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Enhancing Audio Quality for Effective Collaboration

by | Jul 16, 2024 | Cameras, Collaboration, Pro Audio, Uncategorized

Conference Room Acoustics

In the dynamic world of professional audio-video solutions, the importance of clear and immersive audio experiences in conference rooms cannot be overstated. Effective collaboration hinges not only on high-definition visuals but also on crystal-clear sound quality. As resellers and integrators, understanding and implementing cutting-edge solutions for optimizing conference room acoustics can significantly elevate the overall meeting experience for our clients.

Acoustics play a crucial role in how well audio is transmitted and received within a conference room environment. Factors such as room size, shape, and materials used in construction can affect sound quality. Poor acoustics, characterized by echoes, reverberations, and background noise, can hinder communication and reduce meeting productivity.

Recent advancements in acoustic treatment and technology have revolutionized how we address these challenges. Acoustic panels and diffusers are designed to absorb and diffuse sound energy which helps to enhance speech intelligibility and clarity. Integrating these solutions into conference room design can create an environment where every word is heard with precision, fostering ideal communication among meeting participants.

Video Cameras Track Speakers

Positional tracking is a sophisticated technique essential for determining the precise position and orientation of objects, including cameras and users, within three-dimensional space. It operates through a series of steps:

First, sensors like accelerometers, gyroscopes, and depth cameras gather data on movement, detailing acceleration, rotation, and depth. Next, this sensor data is fused to estimate the object’s exact position and orientation using algorithms that interpret changes over time. The system then identifies feature points in the environment, such as visual markers or distinctive elements, which are matched with a reference map to refine tracking accuracy. Continuously updated estimates of position and orientation are recalibrated via a feedback loop, correcting any deviations to maintain accuracy.

speaker framing In video conferencing systems, positional tracking technology is pivotal for enhancing auto-tracking and speaker framing capabilities. Auto-tracking enables cameras to autonomously follow speakers as they move within a room, utilizing visual cues like face detection and body movement to adjust camera orientation. This feature ensures that speakers remain within view. Speaker framing, on the other hand, focuses on centrally positioning the active speaker in the camera’s frame, particularly beneficial in multi-participant settings. By analyzing audio cues, such as voice activity detection and microphone array data, conferencing systems triangulate the speaker’s location using techniques like time delay of arrival (TDOA) and adaptive beamforming. This dual approach, combining audio source localization with visual tracking, ensures comprehensive coverage and accurate framing during video conferences.

The integration of video conferencing platforms with advanced audio solutions is vital to delivering a desirable collaboration experience. Compatibility with leading platforms allows for easy integration and enhances user accessibility. Features such as automatic speaker tracking, echo cancellation, and spatial audio technology further improve the immersive experience, making remote participants feel as if they are in the same room.

Effective Collaboration Solutions

As we strive to create optimal meeting environments, solutions like Barco’s ClickShare play a crucial role in simplifying content sharing and enhancing collaboration. ClickShare seamlessly integrates with existing AV setups, allowing users to wirelessly share content from any device with just the click of a button. Its intuitive interface and robust security features make it a preferred choice for facilitating productive meetings across different platforms.

Barco has introduced ClickShare Bar Pro, an all-in-one solution that sets new standards in meeting room technology. This innovative device combines seamless content sharing with advanced audio and video capabilities. Featuring group framing, speaker framing, and tracking functionalities, ensuring participants are always in focus and perfectly framed during meetings. Moreover, it is equipped with six beamforming MEMS microphones, offering superior echo and background noise cancellation. This ensures crystal-clear audio quality, enabling natural and effortless communication even in challenging acoustic environments.

By integrating these cutting-edge features into a single device, Barco enhances the efficiency and effectiveness of collaboration in modern meeting spaces. The ClickShare Bar Pro delivers an unparalleled meeting experience boosting engagement and productivity.

Future of Conference Room Design

In conclusion, the future of conference room design lies in embracing innovative solutions that prioritize audio quality alongside visual clarity. By staying abreast of evolving trends in acoustic treatment and adaptive audio technology, resellers and integrators can offer tailored solutions that meet the unique needs of their clients. Whether optimizing small huddle rooms or expansive boardrooms, investing in advanced audio solutions ensures that every meeting is productive, collaborative, and engaging.

