Totally agree, you need to use a more powerful CPU and a decent webcam, I think smartphone is simply not enough for such purposes.
BTW, Zoom currently provides maximum HD resolution, 1080p is limited availability for Business and Enterprise plans only, so for better resolution and frame rate you need to look at other apps. For example, TrueConf can do 4K video calls.
If you want a ready-for-use product that doesn’t need any in-house development, I’d suggest TrueConf. It also supports plenty of features specifically designed for distance learning, e.g., conference recording, slideshow, and video lecture mode. To work offline and in private networks, you'll need to buy the full version, but you can get a free three-week trial.
Pretty sure Microsoft Teams does not allow you to mute participants just for yourself. If you mute someone, they become muted for everyone else.
If you are looking for a conference service with this ability to mute some user just for yourself, TrueConf has it.
On a separate note, take a look at this discussion at OBS Ninja, which may be relevant to you.
Agree with this, TrueConf is one of the few vendors that is fully adapted to work with Android TV. The free version of their cloud offering supports conferences for up to 3 people.
Here is more info: https://trueconf.com/downloads/android-tv.html
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I think the perfect match for you is TrueConf Server - it allows you to host your own server and then send others link to connect via their browsers or apps, so no third-party servers will be involved. It supports video calls and conferences, chat, screensharing, slideshow, recording, etc.
Here's more info: https://trueconf.com/features/modes/webinars.html
So you are looking for a plugin that could replace a hardware control system like Crestron CP3? Not sure if there’s such a thing, really. The only software I am aware of that works in a similar way is TrueConf Weathervane: it tracks active speakers in a PTZ multicam environment.
You'll need a full set of prerequisites: 4K camera, 4K monitor, a capable CPU, plus video conferencing software that can do 4K (I think only TrueConf provides it by now). They have a guide on how to achieve 4K: https://trueconf.com/blog/knowledge-base/simple-guide-to-4k-video-conferencing.htm
All in all, I think 4K is overestimated - even if you have complied with all the requirements, the person you are talking to won't notice 4K because they are connected from a usual laptop or smartphone. For interviews, FullHD will be more than enough.
What software are you using? There's an option to turn off everyone's camera and mute all (who are not speakers) in TrueConf role-based conference, maybe there's something similar in Zoom.
There's also a focus mode for distance learning available with TrueConf or Zoom - the owner of the conference can see and hear all participants, while participants can only see and hear the owner. Not sure if this is your case, because the participants cannot hear each other - they need to request to become a presenter to be visible to others.
Now MCUs are not very popular, but it's still a wise option with H.323/SIP infrastructure to maintain.
There's TrueConf MCU - it's software-based bridge that works with standards-based endpoints in LAN. There's a free version for up to 4 connections (always good to try it out first)
Pexip Infinity is also an MCU originally.
TrueConf offers a virtual classroom mode which seems the exact thing you are looking for. The teacher can see and hear all students at once, while students can see only the lecturer: https://trueconf.com/features/modes/virtual-classroom.html
BTW Zoom has also recently rolled out a similar mode: https://www.theverge.com/2021/8/11/22620822/zoom-virtual-learning-classes-focus-mode-teachers-students
I guess TrueConf allows streaming with up to FullHD quality and also gives some layout customization options: https://trueconf.com/blog/press-release/nasaspaceflight-trueconf-bring-global-space-community-together.html
Zoom also will do, but the quality might be lower.
I'd recommend TrueConf - it's an Eastern European brand that operates in China (it can also work in LAN/VPN). They offer a virtual-event-on-demand option and can help you organize your meeting: https://trueconf.com/virtual-events-platform.html
In case you are looking for a secure solution, I’d suggest self-hosted alternatives, something like TrueConf Server, perhaps. This on-prem video conferencing software enables you to keep all the data on your computers; so, no third-party can gain access to your confidential information.
On the software side, I’d suggest TrueConf that operates in LAN/VPN with no Internet being involved. Offline operation is available only in the paid standard version, but you can book a free demo to test this feature (and anyway if you need only 2 rooms the price will be quite affordable, as it's concurrent-based). You can install TrueConf app on your laptop or Mac connected to your TV and display meeting on this TV.
