Enhance Your AV Projects with Professional Audio Solutions

As a leading distributor of audiovisual equipment, Exertis Almo understands the critical role that high-quality audio plays in creating effective and immersive environments. Whether you’re equipping corporate meeting rooms, classrooms, chain restaurants, or massive public arenas, the right audio setup can make all the difference. Our goal is to provide comprehensive professional audio solutions that enhance your projects for seamless integration. Let’s explore some of the technology.

The Importance of Professional Audio in Public Spaces

Clear and precise audio is essential to ensuring that every message is delivered effectively, whether it’s a business presentation, a lecture, or a live performance. Poor audio quality can lead to misunderstandings, disengagement, and a lack of impact. That’s why it’s crucial to invest in high-quality audio equipment tailored to your specific project needs.

Tailored Solutions for Different Spaces

Concert Venues and Sports Arenas

production audio for concert venuesIn large-scale venues like concert halls, sports arenas, and theaters, delivering powerful and production-quality audio is critical to creating an immersive experience for the audience. These environments require robust audio systems capable of handling high SPL (sound pressure levels) and wide frequency ranges, ensuring that every note and word is delivered with clarity and impact.

Utilization of advanced line array systems and subwoofers designed to deliver consistent and powerful sound across large spaces is essential. These high-powered speaker systems provide excellent coverage, ensuring that every seat in the venue experiences the same high-quality audio.

Bars and Restaurants

restaurant bar audio zonesCreating the right audio environment in bars and restaurants is crucial for setting the mood and enhancing the customer experience. Whether it’s background music, live entertainment, or clear announcements, the audio system must deliver consistently high-quality sound without overwhelming the space.

Ambient music ensures a pleasant and even distribution of sound, enhancing the atmosphere without overpowering conversations. Use a combination of strategically placed speakers and amplifiers to deliver smooth, even sound throughout the venue.

Bars and restaurants often have different areas with distinct audio needs, such as dining rooms, bar areas, and outdoor spaces. Zone control systems allow for precise audio management in each area, ensuring that the sound levels and types of audio content are appropriate.

Classrooms

campus classrooms and lecture hall audioIn educational environments, audio plays a crucial role in facilitating effective learning and engagement. Our solutions for classrooms are designed to enhance both teacher-student interactions and the overall learning experience.

Classrooms often require versatile audio setups that can accommodate various teaching styles and activities. We provide portable speaker systems and wireless microphone setups that can be easily adjusted to suit lectures, group discussions, or multimedia presentations.

To ensure every student hears clearly, regardless of where they are seated, integrate sound enhancement systems. These include ceiling or wall-mounted speakers with optimized placement and digital signal processing (DSP) to enhance voice clarity and reduce ambient noise.

Meeting Rooms

corporate conference room audioMeeting rooms are vital hubs for collaboration and communication within any organization. The quality of audio in these spaces can significantly impact the effectiveness of meetings and presentations. Our tailored audio solutions for meeting rooms focus on delivering crystal-clear sound and seamless integration with other AV technologies.

Discreet audio solutions can be provided with a range of ceiling-mounted and in-wall speakers that blend seamlessly into the room’s design, ensuring a clean and professional appearance. These speakers deliver high-quality sound without visual distraction, allowing participants to focus on the content.

Sennheiser microphonesOur selection of boundary microphones, gooseneck microphones, and wireless lapel microphones ensure that every speaker is heard clearly, regardless of their position in the room. These advanced microphone systems are designed to pick up voices accurately while minimizing background noise.

Partner with Us for Exceptional Audio

At Exertis Almo, we don’t just provide products; we offer solutions. Our team of experts is here to help you select the right equipment for your specific needs and ensure that your audio setup is optimized for the space. With our extensive range of products and commitment to quality, we are your trusted partner in delivering exceptional audio experiences.

Contact us today to learn more about how we can help you create the ideal audio environment for your next project.

Robert Voorhees

Exertis Almo’s Pro Audio Category Manager

Rob Voorhees | CTS, CTP, DSCE, CTNS, Dante

Director of Business Development

Supported Product Category: Pro Audio & Business Comm Services

Revisiting ADA Mounting Requirements

Recently, I saw where a manufacturer provided the following installation requirements for web and PTZ cameras: “Mount cameras at a height between 15 inches and 48 inches from the floor to comply with ADA standards for operable parts” and that cameras and their mounts should not protrude more than 4 inches from the wall.

Wut?

So I can’t locate a camera in between two wall-mounted displays because that will be higher than 48 inches AFF? Plus, a typical PTZ camera sticks out more than 4 inches once it’s on a mount and has cables hanging out the back. Do I need to go back and place all of my cameras in recessed wall boxes?

This is where I love to go to the source materials rather than second-hand interpretations. I read things like the ADA Standard, the NEC as well as other codes, standards and industry reference sources.

The ADA Standards for Accessible Design are found here: https://www.ada.gov/law-and-regs/design-standards/2010-stds/ so you can read it for yourself or follow along.

MOUNTING HEIGHTS

It’s always good to look at the definitions in a Standard. Let’s look at the definition of an Operable Part and an Element in the ADA Standard.

Operable Part. A component of an element used to insert or withdraw objects, or to activate, deactivate, or adjust the element.

Element. An architectural or mechanical component of a building, facility, space, or site.

