Abstract: A method of determining a spatial coding mode for audio data sent by a sender entity (20) to a receiver terminal (10) adapted to receive said audio data in one or more sound reproduction formats. The method comprises the steps of the receiver terminal (10) indicating (1) to the sender entity (20) said reproduction format(s) in a given order of preference and the sender entity (20) determining a mode of spatial coding of the audio data compatible with a reproduction format taken in the order of preference and indicating (2) said reproduction format to the receiver terminal (10). Application to Voice over IP services.

Abstract: A method of setting up a communication between a plurality of terminals (T1, . . . , Tn) in a network comprises the activation of at least one chosen node (N1, . . . , Nm) of the network. A node is selected beforehand as a function of predetermined criteria, then the presence of possible means of management of communication on this node (N1, . . . , Nm) is thereafter detected. In case of absence of the means of management on the node, means of management of communication are dispatched to the node. This method applies in particular to computer networks that can support teleconferences.

Abstract: This invention concerns a conference system of the type that comprises a bridge (10) to which a plurality of terminals (1 to 4) can be connected to participate in a conference, said bridge (10) being equipped to receive the audio and/or video and/or data flows of each terminal (1 to 4) and to retransmit them to the other terminals, wherein the flows transmitted by said terminals (1 to 4) are coded by means of hierarchical coders and wherein said bridge (10) is equipped with means (21 to 24, 210 to 243) for processing the audio/video/data flows coming from the terminals (j) so that they have a hierarchical level (q) in the flow intended for the terminal (i) and means (20) for determining said hierarchical level (q) based on decision-making criteria relating to the status of said conference system.