A new set of video conferencing facility has been set up in the meeting room Rm7341 during this summer. With this new facility, units in the University can arrange moderate-size video conference sessions (10 – 15 persons) so as to hold meetings and small conferences with local and overseas partners in a more efficient and economical way.

The new video conferencing facility supports both Internet and ISDN connection methods. Internet connection does not incur a usage charge and provides more bandwidth than ISDN. More bandwidth usually translates to better video and audio quality. However, the stability would have to depend on the current traffic condition of the Internet.

On the other hand, ISDN connection is more or less like IDD telephone call, and incurs a usage fee. Its bandwidth is fixed and usually less than the Internet. However, it stability is well guaranteed by the telephone service provider. Event holders can select their connection method base on their budget, session quality and stability requirement.

The room is also enhanced with an advanced audio pickup system. Namely, "suspended microphones" (those hanging from the ceiling) are installed to ensure a good audio signal can be picked up from every corner of the room and ensure the voice of every participant can be heard clearly on the remote side of the video conference.

Apart from video conferencing, we have also taken this opportunity to re-ramp the AV setup of this meeting room. This includes:

• A High Definition video projection screen and a LCD display panel for displaying both the remote side video and any embedded PC presentation
• Support of HDMI and Display Port connection from modern notebook computers (e.g. MacBook)
• A blue-ray & DVD disk player

ITSC is planning to arrange briefing sessions for coordinators in departments about this new facility. Colleagues interested in this new facility are welcome to join.