At Exertis Almo, we are committed to supporting you in delivering superior AV solutions that exceed client expectations. Contact us today to explore how our comprehensive range of products and expertise can help you transform conference room environments into centers of seamless collaboration and communication.

Want more like this blog? Check out “Elevating Collaboration Spaces: Improving Design and Funcitionality“.

Nathan Dwelly BDM
About the Author

Nathan Dwelly

BDM – Brand Specialist

Supported Manufacturers: Barco ClickShare

Nothing Beats a Wire

by | Jul 11, 2024 | Pro Audio, Uncategorized

“The new pastor would like to have hardwired microphones instead of wireless for the following locations…”

What a refreshing request: hardwired microphones.  Yes, I’m aware that wireless cleans up the stage and wireless certainly looks better on camera, especially since so many churches are now streaming their services each week.

But do I really need a wireless for a lectern or pulpit?  Or for a vocalist on a piano or even the vocal for a guitar player who’s not moving around? 

Wired MicrophonesI’ve even seen an increase in requests for wireless for city council chambers.  Read that again.  For a city council.  They sit behind a council table.  Your typical local council is probably well known for being intractable and immovable so I can’t fathom the need for a wireless in that application.  Hardwired mics only.

Remember when our UHF wireless microphones had to vacate the 600 MHz spectrum not all that long ago?  You couldn’t simply tune to a new frequency, you had to replace the entire system.  Plus, there’s the cost and maintenance of batteries.  If you’re using rechargeable batteries, you need to make sure the transmitters are placed back in the charging station after use.  And when those batteries no longer hold a charge, there’s proper disposal issues and you need to purchase new batteries.  The more things the end user has to remember, the more they may be overlooked.

If you’re using UHF wireless, you need a frequency band that works in your specific area, and you need to coordinate frequencies with the other UHF wireless units that you have (microphones, IEMs, intercom).  If you have multiple receivers, you’re looking at antenna distribution, remote antennas, coax runs, etc.  If you’re using DECT at 1.9 GHz or using 2.4 GHz, there’s the possibility of interference from other unlicensed devices. 

What maintenance is required with a hardwired microphone?  I’ll wait….

The late Ray Rayburn is famous for saying, “A wireless microphone is just a very expensive replacement for a 25 ft. mic cable.”

If you’re using quality mic cable and name-brand XLR connectors and wrap your cables properly, a good mic cable will last decades on stage.  A few years ago, I was assisting a friend on a gig outside of Nashville and did a double take when I saw the same mic cables that I had soldered together and labeled almost three decades ago.  How did I know these were my original cables?  By the brand of cable and connectors used, and by the wire markers from my Ideal wire marker booklet that I saw under the clear heat shrink.  The cables still had my RipTie cable wraps!  He was now the third owner of these cables.  Wow.

As far as mic cables, you might as well make your own.  Even if you buy a quality premade, you still need to pull the connector off one end so you can label them.  Use a numbering scheme that combines cable identification with length so you don’t have to chase cables on stage.  Secure those cable IDs under clear heat shrink and finish the job with a permanent cable tie on the male end of each XLR cable.  (You do know how to solder, don’t you?)

Consider also what you’re either getting or giving up, in the choice of hardwired or wireless.  For the price of a lower-cost wireless system, you can buy a magnificent-sounding hardwired microphone.

Something that I think has been lost with the increase in less expensive wireless microphones: sound quality.  While those with real budgets can afford a higher-end wireless sporting a high-quality mic capsule on top, everyone else has been settling for what I would consider lower-end capsules just for the supposed convenience of going wireless.

I think it’s time we rediscover the joy of listening to a really good wired microphone.

Excellent microphones and labeled quality cables will be some of your most reliable friends ever and it will never need batteries.

THE EXCEPTION

BaptistryThere is only one absolute rule when not to use a hardwired microphone: the baptistry.  Never, ever place a hardwired microphone within reach of a baptistry.  In the mid-2000s, Reverend Kyle Lake of University Baptist Church in Waco, TX was electrocuted as his hand made contact with a hardwired microphone connected to the church’s audio system.  It wasn’t the fault of the correctly installed audio system or phantom power, it was a short circuit that had developed in the baptismal water heater.  The investigation revealed that the older water heater wasn’t up to current electrical codes and it lacked a ground wire.  When Reverend Lake touched the microphone, he became an inadvertent electrical path as the electricity sought a way to return to its source.  If you need a wireless, the baptistry is the perfect application.

