The AGS-12 Net Audio Interface

History:

The AGS Group, represented by DETAC Corporation, has been providing distance education services in Alberta since 1984. The group have been developing and manufacturing distance education technology under the AGS banner for most of this time. These products are:

• the AGS-5 Audio-only teleconference unit circa 1986
• the AGS-7 Audio-graphic teleconference system 1984-1991
• the AGS-5MX Audio-only unit with audio visual control 1992
• the AGS-7MX Audio-graphic teleconference system c/w audio visual interface 1992-present
• the AGS-4 DTH released Jan 1996
• the AGS-12 Net Audio Interface (final beta testing June 1997)

General Description:

The AGS-12 Net Audio Interface (NAI) is a digitally controlled voice conferencing unit, intended for Internet applications where the learner group is small (1-8 people) and where high quality Internet delivered group audio is critical.

The device connects to all popular computer sound cards. Line level audio outputs (1/8" stereo jacks) are also provided on the front of the unit for transmitted audio, received audio, or both, should the user wish to make use of an existing audio amplifier/speaker system.

The AGS-12 NAI can be used with any popular Internet video and or audio conferencing software such as Intel's ProShare, Microsoft's Net Meeting, Enhanced CU-SeeMe or VocalTec's Internet Phone.

Since the unit has a built-in microphone, the learner may speak directly into the air hands-free. They may also use either a push-to-talk table microphone, a set of headphones, the optional headset microphone or an XLR microphone (input at rear of unit).

The unit has been designed specifically for distance education and training situations. All controls are placed on the front of the unit so as to cause the least interruptions during the learning lesson.

Service:

Due to the location of the manufacturing facilities in Edmonton, the group offers on-line support, 24 hour service on site and "local" repair services. Over the past eight years only a dozen repair services have been requested for AGS technology. Currently, most institutions supply their own service unless board level service is required. All AGS products have a one year warranty. Standard upgrades are available periodically to provide better firmware and upgraded system controls.

Innovation:

The AGS-12 NAI is among a new line of innovative distance education products that are designed to provide voice, data, and video service direct-to-home. The AGS-12 NAI will work with all popular internet conferencing software and provides users with consistently high quality group audio.