AV infrastructure: what happens behind the scenes?
AV infrastructure brings together signal distribution, networking, power and physical installation technology to support the devices across a connected AV system.
Between a source and a screen, signals may need to travel longer distances, move across an IP network or reach multiple endpoints. Equipment needs to be installed securely and remain accessible, while power needs to be distributed, managed and protected.
So, what happens along the way? Let’s follow the signal and meet the Hidden Heroes behind connected AV.
The journey begins with the signal
AV signal distribution moves audio and video from a source to the displays, devices and other endpoints that need it.
That journey could stay within one room or extend across a much larger environment. Distance, the number of destinations and potential future expansion can all influence how signals should be distributed.
Atlona HDBaseT extension solutions allow AV signals to travel over category cabling across longer distances. Atlona OmniStream uses AV over IP to distribute audio and video across network infrastructure, while the Velocity Control System brings AV control, room scheduling and device management together.
For integrators, considering the signal path early means understanding where content starts, where it needs to go and how those requirements could change.
Discover Atlona technology for connected AV distribution and control.
When AV joins the network
AV over IP uses network infrastructure to distribute audio and video between connected endpoints.
Moving AV onto the network can make it easier to connect multiple sources and destinations and expand systems over time. It also makes the network itself part of the AV specification.
NETGEAR M4250 switches support professional AV over IP environments, while the M4350 range provides higher-capacity infrastructure for larger and more demanding systems. The NETGEAR Engage Controller helps simplify the configuration and management of compatible NETGEAR AV networks.
Once AV joins the network, integrators need to consider whether that infrastructure can support the required AV traffic as well as how the network will be configured and managed.
Explore NETGEAR network infrastructure for AV over IP.
Behind the display
AV installation infrastructure securely supports displays and the equipment, cabling and power components connected to them.
Once the signal reaches its destination, everything still needs somewhere to go. Media players, cabling, power equipment and other components may need to sit behind the display while remaining accessible for installation and future maintenance.
The Peerless STS680 extends away from the wall to provide access to equipment behind the display. The ACC-UCM3 provides a secure location for media players and other AV components, while the ACC-STSPDU allows SurgeX DisplayPak+ power management to be mounted neatly behind the screen.
These details may stay out of sight, but they can have a significant impact on how easily an AV system can be installed, accessed and maintained.
Discover Peerless infrastructure for connected AV installations.
Powering and protecting the system
AV power management and protection help distribute power to connected equipment while protecting systems against power-related disruption.
Displays, switches, media players, processors and other devices all introduce power requirements. Depending on the project, integrators may also need to consider protection, remote power management or backup power for critical equipment.
As Nigel Thompson, Technology Specialist – Racks & Power at Midwich, explains:
“Businesses are looking for greater protection of their technology investments, particularly as IT, networking and AV systems become increasingly central to day-to-day operations.”
The SurgeX Vertical Series+ Smart PDU provides managed power distribution across connected AV equipment. DisplayPak+ 2 Way provides compact power management and protection behind displays, while the UPS-17302-60R provides backup power support for critical AV equipment.
For customers considering an uninterruptible power supply for small business environments, the wider requirement is not only backup power but how power protection, management and recovery fit into the complete AV system. Considering power during specification helps make it part of the system design rather than something addressed at the end of the project.
Explore SurgeX power management and protection for AV systems.
Before you specify, follow the whole journey
Great AV doesn’t start with the screen. It starts with what’s behind it.
Signal distribution, networking, installation and power all need to work together from the outset. Get the infrastructure right and the technology people see has the foundation it needs to perform reliably.
That’s why the technology behind the experience matters just as much as the experience itself.
FAQs
What is connected AV infrastructure?
Connected AV infrastructure is the underlying technology used to connect, distribute, support, power and manage devices across an AV system. It can include signal distribution, AV over IP networking, control, mounting, equipment integration and power management.
What is AV over IP?
AV over IP distributes audio and video using standard IP network infrastructure. It can provide greater flexibility when content needs to be routed between multiple sources and destinations or when systems need to expand.
Why are network switches important for AV over IP?
Network switches provide the infrastructure connecting AV over IP endpoints and carrying traffic between them. The required capacity and configuration depend on the scale and demands of the AV system.
Why is power management important in AV installations?
Power management helps distribute and manage power across connected AV equipment. Power protection and backup solutions can also help protect technology and support critical equipment when power problems occur.
What should integrators consider when planning AV infrastructure?
Integrators should consider the complete signal path, including sources and destinations, distances, network requirements, endpoint numbers, equipment placement, maintenance access, power requirements and potential future expansion.
Connected infrastructure is designed to go unnoticed
When connected AV infrastructure is specified effectively, much of it stays out of sight. Signals reach their destination, AV moves across the network, equipment is securely installed and power is managed and protected behind the scenes.
Midwich brings these technologies together with specialist AV expertise, UK-held stock and Plus+ services to help resellers and integrators specify and deliver complete connected AV projects.
Discover the Hidden Heroes behind connected AV infrastructure on the Midwich Store.
