Video Conferencing

One person may be at headquarters. Another may be working from home. And there is the client from the opposite side of the world. So it's nearly impossible to hold meetings with everyone in the same room anymore. However, if a reliable video conferencing solution is in place, calls go straight to the point, without wasted time having to be spent fixing audio, moving laptops around, or repeating half the conversation. At PMC Telecom, we provide communication systems for both larger or smaller spaces and hybrid meeting rooms across the UK.

A business video conferencing system enables meetings through live video, audio, and shared content. In a business setting, that usually means a camera, microphones, speakers, a screen, and software working as one setup. An internal meeting, project discussion, client call or training session can be held by companies from any part of the country with the utilisation of these systems.

Businesses typically have the option of room-based, personal, and integrated systems. So, when it comes to the right type of video conference device, there are a few things to think about. First, how big is the meeting room? Then, what type of software are they using? And finally, how many people are expected to attend the call?

Designed for shared spaces, these devices enable multiple people to participate in a meeting together. These video conference systems can be equipped with cameras, speakerphones, screens and touch controls. They perform smoothly in various client-facing spaces where reliability and presentation quality matter.

These are USB cameras, webcams, speakerphones, headsets, or smaller all-in-one units designed for individual use. They suit home workers, private offices and hot-desking facilities where users need simple, reliable video conferencing equipment and no full-room installation.

Within a single AV conferencing system, there are multiple discrete components that are integrated:

• Conference cameras capture the room and show participants clearly on screen.
• Microphones pick up speech from across the table or throughout the room.
• Speakers ensure that everyone in the meeting can hear the person speaking.
• Displays show remote participants, presentations, and shared content.
• Control panels help with starting meetings and managing calls.
• Mounts, cables, and accessories assist with a clean, practical installation.

When these components function effectively, a video conferencing solution can facilitate a seamless and user-friendly experience, seamlessly transitioning from one meeting to another for any business.

Although business conferencing systems differ in design and price, several factors are important for the workplace:

• Clear video for polished visuals
• Auto-framing to keep speakers in view
• Noise filtering to reduce background sound in busy environments
• Echo cancellation for clear sound
• Platform compatibility with Microsoft Teams, Zoom and other services
• Cable-free content sharing for presentations and collaborations
• Remote management tools to provide support across several rooms

These functions are particularly effective in hybrid spaces where some participants are physically present and others participate virtually.

Start with the room: a compact camera bar with built-in microphones and speakers would be ideal for a small meeting space. For larger venues, it is preferable to opt for wider camera coverage and more robust voice pickup, given that individuals may be seated at greater distances from the screen. Before choosing hardware, check the space, how many people join calls, and if devices can be used with Teams Room or Zoom Room systems.

Everyone can benefit from using high-quality video conferencing. Starting from day-to-day communication to long-term cost control, advantages are:

• Support for remote and hybrid work collaboration;
• Reduced travel time for the meetings;
• Possibility for teams to respond faster and stay updated;
• Easy connection with clients, suppliers, and partners;
• A more professional meeting experience;
• Access to training, interviews, and multi-site discussions.

Rather than being an occasional add-on, video collaboration tools are now a standard part of many organisations.

When selecting video conferencing equipment, consider your specific needs, room size, and budget. Here are some top brands we stock and some key features to look for...

Logitech - Known for its user-friendly and affordable solutions, Logitech offers a wide range of products, from webcams to conference cameras and speakerphones.

Poly (formerly Polycom) - Are a leading provider of professional-grade video conferencing solutions, Poly offers high-quality audio and video equipment for various room sizes.

Yealink -  Specialise in enterprise-level video conferencing solutions, providing advanced features like AI noise cancellation and intelligent speaker tracking.

Jabra -  are renowned for high-quality audio solutions, including headsets and speakerphones, which are essential for clear communication in video conferences.

Cisco - A major player in the networking industry, Cisco offers a comprehensive range of video conferencing solutions, from small huddle rooms to large conference rooms.

Resolution - Higher resolution (e.g., 1080p or 4K) ensures sharper and more detailed images.

Field of View - A wider field of view allows you to capture more people in the room.

Low-Light Performance - Good low-light performance ensures clear video quality even in dimly lit environments.

Noise Cancellation - Reduces background noise, improving audio clarity.

Echo Cancellation - Minimizes echo and feedback, enhancing the overall audio experience.

Microphone Pickup Range - Ensure the microphone can pick up voices from all participants in the room.

• Plug-and-Play Setup - Simple installation and configuration.
• Intuitive Controls - Easy-to-use interface for managing calls and settings.

Platform Compatibility - Ensure compatibility with your preferred video conferencing platform (e.g., Zoom, Microsoft Teams, Google Meet).

Device Compatibility - Check compatibility with your computer, laptop, or tablet.

• AI Features - AI-powered features like automatic framing, speaker tracking, and noise cancellation can enhance the overall meeting experience.
• Security - Look for features like encryption and secure authentication to protect your sensitive information.