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As we consider the future of AI in AV, DVIGear brings you the first in a monthly series. of articles that look at the rapidly emerging, very real-world case for AI in AV. This first installment looks at how SDVoE and DVIGear have implemented AI Agents for speeding familiar AV workflows.

The SDVoE Alliance and its member companies are establishing SDVoE as the AV over IP platform of choice for AI-assisted design, deployment, and support workflows. As corporate IT departments rapidly adopt agent-based tools across their technology stacks, the open, standardized nature of the SDVoE platform makes it uniquely suited to integration with these emerging workflows.

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DVIGear is providing the first visible implementation of this direction with the release of DisplayNet Connect for AI Agents. The product enables AI assistants and agent frameworks to configure, control, and troubleshoot DisplayNet systems through natural language, leveraging SDVoE with the DisplayNet API. DisplayNet Connect for AI Agents is built on Model Context Protocol (MCP) for broad compatibility with leading agent platforms, while the underlying integration approach is protocol-agnostic and can be extended to other agent interfaces as the ecosystem evolves.

A Platform Built for Open Integration

Unlike closed AV over IP architectures, the SDVoE platform was designed from the outset around an open, standardized API and a multi-vendor hardware ecosystem. This architectural openness, long a foundation of SDVoE interoperability, now provides a direct path for integration with the rapidly maturing landscape of AI agents and enterprise automation tools.

“The same characteristics that made SDVoE the right answer for AV/IT convergence make it the right answer for the agent-driven workflows that enterprise IT is adopting now,” said DVIGear president Steven Barlow. “An open API is a precondition for AI assistance. SDVoE has had one for years. DisplayNet Connect for AI Agents is the first product to make that architectural advantage tangible for our customers.”

Lower Barrier to Entry

Designing, deploying, and maintaining an AV over IP system has historically required deep familiarity with platform-specific control languages and APIs. With AI-assisted workflows layered over the SDVoE API, technology teams can express intent in natural language and let the agent translate that intent into valid system configurations. This significantly broadens the population of practitioners who can productively work with the SDVoE platform.

Faster System Creation

Configurations that previously required hours or days of programming work can now be generated in minutes. Natural-language inputs can be translated directly into working SDVoE system configurations through the agent layer (e.g. create a four-source video wall feeding the conference room and the lobby, with the lobby muted by default). Multiple custom front ends, role-specific control panels, and one-off integrations become economically viable in environments where they previously were not.

Faster Troubleshooting and Support

System diagnostics represent some of the most time-consuming work in AV-over-IP support. AI agents are well-suited to this category of pattern-recognition work and can dramatically compress the time required to identify and resolve issues, particularly when paired with the rich diagnostic outputs already available in the SDVoE platform. Complex problems like multicast, IGMP behavior, and HDCP handshake issues, can be understood and resolved in a matter of minutes with agentic log analysis.

A Platform-Wide Direction

While DVIGear’s DisplayNet Connect for AI Agents is the first publicly available implementation, the SDVoE Alliance is actively encouraging member companies to develop equivalent integrations across their own product lines. The goal is not a single-vendor solution, but a platform-wide standard for AI-assisted AV-over-IP workflows, consistent with the SDVoE Alliance’s founding mission of standardization, interoperability, and ecosystem development.

There will be many trends circulating the InfoComm show floor in 2026, and standards are always front and center. Whether it is IPMX, SDVoE, NDI, or a bevy of other AV over IP standards, manufacturers have the products and solutions you need to bring installations to life.

[SCN's InfoComm Impulse Preview Series]

Take a peak at what these nine booths will be showcasing, but bookmark this page and check back, as we will update with more as we hear more to have you prepped for the show.

AIMS to Advance IPMX Education 

The Alliance for IP Media Solutions (AIMS) will focus on Internet Protocol Media Experience (IPMX) education. Through expert-led sessions and the development of its Official IPMX Training Series, the organization will provide the Pro AV industry with the knowledge required to design and deploy IPMX-based AV over IP systems.

At booth C7487, AIMS will provide live demonstrations of IPMX-certified products and tools, illustrating how IPMX enables seamless integration across AV systems while supporting both Pro AV and broadcast requirements. It will also launch the Official IPMX Training Series, a free online program designed to help the Pro AV community better understand, design, configure, and deploy IPMX-based AV-over-IP systems. Structured as a three-level curriculum covering foundations, systems design, and advanced networking concepts such as PTP and SMPTE ST 2110, the program provides a practical path for engineers and integrators building AV-over-IP infrastructures.

Additionally, Andrew Starks, AIMS board of directors’ member and director of product management for Macnica, will present the session “How IPMX Expands Live Production Beyond Broadcast” on Tuesday, June 16, from 1:30-2 p.m. local time in meeting room W232. On June 18, Samuel Recine—AIMS board of directors’ member and vice president of global strategic partnerships at Matrox Video— will co-present “IP for Corporate Broadcast AV” from 1:30-3 p.m. in room W231.

Aurora Multimedia Introduces Dante/AES67 Over Wi-Fi

Aurora Multimedia will be showcasing its new architecture designed to enable Dante and AES67 audio networking over Wi-Fi infrastructure. Aurora’s newly developed wireless architecture enables Dante/AES67 audio streams to operate across modern Wi-Fi environments, opening new possibilities for flexible system design and deployment.

The new wireless architecture is designed to integrate with existing Dante-enabled ecosystems while leveraging enterprise wireless networks commonly deployed in corporate, educational, and public environments. These include flexible collaboration spaces; higher-education learning environments; live event production and temporary installations; rapid deployment AV systems; and historic buildings where cabling infrastructure is limited.

You can find out more from Paul Harris in our SCN InfoComm 2026 Impulses.

AVPro Global Brands to Showcase Its Growing Ecosystem 

AVPro brands (AVPro Edge, AudioControl Pro, RTI, Murideo, Bullet Train, ProControl, and ThenAudio) will showcase its growing ecosystem through a series of immersive, application-driven demos designed to mirror real-world commercial environments at booth C7028.

One such solution will be the AVPro Edge MXnet USP Series, the next generation AV over IP ecosystem designed to create hybrid AV systems. USP is built on AVPro Flow technology, aimed to provide native interoperability with conferencing platforms, camera systems, recording/streaming solutions, and production equipment, creating a unified platform for modern deployments.

The newest ConferX matrix switcher from AVPro Edge delivers features designed for commercial integrators. Instantly switch between HDBaseT and HDMI sources with side-by-side display and scaling options built for commercial applications. Features include HDBaseT inputs compatible with the latest ConferX HDMI/USB wall plates, RS-232 control, HDMI stream control, 5-volt toggle for CODEC disconnection, and aspect ratio conversion for ultra-wide displays.

Cobalt Digital to Showcase End-to-End IPMX Ecosystem

Cobalt Digital will highlight its expanding IPMX ecosystem at booth N7163, engineered to bring broadcast quality to Pro AV applications. The lineup includes standalone signal processors, audio monitors, multiviewers, gateways, converters, encoders, and decoders that make SMPTE ST 2110 workflows easy to deploy, manage and scale.

Designed for systems integrators as well as end users, Cobalt’s interoperable IPMX certified product portfolio provides a straightforward migration path from SDI to IP—delivering the flexibility and scalability of ST 2110 without the complexity traditionally associated with high-end IP infrastructures.

At the center of Cobalt’s InfoComm lineup is the new COBALT blueCORE family of fully featured standalone signal processors designed to bridge SDI and ST 2110/IPMX environments with exceptional versatility. blueCORE combines the audio and video processing functions required for live production and AV signal management into a single 1RU device. blueCORE’s self-contained architecture makes deployment fast and simple: power up the unit, connect signals, and it is ready to operate with or without a computer.

Also on display will be enhancements to the COBALT PACIFIC compression platform including a new ST 2110/IPMX output option for the COBALT PACIFIC ULL-DEC upgradeable software-defined decoder. The enhancement allows decoded content to be available simultaneously over SDI and ST 2110/IPMX. The device includes a built-in frame sync that can be configured to emit a PTP-locked signal for ST 2110 operation. Cobalt also leverages the PACIFIC line to deliver a complete solution for interconnecting IPMX sites over the Internet. The PACIFIC 9992-ENC “IPMX-to-Internet” gateway appears as a destination within the NMOS controller at the sending site, enabling any patched content to be transmitted instantly to the corresponding PACIFIC ULL-DEC “Internet-to-IPMX” gateway at the receiving end.

Covid Introduces 20 Gbps USB-C Cable Built for Pro AV Installations

Covid will introduce the USBC-G2P60 at booth C8859. This high-performance USB-C 3.2 Gen 2x2 cable was engineered for Pro AV and commercial environments requiring reliable high-speed data, consistent power delivery, and extended installation lengths.

Delivering up to 20 Gbps bandwidth and 60W Power Delivery, the USBC-G2P60 is designed to support conferencing, collaboration, digital signage, and device connectivity applications where performance and reliability are critical. Available in 6, 10, 12, and 15-foot lengths, the cable features USB-C male-to-male connectivity, RoHS compliance, and a durable construction designed for everyday professional use.

Covid will also be expanding its panel-mounted Terminal Block Pigtail Connector line, and will introduce the EHW-210, a 4K 60Hz Wireless HDMI KVM Extender designed to deliver high-performance wireless AV, broad touch-screen compatibility, and one-to-many distribution in a cost-effective platform.

HDBaseT

The HDBaseT Alliance will reveal how the technology addresses today’s evolving system-level challenges, including complex USB workflows and the rapid growth of multi-camera environments driven by AI-enabled applications at booth C8759.

Celebrate 15 years of HDBaseT technology and its role in shaping modern Pro AV connectivity with the Alliance at its booth. Since its founding by LG Electronics, Samsung Electronics, Sony Pictures Entertainment and Valens Semiconductor, HDBaseT has delivered reliable, uncompressed, long-distance, plug-and-play connectivity over a single Category cable. The Alliance booth will include a Power Wall display featuring 70 new products and solutions from over 30 HDBaseT Alliance members, demonstrating the diversity of HDBaseT across verticals. 

Demonstrating the continued evolution of the HDBaseT ecosystem, HDBaseT chipset provider Valens Semiconductor will introduce the VS6310, the company’s newest low-power USB3 extension solution, compliant with the HDBaseT-USB3 standard. The VS6310 is designed for integration into a broad range of professional AV applications, including active cables and embedded products such as e/PTZ cameras, video bars, touch controllers, and other USB-enabled devices.

MSolutions to Expand MS-DP-ALT Series with HDMI-Enabled USB-C Extension Solution

MSolutions will debut the latest evolution of its innovative MS-DP-ALT Series at booth C7685. MSolutions will showcase the new MS-DPA-HCP, a single-cable USB-C extension solution that adds a switchable HDMI input for expanded source flexibility in meeting rooms, classrooms, auditoriums and collaborative spaces.

The new MS-DPA-HCP continues MSolutions’ strategy of simplifying modern AV connectivity through streamlined USB-C transport over category cable infrastructure. The series extends DisplayPort Alternate Mode (DP Alt Mode) signals over a single category cable, enabling transport of 4K video, USB data, and power through one streamlined connection.

The MS-DPA-HCP introduces automatic switching between permanent in-room HDMI sources and guest USB-C laptop connections, solving a common challenge in modern BYOD meeting environments. In a typical conference room installation, a permanently installed PC can remain connected through HDMI while guest presenters automatically switch to their laptop connection when plugging into the USB-C interface.

NDI to Host Live Demos, AI Video Workflows and Developer Session

NDI will be at booth C7572 in Central Hall with a packed agenda for developers, integrators, and AV professionals. Visitors can see live demos of NDI 6.3, featuring real-time stream insights, performance tracking, multi-location production with distributed source management, and AI-ready metadata workflows. A live Zoom integration demo will also illustrate how NDI is bringing broadcast-grade quality into enterprise collaboration environments.

On the education side, NDI technical director Roberto Musso will lead "Introduction to NDI Development" on Tuesday, June 16 from 4-5 p.m. local time at W203/W204, offering developers a hands-on on-ramp to building on NDI.

PlexusAV to Introduce "Final Piece" of AV over IP Portfolio

PlexusAV will officially unveil its new flagship P-AVN-6-S transceiver at booth C10301. The P-AVN-6-S is a high-performance uncompressed IPMX and SMPTE ST 2110 solution with native 12G-SDI I/O, designed to bridge traditional SDI infrastructure and modern IP-based workflows across a single open-standard network. It is designed to integrate seamlessly with PlexusAV devices and cross-vendor AV solutions.

Purpose-built for live events hybrid production environments and Pro AV applications demanding uncompromised signal integrity, quality and timing precision, the P-AVN-6-S enables organizations to transition seamlessly between baseband and IP workflows without vendor lock-in. This makes it ideal for mission-critical workflows where signal quality, low latency, interoperability, and timing precision are non-negotiable.

The P-AVN-6-S delivers uncompressed quality over IPMX and SMPTE ST 2110 compliant networks up to 4K60, at approximately 18 Gbps throughput. A major differentiator is the unit’s integrated PTP-to-Genlock capability, which synchronizes SDI outputs directly to IP-based timing with ±12 pixel phase accuracy. Combined with ST 2022-7 hitless redundancy across independent primary and secondary network paths, the platform is engineered for deployments where timing accuracy and uptime cannot be compromised. Support for 1GbE, 10GbE, and 25GbE networks provides a direct integration path between traditional baseband infrastructures and open-standard IP distribution.

SDVoE Alliance to Feature Member Demonstrations From IDK Corporation, Aurora Multimedia, and Kramer

The SDVoE Alliance will present member demonstrations at booth C7074 from alliance members IDK Corporation, Aurora Multimedia, and Kramer. These demonstrations will highlight SDVoE applications for conference rooms, judicial and government environments and command-and-control operations.

IDK Corporation will demonstrate its USB Neo Series, including the NJR-L21UC-T encoder and NJR-L31UC-R decoder, designed to support modern conference room workflows. The USB Neo Series transports video and USB peripherals between devices, supporting BYOD/M, auto-switching and call status awareness to maintain the correct host device during a call.

Aurora Multimedia will present a judicial and government-focused demonstration featuring the SmartSpeak desktop beam-forming microphone with a 6-inch touch controller and USB-C and HDMI ports. Aurora Multimedia’s SmartSpeak supports bidirectional SDVoE transmission, enabling simultaneous encoding and decoding over a single 10G connection.

Kramer will host a command-and-control demonstration featuring the Kramer ZyPer4K-XSE platform. Kramer’s demonstration will showcase seamless KVM roaming across three displays and a dynamic 2x2 multiview configuration. A single keyboard and mouse will move between individual screens and multiview windows. At the same time, hotkeys will enable operators to promote any source to the full-screen home display or instantly reset the system to its default layout.

Visionary to Introduce the nexAV We-Cosystem

Visionary Solutions will debut its new nexAV We-Cosystem audio, video, and control platform. Built for converged AV and IT environments, the nexAV We-Cosystem combines AV over IP routing and switching, audio DSP processing, room and enterprise control, device discovery, workflow orchestration, and user-interface development within a unified software platform. The platform is designed for applications ranging from hospitality and conferencing to enterprise-wide AV deployments, allowing integrators and end users to design around operational requirements rather than vendor-imposed limitations.

The launch reflects Visionary’s long-standing focus on simplifying AV deployment through software-driven infrastructure and AV over IP technologies. As AV platforms become increasingly over-engineered and burdened by unnecessary complexity, nexAV is focused on delivering practical customer value through adaptable system design, simplified workflows, and scalable architecture, allowing organizations to deploy the functionality they actually need without unnecessary overhead.

At the center of nexAV is Visionary’s Flex Architecture DSP framework and integrated Audio Engine. The platform uses template-based DSP workflows intended to simplify deployment while allowing systems to be customized for different applications. Native Dante and AES67 support allows the Audio Engine to integrate into modern networked audio environments ranging from individual rooms to campus-wide systems. Rather than forcing organizations into vendor-prescriptive ecosystems, the nexAV We-Cosystem is designed to support mixed technology environments while maintaining centralized management and a consistent user experience across deployments.

VuWall and G&D to Simplify AV over IP Distribution

"We expect a lot of discussion around secure AV over IP, interoperability, and how AI-ready platforms will shape future control room workflows," Anna Kozel, VP of marketing at VuWall told SCN. "As organizations manage more sources, data, and systems than ever before, the buzz will be around solutions that reduce complexity while improving operator efficiency and situational awareness."

You can read the VuWall | G&D InfoComm Impulse show preview by clicking here to find out more.

The SDVoE Alliance is expanding the capabilities of the SDVoE API to support AI-assisted workflows for AV over IP deployment, programming, monitoring, and troubleshooting. The SDVoE API already enables manufacturers, developers, and system integrators to create and manage advanced AV over IP applications, including video walls, multiview systems, and instant switching without dedicated processing hardware or complex external control layers. By combining the SDVoE API with AI agentic control architectures, including MCP Servers and Agent Skills, users can now interact with systems through natural-language prompts and automated software tools. The approach reduces dependence on specialized API expertise and simplifies the creation and operation of SDVoE systems across a range of professional AV environments.

[Day 2 AV/IT Interoperability: SDVoE Alliance]

“The SDVoE API was designed to give developers and integrators flexibility to build sophisticated AV-over-IP applications,” said Stephane Tremblay, president of the SDVoE Alliance. “AI-assisted workflows represent the next stage of that evolution by making system deployment, configuration and support more accessible and more efficient.”

The SDVoE Alliance’s AI-assisted and agentic workflows can significantly reduce the time required to create working system configurations, integrations and control interfaces. Instead of manually programming complex routing, video wall or multiview functions, or building custom integrations and user interfaces from scratch, users can generate configurations and control workflows using conversational prompts that automate much of the underlying development and programming process.

The workflow also improves troubleshooting and operational support by allowing AI tools and agents to analyze logs, interpret system behavior and identify issues more quickly than traditional manual diagnostics. Because the SDVoE API supports cloud-connected monitoring and remote management, operators can monitor system performance and manage complex tasks remotely in an IT-friendly environment.

DVIGear is among the first SDVoE adopters to demonstrate a working implementation of AI-assisted workflows through its DisplayNet platform with DisplayNet Connect for AI Agents. DisplayNet Connect is an MCP Server that allows for direct integration between DisplayNet’s SDVoE management server and AI platforms, such as Claude, OpenAI Codex, and Gemini CLI. DisplayNet Connect enables application development and automated log analysis with natural-language prompts across large-scale SDVoE deployments. By leveraging agentic AI tools with SDVoE, users can create integrated system configurations and user interfaces in minutes, reducing the difficulty previously required to work directly with AV-over-IP control APIs.

AVT Question: Please share insights into how your company’s products and solutions help ensure interoperability and connectivity not only on the day of deployment but also on Day 2 and beyond.

Thought Leader: Stephane Tremblay, President of the SDVoE Alliance

With more than 80 million AV systems deployed worldwide, the industry can no longer rely on closed ecosystems that limit flexibility and increase long-term risk. End users expect the same openness in AV that they experience in IT infrastructure, where multi-vendor compatibility and standards-based design are fundamental.

The SDVoE Alliance addresses this challenge through a common, standardized API that serves as the backbone of interoperability across all SDVoE devices. Built on a shared ASIC architecture and open control framework, the SDVoE API ensures that products from a significant number of member companies and hundreds of interoperable devices communicate seamlessly without proprietary barriers. The SDVoE Alliance's proven interoperability allows integrators to mix and match solutions confidently, protecting investments while enabling systems to scale predictably over time.

Beyond device compatibility, the SDVoE API empowers manufacturers, developers, and system integrators to reimagine traditional AV applications and create entirely new ones. The API connects directly to the cloud, enabling modern, IT-friendly remote management and monitoring. It supports advanced programming for applications such as video walls, instant switching, and multiview without the added cost, downtime, or specialized hardware typically required in proprietary systems.

Building on this platform, SDVoE has recently introduced FlexLinQ, a new reference design introduced by Semtech. FlexLinQ enables SDVoE systems to operate across Ethernet speeds from 10GbE down to 1GbE. At startup, it automatically performs link-speed training, negotiating 10Gbps, 5Gbps, 2.5Gbps, or 1Gbps based on real-world cable and infrastructure conditions. If higher speeds are not possible, the system adapts without manual configuration.

The SDVoE Alliance's API and FlexLinQ illustrate how open standards and intelligent design deliver both interoperability and practical deployment flexibility, enabling AV systems that are scalable, IT-friendly, and ready for the demands of modern infrastructure.

AVT Question: Please share insights into the company's roadmap and what 2026 holds for its AV/IT customers.

Thought Leader: Stephane Tremblay, President at SDVoE Alliance

In 2026, the SDVoE Alliance will emphasize two key messages: the introduction of FlexLinQ, a new reference design from Semtech, and continuing to advance uncompromised performance through the Power of 10. Together, these initiatives address both current infrastructure realities and long-term system expectations in professional audiovisual systems.

FlexLinQ is a new reference design that enables SDVoE systems to operate across Ethernet speeds ranging from 10GbE to 1GbE. At startup, FlexLinQ performs automatic link-speed training, enabling each connection to negotiate the maximum sustainable bandwidth supported by the network and cabling. The supported speeds include 10Gbps, 5Gbps, 2.5Gbps, and 1Gbps. If conditions, such as cable length or quality, prevent higher speeds, the system adapts automatically without user configuration.

For manufacturers, FlexLinQ enables a single, SDVoE-based product platform to support multiple network speeds, which reduces design complexity, shortens development timelines, and simplifies product portfolios. For integrators, FlexLinQ reduces dependency on network readiness. Systems can be deployed on existing infrastructure with fewer constraints, eliminating manual bandwidth planning and reducing the need for forced upgrades to 10GbE switching. When operating below 10GbE, visually lossless compression is applied only as needed and managed dynamically to ensure reliable transport while maintaining SDVoE’s low latency and image quality expectations.

In parallel, the SDVoE Alliance will continue to emphasize The Power of 10. As 10Gbps Ethernet becomes more available and cost-effective, SDVoE delivers uncompressed video, zero-latency performance, and a standardized, interoperable platform. The SDVoE Alliance's roadmap strikes a balance between adaptability and performance, enabling SDVoE systems to scale seamlessly with both current and future network environments.

SCN: How long have you been with this company, and what are your responsibilities?

Lisa Barlow Flournoy: I joined DVIGear formally in 2013. As marketing support manager, I oversee our marketing initiatives. My role includes developing brand and product marketing materials, managing digital content and coordinating our trade show presence. I also work closely with our technical and customer support teams to provide product support and ensure a smooth experience for our customers.

SCN: DVIGear celebrated its 25th anniversary back in 2024. What’s the secret to your longevity?

LBF: Founded in 1999, DVIGear was an early player in the digital video connectivity market. Over time, the AV market moved from analog to digital, and the number of “pedestrian” connectivity products grew exponentially. As the market swelled, it moved into a commodity model that emphasized high volume sales with low profit margins. One of our fundamental corporate tenets is to provide unique and innovative product solutions. Rather than investing in commodity products, DVIGear resolved to focus on engineering its own value-added products, maximizing design and development based on the needs of our customers.

SCN: What is something that most end users still don’t quite understand when it comes to AVoIP?

LBF: Many AV customers don't understand the intrinsic value that AVoIP offers. At times, there seems to be a reluctance to embrace new technology. Another aspect of AVoIP that people may not understand is the difference between the types of systems, 1GbE versus 10GbE, utilized by the SDVoE standard.

One of the largest budget considerations in an SDVoE system is the number of endpoints (Tx and Rx) required. While a 10GbE Ethernet switch is more expensive than a 1GbE switch, the added cost is negligible when looking at the overall system price. A much larger concern is the cost of the Tx and Rx endpoints, as many are required for most systems. Further, an SDVoE AVoIP system provides more capabilities and better quality with no or minimal compression.

SCN: What makes the DisplayNet platform unique in the AVoIP distribution space?

LBF: We believe that DisplayNet is unique because there is no other product in the AVoIP market that has the combination of features, flexibility, and ease of setup that we offer. Like some other products, DisplayNet is based on SDVoE technology; however, each manufacturer decides what SDVoE features will be used in their product line, and how they will be implemented. DisplayNet is known for its robust but flexible implementation of the SDVoE 10GbE platform. It boasts highly advanced software, including sophisticated, responsive, web-based documentation built into our DisplayNet Server.

