Videoconferencing
Command 360 supports videoconferencing systems implemented with either software-based codecs or dedicated hardware codecs.
At a high level:
Software codec designs are typically more flexible and cost-effective
Hardware codec designs generally offer stronger security
Common Videoconferencing Architecture Elements
Regardless of codec type, Command 360 videoconferencing designs typically include the following functional components:
Cameras (fixed or PTZ)
Microphones and loudspeakers
An audio DSP
Display devices
Video Processor
Audio Considerations for Soft and Hard Codecs
Microphones that are used in videoconferencing should connect to DSP inputs that have AEC (Automatic Echo Cancelation). Other audio sources intended for the local speakers and/or the remote participants would be sent to non-AEC inputs on the DSP.
If ceiling microphones are to be used, Beam-Forming Array microphones work considerably better than microphones with a fixed polar pattern. Ceiling microphones do not work well for sound reinforcement (Public Address).
Video Signal Flow and Screen Sharing
The laptop or PC serves as a smart device when running software such as Zoom or Microsoft Teams in that it normally sends camera video and conversational audio to the far side, sends far side audio to the local speakers, and sends far side video to the local display. When the ‘Share Screen’ option is selected, laptop or PC video is sent to the distant participants.
Depending on the software, it may or may not send audio playback from the laptop to the distant participants. Not all Conference Bridges work with Microsoft Teams and Zoom software, so research this before deciding on the complement of components.
Camera Control
If multiple cameras are used, an external switcher can select which view is sent to the distant participants. Alternately, multiple cameras could connect to the Alpha and the user interface on the Alpha could select cameras during a videoconference.
For reasons of latency, with both hard of soft CODECs, HDbT extenders are better than encoders that use interframe compression if video signals need to be extended.
System Diagrams: