Video conferencing cameras
Get the lowdown on video conferencing cameras. Lots to know and consider.
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Cut back on the expense and carbon footprint of constant traveling and add another layer of interaction to your business meetings with video conferencing. Not only are these digital meetings eco-friendly, they provide a more personal way to collaborate over long distances than simply talking on the phone. This beginner's guide will help you determine which video conferencing cameras are right for you, and learn a few details that will make your virtual business meetings more successful.
There are three major types of video conferencing: desktop conferencing, small-group conferencing and large-group conferencing. Depending on your needs, your equipment may be nothing more than a webcam and a headset or could be as complicated as a television broadcast, with several high-quality cameras.
Single-User Desktop Video Conferencing
When you're first starting out with video conferencing, if you're just using it for informal purposes like communicating with colleagues every now and then, you might not need anything more complex than a webcam and a video-enabled instant messaging system like Skype. These basic video conferencing tools will not offer the professional feel that may be desired for communications with critical customers or other parties, but it will allow you to see the person you're speaking with.
Webcams range from built-in cameras in laptops to high-definition video conferencing cameras with a 1280x720 pixel resolution and 30 frames per second, like the FREETALK by Everyman HD. Many webcams have built-in microphones, but you can always purchase a headset to improve sound quality.
Free programs that support video chat include the previously mentioned Skype, Apple's iChat, Windows Live Messenger, Yahoo Messenger and AOL Instant Messenger. Many of these programs offer special effects like video backdrops, and some can capture video of chats for later playback.
Video Conferencing for Small Businesses
Recent advances in technology have dramatically improved image quality, and modern video conferencing cameras make virtual meetings an efficient option for small groups and crucial communications. These group video conferencing solutions go beyond consumer-level video-calling services to offer HD-quality video, desktop views, whiteboard sharing, slideshows and other options that enable all the same interactions as a face-to-face conference.
For small-group interactions, video conferencing cameras used in conjunction with desktop computers may be enough. Monthly paid services like A+ Conferencing allow unlimited video interactions between up to five people, and are used in conjunction with a high-quality webcam. Logitech's SightSpeed offers no-sweat solutions for up to 50 people. PGi’s iMeet lets you connect with up to 15 other people at a time.
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