Video Conferencing Services

Quick Links:

WebEx: brownmeetings.webex.com and select Request a host account

Polycom: online form

What is Video Conferencing?

Video Conferencing is a collaborative communication tool which allows several individuals or groups to communicate in real time across distances using the data network to transfer packets containing audio and video. Video teleconferencing uses the voice network for this same purpose.

The centralized videoconferencing service offered by CIS is geared towards general meetings, presentations, interviews and/or project work sessions.

Video Conferencing Consultation

CIS offers several options for video conferencing. As part of this service, CIS will consult with you to determine which option will fit your needs. Once a solution has been proposed, CIS will provide a demonstration and basic training of the technology.

What type of service is provided at Brown?

CIS provides several different options for different type of Video Conferencing. These types include:

Polycom Video Conferencing (IP H.323 Based)

CIS Manages a facility in the CIT building where IP based video conferences can be done. Capabilities on this room include:

  • 2 installed HD cameras
  • Data projector
  • Plasma TV screen
  • DVD Recording
  • Computer inputs for laptops
  • Installed video conference phone for audio participation
  • Support multipoint conferences (calls to several different sites) via Polycom
  • ISDN conference support via Polycom

This setup is geared toward Polycom to Polycom video conferences or conferences requiring multiple attendees or multiple locations. To request this room/service, please complete the online form. All requests must be received 10 days in advance. All requests received fewer than 10 days in advance may be declined or subject to fees.

Polycom Desktop Video Conferencing (IP H.323 Based)

CIS manages a local desktop application which permits end users to call or connect to an IP based video conference from their local machine. This application requires a local web cam, as well as an account on the server. This application will only work off campus by using the VPN client. To request an account and application, email Video_Conferencing@brown.edu. All requests must be received 10 days in advanced.

WebEx Desktop Video Conferencing

CIS offers WebEx as a service to faculty and staff. Webex is similar to Adobe Connect/Skype and will permit for you to create a virtual meeting and invite people to the meeting. This application allows desktop and application sharing for demonstrations including such programs as PowerPoint. This application is installed on your local machine and is completely scheduled and run by you. To request your account, to setup a meeting or for training visit brownmeetings.webex.com and select Request a host account on the top left of the screen. All requests must be received 7 business days in advanced.

Please Note: Recording service is currently NOT a service that CIS subscribes to as part of WebEx. Though there is limited recording space and a Record button, it is not a service which should be used or relied upon.

Video conferencing service to all Brown University departments, as well as groups affiliated with the University, for University business purposes.

Where can I do video conferencing?

CIS supported video conferences are scheduled in the CIT Building. There are many departments which own their own video conferencing hardware, CIS does not support nor maintain these setups.

What technical support is provided? Is there a fee?

CIT video conferencing room

CIS will, during business hours:

  • Provide initial test call to the outside party (limited to 30 minutes)
  • Be present at the start of your conference to ensure connection

CIT Desktop Conferencing

CIS will, during business hours:

  • Provide a 30 minute demo/training of software
  • Assist with the installation of client software on your machine
  • Create your account on the server

Certain fees may apply to events held outside of business hours, events not held in the CIT Video Conferencing Studio, for Brown affiliates or for those requiring a technician beyond the initial setup. Fees are $75/hr during business hours and $125/hr for non-business hour events. Fees are for technical support.

Rental laptops and Webcams are available at the Services window in the CIT lobby. To request these devices, send email to Video_Conferencing@brown.edu. All requests must be received 7 business days in advance.

What am I responsible for?

Users are responsible for:

  • Ensuring other parties have H.323 (Polycom) video conference capabilities at the remote site.
  • Coordinating the conference with the other conference participants.
  • Completing the request form above more than 10 days in advance.
  • Coordinating the conference with the other conference participants.
  • Providing contact information for the other party including phone, name and IP address of the remote unit.
  • Arranging for any other required Brown services such as food from Dining Services or additional equipment through Media Technology Services.
  • Attending a short training session prior to the videoconference

Location of Polycom Systems on Campus:

  • Applied Math - 180 George St
  • BioMed - Sidney Frank Hall
  • CIS - Watson CIT210
  • CIS - 169 Angell
  • CIS - Davol Square
  • Computer Science - Watson CIT241
  • Continuing Ed - 101 Thayer St - VGQ
  • Geo Sciences - Lincoln Field House
  • Investments - 121 South Main St
  • Pembroke - Cogut Ctr - Pembroke Hall
  • Physics - B&H Conference Room
  • Watson Institute - 111 Thayer St

How do I get more information?

If you have questions about videoconferencing, please send email to Video_Conferencing@brown.edu.

What are other alternatives?

Many other video and web conferencing alternatives exist which you may wish to explore. These services, though, are not supported by Brown CIS staff, include:.