EuroPython 2020 / Web Conferencing

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Here are some of the findings in the webconferencing openspace session and #av-clubroom discord discussion at EuroPython 2020.

Hardware

Webcams

Aukey PC-LM1E Webcam SKU ITAN1014662

Function:

  • standard webcam for PC

Pros:

  • just works with linux, e.g. with guvcview on ubuntu 20.04

  • available, ca. 49 EUR

Cons:

  • 65 degress wide angle (so little of “you” in lots of “room around you”)

  • default settings seem to be too white, can be adjusted via sw

Logitech Brio

Pros:

  • camera and microphone are really nice

  • plug and play, works on Linux (Ubuntu 20.04)

Headsets (Headphones with Microphone)

MPOW HC5 Bluetooth Headset X0016X73LR

Function:

  • over-the-ears BT5 headphones

  • Microphone

Pros:

  • works as headset with Android phone (speakers+mic)

  • works as headphones with PC (speakers only)

Cons:

  • does not work as headset (speakers+mic) with BT4 USB adapter at computer

  • does not work as headset (speakers+mic) via 1Mii B10 at computer (not able to switch to “call” mode)

Microphones

Blue Yeti Mic

works very well, but no built in noise cancellation so it picks up everything unless you use it in Cardiod mode with the gain all the way down.

Bluetooth Adapters

1Mii USB Bluetooth Audio Transmitter B10 EAN X0014UJEH3

Function:

  • for computer it is just a USB “sound card”

  • internally, it transmits sound output via BT5 to headphones speakers

  • internally, it receives sound input via BT5 from headset microphone

  • 2 modes, switch by hw button:

    • music - high quality (aptX) - output only

    • call - lower quality - input/output

Pros:

  • just a soundcard, keeps all the BT stuff away from computer

  • nice for Qubes OS (just forward USB device to VM with teleconf sw)

  • nice for Linux and BT5 (not [m]any working BT5 adapters yet)

  • some stuff “just works”

Cons:

  • lots of states signalled via single multicolor LED

  • misc. state changing inputs via a single hw button