Before Using Live Video Conferencing

Step 1

Test the UPLOAD speed of your Internet connection.

Using a computer or Internet connection that does not meet the minimum requirements may produce audio break-up and poor video quality.

The upload speed determines which screen size and frames per second you can use.

UPLOAD - how fast content is delivered from your computer to others.
DOWNLOAD - how fast your connection delivers content to your computer.

Test your upload Internet speed click Begin Test button below, when testing is complete, compare your UPLOAD and DOWNLOAD speeds to the Live Video Conferencing options you want to use.

The bandwidth requirements for the various screen sizes and frame rates ate listed below.

Important Notes:

• The download speed provided by most IPS's is usually 3 to 4 times faster than the upload speed. Example - a 1.5mb DSL or Cable Internet connection could mean the upload speed (used to broadcast your video stream), could be only 256 Kbps. Your upload and download speed can also be affected by the number of other people sharing the same Internet connection.
   

• If anyone in the room experiences audio break-up, the person broadcasting video should either stop broadcasting live video or select a lower frame rate and/or smaller screen size.
   

• In a live meeting, a Guest with a slower connection may choose to receive just the audio by clicking the Tools/Features button, and then select Co-Browser from the menu. If the Operator's video appears in the upper right corner of the meeting room, a Guest can disable that incoming stream by right-clicking on the video, and then select 'Disable Operator Video' from the menu.

Computer (Hardware) Requirements

Microprocessor (CPU): 2.6 GHz processor or faster
Memory (RAM): 1 GB or more

Internet Connection, Bandwidth Requirements

176 x 144 screen size

Example: An UPLOAD speed of 430 Kbps is required in order to broadcast your live video using the 176 x 144 screen size and at a frame rate of 10 FPS.

352 x 288 screen size

Example: An UPLOAD speed of 507 Kbps is required in order to broadcast your live video using the 352 x 288 screen size and at a frame rate of 10 FPS.

640 x 480 screen size

Example: An UPLOAD speed of 517 Kbps is required in order to broadcast your live video using the 640 x 480 screen size and at a frame rate of 10 FPS.

Step 2

Bandwidth efficiency tips, and how to create a white background.

Using a light background reduces the amount of bandwidth required when broadcasting video, and requires less processing from the webcam. A well-lite room produces the best quality image. Dark backgrounds and poorly-lite rooms require more bandwidth and place a higher demand on the webcam. This often results in poor image quality and requires a faster Internet connection for those receiving the broadcast.