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Group Video Collaboration

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rathjen_casestudy2ARCS offers a large-format video collaboration system based on Access Grid.  The solution enables communication among dispersed groups and allows group-to-group and multi-group two-way video and sound. Meetings can be between two locations – or can have more than a dozen different sites attending.

Access Grid’s large-scale capability differs from the EVO@AU desktop system, which is very convenient for individual communication. While Access Grid can be used on a personal basis, it is particularly well-suited to larger installations requiring more advanced audio/video capabilities that are needed for large groups.

System benefits include:

  • Audio control includes a mixer for balancing sound levels amongst meeting participants
  • Video and audio services are highly configurable, allowing rapid switching between optimal configurations for different usage requirements
  • Network traffic can make use of multicast capability (or unicast)
  • Connection to EVO-based facilities is available via a communications bridge
  • Desktop Streaming allows sharing of presentations, documents, web pages and computer program displays for enhanced collaboration
  • Shared files for easy data transmission during a meeting
  • Shared control via virtual network computing
  • Text chat within a meeting for instant written communication
  • Configurable for low-bandwidth use
  • Remote maintenance of operations

Requirements
Most modern hardware should perform adequately for a modest Access Grid node, such as a single- or few-user installation, where a single high-grade machine may prove sufficient. As with many applications which involve video acquisition and display, the more RAM and the higher grade the machine's video card/s, the better. For larger room sizes- which may require multiple cameras and microphones, as well as three (or more) displays- it is recommended to use multiple machines to take care of the displays and audio and video capture services.

ARCS can provide assistance with discussing, specifying and installing Access Grid systems.

Training
Weekly Test Sessions are held Mondays at 11 a.m. Queensland time in the EVO-AG Test Room. Assistance is available during this time to help users test their set ups, learn about Access Grid (and interoperability) features, and discuss any problems that may be experienced.

Known Issues
There are issues with Mac OS audio for Access Grid. This requires development work for rectification. We will update you on this when additional information becomes available.