Abstract: A multimedia communication arrangement processes and multiplexes different types of data, including data from an adaptive data rate data source and a nonadaptive data rate data source, to substantially increase data throughput over a communication channel. The rate at which data is collected from the adaptive data rate data source varies based on the available channel bandwidth of the modem. The transmission rate is optionally adjusted in response to a detected error rate. Furthermore, the amount of filtering performed by a video camera on an image before the image is encoded by a codec can be adjusted. In addition, a data recovery terminal optionally selectively adjusts intervals at which received audio data is sampled to potentially reduce latency periods.

Abstract: Configuring a communication arrangement that transmits video and other signal types using operational modes includes constructing a hierarchy of nodes representing the operational modes. The hierarchy also includes null nodes and a root node. Scores are collected as the nodes are traversed. The score represents a difference between the operational modes represented by the nodes along the path and desired operational modes received from a data recovery terminal. When the sum of scores collected for a set of nodes exceeds a threshold, the order of traversal is reversed. Reversing the order discards inefficient solutions and avoids dedication of system resources to evaluating such solutions. In addition, decreasing the number of paths evaluated permits more rapid determination of the operational modes best matching the desired operational modes.