Depends on the TVBox you are using.
There's TrueConf for Android TV video conferencing app on Google Play, which works with NVIDIA SHIELD TV, Xiaomi Mi Box 4 or Xiaomi Mi Box S + webcams such as Logitech C920, C922, C930, or PTZ Pro 2: https://trueconf.com/support/system-requirements.html#smarttv
I've heard that Google Duo was also going to be available on Android TVs, but I'm not sure if it's already supported.
In case you have an Android-based Smart TV, I’d suggest TrueConf; it’s an app for video calls and conferences designed for Android TV platform. Some compatible USB cameras are listed here: https://trueconf.com/support/system-requirements.html#smarttv
If you don’t mind using self-hosted solutions, I’d suggest TrueConf Server. This video conferencing supports screen sharing and remote desktop control. Plus, it supports native apps for Windows, Mac, and Linux.
https://trueconf.com/products/tcsf/trueconf-server-free.html
If you are ok with on-premises solutions, there's TrueConf, it's self-hosted and secure, the paid version works offline. There's also free version for up to 12 users: https://trueconf.com/products/tcsf/trueconf-server-free.html
Perhaps, you might try a self-hosted webinar platform to get more security control over your data. Something like TrueConf Server might be an option; this on-prem software supports YouTube streaming and enables attendees to join from browsers (no need to create an account and sign in). Besides, there are APIs and SDKs if you need to embed webinars into a website or existing app.
You may also try TrueConf Server. It's a self-hosted video conferencing solution working in LAN/VPN. Plus, it supports multiple collaboration tools (e.g. screen sharing, chat, recording, and slideshow).
TrueConf supports Full HD recording at 30 fps (but this solution is self-hosted).
There is a free version for up to 12 users: https://trueconf.com/products/tcsf/trueconf-server-free.html
We are using TrueConf, annual license for 100 hosts will cost about $5k: https://trueconf.com/
You could also use Jitsi for free, but it may require some IT and developing skills.
In comparison, Zoom Business for 99 hosts costs about $20k
Your own webinar server may give you more flexibility and control; I’d suggest TrueConf, a self-hosted solution supporting browser-based calls and conferences. Users only need to follow a link to join a conference (no need for them to have an account). Plus, you’ll be able to manage participants’ roles during conferences, i.g., hide or mute them, if necessary: https://trueconf.com/products/server/video-conferencing-server.html
4K video conferencing is currently supported by Lifesize and TrueConf.
With Lifesize, you’ll need a hardware video conferencing system (Lifesize Icon 700, $7,499).
With TrueConf, 4K video is supported even in the free version - but don't forget that you will also require a PC, 4K camera and 4K display. Here's more about their requirements: https://trueconf.com/blog/knowledge-base/simple-guide-to-4k-video-conferencing.html
In TrueConf, there's a video lecture mode where the host can see and hear all participants, while each of them can see and hear only the host: https://trueconf.com/features/modes/virtual-training.html
I am not sure what kind of PTZ cameras would be best for you (they vary immensely in terms of video quality, focus distance, and viewing angle). Need to know more about the size of your room and where the cameras will be placed. As for switching software, I’d suggest TrueConf Weathervane, a solution allowing to track speakers using multiple PTZ cameras and a discussion system like Bosch or Sennheiser.
Logitech Rally or Logitech BRIO. Both of them are 4K cameras, the latter being less expensive. But without proper software, 4K camera won't be enough for 4K video conferencing. As far as I know, TrueConf is capable of UltraHD meetings, here's their guide: https://trueconf.com/blog/knowledge-base/simple-guide-to-4k-video-conferencing.html
TrueConf Server. It’s a self-hosted solution that allows holding non-stop video meetings in LAN/VPN. But I guess that in order to perform your scenario you'll need to buy a license for two offline users (or you could ask for a free three-week trial).
