Audio-Visual Trends in Higher Education That Elevate the Learning Experience

As the landscape of higher education evolves, so does the role of audio-visual technology in shaping learning environments for in-person and remote students. Let’s explore the top 5 trends that are revolutionizing AV in higher education institutions – and the solutions that help create a more accessible and inclusive learning space.

1. Interactive and Collaborative Learning

Interactive and engaging learning experiences are increasing in popularity among colleges and universities, and AV technology is rising to meet this demand. Interactive displays, touchscreens, and collaboration tools are transforming traditional classrooms into dynamic hubs of innovation. These spaces empower students to actively participate in their education, fostering collaboration, critical thinking, and creativity.

Projection Technology
Create engaging and collaborative learning environments with projection technology from Epson. With support for easy reading, instruction, and communication, BrightLink ensures that all students are included while bringing classrooms to life with efficient collaboration. Explore the BrightLink 760Wi Interactive Projector and the Pro 1485FI Interactive Projector for details.

Yealink - MeetingBoard touch displaysInteractive Displays
Designed to increase productivity and participation, interactive touch displays allow for effortless collaboration. Featuring a built-in camera and premium audio, Yealink’s MeetingBoard and MAXHUB’s ViewPro Series simplify classrooms and workspaces for immersive hybrid instruction.

2. Flexible Environments and Multi-Use Spaces

The shift towards flexible learning environments is reshaping the physical layout of classrooms and lecture halls in higher education. AV technology plays a crucial role in creating adaptable spaces that can easily accommodate different teaching styles and activities. Wireless presentation systems, movable furniture, and modular AV setups enable educators to customize the learning experience to meet the needs of students.

Many universities have several multi-use spaces throughout campus, and these areas require versatile technology. Higher education spaces will often use libraries for events, lecture halls for guest speakers, and cafes and study spaces for small-scale performances and entertainment.

Sennheiser G4 300 SeriesAudio Solutions
During lectures and events, microphone systems help amplify the presenters for better engagement from in-person and remote participants. Top of the class in education, Sennheiser’s G4 300 Series Wireless handheld base set is the best choice if you need a handheld transmitter and maximum flexibility.

[For more, check out the blog titled “The Dreaded Gymcafatorium: 3 Keys to Successful Multi-Use Audio Design” – Exertis Almo’s Tom Kehr provides insight into audio design in these challenging multi-use spaces.]

Epson large venue projectorsSpace-Saving Projection
Epson’s line-up of large venue projectors are an ideal choice for multi-use spaces, featuring larger-than-life images and simple installation. For rooms with limited space, the Epson laser projectors transform virtually any flat surface into a display for learning and collaboration, without taking up any space when not in use.

Portable and easy to set up in any space, Panasonic’s PT-LMW420U portable projector will help elevate communication quality with crisp, detailed images that stay clearly visible in well-lit rooms. Plus, Panasonic projectors are so intuitive they can work with the software and hardware you already have and don’t require you to be a projection expert to use them.

AV Furniture to Setup Anywhere
Legrand-AV mounts screensAV systems must also be flexible to be able to handle constantly changing classroom needs to fit hybrid, hyflex, in-person and distance learning styles, often all in the same day. The Da-Lite Tensioned Advantage electric projection screens with SightLine elevate room aesthetics and simplify setup for flexible mounting in a variety of room sizes and ceiling heights.

Colleges and universities are embracing AV trends in digital signage now more than ever as a key element of their essential information-sharing and messaging plans for reaching everyone on campus. Whether it’s a mobile cart, floor stand, or kiosk, Legrand-AV offers the flexibility to move and place digital signage where it’s needed.

3. Assistive Listening for Inclusivity and Accessibility

assistive listening systemTechnology that promotes inclusivity and accessibility is paramount in education spaces, as it ensures that each student has the opportunity to learn and thrive. Incorporating assistive listening technology is crucial, as it ensures that each individual can fully participate in classroom discussions and activities, fostering equal access to educational opportunities for all students.

Perfect for venues with a capacity of up to 100 people, the the LS-57 Advanced Level II Stationary RF System from Listen Technologies broadcasts a strong, reliable RF to ensure the best possible listening experience for everyone.

