Video Conferencing 

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Service Description

Category: Network Services 

The Illinois Videoconferencing Network was built in 1991 to provide videoconferencing services to governmental agencies throughout the State. The network originally consisted of two CMS sites, one each in Springfield and Chicago. Today the IVN is conveniently available at 180 state agencies and approximately 100 educational locations. IVN Directory Lookup.

Videoconferencing is an effective way to hold meetings and share information and ideas to reduce traveling costs. Videoconferencing is two-way interaction between two or more sites located in distant locations. Through the use of this technology, remote sites can see, hear, and interact in meetings and training sessions without the inconveniences associated with travel. In a videoconference meeting, you can also show and see documents, drawings, slides, transparencies, computer images and more, all in real time. The CMS videoconferencing facilities in Springfield and Chicago provide you the opportunity to videoconference with rooms full of people, each in different locations or with individuals from their own desktop systems. You can videoconference with sites across the city, across the state, across the country or around the world.


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What is Included?

Basic Polycom System

  • Standardized Polycom Videoconferencing Hardware
    • Video Codec
    • Camera
    • Speakers and Microphone
  • Computer Input
  • Installation
  • Next day parts/labor
  • Custom installations available upon request
  • IP Based Network

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What Should You Expect?

  • IVN Specifications: The IVN network architecture utilizes the State of Illinois IP network.
  • Call specifications on the IVN: The IVN is capable of higher speeds, the standard speed is 384 KBPS, utilizing ITU H.323 standards. Off-net sites wishing to make a test call with an IVN user should attempt to make calls conforming to these specifications.
  • Making test Calls to the IVN: Please schedule a test with the Video Scheduling group by calling 800-366-8768. Please inform the attendant you are scheduling a test call.
  • A new video system installation can take up to 6-8 weeks or more, depending on equipment availability and receipt. Once the equipment is received, it will be assigned an inventory control number and installed.
  • Similarly a change to an existing system can also take up to 6-8 weeks or more depending on equipment and software receipt.
  • A system disconnect traditionally occurs within 1-2 weeks of request.
  • Expect above average system availability, with outages of less than one hour per year.
  • A new International Telecommunications Union (ITU) H.264 video algorithm that has resulted in much better video quality and smoother motion on screen.

Illinois Video Network Specifications
The IVN network architecture utilizes the State of Illinois IP network.  


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How Can You Help?

  • Keep the Polycom system powered on (for remote monitoring.)
  • Schedule multi-point conferences with at least a 15 minute setup time.
  • Make sure the presenter(s) engage the remote video location(s).
  • Turn off monitors at the end of the day (lengthen lifespan of monitor.)
  • Troubleshooting

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Rates

Video Conferencing Rates [PDF, 56KB]

 FY2013 SSRF Rate Structure (PDF, 15KB)



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Service Order Information

To add a new video system, change an existing system, or disconnect service,
please contact Lyn Stoutamyer at:
Phone: 217-524-0100
Lyn.Stoutamyer@illinois.gov

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Need More Information?


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