Video+Conferencing

= Training and Help for Polycom Video Conferencing =

Welcome to the Polycom Video Adoption Center.
==Allow us to show you around. From their desktop PC to fully immersive telepresence suites, every day millions of people around the world use Polycom to communicate with their colleagues, partners, and friends. The result: faster decisions, clearer communication, and more personable and productive teams.==

User Training Course for Polycom Units:
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Comprehensive Training Guide:
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Remote Control Quick Tips Guide:
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Top 10 Frequently Asked Questions
//**1. How do I use the remote control?**// Download and print a helpful navigation tool.

//**2. Can I preview how I'll look before the video conference?**// Yes. Before the call, your image will be shown in the display. Make sure that you're visible within the frame, that the room lighting is adequate, and that there are no background distractions. Once the call has started, you can use the Picture-in-Picture button to view your image.

//**3. How do I know if people can hear me?**// Verify the volume settings on your remote control (or PC) and if necessary adjust them. Also, make sure you're not on Mute at the beginning of the conference. With today's technology, shouting or speaking loudly is unnecessary, so speak in a normal tone of voice, and try to limit side conversations and shuffling papers near the microphone.

//**4. Background noise is disrupting my meeting. What should I do?**// Ask participants at the other sites to Mute when they are not speaking. (The Mute button is a vital element in a smooth-running meeting.) When you ask someone a question, make sure you give them a few seconds to respond, as they might be turning off Mute so they can be heard.

//**5. How do I share content on my PC with people in my video conference?**// With Polycom People + Content IP software, you can send content from your display to participants right through the network. (Download the free software.) Simply start the application, input the IP or H.323 of your video conference system (for example: 172.19.22.163), and click the application's purple "play" button. Your PC content will then display for all participants. Note: you may want to disable any instant message pop-up windows or e-mail applications beforehand. As a backup for regular meetings, you can e-mail a copy of your content to meeting participants before the conference.

//**6. What's the key to successfully presenting over video?**// It may seem initially odd, but when addressing a broad audience, look directly into the camera lens, not at the faces on the display. This way meeting participants sense you're looking directly at them and will more readily engage with you. Also, make sure your background is simple and uncluttered, so people can focus on you and your content, not on distractions.

//**7. How do I add other sites to a video conference?**// For multiparty calls, it is recommended that you use a video conference bridge that all participants dial into so you can see and hear each other. The concept is similar to an audio conference bridge, with the added dimension of visual communication. Some video conference systems have built in multiparty capability (check with your system administrator to see if this option is available for you) where a small number of other sites can be joined simply by hitting the "dial" button during a call and inputting the remote site's number.

//**8. What's the difference between 'telepresence' and 'video conferencing'?**// Generally, 'telepresence' is a term used to describe visual communication on high definition (HD) video systems, from desktops to fully immersive rooms. "Video Conferencing" describes traditional non-HD video systems. As HD systems are increasingly adopted, telepresence is increasingly becoming the default term describing real-time video interactions.

//**9. Is there anything I should NOT do in a video conference?**// Remember you're on camera, so don't do anything you don't want others to see. Act as you would if people were in the room with you. Avoid rocking your chair, tapping on the table or making any noise near the microphone. Speak in your normal voice and try to avoid side conversations when people on the far side are speaking. Muting your microphone when you are not speaking is very helpful.

//**10. I'd like to use video conferencing at my home office. Can I do that?**// Yes. In addition to our room and immersive systems, Polycom has a video soft client application for PCs called "CMA Desktop." Ask your IT department how to get it loaded on your system for remote or home office use.