Driven by the user experience, DisplayNet software development is a core strength of DVIGear’s AVoIP platform. For designers and installers, the DisplayNet Manager emphasis is on configuration ease and optimized user experience. For end users, the same qualities are focused on execution via DisplayNet Controller, which is newly released software for end users to utilize a DisplayNet system on a day-to-day basis in a production environment. It focuses on fewer options and simplified functionality.

SCN: How does DisplayNet Manager simplify system setup?

LBF: DisplayNet Manger is highly intuitive and web-based, with built-in, context-sensitive documentation. Our development team actively uses AI to optimize documentation and code. Many hundreds of hours of refinement have been geared to optimize the user experience. Layout, menus, organization, built-in documentation, and warning screens all contribute to facile use of the platform.

Who is the user? A system designer, system engineer, or installer doing setup and configuration work. Software that is not as intuitive as DisplayNet can be confusing, hence time-consuming and frustrating to employ. Documentation that is not integrated into the system likewise degrades the user experience. DisplayNet documentation is context sensitive, intelligently routing the user to applicable Help subsections.

SCN: DisplayNet is built to support SDVoE workflows. What made you commit to that standard?

LBF: The SDVoE model is very compatible with our corporate culture in that it emphasizes flexibility to design unique solutions and provide added value. The attributes that SDVoE offers are in line with what DVIGear believes in as a company: high quality, minimal compromise, and an emphasis on flexibility, versatility, and added value. We’ve been working with the SDVoE team for over 10 years and have a long-term relationship and stellar track record with the platform. Longevity is a key aspect of committing to the standard. The dedication to and hours spent with this platform underscore the importance of this refining and executing this solution for our clients.

SCN: I’ve seen DVIGear as part of esports demonstrations at trade shows. How important is the esports market for you?

LBF: While esports have not been core in the DisplayNet wheelhouse, applications such as Formula IP racing have been a fun—and fast—way to demonstrate the real-world advantages of SDVoE, which are high-quality imaging and zero latency. Latency can be a big problem on other AVoIP systems, but not with SDVoE.

SCN: Beyond esports, what are some of the more common deployments for DisplayNet?

LBF: Command centers with many sources and displays are one of the most important applications, such as monitoring utility pipelines and traffic, transportations systems, and emergency response centers. Another vital deployment is professional production studios that require high-resolution imaging and collaboration among many artists, engineers, and other users. Flawless AVoIP workflow facilitates the need to work with one another in real time. SDVoE technology enables easy sharing of digital workflow and screens in demanding creative environments. DisplayNet, with our emphasis on responsive software development, has been able to help transform the business of creative content development in ways that were not possible before.

SCN: So, is AVoIP the future of Pro AV?

LBF: AVoIP is certainly an important part of the future of Pro AV. Given the diversity of our field, its needs, and applications, there will always be more basic solutions that make sense. These may be smaller applications with more limited scope, such as the commodity products we discussed earlier. DisplayNet allows tremendous functional versality. Conversely, in commodity products that require application engineering to work with the hardware features, the hardware becomes the limiting factor.

AVoIP products are very powerful in creating systems that have many diverse capabilities. It's very scalable in that it is easy to add more sources or displays. AVoIP will continue to be a good approach because it uses Ethernet technology to handle AV applications. Because the Ethernet market is so immense and ubiquitous, using it as the backbone for AVoIP systems is a sound, future-proof way to design complex systems.

AVT Question: Please share insights on emerging trends and technologies that help engage fans, distribute audio and video in near real-time, and make a difference in sporting venues and esports arenas.

Thought Leader: Stephane Tremblay, President at the SDVoE Alliance

Higher education venues are increasingly investing in technologies that enhance athletic performance and spectator engagement. Whether in traditional arenas or esports facilities, advanced audiovisual systems are altering how competition is viewed, shared and experienced.

In esports, latency is the critical metric. A delay of even a few milliseconds can determine the outcome of a match. To meet those demands, institutions are adopting professional AV systems capable of transmitting high-resolution content with near-zero delay. Software-Defined Video over Ethernet (SDVoE) has become a leading solution, enabling uncompressed, zero-latency video distribution over 10G Ethernet networks. SDVoE’s architecture supports end-to-end latency under 100 microseconds while maintaining full image fidelity for HD and 4K60 HDR signals. For campus esports arenas, that means synchronized gameplay and audience reactions, which are key to an authentic, competitive atmosphere.

Beyond esports, the same technologies enhance broader athletic and academic applications. Universities use SDVoE-based systems to route live feeds across multiple locations, from classrooms to gymnasiums, with flexibility and scalability. SDVoE’s interoperability allows equipment from different SDVoE Alliance members to integrate seamlessly, protecting investments and supporting evolving needs across facilities.

Ultimately, immersive spectator and athlete experiences rely on flawless performance and seamless integration. Whether supporting collegiate esports tournaments or enhancing live athletic broadcasts, technologies like SDVoE enable higher education institutions to deliver professional-grade performance, reliability, and engagement, providing the precision and responsiveness that today’s competitive environments demand.

Do you have legacy AV equipment that is still earning its keep? Does your organization have a combination of hardware and software from different manufacturers, and does interoperability sometimes pose an issue? Is your AV/IT department full speed ahead with AV over IP, the cloud, and AI-enabled systems?

No matter which end of the AV or IT spectrum your systems reside, these 25 industry thought leaders share insights into the transition to IP, trends in The State of AV/IT today, and predictions for the next few years.

CATHERINE KOUTSARIS
Product Marketing Manager at Matrox Video

For many organizations, the biggest hesitation in modernizing AV systems is the belief that moving forward means ripping everything out and starting from scratch. In reality, most end users don’t need or want to replace entire systems. What’s more practical and sustainable is keeping the elements that still work well and bridging them with newer technologies. This approach reduces staff retraining and avoids waste. Teams can then evolve at their own pace.

That’s where interoperability comes in. Today’s AV/IT environments often resemble technology islands—ecosystems that work well independently but don’t always communicate with one another. End users may value their existing cameras or video walls, but when new requirements emerge, incompatibility becomes a real obstacle. AV gateway products are a great way to bridge between older systems and newer technology, allowing both to be used in the same installation.

Standards-based solutions provide the clearest path forward. Open standards like IPMX and SMPTE ST 2110 make it possible to mix equipment from multiple manufacturers and reduce the risk of vendor lock-in. In practice, this can mean running day-to-day conferencing over a corporate 1GbE network while seamlessly shifting to a 10GbE broadcast workflow for high-end production—all with the same underlying infrastructure. Organizations gain freedom from vendor lock-in and proprietary constraints.

The advice for end users is to focus on flexibility. Prioritize systems that integrate with what you already have and embrace open standards. This approach ensures that today’s investments remain relevant, while giving you the freedom to adopt new technologies and build AI-over-IP systems that can grow with you on your own terms.

RICHARD JONKER
Vice President Marketing and Business Development at NETGEAR Enterprise

The most successful organizations are shifting their mindset from, “What AV equipment do we need?” to, “How can we create experiences that drive business results?” This approach means your AV investments should solve specific business challenges rather than simply upgrade hardware.

The proof is in your meeting rooms. Setup time has dropped from seven frustrating minutes to under twenty seconds. This translates to improved productivity and employee satisfaction.

Behind the shifting mindset are four key technologies reshaping how you’ll interact with AV systems: AV over IP, cloud solutions, artificial intelligence, and extended reality (XR/AR). These represent fundamental changes, creating practical benefits for organizations willing to evolve.

AV over IP leads this transformation by using your IP network infrastructure instead of dedicated AV cabling. This means you get to benefit from all the advantages of the network world: easier scaling when adding endpoints like speakers, microphones, or displays; when you need remote troubleshooting by IT teams without the need for room visits; better integration with existing security tools; and the flexibility to reconfigure spaces as needs change.

As your AV systems become networked, artificial intelligence transforms infrastructure management through automated configuration and intelligent power optimization. However, connectivity introduces security vulnerabilities requiring proactive protection. Modern solutions now integrate AI-driven network simplification with built-in cybersecurity capabilities, creating inherently secure, intelligent systems that adapt to threats while simplifying operations.

At NETGEAR, we believe that organizations investing in these transitions today—and focusing on experiences that solve specific business challenges—are positioning themselves for significant advantages as the market evolves.

SAM SABET
Executive Vice President and Chief Technology Officer at Shure

The simple answer for any customer looking to invest in new AV technologies today, whether for upgrading or otherwise, is to consider a flexible, adaptable platform. Today’s AV world is characterized by rapid and constant changes. These changes are evident both in the environment—workspaces, collaboration modes, and the balance between RTO and remote work—and in features and technologies such as AI, feature deployment speed, and processing power.

When choosing a platform, it’s imperative to keep in mind the ease of adaptability to evolving changes. Consider the flexibility of configuration and provisioning, as well as the longevity of the platform. Shure’s ecosystem of MXA and collaboration solutions, supported by software infrastructure like ShureCloud and our advanced DSP and AI algorithms, provides a perfect platform. It can automatically adapt and grow with our end users’ needs.

EMMA EAGLE
Manager of Marketing at Hall Research

When it comes to evolving AV systems, whether you’re replacing legacy gear or updating something relatively new, the key is to plan for what’s next—not just what’s now. AV and IT are no longer separate worlds. Your AV strategy should be as scalable, secure, and manageable as the rest of your IT infrastructure.

Don’t get stuck on spec sheets. Instead, ask: Will this system grow with us? Can it integrate with cloud platforms? Is it simple enough that anyone can use it without frustration? Because at the end of the day, simplicity drives adoption, and adoption drives ROI.

The next few years will bring even more AV over IP, smarter automation through AI, tighter cybersecurity requirements, and an increased demand for sustainable solutions. Organizations that embrace these shifts will be in the best position to maximize both their technology and their people.

My advice? Evolve with intention. Choose solutions that are scalable, secure, and user-friendly. That’s how you future-proof your AV/IT investments.

MAX RITCHER
Co-Founder and Vice President of Marketing at Insta360

The AV/IT industry is at a turning point..

We’re moving from static, hardware-first setups to flexible, cloud-connected ecosystems that are easier to manage and adapt to how people really work. Three forces are driving this shift: the cloud, AI, and interoperability.

Cloud platforms now sit at the center of modern AV, making it possible for IT teams to monitor and update systems across campuses or offices from one place. This reduces complexity and takes the burden off on-site staff.

AI adds another layer, turning AV from something reactive into something proactive. We’ve seen this in the evolution of Insta360’s enterprise tools. We came from humble (yet ambitious!) origins with the Link AI webcam. This was our first entry into the industry, already sporting smart tracking. We’ve now moved onto the Connect video bar for larger rooms, and our latest release, Insta360 Wave. As an AI speakerphone, we’ve crafted something that is adaptive and resilient, designed to work together with our other products as a seamless experience.

But none of this potential can be unlocked without interoperability. Proprietary systems have long slowed progress by creating silos and forcing users into narrow ecosystems. That’s why open standards matter. By supporting initiatives like OpenAV Cloud and pushing for shared APIs, the industry can break down barriers, give organizations more choice, and ensure systems can grow together instead of being locked in.

The convergence of cloud, AI, and interoperability is shaping the future of AV. We’re beyond just releasing flashy tech for its own sake. We’re building smarter, more reliable systems that actually make work easier and more connected for everyone.

OLIVER VAN CAMP
Product Director, Meeting Experience at Barco ClickShare

Today’s meeting room technology must do more than connect devices; it needs to enable seamless, inclusive collaboration for all meeting room users. That’s why Barco ClickShare and Microsoft are re-imagining hybrid collaboration through smarter, more human-centric meeting experiences.

ClickShare provides a secure, scalable meeting room system that lets room participants conference, collaborate, and present with just one click, with no technical hassle, no cables, and no delays. Intuitive and easy to use, ClickShare ensures the meeting experience is consistent and seamless across any space—from huddle rooms to large boardrooms—and is designed around how people truly work.

In a Microsoft Teams environment, this experience becomes more intelligent and user-friendly. AI-powered features like speaker recognition, automatic camera framing, and smart content sharing create meetings that feel more natural and engaging, whether participants are in the room or remote.

AI is now doing even more to support the flow of work. Features like speaker attribution (knowing who’s speaking), facilitator agent (a virtual assistant capturing next steps and deadlines), and interpreter agent (allowing everyone to speak in their native language) benefit both in-room and remote participants. These tools help overcome proximity barriers, reduce administrative tasks, minimize miscommunication, and integrate smoothly into everyday workflows—even as they are still emerging.

ClickShare brings wireless collaboration solutions into the meeting room, empowering companies to run AI applications locally and in real time via the ClickShare Base Units. This unlocks smarter, faster interactions—from live speaker recognition and automatic camera framing to translation and real-time note-taking—enhancing every interaction to keep users productive, engaged, and focused. Together, ClickShare and Microsoft are redefining hybrid meetings: secure, smart, scalable, and made for people.

RYAN WALLENBERG
AIMS Member and Vice President of Engineering at Cobalt Digital

Whether AV systems are for rich experiences in venues or for managing signals on campuses like businesses or universities, they often involve equipment from different tech categories. For example, in many organizations it is not rare to see mixtures of two or all three of the following things: media processing equipment, signal extension and switching equipment, and IT department equipment.

There are many factors that have made it possible to accomplish any task that previously required hardwired cables to be achievable using packetized IP. The most challenging thing left to overcome while migrating from hardwired cables to IP is dealing with mixing different equipment types, equipment classes, and vendor solutions with interfaces such as HDMI.

The two most important things that have happened to address this final challenge is the emergence of open standards and specifications—such as SMPTE ST 2110, AES67, NMOS, and IPMX—and the emergence of IP-to-IP gateway converters of many types to help deal with conversions of media profiles within the media options of the standards and between different media and protocols including proprietary options.

End users looking to evolve legacy or even newer AV systems should consider IPMX-compliant solutions that offer smooth plug-and-play integration. An optimized hybrid infrastructure will leverage interoperability for high-quality audio, video, and data for SMPTE ST 2110 transport across common networks. Organizations should be able to add capabilities at their own pace while avoiding vendor lock-in and giving them the flexibility to build infrastructures that grow with them. Several vendors have always offered modular and standards-based technologies that adapt to real-world challenges, and they are now embracing IPMX integration.

SKYLER BOWDEN
Senior Marketing Manager at Mersive

In today’s hype-heavy tech climate, AI gets most of the headlines. Promises of 10x productivity and AI-driven transformation abound—but for AV/IT professionals managing real systems, real spaces, and real users, it’s essential to cut through the noise.

The truth? AI will shape the future of collaboration—but it won’t fix broken workflows or magically modernize outdated AV infrastructure. Productivity gains only happen when technology is aligned with how people actually work, connect, and communicate. This is especially true in education, healthcare, and enterprise environments, where every decision has to balance performance, cost, security, and usability.

What’s often overlooked in the rush to optimize is a critical factor: the human experience. Meaningful technology doesn’t just improve business outcomes; it impacts how people feel about their work. When meetings are more efficient and tools actually support connection instead of complicating it, your teams regain focus, time, and energy. That’s where real value emerges: better engagement, clearer communication, and a healthier work-life balance.

The most exciting AI potential isn’t about replacing people; it’s about revealing insights. Meeting analytics can surface engagement trends, highlight contributor impact, and track follow-ups so no one flies blind. Instead of attributing all tasks to the in-room device, imagine a system that accurately reflects every participant’s input and commitments—remote or on-site.

So what’s the takeaway? Don’t get distracted by magic wands. Invest in technology that is secure, scalable, and user-friendly—solutions that create space for the innovation your teams are primed to deliver. Then, let AI help you fine-tune how your teams meet, share, and succeed—without forcing in one-size-fits-all tech that misses the mark on deeper challenges like process gaps. AI will naturally optimize efficiency, but not overnight and not without an intimate understanding of how your teams do their best work.

BLAKE ABIG
Director of National Sales at Full Compass Systems

In my role, I spend much of my time listening to colleges, universities, and corporations as they rethink how their AV systems support teaching and collaboration. One of the most common concerns I hear is that rooms feel inconsistent. A professor might walk into one classroom and everything works smoothly, then step into another and struggle to get the system started. The same frustration shows up in corporate offices. Consistency is one of the simplest ways to improve user confidence and adoption.

Another challenge customers raise is the pressure on lean support teams. Higher ed IT groups may be responsible for hundreds of classrooms, while corporate AV staff cover global meeting spaces. I often hear, “We can’t be everywhere at once.” This is where centralized, cloud-based monitoring really makes a difference. When teams can see issues in real time and push updates remotely, they spend less time firefighting and more time enabling productivity.

Clients are also curious about how artificial intelligence fits in. What I tell them is that AI works best when it disappears into the background. Cameras that automatically follow a presenter, microphones that remove noise, and live captions that improve accessibility all make the experience smoother without adding complexity.

Finally, one theme that comes up again and again is equity for remote participants. Whether it is a student joining from home or a colleague dialing in from another office, people expect to be seen and heard clearly. That is no longer optional; it is the baseline.

The most successful AV strategies I see are the ones that put people first. When systems are reliable, intuitive, and supportive of everyone in the room and beyond, the technology simply enables better outcomes.

MITCH RAUCH
U.S. Sales Director at Powersoft

As AV systems grow more complex and distributed, spanning corporate campuses, higher education institutions, and dynamic multi-use facilities, the role of the integrator is evolving just as quickly. Success in today’s audiovisual environments requires more than just great sound and video; it also depends on smooth, seamless integration with the broader IT infrastructure.

Legacy rack rooms and point-to-point signal paths are giving way to decentralized, IP-based infrastructures. AV-over-IP is no longer a trend—but the very foundation. In this environment, amplifiers are active, networked components capable of intelligent signal routing, system synchronization, and real-time control. As a result, integrators are becoming more involved in network design, such as IP addressing, VLANs, QoS, and switch configuration, which are as essential as gain structure and speaker coverage.

Cloud integration is accelerating the evolution of network-based devices. Remote monitoring and system management capabilities are quickly becoming indispensable. Whether diagnosing issues, pushing firmware updates, or fine-tuning performance from a distance, cloud connectivity empowers integrators to deliver faster, more efficient support, often before the client even notices a problem. The shift to cloud integration can save time, reduce site visits, and pave the way for recurring service models.

Through these advancements, our mission at Powersoft remains to deliver transparent, intelligible audio without distraction. We’ve embraced this evolution with platforms like Unica and Nota 142. Both Unica and Nota 142 are purpose built for decentralized, IT-friendly environments, and combine robust performance with smart design and native cloud connectivity. Unica and Nota 142 highlight our commitment to helping integrators meet today’s challenges while preparing for tomorrow’s demands by bridging the worlds of AV and IT with powerful, future-ready solutions.

JAKUB KOLACZ
Manager Product and Commercialization, Business Communication at Sennheiser

As AV systems become increasingly networked, end users are grappling with how to evolve their environments without creating disruption. Legacy software, fragmented device tools, and rising IT security expectations often slow progress—yet the demand for simpler, more scalable management is only growing.

Now is the time for end users to prepare for this new era of AV/IT convergence. The priority is ease of deployment and configuration. Complex setup processes not only consume valuable IT/AV resources but also increase the risk of errors. Solutions that enable devices to be onboarded quickly, with minimal dependencies, free teams to focus on higher-value tasks.

Next, interoperability and centralization are key. While many organizations still rely on a patchwork of vendor-specific tools, the future lies in platforms that embrace open standards and integration. By consolidating device management into a single, standardized platform, teams gain a clearer view of their systems and reduce friction across locations and departments.

Security remains non-negotiable. With AV fully part of the enterprise IT landscape, encryption, authentication, and role-based access are essential to protect both data and devices.

Finally, consider ongoing performance. Management shouldn’t stop at installation. Proactive monitoring, real-time alerts, and predictive maintenance help teams spot issues before they escalate, keeping collaboration spaces available and reliable.

IT and AV pros should consider feature-rich, cloud-based device management platforms offering them all of the above services and more, with room to scale as systems become even more complex in the future. Providing a centralized hub for devices ensures not only improved on-site or remote management, but also the ability to react quickly to any issues at the time they occur.

Looking ahead, the convergence of AV and IT will continue to accelerate. End users who prioritize simplicity, interoperability, and proactive management today will be best placed to evolve their systems tomorrow, without sacrificing security or reliability.

ART WEEKS
Project Manager at ZeeVee by Kramer

We’re at an inflection point where both integrators and end users are rethinking AV system design. The old rack-full-of-boxes model is giving way to multi-function components that combine switching, DSP, and control. The motivation isn’t just fewer devices; it’s lower total cost of ownership over the life of a system.

By consolidating functions, projects install faster, take up less rack space, draw less power, and reduce the number of potential failure points. That translates to fewer service calls, easier remote management, and reduced labor costs across the system lifecycle. Realistically, integrators can save thousands per room, per year, while giving clients a cleaner, more reliable experience. It also helps projects get approved faster because decision makers can see long-term savings rather than just the upfront price tag.

At the same time, high-performance environments—like large lecture halls or mission-critical control rooms—are pushing adoption of AVoIP. End users want ultra-low latency and the flexibility to scale on standard networks. Today, that often means choosing between 1Gb and 10Gb deployments, but we’re seeing more forward-thinking firms pre-install CAT-6a cabling even when starting at 1Gb. That future-proofs the space, making it easier and cheaper to upgrade when higher bandwidth is needed.

In short, the state of AV/IT today is about simplification without compromise, and the next few years will be defined by scalable networked video paired with systems designed to reduce complexity, cost, and risk.

JOHN KRUSE
Senior Field Solutions Architect at ViewSonic

The convergence of AV and IT is reshaping how organizations design and manage their technology ecosystems. For end users modernizing legacy systems—or even optimizing newer ones—the goal is no longer just to add AV, but to create connected, intelligent environments that align with enterprise IT strategies.

There are a number of important considerations that go into achieving this. First, interoperability is foundational. Proprietary silos, especially technology-based ones, are becoming less viable, so end users should prioritize solutions certified across major platforms—Teams, Zoom, Google Meet—and integrate these with control systems to ensure long-term flexibility.

The second consideration is keeping the cloud as your control layer. Cloud-enabled management is shifting from optional to essential. Remote monitoring, analytics, and centralized updates improve uptime, lower service costs, and scale across campuses and enterprises.

Third, consider that AI is moving mainstream. AI features are already raising user expectations—from camera framing and noise suppression to predictive diagnostics. The differentiator in the coming years will be how seamlessly these features enhance collaboration and reduce friction.

Fourth, remember that budgets are tight, so sustainability and ROI are under more scrutiny than ever. End users should look for solutions that extend product lifecycles through firmware updates, modular upgrades, and energy efficiency instead of requiring rip-and-replace strategies.

And finally, as AV lives fully on the network, alignment with corporate IT security standards is critical. Device-level protections and encrypted data handling must be built in—not bolted on.

The state of AV/IT today is one of acceleration—driven by interoperability, cloud-first management, and AI intelligence. End users who embrace openness, scalability, and sustainability will not only protect their investments but also position their organizations for smarter, more adaptable experiences in the years ahead.

PAUL HARRIS
CEO at Aurora Multimedia

For end-users looking to evolve their AV systems, I recommend attending industry trade shows like InfoComm, ISE, and NAB, among others, which provide a neutral platform to explore new technologies. Ignore the marketing, and what size booth, and who throws the best parties. Do not be a “zombie” tradeshow walker either. That is where you walk aimlessly and get sucked in by the pretty shows people put on, but miss what is right in front of you that can make a difference. Dealer and distributor local shows can work well, just understand the limitations and combine them with other research, as many of these shows will only show you what they sell and are aligned with, leaving out many other brands and new technologies.

If you really want to do what is right for your company, due diligence is everything. Talk directly with a variety of manufacturers and test the products yourself to see if they meet your requirements. Nothing is better than a good old-fashioned shootout between brands, especially if the end user is in control of it to make sure everything is on a proper playing field. All manufacturers are guilty of making their products sound as good as possible. That is simply marketing at its best or worst, for that matter.

Ask questions like what makes your technology better than the competition, what is your warranty, where is it made, what is the life span of the product, do you make the product (yeah, many companies just slap their name on OEM and pretend it is theirs, support, education, TAA compliant, and roadmap. Don’t fall into the AI trap where companies make it sound exciting from a buzzword. See that it really does what they say, regardless of the tag line. At the end of the day, you are solving a problem, and it does not matter what fancy wrapper it comes in; does it simply do what is advertised, and does it do it well?

ADAM SOWERS
Senior Manager, Business Development at Sony Electronics

As organizations evolve their AV systems, the integration of interoperability, cloud solutions, and AI is paramount. AV systems aren’t just about hardware anymore; now, it’s all about being open, smart, and working together seamlessly. Even the newest legacy systems must catch up with the demands of hybrid work, smarter buildings, and AI-powered experiences. How would this actually get done? By embracing interoperability.

