Mathematics Taught Course Centre

Taught Course Centre Details

This page describes the technical details of the taught course centre.  It is intended to give useful information to remote nodes who are intending to connect to our videoconferencing system.

Configuration

In normal day-to-day operation the TCC uses access grid technology for video conferencing using IOCOM software.  The meetings or lectures take place in pre-booked AGSC based Virtual Venues.  The lecture or meeting may be recorded if requested in advance and permission from participants is obtained.

The TCC normally transmits video streams using H.261 and audio as G.711 for compatibility with the freely available AG3 software.  Other protocols are available for use, however they are currently unsuitable for recording and later viewing.

Each session is paired with a Jabber session using the server indicated by AGSC Virtual Venue Server.  The Jabber session allows instant messaging with other participants allowing fault diagnosis or communication during a session.

The TCC is set up with a SMART Board^TM and Sympodium that can be viewed locally and transmitted to all participants of the meeting.  Currently this is transmitted using the IOCOM proprietary desktop transmission protocol.  There will soon be an option to receive these using H.261, allowing the AG3 tools view them.

Compatibility

The TCC is also able to perform native video conferencing using the AG3 software.

• IP based H.323 clients (i.e. users Polycom or Tandberg codecs) can join to the grid using a bridge.  Details can be found at http://www.ja.net/services/video/agsc/services/h323andag.html.
   
• The room is also able to join an IP based H.323 meeting.
  To call accessgrid.maths.ox.ac.uk, use the IP address: 163.1.151.203.
   
• JANET also supply an EVO soon to be replaced by VRVS to Access Grid bridge.  More details can be found at http://www.ja.net/services/video/agsc/services/vrvstoag.htmll.

Availability

Access to the facilities are strictly controlled and booked through the TCC timetabling system.  The information there shows important information regarding virtual venue and contact information.

Due to security implications, the TCC operates normally between 1000 and 1600hrs UK local time, although an hour flexibility either way is possible with advance warning.

At all times there will be a technician present who will ensure the system is working correctly throughout the session.  Due to the necessity of working equipment during term-time, please refrain from touching any of the AV equipment inside the TCC.  If you require a different audio or video configuration, please talk to the technician who will be available throughout your session and give useful advice.

There are other access grid nodes within Oxford University that may be used in case grid facilties are required and our node is unavailable.

• OeRC http://www.oerc.ox.ac.uk/resources/access-grid-video-conferencing/ag-details