Videoconferencing

Scheduling an Event Using the IVN Bridge

The process of joining three or more sites into a single videoconference requires scheduling of the IVN Bridge (also called the Multipoint Conferencing Unit or MCU) and scheduling five business days prior to start date. Once the MCU has been scheduled for an event the bridge will automatically connect all sites into the conference. When making a point-to-point videoconference the bridge will not automatically connect you. The host site must call/dial/connect the other site.

• Decide which sites you will be contacting for your conference; Research
  Centers, Extension Offices, NDSU Campuses, Tribal College classrooms, K-12 schools, and other sites.

• Must contact site coordinators to determne if the site is available to avoid conflict.

• IVN has a maximum of 12 sites per conference. You can schedule more than 12 sites but it is highly recommend limiting your conference to 12 sites or less to avoid audio and video technical difficulties.

• Each site must be reserved and scheduled in advance. 

• Decide on a host site for the videoconference. Typically, this site facilitates the videoconference. It also serves as a point of contact with IVN if a connectivity problem occurs.

• After you have reserved all sites with site coordinators, fill out the IVN-NDSU Ag Consortium schedule request form. List ALL sites in the conference, the host site, your preferred date and time, the event facilitators name, e-mail, telephone and fax of the organization sponsoring the event. Save and e-mail the schedule request form to the Ag Consortium Scheduler, Linda McCaw (linda.mccaw@ndsu.edu)

• Request form must be e-mailed at least one week prior to the event date.

• You will receive the videoconference confirmation via e-mail.

• Prior to the video conference, learn the correct procedure for problem resolution and operation of the conference equipment. If your video conference involves numerous sites and you plan to utilize a Powerpoint from the new VSX model camera, you may want to have an alternative method to connect the computer to the camera. You are not guaranteed your call will be handled by the newer IVN Bridge when it involves numerous sites and the older Viewstation cameras. Your call may be routed through the older IVN Bridge which cannot properly bridge the H.239, i.e., the Polycom People + Content feature. If you experience technical problems, the IVN Trouble Line is (701) 777-6486.

Changes in the Schedule

Submit changes at least two business days prior to event. Click here for Ag Consortium Change Form if you would like to add or delete a site at least 24 hours in advance of video conference.