4. Lecture Capture and Streaming for HyFlex Learning

In an era of digital learning, lecture capture technology has become a cornerstone of higher education institutions. AV systems equipped with lecture capture capabilities enable educators to record and archive lectures for on-demand access by students. This flexible learning model empowers students to review course materials at their own pace, reinforcing learning outcomes and accommodating diverse learning styles.

PTZOptics Move 4K cameraAuto-Tracking Capabilities
Engineered to simplify the hybrid learning process, auto-tracking cameras are a great option to ensure that students can always see the professor during the lecture. The Move 4K is the latest PTZ camera from PTZOptics, featuring auto-tracking for a more intelligent video production workflow. The Move 4K is capable of 4K at 60fps (1080p at 60fps over SDI), future-proofing your technology investment while still accommodating HD and Full HD video resolution equipment.

Lecture-Capture Solutions for the Classroom
In modern classrooms, lecture capture is essential to create an inclusive learning experience for each student. Additionally, many courses are now asynchronous, requiring a professor to pre-record the lecture material and upload for the students’ review.

Panasonic’s LCS-100 lecture capture appliance integrates with the ATS-200 / ATS-400 auto-tracking servers, and PTZ cameras with voice-triggered presets using Panasonic Pro Audio, including ceiling microphones, gooseneck and boundary microphones, and more.

The LC200 CaptureVision System from Lumens is an all-in-one media station that allows instructors to easily mix video and audio sources while streaming and recording lectures for engaging and attractive presentations.

5. AI-Powered Tech and Data for a Personalized Experience

AVer VB130Advancements in artificial intelligence (AI) are reshaping the landscape of higher education by enabling personalized learning experiences for each student. AI-powered analytics tools analyze student data to identify learning patterns, preferences, and areas for improvement. With this insight, educators can tailor instruction to meet the unique needs of each student, fostering deeper engagement and academic success. Here are a few key solutions to create a personalized experience for students:

AVer’s VB130 is a powerful, all-in-one hybrid learning tool featuring 4K video and built-in audio for an exceptional student experience. With advanced AI and SmartFrame technology, the videobar keeps the professor in camera view while focusing on their voice so students do not miss any content.
Designed for remote teaching rooms, Yealink’s A20 + CTP18 is equipped with AI technology, including auto-framing and speaker tracking, allowing instructors to create a vivid classroom experience without restricting movement.

Summing It Up

The future of higher education is bright with possibilities, thanks to the transformative power of audio-visual technology. As institutions continue to embrace these solutions and trends, we’re excited to partner with you in delivering innovative products that elevate learning experiences and empower students in the classroom and online.

Ready to embark on your AV journey?
Reach out to us today to explore how Exertis Almo can help you harness the power of technology to transform your educational projects.

 

Behind the Panel: Accessories in the Digital Signage Market

I am excited for this edition of Behind the Panel, as we are going to dive into digital signage. But what does that mean to us? Let’s look at what digital signage is:

Digital signage is a dynamic form of communication that utilizes digital displays to convey information, advertisements, or messages to viewers. Initially emerging as a modern alternative to traditional static signage, digital signage has evolved to become a versatile tool used across various industries such as retail, hospitality, transportation, and healthcare. With the ability to deliver real-time content updates, targeted messaging, and interactive experiences, digital signage has transformed the way businesses engage with their audience. Today, the digital signage industry continues to grow rapidly, driven by advancements in technology, such as high-definition displays, Direct View LED, cloud-based content management systems, and data analytics. This growth reflects the increasing demand for personalized and engaging communication strategies in both physical and digital spaces. Digital signage has truly become all encompassing. Everyone knows that you need a display of some kind for digital signage to work, and today, we are going to look at some of the more basic “nuts and bolts” that are needed to make your solution work. Luckily, for us, here at Exertis Almo, we have partnered with Legrand, who make these essential products that really do lay the groundwork for great digital signage experiences.

1. Mounting Solutions:

When it comes to digital signage, a sturdy and reliable mounting solution is crucial for ensuring the display is securely fixed in place. There are a range of mounting solutions that provide flexibility and ease of installation. Looking at our partners from Chief, whether it’s wall mounts, ceiling mounts, or floor stands, Chief’s products are designed to accommodate various display sizes and installation environments, making it easier to set up digital signage in diverse locations. They also are industry-leading in creating innovations that make installation much easier for integrators. Less time spent on the installation means more profit for the integrator. As I talked about when we discussed mounts way back in Volume 1, cheaper solutions are not always cheaper in the long run.

