Over the past decade IT technology for the office has improved so much that video conferencing equipment has now become an invaluable tool for businesses around the world both big and small. It has revolutionised the way that businesses communicate, allowing people to interact in a more personal way rather than the awkward conference calls of old. IT makes that much more of a difference to be able to put a face to a voice and can really improve partnerships between businesses. The benefits are not just personal but also financial in that videoconferencing has now eliminated the need for the expensive air travel that was once required for business trips abroad.

There are actually two different varieties of video conferencing: multi point videoconferenving and basic point to point videoconferencing. Point to point is quite simply a method by which two different computers are connected via a common IP address. This is most commonly used for personal video calls. All the equipment that is required is a web cam and a microphone connected to the computer at each end so that users can see and talk to each other.

Multi point videoconferencing is slightly more complex in that it can employ various different equipment setups. These setups will vary depending on the amount of people 'in attendance' and the allowed budget. One method employs a multi-point bridge which is referred to as a Multi Connector Unit (MCU). this MCU is set up as either one standalone computer or alternatively it can be setup as a server where more users can connect. An alternative method can be employed whereby multiple cameras and microphones can be setup. This implementation is more common where a large conference room is to be connected. The final variation of videoconferencing setup makes use of a 'roll-about' system which consists of a cart with a camera and microphone which can be transported around. This is ideal for smaller groups.

Video input depends on the available budget so whether you decide to use a basic webcam or a videocamera is solely down to what you can afford. In terms of video outputs, again the choice is down to your preference. If you are taking part in a one-on-one videoconference then perhaps your computer and monitor will be sufficient. If you are taking part in a meeting where a group will need to be present then it would be advisable to make use of a large screen LCD TV. Each location should have at least one microphone or one microphone that can be passed around. Again, audio outputs will consist of those that are built into the computer or a separate speaker system.

Obviously the video conference is transmitted via an internet connection through an internet service provider or via a high speed broadband connection. You may think that with the sophistication of the images being transmitted, the picture may be somewhat sluggish. This is not the case as videoconferencing software makes use of image and sound compression to make the signal take up less bandwidth.