Video conferencing

Currently, the only video conferencing service available to schools is via the Integrated Services Digital Network (ISDN) provided through Telstra in much the same way as a telephone service. Customers pay for installation and access to special telephone lines that connect into your video conferencing equipment and you simply dial other video conferencing sites in much the same way as you would make a telephone call. This service costs approximately $60 a month to rent an ISDN line. To achieve a good quality picture requires three (3) lines.  In addition to the $180 rental per month (3 lines), use of the service is then charged on a time basis. Typical costs for an hour conference can range from $80 to $180 depending on the locations between sites as the charges are based on a similar system to STD distance charges for phones.

Future developments

IP-based technologies are quickly replacing ISDN services. These types of connections use ADSL /broadband-type connections similar to the Internet. These services are likely to have a fixed cost per month for unlimited access. While no accurate figures can be provided at present it is envisaged that cost could be $250 to $500 per month.

Multi-point video conferencing (i.e. three or more sites on-line at once) can be achieved by connecting to a bridge which would most likely be located centrally by the provider of the service. Use of this bridge would most likely incur an additional (small) extra charge.

Equipment required

• A camera and conferencing unit (these are usually integrated into a single box)
• A large screen (TV) monitor (Flat screen plasma or LCD is recommended)
• Desktop microphone/s (one is usually provided with the unit but you can purchase additional as required)

Costs of equipment will vary (especially with the TV monitor you choose) from $8000 to $14 000.

Officers within the Learning Place can advise you on models and options.