Tag Archive for: Remote Learning

Logitech Business Webcam Comparison

Logitech Business Webcams for Hybrid Work – Side by Side Comparison

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There is no question that video conferencing will continue to be a massive piece of organizations’ overall hybrid and remote work strategy. Whether you are using Microsoft Teams, Zoom, Cisco Webex, or one of the multiple other video collaboration platforms, your team members will need webcams.

Logitech is the undisputed leader when it comes to webcams for business. Their current line up consists of the C505e, C920e, C925e, C930e and BRIO. These models were designed specifically for enterprise customers and mass deployments. They are packaged in small cardboard boxes to make it easier to open, manage, store, stack, and ship, which is great for IT Departments and deployment teams.

The Logitech Business Webcams are being added to the growing list of Logitech devices that are able to be monitored and managed via Logitech Sync.  Logitech Sync is a remote monitoring and device management tool that makes it easy to support large-scale video deployments from a simple browser-based interface.

  • Logitech Brio 4K Webcam
  • Logitech C930e Business Webcam
  • Logitech C925e Webcam
  • Logitech Video Conferencing Logitech Business Webcams
  • Logitech B525 vs C505e Logitech Business Webcams

Sync provides the ability to view the functional status of every connected device within the organization from a web browser, simplifying tasks like firmware updates, feature enablement and troubleshooting while minimizing support visits to individual locations.

With Sync it is simple to update video devices in hundreds (or thousands) of rooms anywhere in the world, and as fast as updating a single device in person. Contact us to learn more about Logitech Sync for your organization.

Logitech Business Webcams

Logitech Business Webcams offer high-precision optics with autofocus for remarkable resolution and clarity to help you look your best. With Logitech RightLight™, you can be seen clearly in low light and bright sunlight. Plug-and-play compatibility means your webcam is simple to use out of the box and performs seamlessly with virtually any video conferencing software. All Logitech business webcams include three-year warranties, and their top-of-the-line models can update firmware in the field.

Logitech Business Webcams are compatible with most common operating systems including Mac and Windows. The C925e, C930 and Brio are Certified for Skype® for Business and Microsoft® Teams, Cisco® compatible and built for enhanced integration with Logitech Collaboration Program members. Brio can even integrate with Microsoft® Windows Hello™ to log onto computers using facial recognition—no passwords needed.

Priced to fit all budgets

Logitech Video Collaboration Kits

Get a complete audio and video solution with Logitech Video Collaboration Kits that include a Logitech Zone Wired or Wireless Headset and a C925e or Brio 4K webcam! This is a great option to simplify ordering by including the headset and webcam in a single SKU. Call One, Inc. can ship anywhere in the US, business, and residential addresses. We can deliver these kits right to your employees’ doorstep.  

Zone Wireless headset provides the versatility to wirelessly connect to your computer, tablet, and smartphone simultaneously and seamlessly switch between connected devices at will. The 30m wireless range provides freedom to roam while staying connected. Transition between phone chats, video conferencing, music, and general noise reduction throughout your day—all with the same headset and happy-making acoustic performance.

Zone Wireless is designed for use all day, every day. The silicone-padded headband is lightweight and provides just the right clamping force for a fit that is so comfortable you might forget you are wearing a high-performance headset. Soft leatherette ear pads are cushiony and breathable, so your ears don’t get hot. Zone Wireless blocks sound from the moment you put it on, and the foldable design makes it handy to stow when you take the headset off.

Zone Wired headsets are Designed for busy open workspaces, Logitech® Zone Wired is a USB headset that delivers premium audio and reliable call clarity with advanced noise-canceling mic technology. Additionally, it is lightweight, stylish, and super comfortable for all-day use.

Logitech Business Webcams Comparison

How do they perform?

We have created YouTube videos to show each individual camera and one video that compares the webcams side-by-side! If you would like to learn more about Logitech Business Webcams, need mass deployment support, or would like information on all of Logitech’s Video Collaboration solutions for desktop and small to large meeting rooms, Contact Us! Enjoy the videos!

