Products & Services 
Videoconferencing FAQ
With what type of equipment can the Rhode Island K-12 video sites connect?
Rhode Island's K-12 videoconferencing sites use Polycom FX equipment to connect over the Internet. They can connect with any site that uses like technology. The technology is referred to as video-over-IP, H.323 videoconferencing, IP or TCP/IP-based videoconferencing. The fastest and best connections will be with other Rhode Island school sites, OSHEAN member sites (e.g., CCRI, URI, Brown University), and any site capable of videoconferencing on Internet2. It is possible to conference with a site on the commercial Internet however the quality of the call may be severely degraded. You will need to reduce the speed of your call from 768K to 384K or lower.
How can events be recorded/captured for later use and viewing?
The Polycom unit at each site has numerous input and output capabilities. You can connect a VCR to the Polycom to videotape a session or event or you can "stream" the event. To request digital recording of an event, please contact Gordon Forman at RINET.
How can the videoconferencing equipment connect with ISDN videoconferencing
equipment?
At this point in time, bridging between IP-based sites and ISDN-based sites are handled on a case-by-case basis. Please contact Gordon Forman to discuss your specific needs.
How many sites can be connected during one videoconference?
Using the Polycom unit, a site can connect with up to three other sites. However, the speed must be decreased with each additional site.
RINET maintains a video bridge that can be used to connect up to 16 sites in a videoconference at a speed of 768K. More sites may be connected, however the speed must decrease. For more information on video bridging, contact Gordon Forman.
Can I connect to videoconferencing at my school or in my district?
Videoconferencing is available in many communities in Rhode Island. RINET is committed to helping you utilize this valuable resource in your classroom. Check this list to find a location available to you. RI K-12 Videoconferencing Contact InformationMy school has a Polycom videoconferencing ViewstationFX but I don’t know how to use it?
Videoconferencing is also available at some local colleges and universities and public libraries.
The Polycom equipment is easy to use. The Videoconferencing Guide will help you get started.I’ve heard there is an email list for teachers to share videoconferencing success stories and tips. How can I subscribe?
If you need help, contact your Local Technical Contact. If he/she cannot help, contact Gordon Forman to schedule basic, on-site videoconferencing training for teachers and media center staff.
Other Videoconferencing Resources
Send your email address to Gordon Forman and request to be added to IVID-L, the Rhode Island K-12 Videoconferencing Listserv.