TrueConf provides real-time layout control, which allows arranging video windows in a certain order and locking the layout for all participants.
https://trueconf.com/blog/news/remote-layout-and-meeting-management.html
If it’s possible, you might try using a different mic. I'd also suggest submitting a ticket to TrueConf support team
En muchos servicios de videoconferencia, no existe la funcionalidad necesaria para la capacitación. Prueba los clases virtuales de TrueConf.
https://trueconf.com/es/caracteristicas/modos/clasevirtual.html
TrueConf allows multiple users to share their screens at the same time if you don't mind using self-hosted solution. There's a free version for 12 users so you can try multiple screen broadcasting.
"As browsers cannot synchronize multiple incoming streams, you need a video conferencing server for audio and video mixing to run group audio or video conferences."
TrueConf, on-premises video collaboration platform with AES-256 encryption https://trueconf.com/
Also heard of Jitsi (but only if you self host it) and Matrix.
The choice will obviously depend on what you consider to be private and secure. If privacy were my major priority, I’d look for the software enabling me to keep all the communications on my own computer. In case you look for something like that, I’d suggest TrueConf Server, a self-hosted solution that supports video conferences with up to 800 participants. Plus, there are cross-platform client apps allowing users to connect from PCs, mobile devices or browsers.
https://trueconf.com/products/server/video-conferencing-server.html
TrueConf might be a good option if you don’t mind using self-hosted video conferencing software. This solution enables users to share audio, display their screens, and show video from a web camera at the same time. Students can join meetings either from client apps (available for macOs) or from a browser. It's now available for free for education needs because of COVID-19: https://trueconf.com/blog/press-release/trueconf-helps-schools-and-universities-to-move-classes-online-due-to-covid-19-pandemic.html
If you are using Mavericks, you’ll need TrueConf 7.1.3 for mac OS which will be compatible with the later versions of TrueConf client applications. With this app you will be able to make video calls or participate in conferences, but some of new features will be unavailable. Currently, this version cannot be downloaded from App Store or from the TrueConf website; however, you can submit a ticket to the TrueConf support team and they will generate a downlink link for you:
TrueConf Server might be worth trying. This self-hosted solution supports video conferences (up to 800 participants), offers special video lecture mode and multiple collaboration tools (e.g. slideshow, screen sharing, chat, recording, remote desktop control). The full-featured version is now offered for free for education due to COVID-19.
I’d suggest TrueConf, it's on-premise software that supports video meetings (up to 800 participants) and provides collaboration tools like content sharing, chat, and remote desktop control. Plus, this solution can work in LAN/VPN which may also be an advantage.
You might consider developer tools offered by TrueConf. They provide APIs that help other developers integrate video conferencing into websites and existing apps. Their solutions are premises-based which enables clinics to keep all the communications on their own servers and secure patient data. The project done by TrueConf and ClinicTracker seems to be very similar to what you are looking for https://trueconf.com/blog/news/trueconf-and-clinictracker-deliver-a-powerful-telemedicine-solution.html
If you don’t mind using on-premise solutions, TrueConf Server might be a good option. This software allows holding video conferences where the host (i.e. the teacher) is the only participant who can be seen or heard by students. At the same time, the teacher can see and hear each of the students. As far as I know, this tool is now offered for free to schools, colleges, and universities due to COVID-19.
In case you work for a U.S.-based university, I’d suggest TrueConf Server University. It’s a free self-hosted solution supporting video calls and conferences with up to 800 participants. They support screen sharing, webinars, conference recording, chat, telephony integration and other features.
If you are not from the United States, TrueConf provides special academic licenses and discounts to educational organizations worldwide + they have a free version for 12 users: https://trueconf.com/pricing/special-licenses.html
I think TrueConf Server might be a good option; it’s a self-hosted solution that basically has all the features that you’re looking for. This software supports video calls, conferences, and recording (plus some other collaboration tools like content sharing). As far as I know, they have special prices for NGOs and nonprofits.
https://trueconf.com/products/server/video-conferencing-server.html
If you don’t mind a software-based solution, try TrueConf Weathervane. It’s an app designed for tracking speakers in a conference room using multiple PTZ cameras, and it's free.
https://trueconf.com/products/weathervane.html
Not as far ahead of its' time as some might think. This is a video phone booth that was used in 1930's Germany. Bell labs also experimented with a similar device.