Videos

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Jabra Evolve2 30 | Outstanding Noise Canceling Headset

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In today’s work from anywhere landscape, the Jabra Evolve2 30 is engineered to keep you productive. The headset is lightweight, portable, reliable, and comfortable. With the Evolve2 30, your team can look forward to outstanding calls, superior audio, all-day comfort and noise isolation for instant concentration anywhere.

The Evolve2 30 series is available in USB-A or USB-C, with single or dual ear headband wearing styles and UC or Microsoft Teams variants. There’s an integrated Busylight that turns on automatically when you’re on a call, and you can turn it on manually to signal ‘do not disturb’ mode. But how well does the noise cancelling mic perform? Stick around until the end for a link to our review video.

  • Jabra Evolve2 30 Series
  • Jabra Evolve2 30 Series
  • Jabra Evolve2 30 Series
  • Jabra Evolve2 30 Series


Jabra Evolve2 30 Features

  • Lightweight USB Business Headset available in UC and MS Teams Variants
  • Plug-and-play connectivity to your computer or mobile device via USB-A or USB-C
  • 2 built-in Microphones filters 12% more background conversation noise for clear, collaborative calls.
  • Integrated Busylight
  • 28mm Speakers for outstanding audio.
  • Future-proof tech that gets better with age thanks to an advanced digital chipset.
  • Noise Isolating Design
  • Reinforced Steel Headband Slider
  • Cable length – 1.5 m / 4.9 ft

Danny’s Opinion on the Jabra Evolve2 30 Series

I was thoroughly impressed with the latest addition to the Jabra Evolve2 Series of headsets and would recommend to anyone looking for a great value on a high-quality USB headset. The Jabra Evolve2 30 is great for use to work from anywhere including contact centers, work from home and in the office. Based on the low cost, light weight, comfort, strong audio performance, and compatibility across all major communications platforms, it’s a winner. The noise canceling mic performance of the Evolve2 30 was so impressive I will be creating another video comparing it to the older Evolve 30 II and new Evolve2 40. For now check out the video below to hear for yourselves how well it performed.

If you would like to discuss deploying Jabra Evolve2 30 in your business, contact center or home office, contact us!

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Logitech C930e Business Webcam header

Logitech C930e Webcam

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The Logitech C930e Webcam is one of the five current Logitech Business Webcams models that includes the C505e, C920e, C925e, C930e & BRIO. The C930e falls into the “Better” category in this line up just behind the BRIO. This webcam is certified and compatible with all major video collaboration platforms to include Microsoft Teams, Zoom, Cisco Webex, RingCentral and more.

The C930e features dual integrated omnidirectional mics that capture audio clearly from up to 3.3ft / 1 meter away so conversations sound natural and clear. For loud environments, the Logitech Zone Wired or Zone Wireless Headsets and C930e webcam make an awesome video collaboration solution! 

Manage multiple Logitech personal collaboration devices* with Logi Tune. Available in desktop and mobile app versions, Logi Tune provides an elegantly intuitive dashboard for easy setup, control, and customization. Test your headset mic and sound, customize EQ, and adjust sidetone to hear your own voice at just the right volume. For webcams, control framing, adjust focus and choose a color preset to look your best. Logi Tune also makes firmware updates one-touch simple.

* Check for supported headsets and webcams

  • Logitech C930e Business Webcam
  • Logitech C930e Business Webcam
  • Logitech C930e Business Webcam

Download Logi Tune

Logitech C930e Business Webcam Features

  • HD 1080p video quality at 30 frames-per-second – Brings life-like HD video to conference calls, enabling expressions, non-verbal cues, and movements to be seen clearly.
  • Logitech RightLight 2 technology and autofocus – Webcam intelligently adjusts to improve visual quality in low light at multiple distances.
  • Wide field-of-view for business webcam – Enjoy an extended view – 90 degrees FOV – perfect for presenting using a whiteboard or doing demos.
  • 4X digital zoom in Full HD – 4X zoom at 1080p provides the highest level of detail for your calls, visuals, and presentations.
  • Professional-grade Certifications – Certified for Skype for Business, Cisco® compatible and enhanced integration with Logitech Collaboration Program (LCP) members integrated experience with most business-grade video conferencing platforms.
  • Premium glass lens – Enjoy razor-sharp images even when showing documents up close, a whiteboard drawing or a product demo.
  • Convenient privacy shutter – Easy lens enclosure for added privacy and security. Plug-and-play USB connectivity Easily connects to a PC or Mac® with no additional software required
  • Multiple mounting options – Freedom to mount the camera wherever it works best – LCD screen, notebook, or tabletop – by using the attached clip or the tripod embedded thread.

