Outgoing Calls

When a user makes a LAN to WAN call, LiveManager checks for available resources and passes the call to LiveGateway. If there is more than one LiveGateway installed on a server, LiveManager uses the bandwidth information to determine which LiveGateway will complete the call.

If bandwidth checking has been enabled, LiveManager chooses available LiveGateways by location (closest to farthest). If bandwidth checking has been disabled, LiveManager chooses available LiveGateways by order of registration (first to last).

Incoming Calls

LiveGateway allows LiveLAN clients to receive two types of calls from H.320 and other LiveGateways:

1.DTMF

2.Operator-assisted

DTMF Calls

DTMF is an abbreviation for Dual-Tone Multiple Frequency -- the telecommunications scheme that encodes digits using the sounds generated by push-button telephones. The following PictureTel systems support DTMF:

PictureTel Live 50™ (all versions)

PictureTel Live 100™ (all versions)

PictureTel Live200™ (version 1.1)

PictureTel SwiftSite™ (all versions)

PictureTel Venue 2000™ (all versions)

PictureTel Concorde 4500™ (version 6.10 or later)

Note: Users placing calls from terminals that do not support DTMF can either place a pocket dialer next to the microphone of the terminal making the call or use operator assistance. For more information, refer to Operator-assisted Calls.

Note: When sending DTMF tones to LiveGateway, it is important that the H.320 system is not muted. If the H.320 system is muted, the tones will not be sent to LiveGateway, even through they are audible (can be heard) from the H.320 system’s speakers.

When LiveGateway receives a call from an H.320 user with DTMF:

1.LiveGateway prompts the H.320 user (via an audio prompt) to enter the H.323 Terminal ID of the destination client.

2.The user enters the H.323 Terminal ID, and the terminal sends the ID as DTMF tones through its audio channel.

3.LiveGateway converts the tones to digits.

4.LiveGateway and Live Manager use the digits to request connection to the LiveLAN client.

5.If LiveManager cannot find the LiveLAN or H.323 client, the call is disconnected, unless operator- assistance is used, in which case, the call is forwarded to the operator station.

When LiveGateway receives a call from an H.320 user without DTMF:

1. LiveGateway prompts the H.320 user to enter the H.323 Terminal ID of the destination client.

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PictureTel 3.1 appendix Outgoing Calls, Incoming Calls, Dtmf Calls

3.1 specifications

PictureTel 3.1 is a landmark software release that revolutionized the realm of video conferencing and remote communication technology in the late 1990s. Emerging from the need for effective and efficient communication in professional environments, PictureTel 3.1 combined innovative technologies and user-friendly features to facilitate high-quality video interactions.

One of the standout features of PictureTel 3.1 is its advanced video compression technology. By utilizing the H.261 standard, it enabled high-quality video transmissions over low-bandwidth connections, making it accessible for a wider audience. This capability paved the way for organizations to implement video conferencing without needing extensive infrastructure investments. The software's ability to dynamically adjust video quality based on available bandwidth ensured smooth sessions, minimizing interruptions and enhancing user experience.

Additionally, PictureTel 3.1 introduced a user-friendly interface that emphasized simplicity and ease of use. This intuitive design allowed users to initiate and manage video conferences effortlessly. The software supported a variety of input devices, including USB cameras, which expanded its compatibility across different hardware platforms. Users could easily connect to meetings with just a few clicks, which was revolutionary for companies looking to adopt remote communication solutions.

Another hallmark of PictureTel 3.1 was its robust multi-point capabilities. This meant that multiple participants could join a single conference, facilitating collaboration among teams dispersed across different locations. The software supported various layouts for video feeds, allowing users to customize their viewing experience according to their preferences and requirements.

Moreover, PictureTel 3.1 integrated seamlessly with existing telephone systems and other communication tools. This capacity for interoperability meant that organizations could combine traditional voice communication with modern video conferencing, creating a holistic communication experience. Features like screen sharing and document collaboration further enriched meetings, providing teams with the tools necessary for effective communication and teamwork.

In conclusion, PictureTel 3.1 exemplified the potential of video conferencing technologies during its time. Its innovative features, including advanced video compression, user-friendly interface, robust multi-point capabilities, and seamless integration with existing systems, set the foundation for future advancements in remote communication. As organizations increasingly embraced remote work and global collaboration, PictureTel 3.1 played a critical role in transforming how businesses communicate, paving the way for modern video conferencing solutions today.