA Mounting ...........................11 3. Image Optimization .................. 12 3.1 SmartImage .................................12 3.2 SmartContrast ............................. 13 4. PowerSensor™ ...........................14 5. Built-in Webcam with Microphone ................................16 5.1 PC system requirements .........16 5.2 Using the device .......................16 6. Daisy-chain function ................18 7. Technical Specifications .........20 7.1 Resolution & Preset Modes ... 23 8. Power Management ................ 24 9. Customer care and warranty . 25 9.1 Philips’ Flat Panel Monitors Pixel Defect Policy ....................25 9.2 Customer Care & Warranty .....28 10. Troubleshooting & FAQs .........29 10.1 Troubleshooting ........................29 10.2 General FAQs .............................30 1. Important • Remove any object that could fall 1. Important into ventilation holes or prevent proper cooling of the monitor’s This electronic user’s guide
    [Show full text]
  • Desktop & Touchscreen Instruction Manual
    GECA: Ballston Location Desktop & Touchscreen Instruction Manual Quick Reference Desktop Monitor Touchcreen Monitor Your classroom will either have a traditional computer monitor, or it may be one of three that is equipped with a Touchscreen Monitor. You may request in advance to have the Front Desk swap the traditional monitor with one of our three Touchscreen Monitors, subject to availability. The advantages of the Touchscreen Monitor include: • Write directly on the monitor screen, which shows on the video projector, without turning your back to the class. • Annotate over any image, document, web page, PowerPoint, video or running application • Save your notes in various formats, for email or printing How to Use Desktop Monitor Shake the mouse or hit the spacebar on the keyboard and the monitor will display. If it does not, check the monitor’s power light, at the far bottom right of the screen frame. If it is not on or not blinking at one second intervals, press the power button, which is on the far bottom right of the screen frame. Touchscreen Monitor Operation Mode of the Electromagnetic Pen · When the pen is used to write on the whiteboard/template, it functions as a pen, brush, or eraser depending on the selected function. · When the pen is used to press the buttons on the application software toolbar, it functions as “clicking” the buttons. · When the pen is used as a drawing tool (straight line, square, or circle), just tap the pen on the screen and drag it onto the desired location and then lift it up at the end point to create an image.
    [Show full text]