3-year limited hardware warranty

At only $129.99 the Logitech C930e is accessible for anyone looking to upgrade their video meetings to business-class. If you are a business and/or IT decision maker with mass deployment needs, contact us directly for support.

Check out the video below that provides and overview of the C930e, management settings available via LogiTune and includes video quality and mic tests!

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Logitech C925e Webcam

Logitech C925e Webcam

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The Logitech C925e Webcam is the “just right” choice when it comes to Logitech Business Webcams. It sits in between the basic and good models C505e/C920e and better and best models C930e/Brio. It’s compatible and certified with all popular applications like Microsoft Teams, Zoom, Cisco Webex, Google Meet and more! Before we get started on the review, lets look at the specs.

Features:

Logitech C925e MSRP: $99.99

  • HD 1080p video at up to 30 frames per second: Full HD 1080p 30 fps makes a vivid impression every time with true-to-life video calls.
  • Easy-to-use: Simple to set up and use, USB plug-and-play connection makes video meetings easy.
  • UVC H.264 encoding technology: Frees up PC bandwidth by putting video processing within the camera.
  • Convenient privacy shutter: Easy lens closure for added privacy and security.
  • 78° field of view: See more without having to reposition the camera or crop and zoom.
  • Logitech RightLight 2 technology and autofocus: Webcam intelligently adjusts to improve visual quality in low light and backlit situations at multiple distances.
  • Omni-directional dual stereo microphones: Designed to capture sound for clear communication in larger spaces like offices and small conference rooms.
  • Multiple mounting options: Freedom to mount the camera wherever it works best — LCD screen, notebook, or tabletop — by using the attached clip or the tripod embedded thread.
  • Professional-grade certifications: Leading business certifications (Certified for Skype for Business, Optimized for Microsoft® Lync® 2013, Cisco Jabber® and WebEx® compatible2 ) and enhanced integration with Logitech Collaboration Program (LCP) members1 ensure an integrated experience with most business-grade video conferencing platforms
  • Logitech C925e Webcam

Honest Review

When you can’t meet in person, this is the ideal webcam for solo use or small group use. The full 1080p HD video at 30 frames per second delivers true-to-life clarity, and in our professional opinion, it almost looks 4k.

With low MSRP, simple plug and play, integrated microphone, and crisp video quality, Logitech knocked it out of the park with this webcam. You truly get what you pay for! Interested in seeing more? Fee free to reach out to us for more info on the C925e. If you would like to purchase the Logitech C925e, you can order it online here. We have a full video where test and overview the Logitech C925e Webcam. Check it out below:

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Poly Studio P5 Overview header

Poly Studio P5 Overview | How Does it Perform?

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The Poly Studio P5 webcam is part of a broad Poly Studio P Series portfolio of personal video conferencing devices. In this blog/video, we provide an overview of the P5 webcam, pricing, management via Poly Lens Desktop and finally we test the video and audio quality to include a side by side between built-in laptop camera and Poly Studio P5.

The P Series

With the Studio P Series, make the most of video calls wherever you’re working. The Poly Studio P Series personal video devices ensure you always look and sound your best. High-performance cameras compensate for lighting imbalances, while Poly’s premium audio is fine-tuned to help you focus and eliminate distractions. IT gains robust cloud management and troubleshooting of every device from anywhere.

  • Poly Solutions
  • Poly Studio P5
  • Poly Studio P5 Poly Studio P5 Overview

What does the Poly Studio P5 feature?

