WHAT IS BRIDGING?

     Most videoconferencing calls connect point A to point B. Bridging offers the ability to conference between more than two sites simultaneously, A, B, C or more. The number of additional sites which may be added is almost unlimited, but can be accomplished only through a bridge or MCU (Multi Conferencing Unit). There are some endpoints that have basic Multipoint abilities built into them. These are typically useful when doing an immediate 2 or 3 party conference call. They do not have the same quality for feature set that large scale MCU's offer. 

     Bridging a videoconferencing call requires advanced planning, either through your organization's bridge or through an outside bridging company. Your MIS Director is a good person to help you get started, but he/she or your outside service will need some important information before you begin:

• Contact names at each site, phone number & Video number's

• Estimated testing time for the call

• What type of equipment will be used at each site?

• What speed (i.e. 2X56 , 2X64, 336 or 384) ?

• Over what type of line will you be connecting (i.e. ISDN BRI, ISDN PRI, ISDN PRI dedicated, H.323, SIP) ?

• If IP is there a firewall or NAT to go through? Verify the needed ports are open to make sure the call will connect.

     Your video conferencing call may be restricted to the lowest common speed. Your bridging service may be able to help if they operate a multi-rate option on their bridge.

            For example:

• Site A = max speed of 384kbps, minimum speed of 2X56kbps

• Site B = max speed of 384kbps, minimum speed of 2X56kbps

• Site C = max speed of 336kbps, minimum speed of 2X56kbps

• Site D = max speed of 224kbps, minimum speed of 2X56kbps

     So, the conference would be set-up at the speed of 224kbps because it is the lowest common denominator for the group. Also be aware some features such as camera control or special audio/video algorithms may not function when in a bridge call.

      Continuous Presence is also available for calls, this allow for a number of sites to be shown on the screen at one time. See a graphic of this feature below.

      Prior to a bridge call, we suggest everyone boot up their equipment 15 - 20 minutes before the conference.

For more information on Bridging or to get started call:

1-888-YES-VIDEO

or e-mail us at:

Bridging@expeditevcs.com

                           * Please Note that if you do not see a Category or Product you are looking for please contact us at 1-888-YES-VIDEO or E-mail bridging@expeditevcs.com*