2. Cables/Cable Management:

C2GMaking sure that you have quality cables for your installation should be of extreme importance. Cables2Go has a wide range of cables, many of which are covered by a lifetime warranty and each cable is tested along the line. Can you buy a less expensive cable? Probably, but think down the road how much time is wasted deploying techs to a job for a faulty cable. Effective cable management is often overlooked by less experienced installers, but it’s essential for maintaining a clean and professional installation. Legrand’s cable management solutions from Chief and Middle Atlantic help organize and conceal cables, ensuring a neat and polished look for the digital signage setup. With options for both in-wall and on-wall cable management, Legrand products simplify the routing of cables, reducing clutter and minimizing the risk of damage to cables during installation. They even offer over floor and under carpet cable management through Wiremold.

3. Power and Connectivity:

Reliable power distribution and connectivity are fundamental to the seamless operation of digital signage. Middle Atlantic and Cables2Go‘s power and connectivity solutions offer the necessary infrastructure to support the display and its peripherals. From power outlets to data connectivity panels, CHIEF Tempo Wall System bundleLegrand products are designed to provide easy access to power and connectivity, simplifying the setup process and ensuring a robust electrical infrastructure for the digital signage system. Middle Atlantic has a full line of Power Strips, PDUs, and UPS battery backups that can work for almost any project size or budget. How about the ability to monitor power going to your signage display from anywhere in the world? With Middle Atlantic’s NEXSYS line, you can do that and so much more.

What if I told you Legrand makes an amazing solution for digital signage that includes mounting, cable management, and power all in one product. You should check out the Tempo Flat Panel Wall Mount System. It includes a wall mount, and the ability to install 2-6 small devices using the integrated Lever Lock storage panels. You can even have it shipped with a Middle Atlantic 7-outlet power strip!

4. Thermal Management:

Maintaining optimal operating temperatures is essential for the longevity and performance of digital signage displays. Whether you are using a kiosk solution from Chief or have your valuable equipment in a Middle Atlantic rack, Legrand’s thermal management solutions help dissipate heat efficiently, preventing overheating and ensuring the reliability of the display in various environmental conditions. By utilizing thermal management products, installers can enhance the longevity of the digital signage hardware and minimize the risk of performance issues due to excessive heat buildup.

5. Network Integration:

Luxul SwitcherIn most digital signage installations, integration with the local network is essential for delivering your message from your signage player to the display (unless, of course, your display has a built-in signage player, but we are not going down that wormhole today). Luxul switches are a popular choice in digital signage solutions due to their reliability, performance, and scalability. These switches are known for their robust design, specific to the AV industry, which ensures seamless operation in demanding environments where digital signage is deployed. With features like Quality of Service (QoS) support and VLAN capabilities, Luxul switches help prioritize traffic and ensure smooth delivery of content, resulting in a high-quality viewing experience for audiences. Their compatibility with various network setups and easy integration with other components make Luxul switches a preferred networking solution for powering and managing digital signage systems effectively.

That will about do it for this edition. Remember, when planning a digital signage installation, it is essential to consider the broader ecosystem of accessories beyond the display itself. Legrand’s range of mounting solutions, cable management products, power and connectivity solutions, thermal management products, and network solutions offer valuable support for installers, making the process smoother and the end result of higher quality. With Legrand’s commitment to innovation and reliability, installers can confidently tackle digital signage installations, knowing that they have the support of industry-leading accessories designed to simplify their work and enhance the overall quality of the installation.

See you next time, Behind the Panel!

Patrick Booth, BDM

About the Author

Patrick Booth | CTS, DSCE

Business Development Manager

Supported Manufacturers: Legrand AVChief, C2G, Da-Lite, Luxul, Middle Atlantic, Vaddio, Wiremold

Transform Worship Spaces with Cutting-Edge AV Solutions

In the dynamic House of Worship market, the fusion of spoken word, live music, and community events offers unique opportunities for professional audio-visual integrators to elevate devotional spaces and design enriching worship experiences with comprehensive, cutting-edge AV solutions. You can rely on Exertis Almo as a resource for the technology involved in designing systems that engage every member of a congregation – whether they are in the sanctuary, in overflow rooms, or participating remotely. These solutions also enable a broader reach for the worship organization through social media and video streaming, which can expand their resources for effective fundraising – fostering a stronger, more connected community.

