I’m looking for some video conferencing suggestions. Simple is always good, and cheap is a bonus. If I need a static IP for my cameras or computer or something, that’s no problem. I need a system with two cameras, one to show the mugs of the people on my end of the conference, and another to show the contents of what might be on a table. A zoom and focus function would be great, especially if it could zoom-in with great clarity. A split screen for people on the other end might be nice, but going from one camera to the other would be okay as well. (Actually, the one pointing to the table would be the most used — probably 90 percent of the time.) I’ll have a dedicated computer and space, and a ceiling mounted projector will take the place of a monitor. The purpose is to discuss projects with clients out of state; we want to see what they have, they want to see what we have, we want to hear each other, etc.
The pretty standard stuff, I suppose, but as in most cases, I have to learn all about it as I design, install, and implement the system. What hardware, software, etc. should I consider? Brand names would be appreciated, etc. I’ve done some research and I have some ideas, but I’d like to throw the question out to some folks who’ve done it before. What pitfalls do I have to look forward to? What should I avoid? What should I be sure to consider? All the standard questions from A to Z and from the very beginning all the way to the end.
In the old days of TechRepublic, I’d assign 50,000 points to this question. Today, however, in the absence of points, I’ll give the ol’ thumbs up to any suggestions at all. In fact, not only will I give the thumbs up, but I’ll STILL give you the points. They just won’t show up anywhere, nor can they be redeemed for anything at all. In fact, you win 100 points for just reading the question!
A million thanks in advance.