A possible way to fix this issue is to connect your Logitech camera to the TV, restart the TV, and then run TrueConf for Android. If this does not work, you may test the camera using a different video call application for Android. If there is still no video, It might be possible that Logitech c930e is not compatible with Sony XG9505. At any rate, you may submit a ticket to TrueConf support center to get more professional help: https://trueconf.com/support.html
TrueConf might be a good option. It’s a self-hosted solution allowing users to integrate video conferencing into their website. Your students will be able to make video calls or connect to conferences from their browsers without downloading apps or doing sign-ups. They only need to have a URL to the conference webpage.
You might try TrueConf. It’s a self-hosted video conferencing tool that can be run on Windows-based CPUs (they also have Linux distributives in beta). The free version allows up to 12 users in a meeting and works in browsers or cross-platform client apps (including Linux). The free version allows only 1 ongoing conference, but it may be worth a try before purchasing the full version: https://trueconf.com/products/tcsf/trueconf-server-free.html
Totally agree, it’s better to rely on the vendor that has already developed HIPAA-compliant solutions. Perhaps, you might consider the project done by ClinicTracker. They’ve recently embedded video conferencing into their web portal using a third-party API:
I’d suggest TrueConf Server, an on-prem video conferencing tool supporting calls to and from SIP/H.323 endpoints. Plus, it allows you to join conferences held on Cisco Webex or other SIP-enabled platforms like BlueJeans.
We use TrueConf, which is free. And OBS, which is also free.
I've DM'd you a link to my stream with this approach in place. If it's helpful I can give a bit of blurb about setup, pros and cons of this in comparison to others etc.
For speaker tracking I’d suggest using TrueConf Weathervane, a free software utility which can direct a PTZ camera toward the mic of a speaker. The tool is used for speaker tracking in conference rooms without costly control systems like Crestron. More importantly, it does not interfere with the work of Zoom or any other video conferencing software. It works in bundle with any PTZ camera.
More info on Weathervane: https://trueconf.com/products/weathervane.html
P.S. Speaking about framing, you can try Logitech Rally, it features intelligent speaker framing and provides decent resolution. In this case you won't need any additional software at all.
If you want to create a video-enabled app, TrueConf provides cross-platform SDKs for React Native, Cordova, and Xamarin: https://trueconf.com/blog/press-release/trueconf-delivers-video-conferencing-for-cordova-xamarin-and-react-native-frameworks.html
TrueConf for Android application supports Chromecasting, so you can cast your video calls and conferences to Smart TVs or present wirelessly with one tap: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1UlE3QtlKY8
The free cloud version supports conferences with up to 3 people.
TrueConf is a self-hosted video conferencing software system that performs well even with slow Internet connection or low bandwidth. The free version supports up to 12 users and can be installed on a regular PC, so you won't need to invest into hardware endpoints: https://trueconf.com/products/tcsf/trueconf-server-free.html
You should check out TrueConf Server, it’s a self-hosted UC system that supports audio and video communications, integration with telephony and business processes. Plus, there are client apps for every major platform, both mobile and PC-based.
There are some video conferencing tools that match your requirements. For example, TrueConf Server allows users to share their screens, exchange files, and send text messages. This solution supports multiple conference mode, and one of them is video lecture. In this mode, each of the students can see and hear only the teacher, while the teacher can see and hear all the students.
I’d suggest TrueConf Server, a secure self-hosted video conferencing solution allowing businesses to keep communications on their own servers.
This software provides several security safeguards that make it difficult to access your data or take control of peripherals like webcams. For example, audio and video streams are encrypted according to AES-256 which means that they cannot be reproduced by third party. This tool also supports end-to-end encryption preventing anyone from intercepting video communications or text messages.
