Sony PCS-1 vs Polycom ViewStation FX

[dctturbo]

I am extremely new to Video Conferencing and our organization is looking at implementaing a system very soon and have narrowed it down to the two systems. I could use some help with any information regarding compatibity...concerns with either system...anything that may help with the decision. Thanks in advance.

[George]

Hi dctturbo,

Welcome to the community! Don't worry about your experience level here. If it weren't for new inexperienced people, we'd all have nothing to do but talk nerdy to each other :D

So just tell us what 2 systems you're looking at and we'll definitely try and give you our honest unbiased opinion as it relates to our own experiences.

Enjoy the forums!

[robertk]

George I would guess that he is deciding between Sony PCS-1 or Polycom FX :)

I would go for the Polycom. But that is just because I belive Polycom has a deeper understanding about Videoconferencing then Sony.

//Robert

[Honka]

I would ask who you are going to be connecting to what systems they have. This may help you with your choice.

Personally I would go for Polycom as they tend to have better compatibilty in my experience.

Honka

[dctturbo]

Thanks for the replies! As of right now it looks like we will be using IP mainly between 3 sites one of which is using a Polycom 512 already. (The other two are not video conferencing yet) I've read in another forum that Sony does not play well with others. Any thoughts?

[CallOne]

In my opinion, Sony has a great CODEC. However, they do seem to have a difficult time handshaking with Polycom. If starting from scratch I would recommend Sony, but since you already a Polycom in place, I recommend you stay with the same manufacturer.

[MACC the AVCOtek]

I've never thought that Sony's user interface was all that friendly. From a user's perspective, I believe the Polycom is easier to use.

I'd also recommend the Polycom.


Plus, on a more technical note, Sony's QoS algorithm is kind of lazy...you're liable to experience more packet loss on the Sony than on the Polycom. This may have changed however - I'm sure if I'm wrong someone here will correct me! :D




minor edit for spelling

[dfreeman]

I would recommend Polycom with the caveat of waiting until production issues are addressed. it may also prove that after the new product launches this summer we may see some new (old) players. Keep an eye out for offerings from VCON and Aethra to challenge the Goliath.
There may some price structure realignment as well. Just my tuppence. ;)

[Narayanan]

You also need to consider other things like whether you need multipoint conferencing over IP/ISDN/Mixed network, data collaboration etc. There are quite a few models with various configurations in Polycom that can satisfy your requirements. Yes! Polycom is very user friendly.

Narayanan