Customer Reviews

Video Communications: The Whole Picture (Cmp Telecom & Networks)

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It's 2005! Where are all of those picturephones that we were promised back at the 1964 World's Fair at Flushing Meadow, New York? Authors James R. Wilcox and David Gibson, have done an outstanding job of writing a book that answers the preceding question; as well as, discussing today's video communication tools and the applications that are built upon them.

Wilcox and Gibson begin by examining videoconferencing. Next, the authors cover the use of video communication applications. Then, they detail instances in which organizations have leveraged video communication. The authors continue by making the business case for video communications. In addition, the authors next outline the evolution of broadcasting techniques, why there are different television systems in different parts of the world, and what those systems are. They also discuss digital encoding techniques. Next, the authors present a thorough discussion of codecs and the standards that define them. Then, they discuss another aspect of conferencing--audiographics conferencing. The authors continue by discussing the standards for conferencing over IP. In addition, they discuss ATM with regards to physical and data-link layer transmission systems. The authors also cover packet-switched networks in detail. Next, the authors cover how group systems accommodate multiple viewers in a single location. Then, they consider the process of implementing a conventional group-oriented video communication facility that is suitable for routine organizational use. The authors continue by examining how personal conferencing leverages a variety of distance-collaboration tools that are easily used at a personal computer. In addition, the authors provide tips for evaluating and buying personal conferencing systems. Finally, they predict the future of video communications.

With the preceding in mind, the authors have done an excellent job of presenting clearly and concisely the complex subject of video communication. So, perhaps, by the end of this decade, we will all have those picturephones that were promised 40 years ago.