Megaconference

The Megaconference, founded and organized by Robert S. Dixon, is an annual large-scale, multi-site conferencing event bringing together participants to promote, discuss, and test all aspects of IP-based H.323. Participants connect to the event simultaneously through a system of distributed H.323, session initiation protocol (SIP), and other compatible Multipoint Control Units (MCUs), located around the world that cascade together to create the largest forum in the field of Internet videoconferencing.[1]

History

The first Megaconference debuted in October 1999 during the Internet2 fall conference in Seattle, where participants presented songs, dances and skits to 60 linked sites.[2]

Ohio State University and the Ohio Supercomputer Center (OSC) provide the hardware and the technical support for the Megaconference, including Multipoint Control coordination and network operations. The Megaconference runs on the Internet2 Commons network, which sits on the OSC network. OSC Networking provides the 24/7 Global H.323 network operations center (NOC) for testing, network operations, engineering and support for the Megaconference.

Participation

Anyone using H.323 or compatible videoconferencing equipment is able to participate or submit a proposal for “interactions” or interactive presentation that must involve at least a total of two locations.[3] Presentation topics range from how groups use Internet videoconferencing in real-world situations for teaching, learning, and sharing knowledge and information. Observers may also watch a live stream or recorded version of the event.

Spin-offs

Megaconference Jr.

In 2004, Megaconference Jr became the first global web-based videoconference for students in kindergarten to grade twelve. Student teams organize and coordinate the event, as well as provide troubleshooting for technical requirements.[4]

Megaconference Jr's last year of operation was 2013. The former website of the organization is now being used by a German plastic surgery medical conference.

Gigaconference

Debuting in 2005, the Gigaconference showcases the use of high-end, high-performance videoconferencing equipment. Participating sites give presentations on topics like animated videos, musical performances, classroom teaching experiences, and remote medical collaboration. Unlike the Megaconference, participants require a connection speed of at least 1 Megabit per second, in addition to 4 CIF resolution, or 30 frames per second or higher.[5]

References

  1. ↑ https://www.oar.net/press/megaconference_vii_set_december_1
  2. ↑ http://www.h323forum.org/news/RADVISION-ViDeNet_project.pdf
  3. ↑ http://archive.osc.edu/press/releases/2006/megacon.shtml
  4. ↑ Fratt, L. (2004). Megaconference Jr. = Mega Success. District Administration, 40(7), 12
  5. ↑ http://archive.osc.edu/press/releases/2005/gigaconference.shtml
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