Roanoke Times
Copyright (c) 1995, Landmark Communications, Inc.
DATE: TUESDAY, January 31, 1995 TAG: 9501310125
SECTION: EXTRA PAGE: 3 EDITION: METRO
SOURCE: David Butler
DATELINE: LENGTH: Medium
A: Video telephones have been "just around the corner" since the Picturephone won acclaim at the New York World's Fair way back in 1964. Although they're still not commonplace, the first model debuted more than seven years ago. At the push of a button, the user could transmit a still self-portrait to a black-and-white screen on the receiving telephone.
Today's models display motion video on a three-inch color screen. One company announced plans to introduce a six-incher next summer. It will feature an auxiliary camera input and a PCMCIA slot for options such as "V-mail" and electronic telephone directories.
Given the limitations of analog phone lines, there's a trade-off between motion (frame rate) and image detail (resolution). The current generation of videophones transmits a slightly grainy picture at 10 frames per second - adequate to keep the lips in sync with the voice. Slowing the frame rate will sharpen the image. However, motion will become noticeably jerky.
Although prices have begun to drop, videophones are still quite expensive at about $800. Leasing may be more prudent, especially considering the rapid pace of technological change. Many telephone retail outlets have public videophones. It's a great way for grandparents to get their first look at the new baby!
At least two companies have introduced still-frame video monitoring systems. This type of system is ideal for looking in on a vacation home or an elderly relative. You can set it up to automatically transmit images at regular intervals or in response to a security sensor. You can also activate the system from a touch-tone phone.
In business, eye contact and body language are paramount to effective communications. That's one reason executives spend so much time and money traveling. The videophone could easily pay for itself if it eliminates just one trip. On another front, the neighborhood video kiosk is changing the way banks and financial service companies interact with their customers. Customers can conduct business face-to-face without having to visit a branch office.
Business is also warming up to video conferencing. Individuals or small groups at distant locations can conduct a meeting over a high-speed network. Ideally, all participants will be able to see one another. An electronic "whiteboard" along with collaborative computer programs add interactivity to the meeting. Companies often rely on turnkey specialists rather than purchasing their own equipment.
With the latest generation of microprocessors and high-speed modems, it's now possible to use a multimedia PC as a videophone. Although most systems require digital phone lines (ISDN), video modems are available that can squeeze an acceptable picture over a regular phone line. However, don't rule out ISDN too quickly. In some cities, digital lines go for as little as $30 per month.
As telephone and cable companies extend high-speed networks to the home, you can expect to see videophones with high-quality images. Several companies are working on designs that will work in conjunction with a television, saving the cost of a dedicated display screen.
To receive a list of companies that manufacture videophones and PC-based video modems, please send $1.50 and a self-addressed envelope to David Butler F-446, Department TWN, 14713 Pleasant Hill Rd., Charlotte, N.C. 28278-7927. The list includes toll-free phone numbers and a summary of each company's products. You'll also receive information on remote video monitoring systems.
TechTalk: Conventional analog telephone lines are often referred to as POTS for Plain Old Telephone Service. Integrated Services Digital Network (ISDN) is the next generation of telephone technology. Each line supports two 64-kilobit per second data channels plus a 16-kbs control channel. Several voice and low-speed data lines can be derived from a single physical line.
by CNB