From live streaming to artificial intelligence, technology innovations are reshaping AV solutions for worship spaces. Adapting to these tech trends ensures that your worship projects remain relevant and technologically advanced.

Let’s Explore 7 AV Technologies that are Uplifting the HoW Market:

Sony SRG-A40 auto-framing ptz camera1. Video and Live Streaming – Expand Community Outreach

With the paradigm shift towards remote ministry and hybrid congregations over the last few years, AV technology has become a bridge – connecting dispersed communities and providing comfort with familiar messages. As houses of worship embrace video technology in a new way, they can leverage live-streaming technology to reach a broader audience and enable congregants to participate in services from anywhere.

Video streaming cameras range from basic PTZ cameras to advanced tracking and framing capabilities. Unattended cameras can be discreetly installed in hard-to-reach places, covering any size of worship space with powerful zoom for frame-filling close-ups. To find out how bandwidth needs have expanded for worship spaces as a result of this trend toward video streaming, check out Rob Voorhees’ blog.

Harman - JBL-pro-audio - Martin-lighting2. Sound, Lighting, and Imagery – Uplift with Immersive Experiences

AV technology, including advanced sound systems and high-quality projectors, is enabling the creation of more immersive worship experiences. Visual enhancements, dynamic lighting, and surround sound all contribute to a more engaging atmosphere.

Projection mapping techniques can also be employed to transform the physical space of the worship area. This allows for dynamic visual storytelling and thematic enhancements

CHRISTIE projectors - projection mapping
Martin Lighting color wash

3. Digital Displays and Signage – Deliver Awe-Inspiring Visuals

Samsung the Wall dvLEDDigital signage is increasingly used for displaying announcements, song lyrics, and other information. This dynamic form of communication enhances engagement and keeps congregants informed. Overall, digital signage is an excellent way to facilitate community engagement and share updates, enhancing the overall worship experience.

Direct View LED all-in-one displays, such as Samsung’s The Wall, provide integrators with a drastically improved installation process, and new avenues to create unparalleled visual statements in common areas as well as behind the pulpit or on the stage inside the main sanctuary.

Atlona Twisted Pair ExtensionEffortlessly share messages throughout the facility in stunning 4K resolution with top connectivity solutions.

4. Interactive Displays and Collaboration Tools for Hybrid Congregations

Interactive teaching HisenseCollaboration tools and video conferencing solutions are integrated into AV setups, facilitating remote participation for members who are unable to attend physically.

Interactive displays and touchscreens, like Hisense’s GoBoard, are also being used for teaching and interactive worship sessions. This allows for a more dynamic and interactional experience for congregants, especially in educational settings.

5. Accessibility Features – Ensure Everyone is Included

Houses of worship are implementing various accessibility features, such as hearing loop systems and closed captioning services, to ensure that services are accessible to individuals with hearing impairments. From incorporating additional digital signage into the space to upgrading audio systems and features, accessibility is a key factor in fostering an environment where all members of the community can participate with ease.
Assistive Listening technologies
The spoken word is the most fundamental part of a worship service. Including support for hearing-impaired members with an assistive listening system can help address regulatory compliance, increase inclusivity, and expand reach so the message can be heard by all.

6. Podcasting and Social Media Content – Amplify the Message

worship podcastPodcasting studios within houses of worship have become more common, enabling the creation of audio content for a broader audience beyond those attending in-person. Acting as a supplement to traditional worship, podcasts have become a powerful tool for sharing discussions and teachings with a global audience, extending beyond the physical congregation.

Through podcasts and social media outreach, houses of worship can share and extend their influence and inclusivity, creating a sense of unity among listeners, regardless of their location.

7. Virtual Reality and Augmented Reality – Embrace the Future

AR VRWhile still emerging, some houses of worship are exploring the use of Virtual Reality (VR) and Augmented Reality (AR) technologies to create unique and immersive spiritual experiences, transcending traditional boundaries. By embracing this new technology in the House of Worship space, spirituality can become more accessible and adaptable to the evolving preferences of congregations.