For anyone choosing platforms, I’d recommend looking for those that support open architectures and APIs. This is because open systems make it much easier for all your devices and services to communicate with each other. Think of it this way: By choosing solutions that can grow and adapt, you’re making sure your tech keeps up with the times as best as possible and is set up to evolve as quickly as possible. If you haven’t yet, check out initiatives like OpenAV Cloud, of which Sony Electronics is a member, to help you stay ahead.

Additionally, we’re all aware of the impact AI is starting to have. For example, virtual assistants and service bots are not just for demos anymore. Tools like predictive maintenance and smart troubleshooting mean less downtime and happier users. Virtual attendants can automate routines, personalize rooms, and manage schedules with minimal fuss.

Over the next few years, the efforts to unite disparate systems to create holistic solutions will finally come together. To prepare for that, think about going for modular, cloud-native solutions that are ready for AI and can grow with your evolution path. And partner with brands—like Sony—that believe in interoperability and open standards.

NICOLE CORBIN
Vice President of Product at Utelogy Corporation

As AV and IT continue to converge, the future belongs to organizations that embrace interoperability, automation, and intelligent systems. From cloud control platforms to AI-driven workflows, the industry is moving into an era where your technology estate shouldn’t just be about how it’s managed, but about how it’s orchestrated (ideally remotely and automatically).

Legacy and even modern AV systems weren’t designed to support the kind of dynamic, scalable, and data-driven operations today’s enterprises demand, but that’s changing fast.

At Utelogy, we’re seeing end users evolve by connecting AI agents across their IT/AV environments to support services that manage device health, power scheduling, room utilization, and even energy-saving measures. But these agents need a toolkit to work—a platform that provides control, telemetry, configuration, and automation in real-time. That’s where the Utelogy Platform comes in, delivering innovations like Agentic AI on our MCP Server to solve these challenges.

Agentic AI brings a conversational interface to the heart of AV/UC operations. Issue a command like, “Restart all devices in Building B with recent alert history,” and the system not only executes it, but recommends how to turn that action into a self-healing event going forward. This is AI for productivity, not just novelty.

Our advice? Don’t be afraid to integrate. Whether you’re managing a few rooms or thousands of devices across campuses and continents, the right tools let you reduce manual effort, increase uptime, and make smarter decisions using the data you already have.

In the coming years, the winners won’t just be those who adopt the newest tech, but those who build agile, interoperable systems that allow humans and machines to work together. The future of AV/IT isn’t siloed; it’s smart, connected, and cloud-enabled.

JATAN SHAH
President at QSC

My advice to end users looking to evolve their AV systems is to focus on flexibility, scalability, and intelligence. Technology is moving quickly, and the most future-ready solutions are those that adapt as your needs change while simplifying day-to-day experiences.

One of the biggest shifts in the industry is the move toward full integration of AV, IT, and building systems. AV is no longer a standalone function; it’s becoming deeply embedded in the workplace and experiential design. This means organizations should seek out open platforms that can seamlessly integrate into broader ecosystems rather than locking into closed or siloed technologies.

Another important trend is the rise of AI and data-driven automation. Instead of just enabling meetings or presentations, AI is becoming the eyes and ears of the room, driving context-aware actions like presenter tracking, speaker detection, and intelligent room adjustments. This shift makes technology more intuitive, reduces friction for end users, and helps deliver consistent, high-quality experiences.

Scalability also plays a critical role. End users should think not only about solving today’s challenges, but also about whether their AV approach can expand across multiple spaces or campuses while continuing to deliver measurable outcomes. Collecting and analyzing data from connected systems will become essential for optimizing utilization, proving ROI, and informing future planning.

Ultimately, the future of AV/IT is about creating smarter, more connected environments that support collaboration and innovation. By prioritizing open, data-driven platforms, organizations can ensure they’re not just keeping up with change but actively shaping spaces that are efficient, adaptive, and human-centered.

KATHRYN TAUB
Senior Product Marketing Manager at Audinate

Over the past decade, AV over IP has become central to professional systems, with nearly every major manufacturer offering networked products. And yet, interoperability across brands remains uneven, and customers expect systems that are easy to deploy, adaptable, and capable of integrating devices from different vendors.

The main challenge is that many products are built on unique implementations that work within a single brand but don’t extend beyond it. Such closed systems may be reliable, but hinder specialized features, gradual upgrades, or integration with existing investments. Open standards offer a pathway toward compatibility, but progress is slow and adoption is uneven, usually limited to basic transport of media across the network. Licensable platform solutions have become a widely adopted alternative. Backed by dedicated engineering teams, they extend beyond basic transport to provide APIs, stronger security, monitoring, and cloud-based tools that work consistently across multiple manufacturers.

Interoperability is what ensures AV-over-IP systems meet expectations in practice. Reliable audio and video depend on devices working together without added latency or quality loss, regardless of brand. As networks grow from single rooms to campuses, interoperability allows them to scale without fragmentation or costly redesigns. Shared APIs and common control frameworks make management practical by giving integrators the visibility they need to simplify support. Security underscores the same point: A system is only as strong as its weakest device, and without network-wide encryption or access control, interoperability is incomplete. Systems must balance performance and flexibility so they can meet the distinct demands of any environment.

The future of AV over IP depends on interoperability. With common protocols, consistent testing, and manufacturer-agnostic design, the industry can build networks that scale and adapt with ease. Interoperability safeguards current investments while opening the door to the innovation and growth that will define the next generation of AV systems.

BRAD HINTZE
Executive Vice President of Global Marketing at Crestron

Ultimately, convergence is all about scale. While organizations grow and their services expand, every system has to evolve to support new demands. This doesn’t mean simply upgrading individual components; instead, it requires a strategic approach and selecting platforms that are built on scalable standards that can grow with an organization over time. This scalability isn’t enough on its own, though. The platforms must also offer flexibility to accommodate a diverse range of spaces and room configurations to address smaller huddle rooms and multifunctional boardrooms alike. When choosing solutions that balance both of these components, organizations can future-proof their environments while maintaining consistency and performance.

Just as important is the user experience, as the expectations of end users are rising rapidly.

Today’s employees walk into a room with a clear vision for how they want the space to operate. Basic connectivity and audiovisual capabilities are no longer sufficient. Organizations must enable people to use the room with an easy-to-use system that offers AI features such as transcription and notetaking—just like they have come to expect from their individual workspaces.

Success lies in selecting technologies that scale with your organization while enhancing the experience of every individual who interacts
with them.

KEITH YANKE
Vice President of Product & Solutions Marketing at Sharp Imaging
& Information Company of America

The AV/IT landscape is rapidly evolving, shaped by AI, cloud interoperability, and new display technology. For end-users upgrading legacy or newer AV systems, it’s important to consider scalability, security, and sustainability.

AI is transforming display intelligence. From content triggering based on audience behavior to predictive diagnostics and remote monitoring, AI makes systems smarter, more responsive, and easier to manage. Paired with cloud-based management, AV networks can be centrally controlled, ensuring updates are applied, standards upheld, and devices remain secure throughout their lifecycle.

As systems grow more interconnected, interoperability introduces both opportunity and risk—making security foundational. AV systems must be designed with lifecycle security in mind, including firmware and software support beyond deployment. With that, manufacturers will be expected to maintain robust protocols throughout a product’s life.

As display technologies evolve alongside AI and cloud, LED displays continue to gain momentum with chip-on-board (COB) and smaller pixel pitch options becoming more affordable. When paired with cloud-driven control, LED provides scalable, high-performance displays that integrate seamlessly into AV/IT ecosystems.

Immersive experiences—from simulation to projection mapping—are expanding as AI simplifies both content creation and the mapping process. Tasks that once required niche expertise now have easier learning curves, making immersive environments more accessible to broader markets and applications. Combined with cloud-based platforms, interoperable AV systems can deliver these experiences in ways that are seamless, adaptable, and scalable.

Sustainability has also become a decisive purchasing driver. Beyond efficient hardware, cloud interoperability supports smarter lifecycle management—optimizing usage, reducing waste, and extending product longevity. Combined with durable displays, this proves that performance and sustainability can align.

Looking ahead, AV/IT systems will be defined by their ability to adapt, connect, and contribute to intelligent, secure, and sustainable workplaces across industries.

EFFI GOLDSTEIN
President of the HDBaseT Alliance

Whether upgrading legacy installations or enhancing newer deployments, end users would be best served by adopting a strategy centered around proven, reliable standards.

Modern AV systems are expensive, and organizations need to be sure that today’s investment will support tomorrow’s requirements. Building on established protocols like HDBaseT helps teams avoid getting locked into a single vendor’s ecosystem, resulting in greater and faster access to equipment than when relying on one source. This flexibility is especially important when it comes to maintenance, replacement, and time-sensitive system expansion.

Another key factor that must be taken into consideration is maintaining full functionality of the interfaces being used. For example, USB-C has become ubiquitous in modern devices, but not all connectivity solutions support the same bandwidth, creating hidden bottlenecks. For example, when connecting a USB 3.0 camera, you don’t want it to be downgraded to USB 2.0 because a system’s connectivity infrastructure can’t handle the higher data rates. Quality standards ensure your investment performs at the level it was intended to.

An additional advantage of standards-based systems is their ability to support upgrades in stages rather than being forced into complete overhauls. HDBaseT’s backward compatibility means you can reuse existing components and upgrade others as needs evolve incrementally—all while staying within budget. This offers dual benefits: It’s more economically friendly for the organization, and it supports sustainability initiatives by extending equipment lifecycles.

PETRO SHIMONISHI
Director of New Business Development at Panasonic Projector and Display Americas

AV/IT convergence not only poses an opportunity to streamline workflows, but it also exposes the need for flexible, interoperable, and easy-to-use solutions. Delivering end-to-end workflow solutions is essential to empowering AV professionals to focus on what matters: creating shared experiences. Effective, efficient workflows allow users to deliver stronger results with fewer resources to maximize the value of AV systems.

We’ll continue to see more integrations between hardware and software providers to streamline workflows and give customers the ability to design, create, and manage applications with more ease than ever before. For instance, at Panasonic Projector and Display Americas, we recently partnered with XTEN-AV to develop an integration that allows AV professionals to specify the correct lens for their Panasonic projector. Corporate AV/IT teams can confidently create system designs, reducing guesswork and speeding installation of interchangeable lens projectors.

Another market trend we anticipate will continue is the evolution of simplicity in installations. Universities upgrading lecture halls or other spaces often require additional hardware to manage streaming, content sharing, and network integration. This can increase system complexity, which becomes challenging for tight spaces. Panasonic’s displays and projectors feature SDM card slots and our partnership with Matrox Video gives AV professionals the freedom to choose the AVoIP standard that best meets their needs, with a clean system design that’s flexible for the future.

The migration of AV system workflows to the cloud is accelerating. This transition will help power seamless, engaging content as siloed, proprietary systems inhibit integration and innovation. As a founding member of OpenAV Cloud, Panasonic aims to accelerate this transition by supporting OpenAPI standards and working with the association to create a cloud-to-cloud communication standard that drives easy, cross-platform collaboration.

JOE ANDRULIS
Executive Vice President of Corporate Development at Biamp

AI continues to transform the audiovisual landscape, integrating into both legacy and contemporary AV systems. For end users, this ongoing evolution represents an unprecedented opportunity to enhance meeting experiences while also simplifying system management and support.

Beyond traditional configuration and provisioning, AI is fundamentally reshaping how end users experience corporate meetings of all types, whether participants are in person, remote, or in a hybrid setting. The most remarkable aspect of this transformation is its invisibility. Participants benefit from sophisticated, AI-driven enhancements without ever sensing the technology working behind the scenes. This seamless integration is crucial for creating truly effective meeting environments that prioritize simplicity, speed, and unwavering reliability.

Modern conferencing solutions exemplify this invisible intelligence. All-in-one conferencing bars, for example, demonstrate how AI can elevate user experiences through intelligent features such as beamtracking technology, which actively monitors and intelligently mixes conversations to ensure remote participants feel fully engaged. Coupled with AI-powered noise reduction algorithms, these systems deliver crystal-clear voice reproduction that eliminates distractions and maintains professional communication standards.

Visual intelligence further enhances the experience through electronic pan-tilt-zoom cameras paired with auto-framing technology, ensuring all participants remain perfectly positioned regardless of their location or movement. This technology keeps everyone front and center, creating an inclusive environment where physical location becomes irrelevant to participation quality.

The impact of AI also extends into operational excellence, benefiting end users in other ways they may not realize. For technical support teams, AI provides unprecedented insights into system performance, enabling rapid problem identification and resolution. This enables support teams to implement predictive capabilities to address potential issues before they impact end users, transforming reactive support into proactive system optimization. This paradigm shift ensures that mundane technical issues are resolved automatically, while more complex challenges are anticipated and prevented, creating a seamless, uninterrupted meeting experience for all participants.

OMER BROOKSTEIN, Chief Executive Officer and Co-Founder at Xyte

For enterprise end users looking to evolve their AV systems, the most important step is ensuring a foundation that’s open and adaptable. Proprietary silos slow innovation and increase costs, while open APIs provide the flexibility to integrate best-in-class solutions and scale as needs change. That’s why OpenAV Cloud—an industry initiative focused on standardizing open, cloud-based APIs and fostering cross-platform collaboration—is so critical.

The value of choosing an OpenAV solution is clear: It delivers vendor-neutral flexibility, easier integrations and scalability, and faster support and troubleshooting—all while future-proofing AV/IT investments with the backing of industry leaders. With this foundation in place, enterprises can not only streamline today’s operations but also prepare for the intelligent automation that’s rapidly reshaping the industry.

The real opportunity today, however, lies in how AI will transform the way AV systems are supported, maintained, and experienced. AI-powered teammates are emerging as a force multiplier for IT and AV teams.

Autonomous issue resolution means that if a microphone drops mid-call, AI detects it and reboots or reroutes before users notice. With proactive scheduling and monitoring, AI forecasts failures from usage patterns and environmental data, then books service windows automatically. Context-aware support in hybrid meetings allows AI to adjust audio, cameras, and layouts to match participants and context. And finally, with self-service for end users, employees can resolve minor issues with AI-guided instructions, reducing IT workload.

AI in enterprise AV isn’t about replacing humans; it’s about augmenting teams with intelligent assistants that deliver resilience, efficiency, and better user experiences. Future-ready AV means building for both interoperability and intelligence—without one, the other cannot succeed. And with AI teammates stepping in to resolve issues, anticipate needs, and empower users, organizations that embrace this shift now will set the pace for the entire industry.

STEPHANE TREMBLAY
President of the SDVoE Alliance

Today, we’re recognizing that many integrators, IT managers, and end users are seeking solutions that deliver high-quality performance without requiring a complete rip and replace of existing infrastructure. As a result, AV over IP has emerged as a viable solution. By shifting AV distribution onto standard Ethernet networks, it enables organizations to harness the power of their current infrastructure while unlocking new levels of flexibility, scalability, and reliability. Unlike traditional systems that often depend on proprietary hardware and cabling, AV over IP integrates seamlessly into IT environments.

A key advantage of AV over IP, and particularly Software-Defined Video over Ethernet (SDVoE), is its ability to deliver high-performance video and audio with the reliability and interoperability that IT teams expect. With SDVoE technology, audiovisual functions become software-defined, meaning updates, enhancements, and even new features can be deployed through firmware rather than hardware replacement. A software-based approach offers significant future proofing, delaying obsolescence and protecting investments. In an era where supply chain disruptions and budget pressures remain real challenges, that flexibility matters.

Higher education, corporate facilities, houses of worship, and other verticals need standardized, interoperable solutions that scale to large spaces without compromising user experience. In higher education, for instance, AV over IP enables classrooms, lecture halls, and collaborative spaces to run on a consistent backbone, easing IT management and improving reliability.

Looking ahead, AV and IT continue to converge more closely. AV is no longer siloed, but treated as another service on the network, and is subject to the same demands for uptime, security, and scalability. Ethernet’s continued evolution, coupled with AV over IP’s flexibility, suggests that over the next few years, organizations will increasingly standardize on 10G Ethernet backbones. As a result, AV systems will become more reliable, interoperable, and adaptable to future needs, ensuring end users can keep pace with changing expectations without constant reinvestment.

The SDVoE Alliance has recently expanded its SDVoE Academy with two new education tracks: the SDVoE Video Basics Certification and the SDVoE Networking Basics Certification. Participants who complete the SDVoE Video Basics Certification or the SDVoE Networking Basics Certification are eligible to receive CTS RUs, adding even more value to their professional development.

[Subscribe to the SDVoE Alliance Newsletter from Future]

“Our goal with the SDVoE Academy has always been to empower audiovisual professionals with the knowledge and skills they need to succeed,” said Stephane Tremblay, president of the SDVoE Alliance. “These new certification tracks make critical video and networking concepts accessible to everyone, bridging the gap between AV and IT and ensuring our community is prepared for the challenges of converged environments.”

The Video Basics Certification offers participants a comprehensive introduction to the fundamentals of video technology. The course guides participants through the intricacies of video distribution over Ethernet, helping them gain proficiency in key terms and concepts while understanding their significance in real-world applications. The Video Basics Certification is ideal for industry professionals seeking to enhance their understanding of video fundamentals and apply this knowledge to the design and deployment of modern audiovisual systems. By completing the Video Basics Certification, learners will be equipped with a strong foundation that supports future growth in advanced video applications.

The Networking Basics Certification empowers participants to confidently step into the world of IT networking, with a focus on AV-over-IP systems. The course covers the fundamentals of Ethernet, switching, IP addressing, and other core networking concepts essential for designing and supporting high-performance AV networks. Course participants will explore the OSI model, IP transport, and transport protocols such as TCP and UDP, while also learning about bandwidth management, security considerations, and interoperability principles. Whether newcomers to networking or experienced professionals seeking to strengthen their foundation, participants will gain the critical skills required to build reliable, scalable, and future-ready AV networks.

Together, the SDVoE Alliance’s new certification tracks build on the SDVoE Academy’s mission to establish a trusted educational resource for AV professionals, including designers, integrators, manufacturers, and end users. With more than 6,000 students enrolled and over 120 courses delivered, the Academy already offers two professional certification programs, the SDVoE Certified Design Partner and the SDVoE Certified Developer. The SDVoE Academy is a free, self-paced online learning platform dedicated to advancing education in AV signal management technology.

InfoComm 2025 is in the books, but the DVIGear DisplayNet DN-300T SDVoE Transceiver left a lasting impression. The solution won SVC Best of Show honors; however, it wasn't just the device that wowed the judges, it was the showcase as well.

[Pro AV Technology Is Powering the New NASCAR Remote Race Control Room]

At the show, DVIGear showed off the DisplayNet DN-300T SDVoE Transceiver at the SDVoE Alliance booth in a Formula IP racing simulator. It was designed to highlight the new(er) SDVoE Alliance Power of 10+ initiative , and highlight it did.

The Formula IP Racing Rig provided zero-frame latency, flawless 4K/60p image quality, and high-speed USB extension in a race against the clock, driving one of the fastest production cars ever built. It was powered by the DisplayNet DN-300T, a fully bi-directional Transceiver that offers simultaneous TX/RX operation, and the DN-300H, which offers that has switchable Transmitter/Receiver operation with powerful KVM features. Both models possess an ultra-compact, low-profile form and provide 4K/60 (4:4:4) video distribution with limitless scalability, zero-frame latency and zero image artifacts.

InfoComm 2025 is right around the corner. In the days leading up to Pro AV's biggest U.S. event, well showcase some new products and can't-miss presentations at booths on the show floor.

[New Products and InfoComm Insights]

Today, take a look at what Telycam, SDVoE Alliance, SoundTube, Nanolumens, and Haivision are bringing to Orlando.

Haivision to Debut the Kraken X1 Rugged

Haivision will bring its new Kraken X1 Rugged to booth 675. Designed for maximum operational impact at the tactical edge, Kraken X1 Rugged processes full-motion video (FMV), delivering low-latency encoding, transcoding, and AI-enhanced video and metadata to support tough mission demands in the extreme environments.

Precision-engineered to meet any video processing challenge in forward-deployed ISR missions, the Kraken X1 Rugged packs AI capabilities and low-latency video performance into a compact, and fanless appliance. Engineered to meet MIL-STD ruggedization requirements in a small form factor device, Kraken X1 Rugged provides enhanced video processing for ISR missions in the most demanding environments, including UAVs, manned aircraft, vehicles, towers, ships, and more.

Kraken X1 Rugged derives its high-density power from the NVIDIA Jetson Orin platform with next-gen GPU acceleration. Along with the ability to encode/transcode up to four 1080p HD streams, Kraken X1 Rugged can enhance situational awareness with real-time AI processing at the edge, capable of running third-party AI models directly on sensor-equipped platforms that are deployed in the field, instead of transporting the sensor feeds for processing to cloud data centers far from the action. By processing at the tactical edge, Kraken X1 Rugged can provide higher-quality intelligence delivered more reliably, more quickly, and more securely.

Nanolumens to Showcase Newly Launched Aurora

Nanolumens will debut Aurora, a new high-performance video processing platform at booth 3081. Aurora represents Nanolumens’ expansion into video processing, emphasizing the company's vision for delivering seamless, end-to-end display ecosystems.

Aurora has been purposefully engineered to work exclusively with Nanolumens displays, unlike traditional LED processors built for compatibility across a wide range of vendors. The joint approach eliminates the guesswork and compatibility pitfalls with configuration and the calibration of files, which integrators often face and allows Nanolumens to maintain complete control over the entire display system, from pixels to processing.

Aurora delivers high-quality visual accuracy with 23-bit output and 12-bit input for true-to-life color representation. Aurora’s auto-calibration feature simplifies screen setup and tile replacement, while intelligent scaling ensures content remains crisp and legible without warping or distortion. The platform is bandwidth-efficient, achieving high-quality visuals while using roughly half the data lines compared to conventional processors. Aurora features superior dimming capabilities, allowing it to maintain consistent image quality at low and high brightness levels, which is essential for environments that demand low luminance reproduction. Users also benefit from a web-based Video Wall Manager for intuitive content control and built-in diagnostics that automatically detect and suggest solutions.

SDVoE Alliance Brings Zero Latency and No Compression for High-Performance Applications

The SDVoE Alliance will present a series of interactive demonstrations at InfoComm 2025, highlighting the capabilities of SDVoE technology in delivering zero latency and no compression for a broad range of real-time, high-performance applications. As part of SDVoE Alliance’s Power of 10 initiative, the SDVoE Alliance’s live demonstrations, presented by Christie and IDK Corporation, will showcase how SDVoE technology powers seamless integration for various professional AV environments.

Christie will demonstrate SDVoE’s high-performance capabilities with a live event application, where a prerecorded live event will seamlessly transition between live camera feeds. The demonstration will illustrate SDVoE’s zero latency and Instaswitch capabilities in a live production setting, emphasizing the importance of synchronized audio and video for concert feeds. The demonstration will show how SDVoE enhances live event experiences by ensuring high-quality, flawless video performance.

IDK Corporation will highlight SDVoE’s versatility in a conference room setting, showcasing its capabilities with a BYOD USB 2.0 setup. A live, interactive conference room table connected to a conference room will demonstrate SDVoE’s zero latency and InstaSwitch capabilities. By integrating no-compromise USB 2.0 alongside video over a single 10G link, the demonstration will show how SDVoE simplifies conference room setups without compromising performance or image quality.

SoundTube to Showcase New BAA, TAA-Compliant U.S,-Made Dante-Enabled PoE In-Ceiling Speakers

SoundTube Entertainment will unveil its U.S.-manufactured in-ceiling speakers at booth 2813. The Dante/AES67 IP-enabled PoE IPD-CM62-BGM-II-US speakers were designed with SoundTube's commitment to domestic manufacturing, networked audio, and product excellence in mind.

This new model, part of the CM-BGM-II-US series, represents SoundTube's dedication to meeting the requirements of the Buy American Act (BAA) and Trade Agreements Act (TAA). This compliance ensures that government entities and projects requiring U.S.-made products can confidently specify and install SoundTube speakers.

The speaker features a 6.5-inch coaxial woofer with a 1-inch silk dome tweeter. It features BroadBeam Ring technology and a tuned port on the baffle provides smooth off-axis performance, mid-range clarity and bass response to 60 Hz (-10 dB). Low-latency digital audio, power, and control are delivered to the speaker via standard category cable. They are suitable for a wide range of networked audio needs, including retail and hospitality spaces.