Plus, TrueConf enables companies to hold video conferences with up to 250 participants, offers collaboration tools like chat and content sharing, integration with Active Directory/LDAP, etc.
TrueConf Server might be a good choice if you are concerned about privacy. It’s a HIPAA-compliant video conferencing tool that allows you to keep all the communications on premises. The data will be additionally encrypted according to AES-256 , so it will be impossible for any unauthorized party to access either video or audio streams. Plus, this solution supports conferences with up to 250 participants which means that you can hold sessions with multiple patients at the same time. They can connect to a conference either from client applications or via browsers, depending on what is more convenient for them.
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They have a free version for up to 12 users: https://trueconf.com/products/tcsf/trueconf-server-free.html
Free version of TrueConf Server is a good fit for you if you need to connect only three sites. It supports up to 12 participants and 1 SIP/H.323 connection for free, and the 4K video will look great on your large screen, plus it works decently even if the internet is slow. TrueConf is deployed on-prem and goes with desktop and mobile client apps, though users can also connect from their browser.
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However, if this is a one-time event and you need to connect multiple users, I'd also look at TrueConf Event plan - it’s a cloud virtual room for up to 120 participants available for 24 hours. Event plan is paid, however the price is ok, as you pay only for 1 day. Here’s more info and price calculator: https://trueconf.com/pricing/online/event.html
We’ve used TrueConf to build a browser-based video chat with WebRTC HTML widget code : https://trueconf.com/blog/knowledge-base/embedding-trueconf-video-conferencing-into-your-website.html
If you need a self-hosted streaming solution, I’d suggest TrueConf. It’s an on-premises video conferencing server with a built-in WebRTC-based module. Works with any browser, including Edge and Safari, from any devices (PCs, tablets, mobiles). Here's a link: https://trueconf.com/features/modes/webinars.html
The basic system requirements for TrueConf WebRTC conferences: Intel Pentium 4 @ 3.2 GHz+, 1 GB RAM and 128-640 Kbps inbound/upstream channel.
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If you are ok with cloud offerings, there are also other options to consider, such as Zoom or Webex.
By now TrueConf provides the best video quality, so you might want to give it a try. The free version is fully functional and does not put any restrictions on the quality of video. The streaming module is also built into the product.
You only have web app access with those meeting deals.
You'll can use https://trueconf.com/downloads/linux.html or https://flathub.org/apps/details/com.skype.Client or something else if you want full functionality.
And yes, X11 is what you would use. That's easy. Wayland is a pipe dream until Nvidia gives a F about it. But that's another topic.
https://appuals.com/how-to-join-gotomeeting-on-gnulinux/
I don't know who decides what meeting app to use, but if it ain't you, you have no choice but to do web browser only.
You may try TrueConf WebRTC widget and embed it into your web application. This is a self-hosted webinar platform, so you will need to deploy a software server in this case. This guide will give you a better idea about this WebRTC widget.
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There's also Agora.io which provides APIs and SDKs for video embedding.
A conferencing mode with active speakers and attendees may be exactly what you need. You can appoint six participants who can speak and be visible to everyone at the same time, while other users can see and hear the speakers but cannot be heard or seen. If an attendee wants to speak, he or she may send a request for the conference moderator to become a speaker, or make an audio remark that will be heard by every participant. This will erase the problem with unwanted noise. It is really is terrible when everyone is talking at the same time, so this active speaker division sounds like a good idea.
Here is more info: https://trueconf.com/features/modes/virtual-meeting.html
TrueConf Server might be the right solution. It supports livestreaming and recording, the conference can be embedded into your website with the help of HTML widget. Plus, you can add up to 4 speakers into the conference (or remove them when necessary).
If this is a one-time event and you won't need it afterwards, you can check out one-time event plan: https://trueconf.com/pricing/online/event.html
Zoom is the easiest to manage, so if you agree with the fee you may go for it.
TrueConf Server free version supports up to 12 user accounts, it's deployed on-prem, perfect for conference rooms and allows participants to join from their own devices, but you'll require an hour or so to set everything up in the beginning.
