FAQs
Q1: What is videoconferencing?
A1: Videoconferencing is a real-time communication medium
that connects participants in multiple physical locations, utilizing
both their visual image and spoken word. Each location (known
as "endpoints") is equipped with a camera, microphone,
monitor, and signal management device (known as a "CODEC").
Video "calls" are connected over either traditional
telecommunication or broadband networks. Calls can be made between
two locations ("Point to Point Call") or multiple (three
or more) locations, known as a "Multipoint Call".
Q2: What are some common applications video conferencing?
A2: There are a number of applications for video conferencing,
which include, but are not limited to:
- Administrative and curriculum meetings
- Telemedicine
- Distance Learning Courses
- Professional Development
- Technical Training
- Student collaborative projects
- Community relations
- Demonstrations
- Employee Interviews
- Project management
Q3: Who can use video conference services?
A3: Any staff, faculty or administrator of all state government,
Higher Education, and community organizations
that are active members of the State of Ohio's video network.
This includes H.320 and H.323 (IP) sites.
Q4: How do I schedule a video conference?
A4: When beginning to plan for a video conference, you
first need to contact the site coordinators of each site you plan
to use and obtain approval for use of the physical site itself,
before scheduling video bridge resources from Unified Network Services
Video.
A searchable database of active members of the State of Ohio's
video network that includes site coordinator contact information
can be found in the TCReliance.
Then you can use your TCReliance to schedule a video conference
online. To learn how to use TCReliance go to the User
Manual.
Q5: How much notice should be given to Unified Network Services Video
to schedule a conference?
A5: The Unified Network Services Video scheduling office requests
24 working hours notice for conference. If you are unable to provide
this much notice please contact the scheduling office to determine
network availability at the requested time.
Scheduling can be done in real-time by members using Unified Network Services
Video TCReliance Web reservation system.
Q6: How can I get help if there is a technical problem during
a conference?
A6: Unified Network Services Video operates a help line for network
users, which is manned during all video connections. You can contact
the help line by dialing 1-800-644-0701 or 614-644-0701.
Q7: Are there charges to use OIT Telecom Video services?
A7: Member usage costs for scheduling and bridging services
for active members of the State of Ohio video network are free.
Connections to sites outside of the network, satellite uplinks
or downlinks, or other additional services may incur charges.
Contact the Unified Network Services Video office if you have questions
about connection charges for a specific meeting.
Q8: How can I join OIT Telecom Video?
A8: For more information about Unified Network Services Video Services,
e-mail: video@ohio.gov or call 1-800-644-0701 or 614-644-0701.
Q9: I am with a private company and would like to use Unified Network Services Video for a meeting for my business. May I do this?
A9: The answer is no. The Unified Network Services Video was created
to serve the needs of it's members only. Unified Network Services Video
cannot sell time on the network.
Q10: Can I videotape classes or meetings that I participate
in over the network?
A10: You can, but you should obtain permission of all attendees
before taping any video connection.