The Telycam Vision+ 4KZ Professional Box Camera

Telycam will debut its new Vision+ 4KZ professional box camera. Designed with an array of features in a compact form factor, the Vision+ 4KZ delivers the same high quality of Telycam's PTZ cameras for use cases that don't require remote pan and tilt. Telycam will showcase the Vision+ 4KZ in booth 3088.

The Vision+ 4KZ combines a 1/1.8-inch, nine-megapixel CMOS sensor with innovative image processing to capture lifelike 4K/60fps video. Twenty-times optical zoom enables clear close-ups at long distances, while its advanced focusing algorithm provides rapid, accurate auto-focus even while zooming. A 1080p output can be cropped from the 4K Ultra HD image, with a choice of two intelligent tracking options: auto-framing dynamically adjusts the view to keep subjects centered, while auto-tracking uses advanced AI algorithms to identify and follow a subject even in complex environments.

The Vision+ 4KZ's integrated color screen and five-button control panel display key camera parameters and enable easy, on-camera adjustments. The camera can also be remotely managed via an intuitive, browser-based web interface and standard control protocols. Its flexible connectivity includes HDMI and USB outputs; 3.5mm line-level and mini XLR (with phantom power) audio inputs; and AV over IP and streaming outputs including NDI HX3, SRT, RTSP, RTMP and more.

The emphasis on delivering high-quality, immersive visuals has become a critical demand across industries, including healthcare, live events, esports and gaming, control rooms, and more. SDVoE technology continues to address these demands while promoting sustainability and efficiency. By delivering uncompressed video and ultra-wide resolutions, SDVoE technology is creating new opportunities in display technology and reshaping Pro AV applications.

[Subscribe to the Exclusive SDVoE Alliance Newsletter]

Uncompressed video is the gold standard in AV technology. It ensures that every frame of video maintains its original fidelity, free from the artifacts and degradation often introduced by compression. On the contrary, compressed video introduces compromises that are unacceptable in high-performance AV applications. The compression method permanently removes data to reduce file size, resulting in degraded image quality that can hinder panoramic and ultra-wide displays. Additionally, off-color gradients, image noise and reduced resolution disrupt the immersive experience, detracting from the overall impact of the display. Unlike compressed video, which reduces file sizes and, in doing so, permanently eliminates some image data, uncompressed video preserves every pixel. The result is a full-resolution image with uncompromised detail and color integrity.

SDVoE’s uncompressed approach eliminates these concerns, providing a consistent and reliable visual experience. For applications where accuracy is essential, such as control rooms, live events, medical imaging and simulation environments, uncompressed video is non-negotiable. With compressed formats and slightly off-color gradients, image noise or lower resolution can significantly negatively impact performance and decision-making. For example, in a control room monitoring critical operations, the difference between true-to-life color accuracy and slight deviations can affect situational awareness and response times.

SDVoE technology delivers uncompressed video over standard Ethernet networks by utilizing a 10 Gbps network infrastructure, enabling expansive, panoramic views. These formats are particularly valuable in scenarios like command centers and entertainment venues, where wide fields of vision are essential. Whether used for a seamless video wall or a panoramic display, SDVoE’s support for ultra-wide formats ensures that viewers experience the full scope of the content without any visual distortion or degradation. The technology’s ability to handle large-scale resolutions without introducing latency ensures that users interact with the content in real time, maintaining the integrity of the experience.

SDVoE’s ability to transmit uncompressed video over standard Ethernet networks eliminates the limitations of solutions designed for 1 Gbps networks. These compressed systems, though cost-effective for specific use cases, are inherently limited in their scope and application. They cannot accommodate the rigorous demands of professional AV environments that require consistent, high-quality output across various applications. By contrast, SDVoE provides a unified platform that addresses the full spectrum of AV requirements, reducing the need for multiple, redundant systems.

From healthcare to live events, esports and control rooms, the demand for immersive and reliable video experiences has never been greater. By leveraging uncompressed video transmission over standard Ethernet networks, SDVoE eliminates the limitations of compressed formats, ensuring pristine image quality, true-to-life color accuracy and seamless real-time interaction. Its ability to support expansive resolutions and panoramic displays without introducing latency enhances visual impact and improves decision-making and performance in critical environments.

While video walls, flat panels, and projectors deliver eye-popping and engaging content in brilliant color and resolutions, they are merely the window dressing to what goes on behind the scenes.

A bevy of hardware and software solutions are needed to transmit and receive the video signal, switch sources, manage content in real-time and securely, and deliver audio to round out the user experience. Here are just a few; 22 to be specific!

22Miles’ Content Manager

22Miles’ Content Manager is an all-inclusive platform that enables efficient management of visual communications for projects of any size. It features over 1,000 customizable templates, AI-powered design suggestions, and fast editing tools, making it an ideal low-code, drag-and-drop solution for content management for systems integrators. With the industry’s most extensive library of enterprise software integrations and one-click widgets for interactive features like room reservation, 22Miles Content Manager is a future-proof solution that evolves with your business. The platform is compatible with most new and existing hardware, making it perfect for new deployments and retrofits. 

Atlona’s OmniStream 2.0

Atlona’s OmniStream 2.0 AV-over-IP firmware adds support for 4K60 video with 4:4:4 color sampling alongside better bitrate efficiency and integrated multiview processing. OmniStream 2.0 features the new VCx codec that delivers less than one frame of latency from encode to decode, enabling 4K60 4:4:4 streams with artifact-free presentation of computer-generated content and fast-motion video. Increases in coding efficiency enable additional HD streams over 1Gb Ethernet networks, multiple 4K streams over 10Gb switch-to-switch uplinks, and simultaneous 4K and HD over Gigabit Ethernet. OmniStream 2.0 also enables simultaneous display of multiple sources from OmniStream Pro encoders onto one screen.

Audio-Technica’s ATND1061

Audio-Technica’s ATND1061 Beamforming Ceiling Array Microphone has received major upgrades with its latest firmware update, including Video System Control Architecture (VISCA)-over-IP and Voice Lift technology. VISCA offers synchronized control of multiple video peripherals, improving interoperability and meeting equality. Using VISCA over IP, you can position the camera to match with the audio captured by the ATND1061. This creates a more natural experience in hybrid calls. The ATND1061 now includes Voice Lift, a technology that improves the communication environment in a space where voices don’t carry (i.e. larger rooms). Voice Lift makes a presenter’s words more intelligible.

BrightSign’s XT5 Digital Signage Players

BrightSign’s XT5 Digital Signage Players elevate and future proof digital signage activations to create captivating experiences for years to come. The XT245 delivers robust 3D motion graphics in 4K and vibrant HDR video, from Full HD to breathtaking 8K, all while being powered over Ethernet for highly efficient deployments. Meanwhile, the XT1145 enables live video playback via an HDMI input and expands engagement options with USB and serial connections. Brands can seamlessly blend broadcasts into signage, including live news and sports, to offer an engaging atmosphere. And finally, the XT2145 can control two screens simultaneously with dual HDMI outputs. This capability has become more critical as brands look for ways to engage consumers with more dynamic visual content. 

Carousel Digital Signage’s Carousel Daily

Carousel Digital Signage’s Carousel Daily is a new feature for Carousel Cloud that extends the reach of traditional digital signage content well beyond the facility walls, enabling seamless communications to thousands of devices. Leveraging Carousel Cloud’s existing content management, scheduling, and multi-platform tools, users can effortlessly push important organizational news and information directly to intended audiences. Bulletins are distributed as links or QR codes to iOS, Mac, AppleTV, and/or Android mobile devices, with external URLs that seamlessly guide viewers to essential destinations such as training completion, video viewing, company messages, and annual enrolment. Carousel Daily ensures the right messages publish on the right mobile devices, desktops, and displays.

Crestron’s AirMedia

Crestron’s AirMedia enables secure wireless collaboration in the modern digital workspace. Easy to deploy and manage, the solution can be used in conference rooms, huddle rooms, lounges, lobbies, or almost any space to establish a productive meeting environment. When integrated with the Appspace digital signage application or other web-based signage providers, AirMedia can display digital signage content when no presentation is being made or when the room is not occupied. This turns every screen into a content hub to display corporate branding, company news, or list the events slated for that day.

[25 AI-Enabled AV Products]

Datapath’s VSNMini 300 Video Wall Controller

Designed for college, sportsbook, and corporate environments, among others, Datapath’s VSNMini 300 Video Wall Controller can be used as either a personal video wall controller/workstation or as a standalone video wall controller. It boasts a slick form factor, with a modern aesthetic and the industrial-grade components that customers require. Ideal for small- to medium-sized applications, the VSNMini 300 supports the latest standards, including 12th Generation Intel Processors (i9, i7, i5) and NVMe (M.2) SSD storage for maximum performance. Graphics and capture capabilities are provided via three PCIe slots that can be configured as required with Datapath’s Image graphics, Vision capture, and ActiveSQX IP decode/encode cards.

DVIGear’s DN-300H 

DVIGear’s DN-300H DisplayNet SDVoE Transmitter/Receiver USB HID is the newest addition to the DisplayNet AVoIP family. Based on the latest SDVoE ASIC technology, the DN-300H supports USB HID device extension and routing with instant switching. It offers innovative software-defined KVM functionality, multi-screen KVM support, and advanced features including hotkey routing and system control. The DN-300H delivers unprecedented functionality and versatility in an ultra-compact, low-profile form. This unit provides switchable transmitter and receiver functionality with 10G copper and fiber network interfaces. A host of cutting-edge features and a low price point ensure high value for system integrators and their customers.

Green Hippo’s Hippotizer

Green Hippo’s Hippotizer Media Server Range provides real-time video playback, manipulation, and 3D mapping for video production in live event, AV, and broadcast applications. With reliable, purpose-built hardware, Hippotizer boasts industry-leading performance with multiple live capture, input, and output options. Hippotizer’s multi-user, network-based architecture and ZooKeeper interface seamlessly mix DMX, Timecode, Timeline, MIDI, OSC control, and API to build and add elements to any production. With Hippotizer’s complete set of intuitive pre-visualization and mapping tools, instant content updates or pixel-perfect video mapping are made easy. 

Haivision’s Command 360

Haivision’s Command 360 enables enterprise, defense, government, and public safety organizations to make real-time, critical decisions fast by centralizing multiple communication sources into a secure, intuitive video wall display that can span any size network and multiple locations. Command 360 can be set up and fully operational quickly, minimizing disruption to mission-critical environments. Upon setup, the next-generation solution—with its secure, browser-based user interface—delivers the advanced functionality needed to coordinate and manage an entire operation or command center. Key features include easy-to-use, intuitive control; enhanced security; multi-site and remote scalability; fast, easy deployment; and real-time visibility.

IHSE’s kvm-tec Scalable Pro Line

IHSE’s kvm-tec Scalable Pro Line supports up to 5K60 video over a 10G network switch. It uniquely features the ability to control and manage up to 16 computer sources on a single display via a single keyboard and mouse. By simply moving the mouse inside the gridded cell and clicking, the operator has full control of the source.

Jupiter Systems’ Zavus XP

Jupiter Systems’ Zavus XP (XP stands for Xtreme Pixels) represents the pinnacle for Jupiter display engineering, as it can handle all typical deployments, but excels in digital signage. Zavus is available in pixel pitches of 0.7mm, 0.9mm, and 1.2mm, and is truly built for the modern office. The key technology used for Zavus XP is flip-chip COB, providing an encapsulated pixel area with a smooth black resin coating that provides a cooler surface and delivers 30 percent improved energy efficiency over standard dvLED, superior grayscale, as well as unrivaled image depth and contrast. It is powered in collaboration with Megapixel VR processing for superior performance.

Just Add Power’s MC-QX

Just Add Power’s MC-QX MaxColor 4K60 Tiling and Warping Transmitter combines Just Add Power’s award-winning MaxColor 4K60 features with its innovative tiling and warping technology. It allows 4K60 source devices to be displayed on a single screen instantly, along with Warp Engine’s source rotation capabilities. Users can watch four 4K60 video sources simultaneously in multiple formats, including single-screen, video wall, or tiled video. Further, installers can rotate any source in a Just Add Power system in 0.1-degree increments in real time with incredibly low latency. The rotated image can then be sent to an unlimited number of receivers in the network, allowing for the creation of massive artistic video walls.

Korbyt’s Experiential Signage

Korbyt’s Experiential Signage empowers businesses, universities, and corporate organizations to create truly immersive, interactive digital experiences with a near-endless array of third-party sensors and devices, including touch-interactive tablets, pressure sensors, mechanical and capacitive-sensing buttons, temperature sensors, lift and learn sensors, or even optical sensors. Experiential Signage is the newest addition to Korbyt’s cloud-based CMS that lets administrators engage employees, students, customers, and guests via various channels, including digital signage, desktop, email, and mobile devices. With more than 1 million endpoints, 300 cloud migrations, and more than 100 native integrations to date, Korbyt Anywhere is the most advanced platform to captivate audiences on any screen, anywhere. 

Matrox Video’s Mura DVW

Matrox Video’s Mura DVW, a high-performance IP-based 4K distributed video wall appliance, enables the combination of multiple units in various arrangements to easily create a fully synchronized video surface of any size. Mura DVW integrates advanced computing, networking, video decoding, and graphical processing capabilities to deliver seamless visual experiences with maximum security. Mura DVW video walls are flexible and scalable, enabling you to build fully distributed video walls with performance that improves as more appliances are added. Each Mura DVW appliance supports high-density and flexible decoding—up to one 8K60, four 4K60, eight 4K30, and sixteen 1080p60 streams—all in H.265 (HEVC) or H.264 (AVC).

Mersive’s Solstice Dynamic Digital Signage

A blank screen is wasted space. Mersive’s Solstice Dynamic Digital Signage feature makes it simple and easy to bring new life and functionality to all your screens and spaces. Maximize your display’s potential with engaging visuals between meetings, by serving up content from dynamic web pages or content from Google Slides, PowerPoint, AppSpace, Carousel, Tripleplay, and more. With vibrant digital signage on touchscreens, you can create a rich experience by allowing end users to perform a range of actions. Book rooms, submit IT tickets, play videos, display important information, and more, by simply tapping on the display—all within a customizable environment that matches your organization’s branding for a more connected experience.

Navori Labs’ StiX 3800 Media Player

Navori Labs’ StiX 3800 Media Player supports flawless 4K content playback at 60fps, ensuring your media is displayed with stunning clarity and detail. Ideal for various settings, from retail to corporate environments, the compact device is also equipped with AI-powered footfall tracking, providing valuable insights into audience metrics and engagement. Features like auto-activation allow for effortless installation, while PoE capabilities minimize connectivity requirements. The StiX 3800 also promotes sustainable practices by activating the display only when the audience is detected. This makes the StiX 3800 not only a powerful digital signage solution, but also an environmentally conscious choice.

Realmotion Engine

The Realmotion Engine by Realmotion is a versatile spatial computing software. Realmotion Engine can handle both dynamic, interactive elements in real time and linear video content. Integrated with commercial-grade sensors and content creation platforms, it offers unparalleled flexibility, performance, and reliability for projects of all scales. Realmotion Engine can be leveraged in various scenarios, including interactive digital experiences, projection mapping, digital art installations, broadcast, live event venues, and more. A key strength is its ability to integrate sensor data, media outputs, media playback, lighting management, and content management through one scalable software.

RGB Spectrum’s SuperView IPX

RGB Spectrum’s SuperView IPX is a state-of-the-art multiviewer that consolidates up to eight video images on a single screen, enhancing situational awareness and decision-making workflows. Supporting both HDMI and IP inputs, it allows users to seamlessly display local and remote video sources with complete flexibility. The SuperView IPX features 4K 60Hz input and output resolutions, customizable display layouts, and presets, along with H.264 and H.265 decoding. With an embedded architecture for enhanced security and control via a browser-based GUI, Telnet, and RS-232, it is the ideal solution for mission-critical 24/7 operations.

Ross Video’s XPression Tessera

Ross Video’s XPression Tessera is a multifaceted solution for managing and filling video displays in any studio or venue. The XPression Tessera Distributed Workflow system utilizes a simple region-mapping tool to allow users to slice up a graphic on a large canvas and distribute it across multiple channels or engines for pixel-accurate rendering. A single Take ID can be used to trigger the animation to play out in perfect synchronization across one channel or dozens of them. From simple studios to the largest live event stages, Ross Video can help you engage with viewers.

Vanco’s PAEXEARC

Vanco’s PAEXEARC Digital Audio Extender with eARC transmits HDMI eARC/ARC digital audio signals up to 328 feet and S/PDIF signals up to 656 feet over a single Cat5e/6 cable. It supports bi-directional PoC, allowing power supply from either end, and features simultaneous SPDIF and HDMI outputs for a customized audio solution. With CEC pass-through in eARC/ARC mode, it enables integrated control of multiple devices. Designed for reliable performance and compatibility with various audio systems, the PAEXEARC is ideal for enhancing audio distribution in meeting spaces and classrooms, ensuring high-quality sound and ease of control in large or complex setups.

Vizrt’s Viz Virtual Studio Go

In the age of hybrid working, learning, and connecting, it’s become a key challenge to capture and keep the audience's attention. The Viz Virtual Studio Go by Vizrt was designed to help drive engagement in any instance where video is shared, boosting communication, understanding, and connection. Software and hardware are pre-configured with fully designed and customizable AR graphics and an included virtual set scene. Engineered with award-winning virtual studio capabilities, powered by Viz Engine, and built on the connected workflows of NDI, storytellers are empowered with best-in-class technology to create engaging presentation experiences out of the box.

The SDVoE Alliance today announced Justin Kennington has resigned from his role as president, effective immediately, and introduced Stephane Tremblay as the new president of the nonprofit consortium, which includes technology providers collaborating to standardize the adoption of Ethernet to transport AV signals in Pro AV environments. 

In 2016, Kennington conceived and founded the SDVoE Alliance to drive a standards-based approach to AV technology. Under his leadership, the SDVoE Alliance has grown from a handful of visionary Founding Members—including Christie, NETGEAR, Semtech, and ZeeVee—to a global organization with more than 60 industry-leading companies representing the vast diversity of the Pro AV industry. The SDVoE Alliance has developed a robust technology, established strong brand awareness, and created a vibrant community of SDVoE adopters.

[One Standard to Rule Them All?]

“It is with mixed emotions that I have decided to step down to pursue new opportunities, personally and professionally,” said Kennington. “I am incredibly proud of the milestones, accomplishments, and growth of the SDVoE Alliance. I sincerely thank the SDVoE Alliance Board of Directors, the membership, and the staff for their support and dedication during my time as president."

Kennington welcomed Tremblay as president, calling him an industry trailblazer and technology visionary. "Stephane is a highly respected industry veteran with a deep understanding of and passion for SDVoE technology," he added. "Actually, he is personally responsible for my joining the team that created SDVoE in the first place! I am confident he will lead the SDVoE Alliance to even greater heights.”

“I’m honored to be appointed by the SDVoE Alliance Board of Directors as the president of the SDVoE Alliance," Tremblay said. "Over the last seven years, Justin and the SDVoE Alliance have collaborated to solve industry challenges, promote the SDVoE standard, and educate the market about the benefits of AV-over-IP. I am energized to build upon the foundation that Justin has established, and I look forward to the continued growth and success of the SDVoE Alliance.”

[On Visualization Technologies: SDVoE Alliance]

Tremblay is a familiar face to the organization, as he developed the technology that serves as the foundation for the SDVoE Alliance. With three decades of experience in the field of semiconductors and electronics, Tremblay designed the SDVoE Alliance’s IP-based system architecture to create a more flexible, reliable, and cost-effective solution compared to point-to-point connectivity and circuit switches. As a result, SDVoE technology is the only off-the-shelf solution that provides a complete, interoperable solution.

SCN: Why is there an “OLY” after your name?

Thomas Tang: I am a two-time Olympian and participated in the 1988 and 1992 Winter Olympics in Alpine Skiing. I’ve always thought that this kind of dedication and hard work has helped me with the growing pains of starting my own business and pushing through the most challenging times. 

SCN: Why did you decide to start Apantac?

TT: I started as a flight simulation engineer in the late 1980s and early 1990s and worked on various projects including F16, F14, Apache, and other simulators. In the 1990s, when computer graphics were becoming a key part of the broadcast industry, the CEO of our company saw an opportunity to enter the broadcast industry. A group of us was assigned to work on computer graphics applications for television.

To make a long story short, our group was later sold to Vizrt, and I became one of the first 30 employees during the early days of the company. Today, Vizrt is a major player in broadcast graphics. 

[Executive Q&A: Technology Meets Vibe]

After a few years at Vizrt, I was recruited by Philips Broadcast as its North America and Asia Pacific marketing manager for the routers and master control business unit. After several divestitures and acquisitions between Philips Broadcast, Thomson Broadcast, and the Grass Valley Group, I was assigned to manage the marketing group for the Grass Valley video server division. During my time working in these large organizations, I found myself dedicated to offering many product ideas, yet they weren’t always a good fit for corporate product roadmaps.

At this point my wife offered up an interesting idea: If I was going to be working this hard, perhaps I should be working for myself—thus the beginning of Apantac. In Spring 2008, I moved my ideas into my basement and began the process of engineering, thankfully having that experience earlier on in my career. In 2009, Apantac exhibited at its first NAB, our first multiviewer product won a Broadcast Engineering “Pick Hit” award, and the rest is history. We now have over 200 products in our catalog. 

SCN: What are the short and long-term goals for your company?

TT: One of our core goals as a company is to help our customers with their product and application challenges. We’ve always taken the approach of listening to customer feedback and helping solve their issues by modifying our current products or building new ones. We also aim to bring our many years of experience in the broadcast industry to the Pro AV marketplace and deliver the reliability of broadcast product requirements to the Pro AV industry. In addition, we aim to solve challenges in both AV-over-IP and traditional baseband video. 

SCN: How is Apantac celebrating its 15th anniversary?

TT: We have been very fortunate that we have always had a very stable and consistent engineering, sales, and marketing team. And not to forget our technical support and back-office teams. We celebrated our 10th anniversary by shutting down the office for a week and inviting all our employees and their partners to a resort in Mexico. I look forward to doing something similar for our 15th anniversary. I feel that it’s so important that our team can all get together, relax, and recharge. 

SCN: Between HDBaseT, SDVoE, and NDI, Apantac certainly does not shy away from alliances. Why are these relationships important for your company?

TT: In the Pro AV industry, there are so many different methods to solve problems, and it’s important that we adapt to all the current standards. Each of the alliances you mentioned above has its unique advantages and we are open to all of them. This also includes the latest AV-over-IP standard, IPMX. 

SCN: You’ve also partnered with openGear. What are some of your most popular cards?

TT: Traditionally, openGear has served as a broadcast platform, so we have typically brought broadcast-focused cards to market. We’ve been an openGear partner since 2013, and historically our most popular cards are scan converters and frame synchronizers. However, in the past few years, we have started making more Pro AV-focused products, including KVM-over-IP, HDBaseT, SDVoE, and NDI. These cards for the popular openGear platform are gaining a lot of traction. 

[Executive Q&A: Simplified Systems through Standards]

SCN: How important are KVM solutions to Apantac’s business?

TT: In 2010, we started building KVM extenders, which were solving very specific problems for our customers. Servers and computers were always located in the equipment room, yet the user stations were far away, which meant reliable extenders were very important for the application. For the last four years, we’ve been designing, building, and delivering KVM-over-IP products, which have expanded our KVM extender line and broadened our KVM solutions to include KVM matrices. We now even have our KVM technology built into our multiviewers. Based on global customer feedback, we are proud to say our KVM products solve several key challenges, and are considered highly reliable and quality solutions. 

SCN: KVM or KVM-over-IP: What’s the more popular choice these days?

TT: This really depends on the application. KVM-over-IP is more flexible and popular, but there are still times when a point-to-point, low-latency KVM extender is required. To offer a complete solution to our customers, we have built a portfolio of products that now include KVM-over-IP, KVM point-to-point extenders, KVM switches, and multiviewers with integrated KVM functionalities.  

[One Standard to Rule Them All?]

SCN: What’s next for the Pro AV industry?

TT: There is a lot of buzz around AV-over-IP, and the Pro AV industry is looking for a standard. The alliances mentioned earlier (HDBaseT, SDVoE, NDI) already have large customer bases. IPMX is a fast-emerging set of standards and specifications for AV-over-IP. As AV-over-IP is evolving, I see a big challenge around interoperability. There is a need for products to serve as a bridge and allow interoperability between all the systems that support all the different standards and specifications.