If you need help selecting the right magnificent hardwired (or wireless) mic for your application, let us know here at Exertis Almo.  We would love to help you rediscover the wonderful sound of a wire.

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

Samsung’s Consumer LED Technologies and Where to Use Them

by | Jul 9, 2024 | Consumer TVs, Uncategorized

Evolution of Consumer TVs and LED Technologies

1st mass produced TVThere’s an old saying, “You learn something new every day.” Well, did you know that the first version of the television was mechanical? I had no idea! It was invented in the 1920s and sold commercially in the UK, France, US, and the Soviet Union. The first electronic televisions using CRTs, or cathode ray tubes, were originally manufactured for commercial sale in the 1930s. They did not gain wide appeal in the US until RCA introduced their RCA 630-TS which was the first mass-produced TV set released in 1946. To this day, people still use the phrase, “watching the tube” when referring to TV viewing because of the tubes used in these models.

We’ve certainly come a long way in the past century from mechanical and CRT sets to plasma panels which came and went, giving way to the LED displays of our current times. Before we dive into the current LED technologies, let’s first examine what the role of LEDs, or light-emitting diodes, are in TVs. LEDs combine to make pixels which are the tiny dots or squares on the screen. LED TVs utilize a liquid crystal display (LCD) panel on top of the LEDs that illuminate the LCD from behind or the edge. The number of pixels determines the picture’s resolution. Having more and smaller LEDs leads to a more accurate picture.

Now, let’s talk about the current state of Consumer LED Technologies used by Samsung TVs and the best places to deploy them.

LED

Standard LED TVs typically utilize edge backlighting and control dimming over larger areas of the screen. This allows less control over each pixel and lower contrast and black level accuracy compared to newer LED tech. Samsung’s Crystal UHD Series offers 4K resolution in all their models which are great for the average viewer.

Where to use:

  • Most spaces are perfectly suited for standard LED TVs.
  • Places where picture quality is not the highest priority.
    • Think of break rooms, cafeterias, waiting rooms, and other places where having a TV on as an information source, or as a conversation starter is the main concern.
    • Homes that watch TV casually and do not have any videophiles living there.

QLED

QLED, or Quantum dot LED, is a variation of LED that uses smaller pixels for a more accurate picture. Samsung describes them as, “manufactured nanocrystals that consist of ultra-fine semiconductor materials.” Quantum dots produce different colors depending on the particle size. These dots create efficient and accurate light great for bright and dark rooms alike. QLED TVs come in edge lit models or the more premium TVs will use direct LED lighting. The latter provides more accurate black levels by using full-array local dimming.

Where to use:

  • Almost anywhere.
  • Brightly lit rooms with more ambient light.
  • Places where picture quality matters.
  • Entry level home theaters, gaming rooms, and man caves.

Neo QLED

Neo QLED differs from QLED in how the panel is lit. As mentioned above, QLED uses edge or direct lighting to illuminate the display. Neo QLED TVs are comprised of tens of thousands of “Mini-LEDs.” More LEDs means more control over the picture quality, color, and brightness. One limitation of Neo QLED TVs is “blooming” or the bleeding of light into dark areas on the screen.

Where to use:

  • Rooms with lots of ambient light.
    • NeoQLED TVs are known for producing high brightness images that can overcome natural and artificial light sources.
  • Places where picture quality is a high priority.
  • Step up to high end home theaters, gaming rooms, and man caves.

OLED

OLED, or Organic LED, is entirely different from other forms of LED in that it is emissive, much like plasma TVs were. Each pixel emits its own light, rather than transmitting light from another source. This control of the light at the pixel level helps to produce perfect black levels by simply not illuminating the pixels that are to appear black. Other types of LEDs use dimming zones, but even the most advanced dimming zone technology simply dims areas and not individual pixels. One drawback to OLED is that it cannot produce the same brightness levels of its QLED and Neo QLED counterparts.

Where to use:

  • Rooms with lower ambient light.
  • Rooms that do not have static images for long periods of time.
    • Playing the same video game, watching the same news/sports channel, or using the same computer program can cause image retention, or burn-in.
  • Places where picture quality is a top priority.
  • High end home theaters, gaming rooms, and man caves.

