Desk top video conferencing-an important feature of future visual communications

The use of the video telephone, normally restricted to two parties, can be extended by including desk top video conferencing facilities. Employing such facilities from conference rooms or studios tends to restrict spontaneity in their use. It is pointed out that this is not the case when a feature of this type is available in the workplace. A multifunctional terminal suitable for such purpose is demonstrated. A solution that makes provision for a conference server for editing sound and picture signals at the switch is presented. For broadband technology, implementation options are described for the video unit, and for narrowband technology, the particular problems involved are pointed out.<>