We hope you’re inspired by the potential of AV technologies playing an integral role in designing immersive worship experiences, promoting accessibility, and adapting to the changing needs of worshipers. Exertis Almo is committed to assisting our integrator partners in optimizing technology for all your House of Worship projects. Whether it involves a simple upgrade or a complete redesign, our expertise lies in the seamless integration of audio, visual, and streaming capabilities to elevate every worship space.

Contact your Exertis Almo representative for assistance in designing your next AV system or selecting the optimal audiovisual equipment for your project.

The Modern Meeting Room

Our modern meeting rooms are full of the latest technology, but the humans in them are still using the same eyes and ears (interfaces) we were using since we started drawing pictures on cave walls.

Meeting RoomIt would seem to make sense then that we should be designing the room, and the meeting environment, first around the human and then applying the appropriate technology within the boundaries of human factors and ergonomics.

Designing for human factors reduces fatigue and stress, increases comfort, and provides greater user acceptance.  These sound like some pretty good goals for an audiovisual system and where we should first focus our attention.  In other words, we should be designing according to the limitations and needs of people.

So, what does the human need to do?  The human needs to be able to see and not just see but read and comprehend.  The human also needs to be able to hear clearly.  Further, the human needs to be heard clearly and intelligibly to those who are listening regardless of whether the listeners are in the same room or on the far side of a videoconference.

As far as reading and comprehension, there’s an ANSI (American National Standards Institute) standard for this, the ANSI/AVIXA V202 Display Image Size for 2D Content in Audiovisual Systems.  This handy little standard defines content size, image size related to content size, farthest viewer limits, closest viewer limits, and off-axis viewer limits. These limits draw the boundary lines for where to place the humans in physical relation to an image.  And this is within the context of being able to assimilate the content over time without fatigue.  This is not about testing the limits of human vision like with a Snellen chart during an eye exam.  It’s about making sure the humans are comfortable in the viewing environment whether it’s a one-hour meeting or an 8-hour class.  Keep in mind that the content to be comprehended by the viewers may only be a portion of the overall image size and you may need to design for the content portion and not solely the overall image size.  The ANSI/AVIXA V201 Image System Contrast Ratio standard is a companion piece and defines the minimum contrast ratio needed for a good image.  If you’ve done enough system measurements, you know there are way too many projected systems running at a 3:1 contrast ratio.

The human also needs to be able to hear.  While our Acoustic Echo Cancellers (AECs) and Digital Signal Processors (DSPs) have gotten much better at removing steady-state background noise out of the audio being sent to the far side in a videoconference, what about the people trying to communicate with each other in the same room?  Typically, the biggest noise offender is the HVAC system.  For many years now, the American Society of Heating, Refrigeration and Air-Conditioning Engineers (ASHRAE) has published Design Guidelines for HVAC-Related Background Sound in Rooms in the Sound and Vibration chapters of their Handbooks.  You will find that the maximum background noise in conference rooms and classrooms should be no more than NC/RC 30 (approximately 35 dB SPL A-wtd).  The ANSI/ASA S12.60 Acoustical Performance Criteria, Design Requirements, and Guidelines for Schools agree with the maximum background noise level of 35 dB SPL A-wtd.  Again, if you’ve done enough measurements, you know most spaces fall far short of these criteria.  You can think of this as an acoustic signal-to-noise ratio – the ratio of background noise compared to speech level.

Conference MeetingA close second to the maximum allowable background noise level is the acoustical performance of the space.  This is the actual sound signature of the room, and I can think of nothing more important that is also the least considered or even ignored.  While the trend has been towards glass walls, shiny floors, wood panels and other acoustically “hard” surfaces, these materials are the least friendly when it comes to the acoustical criteria needed for human communication.  Jun Lim recently wrote, “No matter how excellent an audio system is, it cannot surpass the limitations imposed by the acoustic environment.”  The late John Murray once said, “Once the sound leaves the loudspeakers, it’s out in the wild”.  “Acoustically friendly” doesn’t have to mean plain or ugly but aesthetics devoid of acoustical considerations impedes the ability to communicate.

A group of us were in a 42 ft. x 32 ft. conference room in an Experience Center of a well-known audio manufacturer in the Chicago area back in November and I stopped everyone and measured the background noise of the room at RC29.  The room was a delight.  Conversation was easy anda low noise floor helps people to relax because they aren’t having to work to understand what’s being said.  An ambient noise problem is magnified if not everyone is able to communicate using their first language.

