When planning a teleconference, it's not enough to have your priorities in order and an agenda in place regarding the topics you want to cover. You also need reliable teleconference equipment that won't lead to any disconnection or other potential issues. Otherwise, your teleconference may be more of a frustrating inconvenience for everyone involved than a success. Read on for the best teleconference equipment for success.
 
Teleconferencing equipment
When getting ready for your next teleconference, you will need to find the best teleconference equipment that can give you the best results. The following are some of the main pieces of equipment you'll need to develop a complete teleconference system.
 
Voice and video systems
The first piece of teleconference equipment you'll need is a reliable microphone, whether it's built into your computers or other devices, or a standalone microphone that enhances audio regardless of your position in the room. If people aren't able to hear you clearly, it can be just as detrimental for your teleconference as a poor internet connection.
 
If your teleconferences use video, you will also need to invest in a good camera, or use a webcam that provides consistent quality. If you opt for a separate camera, make sure it's appropriate for the space in which you intend to use it.
 
High-quality speakers
Another type of audio teleconference equipment you need to consider is a speaker system that enables you to hear others clearly. The audio should be crisp and clear, but make sure the speaker system isn't too large for the space.
 
If you're installing the teleconference system in your workplace, determine if anyone in your staff requires a hearing loop, and ensure that your teleconference equipment is compatible with it. If you can hear colleagues and other participants clearly throughout your teleconferences, you'll further prevent any miscommunication throughout.
 
Screens or TVs
Depending on the type of teleconference, you may also need to purchase dedicated screens or TVs. In some cases, projectors may also be useful if you have an appropriately sized wall or whiteboard. If your teleconferences are purely virtual and conducted with others from remote locations, this won't be of concern. Oftentimes, interactive screens are ideal to use for teleconferences.
 
Again, like with other equipment, make sure the screens or TVs you select for a workplace setting are the right size. If your screens are unnecessarily large or too small, you may either wind up spending too much money on an oversized display or be stuck with an inadequately sized display that others will have a hard time viewing.
 
Teleconference software
In addition to reliable hardware that helps facilitate a successful teleconference, you also need high-quality software that serves as your central platform. You can have all of the best teleconference equipment set up, but if the platform you use to host your conference is inadequate, none of that will matter.
 
There are many types of teleconference software available, but it's important to find the one that's most compatible with your application. Try to locate software that gives you the features you want at a price that falls within your available budget. For instance, you may have a lot of apps that you would like your teleconference software to integrate with, or you may need various features such as webcam connectivity for video, chat capabilities to communicate and share data on the side throughout the teleconference, or the ability to record your meetings for sharing with those who could not attend. You may also want screen sharing capabilities to allow you to share your computer desktop during a teleconference as you demonstrate a certain process.
 
With the right combination of teleconference equipment, including speakers, audio and voice systems, screens, and software, you can host a successful teleconference. When shopping for the ideal teleconference equipment, make sure you only get what you need and ensure the equipment is appropriately sized for your space.