  • Precision-tuned webcam
  • Status LED on the camera
  • Built in USB Port for connecting to a Poly headset
  • Always look professional with exceptional camera optics that are optimized for video conferencing
  • Make sure you’re heard clearly with a built-in directional microphone that focuses on your voice, not the noise around you
  • Enhance security and privacy, and ensure you are in control of when you are on camera with the integrated privacy shutter
  • Poly Lens cloud management gives IT powerful tools to manage and track devices from anywhere

Poly Studio P5

The Poly Studio P5 webcam ensures you look your best on video calls at home, in the office, or wherever you’re working. Exceptional camera optics are fine-tuned so you always come across clearly with a professional-quality image. Brilliant colors and automatic low light compensation deliver excellent video quality no matter where you need to take a call. The directional microphone focuses on your voice and not the noise around you. An integrated privacy shutter keeps you in control of when you are on camera for enhanced security and privacy. For IT, Poly Lens cloud management provides robust tools to manage and track devices from anywhere.

  • Exceptional camera optics
  • Automatic low-light compensation
  • Built-in directional microphone
  • Integrated privacy shutter
  • USB connection to wireless headset adapter

Take a look below at our video review of the Poly Studio P5 below and subscribe to our Youtube channel for similar videos. If you have any additional questions regarding the Studio P5, feel free to contact us.

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Logitech C920e Webcam

Logitech C920e Webcam – How Does it Perform?

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The Logitech C920e Business Webcam is a work-from-anywhere HD 1080p business webcam that surpasses the video and sound quality provided by most laptops. The low price point is ideal for deployment at scale. The C920e is ideal for displaying individuals in a well-balanced frame. The fixed 78° field of view captures a “just-right” view of the user and their environment while also providing sufficient room to visually share projects and other items of interest. There are dual integrated omnidirectional mics that can be easily enabled with Logi Tune Desktop app. When activated, the mics are optimized to clearly capture audio from up to one meter (3.3ft) away.

  • Logitech Video Conferencing
  • Logitech C920e Webcam
  • Logitech C920e Webcam
  • Logitech C920e Webcam

A rundown on the C920e

  • C920e is a work-from-anywhere HD 1080p webcam
  • 78° field of view
  • includes dual integrated omnidirectional mics that can be easily enabled with the Logi Tune Desktop app
  • Built-in HD autofocus

VERSATILE MOUNTING OPTIONS

Mount the webcam wherever it works best: screen, notebook, or tabletop. C920e is designed with a sturdy, adjustable clip that makes it easy to mount on any laptop or external monitor. Integrated tripod threads provide extra versatility to mount the webcam on a tabletop or full-size tripod as well. (Tripod sold separately)

ATTACHABLE PRIVACY SHADE

C920e features an attachable privacy screen that flips up and down to cover or expose the lens. A simple glance at the physical cover confirms for sure if the lens is able to see into your space or not.

BUSINESS READY BY DESIGN

The Logitech C920e Webcam works with all popular video calling applications, including BlueJeans, Cisco Webex®, Fuze, Google Meet, GoToMeeting®, Lifesize Cloud, Microsoft® Teams, Pexip, RingCentral Video, Skype™ for Business, Vidyo, and Zoom to ensure compatibility and seamless integration in the workplace. For the $70 price-tag, this webcam puts out a Stellar image. Not only that, it has decent audio quality too. It’s a no brainer! Check out how it performs below. Thanks for tuning in!

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ALL NEW Poly Studio P Series and Bundles – Personal Video Devices

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Poly has introduced new solutions for the new and next normal! The Poly Studio P Series a series of personal video conferencing devices aimed to make remote feel less distant by providing professional-grade video devices for wherever work happens.

Hopefully, I get my hands on these devices soon so I can put out some videos to show the features, video and quality. For now, let’s take a look at what’s coming! Introducing the Poly Studio P Series!

Poly Studio P5

Poly Studio P Series

The Poly Studio P5 is a professional webcam that is designed for optimal performance during video calls.

