Solutions

Caméléon Telepresence™ FAQs

Video communications that adapt to your organization

AVI-SPL designed the Caméléon Telepresence™ suite to meet the needs of any typical meeting space - from lifelike, face-to-face Telepresence, to high-definition video conferencing, audio conferencing, and presentation display -all at the touch of a button.

To learn more about how we do it and how Caméléon will adapt to your meeting space, see these Frequently Asked Questions.

 

What makes Caméléon different than other Telepresence systems? How does Caméléon benefit my business?

Answer: Caméléon is a first-of-its-kind model that transcends the standard, single-functionality Telepresence room. Unlike other Telepresence solutions, it features a multi-purpose platform and easily adapts to your existing facilities. With the customizable options provided by the Caméléon solution, you can fulfill all of your multimedia conferencing and presentation requirements without sacrificing quality or your budget.

Why is Caméléon less expensive than other Telepresence systems?

Answer: Caméléon is designed to be a "zero construction" implementation. The investment in the system, the elimination of expensive room remediation requirements, and cost-effective support programs add up to a quicker return-on-investment and reduced total cost of ownership. These are highly critical factors when deciding on a solution and evaluating actual costs during the life of the technology.

Does Caméléon offer a high-definition (HD) conferencing experience?

Answer: Yes. Caméléon incorporates your preferred HD codec technology, along with commercial-grade displays and other components. With Caméléon, you'll receive the maximum experience expected from a Telepresence and HD video conferencing solution.

What options are available with Caméléon?

Answer: Caméléon offers a variety of options to expand the room capacity and functionality of the system. This gives you the flexibility to implement all the features and functions your organization needs. Options include:

• Second row seating configuration, adding an additional 7 seats
• A 6-conference chair package
• Individual chairs
• Room/environment controls
• Tabletop color options
• Additional source inputs: DVD, document camera, DVR, etc.

How quickly can Caméléon be deployed and installed into my facility?

Answer: Estimated time after receipt of order is 4 weeks. Special order items or custom options may add additional time to the completion of your Caméléon.

Does Caméléon interoperate with other video conferencing systems?

Answer: In Video conferencing Mode, Caméléon does provide full interoperability with other video conferencing systems.

In Telepresence Mode, there is no standard in place in the industry to support vendor-to-vendor Telepresence calls. A Caméléon system based on Polycom technology can call a Polycom TP room. However, without the use of some infrastructure components or a Managed Service Provider coordinating the call, a Polycom-based Caméléon system can't call another manufacturer's Telepresence room.

What service options are available for Caméléon?

Answer: The AVI-SPL Customer Care Plus+ program has comprehensive support services available for Caméléon. The level of support would be determined by your specific needs. Please speak to your AVI-SPL representative for more details on our Customer Care Plus+ services.

Are product demonstrations available?

Answer: The Caméléon is readily available for viewing at AVI-SPL's Video Briefing Center, located in our Chicago office. Additional locations are planned throughout the U.S. in the very near future.

What are the technical/physical requirements for Caméléon?

Answer: This unique design is a free-standing solution with independent video cabinetry and a conference table. Aside from fundamental requirements, such as minimum room size, power and network connectivity, the Caméléon is made to adapt into your existing environment. A Caméléon Implementation Guide is available for you to review the specifications. Please contact your AVI-SPL representative for assistance.

How much training is required to use the system? Does AVI-SPL provide the training?

Answer: Equipped with a 12" touch panel featuring an intuitive user interface as the control system, even a first-time user can walk in the room and use any of the system's features. At the time of implementation, a representative from your company will be provided a brief overview on system operations. If additional training is required, AVI-SPL can work with you to design a special training program to meet your needs. However, the design of Caméléon is intuitive for the sole purpose of minimizing the need to train every user.

How many people can be in a meeting at the same time with Caméléon?

Answer: In a standard Caméléon configuration, a total of 6 people can participate in a Telepresence or video call. Up to 10 people can be utilized during an audio conference or local presentation. If the second row option is purchased, an additional 7 participants can participate.

If I have existing equipment, can it be used in Caméléon and save me money?

Answer: It depends on the equipment. If you own some peripherals such as document cameras, DVD players, electronic whiteboards, etc., we can most likely incorporate the use of those devices with Caméléon's peripherals option. We do not offer the ability to provide your own existing video codecs with Caméléon.

What about MCUs, Gatekeepers and other network devices needed to build my corporate video network?

Answer: Caméléon does not alleviate the need for these components -- it only provides the room solution. AVI-SPL can assist you in designing and implementing a total room AND infrastructure solution.

You're now offering a Polycom and LifeSize version of Caméléon. How does this affect my options?

Answer: Many customers today have standardized with a particular manufacturer for their video conferencing needs. Caméléon is available with different manufacturer's video codecs to help meet those standards and easily integrate into their existing environment.

Will other manufacturer codecs be available to use with Caméléon ?

Answer: At initial release, Polycom and LifeSize versions are available for shipment. We do plan to offer other manufacturer versions as soon as possible.

My office is planning to move in the next year. Can I move a Caméléon once it's installed?

Answer: Yes. Caméléon can be disassembled and re-installed in a different location by AVI-SPL-trained technicians. If you chose to do any special lighting or room elements in addition to the Caméléon system, those items may not be able to be moved. Speak to your AVI-SPL representative about your options.

Why not just build a custom room to my specifications?

Answer: Many times, that is the best approach if your requirements are not satisfied by what is offered in the market. However, custom room solutions are complicated projects. In comparison to a manufacturer solution with no options for customization, Caméléon was designed to provide a limited level of customization, without the need to enter into a full-scale tailored installation.

Based on your organization's unique needs, AVI-SPL can help you determine which path is best for your company. Contact your AVI-SPL representative to discuss your options.