Video Conferencing Resources – P

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Packet

A sequenced of digitised information that is sent and switched as a unit. Computer data is sent via packets. The traffic on the network is divided into small pieces called packets that are multiplexed onto high capacity inter machine connections. A packet, which usually contains only a few hundred bytes of data, carries identification that enables computers on the network to know whether it is destined for them or how to send it on to its correct destination.

Packet Switching

A technique for transmitting data in which the message is subdivided into smaller units called packets.

PAL (Phase-Alternative Line System)

The TV transmission standard for Western Europe (except France, which uses SECAM). PAL TV scans at 625 lines per frame and displays frames at the rate of 25 per second.

Pan

To pivot a camera in a horizontal direction.

Pixel

This is the smallest addressable display unit available at a given video address ability. There is no physical thing on a display that can be called a pixel. Pixels exist only in the graphics controller bitmap. One pixel usually consists of 1.2 or more dot triads. Flat panel displays are a special case where individual pixels correspond directly to a picture element on the display.

Point-to-Multipoint Videoconference

Videoconference between multiple locations using a bridge.

Point-to-Point Videoconference

Videoconference between two sites. (Compare with Multipoint Videoconference).

POTS (Plain Old Telephone Service)

Conventional analogue narrowband telephone line using twisted-pair copper wire for transmitting voice calls.

PPP (Point-to-Point Protocol)

A communication protocol that allows a computer using TCP/IP to connect directly to the Internet new PPP/MP also allows different remote access devices to communicate with each other.

PPP/MP (Point-to-Point Protocol/Multi-link Protocol)

The new Point-to-Point Protocol for ISDN connection that allows use of both B-Channel for remote access to the Internet. PPP/MP also allows different remote access devices to communicate with each other.

Protocol

This is a standard procedure agreed upon by regulating agencies, companies, or standards setting bodies to regulate transmission and therefore to achieve intercommunications between systems or networks.

PTZ (Pan, Tilt, and Zoom)

Remote control features that typically come with high-quality cameras that are used in room-sized videoconferencing systems.