Lightware Visual Engineering has had a busy September, releasing a new USB-C extenders based on SDVoE technology and teaming with Q-SYS. Here's what you need to know. 

Lightware Joins the Q-SYS Technology Partner Program

Lightware Visual Engineering has joined the Q-SYS Technology Partner Program. Within the program, Lightware has collaborated closely with Q-SYS to introduce a Q-SYS Certified plug-in that is tailored to integrate Lightware's extensive video matrix range. This plug-in provides comprehensive control over various video matrix devices. At launch, the plug-in will support the Taurus UCX, an HDMI 2.0 switcher with breakout audio in addition to occupancy sensor input with various control features.

[Q-SYS Acquires AI Technology Company]

The Q-SYS Platform plus Lightware video matrices have become an integral part of dynamic AV systems. This plug-in, available in Q-SYS Design Software, streamlines the design and integration of both solutions and offers enhanced flexibility and efficiency in design, commissioning, and deployment.

Introducing the Taurus TPX for Long-Distance USB-C Extension

The Taurus TPX is a lineup of USB-C extenders for high-resolution transmission over long distances. Based on SDVoE technology, the Taurus TPX features a transmitter (TX) and a receiver (RX) that enable users to connect their devices, share their content, switch hosts and control their meeting room easily and intuitively.

The Taurus TPX is built on the foundation of Lightware’s Taurus UCX, its unified communications (UC) connectivity solution that bridges the gap between BYOM applications and USB-C devices. However, every meeting room is different, and the distance between the table (the host’s laptop) and the different peripherals such as the webcam or the high-quality mic is often beyond the native capabilities of USB technology.

The Taurus TPX is uniquely designed to connect devices and peripherals, such as web cameras and microphones, across long distances in large-scale applications. Lightware’s newest development, and a natural progression from the widely popular Taurus UCX, the Taurus TPX creates a reliable, high-performance solution for extending 4K60 4:4:4 video resolution across distances up to 100 meters. The Taurus TPX features two USB-C inputs, two HDMI inputs and USB ports for host devices, such as laptops, on the TX device, and together eight USB type-A connectors for peripherals, specifically four on the TX and four on the RX. This unique connectivity platform allows users to share their content, switch hosts and control their meeting room easily and intuitively. In addition, Taurus TPX provides fast charging of laptops, tablets and smartphones. 

[One Standard to Rule Them All?]

By harnessing SDVoE technology, users can enjoy the same benefits of simplified video, audio, control, Ethernet connectivity and charging over one single CATx cable in rooms where longer distances need to be bridged. Ideal for corporate, higher education, and government and security applications, Taurus TPX enables users to utilize third-party video conferencing applications within a collaboration space, including Cisco Webex, Microsoft Teams and Zoom. It creates a simplified and intuitive solution for users to switch between multiple third-party applications depending upon their meeting needs. 

Additionally, Taurus TPX can automate room assets like lights and shades without the complexity of using another control platform. Notably, the TX supplies power to the RX, eliminating the need for additional power sources and reducing power consumption across devices. The Taurus TPX can be controlled via button panels, web browsers or by connecting a source. Together with the auto-switching and room control capabilities, the Taurus TPX creates a simplified collaboration solution.

The SDVoE Alliance announced integration with AVI-SPL Symphony, a user-experience management platform to administer, monitor, control, and analyze multi-vendor AV, UC, and spaces across environments. 

The SDVoE API expands Symphony’s view into the full technology deployment of customers. Industry professionals can control and manage SDVoE devices alongside other system devices, such as sources, displays, lighting, shades and other components via Symphony. As a result, collaboration spaces increase uptime, users adoption strengthens, and technical resources decrease time to resolution and root cause analysis. 

[The ABCs of API]

“The SDVoE API was designed as a flexible yet simple software platform to empower the rapid development of highly specialized software, custom-tailored to the needs of a vast array of end users,” said Justin Kennington, president of the SDVoE Alliance. “Our goal in designing the SDVoE API was to create a solution that would work in parallel with other management platforms, like Symphony. Together, with AVI-SPL, we are pleased to introduce integration with AVI-SPL Symphony to streamline and enhance workflows for managing a myriad of devices in collaboration spaces.”

“Symphony’s purpose is to minimize the struggles of end users and IT staff as they leverage and deploy technology. We want technology to work for us, not against us,” said Laurie Berg, vice president of Symphony Product Operations. “Working with organizations, like SDVoE, enables Symphony a broader portfolio of devices to centrally monitor, more guided and detailed incident management, increased implementation of workplace standards, and strategic analysis for future decisions. End users have an optimal experience and IT resources have peace of mind.”

[SCN Top 50 Systems Integrators 2022] 

The SDVoE API allows manufacturers, developers, and system integrators to exercise their creativity to reimagine traditional AV use cases and invent new ones yet to be conceived or even possible without the SDVoE platform. SDVoE’s API connects directly to the cloud to enable remote management and monitoring in a modern and IT-friendly fashion. Operators can monitor the performance of their SDVoE technology remotely to reduce downtime and control complex tasks. SDVoE’s API supports complex programming tasks for various applications, such as video walls, instant-switching, and multiview, without the extra cost, downtime, and hardware. With the SDVoE API, technology professionals can access those tasks via the Symphony platform, while also having visibility into their entire collaboration estate.

The SDVoE Alliance will highlight the flexibility of AV-over-IP at InfoComm 2023. Members of the SDVoE Alliance are installing AV-over-IP systems based on SDVoE technology worldwide in a kaleidoscopic variety of venues. The SDVoE Alliance will focus on various vertical market integrations at InfoComm 2023 from June 14–16, 2023, in Orlando, FL.

[One Standard to Rule Them All?]

SDVoE is the only AV-over-IP solution that can match the performance of a matrix switch. Featuring flawless technology and zero latency, users don’t have to compromise performance with SDVoE technology. SDVoE boasts a powerful processing engine capable of video manipulations such as scaling, cropping, and stretching. As a result, SDVoE members, integrators and end-users have documented success with AV-over-IP systems based on SDVoE technology.

[Follow the ROAD TO INFOCOMM 2023 at AV Network] 

At InfoComm 2023 (Booth 4453), the SDVoE Alliance will showcase the flexibility of AV-over-IP by highlighting success in a unique variety of vertical markets, including: 

• Command and Control: In March 2022, Furuno Electric completed a large-scale renovation of all the spaces on the ground floor of the Communication Bridge. IMAGENICS’ NEX-SMART, powered by SDVoE technology, was selected to distribute high-quality, 4K content across multiple displays in the Communication Bridge. 
• Education and Esports: The Carolina Gaming Arena at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill selected Black Box’s MCX as a simple and intuitive control system that would allow students to interact with the technology in the room with ease. The Black Box MCX is built on SDVoE technology to harness the power of Ethernet for matrix-switch quality and performance without limitations. 
• Hospitality: Yuu Residence Sriracha selected AV LINK, powered by SDVoE technology, to create an unparalleled environment for guests while promoting convenience and accessibility. With captivating AV quality, the visual possibilities were unlimited, and the goal was for guests to have the most memorable accommodation experience.
• Entertainment and Live Events: The University of Houston recently updated the projection mapping content for its basketball team, the Houston Cougars, creating a dramatic, on-court pre-game show at the Fertitta Center. Christie, powered by SDVoE technology, integrated 3DLP projectors, Mystique, a Pandoras Box Server, and Terra, an AV-over-IP system to create a dramatic, on-court pre-game show.
• Retail: Designed and constructed to be a destination mall, American Dream takes entertainment, dining, and retail to a new level, built on a foundation of interactive and immersive audio and video. The SDVoE Alliance was selected to drive content to more than 200 displays throughout the complex in collaboration with NETGEAR, Aurora Multimedia, and SNA Displays.

According to the application and network intelligence company Sandvine, streamed video usage grew 24% in 2022 and accounts for 65% of all internet traffic. This is why streaming video distributors need access to a video streaming standard that is reliable, interoperable among many AV equipment platforms, and uncompressed for 4K traffic to maximize viewing quality.

Software Defined Video-over-Ethernet (SDVoE) is a proven, reliable AV-over-IP standard that runs on commercial-off-the-shelf 10GigE networks. It is compatible with technology made by major AV equipment manufacturers and vendors including NETGEAR, ZeeVee, Christie, Semtech, Black Box, and IDKAV—all of which banded together to form the nonprofit SDVoE Alliance consortium in 2017. Today, it has more than 55 members, with approximately 800 SDVoE products in their combined catalogs.

[SDVoE Alliance's Record Year: New Members and Professional Certifications]

“SDVoE is different from other AVoIP video standards because SDVoE is built around a chipset that is common to all SDVoE devices,” said Justin Kennington, president of the SDVoE Alliance. “This means interoperability is built into this standard from the start.”

The Key Is Interoperability

The creation of the SDVoE standard addresses one of the AV user community’s biggest complaints, namely that proprietary AV equipment made by Vendor A won’t interoperate with AV equipment made by Vendor B. Such restrictions limited the choices of users when it came to buying new AV equipment, including combining gear from various vendors to reuse legacy equipment and get the best prices for new purchases.

Before Windows-based personal computers became ubiquitous, this was something AV vendors could get away with, but no longer. “You can't go to the IT director and say, ‘Well, we have to buy Dell printers because we have Dell laptops, and as you know, Dell laptops only work with Dell printers,'” Kennington said. “That's an insane conversation, and yet that used to be the conversation in AV. If I've got a specific AV vendor’s system today and I want to expand it, I need to buy from the same AV vendor tomorrow. That's how AV has done business in the past. But I don't think this approach works anymore in an IT-centric world, and neither do the members of the SDVoE Alliance.”

In fact, the clear, compelling need for an interoperable AVoIP standard is what galvanized a handful of manufacturers and others to put aside their proprietary pasts and come together for the AV industry’s common good. “The founding members of the SDVoE Alliance all believed that we have to ultimately change how we do business to stay competitive,” said Kennington. “Although changing their way of doing things was scary—it feels safe to say, ‘You can only use my products with my products’—they all knew what the AV industry was facing thanks to PCs and how we had to start looking at the world.”

Kennington’s explanation is echoed by Bob Michaels, CEO of ZeeVee. “Our involvement with the core technology goes back to 2014 when we were looking to move our legacy products, which were all RF-based, into AVoIP,” he said. “We became a founding member of the SDVoE Alliance as a result of the experience we gained over those earlier years, and because we truly believe in the technology.”

“SDVoE was one of those places where we saw a kinship in needing some kind of standardization in the industry for how AV is moved over an IP network,” added John Henkel, NETGEAR's director of SMB marketing. “With SDVoE, our customers realize that they can use endpoints from any manufacturer depending on their need, and they can mix-and-match in different rooms if that's the way it works best for them. All kinds of SDVoE signals can come from various vendors’ equipment and then run through a simple NETGEAR switch and it's all going to work reliably.”

Other Advantages

SDVoE’s interoperable design delivers tangible benefits to AV vendors, content providers, signal distributors, and end users. The technology's use of 10GigE networks is another big benefit in the emerging world of 4K video.

“Our philosophy is to use as little compression as needed to transport signals,” Kennington said. “If your video signal is less than 10 gigs per second, we don't even compress it. So, a 4K 30fps signal is 6 Gbps of raw video data: We just transmit that as a 6 Gbps stream on our network.”

Of course, there are larger video data streams—for example, 4K 60fps works out to 12 Gbps of raw data, which won’t fit into a 10 Gbps pipe. “That's when we turn on our very lightweight and usually lossless compression, which will squeeze it down to 9 Gbps,” said Kennington. “The most bandwidth that we ever consume for a video stream is 9 Gbps, because we want to leave that last gigabit available to support data traffic.”

As for signal latency? It can occur when video is streamed using the SDVoE standard, but latency can occur no matter what standard is being used. “Everything has latency: If you and I are standing in a room six feet from one another talking to one another, there is latency in the speed of sound,” Kennington observed. “The real issue is whether or not this latency is detectable by the user.

"In SDVoE, the latency is the same that you would experience going through a matrix switch, which is the latency of a few memory buffers in the line. If SDVoE compression is turned on, that adds five video lines of latency. So, for a 4K60 video signal, with compression turned on, our latency is a fixed 117 microseconds.  That’s 0.117 milliseconds.”

Then there’s power savings. SDVoE runs on ASIC (application-specific integrated circuit) chipsets, which have been designed to support the SDVoE standard. As such, they use up to 70% less electricity than an FPGA (field-programmable gate array)—a common architectural choice for other AVoIP products—doing the same job. This reduced power can save operators serious money when hundreds or even thousands of SDVoE devices are in use.

“ASIC technology is at our core,” said Kennington. “Our approach to AV-over-IP is more sustainable, which is great to think about in big green/save-the-planet terms. Saving electricity means cutting emissions and reducing your carbon footprint and all that, and it's also saving a lot of money for the end customer.”

In this world, nothing is certain, except death and taxes—and, of course, Dante and maybe NDI. I’m pretty sure that’s what Benjamin Franklin wrote back in 1789.

Very few products or technologies ever reach the level of market saturation and/or cultural relevance to be designated as “ubiquitous.” Xerox, for example, became synonymous with copy machines; the brand name even became a verb. Back in the archaic days when people used videotape to record television programs or buy movies for home collections, VHS dominated the market. Even today, say “Chyron” to a video production professional and they know you mean graphics, even if they use a different CG.

[Editorial: All Signage Points to Growth]

Zoom came pretty close to ubiquitous status during the pandemic, but I’m not convinced that will hold. The competition from Teams, Meet, Webex, and others has become formidable at this point. The fact that companies tout certification of their products for more than one platform speaks volumes.

You could make the argument that Dante is already there. Launched in 2006, it has basically cornered the networked digital audio market. According to Aidan Williams, Audinate CEO and co-founder, about 3,300 products from close to 500 manufacturers use Dante. Seems pretty ubiquitous to me.

NDI wants to be ubiquitous, too, but it’s not there yet. NewTek unveiled its low-latency, AV-over-IP solution in 2015. Since then, NDI has been building its popularity, partnerships, and ecosystem. (Version 5.5 was announced last August.) Last year, NDI’s Suso Carillo told me the protocol is becoming a de facto standard.

[Epiphan Video Bridges Ecosystem of NDI Cameras with Microsoft Teams to Unlock Power of Hybrid Productions]

“The ultimate long-term goal is for NDI to become the video standard in the worldwide video industry,” he said. “In the short term, we’re looking to boost adoption in both the broadcast and Pro AV industries, but also explore other verticals where NDI is used, like in healthcare and corporate.”

Is the strategy working? Well, let’s look to JVC Professional Video for an answer. In February, the company announced three new CONNECTED CAM broadcast cameras. CONNECTED CAM was launched back in 2018. This is a mature product line that already features built-in low-latency streaming options, 4K image capture, the works—what feature could they possibly need to add?

NDI, that’s what. And that’s exactly what the company is touting with its latest models. It’s even offering current CONNECTED CAM owners the option to send in their old units for an authorized NDI manufacturer modification. JVC has obviously decided the licensing fee is less expensive than losing potential customers looking for NDI solutions.

Are there other options out there? Of course. There’s more than one way to skin a cat or send video over existing IP networks in real time. SDVoE, IPMX, SMPTE ST 2110—you’ve got plenty of AVoIP options, and they all have their selling points and limitations. Dante has even branched out to get in the AVoIP game, recently announcing its Dante Studio 2.0 software update.

[Anatomy of SDVoE]

Until such time as ol’ Ben Franklin tells us otherwise, NDI is where many manufacturers are placing their bets. Unlike Dante, however, NDI is facing serious competition from alliances and other manufacturers. It will be interesting to see if any AVoIP protocol can reach VHS status in the coming years.

On the last day of ISE 2023, AV Technology’s content director, Cindy Davis took to the interviewee couch at the SDVoE booth to have a Face to Face AV talk with SDVoE Alliance president, Justin Kennington to discuss big trends from the show. Oddly enough, the trends Davis cited just happened (I swear) to align with the SDVoE Alliance mantra of "sustainable, flexible, available."

From Samsung’s bold 360-degree sustainability message that took over nearly the entire front of the largest booth at ISE, to partnerships galore creating a faster path to market, to the many companies whose proud message was that product was shipping, Davis and Kennington explore these trends and more.

And no, Davis does not usually speak in the third person. There’s a first time for everything. 

Check out the full Face to Face AV interview below. I think you’ll enjoy it, I did.

Christie Mirage 4K40-RGB pure laser projectors have formed the centerpiece of a new extension to a research center at IRCAD (Institut de Recherche contre les Cancers de l'Appareil Digestif) located within the University Hospital of Strasbourg, France. IRCAD 3 is the latest addition to the globally recognized surgical research and training institute, and the 2,400 square meter (26,000 square foot) hub building dedicated to robotics. AV integrator DEYA installed a pair of Christie Mirage 4K40-RGB projectors in its 237-seat auditorium, delivering 3D and outstanding color reproduction required for specialist learning. A Christie Terra SDVOE-based AV-over-IP solution is used to power content at the auditorium, and the building features a host of IP-connected audiovisual elements throughout, including speakers, microphones, digital signage and video conferencing technologies.

[9 Large-Venue Projectors and Key Features Experts Recommend as Live Events Return] 

“The aims of the auditorium were above all 4K and 3D, but also to ensure a very immersive experience,” said David Hiltenbrand, audiovisual technician at IRCAD. “We wanted, unlike the other auditoriums we had, to have a large, wide projection area so we could display at least five or six images to provide versatility. We were looking for a laser projector with beautiful colorimetry and strong 3D capabilities. The choice naturally turned to Christie, who was the only manufacturer at the time to offer this type of product. We also switched to video over IP throughout the building, and that’s a complete paradigm shift.”

The auditorium is equipped with a fully modular stage space, with the 11.6-meter (38 foot) display powered by two Christie Mirage 4K40-RGB pure laser projectors. The 40,000-lumen projector achieves greater than 95% of Rec.2020 color space, and its 120Hz refresh rate enables 3D applications. The all-in-one projector delivers detailed images, built-in warping and blending, near-field communication monitoring and an at-a-glance preview screen. The auditorium features microphones installed within the seats, a discreet but powerful audio solution, six 4K cameras and a video conferencing system. DEYA—which was responsible for all technology throughout the building—also established an AV control room and implemented an ecosystem of equipment throughout IRCAD 3, all connected over IP with a Christie Terra AV-over-IP solution.

“The 3D element in surgery is very important, since it allows you to have the depth ratio to understand the various elements,” said Carlos Alves, head of IRCAD audiovisual department. “Colors are also very important, and obviously everything must be very defined to see all the small vessels and so on. And with 4K resolution and at 60Hz or 120Hz, it allowed us to have all these required elements. The architect has made a magnificent auditorium with waves at ceiling level and leather armchairs. So, we had to combine technology and aesthetics, which was another challenge.”

[AVoIP Standards: The Fight to Get It Right] 

The outcome is a highly specified center of excellence, equipped with powerful AV technology that has blended the required high levels of performance while maintaining the ultra-modern aesthetics of the building.

AVT Question: Please share insight into the current state of networked AV and control; what you see as barriers to entry; and what advice can you offer on how AV/IT managers can overcome limited resources or a lack of buy-in.

Thought Leader: Rich Ventura, Vice President of B2B at Sony Electronics

As AV/IT managers plan for the future with limited resources and rigid infrastructures, both proper planning and establishing goals at the onset of a project help keep things on track from a timeline and budget perspective. AV/IT managers should also take advantage of the copious benefits available from manufacturers, such as integrated solutions, warranty programs, and bundles.  

Companies including Sony are providing more transparency to the community by providing important resources such as field-based sales support engineers, technical product documentation and key product specifications, building information modeling (BIM) content, CAD drawings, case studies and white papers, among others. These valuable resources provide a more accessible way to inform, plan, specify, and integrate a project. AV/IT managers should also consider flexible technologies that can accommodate various infrastructures and installation methods. Additionally, scalable technologies that can grow with the customer—through software and firmware updates to unlock new capabilities—allow users to get the most out of their technology without paying for unnecessary features. Selecting trusted, dependable manufacturers that provide compatibility among key partners is also critical to ensuring a seamless installation and longevity. 

AV Technology's Thought Leader Series on AVoX

Check out what other industry thought leaders have to say about the state of networked AV. A full list with links can be found at the bottom of the On AVoX, the Intro Article

AVT Question: Please share insight into the current state of networked AV and control; what you see as barriers to entry; and what advice can you offer on how AV/IT managers can overcome limited resources or a lack of buy-in.

Thought Leader: Justin Kennington, President of the SDVoE Alliance

AV over IP is a fast-growing market. The need for solutions that can support 10 Gbps and deliver true 4K is driving the adoption of IP-based solutions. The rapid innovation of IP-based solutions has disrupted the industry, with different approaches to AV over IP being introduced, leading to a mashup of IP-based solutions that do not deliver a unified solution. The IP mashup has caused immense barriers to entry due to the lack of interoperability. This will only become more complex and create even more significant disruption unless it’s addressed head-on. 

Fortunately, the SDVoE Alliance continues to address today’s AV over IP discrepancies with a completely interoperable full-stack solution. The SDVoE Alliance is the only solution to provide an interoperable solution. Other platforms are either vendor-proprietary or fail to meet full-stack requirements, leading to future interoperability challenges. 

Together, the SDVoE Alliance’s members provide over 700 solutions designed to integrate seamlessly and flexibly to provide system integrators, designers, consultants, and installers with a reliable, sustainable solution. SDVoE technology provides an end-to-end hardware and software platform for AV extension, switching, processing, and control through advanced chipset technology, common control APIs, and interoperability. SDVoE’s off-the-shelf capabilities eliminate the need for manufacturers and users to patch together solutions from many pieces, and, as a result, eliminate traditional barriers to entry for professional AV applications.

AV Technology's Thought Leader Series on AVoX

Check out what other industry thought leaders have to say about the state of networked AV. A full list with links can be found at the bottom of the On AVoX, the Intro Article

For a moment, let’s take a broader look outside professional AV. If the past is any indication, important trends in consumer content delivery will inform the technologies and products of our professional AV future. It’s how the professional AV industry adopted HDMI, remember? With that relationship in mind, let’s investigate the cutting-edge video delivery of our home’s televisions, tablets, and phones. Hopefully, we may shed light on the future of professional AV’s next-generation technologies and products. 

Nearly every streaming service and movie studio capture the latest episodes and films utilizing video cameras with 8K resolution. While many of these shows and movies are unavailable to the public in their native resolution, content producers have recognized that 8K has already arrived. To ensure an 8K video is delivered in full resolution from the content creator to the 8K screen, many links in the chain need to be upgraded from today’s 4K components. A critical element in that chain is the compression encoder that squeezes a 50+ gigabit-per-second signal into something that will fit over an internet pipe and maintain reasonable quality. The compression and distribution task are exceptionally computationally complex.

As usual, the first solution the early adopters will attempt is PC-based. A PC is easy to obtain and can be programmed to do something new—like encode 8K into H.264, VP9, or other formats. Folks are already moving down this path, including Colleen Henry, cobra commander of Facebook video special forces. In a detailed video on the Demuxed YouTube channel, she details a hardware and software solution for creating an 8K contribution encoder. The hardware? A $10,000+ PC with a 64-core CPU, dual NVIDIA graphics cards, and a capture card. Colleen admits this application for 8K is not often practical and cites boasting as one of the primary use cases.

Besides the tremendous cost of this single-channel video encoder, the power consumption is off the charts. In the video, Colleen jokes about the computer-generated heat on her lab bench. Lenovo ships the machine with a 1,000 Watt power supply, and this machine’s estimated power consumption is around 870 watts. You could build a hair dryer with that kind of power!

Don’t forget this is a single-channel solution. If you need to encode ten video channels, multiply the cost and power figures by ten.

8K for the Masses

Clearly, a PC-based solution is on the bleeding edge, and something else will be required for wide scale adoption. One solution available to the streaming industry today is the Quadra T1 VPU from NETINT. If you read my last column in AV Technology, you might not be surprised to learn that the Quadra T1 is an ASIC-based solution for video encoding.

The Quadra T1 is still PC-based encoding, so the flexibility is still there. The ASIC accelerates the encode computations, consuming fewer PC resources and power. According to figures from the 8K Association, a single-channel solution based on this card will cost $3,500 and consume 270 watts. That’s a 70 percent reduction in cost and power consumption!

