Konftel, the Sweden-based collaboration end-point solutions provider had added a new lecture mode wireless headset feature to its Konftel 800, flagship conferencing speakerphone.
According to Konftel, the new lecture mode feature was designed to allow end users the ability to move more freely within rooms for teaching and training. “Wherever they are located, perhaps facing a whiteboard, they can still have perfect microphone pick-up and be heard clearly by all remote participants,” says Konftel product manager, Torbjörn Karlsson.
Freedom for Teaching & Training
The new feature is available via a free software upgrade. To take advantage of the new function, an approved wireless headset needs to be connected to the speakerphone. The first release only supports the Jabra Engage 65. Support for other headsets will come with future firmware releases.
While the presenter is speaking, the Konftel 800 will automatically mute all its microphones and only keep the headset microphone open. Karlsson explains that when the person stops talking, the speakerphone microphones are unmuted and all participants in the room can be heard. But through the headset, the remote participants can always be heard.
He adds, “Lecture mode gives the presenter complete freedom to roam around a room and break free from any traditional communication barriers. Wherever they are located, even with their back to the room, they can still be heard clearly.”
The Konftel 800 forms the audio centerpiece of several Konftel video kits. It boasts multi-connectivity, beamforming microphones and daisy-chain connection for audio expansion. It is linked to a wireless headset via a DECT base station, with lecture mode operating via all IP, USB or Bluetooth call connections.
Ceiling Mount Kit for Konftel 800
Konftel has developed a special ceiling mount kit for the Konftel 800, providing an appealing alternative to traditional desktop placement. According to the company, the ceiling mount kit addresses the growing demand for smarter and more flexible room configurations, where up to three devices can be connected from above.
Karlsson adds, “You can move furniture and rearrange the room every day without any technology hassle. It’s perfect for larger spaces and multipurpose rooms, where daisy-chain capabilities make sure every inch of the room is covered by audio.”
He continues, “With the speakerphones mounted to the ceiling you’re clearing the table from devices and cables, for a neat and tidy room appearance. It also elevates the video meeting experience. The user can forget about where the microphone is placed and focus on the interaction with remote participants on the screen. The audio pick-up and distribution work its magic without anyone noticing. It all comes naturally.”