MicroLED

MicroLED TVs use LEDs so small they are measured in micrometers, hence the name MicroLED. No backlighting is used as pixels are controlled at the individual level. This provides immense contrast ratios by offering deep blacks and pure, bright whites. A broad color gamut and ultra-wide viewing angles are additional benefits of this technology. Unlike OLED, they are not limited in brightness by organic material design or prone to burn-in. Currently, MicroLED is a cutting-edge technology and is priced as such. It is also limited to very large sizes with offerings of 101” and 114”. The pixels in MicroLED are not yet small enough to make a 55” panel that would require 8.3 million pixels for a 4K resolution.

Where to use:

  • Places where picture quality is the highest priority.
  • Ultra-premium home theaters.
  • Anywhere you can fit one if you can afford one.

Hopefully this will help to simplify all of the current LED technologies Samsung is offering in their consumer TV lineup and will help you make informed decisions about where to deploy each of them.

Did you find this post helpful? Learn more about outdoor displays in Gerry’s blog, “Ingress Protection: the other IP of AV“.

Gerry Aubrey

About the Author

Gerry Aubrey | DSCE

Business Development Manager

Supported Manufacturers: Samsung CE

SMART Hotel-Room Solutions: In-Room Experiences with an At-Home Feel

by | Jun 25, 2024 | Hospitality, Uncategorized

SMART Hotel-Room Solutions<br /> In-Room Experiences with an At-Home Feel

SMART devices are an essential part of staying connected, especially in today’s fast-paced reality. More and more, guests are looking for seamless technology solutions in their hotel rooms — technology that meets or exceeds their expectations. From charging stations to streaming services, hotels have the opportunity to provide an in-room experience that feels like home, only better. Let’s explore the latest SMART hotel-room solutions, perfect for enhancing the overall guest experience.

Rest, Relax, Recharge:

Provide guests with continuous charging for every device, all at once. Whether it’s a single phone or five separate devices, your guests should have every opportunity to power-up during their stay. Leading brands, like NonStop, offer a wide range of innovative charging solutions, designed specifically for hotel rooms:

NonStopStation P

As an all-in-one solution, this universal charging station is the perfect hub for ALL of your guests’ devices. This station features:

  • QI-Wireless Charging Pad
  • Dual USB-C and USB-A Charging Ports
  • Dual AC Sockets
  • Braided Cable
  • Security C-Clamp

Learn more about NonStop charging solutions »

Personalized and Powerful Viewing:

The evolution of SMART-TVs has redefined the meaning of in-room service and entertainment. With these recent innovations, you can send personalized messaging to individual guest room TVs, push real-time information like weather, hotel events, and guest amenities, and streamline in-room activities, such as check-out, in-room dining, and program selection. In addition, providing your guests with access to a wide range of entertainment options and streaming services has never been easier. Brands like Samsung and LG are leading the way in SMART in-room TVs, and their solutions are sure to impress.

Samsung In-Room SMART TVs

Samsung’s Pro TV series is designed specifically for hotels. Key features include:

  • Crystal UHD Display: Guests can enjoy stunning visuals with Samsung’s high-resolution displays.
  • Smart Hub: Access popular streaming services like Netflix, Hulu, and Amazon Prime directly from the TV.
  • Customizable Welcome Screen: Leave a lasting impression with personalized welcome messages and hotel-specific branding.

Explore Samsung’s Guest-Room TVs »

LG In-Room SMART TVs:

LG’s hotel-room TVs provide exceptional entertainment options for guests. Features include:

  • Pro:Centric Smart: LG’s platform allows hotels to customize content, provide local information, and offer interactive services, while allowing guests streaming options.
  • Ultra HD Display: Guests can enjoy vivid, eye-catching colors and sharp images.
  • Energy-Efficient: LG TVs are designed to be eco-friendly and cost effective.

Learn more about LG’s Guest-Room TVs »

Innovation that Leaves a Lasting Impression  

SMART hotel room solutions are essential for providing guests with an exceptional in-room experience. Whether it’s wireless charging or state-of-the-art TVs, hotels that invest in these technologies will create memorable stays for their guests, and keep them coming back for more.