But since PC resources are not consumed by encoding, it’s possible to install multiple VPUs into the PC and take advantage of the economics of scale. In the same 8K Association model, a 10-channel encoder (built into a single PC) would cost only $2,000 per channel and consume just 50 watts per channel, resulting in 80 percent cost savings and 94 percent power savings!

What does this tell us about the future of pro AV? It’s certain that 8K is on the way, and we will need products that distribute high-resolution formats. Today’s AV over IP encoders are divided into those which are based on ASICs and FPGAs. In my last piece, I discussed how an ASIC might consume up to 80 percent less power than an FPGA doing the same job. The ASIC power consumption is an important savings for 4K. Still, it will become even more critical as resolutions increase because the higher the pixel rate, the higher the power consumption. Today’s FPGAs are simply incapable of processing 8K resolution. The FPGAs of tomorrow are power-hungry and extremely expensive. An ASIC-based solution, like SDVoE, is the only way forward.

8K & SDVoE

The SDVoE Alliance is vital in bringing 8K to professional audio and video systems integration and has already demonstrated the world’s first 8K AV-over-IP solution. SDVoE’s 8K approach is powered by the BlueRiver ASIC from Semtech, a Steering Member of the SDVoE Alliance. A BlueRiver ASIC combines AV processing, encoding/decoding, and network connectivity onto a single chip. For individuals requiring a reliable, cost-effective, and sustainable solution for 8K content, SDVoE technology, and ASIC-based products are the only viable solution on the market.

For more information on the SDVoE Alliance, please visit www.sdvoe.org. Keep up with the latest news from the SDVoE Alliance on LinkedIn, Twitter and YouTube.

We talk a lot about SDVoE being sustainable, flexible, and available. These days, availability might be the rarest and most valuable of those attributes. After all, AV professionals cannot do their job without installation equipment.

SDVoE products are widely available, while many proprietary AV-over-IP products are back-ordered for over a year. Many of the industry’s most prominent manufacturers are failing to meet their customers’ demands due to component shortages. It’s challenging for them to obtain the chips needed to build products. Why?

Every electronic device has one main chip that delivers the product’s functionality: the CPU. It’s in every laptop or cell phone, the system-on-chip in a television, the microcontroller in a toaster, or the CODEC engine inside an AV-over-IP encoder. Surrounded by resistors, capacitors, power supplies, and other components, this central device completes the product.

As you can imagine, today’s consumer demands have accelerated the need for semiconductors. In 2021, the global semiconductor industry shipped a record 1.15 trillion semiconductors.

These core devices come in three primary flavors, including CPUs, FPGAs, and ASICs. The type of device used has a massive impact on availability. Let’s start by understanding these devices.

The CPU

The most familiar device is a CPU. It is at the heart of the PC or mobile device. A CPU, or central processing unit, is a hardware device that executes a series of predefined instructions. The instructions are wide-ranging and allow a CPU to perform any computational task possible. A CPU can also change tasks virtually instantaneously. Although, the overhead of running pre-defined instructions means that a CPU (yes, even your blisteringly powerful 24-core monster) is relatively slow and power-hungry compared to the other chips. For this reason, AV-over-IP streaming on a CPU is relatively new and rather rudimentary, though it is possible and likely to gain popularity over the long term.

The FPGA

An FPGA, or field-programmable gate array, shares some of the flexibility of a CPU, but achieves this in a vastly different way. An FPGA is programmable hardware, which means it does not run instructions. Instead, the programmer re-shapes the hardware to perform a specific task. An FPGA can be programmed to perform any computational task with very high performance. It can only change tasks by being reprogrammed. The extra transistors that make the FPGA incredibly flexible add cost and power consumption to the package. FPGAs are great for high-performance applications, but volumes are relatively low.

The ASIC

An ASIC, or application–specific integrated circuit, is optimized to compute one single function or a set of functions. It does nothing except what it was initially built to do, and that’s all it will ever do. It performs with the highest performance, lowest power consumption, and lowest per-device cost possible.

Why would anyone use anything else? Well, sometimes, the flexibility of a CPU is essential. For a minute, imagine a PC that could only run Microsoft Word. Additionally, developing a single ASIC costs $10 million or more. They’re very cheap after the first one, though.

AV Supply Chain

Now, how does this impact the AV supply chain? As mentioned above, FPGAs are a great choice when the cost of developing an ASIC is not justifiable. For a single AV manufacturer, it is impossible to justify spending $10 million upfront to develop an ASIC. Instead, using an FPGA makes a lot of sense. Manufacturers pay more per unit but practically nothing upfront. Performance is good and the power consumption issues, fans, and special PoE adapters become something that’s widely accepted. The business model works, but only in the pre-pandemic world when all chips are easy to source all of the time.

Currently, the entire semiconductor supply is in a crunch as the market for complex chips, such as microcontrollers, microprocessors, and FPGAs does not have enough supply to meet today’s growing demand. Due to their flexibility, FPGAs are important to all electronics manufacturing industries – not only professional AV. Now that these chips are limited, they are being rationed to the highest-volume customers. An example is the automotive industry chip shortage. Who do you think gets to the front of the line for FPGAs? DVI Gear or General Motors? This is said with love and respect to DVI Gear, who doesn’t have this problem! For specific FPGA devices, customers report an average lead time of 52 weeks or one year. Does that figure sound familiar?

On the other hand, ASIC devices are built to perform one single function, limiting customers for a particular device. Who needs an AV-over-IP-only chip? Pro AV manufacturers only!

Today, SDVoE is powered by the BlueRiver ASIC from Semtech, a Steering Member of the SDVoE Alliance. A BlueRiver ASIC combines AV processing, encoding/decoding, and network connectivity onto a single chip, which interfaces to the SDVoE API in a standardized way – regardless of who integrates the ASIC into their product. The combination of BlueRiver ASIC and SDVoE API gives SDVoE products natural interoperability.

The chip is limited to the pro AV environment, demand is easier to predict, and it has not been subject to the significant shocks seen in other electronics industries (or, more pertinently, in the combination of other electronics industries). A BlueRiver ASIC is available and shipping today to companies across the community.

The flexibility, availability, and sustainability of BlueRiver ASIC are exactly why SDVoE members have products in stock and ready to ship. As a result, the SDVoE Alliance is poised to support a global customer base with a flexible ASIC solution to meet customer delivery demands amid ongoing supply chain disruptions. 

What is SDVoE?

SDVoE is a specific AV-over-IP technology. SDVoE harnesses the power of off-the-shelf 10-gigabit networks to enable video distribution with flawless quality and advanced features at breakthrough-low prices to finally deliver on the dream of converged AV and IT networks.

The SDVoE Alliance promotes SDVoE technology. Established in 2017, the SDVoE Alliance is a nonprofit consortium of technology providers collaborating to standardize the adoption of Ethernet to transport AV signals in professional AV environments and to create an ecosystem around SDVoE, allowing software to define AV applications. The SDVoE Alliance was founded to accelerate the industry’s transition to Ethernet-based AV distribution. The SDVoE Alliance’s steering members, Black Box, Christie Digital, IDK, NETGEAR, Semtech, and ZeeVee, recognize the value of AV and IT convergence and set out to establish a standard that supports sustainable, flexible, and available technology. 

The SDVoE Alliance and its technology provide a necessary platform for true AV and IT convergence, with zero-millisecond latency and flawless image quality, utilizing a 10-gigabit infrastructure. Together, the SDVoE Alliance unites ecosystem partners, including AV equipment manufacturers, AV software developers, switch manufacturers, chipset designers, technology providers, and system integrators, under a single banner to foster collaboration and empower AV and IT convergence.

SDVoE is supported by an ASIC chipset, which means the power consumption of an SDVoE endpoint is up to 75% lower than a comparable alternative. SDVoE’s ASIC chipsets can result in tens of thousands of dollars saved yearly in electricity costs for large systems. Of course, it also means a significant reduction in environmental footprint.

SDVoE’s ASIC chip is the key to availability. Currently, FPGA-based products are quoted with 52-week lead times (or more!) because those flexible FPGAs are in high demand from all industries – industries with far more purchasing power than professional AV. Meanwhile, the BlueRiver ASIC embedded in SDVoE endpoints is only available to professional AV manufacturers. As a result, SDVoE members have products in stock and ready to ship.

How is SDVoE Different?

SDVoE technology is quite different from traditional point-to-point connectivity, matrix switches, and other proprietary AV-over-IP systems. The SDVoE Alliance links its 50 members with over 700 products on a common interoperable hardware and software platform. Interoperability is the real game-changer as manufacturers of point-to-point technology and matrix switches navigate supply chain challenges. Progressively, system designers and integrators are objecting to the trap of single-vendor solutions and embracing SDVoE’s model of interoperable solution providers. The SDVoE Alliance is poised to support a global customer base with a solution to meet customer delivery demands amid ongoing supply chain disruptions.

Although SDVoE emphasizes sustainability, flexibility, and availability, it’s important to note that performance has not been overlooked, either. SDVoE is the only AV-over-IP solution that can match the performance of a matrix switch. Featuring flawless image quality and zero latency, users don’t have to compromise on performance or flexibility with SDVoE technology. SDVoE enables end-to-end transport latency under 100 microseconds and a full-featured image processor capable of scaling, cropping, compositing, and more.

The SDVoE Alliance is built for today’s market needs. While the professional AV industry is being disrupted by ongoing supply chain challenges, the SDVoE Alliance provides feature-rich technology that enables integrators to meet their project deadlines without compromising affordability and performance.

It never hurts to do a side-by-side comparison with various manufacturers on the market. Compare the pricing, features, warranty, support, and availability. Never believe the marketing jargon—believe the results of your own testing and due diligence.

The AV-over-IP market has been growing year after year, deeply impacting how AV is distributed. Products come in a variety of flavors addressing many applications. However, to date, all fall short addressing the full spectrum of a one, true "go-to" standard.

Sometimes, we must be critical of what we have to achieve what we really want. In fairness, to all the up-and-coming AVoIP standards, it takes a lot of time, money, and development to become the dominate standard.

[Is AVoIP at a Tipping Point? One Man's Opinion]

Currently, MPEG (H.264/265), SMPTE ST 2110, NDI, SDVoE, IPMX, Dante, and ASPEED (popular ASIC used in many products) exist. These are a combination of transport and codecs, not to be confused with each other. The transport protocol will manage the communications, timing, and more in relation with the codec. The codec is the compression technique that will ultimately determine the bandwidth and quality of the image.

The Importance of Interoperability

There are a variety of manufacturers with technologies that are proprietary in nature and can only be used by those specific manufacturers, making interoperability with other brands impossible. They all have value—not negating that fact—but the focus here is standards.

[AV-over-IP for Enterprise Organizations]

While a standard could be defined by majority market share, interoperability between different brands allows more choice, better cost, innovation, and overall sustainability. The VHS vs. Beta format war is a great example. Betamax (proprietary to Sony) was better overall, but VHS was licensed to a vast amount of manufacturers, which resulted in lower cost to the consumer with a larger variety of choices. In the end, VHS became the dominate choice.

What makes the ultimate AVoIP standard? All you need is interoperability, no compression to very high compression for operation on any network bandwidth, low to no latency, near perfect image and audio quality, encryption, security, USB/RS-232/IR/CEC control, timing accuracy between different units, scaling, videowall modes, image rotation, seamless switching, windowing, remote previewing, OSD, backward compatibility, and the use of standard communication practices for the control and device protocol. Simple, right?

Moving forward, simultaneous low and high bandwidth will also be an important feature to bridge the remote workforce with the facility (unified communications). This is where H.264/.265 will shine, as locally high quality and low latency is necessary, while the remote user will need the lower bandwidth for the internet connection.

While this all sounds like the kid in the proverbial candy store, it does solve most issues across multiple markets. Broadcast, corporate, residential, digital signage, government, and medical currently focus on their specific needs—but it should not have to be segmented this way. One unified standard could open new innovations and capabilities to which each market has never been exposed. Often, the reason AVoIP seems intimidating is the rules each different standard requires on the network, as well as the protocols to control them.

On The Menu

Let’s look at what is currently available. They all have their pros and cons. Below is a brief list only—I encourage you to research deeper into the full specification to reveal how it may or may not impact your application.

MPEG (H.264, H.265): Very low bandwidth (typically utilized on 10/100 networks), it's great for internet transmission and recording. Long latency and poor image quality compared to others. Focused on audio and video.

SMPTE ST 2110: Broadcast centric, it focuses on better video quality at low latencies, however, it lacks the interoperability expected of a standard, as it has no session defined protocol, no encryption, and no transport control channels.

NDI: Developed by NewTek, this is a mid-compression, low-latency transport and codec. Mainly used in the broadcast industry, it has started to work its way into commercial AV using cameras as the means to gain traction. Good interoperability, but lacks the transport control channels and the higher quality video.

SDVoE: Focused only on 10G infrastructure, it delivers high-quality encrypted AV with no frame latency (100us) in a low power ASIC. Feature rich with video wall, windowing, scaling, and more. Transport control channels for RS-232, USB, and IR. Highly interoperable, but limited by a lack of 1G infrastructure capability.

IPMX: Focused on 1G to 25G, it uses the SMPTE ST 2110 and JPEG XS standards to achieve its current results. It supports transport control channels, encryption, and playback on computers. Depending on the partner, the video wall and other advanced features can vary. Currently only on FPGA, which makes it more costly and power hungry.

Dante AV: Continuing to build on its popular audio standard, it is currently focused on the 1G distribution space. Based on the IntoPix JPEG 2000 standard, it currently requires use of an FPGA, so it is costly and power hungry. It has transport control channels, but lacks the features other standards have and has a limited adoption due to current global supply chain issues.

ASPEED: On its third generation ASIC, ASPEED is known for its low-cost, full-featured 1G transport/codec. Image quality, latency, and feature set are extremely good. ASPEED is listed as a standard because of its popularity in the low-cost, low-power consumption market. It does lack interoperability between manufacturers that other standards have and is focused currently on 1G market.

FPGA vs. ASIC: What is important is not the breakdown of the differences, just the result to the product(s). For an AVoIP standard to be successful, it will be necessary to be available in an ASIC form. ASIC uses less power and costs less, leading to better adaptation in a variety of products. FPGA, while very flexible, has a high cost and a very high power consumption.

For example, SDVoE’s ASIC uses as little as 2 watts of power. When this standard first started as an FPGA, it was more than 12 watts. That is a lot of heat to put in a flat panel display or some other type of device, making it more difficult to have as a base feature.

So many choices, what does one do? The answer is easy. Evaluate the requirement of the application and use the standard that best suits the project. It will be years before there is one true standard that rises above the rest. Until that time, there are plenty of great choices.

Datapath has released a new dedicated SDVoE capture card for real-time applications. The VisionSC-S2 card meets the SDVoE Alliance’s stringent parameters for minimum latency and high-quality resolution. At the same time, it ensures compatibility with the SDVoE Alliance’s broad range of multi-manufacturer hardware solutions that provide quality, networked video to the highest standards.

“We are delighted to welcome Datapath to the SDVoE Alliance," said Justin Kennington, president of the SDVoE Alliance. "Six years since the founding of the alliance, we are seeing a massive increase in the breadth of the product catalog. Besides standalone encoders and decoders, with the addition of the Datapath VisionSC-S2, we are bringing video directly into the PC, where it can be processed.”

[Datapath Appoints New Manager, Takes Its Roadshow to the U.S.]

The SDVoE Alliance has established the industry standard for the adoption of Ethernet to transport AV signals in professional AV environments, including wall controllers in a control room and high-quality feeds into medical controllers and critical surgical monitors. With Datapath’s dedicated SDVoE capture hardware, enough PCIe bandwidth is provided to properly transfer the full quality available in the SDVoE feed into an application, and with minimum added latency to ensure the end-to-end solution is fit for real-time applications. Furthermore, SDVoE is ideal for routing to Media Severs for long-distance real time signal processing where minimum latency is crucial.

With 4K/60 capability, the VisionSC-S2 card delivers an important part of the networked video mix. “SDVoE provides a flexible way to route signals in high-end installations, but not all streams end up directly on a screen," explained John Storey, CTO at Datapath. "They often need to be ingested into PC-based video controllers for manipulation, analysis or encoding. We are proud to bring our new capture card to market, ensuring high quality video captures alongside Datapath’s proven reliability.”

[How SDVoE Technology Solves Communication Obstacles for European Parliament]

All AV distribution and processing applications that demand zero-latency and uncompromised video can benefit from SDVoE technology, which provides end-to-end hardware and software platform for AV extension, switching, processing, and control through advanced chipset technology, common control APIs, and interoperability. SDVoE network architectures are based on off-the-shelf Ethernet switches, thus offering substantial cost savings and greater system flexibility and scalability over traditional approaches, such as point-to-point extension and circuit-based AV matrix switching.

“Yuu” implies magnificence and superiority, reflecting Yuu Residence Sriracha’s mission to design and deliver the highest quality living experience. The condominium and serviced apartment selected AV LINK to create an unparalleled environment for guests while promoting convenience and accessibility. With captivating AV quality, the visual possibilities were unlimited, and the goal was for guests to have the most memorable accommodation experience.

[SDVoE Alliance: New Members and Latest News]

Providing ultimate living experience was an AV challenge 

Yuu Residence Sriracha set out to provide residents with an entertaining environment to promote engagement across the property.

Yuu Residence Sriracha is a 29-story condominium and serviced apartment nestled within Chonburi, Thailand. Yuu Residence Sriracha boasts 285 guest rooms and suites, over 1,600 square meters (over 17,222 square feet) of public areas, including a Japanese-style tatami room, an infinity pool, an outdoor hot spring, and a private beach with a patio and pier. Ten minutes from downtown, Yuu Residence Sriracha is surrounded by restaurants, shopping malls, medical facilities, and corporate and industrial hubs. Boasting magnificent ocean views, Yuu Residence Sriracha is designed to deliver a unique combination of and balance of life to promote the ultimate living experience.

AV LINK provides flexible solution 

AV LINK’s IPS devices harness SDVoE’s platform to instantly transmit perfect pixels and data. The IPS devices provide one of the most advanced IP streaming solutions by supporting 4K/60Hz 4:4:4, zero latency, and seamless switching for mission-critical applications, including healthcare, corporate, education, and government. Powered by SDVoE technology, the IPS series offers excellent synchronization on all video wall screens, from 720p to 4K pixels.

"AV LINK’s technology enables zero latency and seamless switching making it possible to present instant entertainment content that will amaze guests and exceed their expectations," said Doris Chang, sales representative for AV LINK. "IPS devices with AV-over-IP functionality support various video modes, including video walls and multi-window video displays.

[AV-over-IP for Enterprise Organizations]

“The IPS devices provide intuitive web GUIs to allow the Yuu Residence Sriracha to configure audiovisual content through a powerful platform. AV LINK provides APIs to assist the environmental control system in integrating IPS devices and controlling them directly to reduce operational complexity in the same environmental control interface. Those in the control room can also use third-party controllers through IR, RS-232, and USB connections. It provides the flexibility to control the remote projectors and TV or adjust the volume without moving to the conference room or event site."

“AV LINK’s APIs help us to integrate IPS devices with the existing environmental control system and transport the video to multiple meeting rooms and event spaces,” explained a representative of Matrix Intertrade. “It is important that AV LINK helps us achieve increased functionality at a lower cost. Additionally, the after-sales services are immediate and incredible."

Why SDVoE technology was trusted for the installation

SDVoE reaches beyond existing standards to provide benefits no other technology can claim:

• A complete ecosystem: SDVoE Alliance members are manufacturers with expertise in signal distribution, display manufacture, IT infrastructure, chip design, and AV software. The integrator has dozens of partners to align with and products to choose from.
• A flexible yet simple software platform: The SDVoE API allows rapid development of highly specialized software, custom-tailored to the needs of a vast array of end users.
•  A full OSI stack solution: Only SDVoE offers the simplicity of a complete top-to-bottom solution, fully encompassing infrastructure, transport, processing, and a simple control layer.

The SDVoE Alliance, a nonprofit consortium of technology providers collaborating to standardize the adoption of Ethernet to transport AV signals in professional AV environments, announces a collaboration with Semtech and Audinate for a turnkey reference design that simplifies AV-over-IP by combining the power of SDVoE video and Dante audio, discovery, clocking, and software control. 

[InfoComm 2022: SDVoE Alliance to Introduce 8K AV-over-IP Endpoints]

The SDVoE Alliance, Semtech and Audinate’s collaboration enable Dante-functionality to accelerate and streamline integration with SDVoE technology. Semtech’s BlueRiver AV-over-IP chipset is paired with Dante Embedded Platform to create a turnkey audio and software control solution for SDVoE based products. The reference design is interoperable with over 3,000 Dante-enabled audio products from more than 500 manufacturers. SDVoE technology expands the Dante ecosystem by enabling a category of AV-over-IP products traditionally supported by matrix switches. By combining SDVoE with Dante, manufacturers can create solutions which are optimized for both audio and video, utilizing a single control interface in Dante Controller.

“Semtech’s BlueRiver platform is designed to provide an efficient and cost-effective solution to address the ever-changing technology requirements of the professional AV market,” said Don Shaver, vice president of video products for Semtech. “The collaboration between Semtech, the SDVoE Alliance and Audinate is designed to simplify AV-over-IP technology without compromising quality or performance.”

[The Inside Track—Straight from InfoComm Exhibitors] 

“The SDVoE Alliance is a forward-looking alliance that is focused on future-proof technology. We believe in supporting new features and capabilities without new hardware,” said Justin Kennington, president of the SDVoE Alliance. “The reference design is eliminating traditional constraints by combining the power of SDVoE video, Dante audio, and Dante Controller to create a unified solution for software control.” 

“From the beginning, Audinate has focused on simplifying the customer experience for networked audio and video. This partnership with Semtech and the SDVoE Alliance extends this vision into the 10G space by providing a unified control experience for customers of SDVoE products,” said Josh Rush, chief marketing officer for Audinate.

Semtech’s BlueRiver chipset is the world’s only chipset to transport uncompressed, near zero-latency Ultra HD/4K HDR over standard Ethernet and is the foundation for SDVoE technology. SDVoE technology offers imperceptible latency (less than 0.1ms) and pixel packing technology that enables visually lossless 4K40 4:4:4 transmission over standard 10Gb Ethernet networks.

The SDVoE Alliance, a nonprofit consortium of technology providers collaborating to standardize the adoption of Ethernet to transport AV signals in Professional AV environments, announced QSC has joined the Alliance as an adopting member. 

QSC is a globally recognized technology and software manufacturer of Q-SYS, a cloud-manageable audio, video, and control platform built around a modern, standards-based IT architecture. The addition of QSC to the SDVoE Alliance will allow us to collaborate to enable any SDVoE hardware to be easily controlled by the Q-SYS Platform.  

[InfoComm 2022: SDVoE Alliance to Introduce 8K AV-over-IP Endpoints]

“The SDVoE Alliance is thrilled to welcome QSC—our first major control system vendor to actively participate in the SDVoE ecosystem,” said Justin Kennington, president of the SDVoE Alliance. “Joining SDVoE hardware with Q-SYS control will mark a significant step forward in providing flexible, reliable, and cost-effective systems architecture to foster collaboration. The introduction of QSC to the SDVoE Alliance further supports our focus on future-proof design to enable system integrators, designers, consultants, and installers to meet the industry’s ever-changing technology requirements.” 

“Q-SYS is a robust software-based platform that takes advantage of industry-standard protocols and developer tools to enable seamless Q-SYS integration for virtually any third-party device,” said Jason Moss, vice president alliances and ecosystems for QSC. “We are pleased to be part of this alliance and now provide customers the option to easily control SDVoE solutions.”  

[Q-SYS Part of Major League AV at Toronto's Rogers Centre]

The SDVoE Alliance has over 50 members pushing the boundaries of innovation with new, problem-solving solutions designed to integrate seamlessly together. Together, the SDVoE’s members provide over 700 solutions that are designed to integrate seamlessly and flexibly to offer system integrators, designers, consultants, and installers with a reliable, sustainable solution. 

The demand for simplifying the deployment, configuration, and operation of routing and switching solutions has manufacturers developing solutions that, on an increasing basis, are designed to automate the process. Companies are also answering the call for more flexibility, and the desire to be able to achieve more with less gear.

In combination with making routers and switchers easier to configure, manufacturers are addressing how users’ needs have evolved as a result of the pandemic. “A lot of the products that we’re going to be introducing and showing this year are focused on the new world and the new way of doing things; for handling things locally, as well as for the people who have to work remotely,” said Paul Harris, CEO and CTO at Aurora Multimedia Corp. “A lot of the products we’ve developed this year solve [these] problems. And they make it easier by bringing everything to one device that can help you get to where you need to be.”

