Conference room video conferencing solutions
Bring-your-own-device (BYOD) systems
Dedicated systems include purpose-built computers or video appliances that run a specific video conferencing application, such as Microsoft Teams Rooms, Zoom Rooms, or Google Meet. They are designed for easy, one-touch meeting starts and provide a consistent user experience.
Modular systems: These combine separate components for better performance. A large display, a high-quality camera (like a Logitech Rally camera) mounted on the wall, and multiple mic pods and speakers for wider coverage are common.
Dual-display setup: To accommodate content sharing and remote participants simultaneously, two monitors are often used.
Room controller: An iPad-sized touch controller, such as the
Layout visual: A rectangular table with two wall-mounted displays. A camera is centered above or below the displays, with microphone pods placed strategically on the table.
To select the best video conferencing solution, follow these steps:
Assess room requirements: Determine the room size and seating capacity. This will inform the necessary camera and microphone ranges.
Select a platform: Choose a system that natively supports your company's primary video conferencing platform (e.g., Teams, Zoom, Google Meet) for the best experience. If platform flexibility is key, a BYOD solution is a strong alternative.
Evaluate features: Look for features that enhance the meeting experience, such as automated speaker tracking, noise cancellation, and digital whiteboarding.
Plan for installation: Consider ease of installation. All-in-one video bars are simpler, while modular systems with ceiling mics require more complex setup.
Consider scalability: Choose a system that can grow with your company. Ensure it's easy to add more rooms and integrate with your existing infrastructure.
Integrated systems:
Microsoft Teams or Zoom are built to handle large spaces.
Multiple cameras: To ensure all participants are clearly visible, large rooms may use multiple cameras. Newer systems feature AI-powered cameras that track the active speaker.
Ceiling microphones: These discreetly installed microphones provide 360-degree coverage for large spaces, eliminating the clutter of tabletop mic pods.
Layout visual: An extra-long table with dual wall displays. A motorized pan/tilt/zoom (PTZ) camera is mounted on the wall, with multiple mic pods on the table. Ceiling mics may also be used.
Versatility: Works with any video conferencing platform (e.g., Zoom, Teams, Google Meet, BYOD) by utilizing the software on the participant's laptop.
Cost-effective: Leverages existing company laptops and is less expensive than dedicated room systems.
Reliability: Not dependent on a user's laptop, providing a more stable meeting experience.
Easy to use: Start meetings with a single touch on a dedicated controller.