Videoconferencing
Overview
Videoconferencing allows for interactive communication between distant participants. Using cameras, monitors, and codecs, participants can see and hear each other and share documents in real time. UTN’s videoconferencing services are used primarily for patient care, educational programs, and meetings, but also support ad hoc events such as job interviews, dissertations, and depositions.
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Services
UTN is proud of our commitment to customer service. We excel at allowing our users to focus on their meetings and not worry about the technology by taking care of the following key areas.
Getting started
UTN welcomes the opportunity to introduce videoconferencing to interested individuals and organizations. We can provide overviews of the technology, options for equipment, and demonstrations. UTN will advise on equipment selection and room layout to ensure that the technology is appropriate for the need.
Online scheduling and events calendar through UTED©
Scheduling can also be done over the phone. The online events calendar can be viewed by the day, week, or month, with detail available by clicking on an event.
Pre-conference testing
Pre-conference testing and practice runs ensure that sites and key participants are ready.
Conference set-up
All calls are launched 30 minutes in advance to give participating systems to be connected prior to the conference start-time.
Real time support by UTN staff
Technical support and “just in time training” is provided for participants before and during the conferences via the phone.
Advanced technical support
UTN provides Tier 1 and Tier 2 technical support, trouble-shooting advanced problems with videoconferencing systems. UTN will also advise with the design and assist with the setup for advanced videoconferencing applications.
Vendor service agreements
For videoconferencing equipment under vendor maintenance through UTN, UTN will liaise and coordinate troubleshooting with vendors; upgrade software and hardware as covered under vendor agreements.
Equipment
There are four classes of end user equipment currently used on the Utah Telehealth Network. The majority of endpoints used Polycom models although UTN can support endpoints from all major vendors including Tandberg, Lifesize, Radvision and Sony.
| Room System | Desktop System | PC System | Mobile System |
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Desktop systems typically reside on a desk and are intended for one or two users. These systems feature a camera which is usually fixed.
PC systems are software applications that run on a PC or Mac. They operate in conjunction with a built in or externally mounted webcam.
Mobile systems are typically made up of a room system that has been mounted to a cart and can be moved easily.
Support
UTN provides Tier 1 & 2 videoconferencing support to its members. Membership includes maintenance on videoconference systems installed at member sites. UTN coordinates and works with the vendor to rectify problems in a timely manner or replace systems in the event of a total failure.
contact
For more information or support, contact the UTN Videoconferencing Coordinator.