TrueConf provides a somewhat close functionality.
If you are running a web conference within your organization, the person who wants to join the conference need to enter their user credentials, so people without a user account won't join. Plus, you may automatically invite certain people to the conference via email when scheduling the meeting.
If you launch a public web conference and expect some external guests to join, access management gets more difficult, as any user with a link can enter the conference. However, you don’t usually give links to the meetings to random people, so I guess this is also a way to control the access to your conference.
We've replaced old Cisco Codians with TrueConf Server, it's on-prem software server with built-in SIP/H.323 gateway. Satisfied so far.
On the software part you may check TrueConf Server University, that’s a free on-premises video collaboration platform specifically designed for the U.S. higher ed institutions. There’s a built-in SIP/H.323 gateway, screen sharing, whiteboarding, chat, server-side recording, webinars and more.
This of course depends on your needs, but why bother with the streaming solutions, have you thought about WebRTC? You can deploy on-prem software video conferencing server like TrueConf Server, so you will be able to take control over your communications and record calls and conferences. Next, create a role conference or a video lecture, so that the conference attendees could see only your video and/or content and not each other. Then send the conference link to the people you want to invite, they can watch your stream directly in their browsers. Plus you and your guests will be able to exchange messages.
I’d go with TrueConf, they claim to provide high audio and video quality even at low bandwidth. Btw, TrueConf is also capable of 4K video conferencing provided you have proper setup and network connection at least 8 Mb/s. The recommended setup will cost about $2,000 per one meeting room, if you already have 4K camera, 4K screen or speakerphone, it will cost less. To put that into perspective, Lifesize’s endpoint will cost about $7500 (with annual subscription the price will rise up to $8500).
You are right, if you've got O365 package it will be wise to move to SfB/Teams.
As an alternative to SfB there's also TrueConf if you need an on-prem solution, it's much simplier to deploy and administer as compared to Microsoft's offering, plus it's cheaper.
And if you are ok with the cloud, there's Zoom, they've recently announced Zoom Phone cloud phone system + video conferences are good, althouth they still don't provide decent web conferencing.
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I suppose you need something simple and accessible for everyone. Try this: all-in-one PC (e.g. Lenovo or HP) + any webcam/speakerphone + TrueConf Kiosk. This is a working solution for banks, contact centers to connect customers or clients to a remote call agent. The UI is super easy and consists of one Call button. Your visitors press the button and are instantly connected to an available operator. The Kiosk supports video calls and conferences, content sharing, smart queue, and it’s compatible with SIP/H.323 endpoints if you need them. Plus there are branding opportunities (put your company’s logo, etc. to white label the kiosk). The operators can communicate on their PCs with TrueConf app for Windows installed.
If you client needs something very simple, here’s a recommendation:
For the scan rooms:
All-in-one PCs (e.g. Lenovo or HP) + any web camera + speakerphone + click to call video chat (e.g. TrueConf Kiosk). This is basically video conferencing software for Windows with very simple interface: just a call button/hang button and your video. So when users from the scan room need to call, they press one button and they get connected to the main room. Plus you can fully customize the solution, e.g. put your hospital logo etc.
For the main room:
Simple PC with TrueConf client app for Windows installed and put on auto redial.
If your friend is so strongly concerned about privacy, you should deploy your own software server that will allow you to keep your data and communications on your own machine safely. TrueConf does this, and it’s not so difficult to deploy (took me less than 30 min). The free version works for 12 users.
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Not sure if you still need any help, but I’d recommend TrueConf Server. This solution has APIs and collaboration tools like desktop sharing, slideshow, instant messaging and conference recording, plus it works with pretty much everything.
TrueConf provides such a layout:
https://trueconf.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/photo_2019-02-25_11-49-46.jpg
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Video is always 100% better than voice, because users can maintain visual contact and it’s often easier for them to get their points across. Besides, there are additional opportunities for collaboration such as screen sharing or slideshow.
