Sony is launching the next step in its progression of videoconferencing endpoint solutions with the PCS-G70 series, a system that offers improved audio and video on multi-point calls, as well as new capture, output and display features designed to complement larger conference room presentations. Add a LCD projector, High Definition Plasma or LCD display and get lifesize high definition video communication images in your conference environment.
"The PCS-G70 builds from the foundation of high picture quality, data collaboration capabilities, scalability and ease of connectivity that comprise the key benefits of Sony conferencing endpoints," said Hiroshi Okamoto, vice-president of conferencing solutions for Sony Electronics' Broadband Communications Products Division. "By adding new multi-point capabilities and feature upgrades, the PCS-G70 offers these benefits in an even more viable solution for larger-scale videoconferencing needs."
Improved Picture Transmission and Audio/Video Quality on Multi-Point Calls
Built on the same platform as Sony's existing PCS-1 videoconferencing series, the PCS-G70 increases the IP connection speed from 2 Mbps maximum bandwidth to 4 Mbps, and upgrades the video from CIF to 4CIF for sharper resolution. Audio has been improved, as well, to achieve 14kHz Wideband Quality through MPEG4 Advanced Audio Coding (AAC).
Additionally, the PCS-G70 extends the support of the recently ratified ITU-T industry standard H.264 video capability from point-to-point calls to multi-point calls, so that superb picture quality can be achieved at all call sites on half the bandwidth.
The picture quality is enhanced through interlaced video coding, which enables 60 fields per second rather than 30 frames per second, resulting in sharper images and smoother, more life-like movement.
New Capture, Display and Output Options Increase Flexibility
The Sony PCS-G70 offers new capture, output and display options to offer a more scalable, customized conference experience. To accommodate larger conference rooms, the new system can accommodate output to five separate monitors, enabling full-screen viewing of up to five far-side call participants. For smaller rooms, the participants can still be viewed on one screen in split-screen format. In addition, each participant can be labeled on-screen.
A new dual video option allows two cameras to capture live video and transmit it simultaneously. For instance, if the call originates in a large conference room, one camera can focus on the speaker, while the other on the audience, and each image can be viewed on separate monitors or on split display. And to accommodate the newest plasma and LCD display screens, Sony is offering a new camera option (BRC-300), which captures images in a 16:9 aspect ratio using three CCD imaging chips.
Data collaboration capabilities featured in the current PCS-1 system will also be compatible with the PCS-G70. The "plug in" data solutions box (PCS-DSB1) makes it easy to share PC files, while hand-written data can be transmitted and displayed via a dedicated interface for Virtual Ink's mimio Xiâ„¢ whiteboard recorder.
Higher-Speed Connection Options, Standard Features Streamline Set-Up
The PCS-G70 system utilizes a new high-speed (PRI) ISDN box to facilitate faster call connections. A two-speed connection support can facilitate both IP and ISDN calls, and as with the PCS-1, multi-point conference bridge software facilitates the connection of both ISDN and IP connections on a conference call.
The PCS-G70 is compatible with Memory Stick® flash media. Video phone numbers can be saved to a Memory Stick card, and when one of the numbers is registered as auto-transmission, it is instantly dialed when the media card is inserted into the unit.
Standard Security, Quality of Service Features
The new system offers AES (Advanced Encryption Standard) as a standard feature to protect the security of private information discussed on a conference call, including data transmitted through the PCS-DSB1 data solutions box.
S ony's QoS (Quality of Service) technology, including proprietary Adaptive Rate Control (ARC) and real-time Auto Repeat reQuest (ARQ), are also standard features on the PCS-G70.
QoS technology will quickly "shrink" the bandwidth of the call to adjust for Internet congestion and implement automatic repeat of lost packets. The result is fewer interruptions and better performance while conferencing on the public Internet or on LAN/WAN networks.
