UMBC has impressive videoconferencing spaces with a variety of connectivity. From traditional satellite downlinks, microwave, two-way ISDN video and now fully interactive videoconference over the internet, we're ready to meet your videoconferencing needs.

Our presentation studio includes 2 remote controlled cameras, 1 overhead camera, a networked PC with scan converter, laptop inputs, data/video projector, VHS and DVD players, multiple microphones including two wireless and 3 mounted television monitors. In the control room an operator takes all the technical worries away from the instructor/presenter. We can tape the presentation/class in DV and VHS formats.

Videoconferencing Over the Internet(H.323)

New H.323 technology and state-of-the art Polycom codecs allow us to provide high quality videoconferences over the internet with little or no cost to participants. At speeds of 384-756kbs the video quality is high and the
audio is very clear, full-duplex, with no breakup. UMBC is also part of Internet2 and is an Internet2 Commons Site. With our network capability we predict even higher speed/broadband videoconferencing in the future.
We have two rooms equipped for H.323 conferences. One is the fully equipped presentation room with 50 seats and the other is a small conference room seating 1-6 participants.

Satellite Downlinks

Our department owns & operates a variety of satellite dishes and receivers to downlink
satellite transmissions over C band and Ku band satellites as well as PBS Digital.
Thanks to our head end distribution we can send these broadcasts to many rooms on campus,
including the Ballroom for large audiences.

Hybrid Conferences (Webcasts and Audio Conferencing)

We have been successful in holding some hybrid conferences, such as receiving a webcast,
projecting the images and connecting via speakerphone for the audio portion.

Costs

Most of our videoconference services are offered for free to regularly scheduled weekday
classes at UMBC. If your conference takes place at anytime other than 8am-4:30pm, is not
class related or you are part of an outside group, there will be charges for room use,
transmission and staff. Our fee for outside groups is $150 an hour for room and personnel
during weekdays. Transmission costs vary with the delivery method, timing and number of sites involved.

We are happy to discuss all these methods of transmission and work out details to make your videoconference/broadcast a success. Contact Paul Iwancio at iwancio@umbc.edu, 410-455-3822.

UMBC Videoconference Rates

Please check our ratecard for Videoconference Rates.