With the FIC’s Tandberg 6000 video conference system real-time face to face communication via the internet is simple. The FIC provides tech support, you are not expected to run the equipment yourself.

The Tandberg is a cutting-edge system that makes videoconferencing remarkably easy. To get connected, all you need is the IP or ISDN number of the party you’re contacting, and the date and time you need it to happen. Be sure to note time zone differences.

Arrive early if you’re presenting something so you’ll have time to set up. You’ll then have full-screen video, voice and data sharing (i.e., documents, presentations, and databases). The system’s flat panel display lets you simultaneously see the presenter on one side of the screen and any presentation materials on the other; a document camera and Windows PC are provided, along with an input port for your laptop to facilitate document sharing and presentations. And with the Tandberg’s wide angle camera and speakers, along with a “smart” noise-canceling mike, you can host group meetings or individual conferences.

Purchase of the Tandberg and installation of required infrastructure were supported by grants from Ford Motor Company and Applied Materials to the Mechanical Engineering Department’s Project PROCEED, along with the School of Engineering Vision Plan funds.

Dr. Phil Schmidt, faculty director of PROCEED, emphasizes the teaching potential of the new facility: “The new Tandberg system, which is really the top-of-the-line, will allow us to implement one of the central elements of PROCEED, permitting our students and faculty to communicate with project sponsors on a face-to-face basis as easily as dialing a telephone. We’re very excited about the new dimension in collaborative education that the system will bring to us.” Schmidt points out that live videoconferencing will also offer many opportunities for enhanced research collaboration to School of Engineering faculty, staff, and students.

The Tandberg system is installed in ETC 2.146C. A video conference for the purpose of teaching a class will be free of charge. For any other purpose there is a $60/hr. charge for use of the facility for internet (IP) video conferences. In addition, users will be expected to cover line charges (similar to long-distance charges) for ISDN-based conferencing. To learn more about FIC’s videoconferencing capabilities or to schedule a videoconference, contact the FIC’s Jack Prather at This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it or at 232-1531. Please contact us as far in advance as possible.