  • The exceptional camera optics are optimized for video conferencing, giving users confidence they will always present a professional image.
  • Proper light exposure is maintained, even in darker rooms, with automatic low-light compensation. This is especially important in home offices, where the lighting in the room is typically insufficient.
  • Brilliant colors are designed to make you look your best and stand out from the background.
  • The camera field of view is 80 degrees – designed to show just you, but not too much of your surroundings.
  • The built-in direction microphone makes sure you’re heard clearly by focusing on your voice, and not the noise around you
  • For the best audio experience, Poly recommends you pair the Studio P5 up with one of the Poly headsets or personal speakerphones. Poly has made setup even easier by including a USB port right on the camera.
  • The status LED gives you quick confirmation of your call status and whether you’re on mute.
  • The camera body secures to the mounting clamp using a unique magnetized design, so it’s easy to set up and fits securely atop your laptop or display.
  • For added flexibility, you could also choose to attach it to a tripod mount.
  • The overall design is small and rugged, so it’s easy to take with you if you’re going between home and the office, or on the road
  • The Poly Lens Desktop app not only changes settings and keeps the camera’s firmware updated, but also helps with workspace setup and offer valuable health and wellness tips.
  • The Poly Lens cloud management gives IT powerful tools to manage and track devices from anywhere.
  • List Price $129
Poly Studio P5 graph

To make it easier to order and deploy, Poly is introducing the Poly Studio P5 Kits. Everything you need for a great audio and video experience, plus robust cloud management, all in one box that’s easy to buy and set up. There will be a range of options to support any workstyle.

Poly Studio P Series

POLY STUDIO P5 KIT
with Blackwire 3210

Professional webcam and single-ear corded headset

List Price $149
Poly Studio P Series

POLY STUDIO P5 KIT
with Blackwire 3325

Professional webcam and stereo corded headset

List Price $179

Poly Studio P Series

POLY STUDIO P5 KIT
with Voyager 4220 UC

Professional webcam and stereo wireless headset

List Price $269

Poly Studio P Series

POLY STUDIO P5 KIT
with Poly Sync 20+

Professional webcam and smart speakerphone

List Price $239

Poly Studio P15

Poly Studio P Series P15

The Poly Studio P15 is ideal for dedicated home offices and enclosed workspaces looking for the best audio and video performance. It includes everything you need in one sleek device, with advanced features that deliver a top-of-the-line experience. Just place it right on top of your display, connect to power and USB to your laptop, and you’re ready to go. You can even tripod-mount it for added flexibility. And just like all products in Studio P Series, the P15 can be remotely managed by IT using Poly Lens, including the advanced audio and video features.

The Poly Studio P15 is ideal for dedicated home offices and enclosed workspaces looking for the best audio and video performance. It includes everything you need in one sleek device, with advanced features that deliver a top-of-the-line experience. Just place it right on top of your display, connect to power and USB to your laptop, and you’re ready to go. You can even tripod-mount it for added flexibility. And just like all products in Studio P Series, the P15 can be remotely managed by IT using Poly Lens, including the advanced audio and video features.

  • 4K Resolution
  • High-performance image sensor
  • Optimized field of view
  • Automatic low-light compensation and brilliant colors
  • Automatic camera framing
Poly P15

Automatic camera framing is technology first developed for Poly’s meeting room solutions. In a personal use case, you want to be sure the camera is framed properly, even when you aren’t staying still. You may want to stand up while presenting. Or perhaps you have and adjustable standing desk. Or maybe you just don’t want to feel forced to stay glued to your chair all day. Studio P15 senses when you aren’t centered on camera and automatically adjusts. So all you have to worry about is the content of your meeting, and the system makes sure you’re seen clearly.

  • Integrated privacy shutter
  • Integrated speaker with acoustic suspension
  • Advanced microphone array
  • NoiseBlockAI and Acoustic Fence technology

NoiseBlockAI listens for your voice and filters out other sounds in your workspace that could be a distraction. This includes keyboard typing, paper shuffling, fans and heaters, and other noises that are common in personal workspaces. Acoustic Fence listens for sounds and voices coming from outside your workspace – side conversations, other family members in your house, airplane and traffic noise, and more. These two technologies work together to keep the distractions that often occur when working remote from becoming a distraction during your calls. The list price for the Poly Studio P15 is $599

Poly Studio P21

P21

The Poly Studio P21 is ideal for users who want one device that handles the entire calling experience – video, audio, and display, all in one. Just plug it into power and connect your laptop over a single USB cable, and that’s it – you’re ready to go! Use any video app on your laptop, and Studio P21 gives you a dedicated display, and handles the entire audio and video experience. It’s the perfect balance between the simplicity of a dedicated video system, with the flexibility of working with any video app of your PC or Mac. When you’re not in meetings, you can use it as a second display for your laptop to give you more screen space. Plus, the thoughtful, stylish design will fit right into any workspace.

