Access Grid is a global collaboration application that enables remote audio, video and data communication over the internet. An advanced form of videoconferencing technology, it supports real time interaction between people located anywhere in the world.

Using Access Grid, people come together in 'virtual meeting rooms' where they can see each other, hear each other, and participate in shared work. Depending on the capabilities supported at the Access Grid node (a physical location at which Access Grid is used), users may have access to large format multimedia displays, simultaneous camera feeds or shared applications.

Access Grid is easily scalable, so nodes range from a single desktop or laptop computer with a microphone and web camera attached, to high performance room-based nodes, equipped with multiple projectors, large-scale displays, multiple cameras, and sound systems for unobtrusive audio pick-up and reproduction.

There is no theoretical limit to how many nodes can be linked, and the number of people present at each site is limited only by room size and the hardware present.

Access Grid is extremely versatile and offers several advantages over 'traditional' videoconferencing, including the ability to:

• interact with unlimited sites
• use multiple cameras to show different views simultaneously (eg of the presenter, their slides, and their audience)
• access improved quality audio and video (and control settings individually for each feed)
• share control of applications such as presentation software and web browsers
• integrate other devices such as electronic whiteboards, pen trackers, 3D visualisation environments and robotic devices.

Use Access Grid

eResearch SA has a fully-equipped Meeting Room that can be reserved using the videoconference booking form. This is a good solution for groups of up to 10 people or if you require advanced features such as multiple cameras angles or operator assistance. The South Australian Virtual Reality Centre (SAVRC) is a good option for presentations with larger audiences.

Individuals who want to use Access Grid can talk to eResearch SA about getting the software set-up on their local machines. It's free and can be run on most desktop or laptop computers.

Access Grid is a video conferencing tool that is highly versatile in terms of set-up and the functions it supports. Settings for individual audio and video feeds can be adjusted separately and there are a range of applications available for collaborative work. Depending on your video conferencing requirements, you might also like to consider using EVO, which is quicker and easier to set up and use on the desktop.

Talk to the eResearch SA Service Desk about which application is best suited to your needs.