Multipoint Video Conferencing Simplified

In contrast with point to point videoconferencing, this particular type of video conferencing makes communication possible not only between two isolated places, but it connects and sends audio visual messages to more than two isolated points at the same time.

This is made possible by MCU, initials for multipoint control unit. MCU links calls from three or more points all at the same time. The parties involved can call the mcu or vice versa. Some Multipoint control unit is available through software only, while some are combined software and hardware. That is, some mcu can stand alone while some needs to be fixed on a dedicated vtc.

Multipoint control unit is exemplified in accordance to the following:

• The capacity to carry out transposing procedure and data rates.
• Simultaneous appearance of a number of parties on the screen. This is technically termed as continuous presence.
• How many calls it can handle all at the same time.

Multi User Video Conferencing Advanced Systems

Advanced systems can accomplish multi conferencing without multipoint control unit. This is made possible by decentralized multipoint. With this method, the parties involved connect and transmit audio and video straight to the other parties. There are some advantages with this method such as:

• Superior quality of audio and video as it goes straight to the receiver.
• Accessibility of multipoint video conferencing.
• Convenience and ease of use.

How multipoint video conference is made possible:

First, to link more than two points or stations simultaneously, a bridge is needed, that is the MCU (already defined above). MCU is necessary to connect to the internet and to register to a gatekeeper.
Second, determine the capacity of the MCU whether it is capable of handling multiple video conferences all at the same time. Consider also its continuous presence.

Third, clients or users dial the password combination or service number of a specific video conference meeting. After which, the gatekeeper will make certain that the requested service is registered by a multipoint control unit. If the service is duly registered, the gatekeeper connects the user to the requested video conference on the multipoint control unit.

Fourth, after connecting the call, the user’s video and audio stream will be sent over internet from the user to the multipoint control unit. The same process is done to the other users requesting to join the session. The selected video and audio on the video conference is then passed on to the other users except of course for the recipient.

How the Multiparty Video Conferencing control unit select from the video/audio stream

First, there are quite a few options or methods to choose from. The most common, however is the audio switching. With this method, the party or user who is talking (or the party who has the loudest voice) is chosen.

Second, they capture the MCU if the client stops talking and the other party starts to talk. This procedure is also done with the video from the newly chosen point and is again sent to all the parties involved in the conference.

Multipoint video conference is used by most companies requiring more than two people or entities to complete a transaction.