P21
  • Everything you need in one sleek, stylish device
  • Simple to set up and connect
  • Works with any app
  • Dedicated video display when you’re in calls, additional PC/Mac display when you’re not
  • 21-inch enterprise-grade display
  • Exceptional camera optics
  • Integrated ambient lighting
  • Powerful stereo speakers and microphone array
  • Easy to access controls put volume and mute right at your fingertips
  • The stand has mobile phone charging built right in, which is ideal if you are running back and forth in between meetings
  • The large LED status bar gives you quick confirmation of your call status and whether you’re on mute.
  • Extra USB ports built into the back allow you to connect other peripherals and free up the limited ports on your laptop or dock
  • And like with all Studio P products, the integrated privacy shutter provides extra privacy and security
  • List Price $815

If you would like to learn more about the new Poly Studio P Series solutions and when they will be available fill out the form to be notified or contact us directly.

    Remember Huddle Rooms

    Remember when Huddle Rooms were all the rage?

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    Remember when huddle rooms were all the rage? All the top research and analyst firms had a ton of statistics like there were 32+ million huddle rooms globally with less than two percent being video enabled and that huddle-room meetings would grow exponentially to represent almost 70% of all video conferencing room meetings by 2022. Those statistics had manufacturers and businesses working overtime to ensure huddle rooms had the appropriate tech to support this boom.

    No one expected what happened in 2020. Video conferencing did increase exponentially however, not in huddle rooms. Instead, people joined video calls right from the comfort (or discomfort) of their homes.

    Because of COVID-19 there has been a huge increase in desktop video, remote learning and telehealth.

    • Plantronics Calisto 7200
    • poly-studio-healthcare telehealth

    So what happens to all those huddle rooms? I don’t believe huddle spaces are going the way of the dodo bird however, their design and use may be different. Many organizations are retrofitting and redesigning their meeting spaces to support the new normal where health and safety are of utmost concern. They are reducing the number of people by 50% or more depending on size of room to maintain social distancing guidelines.

    Some companies are in the process of implementing or are developing hybrid strategies that encompass a mix of in-office and remote work schedules. Some are considering making them private workspaces or a room where an individual can conduct training to the masses via video. And some businesses, haven’t done anything at all. The spaces are just sitting there as their teams continue to work from home.

    • Remember Huddle Rooms
    • Microsoft Teams Devices banner 2
    • Remember Huddle Rooms

    Regardless, video conferencing and collaboration is here to stay. Brands like Logitech, Konftel, Yealink, Jabra and Poly have developed a broad range of video solutions to support any size room across the multiple video platforms like Zoom and Microsoft Teams.

    We’re interested in hearing what your business is doing with huddle rooms. Drop us a comment. If you would like to learn more about video conferencing solutions for your meeting spaces, contact us!

    L

    Lessons Learned in 2020 from WFH and Zooming

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    When we were all first sent to work from home, it was going to be a temporary thing. Many went home with minimal tools with the understanding they would be back in the office in a couple weeks. Weeks turned into months. Almost a year later and I am still working from home for the foreseeable future. Some organizations have elected to make remote work a permanent thing, so what lessons were learned in 2020 WFH and Zooming?

    So what did I learn?

    The ability to communicate and collaborate effectively is paramount. 2020 is the year when Zoom became a verb. Everyone was “Zooming”. (Even though other video platforms were also being used.) From company and team meetings, to virtual game nights, happy hours, and holiday celebrations, you Zoomed them. Regardless of video platform, these two things became very important:

    • Audio and Video Quality

    Although video is extremely important, I am going to give audio quality a higher level of importance. How many video meetings did you attend where this happened?