Did you find this blog helpful?
You may also enjoy “The Future of Hospitality: Innovations to Watch in 2024”.

Connect with Hospitality at Exertis Almo on LinkedIn, or visit Hospitality.ExertisAlmo.com.

Behind the Panel: Effective Communication is the Key

by | Jun 20, 2024 | Business Development, Professional Development, Uncategorized

In the dynamic world of Professional Audio-Visual (Pro AV), where technology meets creativity, one fundamental aspect reigns supreme: communication. Whether you are a newcomer or a seasoned player, understanding the pivotal role of communication and honing your communication skills can elevate your success in this industry to new heights. At its core, effective communication serves as the cornerstone of collaboration. In a world where cross-functional teams, diverse stakeholders, and global partnerships are the norm, the ability to convey ideas, share information, and align objectives is paramount.

Let’s delve into why effective communication is so important in the Pro AV landscape.

building business relationshipsBuilding Strong Relationships

At the heart of any successful business lie robust relationships. Effective communication forms the bedrock upon which these relationships are built. Whether it is with customers, team members, or vendors, clear and open communication fosters trust and mutual understanding. I once had a boss who used to tell me I was communicating in the wrong fashion, because I would email my vendors, as opposed to picking up the phone and having a conversation. In my mind, I was communicating, but he had a point, because often with email or text, you can lose or gain meaning as people reading can take inflection where there was none, and it is a little less personal. Now, I was still able to get my message across, but to his point, when you have an actual conversation, it is easier to really get your message across. If you are truly trying to establish a relationship and rapport with someone, then you need to have a conversation. Pro tip: Everything starts with a conversation!

Example: Imagine you are working on a large-scale installation project. Clear communication channels between your team and the client ensure that expectations are aligned, potential issues have been addressed proactively, and the project progresses smoothly. Regular updates and transparent discussions build a rapport of reliability and professionalism, laying the groundwork for future collaborations. On the flipside, what happens when there is a break in communication, and someone is left in the dark? You get people that feel they are not taken care of, not paid attention to, and that can damage your relationship beyond repair. Even if you don’t have the full answer, just reaching out to let someone know you are working on a solution can go extremely far. Try and put yourself in their situation and empathize, you would want to know someone is addressing your concern.

Improving Workflow

In the fast-paced world of Pro AV, seamless workflow is paramount. Effective communication streamlines processes, minimizes errors, and maximizes efficiency.

Example: In a bustling warehouse, effective communication between inventory managers and procurement teams ensures that stock levels are monitored effectively. Timely updates on inventory status, equipment availability, and delivery schedules facilitate smooth operations, preventing delays and optimizing resource utilization. This is why it is so vital for all your forms of communication to be working in the world of distribution. Real-time information is constantly needed, so if there is “a break in the chain,” there are alternative routes for the information to flow.

proactive customer serviceEnhancing Customer Service

No matter what industry you are in, exceptional customer service is non-negotiable. Clear and empathetic communication can turn a standard transaction into a memorable experience, fostering loyalty and repeat business.

Example: Picture a scenario where a customer encounters technical difficulties with their order. Prompt and courteous communication from your support team not only resolves the issue swiftly, but also leaves the customer feeling valued and supported. Their positive experience becomes a testament to your commitment to customer satisfaction, enhancing your brand reputation and driving future referrals. If you keep this in mind, you will have earned a customer for life. It is not easy to do, and like any other skill, communication needs to be practiced every day. Fast response time is everything to customers, vendors, coworkers, the list goes on. Somebody once suggested that in the business world, treat everyone like they are your customer, be responsive, attentive, and respectful, and this can alleviate many ill feelings that could arise from the dreaded “Lack of Communication.”

Delivering Bad News

Sometimes, even if you have done everything right, problems will occur in the real world, but it is how effectively you communicate that can turn a negative into a positive. We live in a world now that has component shortages, rising freight costs, and turbulent political times. On top of that, with so many people involved in the sales process along the way, human error can also rear its ugly head.  Pro tip: Taking ownership is the key.

Example: A customer with a tight deadline has product(s) that is missing from their order. It turns out that when their order was entered into the system, the quantities were incorrect. You do not have a lot of choices here, but there are some that would do two things that will really never work: Blame and avoid. Blaming someone who may have made the error benefits you in the short term, as the customer is not angry with you, but it is a bad look for your company. Pro Tip: Be honest, take ownership of the situation and stay involved until a resolution is reached. You may end up losing a sale, but most people will have to respect that you communicated with them through the process and kept them as informed as possible.

