Chapter 2 - Hardware Description

MGC Unit Components

The following table describes the MGC components. A more detailed description is found in the MGC-50/MGC-100 Hardware & Installation Manual.

Table 2-1: MGC Component Description

MGC

Description

Component

 

 

 

Control Module

The Main Control Module performs the conference setup

 

and termination and resource allocation in both the

 

MGC-100 and the MGC-50.

 

 

Backplane

The backplane is an electronic circuit board into which

 

The Network Interface Module, the Main Control Module,

 

Functional Modules, and I/O cards are plugged so the

 

various modules can communicate with each other. The

 

Backplane is based on the “universal slot” concept, where

 

any card can be inserted in any slot.

 

 

Power Plane

The Power Plane is a conducting layer providing power to

 

the components. It is part of the Backplane and is

 

designed to accommodate hot swapping of power

 

supplies.

 

 

Power Supply

The Power Supply Module is located underneath the Main

Modules

Control Module and the Functional Modules and is

 

connected to the backplane. It provides power to the

 

Backplane by means of a power bus. Both MGC units

 

(MGC-100 and MGC-50) operate at 100-240 volts AC 50/

 

60 Hz.

 

 

Fans

Three (MGC-100) or two (MGC-50) fans are mounted at

 

the bottom of the rear panel.

 

 

Alarms Port

In the MGC-100 an Alarms port is located on the Main

 

Control Module. The dry contacts on the rear panel of the

 

MGC-100 are for connecting to the customer’s alarm

 

system.

 

 

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Polycom MGC-50, MGC-100 manual MGC Unit Components, Description

MGC-50, MGC-100 specifications

The Polycom MGC (Multipoint Gateway Controller) series includes notable models such as MGC-100 and MGC-50, designed to enhance video and audio conferencing capabilities in various organizational setups. These systems are pivotal for facilitating effective communication in a world where remote collaboration is increasingly essential.

The Polycom MGC-100 serves as a powerful multipoint control unit (MCU), allowing multiple concurrent video and audio sessions. It is particularly suitable for larger enterprises and organizations that require sophisticated conferencing capabilities. Supporting both standard definition (SD) and high definition (HD) video, the MGC-100 can manage high-quality video streams seamlessly. Its ability to integrate with different conferencing systems and technologies makes it a versatile tool for enterprises looking to enhance their collaboration efforts.

Some standout features of the MGC-100 include its support for a wide range of protocols, including H.323 and SIP, ensuring compatibility with various endpoint devices. This model can accommodate a substantial number of participants, depending on the configuration, with options for scalability. The system also boasts advanced features such as content sharing, enabling users to present slides, documents, and other materials during conferences.

On the other hand, the Polycom MGC-50 is designed for smaller organizations or departmental use. While it provides fewer simultaneous sessions than the MGC-100, it still offers robust features that make it ideal for moderate conferencing needs. The MGC-50 also supports both H.323 and SIP protocols, ensuring smooth interoperability with various video conferencing endpoints. This model features straightforward management capabilities, allowing administrators to set up and control conferences with ease.

Both models are built with advanced video processing technologies, ensuring high-quality audio and video transmission. The inclusion of error correction and packet loss recovery technologies further enhances user experience, minimizing disruptions during calls. The systems also support a variety of codecs, ensuring optimal performance across different network conditions.

In terms of characteristics, both the MGC-100 and MGC-50 emphasize reliability and ease of use. They come with user-friendly interfaces and remote management capabilities, making it simple for IT professionals to maintain and configure the systems. In conclusion, the Polycom MGC series, with its MGC-100 and MGC-50 models, exemplifies a commitment to quality and performance in multipoint conferencing, catering to diverse organizational needs while facilitating effective communication strategies.