AV Over IP Explained

AV over IP is a powerful trend driving the transition to digital. While it’s been in the conversation for several years now, its adoption has not been as rapid as predicted.

However, AV over IP was one of the most impactful technology trends of 2020, and it’s a powerful component of the analog-digital switch. Additionally, it provides several key advantages over traditional AP, which is why professionals recommend it.

In today’s post, we will dive into AP over IP and when it’s the smart choice.

What is AV Over IP?

AV over IP is used to transmit audio and visual data over a network (like the internet, LAN, or WAN). Traditional AV systems relied on dedicated AV infrastructure to transmit audio and visual sources across rooms, buildings, and campuses. The traditional format works well for small systems, but it poses limitations for scalability.

The purpose of AV over IP is to create a scalable environment, and it relies on standard network equipment for transmission, control, and switching of audio and visual signals. The result is a more flexible AV environment that boosts efficiency and reduces overhead costs.

How Does Video over IP Work?

AV over IP is a streaming infrastructure, with audio and visual streaming over the network. This system relies on encoders at each destination device. A standard Ethernet switch connects the decoder and encoder at each source. This means that you can connect as many encoders and decoders as your network design can support, making it easier and less expensive to scale up.

The components of AV over IP include:

• Cabling. You can use a 1Gb Av over IP solution if you already have Cat 5e cabling. If designing from scratch, opt for a higher grade cable or fiber optic cable.
• Encode and decoder. The encoders and decoders you use will determine if you have a proprietary or open-source system.
• Network switch. The switch gathers your signal from the encoder and distributes it over your local area network. It can be a standard switch or one specifically designed for Av over IP applications.

Currently, AV over IP solutions are not fully standardized and will transmit audio-video differently on different networks. As this is a relatively new technology, the industry compliance agencies are still working to create compliance standards.

Advantages of AP over IP

Some key advantages of AP over IP include:

• Scalable. The network-based system can handle many devices and is not limited to physical ports on switches. You can manage large numbers of multi-point displays from one single investment.
• Easy installation. Since AV over IP uses your existing network infrastructure, it requires less cabling and only one cable type. It does not require point-to-point connections, which means it’s faster and easier to make changes.
• Cost-effective. You can use your existing networks and equipment if you have a low enough bandwidth requirement. It’s also far more affordable to scale than with traditional networks.
• Security. Employ the same methods as your IT department and easily apply encryption technologies.
• The distance of transmission. Using fiber optic or copper cables, AV over IP can transmit over a greater distance
• Combine multiple types of content (photos, videos, scrolling text, web content, and more).
• Superbly handle bandwidth requirements via compression.
• Remote control.
• Dense routing opportunities.

When to Use AP over IP

While AP over IP offers several advantages, it won’t always make sense. Here are the cases when AV over IP will be the most beneficial:

• For future expansive possibilities, if you may expand your network in the future, consider AV over IP.
• For the transformation of existing technology for AP over IP, which helps save on infrastructure spending

Some examples of beneficial AP over IP systems include:

• Sports stadiums broadcasting HD signals in real-time.
• Digital signage.
• Hospitals using AP over IP to educate staff and patients.
• Employee training.
• News anchor streaming.
• Multimedia with fresh content to engage customers.

Disadvantages of Video over IP

AP over IP is very beneficial in many cases, but it also has its drawbacks. Some of the disadvantages of AP over IP include:

• Slowdowns when running multiple streams for Ethernet communications (delays in live broadcasts). You can remedy this with a dedicated network for video distribution.
• Security concerns. Many are worried about the potential security risks of AV over IP, but those risks can be mitigated by smart setup. For example, ensure your endpoints have password protection. Many manufacturers now add encryption to their devices as well.
• Compliance standards. Manufacturers are still working to develop compliance standards.

A Trusted AP over IP Solution Provider

For reliable, secure AP over IP, you need an experienced solution provider that’s able to meet your needs. The most knowledgeable providers will do all they can to integrate your existing systems. For AP over IP solutions that you can count on, look no further than Teksetra. Learn more about our AV services and how we can help your business.