Videoconference FAQ
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What is videoconferencing?
Videoconferencing is a real-time communication medium that connects participants in multiple physical locations, utilizing both their visual image and spoken word. Each room location (known as an "endpoint") is equipped with a camera, microphone, monitor and signal management device (known as a "CODEC"). Video "calls" are connected over either traditional telecommunication or broadband networks. Calls can be made between two locations ("Point-to-Point Call") or multiple (three or more) locations, known as a "Multipoint Call."
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What is a video bridge, gateway and gatekeeper?
A video bridge also known as a “Multipoint Control Unit” (MCU), is a network component that allows members to schedule a multi-point call when three or more sites wish to hold a videoconference. A gateway is a network component that provides the protocol translation between differing end point conference protocols (i.e., H.323 to H.320). A gatekeeper is a network component that provides Call Admission Control and translation services of an end point (i.e.-IP addresses to E.164 IDs). A gatekeeper can also deny access or limit the number of simultaneous connections to prevent network congestion.
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What are some common applications for videoconferencing?
There are a number of applications for videoconferencing, which include, but are not limited to:
- Administrative and Curriculum Meetings
- Telemedicine
- Distance Learning Courses
- Professional Development
- Technical Training
- Student Collaborative Projects
- Community Relations
- Demonstrations
- Employee Interviews
- Project Management
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Who can use videoconference services?
Any staff, faculty or administrator of Ohio’s K-12 school districts, colleges and universities, educational service providers, content providers, public television stations and state agencies, departments, boards and commissions are eligible for these services.
Ohio K-12 network members must be connected to the eTech video network via one of the approved connectivity models. Other members may be connected to the eTech video network through the most economically, and technically feasible method – and will be determined on an individual case basis. These connections may include a one-time, and or recurring service charge.
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How do I schedule a videoconference?
Step 1: Locate a Video Room
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The First Step in scheduling a conference starts with locating a video room(s) to use in your conference.
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A complete, "searchable" list of video rooms is available by using Room Finder. This web-based tool has been developed to assist with locating sites, room features and site contact information.
Step 2: Approval to Use a Video Room
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Once the scheduler has located a video room(s) and room contact, the scheduler needs to obtain approval from the room contact to use the "physical" site itself on the day of the conference. NOTE: TC Reliance does not schedule the "physical" room itself. It only schedules the videoconference system (if available) located in a video room.
Step 3: Schedule the Video Room
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After completing Steps 1 and 2, the scheduler can now proceed with using TC Reliance to reserve conference resources (e.g. video systems, video bridges, gateways, ports, etc.) exclusively for the date and time of your conference.
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Upon completion of scheduling/validating a conference, TC Reliance automatically send email confirmations to the scheduler and all participating room contacts notifying them of the conference request.
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Modifications/Cancellations can be made by the scheduler up to 24 hours prior to the start of a scheduled conference using TC Reliance. If changes must be made within 24 hours, the scheduler must contact the eTech Ohio VNOC to request changes.
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How much notice should be given to schedule a conference?
Conferences must be scheduled using the TC Reliance no later than 24 hours prior to the scheduled start of a videoconference. All scheduled conferences will be confirmed via email through the TC Reliance. To schedule conferences with less than 24-hour notice, members must call the eTech Ohio VNOC at 877-843-3640 or 614-485-6640. Resources are subject to availability.
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Who can I get help if there is a technical problem during a conference?
The eTech Ohio VNOC provides conference management and help desk for video network members which is manned during all video connections. You can contact the help line by dialing 1-877-843-3640 or 614-485-6640 or email videosupport@etech.ohio.gov.
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Are there charges to use Videoconferencing Services?
Videoconference Services are made available to Ohio K-12 School Districts, Ohio Educational Service Providers and Ohio Content Providers at no cost. Connections to sites outside of the Ohio K-12 Network using ISDN PRI gateway services, satellite uplinks or downlinks, or other additional services may incur fee-based service charges.
Videoconference Services are made available to Ohio Institutions of Higher Education and State of Government based on membership rates and fees. See Rates & Fees for further information or contact the eTech Ohio VNOC at 1-877-843-3640 or 614-485-6640 or email etechvideoadmin@etech.ohio.gov.
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How do I join eTech Ohio's Videoconferencing Services?
To become a member, eligible applicants must establish a Videoconference Service Account and register each videoconference endpoint with eTech Ohio. See Applying for Membership for more information or contact the eTech Ohio VNOC at 1-877-843-3640 or 614-485-6640 or email videoadminsupport@etech.ohio.gov.
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I am with a private company and would like to use the Videoconferencing Services for a meeting for my business. May I do this?
No, the eTech Ohio’s Videoconference Services were created to serve the needs of its members only. eTech Ohio is not permitted to sell time on the network.
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Can I videotape classes or meetings that I participate in over the network?
Yes, one can videotape classes or meetings with the expressed consent of all of the attendees prior to taping the video connection.
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Are TC Reliance Reservation System training available for members?
eTech Ohio has developed a TC Reliance Reservation System tutorial for members. Access the TC Reliance Training Tutorial. There are also other network members available to provide you with information about training or content upon request. For more information, contact the eTech Ohio VNOC at 1-877-843-3640 or 614-485-6640 or email videoadminsupport@etech.ohio.gov.