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Video Conferencing

Media Technology Services

Boston College offers video conferencing services in several locations and configurations on both the Main Campus and at the Law School on Newton Campus. Video conferencing is a cost effective way to conduct a meeting between two or more participants at different sites by using computer networks to transmit audio and video data.

To schedule a Video Conference, complete the online request form. A representative of ITS will contact you to confirm your request.

On this page:

Types of Video Conferencing   

Desktop Video Conferencing

Video Conferencing on a personal computer is most appropriate for individuals who wish to do face-to-face conferences with one other person. Please contact your Technology Consultant to schedule an appointment.  Your TC will need a couple of weeks in order to meet with you and determine the best way to create a face-to-face conference. 

Portable Video Conferencing Systems

These systems allow the user to hold a video conference in any room on campus that has network connectivity. These systems are recommended for smaller video conferences of 2-3 participants.
Services are available to Boston College faculty and staff who are utilizing the service for academic and university purposes. Video conferencing services for students wishing to participate in employment interviews are coordinated through the Boston College Career Center.

Questions Concerning Video Conferencing   

If you have any questions regarding video conferencing you may contact:

Main Campus
Darren Herlihy, Media Technology Services 617-552-2566

Newton Campus/Law School
Wayne Daley, Media Technology Services 617-552-4355

To schedule a Video Conference, complete the online request form. A representative of ITS will contact you to confirm your request.

Video Conferencing Policies   

Four weeks notice is preferred for video conferences that will require one of the dedicated Video Conferencing rooms. This advance notice allows for scheduling and time to conduct for test calls prior to the actual video conference. Information Technology Services will work hard to accommodate all requests for video conferencing services.

Requests for additional services for the video conference (catering, etc.), are the responsibility of the person or group requesting the service. Video Conference clients are responsible for providing a site coordinator to be present at the video conference to oversee registration, official greetings, and other administrative details.

Frequently Asked Questions   

Can I video conference with more than one location?   

Yes, we have systems that allow you to do a multipoint conference between more than one site.

How do I schedule a video conference?   

Fill out the online video conference request form.

What type of things can I use video conferencing for and what does it provide?   

You can retain guest lecturers without time and expense of travel, hold staff and committee meetings with associates in another office, and conduct interviews in conjunction with HR.

Can students use video conferencing?   

All of our Video Conferences are oriented around faculty and staff for the purposes of teaching, guest lecturing, meetings, or participating in conferences. If a student needs to participate in a video conference for academic purposes, this must be facilitated through the faculty member teaching their course. The Boston College Career Center is considering the purchase of a videoconferencing system for students wishing to participate in a video conference for employment interviews.

Will BC's video conference units work with the other site’s video conference unit?   

Each video conferencing system is standards-based and interoperable with most other systems. Because we comply with the ITU (International Telecommunications Union) using H.323 (IP) and H320 (ISDN), users can communicate without concern for compatibility.

Do I need to do a test call before the actual video conference?   

Most definitely. We will need to run a test with the other site at least two weeks before the actual video conference. This will ensure that there are no problems on either end.

Can I do a PowerPoint presentation or chart with video conferencing?   

One of our systems does support this function. It is very important that you follow certain guidelines when creating a presentation for a video conference. Elements such as type of font, size, and color are very important when transmitting as part of a video conference. ITS staff can give you suggestions on how to properly create your presentation.

How do I prepare if I am doing a lecture?   

Try to direct your voice toward the microphone, as the audio on the far end may vary based on the type of system being used. Tapping your fingers, shuffling papers or other background noise can be heard, so it’s essential to keep this at a minimum. Also note that there is a slight delay of approximately one second, which can take getting used to.

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What do I wear in a video conference?   

Only in extreme cases will the colors and patterns of clothing affect video reproduction. Loud and complicated patterns and colors should be avoided.

What type of equipment does Boston College use for video conferencing?   

The video conferencing System at Boston College is built around the H.323 standard for video conferencing. This standard is widely used of IP based high-quality video conferencing. The Boston College Video Conferencing System supports calls to and from other IP connected systems and to and from sites that are connected to the telephone system. A Gateway has been installed to provide the connection to the telephone system. In addition to the Gateway, Boston College has installed a Multi Conference Unit (MCU), which acts like a voice bridge and allows multiple video conferencing sites to communicate and view each other during a call.

What software is required for desktop video conferencing?   

Please contact your Technology Consultant in order to determine the best software to be used for a desktop video conference.

 

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