A major audio manufacturer did a survey just prior to the pandemic.  The survey revealed that 96% of professionals were frustrated with their virtual meetings and 4 out of the top 5 frustrations were related to audio and that “flawless” audio was four times more important than video.  Two of the top five identified frustrations were background noise and not being able to hear each person.  Unfortunately, most buyers responsible for outfitting meeting rooms will be inundated with the lure of new aspect ratios, ever higher resolutions and other shiny audio and video objects that promise to bring all your meetings into the next dimension.  A proper meeting room should first focus on the criteria required for excellent human communication.  While all of us, myself included, absolutely love the look of the latest technology, getting the room itself right should be the priority.  As Pat Brown once said, “The Cloud won’t fix your room.”

I am betting that the leading cause of “Zoom fatigue” is actually the result of the effort and concentration it takes to try and overcome poor audio issues and improperly sized content.

Selling the latest 64:9 display with 32K resolution along with the newest gamma ray-focused mic array and volcanic loudspeakers does not guarantee a high-performance meeting room.  I would argue that a modern high-performance meeting room is one that is designed considering human factors and comfort and adhering to the standards and references mentioned above.  Make it comfortable and easy for the humans to see and hear and they’ll be free to spend their energy on the topic at hand.Exertis Almo Calculators

If you’re interested in how to work towards implementing an actual high-performance meeting room, reach out to anyone here at Exertis Almo and let us help you make your rooms better than anyone else’s.

To make some of this easier, we’ve developed a new online calculator for image sizes and PAG-NAG that can be very useful: https://www.exertisalmo.com/tools/calculator.aspx

If you enjoyed this blog, you’ll enjoy watching these on-demand, educational webinars hosted by Tom.

Tom Kehr

About the Author

Tom Kehr

CTS-D, CTS-I, Network+, LEED Green Associate, ISF-C, ATD Master Trainer

In-House System Designer and Trainer

Supported Applications: System Design

 

Revolutionizing Collaboration: Emerging Trends in All-in-One AV Solutions

In the fast-evolving landscape of professional audio-visual (AV) technology, a notable trend is gaining momentum – the integration of content sharing, conference cameras, microphones, and speakers into all-in-one solutions. This shift is not only transforming the way we approach collaboration, but also streamlining solution designs for integrators and enhancing the overall user experience.

Simplifying Integration for Designers and Installers

Traditionally, AV integrators and installers faced the challenge of coordinating various components for seamless collaboration setups. The emergence of all-in-one solutions, such as those combining content sharing, conference cameras, microphones, and speakers, significantly simplifies the integration process. This not only saves time for designers but also reduces the complexity of installations, making it easier to deliver polished solutions.

User-Friendly Collaboration

End users benefit from the intuitive nature of these integrated solutions. With a unified system, users can effortlessly share content, engage in video conferences, and enjoy high-quality audio without grappling with a web of devices and cables. The simplicity enhances productivity and encourages more effective communication in diverse settings, from boardrooms to remote work setups.

 Affordable and Compact Deliverables

The integration of multiple functionalities into a single device also contributes to cost-effectiveness. The streamlined design eliminates the need for purchasing and maintaining separate components, resulting in a more budget-friendly solution. Moreover, the compact form factor not only saves space, but also allows for flexible deployment in various environments.

Leveraging Cloud-Based Platforms for Advanced Features

Cloud-based platforms play a pivotal role in advancing AV systems. Barco’s XMS Cloud, for instance, empowers integrators to engineer, modify, and monitor AV setups remotely. This capability ensures proactive maintenance, reducing downtime and enhancing overall system reliability. Cloud-based solutions offer scalability, making it easier to adapt to evolving technological needs.

Barco’s All-in-One Innovation

Barco takes a leap forward in embracing these industry trends with the introduction of an all-in-one video bar – a ClickShare, camera, micorphone, and speaker Bar. This innovative product not only aligns with the growing demand for integrated AV solutions but also reflects Barco’s commitment to simplifying collaboration while maintaining high-quality standards and eco-friendly mentality.

