Services

Consider web or video conferencing when you need to share or show computerized material or see people as well as talk to them.

Web conferencing (collaborating online in real time)

Web conferencing is useful for real-time sharing of computer content, like a spreadsheet, with multiple people while simultaneously conducting an audio conference with them. The focus is on sharing content unlike video conferencing, where the focus is on people, or telephone conferencing, where the focus is on voice. Web conferencing lends itself to application sharing, white boarding, and file markup.  CIT supports web conferencing via Adobe Connect:

Note: It is a good idea to discuss options with your local technical support provider before contacting CIT for assistance with Adobe Connect.

• For business use of Adobe Connect, contact CIT’s Video Collaboration Services for set up and support (fee-based service):

• 607.255.2345
• cit-av@cornell.edu
• http://www2.cit.cornell.edu/services/av/services.html

• There is no fee for academic use of Adobe Connect. To schedule a Connect session, send email to atc_support @cornell.edu. CIT’s Faculty Support team will set up the session for faculty and students.

Video conferencing (meeting face-to-face online in real time)

Video conferencing is useful for meeting face-to-face online with others. The focus is on high quality audio and video of people. You can share desktop images through desktop video conferencing but web conferencing is more suited for that purpose.

The desktop video conferencing technology that you will need to video conference from home changes frequently. The best idea is to first discuss options with your local technical support provider and then, if appropriate, contact CIT’s Video Collaboration Services for currently recommended services:

• 607.255.2345
• cit-av@cornell.edu

As of this writing CIT recommends the following desktop video conference services. They run the same protocols (H.323 or SIP) as Cornell’s multi-point video conference system; by using these services you can participate in a large video conference originating from Cornell as well conduct one-on-one videoconferencing with others.

• Windows: PolyCom PVX (fee-based)
  • Free trial download: http://www.polycom.com/products/telepresence_video/video_conference_systems/personal_systems/pvx.html
• Mac: XMeeting
  

Note: PolyCom PVX must be purchased through an authorized reseller such as IVCi or PicturePhone. CIT can help you with contact information if necessary.

Multi-point video conferencing (meeting or presenting in real time with many people)

Multi-point video conferencing is useful for meeting face-to face online with many other people. The focus is on high quality audio and video of the meeting participants. The service is fee based.

• CIT can bridge (connect) up to 20 sites
• To participate from home using desktop video conferencing you have to run the same protocols (H.323 or SIP). Use the services recommended above.
• In a campus emergency that results in many employees working from home, CIT can help you meet with multiple people by setting up a video conference with people equipped with Cornell-compatible desktop video conferencing systems or with Cornell conference rooms equipped for video conferencing.
• To set up a multi-point video conference at any time, contact CIT Video Collaboration Services:

• 607.255.2345
• cit-av@cornell.edu  

There are numerous online services, some free, for meeting and collaborating with others in real time. CIT supports only those services and systems listed above. You may locate another service that meets your needs, but if you need to conference with members of the Cornell community, and you need assistance doing so, using recommended and supported services is your best bet.