Tips for Effective Communication in Pro AV

  1. Active Listening: Take the time to listen attentively to your customers’ needs and concerns. Understanding their requirements lays the foundation for tailored solutions and lasting relationships.
  2. Clarity and Simplicity: Avoid technical jargon when communicating with non-technical stakeholders. Clear, concise language ensures that everyone is on the same page and minimizes misunderstandings.
  3. Flexibility: Adapt your communication style to suit the preferences of your audience. Whether it is face-to-face meetings, emails, or phone calls, choose the mode of communication that resonates best with the recipient.
  4. Empathy: Put yourself in your customers’ shoes and approach every interaction with empathy and understanding. Acknowledge their challenges and demonstrate your commitment to finding solutions that meet their needs.
  5. Feedback Loops: Encourage open feedback channels within your team and with your customers. Constructive feedback fosters continuous improvement and strengthens relationships.

Conclusion

In the fast-paced and ever-evolving landscape of technology, effective communication is not just a desirable trait – it is a strategic imperative. By prioritizing clear, empathetic communication with customers, team members, and vendors, you can build strong relationships, optimize workflow, and deliver unparalleled customer service. So, embrace the power of communication and watch as it propels you toward success in this exciting world of Pro AV. Don’t forget – everything starts with a conversation.

If you enjoyed this blog, you should check out my CTS story: “Behind the Panel: Teaching an Old Dog New Tricks, or How I Learned to Study Again!“
Patrick Booth, BDM

About the Author

Patrick Booth | CTS, DSCE

Business Development Manager

Supported Manufacturers: Legrand AV – Chief, C2G, Da-Lite, Luxul, Middle Atlantic, Vaddio, Wiremold

ProAV Network Switches: A Harmonious Blend of Technology and Performance

by | Jun 18, 2024 | Networked AV, Pro Audio, Uncategorized

The World of ProAV Network Switches

In the realm of professional audio-visual (Pro AV) technology, where every decibel matters and every pixel counts, the unseen heroes orchestrating seamless operations are network switches. Often overlooked but absolutely crucial, these silent conductors form the backbone of modern AV systems, ensuring that audio and video signals flow flawlessly, without hiccups or delays. Let’s dive into the world of network switches in professional AV and uncover the magic they bring to the stage.

AV in ConcertsImagine a large-scale conference, a live concert, or a corporate presentation. Behind the scenes, there’s a complex network of AV equipment working tirelessly to deliver an immersive experience to the audience. At the heart of this network lies the network switch, serving as a central hub that connects various AV devices such as cameras, microphones, speakers, displays, and media servers.

Performance and Reliability

In Pro AV environments, reliability is non-negotiable. Network switches designed for this industry prioritize uptime and stability, utilizing advanced features like Quality of Service (QoS), redundancy protocols, and multicast support to ensure that audio and video streams are transmitted without interruption. Whether it’s a high-definition video feed or multi-channel audio, these switches deliver uncompromising performance, allowing professionals to focus on their craft without worrying about technical glitches.

Bandwidth and Throughput

One of the key challenges in AV networking is managing bandwidth and throughput effectively. With the rise of ultra-high-definition (UHD) content and immersive audio formats, the demand for data-intensive applications has surged. Network switches tailored for professional AV environments are equipped with high-speed ports, advanced traffic management capabilities, and ample throughput to handle the demands of modern multimedia.

Many AV installations require real-time streaming and low-latency communication, making ultra-fast switching crucial. With features like low latency forwarding and buffering, specialized network switches minimize delay and jitter, ensuring that audio and video signals reach their destination with minimal latency, preserving synchronization and enhancing the overall user experience.

Management and Control

In the world of professional AV, flexibility and control are paramount. Network switches offer sophisticated management options, allowing administrators to configure, monitor, and troubleshoot the network with ease. From intuitive web-based interfaces to powerful command-line tools, these switches provide a range of management capabilities tailored to the needs of AV professionals.
Netgear M4250 AV Switches
Furthermore, network switches play a crucial role in network security, safeguarding sensitive audiovisual content from unauthorized access or tampering. With support for advanced security features such as Access Control Lists (ACLs), port security, and encryption, these switches ensure that data remains confidential, and integrity is maintained throughout the AV ecosystem.