    • “We can see you but can’t hear you”
    • “Are you muted?”
    • “Can you hear us?”
    • “Whoever is making that noise, can you please mute?”

    Learning how to select the appropriate audio device via the various platforms is a first step. Knowing how to turn your video on and off is also key. And please learn how to mute and unmute. We all had moments where we saw and/or heard more than we should.

    If you are like me, you utilized multiple video meeting platforms beyond Zoom to include Microsoft Teams, Cisco Webex, Google Meet, and more.

    I am very fortunate that my role requires me to test multiple audio and video devices from leading brands like Jabra, Logitech, Poly, Cisco and EPOS, along with lesser-known brands like Konftel, JPL, Yealink and VDO360.

    While open offices can be noisy environments, working from home present different sources of noise like other adults, children, pets, televisions, doorbells, lawn mowers, and other domestic noise! Some folks also deal with other sources of noise like trains, planes, traffic, construction and more!

    Fortunately, there is no shortage of options when it comes to audio and video devices for WFH.

    Audio Solutions for WFH

    The audio quality from the built-in speakers and mics in a laptop are typically subpar. A professional grade corded USB headset will provide a much better audio experience for you and your audience. Additionally, many headsets offer the ability to answer and end calls, adjust volume up or down, and to enable the all-important mute function via an inline control or through the headset itself. Some headsets even offer a cool feature that places you on mute by simply flipping the boom arm up. If you need the flexibility to roam around your home office, it is best to get a Bluetooth or DECT wireless headset. Imagine having the ability to remain in a call while helping your kids start their online school, going to the kitchen for more coffee, or to go get your food delivery from the front door? Wireless headsets allow you to do this.

    Another great feature that some headsets offer is Active Noise Canceling (ANC) speakers that help block out distracting noise and allow you to focus on your call or work.

    Personally, I use a USB speakerphone. Speakerphones are a great option especially if you are in a “listen-only” webinar or conference call. Some offer full-duplex audio which allows for multiple users to communicate simultaneously.  Bluetooth and NFC are available in some speakerphone models to support pairing to your mobile device. Personally, I use two speakerphones. I use one connected to my PC for voice and video calls. The other is paired to my mobile device for streaming music.

    Have a hard time deciding? Look at these videos!

    Headset, Webcam, and Speakerphone Comparison Videos

    Headset Mic Test Videos

    Speakerphone Review and Audio Quality Test Videos

    Video Solutions for WFH

    The built-in camera in your laptop typically provides horrible video quality. During 2020 I had the privilege of testing several webcams and cameras. I learned that 1080p means something different to the various manufacturers. Many claimed 1080p but the video quality I experienced was not quite what I expected. I guess Logitech spoiled me and the rest of us. In my opinion, they continue to be the standard when it comes to video quality. That’s not to say other brands didn’t hold their own. In addition to video resolution quality, other factors to consider when selecting a webcam are:

    Field of View (FOV)

    Today webcams and cameras offer a FOV of 54 to 360 degrees! Essentially the lower the degrees, the less you see, and the higher, the more you see. Some folks prefer not to expose too much of their environment and surroundings to the outside world. While some would like as much of the room or space in view. Your individual use case will always determine what is best for you. Some cameras have software available that allows you to adjust FOV and other settings to improve overall video quality and experience.

    Webcam System Requirements

    Not every webcam works with every computer or operating system. Make a note of your computer and operating system, then check the requirements for the webcam. ​

    Compatible and Certified

    Beyond system and operating system requirements select webcams are compatible or certified for major platforms like Microsoft Teams, Cisco® Jabber®, Spark™, WebEx®, Zoom, Google Meet, Bluejeans, and more! ​

    • Lessons Learned WFH and Zooming

    Built-in Microphone

    Some webcams provide built-in microphones that are pretty good and some that are not. Check out these webcam videos that include mic tests! However, having a built-in microphone is beneficial in some use cases especially those with limited USB ports. A USB Headset or Speakerphone typically provide improved audio quality.

