Abstract: A method of self-discovery and self-calibration is provided for allowing arbitrary placement of audio and video components in a multimedia conferencing system. In particular, one or more markers are provided on the audio components (e.g. microphone arrays, etc.) that are detectable by the video components (e.g. cameras). A unique signature (e.g. flashing sequence, color, etc.) characterizes each marker so that its exact location relative to the camera may be calculated. A self-calibration operation is then performed to relate, regulate and standardize dimensions and locations in the conferencing environment to the video system.

Abstract: A method is provided for discriminating between the case of a single talker with an acoustic reflection and the case of two talkers, regardless of their power levels. The method is implemented in real time by performing a cross-correlation between pairs of average power signals originating from pairs of beamformers. A detection decision is then made based on the value of the cross correlation and its lag.