Scalability and Adaptability

As AV installations grow in complexity and scale, network infrastructure must evolve to accommodate changing requirements. Network switches offer scalability and adaptability, allowing organizations to expand their AV systems seamlessly without sacrificing performance or reliability. Whether it’s adding new endpoints, integrating emerging technologies, or supporting larger audiences, these switches provide the flexibility to scale up or down as needed.

Moreover, network switches in professional AV are designed to integrate with other components of the ecosystem, such as audio processors, video matrix switchers, and control systems. Through standards-based protocols like Dante, AVB, and AES67, these switches enable interoperability and seamless communication between different devices, creating a unified and cohesive AV environment.

Power over Ethernet and Future Innovations

Let’s also not forget about Power over Ethernet (PoE) for supplying power to the devices in our AV system.  Many AV devices, such as IP cameras, wireless access points, and digital signage displays, rely on Power over Ethernet (PoE) from switches for power and data transmission. Ensure that the network switch provides adequate PoE support, including the required power budget and compatibility with PoE standards such as IEEE 802.3af, IEEE 802.3at (PoE+), or IEEE 802.3bt (PoE++), depending on the power needs of the connected devices. (See PoE reference guide below)

Switcher PanelAs technology continues to evolve, network switches will continue to play a pivotal role in shaping the future of professional AV, enabling new possibilities and pushing the boundaries of what is possible in terms of performance, reliability, and scalability. One network switch manufacturer leading the charge in the Pro AV industry is Netgear. They provide purpose-built layer 3 switches with preconfigured network protocols like IGMP snooping, multicast routing, and fast leave mechanisms, to optimize multicast traffic delivery and conserve network bandwidth. Netgear also continues to develop switches that include certified profile setup configurations including NDI, SRT, Dante, AES, AVB and many others for audio/video/lighting/control. Adding a simplified custom AV user interface that doesn’t require an IT administrator to configure, and generous PoE power for all AV components in the system is a grand slam for Pro AV integrators.

Power over Ethernet (PoE) is categorized into different classes based on the power levels they can deliver. These classes are defined by the IEEE 802.3 standard. Here’s a breakdown of the main PoE classes and their differences:

1. IEEE 802.3af (PoE, Class 1-3):

    • Power Output: Provides up to 15.4 watts of DC power per port.
    • Application: Suitable for low-power devices such as IP phones, wireless access points, many encoders and decoders, and IP cameras.
    • Classification: Devices are classified into three power classes (Class 1-3) based on their power requirements. Class 1 devices require the least power, while Class 3 devices can consume up to 15.4 watts.

2. IEEE 802.3at (PoE+):

    • Power Output: Provides up to 30 watts of DC power per port.
    • Application: Designed for higher-power devices such as PTZ cameras, video conferencing systems, and access control systems.
    • Classification: PoE+ introduces a higher power class (Class 4) to support devices with greater power demands. Class 4 devices can consume up to 30 watts.

3. IEEE 802.3bt (PoE++):

    • Power Output: Provides up to 90 watts of DC power per port.
    • Application: Intended for high-power devices such as pan-tilt-zoom (PTZ) cameras, high-performance wireless access points, and IoT devices with integrated sensors and actuators.
    • Classification: PoE++ introduces four power classes (Class 5-8) to support a wide range of devices with varying power requirements. Class 5 devices can consume up to 45 watts, Class 6 up to 60 watts, Class 7 up to 75 watts, and Class 8 up to 90 watts.

*The primary difference between these PoE classes lies in the amount of power they can deliver to connected devices. As the class number increases, so does the maximum power output per port.

**It’s essential for users to choose the appropriate PoE class based on the power requirements of their devices to ensure optimal performance and compatibility.

***Don’t forget to calculate the system’s Total Power Budget when factoring in PoE requirements.

Curious about Programming Services? Check out this conversation between Tom Kehr and Drew Metherall.
Eric Olson headshot
About the Author

Eric Olson​​ | CTS, DSCE

Senior BDM – Technical Lead

Supported Manufacturers: Netgear, LG, Lumens and Atlona

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