    Privacy Shutter

    Webcam privacy shutters/cover webcam lens to prevent others from “seeing” what the camera sees. ​ Some webcams have built-in shutters. ​ Some webcams provide lens cover you can affix to webcam. ​ Some webcams do not provide privacy shutter or cover. If privacy is important, please check to see if the webcam of interest includes a cover or not.

    • Lessons Learned WFH and Zooming Poly Eagle Eye shutter
    • Lessons Learned WFH and Zooming
    • Lessons Learned WFH and Zooming

    Cable Length

    It is critical that you understand where end-user wishes to mount camera vs where camera will be connected. ​Cable lengths vary from webcam to webcam. 3ft – 6ft appear to be average cable lengths however some have shorter cables​.

    While you can use a USB extension cable do not assume it will work. In order to maintain support for USB 2.0 or 3.0 requirements, there may be cable length restrictions, or you may need special powered USB cable (and even this may not work).

    Other features:

    • Pan, Tilt, Zoom (PTZ) – Manual, Digital, Software based
    • Device Management Software
    • Windows Hello support
    • Built-in AI
    • Auto-framing, Intelligent Zoom
    • Tripod-ready and other mounting options
    • Rightlight2 Technology for clarity in various lighting environments
    • Autofocus

    The point is, while a low-cost headset or webcam may sound appealing, it may not be the best solution for your use case today and in the future? Reminder, what started out as a short-term scenario has become long-term and permanent for many. Do you have the best tools to be as productive as possible while Zooming? To learn more about these solutions, contact us M-F, 8am-5pm ET! 📞 1-800-749-3160 or 📨 sales@calloneonline.com

    VDO 360 SEEME

    12 Days of Call One | Day Three VDO 360 SEEME – $50 Webcam

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    VDO360 presents an Enterprise-grade personal webcam. Optimized for laptop use, the VDO 360 SEEME connects via USB2.0 with no drivers needed- Easy to use, simply plug it in for a full 1080p webcam with the great audio you have come to expect from VDO360.

    Deep Dive

    • 2 million pixels
    • Mic Distance: 40mm
    • Image area: 5.85mm × 3.27mm
    • OS Support: WinXP/Vista/Win7/Win8/Win10 / Linux with UVC（above linux-2.6.26)
    • MAC-OS X 10.4.8 or later / WinCE with UVC / Android 4.0 or above with UVC
    • Field of view: 75°(W)
    • Power: USB 5V

    Performance

    We have covered a few VDO products in the past, but nothing quite as interesting as this one. The VDO 360 SEEME puts out a surprisingly good 1080p picture, and a strong microphone pickup. With  a sampling rate of 16KHz/48KHz and a Resolution: 1920*1080@30fps / 1280*720@30fps / 640*480*30fps, the $50 price tag is well worth it. Compared to webcams in the same price range, the blows all competition out of the water. Take a look at this graph (Comparing other VDO360 products)

    SEEME1SEE2SEE
    IMAGEVDO 360 SEEMEVDO360 VDOS4M 2SEE
    SKUVDOCMEVDO1CVDOS4M
    MSRP$50$75$139
    Mics2No4
    SpeakerNoNoNo
    MagnificationFixedFixedFixed
    Special featureBudget minded, great video and audioPassthrough USB port on rear of camera for data. Use headsets, USB thumb drives, wireless mouse dongles, even when the camera is off. Solid billet aluminum construction.Great video with a far-field mic array that picks up your voice from up to eight meters away.
    Great forWFH, Distance Education, Students, general useWFH, Distance Education, Call CentersWFH, Distance Education, Teachers
    BUY NOWBUY NOWBUY NOW

    Compared to the 2See, the only thing you get is two extra microphones and an $89 price difference. You can almost get two VDO 360 SEEME webcams at that price! On the other hand, the 2see is used for much different use cases, therefore quality, FOV, and range will be a little bit better. However, for the average WFH employee, distance education student, and other general users, this is the webcam to go with.

    Overall, we were blown away with the VDO 360 SEEME. Checkout the video below and see for yourself. If you like the video, don’t forget to give it a thumbs up, share, and subscribe! Feel free to leave a comment or suggest a new products for us to cover.

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