Collaborative Tools & Equipment
The Technology Governance Committee has compiled a suggested list of Collaborative Tools and Equipment* to optimize the best synchronous experience. Listed items are compatible with WebEx and Blackboard Collaborate Ultra.
| Webcams | Microphones/Headsets | Lighting |
| Document Cameras | Backdrops | Whiteboard/Digitizing Tablets |
| Podcast Kits |
Webcams
720p or better. Cameras built in to most newer laptop computers will work well. There are lots of choices and the cost ranges widely. Webcams are harder to obtain at this time because of the very high demand.
| MODEL | AVAILABILITY | PRICE | WHY WE RECOMMEND IT | VIDEOS AND OTHER NOTES |
| Logitech 920e | Rare | $100-$150 | Logitech is a quality brand. This is a model that we know works well. | |
| AVerMedia CAM 313 | Common | $70-$100 | Generally available and high quality for the price. | |
| Adesso Cybertrack H5 | Common | $60-$80 | Generally available and a good value. | YouTube Review Video |
Microphones/Headsets
Use of an external microphone/headset will provide better sound quality and reduce feedback and echo.
| MODEL | AVAILABILITY | PRICE | WHY WE RECOMMEND IT | VIDEOS AND OTHER NOTES |
| Logitech USB H390 | Rare | $20-$50 | Logitech makes very good products at a reasonable price. This headset has a noise canceling microphone which may help reduce spikes in sound. It will not, however, eliminate all background noise. | YouTube Review Video |
| Logitech H570e | Common | $60-$80 | Higher availability, high quality. | YouTube Review Video |
| Poly Blackwire C3220 | Common | $50-$80 | Higher availability, high quality. | |
| Blue Yeti Nano USB | Common | $129 | This bundle comes with Studio Headphones and Knox Gear Pop Filter | YouTube Review Video |
| Rode NT-USB MINI | Common | $99 | USB plug and play microphone; use on any platform with any major recording software. Onboard D/A conversion rate of 24-bit/48kHz ensures audio remains clean and clear at all times. | YouTube Review Video |
Lighting
Lighting is always a challenge in videos and online meetings. A simple light in front of the speaker is much better than no light. There are two main types of lights to consider:
Ring Lights: Google LED Ring Light and you will get a lot of recommendations. You don't need to spend a lot of money on these to enhance your video tremendously. Pick a light that has USB charging or power. Be sure to get either a tripod or some mechanism to attache the light to your laptop or camera.
Desktop Lights: Offer flexibility in size, shape, and placement and can be found at just about any store or website.
| MODEL | AVAILABILITY | PRICE | WHY WE RECOMMEND IT | VIDEOS AND OTHER NOTES |
| Eyocean LED Ring Light | Common | $20 | ||
| AiXPI LED Ring Light 10 | Common | $22 | Tripod stand & phone holder, dimmable, 3 light modes, 10 brightness levels. This ring light includes 120 bulbs | |
| Eyocean Desk Lamp | Common | $19.95 | Strong clamp, flexible neck, 3 modes, 9 dimming levels. Includes AC Adapter. | YouTube Unboxing Video |
Backdrops
Backdrops are a good way to eliminate possible distractions in your background. You can use a solid color backdrop or, if you want to add a custom screen, Green/Blue Screen backdrops. Keep in mind if you use Green or Blue Screens you may need additional lighting for the best results.
| MODEL | AVAILABILITY | PRICE | WHY WE RECOMMEND IT | VIDEOS AND OTHER NOTES |
| Emart Green Screen Kit | $99 | Kit includes 400W Studio Lighting Kit, 5ft X 6.5ft Portable Green Screen |
Document Camera
| MODEL | AVAILABILITY | PRICE | WHY WE RECOMMEND IT | VIDEOS AND OTHER NOTES |
| JOYUSING V500S | $138 | 1/4" CMOS Sensor, 8.0 Megapixel Camera, 100x Digital Zoom Function, Built-in Microphone, Autofocus Lens, Flexible Arms, Max Shooting Area 16.53"x11.69" |
Whiteboard / Digitizing Tablet
| MODEL | AVAILABILITY | PRICE | WHY WE RECOMMEND IT | VIDEOS AND OTHER NOTES |
| Wacom CTL4100WLK0 | Common | $99 | 7.9" X 6.3" - Software Included |
Podcasting Kit
| MODEL | AVAILABILITY | PRICE | WHY WE RECOMMEND IT | VIDEOS AND OTHER NOTES |
| Common | $129 | All-in-one USB podcasting package; No audio interface required; includes AT2005USB microphone, TH-M20x headphones, studio boom arm, mic clip, Euro-thread adapter, and protective carrying pouch. Mac/PC compatible; USB bus powered | YouTube Unboxing Video |
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