Audio Visual technology has changed rapidly over the last decade. First there was the analogue sunset, followed by the introduction of digital video and audio transmission. The advancements in EDID management, the introduction of HDCP and 4K ultra high definition. HDBaseT technology then revolutionised the Pro-AV industry, becoming the global standard for transmitting High Definition video & audio, ethernet, RS-232 & IR control, USB and up to 100W of power of a single twisted pair cable up to a distance of 100m. HDBaseT simplified installations by eliminating cable clutter with compromising on quality and performance.

2017/18 saw most large manufacturers of Pro AV electronics release their AV over IP platforms. In simple terms, AV over IP technology is about sending video, audio, control and USB signals through standard 1GB ethernet network. The process uses encoding devices to convert analogue or digital signals into data that can be streamed across a standard 1GB ethernet network. A decoding device then converts the received data back to video, audio and other signals. AV over IP systems allow for quality video distribution between rooms, building or even further just as freely as computer data.

IP networks can be any size we need, So too now our AV system. Any number of encoders and decoders can work together in an AV over IP system. Allowing one-to-one, one-to-many or many-to-many AV connectivity. With AV over IP technology, a 1GB ethernet switch now replaces the conventional AV matrix switcher. This lowers cost and eliminates the restraints of conventional matrix switchers having a fixed architecture (number of inputs and outputs). This means that AV over IP systems have the big advantage of being expandable. New sources and displays can be added with ease.

AV over IP systems only require a single CAT5e cable to be installed between each encoder to switch, and switch to decoder. Minimizing cost and complexity of dedicated cable runs for conventional AV systems. AV over IP systems also have two distinct advantages over HDBaseT systems in terms of cabling.
 

• Because AV over IP signals are in essence data packets like normal network traffic, they are not susceptible to interference on the line from power or other electro-magnetic interference (EMI).
• AV over IP systems can use normal CAT5e cable for 1GB ethernet network, instead of expensive and often specialized CAT6 cabling.

Ethernet networks are more readily extendable than circuit-switched AV or HDBaseT connections and can exceed 100m, with all of the same management tools, permissions for stream access, and security protocols as computer data.

AV over IP systems by default support 4K60, 4:4:4, and HDR visually lossless video over a standard 1GB ethernet network with no latency. The HDR standard ensures the highest possible gamut of colour and brightness for screen content.

Built in USB 2.0 and Ethernet expansion facilitate connection to peripheral USB and Ethernet-enabled devices over the same cable as video and audio. Ideal for installations that require LAN connectivity to Ethernet-enabled devices and KVM applications.

Anything that goes on the network must be secure. Clients need to know who and what is on their network. Most PRO grade AV over IP systems leverage 802.1x authentication, AES encryption, and Active Directory® to provide network security at the product level. In addition, most supports SRTP - Secure Real-Time Transport Protocol, ensuring the encryption, message authentication, and data integrity of video and data streams.

AV over IP systems can include optional hardware appliances to securely manage and control large deployments. These optional hardware appliances enable device discovery, domain configuration, endpoint mapping, multicasting management, system-wide firmware updates, and status monitoring.

To implement AV over IP, use your existing network equipment. Since AV over IP can be set up over existing LAN lines, there is no need to tear up the walls and install separate cabling. In addition, there is no need for conventional AV switching equipment to be purchased for every room. Lastly you can seamlessly deploy digital signage solutions throughout your organization, leveraging off your AV over IP platform, at a fraction of the cost.

Now that you’re aware of the numerous reasons to use AV over IP, how will you implement the technology at your business? If you are considering an AV refresh for your organization, why not get in touch with Digital Business Integration to see how AV over IP solutions can benefit you. We have access to AV over IP systems from all major manufacturers and can advise on different applications for different spaces. Get in touch with us today, and experience "the Courage to Create"