An experimental multi-media bridging system

The prototype system, which is described in this paper and called the Multi-Media Bridge, is designed to test service concepts and evolving technologies that make possible the deployment of multi-media group communications in future broadband networks. It incorporates such features as extended quality audio, full-motion video, graphics and data multi-point communications capability. The Bridge could serve as either a separate vendor entity or as an integral part of a network-based complex. The multi-shelf architecture of the experimental system allows a variety of technical problems and issues to be autonomously addressed. The shelves, designated Audio, Video, Graphics, and Data, are functionally integrated by a distributed control capability. A graphics user interface was developed which can be realized on any PC or workstation that supports the MIT X-Windowing system. It provides users with the flexibility to dynamically invoke each medium at any time and control various modes of media integration.