Specifications

VIRTU
INTRODUCTION AND OVERVIEW
52 | CANADA CONFERENCE
To help simulate a more natural face-to-face meeting, it is typical to employ the use of two
monitors in a videoconferencing room. The use of two monitors allows the participants to view
not only those positioned off-site, but themselves. By placing these monitors side by side a
focal point is created that keeps the group’s attention.
To have all the participants focused on one point in the room is key. This allows for the
camera to capture the faces of the assembled group. Face time is essential in
videoconferencing so the speaker can be easily identified. Aside from simulating a natural
“physical” environment it also keeps the pace of the conversation moving forward and
eliminates the need for disruptive introductions throughout the conference.
The room’s focal point should be the storage unit positioned at the head of the conference
table. This unit should be able to house one or two monitors side by side and have a shelf
above for the camera and speakers. To support these components, a PC is usually dedicated to
the room to coordinate and document the meetings. Therefore, a well-ventilated storage unit
that is high enough to position the camera correctly is as important as the technology itself.
To prevent poor visual tones the surroundings of the participants should be darker than they
are. Darker finishes on the table and other furnishings will allow the camera to be more
effective; walls should be neutral. Fluorescent lighting creates hot spots, so use incandescent
lighting whenever possible. Furthermore, glare and reflections from windows and glass frames
throw the image off. The room should have dark blinds for all windows; glass surfaces (dry
erase boards, framed pictures) should be situated on side walls rather than the background.
AUDIO COMPONENTS
The audio portion of videoconferencing is comprised of two physical components: the
microphone and speakers. The microphone picks up the voices of the participants and should
be placed an equal distance from all group members to prevent a dominant voice from
overwhelming the meeting. Tabletop microphones are the most common and can be easily
moved to accommodate the number of participants in each meeting. Some form of surface
wire management should be in place to facilitate the installation and removal of the
microphone.
To eliminate sound distortion and echo, the conference room should have soft furnishings such
as: upholstered seating
, carpeting and ceiling tiles. Plastic and mesh chairs reduce acoustical
quality and range. Acoustical panels are also suggested for rooms in constant use. The
location of the room is also important. The ideal room is not located near a main thoroughfare
where people will often stop and chat, creating unnecessary background noise. Moreover, all
air ducts should be well insulated to avoid “white noise.”
EFFECTIVE MARCH 1, 2008 A PRICE INCREASE OF 5% WILL APPLY TO ALL PRODUCTS IN THIS PRICE LIST