The rapid growth of audiovisual systems and adoption of digital technologies in various industries has brought both opportunities and challenges with regards to design and infrastructure. While enhanced capabilities enable new experiences, complex networked systems require careful planning and implementation to ensure reliability, performance and security. The AVIXA (Audiovisual and Integrated Experience Association) aims to support professionals through guidelines and standards that promote quality designs aligned with industry needs. This blog provides an overview of key AVIXA best practices related to AV design and network infrastructure.
Overview of AVIXA and Standards Development
AVIXA is the leading trade association serving the professional audiovisual industry. Their mission is to advance the industry by connecting manufacturers, integrators and consultants. One core function of AVIXA is to develop voluntary consensus standards through a committee process involving technical experts. These standards specify requirements, recommend procedures and offer guidance on a wide range of AV topics. While not mandatory, adherence to AVIXA standards helps ensure interoperability and quality across the industry.
Some of the key standards developed by AVIXA that relate to design and infrastructure include:
ANSI/INFOCOMM 1M-2018 - Audiovisual Systems Design and Coordination Processes
ANSI/INFOCOMM 2M-2018 - Audio Coverage Uniformity in Enclosed Listener Areas
ANSI/INFOCOMM 3M-2018 - Networked Audio-Visual Equipment: Minimum Functional Requirements
ANSI/INFOCOMM 4M-2018 -Audiovisual Systems Performance Verification
Following these consensus-based standards helps AV professionals deliver systems that meet specifications, end user needs and evolving technological capabilities.
Network Infrastructure Planning
Proper network infrastructure is essential for smoothly operating AV systems that incorporate digital technologies and networked devices. Key considerations for network planning include:
Bandwidth Requirements
Modern audiovisual content like 4K video requires significant bandwidth that must be accounted for in infrastructure design. Bandwidth needs will grow over the life of a system, so future-proofing is important. Carefully calculate bandwidth consumption of all presently planned and reasonably foreseeable future uses.
Topology and Connectivity
Decide on an optimal physical network topology like star, ring or mesh based on the layout and usage of spaces. Consider wired or wireless connectivity strategies. Develop a scalable design that allows for expansion while maintaining performance.
Wireless Spectrum Management
If using WiFi, choose appropriate wireless channels to avoid interference. Consider dedicated or hybrid wireless solutions as needed based on bandwidth, coverage and security needs.
Signal Distribution
Determining how to distribute audio, video and control signals is an important design decision. Consider networked distribution using Ethernet along with dedicated cabling as needed to support specialized devices.
Network Management and Monitoring
Plan for tools to monitor network health and traffic to support proactive management. Secure remote access helps with maintenance and troubleshooting.
System Redundancy and Failover
In mission critical applications, incorporate network redundancy and automated failover to backup systems to ensure uptime.
Following AVIXA standards and best practices helps ensure network infrastructure is robustly designed and implemented to serve current and future AV system needs reliably.
AV System Design Fundamentals
With network infrastructure properly addressed, focus shifts to designing the AV system itself. Several principles outlined in AVIXA standards guide this process:
User Experience Focus
Start by understanding end user needs to develop a design that enhances the intended experience whether it be education, collaboration or entertainment. Conduct user experience testing.
Future Proof Flexibility
Incorporate modularity, expandability and IT-friendly components to allow for system upgrades without full replacement. Use open system architectures.
Component Selection and Specification
Referencing AVIXA performance guidelines, carefully select components based on technical requirements and budget. Develop comprehensive equipment specifications and procurement documentation.
Signal Routing and Distribution
Design optimal routing of audio, video, control and other signals from source to end points using methods determined during infrastructure planning.
System Integration and Programming
Develop integration strategies to seamlessly combine components into a cohesive system. Program and configure for desired functionality and automation.
Verification, Testing and Calibration
Perform thorough verification, testing and calibration procedures per AVIXA and manufacturer guidelines to ensure system meets design criteria and end user needs. Obtain third party commissioning as needed.
Documentation and Training
Develop a complete set of documentation covering design, configuration, operation and maintenance. Provide end user training and support materials.
Adhering to these design best practices helps AV professionals deliver integrated systems that serve end users reliably in optimized environments. Following industry standards also supports compliance, customer satisfaction and competitive advantage.
Information and AV System Security
With networked AV now the norm, security must be a major consideration from the start of any project. Key recommendations from AVIXA include:
Conduct a Risk Assessment
Perform a thorough risk analysis to understand vulnerabilities and appropriately prioritize security efforts based on sensitivity of data, systems and environments involved.
Access Controls and Authorization
Implement user authentication, permissions and authorization controls to regulate access at device, network and system levels. Use secure protocols like SSH, SFTP, HTTPS etc.
Encryption
Apply strong encryption for critical system functions, connectivity and data transmission to prevent unauthorized interception or tampering. Choose solutions certified for intended use.
Segmentation and Isolation
Use network segmentation, VLANs and firewalls to isolate sensitive AV devices and systems from general access. Consider demilitarized zones (DMZ).
Patch Management
Establish rigorous processes for installing firmware updates, OS patches and security fixes on all system components in a timely manner.
Activity Monitoring and Logging
Deploy tools to continuously monitor systems for anomalies, attacks and policy violations. Maintain detailed logs for incident response and forensics.
Incident Response Planning
Develop standardized response procedures to contain and remediate security incidents minimizing impact. Conduct regular drills and updates.
Physical Security
Employ physical security best practices to restrict access to devices and infrastructure installed in facilities.
Following AVIXA guidelines helps professionals implement security conscious designs securing sensitive AV deployments from modern cyber threats.
Conclusion
AV systems have become critical for experiences across various environments. Utilizing industry standards promotes best design, operation and security practices supporting reliability, performance, customer satisfaction and regulatory compliance. AVIXA consensus standards and recommendations offer comprehensive guidance for AV professionals to develop high quality, future ready infrastructure and system designs aligned with industry needs. Adherence to such guidelines ensures proficiency while supporting the ongoing positive transformation of digital experiences through advanced audiovisual technologies.
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