Here are a number of developments we’ve seen in this product category over the last few months.

Hall Technologies

Hall Technologies’ new EMCEE200 4K Multiview Presentation Switcher will process up to four 4K60 video sources simultaneously. Featuring a dedicated confidence monitor as well as presentation HDMI outputs, the EMCEE200’s modular expansion slot design gives users the flexibility to add expansion cards when required, depending on the application. Additional features include Picture-in-Picture (PIP) and Picture-over-Picture (POP) capabilities, a built-in dual mic mixer, and a variety of audio embedding and de-embedding options.

Ken Eagle, vice president of technology at Hall Technologies, argues that perhaps the most interesting feature of the EMCEE200 is that it offers USB 3.0 4K capture, which allows users to livestream without additional hardware.

“It has the ability to capture and livestream video right from all of your sources in the room, whether that’s your computer, local cameras, or a media player, and take that feed directly out of the presentation switch and route it directly to Zoom, or YouTube, or Facebook—take your pick,” Eagle said. “And this is all done out of one seamless box.”

[ Moving Forward with the Adoption of AV over IP ]

Eagle also points to Hall’s Versa 4K, a 4K video and USB over IP solution for large projects. “It’s a very powerful AV over IP solution that delivers very high-quality video and audio [quickly] around the network,” he said. “It enables campus-wide deployments, large-screen video applications like video walls, and digital signage rollouts.”

Kramer

Kramer’s ASPEN-32UFX is a 32-port SDI matrix switcher with interchangeable inputs and outputs. Its open architecture offers users more flexibility to adapt the unit to their specific and often evolving needs, said Chris Kopin, executive vice president of technology at the company.

“You decide which connector is an input or an output—we’re not fixed to any particular size,” Kopin said. Depending on the project, the ASPEN-32UFX could be configured to feature one input and 31 outputs; 31 inputs and one output; two 8x8 matrix switchers in one box; 16 2x1 switchers, and so on. “It’s a completely open architecture, which I think is extremely creative.”

Kramer also offers the VS-34FD, an 8K-ready 34-port multiformat digital matrix switcher with interchangeable inputs and outputs. “Again, you can build it according to whatever fits your application,” Kopin said. “And the backbone of it is 8K-compatible, so as we’re building more cards for it, we know we have the infrastructure [for 8K] as 8K becomes more popular.”

[ What's the Status of the AV over IP Transition? ]

Aurora Multimedia

Earlier this year, Aurora Multimedia, manufacturer of the IPX Series of 10G AV over IP solutions, announced the IPX-TC3A Series of encrypted 4K60 10 Gbps AV over IP transceiver box and wall plates. Based on the SDVoE platform, these solutions feature redundant fiber and selectable copper fiber in a single unit. The series incorporates Aurora’s IPBaseT technology, which supports seamless switching, USB 2.0, Dante/AES67 8-channel, 1 Gbps Ethernet, and control.

Aurora also offers the HT Pro Series of 4K60 4:4:4 HDBaseT transceiver wall plate and box solutions, capable of transmitting uncompressed 4K60 4:4:4 18 Gbps HDMI 2.0/HDCP 2.2 video over a single cable. There is a Dante option for two or eight channels, and an ARC (Audio Return Channel), which enables the units to be fed to Dante or to the local line output.

Extron

Joe da Silva, director of product marketing at Extron, noted that the manufacturer’s portfolio of fixed format, hybrid, and all-in-one presentation switchers has been updated.

For example, Extron’s DXP 4K PLUS Series of HDMI matrix switchers, with audio de-embedding, now supports resolutions up to 4K60 4:4:4. This line features models in sizes that range from 4x2 to 16x16.

da Silva also highlighted the company’s XTP switchers: “XTP Systems offer a hybrid matrix switching approach that features local connectivity and extended transmission capability using a single Cat-x or fiber optic cable to paired transmitters and receivers,” he said. With models ranging from 4x4 up to 64x64, XTP’s modular frames feature a 50 Gbps backplane, and new input and output boards allow for uncompressed 8K HDMI switching and distribution.

Extron’s DTP Systems category has been updated as well, with the IN1800 Series and DTP2 CrossPoint models now supporting 4K60 4:4:4 switching and signal extension. “Our all-in-one presentation switchers and matrix switchers combine several Extron industry-leading technologies to deliver switching, extension, [and] control, plus audio amplification and DSP processing in a single-box solution,” da Silva noted. Models that feature control functionality have also been upgraded to include Extron’s latest quad-core control processors.

Crestron

Released in 2019, Crestron’s DMV NVX AV over IP switcher is designed for applications that require the delivery of content feeds to a matrix of different displays. The platform has undergone several updates over the last couple of years, including the introduction of the DM-NVX-E760 encoder, which offers AVoIP bridging that allows for integration with HDBaseT solutions, as well as models supporting AES67, Dolby Vision, HDR10+, and PoE+.

“The DMV NVX is for installs that require some inputs to many outputs, or many inputs to some outputs,” explained Alex Peras, director of product management, UC, and corporate development partnerships at Crestron. He added that the company is also updating its transmitters and receivers to support the latest audio/video formats, as well as the latest security standards. “We’re also bringing in USB routing, because now it’s audio, video, and USB, as well as control, to make sure that we can make the entire ecosystem work together.”

Netgear

Netgear’s AV Line of M4250 IP switchers was designed to facilitate installation for AV-centric integrators. Featuring the company’s IGMP Plus technology, the M4250 aims to deliver out-of-the-box functionality, doing away with the complex configuration process often associated with multicast video applications. Built-in profile matching, for example, offers integrators a list of prebuilt profiles of popular AV over IP products, eliminating the need for manual inputting and configuration. The switchers also include Auto-LAG and Auto-Trunk features, which enable integrators to link multiple units together seamlessly.

Laurent Masia, director of product line management for managed switches in Netgear’s ProAV Engineering Services division, said that the M4250’s development was a result of feedback the company was receiving from AV integrators. “The value proposition is that integrators [can assign] the protocol they want—Dante to port one, Aurora Multimedia to port two, for example,” he said. “When that’s done, the switch-to-switch connectivity, the configuration of the V-LAN, the trunking, and the multicast, everything is fully automated so that there is no more configuration needed. It just works.”

Carolyn Heinze is a freelance writer/editor.

This article originally appeared in the November 2021 issue of SCN. Click here to read more stories from November 2021.

More About Routers and Switchers

Finding the Heart of Your Network • Routers and switchers make all the difference when it comes to effectiveness.

It’s All About Signal Distribution • AV routers and switchers continue to evolve.

The What: DVIGear is introducing the DNS-20, the latest version of DisplayNet Server, which provides the interface layer required to manage and control a DisplayNet system. Compatible with all current DisplayNet endpoints, the DNS-20 leverages the latest SDVoE technology to manage, control, and distribute uncompressed AV signals with resolutions of up to 4K/60p over a 10GbE Ethernet network.

The What Else: DisplayNet systems consist of multiple transmitter and receiver endpoints, a 10GbE network switch, and a DisplayNet Server, which provides the interface layer required to manage and control the entire system. The new DNS-20 is a Small Form Factor (SFF) embedded Linux server. Equipped with a quad-core Intel processor, the DNS-20 delivers exceptional performance with less energy, less heat, and minimal noise. The LCD display on the front of the DNS-20 displays both system statistics and the IP addresses of the server, making setup simple and straightforward. The unit fits in a 1U rack space, occupying less than a half-rack width, and includes rackmount brackets.

[ The Integration Guide to AVoIP ] 

The DisplayNet API Engine is pre-installed on the DNS-20 and supports the use of DisplayNet Manager, a web-based software application for system setup and configuration. DisplayNet Manager includes powerful tools to route signals, configure device settings, build video wall configurations, construct multiviewer layouts and configurations, perform EDID management, generate and save scripts and presets, as well as view and test DisplayNet API commands. Both DisplayNet Manager and the DisplayNet API include rapid application deployment features that are designed to facilitate the use of third-party control systems and enable DisplayNet to be quickly and easily integrated into a wide range of professional AV applications and workflows.

The Bottom Line: The DNS-20 serves as the cornerstone of the DisplayNet AV-over IP distribution platform by providing system integrators with outstanding value, ease of installation, flexible control options and robust network security.

Other DVIGear News

AV Meets IT • DVIGear’s Matthew Pulsipher shares why integrators need to rid themselves of preconceived notions regarding AVoIP technology

What's the Status of the AV over IP Transition? • Manufacturers discuss the transition to AV over IP networks and their company’s place in the shift.

Moving Forward with the Adoption of AV over IP • Camille Burch outlines principles that are preventing wholesale implementation of an AV and IP merger for converged IP networks.

Installing AVoIP Systems Today Affords Future Expansion Possibilities • As adoption rates for AV over IP increase, the professional AV community has the chance to grow along with it. 

Embracing IT Innovations for AV Applications • As AV and control manufacturers evolve from hardware to software providers, we asked thought leaders about what the evolution might look like, and to give us a peek into their company’s near- and long-term roadmaps.

The Tennessee State Museum, which opened in October 2018 on the corner of Rosa L. Parks Boulevard and Jefferson Street in Nashville, has already become a must-see attraction. Tracing its roots back to a museum opened by a portrait artist on the Nashville public square in 1817 and later to a state museum that consolidated World War I mementoes and other collections from the state, the Tennessee Historical Society and other groups, the current iteration of the Tennessee State Museum charges no admission fee and has become an important catalyst for the educational and cultural enrichment of Tennesseans and tourists alike.

Its mission is to procure, preserve, exhibit, and interpret objects that relate to the social, political, economic, and cultural history of Tennessee and Tennesseans. One of the largest museums in Nashville, it spans 137,000 square feet and has hosted hundreds of thousands of visitors since it opened.

A key component of the Tennessee State Museum is a flexible and feature-rich AV system that brings to life the history and stories it shares throughout its seven permanent exhibits and a rotating roster of temporary and seasonal exhibits. The museum additionally features a 200-seat Digital Learning and Outreach Center, and several common areas that host events, lectures, panel discussions, and film screenings.

“Particularly exciting is the way we tell these stories through sophisticated AV presentations,” said Ashley Howell, executive director of the Tennessee State Museum. “Each visitor learns differently—through seeing, hearing, and touching—and our audio-video presentations bring all of their senses into play as they explore artifacts and images, view documentaries and films, or interact with touchscreen displays.”

The museum won an Excellence in Development Award from the Nashville Chapter of the Urban Land Institute in September 2020 for its “design and construction, catalytic effect, standard of industry excellence, and environmental stewardship.” (YouTube link.) In addition to the museum’s executive team, the award recognized the efforts of the larger group responsible for the success, including Design & Production Inc. (D&P), a design, project management, and technology system integration firm for the museum market that was responsible for system fabrication; and Gallagher & Associates, a museum planning and design company that created all of the interpretive exhibits, graphics, and donor recognition efforts, and concepted all of the audio-visual experiences. Exhibit software at the Tennessee State Museum was developed by Cortina Productions, a creative media design and production company specializing in the museum field; and Northern Light Productions, creators of transformative experiences for brands, museums and public venues.

[ Museums Step Up Engagement with Next-Level Tech ] 

Sue Lepp, senior vice president at D&P, is gratified by visitors’ enthusiasm and critical acclaim the institution has received. She sees the facility as the blueprint for the modern museum.

“The vision of the Tennessee State Museum’s administration and the layout of the facility, combined with the important history-telling mission, made this a particularly rewarding project to work on,” said Lepp. “A museum experience should be entertaining as well as educational in order to draw repeat visitors and keep the interest of today’s tech-savvy audiences.”

Greg Matty, project executive at Gallagher & Associates, pointed out that this ambitious project was executed under a tight deadline, which made efficient teamwork essential.

“The timeframe for this project—to outfit a huge new building with state-of-the-art AV-driven exhibits—was only three years from start to finish, which was quite ambitious,” said Matty. “All parties pulled together to contribute value and deliver the world-class exhibits for visitors to enjoy and learn from for years to come.”

Next-Gen Exhibits Require High-Performing and Cost-Effective AV

Examples of the museum’s many interactive and visually engaging installations include the Tennessee Time Tunnel exhibit, which serves as the backbone for the entire permanent gallery. Its aim is to provide visitors a multi-layered experience with engaging media and thought-provoking interactive displays.

As visitors enter the Civil War and Reconstruction exhibit, they watch a five-minute video that sets the tone of the times before being plunged into an immersive experience that includes projected text and imagery, as well as transporting soundscapes. An interactive touch table with a map of Tennessee lets visitors access information and stories from the battlefield and beyond from each of the state’s 95 counties.

[ Enriching History with AV ] 

In the Tennessee Transforms exhibit, another interactive map enables visitors to learn about influences that have formed and continue to form the state’s cultural identity and people’s impression of the state. A theater within the museum hosts an interactive touch table and three large wall screens on which visitors can explore more than 100 cultural topics. The Digital Learning and Outreach Center provides presentation space and remote access to other museums, colleges, schools, and scholars.

To provide the necessary level of technical performance for these exhibits, the museum’s technical team chose a ZeeVee and Juniper Networks-driven Software Defined Video over Ethernet (SDVoE) AVoIP solution to distribute the wide array of AV content throughout the facility. For starters, the SDVoE AVoIP network is able to deliver high image quality with near-zero latency, which was essential for the interactive exhibits. The technology also gives the museum the flexibility to quickly scale to deliver content to additional endpoints as permanent and temporary exhibits call for more sources or displays to be connected.

Ambient sound is served to theaters and specialized exhibit subsystems via QSC’s Q-SYS Core 510 processor. Panasonic projectors and displays, 3M touchscreens, Dell computers, and BrightSign video players have been standardized across the various subsystems. A fiber backbone was implemented to distribute AV signals throughout the facility.

Ancillary equipment for custom touch tables included PQ Labs touch frames with Panasonic Videowall displays for interactivity. All source and signal distribution equipment is located in Middle Atlantic equipment racks.

ZeeVee encoders and decoders extend signals to more than 20 individual exhibit locations, many with multiple synced sources and displays. The entire system is networked via Juniper Networks EX4550 Ethernet switches. The user interface and unifying control system was custom programmed by D&P using Medialon Manager by 7thSense.

[ High-Tech Storytelling: Museums, Exhibits, and AV ] 

Of great importance to any public venue is the reliability and ease of maintenance in support of the visitor programs. The networked and digital character of the selected equipment provides a reliable and maintainable system that is able to operate year round on an automated schedule, with options to support special events after hours. Component failures can’t always be prevented, but the ability to troubleshoot remotely via the Medialon control system and network access to the Juniper, ZeeVee, and Q-SYS signal distribution systems lessens the burden on the educators and museum staff.

The Tennessee State Museum’s administrators, staff, and sponsors have all been impressed by the widespread positive attention the institution has generated and credit the role technology has played.

“We wanted to elevate the exhibits from passive to active experiences that highlight the eras, individuals, and artists who have contributed to the development of Tennessee’s identity within the state, and its role on the national and international stage,” said Howell. “Our partners on this project brought great enthusiasm along with impressive skill sets to create a dynamic AV system that enabled us to meet our goal.”

Click here to read more stories from the August 2021 issue of SCN.

More About Museum AV

High-Tech Storytelling: Museums, Exhibits, and AV • As the museum and exhibits market seeks new ways of telling stories and engaging the public, AV is playing a starring role.

Enriching History with AV • Museums are finding themselves in the position of having to balance the function of educating and entertaining visitors with very specific health and safety requirements. For help, museum directors are relying on integrators to assist them in creating experiences that are both safe and engaging.

Museums Step Up Engagement with Next-Level Tech • Museums are moving from "objects under glass" to destinations for interactive and immersive experiences. Learn how several centers are working to capture the interest of younger generations with innovative technology solutions that enable captivating storytelling.

Staying Engaged in a Contactless World • From the way patrons purchase tickets or interact with those at the help desk to the way exhibitions are laid out and designed, museums are currently planning for new operating procedures that will revolve around guest safety and contactless technology, while not diminishing the overall experience.

Recent Exhibits

Statue of Liberty Museum Brings History to Life with Panasonic Projection • Diversified and Panasonic developed and implemented an immersive projection system at New York's Statue of Liberty Museum to help deliver an engaging experience for visitors.

Museum of Science and Industry Welcomes Visitors with AV Stumpfl • The Museum of Science and Industry has reopened with a new look for its Pioneer Zephyr exhibition, complete with digital and analog projection solutions from AV Stumpfl.

Crafting an Immersive Soundscape • ACMI, Australia’s national museum of screen culture, uses Audinate’s Dante to create a soundscape that uses both localized sound and sound that exists as a background across the entire gallery space.

Mad Systems Blasts Off at the Temecula Children’s Museum • When the staff at the Temecula Children’s Museum wanted to create a new exhibit for the fictional Professor Pennypickle, they turned to Mad Systems who used projection mapping to allow visitors to experience time and space travel.

Apantac, provider of technology solutions for the broadcast and pro AV industries, has joined the SDVoE Alliance as an adopting member.

“We recognize the importance of AV over IP in our industry and after careful examination of the many standards, we came to the conclusion that SDVoE has the highest quality and reliability,” said Thomas Tang, president of Apantac. “We have some exciting signal processing and extension products based on SDVoE in our roadmap, and we look forward to delivering the highest quality to our customers—as well as providing the right technology solutions to our integrators to help them simply their workflows.”

“We welcome Apantac to the SDVoE Alliance and look forward to working with them and their extensive global network of resellers and system integrators as they bring their SDVoE products to market,” added Justin Kennington, president of the SDVoE Alliance. “Apantac’s reputation for delivering flexible and innovative technology solutions to their customers aligns perfectly with our vision for the SDVoE ecosystem.”

Apantac’s first products that address the SDVoE ecosystem are a family of SDM modules including a 12G SDI Receiver and a UHD HDBaseT Receiver. 

The SDVoE Alliance is accepting applications from programmers and software developers to get early access to the SDVoE Developer Certification Program and help shape its future. 

The program will feature a basic qualification course consisting of eight modules followed by an exam, which once successfully completed confers “SDVoE Certified Developer” status and opens access to additional resources. Detailed online documentation and advanced training walk developers through the more complex features of the SDVoE API including multiview, video wall, etc. 

“In this phase of the SDVoE API roll out, we will be supporting a selected group of AV programmers and software developers who aim to create amazing user experiences on the SDVoE platform,” said Justin Kennington, president of the SDVoE Alliance. “I like the analogy to iOS and Android. Our members (like phone makers) provide the hardware that the SDVoE API software platform (like iOS/Android) lives on. Our members (like phone makers) also build applications on top of that platform. In the iOS/Android example, the vast majority of software—and the most important software—comes from independent developers. The open SDVoE API will become that standard application development platform for pro AV.  It’s the way for developers, small independents and large manufacturers, to play in the same sandbox, and create outstanding user experiences built around audio and video distribution.”

“Training and support around the SDVoE API are key differentiators for what we’re doing in the SDVoE Developer Certification Program,” added Matt Dodd, head of education for the SDVoE Alliance.  “Many companies release an API and just let the documents get stale and developers struggle. We are taking a more proactive approach and training is a huge part of that. There will also be a user forum where SDVoE members and certified developers can mingle and share tips, tricks, and questions.”

Developers are invited to apply for early access to the SDVoE Developer Certification Program through the SDVoE Alliance website.

Advantech has joined the SDVoE Alliance as an adopting member.

Advantech plans to introduce a series of SDVoE-compliant products to its portfolio of 4K video processing and transport products with a particular focus on medical, industrial, and pro AV applications. The initial products will include bidirectional HDMI extenders and multi-port equivalents that will be compatible with other SDVoE-ecosystem offerings.

“We are excited to join the SDVoE Alliance and we look forward to cooperating with other members to provide comprehensive, advanced, AV-over-IP solutions,” said Ted Feng, director, Video Solutions Master Division, Advantech. “In addition to technical excellence, collaboration between suppliers to ensure interoperability is a key aspect of ecosystem partnerships, and this is valued by our customers”.

“We welcome Advantech to the SDVoE Alliance and congratulate them on their fourth-place ranking on the Best Taiwan Global Brands list for 2020,” added Justin Kennington, president of the SDVoE Alliance. “We look forward to their coming product introductions that will benefit SDVoE members and customers worldwide.”

Kramer has formed a global partnership with Netgear to deliver complete end-to-end solutions for AVoIP infrastructure and further accelerate Ethernet-based AV distribution in professional environments.

Kramer’s offering now includes Netgear's full range of data networking switches worldwide, giving customers a single point of contact for turnkey delivery of complete AVoIP solutions, optimized for their application. 

[The Integration Guide to AVoIP]

Netgear is a founding member of the SDVoE Alliance, a consortium of technology providers who aim to standardize the adoption of Ethernet to transport AV signals, allowing software to define AV applications.

“Our partnership with Netgear allows us to offer a complete AV over IP systems in the most demanding environments and to be even more agile when bringing such solutions to market globally," said Aviv Ron, vice president of business development and strategy at Kramer. “Netgear's professionalism and dedication to AV over IP is unparalleled and we are thrilled to partner with them in this evolution."

“The partnership with Kramer goes beyond just the hardware,” added Laurent Masia, director of product management for managed switches at Netgear.  “Both companies are committed to providing a range of solutions that make incorporating AV over IP easier than ever in the pro AV industry.  Netgear welcomes the chance to work together and continue to listen to the pro AV community to engineer products that delight our customers.”

Video over IP has been adopted more widely over the past year. As products and applications become more flexible, interoperable, and standards-based, users find they can apply them to many different verticals and solutions.

Andrew Ludke, Crestron’s product management director for AV solutions, and Alex Peras, Crestron’s digital media product manager, shed some light on the ongoing transition. “During the global pandemic, companies have had to adapt and respond to the changing and evolving needs of their organization, supporting remote participants with the intention of treating them like first-class citizens. The flexibility of AV over IP has made it easier for those who have invested in the technology to react. In addition, AV over IP has gained broad acceptance in medium- and large-scale deployments, with continued adoption in high-security environments such as in government and corporate settings.”

[The Integration Guide to AVoIP]

From an integration perspective, real-time VoIP has some technical advantages. “The real benefits in real-time video over IP have come in the way of latency and resolution. Technologies such as software-defined video over Ethernet (SDVoE) do not provide ‘near uncompressed’ and ‘lightly compressed’ video and audio over IP, but instead deliver pixel-perfect images with latencies of less than 20 microseconds,” explained Black Box director of product management, AV and infrastructure Jonathan McCune.

Evolving Trend

Considering the distances that can be covered by an organization’s IP networks, the technology today allows teams to interact with pandemic-appropriate group sizes or socially distanced teams internally. “This can then be integrated with wider systems such as meeting, conference and signage systems,” suggested McCune.

Real-time encoding of video for live streaming and recording is now a very mature market broken up into hundreds of hardware- and software-based solutions to support many different workflows, explained Matrox’s Samuel A. Recine, vice president of sales for the Americas and Asia-Pacific.

Scroll through the gallery below to see the latest Video over IP products for pro AV.

“In the AV infrastructure market, most significantly in this past year we have seen the continued emergence of tightly coupled encoder/decoder pairings designed to offer the best possible quality, performance, and low latency for very high node-count installations, but—more importantly during COVID—for multisite and remote AV infrastructure implementations,” he added.

For integrators, Recine stated that there are several factors to consider when it comes to real-time video over IP. These include examining the use case scenario to determine cost, security, and performance criteria.

Essential Considerations

Recine suggested some questions to ask integrators: “How useful is the real-time video? Will the real-time video over IP be interoperable with the hardware and software products that interest me? Does it meet the organization’s security and vulnerability requirements for both signal management and payload encryption? What are the capabilities and tools provided by the solution to support local applications and remote applications? What can the product do out of the box? What tools exist to allow it to connect to other things?”

In terms of performance, Recine advises integrators to factor in the bit rate for real-time 4K and real-time HD video and audio, as this can affect the number of nodes, the ability to do remote work, and network complexity. Quality is also a priority, he stated, “as motion video and static high-frequency content like PC text must both perform well.” Managing latency is also important.

Understanding what protocols are supported is another important factor when it comes to real-time video over IP. “Some protocols are much better at sustaining performance over noisy networks than others,” he continued.

Recine said integrators should also ask these questions: “How many channels are supported? Are audio and video carried together or separately, or both? How many inputs are supported at capture? How many concurrent streams are supported? Can the streams be different protocols? Is secure encryption an option? What’s the performance with it on or off? Is only audio and video required, or is bi-directional control over USB required?”