By combining the power of content sharing, conferencing capabilities, and audio features in a single device, Barco’s solution caters to the changing dynamics of modern workspaces. The integration of such features into a compact, user-friendly package ensures that end-users experience a seamless collaboration environment.

In conclusion, the emergence of all-in-one AV solutions represents a significant leap forward in the professional audio-visual industry. This trend not only simplifies integration processes for designers and installers, but also enhances the user experience through user-friendly design, affordability, and compactness. The incorporation of cloud-based platforms further ensures that these systems remain adaptive, efficient, and easily maintainable. Barco’s latest offering stands at the forefront of these advancements, showcasing a commitment to innovation and meeting the evolving needs of the modern workplace. While all-in-one are well suited for small- to medium-sized rooms, larger rooms still benefit from the features offered in separate components as they are more suited to the complexities of covering larger spaces. It’s important to keep in mind that all-in-one solutions, as beneficial as they are, are not “once-size-fit-all” solutions.

Reach out to your Exertis Almo rep for assistance in determining which product will be best suited for your project.

Nathan Dwelly BDM
About the Author

Nathan Dwelly

BDM – Brand Specialist

Supported Manufacturers: Barco (East)

Breaking Down DVLED part 5 – First Things First

Part 4: First Things Frist

Topic: The importance of proper site prep.

I remember working in the garage as a kid with my dad, and it seemed like 80% of the time we were cleaning up and 20% of the time we were actually working on a project. He would always say, “a clean workspace is a safe workspace!”

I didn’t really appreciate that wisdom then, but I do now.

Whether you are hanging and banging a 50-inch LCD display in a conference room or installing and commissioning a 220-inch LED video wall in an auditorium, the same wisdom applies in terms of making sure the site is ready, all the tools for the job are on hand, and the project punch list is ready to execute.

For dvLED displays, the site prep requirements are pretty rigid, and for good reason. I’m going to discuss a few universal requirements that you will run into on almost every dvLED project.

To begin, often times a tech will be scheduled to come onsite to assist with or even perform the installation. They are typically slated to be onsite for a limited window of time. It is the integrators responsibility to ensure that everything is ready for them to jump in and start working when they arrive to the site. Delays could be cause for extending the time required for the tech to be onsite. This usually leads to change orders. And we all know how much our customers dislike those!

Another important site requirement spec that you will undoubtedly run into are power and data requirements. Big walls require more power, and as such, this requires more outlets. AV integrators aren’t electricians, so it’s critical to have the proper spec requirements in advance to provide to the end user. Fortunately, many vendors, such as Absen and others, provide this information via written specs and technical drawings.

voltage-diagram

One of the most important considerations when installing a dvLED video wall is the actual wall surface that it is mounting to. Since dvLED walls are made up of multiple cabinets and modules and are, by nature, designed to be seamless, it is very important to ensure that there are no seams! This is why you will often see requirements for cabinet or marine grade plywood backing. At minimum, BC Sanded One-Side will be required to ensure that the X-axis is completely flat and true. Considering the cost of the video wall, the extra investment in some plywood is a small price to pay to ensure the wall is perfect.

Finally, you need a plan to dispose of all the waste that is left behind. A typical video wall might ship in four or five large wooden crates, with dozens of large cartons and packages enclosed. This can result in a literal mountain of trash. Have a plan to remove this from this site as you go. A cluttered work area is a hazardous work. So as a wise man once said, “a clean workspace is a safe workspace.” Thanks dad…

This concludes my five-part series on Breaking Down DVLED. I hope you have found these articles useful, and I encourage you all to reach out to me directly if you have dvLED projects on the horizon that I can assist you with.
Check out my other installments if you haven’t already:

Part 1: Got Spares?
Topic: The importance of having spares when purchasing / commissioning a DVLED video wall.

Part 2: Cabinets and Modules and Panels, Oh My!!!
Topic: The anatomy of a DVLED video wall.

Part 3: Perfect Pitch
Topic: The importance of selecting the right pixel pitch the first time

Part 4: The First Step in Installing a DVLED Video Wall is Admitting You Need Help
Topic: Commissioning Assistance and Why it’s Important.

Tom Keefe BDM

About the Author

Tom Keefe | CTS, DMC-D-4K, DSCE

Business Development Manager – Brand Specialist

Supported Manufacturers: Absen

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