2.If no tones are received within 30 seconds, the call is routed to the H.323 client designated as the operator station. If an H.323 Terminal that supports call transfer, such as LiveLAN, is being used as the operator station, an operator (person) asks for the name or H.323 Terminal ID, and then transfers the call normally. If an operator station is not specified, the call is disconnected.

Note: Any PictureTel LiveLAN Terminal can be designated as an operator station. Other H.323 terminals, however, may not support this function.

Operator-assisted Calls

When a LiveLAN client is designated as an operator station, LiveGateway directs incoming calls requiring operator assistance to that station. Calls without DTMF are examples of calls that require operator assistance.

To designate a LiveLAN client as an operator station, the LiveManager administrator must enter the H.323 Terminal ID of the client into the LiveManager operator station mapping file.

When an incoming H.320 call requires operator assistance, LiveGateway uses the information in the LiveManager mapping file to pass the call to the operator station. From there, the operator transfers the call using LiveLAN’s call transfer capability. For more information, refer to the PictureTel LiveManager Product Guide.

If an operator station is not specified in the LiveManager operator station mapping file, the call will be disconnected if:

•The H.320 terminal does not have DTMF capability.

•The H.320 terminal has DTMF capability, but the caller does not know the destination H.323 Terminal ID.

•An incorrect H.323 Terminal ID is entered.

The "Always Use Operator Station" Feature

You can configure LiveGateway to use the Operator Station to answer all incoming LiveGateway calls by enabling the "Always Use Operator Station" checkbox on the LiveGateway Configuration utility window when you install LiveGateway. The feature is enabled when a checkmark appears in the checkbox. The system default for this feature is set to disabled. Click on it to enable it. Refer to Running the LiveGateway Configuration Utility for specific information on how to change LiveGateway board configuration information.

Sample Configuration

The following diagram shows a sample configuration consisting of an ISDN WAN, a LiveGateway, LiveLAN clients, and an H.320 client.

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PictureTel 3.1 appendix Sample Configuration, Operator-assisted Calls, Always Use Operator Station Feature
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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.
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