AccessGrid

An Access Grid (AG) node is defined as a specific ensemble of hardware and software like a videoconference system, but with more features and better quality of video and audio. It merges multicast, multiple displays, distributed presentation capabilities and interactive environments.

The hardware components of an AG node have three categories. Computing equipment includes the computers that drive the node and the associated adapter cards, network hardware, monitors, keyboards, and so on. Media equipment includes the audio processing hardware, microphones, speakers, video cameras, etc. Projection equipment includes the projectors for the display, mounting hardware, and screen materials.

CIAR had its first AG session on March 30, 2005. This was a three-way activity between Lawrence Berkley National Laboratory, Jackson State University and CIAR facilities at the University of Puerto Rico Medical Sciences Campus. CIAR has a dedicated videoconference room to deploy AccessGrid, H.323 and other group-to-group collaborative technologies.

You can access the Access Grid web site for additional information.