Multipoint Video BridgeGuidelines and Procedures for Requesting a Multipoint Videoconference
Scheduling a Multipoint Videoconference:
To schedule the Multipoint Control Unit (MCU), please complete the
Multipoint Video Request form and submit online. You
will be notified by e-mail of your approval or disapproval within three (3) business days. A copy
of the approved form will then be forwarded to the videoconferencing bridge operator who will
be alerted to the potential video usage.
Manned operation of the MCU permits administrative videoconferences and distance education
courses to proceed from 8 am to 4:30 pm, M-F. The MCU's operation is not supported for administrative
meetings in the evening or on the weekend. The Center for Distance Education does support classes
in the evening, M-F.
Remember that the larger the group the more time necessary for a safe start. As an example,
a System-wide videoconference generally requires 30 minutes before all sites are securely connected.
It is the sole responsibility of the requesting individual or organization to assure that
remote site video facilities* (State System and/or non-System) are approved and available for
the requested conference. Any related technical support costs or special logistical requirements
are likewise the responsibility of the requesting entity.
* University personnel responsible for scheduling remote video facilities
can be contacted by using the following e-mail address: vconf@btcwcu.org.
If the videoconferencing scheduler or technician has questions with regard to the conference, please
direct all questions to the requestor.
The conference requestor would inform and notify the videoconference scheduler, as well as
the bridge operator at vconf@btcwcu.org of the following:
1) provide a list of all participating System or non-System remote sites; 2) indicate the date,
start and end time of the conference; 3) special requests (e.g., PowerPoint presentations identifying
location, etc.); and, 4) indicate video format. Click here to see
sample. The MCU offers multiple view modes: 2 symmetrical sites, 4 symmetrical sites, 5+1
mixed view images (5 small images arranged around one larger image) and 9 symmetrical sites.
Videoconference setup will begin at least one hour prior to start time of conference.
ATM attached sites will be "dialed into" by the bridge; these sites will only need to have
their equipment powered on. Please check with the support staff at your remote site if you do
not know if your system uses ATM or ISDN.
Sites attaching directly to the bridge by ISDN will dial into the bridge. The dial in phone
number for the connection will be assigned within three (3) working days after notification of
videoconference approval has been received by the bridge operator.
Sites connecting via ISDN to a VGate at a State System site "dialing into" or being "dialed
to" will be the decision of the University which controls the VGate.
It is good practice to have a backup plan in case the video bridge does not stay connected
for the entire duration scheduled. It is recommended that you schedule an audio conference bridge
in conjunction as a backup method if the video bridge fails.
Options for Audio Conferences:
Commonwealth Conference Operator
Scheduling: 717-787-6800; 717-787-2124; and, 717-787-2121.
Directions: indicate originator; billing telephone number; identify contact person; list names
and numbers in the sequence to be dialed; and, fax all information to 717-783-0584. Note: billed
via PANet. Commonwealth 48-60 parties.
To view all the
resources on the page, 
Video Request Form