What does MCI have to do with sharks?
Through advanced telecommunications technology, MCI
can take you to far away places without ever leaving the
classroom. MCI can use a technology called "Integrated Services Digital
Networks" or ISDN (link to New Educational Technology...) to bring you for
a
virtual walk through the rain forest, a visit to a museum or even for
realistic
adventure in a shark tank. At this site you can learn about how MCI teamed
up
with Sun Microsystems, Mote Marine Laboratory and Aquarium and The Ocean
of
Know, to bring you on a virtual journey into a shark tank. There you will
experience the depths through a sharks-eye view.
How did they do that? You can enter the shark tank through an ISDN-based video conference. Videoconferencing refers to simultaneous interactive image and voice communication between individuals at two or more locations. Operating at a transfer rate of up to 384 kilobytes per second, this turbo speed transmission provides a clear, smooth, two-way interaction in real time. Cameras mounted on a state-of-the-art robotic arm follow the sharks movements, so you can see the same view that the shark is experiencing.
At this site you can learn a lot of interesting facts about sharks. You can also get more in-depth technical information about ISDN. Browse the site to learn more about how you can participate. (add photo of robotic arm and camera) Put my classroom in the tank!
If you are interested in setting up a video conferencing capability in your classroom, you will want to read the requirements and specifications located at this site under, Build Your Own Interactive Classroom.
The Quick Overview Videoconferencing is one use of ISDN. There are two types of MCI Global ISDN service. Basic Rate (BRI) uses the existing phone line, whereas Prime Rate (PRI) requires an additional line to be installed. No special wiring is required for ISDN service. MCI works with several communications equipment vendors to offer MCI Global ISDN customers end-to-end hardware and service solutions. Customers can order a complete communications package from MCI, including all necessary equipment. The result is a global network solution which streamlines installation intervals and eliminates many of the headaches of equipment provisioning. Part of the requirements in determining the hardware and software you need for ISDN connectivity is based upon your intended use for ISDN and whether you are part of a network (LAN or WAN) or not. In basic terms, to connect a computer to ISDN service requires the following hardware:
1. A 486 or higher PC clone or Mac equivalent 2. An ISDN Terminal Adapter (TA) 3. A large screen 4. A camera
The terminal adapter interfaces between the computer and the ISDN line to allow the digital connection to take place. The type of terminal adapter you need is determined by your hardware and the software used by your Internet Provider (IP). The terminal adapter may need to be connected by serial cable to your computer or it may be part of a specific ISDN card residing inside the computer. Again, the type of adapter depends on many factors including the type of system connected to ISDN. Even an ISDN-ready service provider may be limited by the software they use.
If you have further questions about ISDN you
can contact
Susan Sirmai MCI Telecommunications
1650 Tysons Blvd. McLean, Virginia 22102
Phone: 1-703-903-1033
Fax: 1-703-506-6626
Internet: ssirmai@mcimail.com
To subscribe to MCI ISDN service, please fill out the form below and MCI will contact you to talk about your requirements.