The Integrator’s Checklist for Real-Time VoIP

Black Box’s McCune gives a quick rundown of what integrators should consider when working with real-time video over IP.

1. Network Infrastructure

There are many discussions around using either 1 Gbps or 10 Gbps networks and their (dis)advantages. In reality, 10 Gbps access is possible today in many deployments and network architectures at a cost much lower than anticipated. Modernization of networks will allow planners/users to access much broader capabilities and features within an AV/IT network.

2. Network Documentation

Documentation of network infrastructure is very important when it comes to access and system expansion. For integrators, proper documentation will provide a more complete picture to work from.

3. Resolution Requirements versus Preconceived Notions

We hear it all the time: “We need 4K!” In fact, we’re now starting to hear 8K grumblings. Carefully consider if users really need it … or if they just want it. Is it even possible in the network environment (e.g. based on the number of endpoints or types of sources and displays)?

4. Security

This is the top concern of many planners. Questions should include: How are the networked pairings encrypted? What is the security protocol in a network controller? And many more.

5. Ad-Hoc Connectivity

Bring Your Own Device (BYOD) has been a popular discussion for a long time. However, the primary device/source addition today is real-time video over IP. The ability to interconnect and share multiple video and source streams on demand is critical.

What’s Next for Real-Time Video over IP?

While the flexibility and scale offered by video over IP is clear, Crestron’s Peras and Ludke foresee greater demands and specifications being required in a post-pandemic future. “AV over IP is about flexibility, scalability, and enabling unique applications. Post-COVID, there will be a need for integrating not just video, but also UC into more and more spaces. This includes spaces in which UC was not as frequently deployed, such as multipurpose rooms, flex and divisible spaces, executive briefing centers, and training and education spaces.”

According to Peras and Ludke, the ability of AV over IP to transport audio, video, and USB data and control enables more flexible UC integration, empowering and connecting these more complex spaces. “With AV over IP, it’s possible to create more immersive and equitable experiences, bringing those environments together in a very cohesive way. AV over IP has also really pushed the boundaries by providing secure and high-quality video distribution that’s scalable and flexible in one simple solution.”

Furthermore, the ongoing pandemic is likely to cement some more permanent changes in the way we consume and deliver video. “While we will eventually go back to sporting events, bars, schools, and work, we’re going to see a more permanent change in the way we interface with both people and objects. Integration of IoT into AV and AV-over-IP systems are going to create a more disconnected connected world. I think we will see more voice and imaging enabling systems, and far more automation,” stated McCune.

This prediction of a wider move toward greater integration for real-time video over IP seems universal among all three manufacturers. “More integration for remote workflows will mean several things,” added Recine. “Increased focus on interoperable open standards. High emphasis on security without compromising performance. More, and better, out-of-the-box capabilities for remote workflows, and improved integration tools to work with other hardware and software products.”

VuWall has joined the SDVoE Alliance as an adopting member.

VuWall's TRx management platform has always been compatible with SDVoE technology. However, VuWall’s recent launch of its VuStream 500 Series of receivers and transmitters completes the company’s SDVoE offering, making it the ideal time for them to join the alliance. The VuStream 500 Series is SDVoE compatible and complements VuWall’s ecosystem of products, fully controlled and managed through the TRx platform. 

“We are thrilled to join the SDVoE Alliance! In addition to being part of this collaborative consortium, we look forward to taking an active role with the SDVoE Academy," said Paul Vander Plaetse, founder and CEO at VuWall. “The quality and volume of the educational content that the alliance is producing is impressive and clearly demonstrates their commitment in educating the industry and facilitating a smooth transition from AV to IT. We look forward to bringing our unique expertise in video wall management solutions and control room deployments to the SDVoE Academy.”

“VuWall holds an exciting position in the SDVoE Alliance as a member focused on a software application that works with any SDVoE device,” added Justin Kennington, president of the SDVoE Alliance. “Their TRx platform is completely agnostic to source types and display types, simplifying workflows for integrators, consultants, and end users, providing complete system design freedom, and eliminating stranded investments.”

MikroTik, a manufacturer of networking hardware and software focused on security and innovation, has join the SDVoE Alliance as an adopting member.

“We are happy to join the ranks of SDVoE Alliance. If we want to build a smart future for the whole world, collaboration is key. We are excited to see what new projects can emerge from this. I am sure all members of the SDVoE Alliance can benefit from our wide range of flexible 10G SFP+ and 10G copper products. The versatility of our RouterOS software is unparalleled, bound only by your creativity,” said Deniss Truhanovs, the head of innovation at MikroTik. “Let’s make something great together!”

“We welcome MikroTik to the SDVoE Alliance and look forward to collaborating with them and capitalizing on their more than 20 years’ experience in building data network infrastructures,” added Justin Kennington, president of the SDVoE Alliance. “SDVoE Alliance members and customers will no doubt appreciate the widespread availability and support for their products via distributors throughout the Americas, Europe, Africa, Asia, and Oceania.”

The SDVoE Alliance has named it 2021 board of directors made up of pro AV experts from the six steering member companies, plus Grandbeing who won this year’s election to represent the contributing member companies. 

The board of directors will be composed of Ryohei Iwasaki of IDK Corporation, Keith Kennedy of Grandbeing, Laurent Masia of Netgear, Jonathan McCune of Black Box, Bob Michaels of ZeeVee, Don Shaver of Semtech, and Clark Williams of Christie.

Justin Kennington retains his role as president of the SDVoE Alliance. Heading into its fourth year, the growing industry alliance has grown to 51 members shipping over 500 products, and more than 1300 certified SDVoE Design Partners.

“Despite the challenging year in our industry, we’ve been able to expand our audience reach with two successful in-person tradeshows—ISE in February and InfoComm Beijing in September, numerous online events, a network design help program, an online SDVoE product guide, and more than 50 new courses in SDVoE Academy,” said Kennington. “We’ve got big plans for 2021 and I’m particularly excited about SDVoE LIVE! Tuesday Talk with AV Pros, which launched Dec. 1. We start with ‘an Englishman and a Texan walk into a bar’, and end with high-quality pro AV education."

The SDVoE Alliance today announced that CommScope has joined its organization. The SDVoE Alliance is a dedicated group of pro AV manufacturers, system designers, integrators and technology managers working together to accelerate the replacement of point-to-point connectivity and the matrix switch with Ethernet-based AV distribution.

“Our adoption of SDVoE is driven by our commitment to the AV market,” said Siva Valliappan, vice president, wired product management, CommScope. “It allows us to bring our award-winning 10G and 100G platforms together with our high-performance Cat-6E cabling products to deliver a complete solution for partners looking for a single networking vendor.”

Related: The Technology Manager's Guide to the State of AV Over IP

“We welcome CommScope to the SDVoE Alliance and look forward to the value-added networking solutions their 10 Gbps ICX switch lineup provides to users of SDVoE technology,” said Justin Kennington, president of the SDVoE Alliance. “CommScope’s networking and switching expertise will provide AV professionals with much-needed guidance as they transition from traditional matrix switches to more flexible, scalable and cost-effective Ethernet-based AV deployments.”

CommScope RUCKUS ICX Switches

CommScope’s RUCKUS ICX switch portfolio is designed to simplify network setup and management, enhance security, and maximize network performance. The ICX switches are particularly well suited for SDVoE use cases due to their high port density, high performance, and low-latency capabilities, as well as software optimization to facilitate SDVoE deployment.

At InfoComm China 2020, which is taking place in Beijing from Sept. 28-30, the SDVoE Alliance and booth sponsors Danacoid, Netgear, and Semtech will present two demonstrations of SDVoE technology in booth BF4-01.

In addition to AV-over-IP signal transport, SDVoE’s platform features AV processing capabilities including built-in seamless switching, video scaling, video wall processing, multiview image compositing, audio downmixing, and USB transport. A key application of SDVoE technology is zero-latency KVM over IP for command and control installations.

Related: AVoIP Convergence: What You Need to Know

“The Chinese market has been working with AV over IP for a long time and we are thrilled to be able to present the high level of AV-over-IP performance and outstanding capabilities now available using SDVoE, particularly in-person at this prestigious event,” said Justin Kennington, president of the SDVoE Alliance. “Many of our 50 members are based in China and members are shipping over 200 interoperable products to foreign and domestic customers. We have also certified more than 1100 SDVoE Design Partners, many of whom are based in China. We look forward to continued growth and expansion in this important region.”

“For 2020, the SDVoE Alliance has focused on growth of the SDVoE ecosystem with new members in China, the establishment of a Mandarin website, the SDVoE Design Partner certification training program in Mandarin, and outreach to the wider pro AV community through support of member events and conferences,” said Alan Yang, general secretary of the SDVoE Alliance China Working Group. “As we move into 2021, a major goal will be a substantial increase in the number of SDVoE Academy training courses available in Mandarin.” 

Over the past few years, AV over IP (AVoIP) has come to dominate conversations of audiovisual signal transport. And despite forecasts that it would soon take over in terms of installations, the reality has proven slightly different. 

AV over IP is essentially the transmission of AV data over a network such as a LAN, WAN or the internet. As opposed to traditional AV environments, AV over IP refers to the use of standard network equipment to transmit and switch video and audio.

What is being discussed in the pro AV space over the last few years is the gradual replacement of traditional AV infrastructures with IP-based infrastructures. AV over IP network preserve the capabilities of a traditional AV network—the primary difference is that audio and video being transmitted on an AV over IP network are packet-based rather than circuit-based.

As more product manufacturers and AV integrators move forward with the adoption of AV over IP network solutions, IP convergence on the enterprise network becomes an important topic of AV/IT design programming discussions.

Convergence is the ability to use data, communications, and AV together, on the same network. In an alternative scenario, AV over IP is deployed on entirely segregated networks that never coexist with packets of data from an organization’s data network or communications network.

The argument to be made for putting AV devices on the network is to enable consolidated management, infrastructure cost savings and a single point of support. On the other hand, creating separate, independent AV and IT networks will maintain clear lines of demarcation between IT/AV applications and network management. 

The advantages of placing AV on IT networks can be significant, but it comes with its own potentially significant demands with regard to compression and network security.

Turning AV over IP challenges into opportunities

It is still very common for enterprise networks to have at best 1 GbE connectivity, which is a major obstacle for integrating 4K audio/video devices on the AVoIP network. Gigabit networks aren’t generally capable of passing 4K UHD 4:4:4 60Hz video without substantial compression.

1Gb vs. 10Gb Ethernet: Which is right for your AV network?

Securing AV devices on the network, keeping your converged IP network secure, is arguably one of the last major sticking points to true AV/IT convergence, and one that presents a number of challenges to tech managers striving to adhere to their organizations’ security policies.

What’s the State of AV over IP Convergence?

We reached out to experts to find out where they believe we are in the state of AVoIP convergence and what the future will bring.

According to Justin Kennington, president of the SDVoE Alliance—a nonprofit consortium of technology providers collaborating to standardize the adoption of Ethernet to transport AV signals in professional AV environments—we still have a way to go before AVoIP becomes the norm. “The easiest way to measure it is in new installs, and how many of those are AV over IP, and how many of those are traditional methods of signal extension or matrix switching?” Kennington said. “From everything I know, from looking at sales and research, we’re still in a majority matrix switch world. So in some sense, we’re not very far along at all in the AV over IP transition.”

Why We Haven’t Reached Convergence

Why is this? Kennington noted an interesting dichotomy in a recent survey his organization conducted. “Some people are saying they use AVoIP because it’s simple, and other people are saying “I’m sticking with a matrix switch because AVoIP is too complex.” This underscores what Kennington believes to be an issue of education: those who have taken the effort to learn AVoIP have discovered its benefits, while the latter survey respondents mistakenly believe it to be more complex, based on their lack of familiarity. 

“And I think what that represents is the divide between people who have actually tried it, and people who are just leery of something new and haven’t tried it yet,” Kennington said. “And that’s why there’s huge potential on the education side, because we see that as the number-one enabler of the AVoIP transition.”

IP network convergence requires that AV pros gain IT networking skills.

Besides its perceived complexity, Kennington also points to the belief that it’s more costly as a prime impediment to more widespread growth. “People believe that 10-gig Ethernet is expensive,” he said. “It frankly isn’t. You can go out and buy a 10-gigiabit ethernet switch for under $100 per port. Now compare that to your HDBaseT matrix switch at $500 or $1,000 a port.”

But the benefits of switching to IP-based transport from traditional matrix switching extend far beyond just the simplicity and cost effectiveness. Another key aspect is the flexibility it unlocks. “Now that everything is on the network, IoT and cloud connection has become another important factor to guarantee those endpoints can be managed and monitored over both a standard infrastructure and standard management tools,” said Alex Peras, technology manager of DigitalMedia at Crestron Electronics, one of the leading AV solution providers and a pioneer in IP-based AV distribution. 

“In addition, the need to control devices with standard APIs is also driving AVoIP adoption,” Peras said. “The ability to receive audio streams to and from any device using standard AES67 means that the video and audio manufacturers are working together to equip customers to build the best system for their environment and application.”

For Peras, the primary obstacle to greater adoption is concerns of security. “One of the biggest impediments is ensuring that the AVoIP products meet the demands of living on an enterprise network,” he said. “From security to interoperability to networking standards, it is critical to ensure that dealers and installers can manage and deploy the solutions successfully.” Again, this comes back to the issue of education: Peras pointed out that there are systems available that incorporate features like 802.1X, Active Directory, and JITC certification for enterprise-grade security. “[These AVoIP systems] are built to provide peace of mind to IT operators overcoming these impediments,” he said.”

What You Might Not Know

Crestron’s Peras identified an emerging trend that can help pave the way for more widespread acceptance of AVoIP: creating hybrid technologies to bridge the gap between HDBT and AVoIP for AV installers, dealers, and consultants. “This will allow existing HDBT systems to integrate with new AVoIP systems,” he said. 

SDVoE’s Kennington underlined an attribute of IP-based systems that he finds “a little frustrating” that more people don’t know: the robustness of their capabilities. “[An AVoIP system] is not just a matrix switch replacement; it’s also a video wall processor replacement; it’s also a multivew processor replacement; it’s also a KVM replacement,” he said. “And what we see from our manufacturer members is more embracing of those capabilities. And as the end users and system designers get ahold of this information, they become very excited about what’s possible.”

Reaching Convergence

It seems inevitable that a time will come when the vast majority of installs utilize AVoIP. To help realize this, Peras said that Crestron is working stronger with standards-based protocols like AES67 to ensure interoperability with audio systems and to enable cloud connectivity for manageability and scalability on all networks. And, Kennington and the SDVoE Alliance are forging a path of interoperability that’s bringing together an increasing number of manufacturers under its umbrella.

AV and IT must collaborate for successful IP network convergence.

Once again, it will take continued education to reach the ultimate goal. “I think what IT guys get nervous about is the idea of someone showing up and screwing with their network,” Kennington said. But, he’s found that those who understand what AVoIP can bring are more than eager to embrace its potential. “I’ve never met an IT guy who’s not excited about his network, and doesn’t want his network to do cool new things,” he said. “If you tell them that ‘I’ve got a killer application here and it’s going to be an excuse for you to buy more bandwidth,’ he’s going to be happy to hear that. He’s going to say, ‘Cool, I get to beef up my network and now I have a real reason for that.’”

Audio Visual over Internet Protocol (AV over IP) solutions designed for 10 gigabit Ethernet (10GbE) networks are generally used for mission-critical AV distribution and processing applications, such as neurosurgery or live event productions, where the capacity for ultra-low-latency or zero-latency and artifact-free transmission of true 4K60 (4:4:4) is essential. 

What to consider when choosing a gigabit Ethernet network

Many solutions are based on Software Defined Video over Ethernet (SDVoE), which allows system designers and integrators to develop applications to provide virtual matrix switches, KVM switches, video wall controllers, and more. SDVoE is the most widely adopted networked AV standard in the industry, delivering HDMI over Ethernet with zero latency. AV distribution and processing applications that demand zero-latency, uncompromised video can benefit from SDVoE technology, which provides an end-to-end hardware and software platform for AV extension, switching, processing, and control through advanced chipset technology, common control APIs, and interoperability.

[The Integration Guide to AVoIP]

Some solutions use HDBaseT-IP, which adds the ability to transmit signals over 10Gb Ethernet, building atop the HDBaseT standard using switches and bridges to extend to campus-wide distances, with added support for a new physical layer based on Ethernet/IP.

1Gb vs. 10Gb Ethernet: Which is right for your AV network?

We looked at 10Gb AVoIP solutions from Black Box, DVI Gear, and Extron, and here’s what we found.

Key Features for AVoIP Performance Solutions

Black Box MCX

Black Box MCX multimedia distribution and management system takes advantage of SDVoE and modern 10GbE infrastructure to allow AV and data payloads to exist on the same IT networks. The MCX ensures almost zero latency, instantaneous switching, bandwidth efficiency, and high-quality video and audio.

DVIGear DisplayNet DN-150 Series

DisplayNet DN-150 Series represents a performance and value for IP-based AV signal distribution applications. It utilizes SDVoE technology in a fanless, low-profile case that can be mounted unobtrusively nearly anywhere. These units provide independent multi-layer routing of HDMI audio and video signals, as well as IR, RS-232, Analog Audio, and 1GbE.

Extron NAV Pro AV over IP

The NAV Pro AV over IP is a solution for distribution and switching of ultra-low latency, high quality video, and audio signals over an Ethernet network at low bit rates. The highly secure NAV platform supports 802.1X port-based Network Access Control and Microsoft Active Directory to simplify user management and group authentication, helping to maintain strong security policies. In addition, NAV supports SRTP (Secure Real-Time Transport Protocol), ensuring the encryption, message authentication, and data integrity of video and data streams.

Keeping your converged IP network secure

Image Quality for AVoIP Performance Solutions

Black Box MCX

The MCX extends uncompressed 4K 60 Hz 4:4:4 video to an unlimited number of displays without sacrificing latency, video quality, or bandwidth. It overcomes source to display latency with glass-to-glass encoding and decoding that happens in real time (0.03 milliseconds). It switches between video sources in less than 100 milliseconds with no artifacts or screen blink.

DVIGear DisplayNet DN-150 Series

The DN-150 Series delivers unconstrained scalability, fast switching, zero frame latency, and zero artifact image quality—while distributing signals with resolutions of up to 4K/60p (4:4:4) with 8-bit color, or 4K/60p (4:2:2) with 10 or 12-bit color. 

Extron NAV Pro AV over IP 

The NAV Pro delivers real-time, visually lossless video over IP at resolutions up to 4K@60 Hz with 4:4:4 chroma sampling and ultra-low latency. Transmit real-time visually lossless video with ultra-low latency using Extron's wavelet-based PURE3 codec, guaranteeing exceptional user experience and response time in mission critical applications, according to the company.

AV over IP and other trends in 2020

Connectivity and Interoperability for AVoIP Performance Solutions

Black Box MCX

Through advanced chipset technology, common control APIs, and interoperability, The MCX SDVoE technology ensures zero latency and uncompromised video while offering significant cost savings along with enhanced system flexibility and scalability. It connects every essential AV distribution device to the MCX through its variety of ports: discrete RS-232, IR, secondary audio channel plus a separate 1Gb connection. It can deploy on 10Gb networks over Ethernet, fiber, or both. It also features USB support for audio, webcam, Flash drive, keyboard, and mouse.

DVIGear DisplayNet DN-150 Series

Advanced features in this web-based application enable nearly effortless integration with third-party controllers. Full interoperability with other SDVoE products, including the DisplayNet DN-200 Series, greatly enhances system flexibility. The DN-150 Series is available with either copper or optical fiber transport, enabling signal extension distances of up to 100 meters (328 feet) with Cat 6A twisted pair and up to 30 kilometers (18.6 miles) with single-mode fiber. It is highly scalable supporting systems from a few ports to hundreds—limited only to the size of the network switch.

Extron NAV Pro AV over IP 

The NAV Series offers both 1 Gbps and 10 Gbps encoders and decoders while providing full interoperability across both systems. 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. The NAV supports the AES67 standard which provides interoperability between the predominant network audio over IP products in use today, ensuring flexibility in the distribution of audio signals.

The Final Word on AVoIP Performance Solutions

A 10Gb solution eliminates any compromise between low latency, low bandwidth, and high video quality—as well as the need to maintain dual networks to support AV and IT data independently across the enterprise. Today, there is a higher cost associated with 10Gb solutions, but the prices coming down and enabling more companies to consider this pristine solution for future proofing. 

Advantages of a 1Gb Ethernet network backbone

Arich Technology, manufacturer of high-performance audio and video products, has joined the SDVoE Alliance as an adopting member. 

“At Arich, we are committed to providing complete world-class AV distribution solutions to our customers. AV over IP is definitely a requirement in the markets we serve and SDVoE is the only technology that offers 4K60 4:4:4 HDR with no picture delay, no compression, and no artifacts while taking advantage of the flexibility and cost savings of standard Ethernet,” said Hongjiang Dai, CEO at Arich. “We look forward to working with other SDVoE Alliance members in advancing the technology for uncompromised video distribution systems.”

“We welcome Arich to the SDVoE Alliance and look forward to their SDVoE product debut at ISLE,” said Justin Kennington, president of the SDVoE Alliance. “Their focus on R&D and their experience in diverse markets will undoubtedly lead to a wide variety of successful and innovative SDVoE installations.”

Black Box and IDK Corporation have joined founders Christie, Netgear, Semtech, and ZeeVee as steering members of the SDVoE Alliance. The six companies have seats on the board of directors along with Grandbeing, a contributing member, and Justin Kennington, president of the SDVoE Alliance. Heading toward its fourth year, the alliance now counts 50 members, over 200 products, and more than 1100 certified SDVoE Design Partners.

“We welcome Black Box and IDK to leadership positions in the SDVoE Alliance and look forward to the contributions they will make in their new roles as we continue to have a profound effect on the industry, driving the demise of dedicated matrix switchers and proprietary AV over IP,” said Justin Kennington, president of the SDVoE Alliance.

Related: The Technology Manager's Guide to the State of AV Over IP 

“As one of the original members of the SDVoE Alliance, IDK Corporation has made a significant investment in product innovation, engineering, marketing, and customer support for their SDVoE product line as a crucial part of their strategic roadmap,” Kennington said. “They have many high-profile projects already installed in places like Yale University’s Sterling Law Building and the European Chemicals Agency’s new facility in Helsinki. We eagerly anticipate what they will do next.”

“We are proud to elevate our status to Steering Member of the SDVoE Alliance,” said Ryohei Iwasaki, executive director, IDK Corporation. “We take our expanded responsibility to educate our customers and promote SDVoE solutions all over the world very seriously.”

Iwasaki and Kennington recently discussed IDK Corporation’s promotion to steering member of the SDVoE Alliance on camera. Watch the video here.

“Black Box has been an enthusiastic member of the SDVoE Alliance since they joined us just over a year ago,” Kennington said. “They’ve qualified members of their staff as SDVoE Design Partner trainers and have put on live in-person and virtual events for record-breaking audiences. We’re excited to collaborate on another show with them later this month.”

“SDVoE technology is by far the most promising AV technology in any AV category and Black Box is committed to leveraging our knowledge and know-how in IT infrastructure and AV to aid in the growth of the SDVoE Alliance,” said Jonathan McCune, director of product management, AV and infrastructure at Black Box. “SDVoE is the backbone of our next generation products for both AV/IT solutions and integrated AV/IoT solutions.”

McCune and Kennington recently discussed the promotion of Black Box to steering member of the SDVoE Alliance on camera. Watch the video here.

The next SDVoE Design Partner Certification LIVE training presented by Black Box and Netgear is scheduled for July 28. To learn more, click here. 

The SDVoE Alliance has launched the AV Network Design Assistance Program to help system designers, integrators, and end users implement best practices to get the most from AV network deployments in education, enterprise, healthcare, entertainment, and many more verticals.

Networking experts, based in North America, Europe, and Asia Pacific, will assist with the design of SDVoE systems to help customers realize the benefits of SDVoE-based AV-over-IP deployments.

Related: Pro AV Education Resources 

 “As the members of the SDVoE Alliance usher in the era of ‘The Matrix Transformed’ by offering zero-latency, uncompromised video performance over Ethernet, there can be the need for expert guidance in the intricacies of network design,” said Charles Dobson, director of development for the SDVoE Alliance. “We are pleased to be able to offer assistance, whether that means initial consultation at the start of a project, final design review before deployment, or anything in between. Help is just an email away.”