Just a few weeks ago I had an opportunity to learn more about how to configure Cisco’s Telepresence. That class was a great opportunity to learn more about what went into designing Cisco’s Telepresence and how it differs from others. On of the takeaways for me was that the system was built to feel as natural as possible, and really give the user the best experience they could possibly have. Some of details I thought I would share.
First of all, did you know that the resolution could actually be better than what it is, which is fantastic I must say. So why isn’t it? Think about what happens when you are up close and personal with someone that has a huge pimple with a white head that’s screaming “POP ME!” Most people cant take their eyes off the zit. So a more natural conversation would take place if the pimple were less visible. At least that’s what the instructor told everyone.
It kinda made me laugh a bit, but it did make sense. But enough of the joking around. Since I was learning about telepresence I thought I would just round up a few videos that show some of the other systems out there. Basically I turned off the sound because I didn’t want a commercial, I just wanted to see some of the systems. Lets take a look at some of them”
Polycom
The Polycom system looks to me like the Cisco Telepresence. The only thing I dont like is that its not totally natural. It looks like two conference room tables sitting next to each other whereas the Cisco Telepresence looks like one big oval table.
Tandberg
Ok, so in all fairness, this is a Cisco System now, but it is still very different from that of the Cisco Developed Telepresence. Can you say “Kirk to the bridge…?” It looks totally cool, and even Mac-like, but its kinda cold and a bit unnatural to me.
Cisco Telepresence
So this is the system that I have in Irvine and San Jose. It’s very natural to me, and even though its HD, you can’t see that big white head that I talked about earlier. It feels like you’re sitting right across the table and the lighting is very warm and soothing. I can say 1st hand that I have sat in from of a Telepresence for over 8 hours and was not fried like you would be if you were to sit in front of a monitor all day.
HP Halo
I don’t have any background on the HP system but from the videos I notice that its got a warm look to it just as the Cisco Telepresence does. The room tones seem to be along the same lines also. It’s definitely not like the Tandberg system.
Conclusion
I think they are all cool! If I could, I would own them all….without paying for them of course. I’m just a lowly blogger. At any rate, I use the Cisco Telepresence and can’t imagine not having one anymore. I hope to seen get a closer look at the HP Halo Solution. I love this Technology.