Judging from my experience, I can tell that people often rely on popular solutions like Skype and Zoom to communicate with external partners or clients. Or they run web conferences so that anyone could join via browser, which I think is a more rational way to do that. There are people who don't want or can't install Skype at work, etc. + Skype might at times be unreliable.
At our company, we usually use TrueConf web conferences for meetings with business partners and customers. I just share a URL link with my colleagues, and they join the conference at the scheduled time. People usually don’t have any special problems joining via browsers. Sometimes they experience troubles selecting proper handset or camera during the conference, but this persists in any type of conference and depends on person’s technical skills.
I`d suggest TrueConf Server, it’s HIPAA compliant, operates in private networks and uses SSL/TLS encryption protocols:
https://trueconf.com/blog/news/trueconf-hipaa-compliance-statement.html
This solution has already been adopted by healthcare providers around the world, here’s a case study. They they have special licenses for healthcare providers.
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In my opinion, single purchase of a good video communication tool is less expensive than constantly renting conference rooms, especially if your company has several remote sites with many employees. For the conferencing setup I’d suggest Intel Nuc i5 or i3 for lower power consumption and faster startup, Logitech BRIO camera and Phoenix Audio Smart Spider speakerphone. Regarding the software part, on-prem solution is a good choice because it businesses greater control over their data and can operate with limited to non Internet connection or in LAN/VPN. Try TrueConf Server Free. It’s free for up to 12 users, provides a number of collaboration tools and is compatible with Logitech/Phoenix Audio hardware.
I’d suggest TrueConf, it provides good web conferencing that works in any browser (or use can use client apps). I personally like the collaboration features, might be useful if you are working in a team or just regularly showing something to others. Plus multiple virtual rooms available.
https://trueconf.com/features/modes/webinars.html
Check out TrueConf Server, it supports RTSP, so you can connect multiple IP cameras to the conference, display all the screams on a single screen and record the session. And yes, the audio connection between the sites is also possible.
https://trueconf.com/features/integration/rtsp.html
Agree with the Logitech Group idea, this kit is simple, affordable and the quality is good. As for the video conferencing software, you might want to look at TrueConf Server- it's fully compatible with Logitech Group, integrates with Skype for Business and works good. If you have fewer than 12 users, you can use the free version.
If you want to stick to on-prem solution and take advantage of your existing endpoints, you might want to try TrueConf Server. The free version is free for up to 12 user accounts and one SIP/H.323 endpoint. If you are going to use more than one Cisco device, you'll have to go with paid license, but it's not really expensive. Besides, this solution will save you from clouds or unwanted subscriptions.
Consider the following setup: Duet PCS 2pcs, Intel NUC 7i3 or 8i3 2pcs, Logitech 930 2pcs + any video conferencing software you prefer. The hardware part will cost you about 500$ per site.
Speaking about the softare, my recommendation is to setup free TrueConf Server within your LAN to avoid any cloud subscriptions and recurrent charges.
Depends on your goals and equipment. At our office we are currently using TrueConf Server, is a software server free for up to 12 users. If I remember right, full version offers up to 250 users.
Thanks! Just checked TrueConf website and I actually may give it a try. Also I've found a good article about 4K meeting room setup, maybe you'll find it useful: https://trueconf.com/blog/reviews-comparisons/simple-guide-to-4k-video-conferencing.html
Video conferencing & collaboration solution will cut your travel expenses, this is for sure. I’ve seen a lot of real case studies that prove this point, you may take a look at this one - Bhutan Government connected remote districts using video conferencing and reduced business trip expenses: https://trueconf.com/blog/press-release/bhutan-commissions-trueconf-system-200-administrative-districts.html
However, I don’t think a hardware solution is a key here. You need to invest in video conferencing devices in huddle rooms or meeting rooms, where there's a need to capture a lot of people and provide high quality video. However, for remote workplaces it would be extremely costly to supply your device to every user you are to be in contact with. A software product supporting all popular platforms, on the other hand, would perfectly match the purpose, especially in places where people can bring their own devices to their workplace. In this case, they will be able to connect from any laptop or mobile device, and the only thing you need to invest to is your software.