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Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences |
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Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences |
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A wide variety of videoconference equipment is available for administrative, extension and
research related activities. A few specific products have been evaluated
and singled out for approval to narrow the selection and simplify the decision making
process. Depending on your specific needs, the following products are currently
recommended to take best advantage of Internet connectivity and compatibility
with the growing number of videoconference units within IFAS. Desktop Unit
The Polycom PVX software is
recommended The ViaVideo product is still available but not recommended for purchase. It is intended for use on a PC with a slower processor. The video processing is done within the unit and does not burden down the PC. As such, it does not support the new H.264 video and Siren 14 audio compression. It will work with the new PVX software but only uses the embedded H.263 video compression. The price is also much higher at $599 list price (education at ~$450).
Conference Room Units Any of the VSX 7xxx series or VSX 6000 systems will provide the basic videoconferencing functionality for a conference room environment. They all function as standalone units that can interact with most other videoconference units on the Internet. They can also utilize the UF Radvision bridge and gateway for video support and additional services.
The Polycom VSX 7800s is
recommended Other VSX models should be considered if the available Internet connectivity speed is less than a dedicated, full bandwidth T-1 data line. A VSX 7400s would be a better choice for either a cable or DSL business class connection with a minimum of 384 Kbps upload speed but preferred 512 Kbps upload speed. If needed, the VSX 7400s can be easily upgraded to a VSX 7800s model, that activates an MCU for multiple connections, when the internet bandwidth is increased to full T-1 speed.
NOTE
- All educational prices listed are approximate values and may vary slightly
at time of purchase. Contact IFAS Information Technology to obtain current
price quote. An alternate configuration is also available that provides flexibility in room layout. The VSX 7x00e model separates the camera from the control box. This is an option when installing a system in a larger conference room and using video projection systems and/or flat panel video screens.
A high-end model is also available and recommended for sites that want maximum flexibility and functionality. The VSX 8800 has a separate control box, data sharing and a 6-port MCU for connections up to 5 remote sites. Optional equipment can be added as needed, such as 2nd camera, audio conference unit, 2nd monitor, etc...
AUDIO CONFERENCE - An option to consider when purchasing one of the Polycom VSX videoconference units is the VTX 1000 audio conference units. It can be purchased with the video unit (VSX 7400, VSX 8400 or VSX 8000) for about an additional $800, and replaces (or in addition to) the smaller VSX microphone and can also be used separately for audio-only meetings. Contact IFAS IT if interested in this or other options. PURCHASING - Polycom is a state contract vendor. The Florida State Contract #250-000-03-1 includes a price list for a variety of Polycom products that reflect a discount of about 1-5%. Calling the Polycom Authorized Resellers listed in the contract may get you a better price. The estimated education prices listed above reflects the lowest quoted prices that have been received as of June, 2006. If interested in purchasing a Polycom system, contact IFAS Information Technology for help with the latest pricing. When selecting a videoconference system, it is usually best to purchase the unit with a standard configuration that includes all the features that will be needed. While a VSX 7000 unit can be upgraded at a later date to include the other options, the price difference may be significant. If the options are added later as an upgrade, the prices for the upgrade components may only be discounted at a much lower rate. Plan ahead and save money. SUPPORT - Contact the IFAS Information Technology Help Desk (392-4636) if you need additional information or a demonstration of recommended Polycom units. We can help with selection, purchasing, equipment setup, installation, configuration and/or training.
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Last updated on
June 09, 2008
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| IFAS videoconference
Table of Content
From the notebook of
Thomas Hintz |
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