Education 603 Technological Capabilities
Internet Tool Review
Internet Based Video : CU-SeeME
What is Cu-SeeMe? CU-SeeMe is
a useful and inexpensive Internet based desktop videoconferencing
system which allows users to communicate each other using audio and
video technology. Synchronous
communication provides opportunities of immediate feedback and
interactive exchanges of ideas . In addition, since users can hear
actual voices and watch other peoples gestures, more personal and
face-to-face communication is possible. CU-SeeMe software is
available from Cornell University at a free of charge and enhanced
CU-SeeMe from White is also available. Followings are annotated
descriptions of six salient features of Cu-SeeMe.
- Low cost -- Whereas videoconferencing technology through
satellite or telephone communication systems requires expensive
equipment, high user fees and a dedicated videoconferencing room,
Cu-SeeMe software can be
downloaded
at no cost from Cornell University. CU-SeeMe does not requires any
special equipment for video reception beyond a network connection
and grey-scale monitor. Video camera with serial port digitizer
for transmitting video is available for under $100 (QuickCam by
Connectix).
- Multiplatform -- Cu-SeeMe can be run on the Windows, Windows
95, Macintosh and Power Macintosh.
- Participants -- Up to 8 participant windows can be viewed; but
the number of audio and talk window is unlimited.
- Controls and Adjustments
- Talk window -- Besides audio and video interaction,
Cu-SeeMe provides "talk window" as a written communication
tool. Using "talk window" one can send private messages to an
individual during group videoconference or present a written
text for group comment. This is also useful features for whom
have low-speed connections.
- Local window control -- Microphone, video, status bar, and
connection information.
- Audio Window -- Separate window for audio settings and
control.
- Picture Adjust Slidebar -- Brightness and contrast.
- Transmission Control -- Frame rate in bits per second.
- Individual microphone icon -- This allows private
conversations during a group videoconference.
- Reflector -- Cu-SeeMe supports
group conferences or video broadcasts to a large audience as well
as one-to-one communication. The Reflector is a server-based
application which accepts multiple Cu-SeeMe connections and
reflects the video, audio, and additional data to all participants
concurrently. The list of Reflectors is available from several
sites.
Click
here.
- Additional Features of
Enhanced Cu-SeeME
from White Pine
- Caller ID -- Message alert box for incoming connections.
- Whiteboard for collaboration during conferences; Whiteboard
allows users to work on the same document in the remote
locations.
- Color Support -- 24-bit true color and 4-bit greyscale.
- Phone Book -- Save, add, edit participant addresses and
Reflector sites.
- Video Compression -- Standard and high resolution settings.
The URL for information regarding CU-SeeMe :
http://cu-seeme.cornell.edu
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here to
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