How do conference calls work

how does teleconferencing work?

In this article I’m going to try to answer that question — admittedly from a non-technical background.

From a technical point of view a teleconference is a cross linked call. Multiple incoming lines are hooked up through one telephone number to a PBX or to use the long form a private branch exchange switch. A PBX is used to connect incoming telephone lines and handsets or two or more internal handsets. Basically they are a computerized version of the old operator and her switchboard.

This PBX can be physical or software based. In today’s world, teleconferencing services use software based PBXs for a number of reasons.

Normally a PBX connects one incoming line with one handset or two internal handsets. But it doesn’t have to limit itself that way. A teleconference or conference call uses a PBX to connect multiple incoming lines (usually using the same telephone number and extension) together.

So what is a teleconference from a non-technical point of view? It’s a way to connect a number of people on a telephone so they can all talk together. That’s the simple answer.

Now how does it work?

It begins by making arrangements with a teleconferencing service. These providers — including virtually all telephone companies — make a PBX available for teleconferences. You register with the service and they email you back with a telephone number and a password or conference id. In fact, they typically send you two conference ids… one for your use as host and one for your guests. Effectively this conference id is the equivalent of a meeting room or exchange.

You then schedule the meeting and inform the participants of the phone number and conference id. Typically this is done with an email.

When the time comes, you call in using the host conference id. This gives you a number of capabilities that the regular participant doesn’t have. At the same time the other participants call in using their conference id.

That’s it. All you need to do from there is to start talking. When you’re finished talking hang up.

When it comes to paying for your conference call service, some people do not. There are all sorts of free packages available for people to place calls anytime they want. Very often, as soon as your number is set up, you can begin having such calls. However, because the services you are being provided are free, there is a good chance that the costs are being offset by being advertisement supported.

What this means is that you and other attendees will periodically hear various advertisements being played during the conference. For people who know how free services work, this option works out fairly well. However, when a person does not understand the concept behind being advertisement supported, they can become confused. In some cases people may think you are directing advertisements at them personally.