Patent ID: 6683858
Filing Date: 2004-01-27
Classification: H04L

Abstract:
A method of providing audio conferencing for a plurality of clients using varying equipment and protocols, comprising the steps of:(1) receiving an audio packet from each of the plurality of clients; (2) determining which of the plurality of clients is an active speaker and forming an active speakers list; (3) determining that a first subset of the plurality of clients has the capability to mix multiple audio streams; (4) determining that a second subset of the plurality of clients does not have the capability to mix multiple audio streams; (5) multiplexing said packets of audio data received from each client on said active speakers list into a multiplexed stream; (6) sending said multiplexed stream to each of said first subset of the plurality of clients; (7) mixing said packets of audio data received from each client on said active speakers list into one combined packet; and (8) sending said combined packet to each of said second subset of the plurality of clients; whereby said plurality of clients can simultaneously participate in a single audio conference application.