Teleconferencing via Skype - Resource Sharing Made Easy

[Travis Hoffman]

Earlier today, Teams 48 and 379 did something for the first time that had us asking why we had never done it before. We used two free software programs to connect remotely and demonstrate gripper prototypes and Inventor models to our respective design rooms via videoconference. Many similar programs exist, but we used Skype for voice and video teleconferencing (free for computer to computer calls) and TeamViewer (www.teamviewer.com - free and fully functional for non-commercial use) as a remote desktop/file transfer client. Both have proven very easy to set up and use. Anyone with a computer, mic, webcam, and decent internet connection can readily set up a link. Skype supports multiple simultaneous connections, so those who aren't at the school can connect and participate in the discussion. TeamViewer permits a group in one location to view and control the desktop of another, as well as easily transfer files between one computer and another. This is great when one team wishes to view and manipulate the Inventor models of another, or when a veteran team wishes to assist a rookie team with their programming.

It occurs to me that software tools such as these could be used to more easily link rookies and other inexperienced teams together with veterans so they can share information and resources. I think this would also make it much easier to link all teams together within a specific region - teams whose members might otherwise not be able to schedule frequent meetings with each other in person. In fact, I plan to use these programs to supplement future NEOFRA (Northeast Ohio FIRST Robotics Alliance) meetings.

I was curious which other teams/groups have used such collaborative software and would like to hear their opinions on the overall experience. Everyone who witnessed today's videoconference found it to be very "cool" and very beneficial. I can't wait to put these programs to further use.