This includes things like light switches, electrical receptacles, environmental and appliance controls, security, intercom systems, etc. Prudence would dictate this also includes the control panels and signal connections for an audiovisual system as well as any loadable media like SD cards and thumb drives.

Does even an able-bodied person need access to a PTZ Camera? What “Operable Parts” are normally accessed on a camera? None. It is accessed and controlled either through a remote or a control system, so I don’t see a camera qualifying as an Operable Part or an Element.

However, we do see the height restriction requirements for Operable Parts in 309 of the ADA Standard.

309 Operable Parts
309.3 Height. Operable parts shall be placed within one or more of the reach ranges specified in 308.

And 309 of the Standard refers us to 308 of the Standard for the reach ranges.

ADA 308.2.1 and 308.3.1 reveal the mounting height requirements for unobstructed forward or side reach from a wheelchair.

ADA-308.2.1 & ADA-308.3.1 diagrams

So while cameras should be mounted at eye height (48 inches AFF) to maintain eye contact with the far side, I can mount a camera higher on the wall in between two displays if that’s the best compromise given ceiling height and display location on the wall.

PROTRUSION LIMITS

204 of the ADA Standard tells us about Protruding Objects.

204 Protruding Objects
204.1 General. Protruding objects on circulation paths shall comply with 307

So we need to know what a circulation path is and we also find that in the definitions.

Circulation Path. An exterior or interior way of passage provided for pedestrian travel, including but not limited to, walks, hallways, courtyards, elevators, platform lifts, ramps, stairways, and landings.

So the protrusion limits apply to circulation paths. Does this definition of a Circulation Path include a classroom or meeting room? The definition is about passageways and I don’t see “rooms” called out as a being a circulation path.

Protrusion Limits for circulation paths are found in 307 of the Standard.

ada-307.2307.2 Protrusion Limits.

Objects with leading edges more than 27 inches (685 mm) and not more than 80 inches (2030 mm) above the finish floor or ground shall protrude 4 inches (100 mm) maximum horizontally into the circulation path

So I’m okay with a display or camera protruding out more than 4 inches in the front of a classroom, meeting room or conference room.

I don’t think however, that I would want a projector or camera hanging lower than 80 inches AFF in the middle of a room or even a display on a swing arm hanging lower than 80 inches AFF from a side wall. I also might not wish to exceed the 4 in. protrusion limit along the side and rear walls even though it’s not required.

It’s interesting to see that a leading mount manufacturer says of one of their display mounts, “Low-profile 1″ (25 mm) depth facilitates ADA compliance for typical AV design requirements.” “Facilitates” does not equal compliance.

Even the facilitating mount can run afoul of ADA if the mount/display combo protrudes more than 4 inches from the wall in a Circulation Path.

Can you get around the 4-in. protrusion limitation? Sure. Build in a permanent credenza below the wall-mounted device. Problem solved.

ASSISTIVE LISTENING SYSTEMS

Something that is often overlooked in seeking ADA compliance is the availability of an Assistive Listening System.

219.2 Required Systems. In each assembly area where audible communication is integral to the use of the space, an assistive listening system shall be provided.

EXCEPTION: Other than in courtrooms, assistive listening systems shall not be required where audio amplification is not provided.

The definition of an Assembly Area is quite broad, and you see that when you read the Standard.

SUMMARY

Really, ADA compliance is not so much about the equipment as it is about the equipment’s implementation. The only exception that comes to mind is a lectern/presentation station that has a motor for height adjustment. Components of a Hearing Assistance System are not “ADA Compliant” in and of themselves. (Except that an ALS receiver must have a 1/8 in. mono jack to be a compliant receiver. See 706.2.) However, they can be part of an ADA-compliant system.

I hope this has helped separate fact from fiction. If you need more information about products that will help keep you and your clients ADA-compliant on a project, reach out to us here at Exertis Almo. We would be happy to help.

Want to learn more? Check out “The Modern Meeting Room” blog for more insights on audiovisual design.

Tom Kehr

About the Author

Tom Kehr

CTS-D, CTS-I, Network+, LEED Green Associate, ISF-C, ATD Master Trainer

In-House System Designer and Trainer

Supported Applications: System Design

Enhancing Audio Quality for Effective Collaboration

Conference Room Acoustics

In the dynamic world of professional audio-video solutions, the importance of clear and immersive audio experiences in conference rooms cannot be overstated. Effective collaboration hinges not only on high-definition visuals but also on crystal-clear sound quality. As resellers and integrators, understanding and implementing cutting-edge solutions for optimizing conference room acoustics can significantly elevate the overall meeting experience for our clients.

Acoustics play a crucial role in how well audio is transmitted and received within a conference room environment. Factors such as room size, shape, and materials used in construction can affect sound quality. Poor acoustics, characterized by echoes, reverberations, and background noise, can hinder communication and reduce meeting productivity.

Recent advancements in acoustic treatment and technology have revolutionized how we address these challenges. Acoustic panels and diffusers are designed to absorb and diffuse sound energy which helps to enhance speech intelligibility and clarity. Integrating these solutions into conference room design can create an environment where every word is heard with precision, fostering ideal communication among meeting participants.

Video Cameras Track Speakers

Positional tracking is a sophisticated technique essential for determining the precise position and orientation of objects, including cameras and users, within three-dimensional space. It operates through a series of steps:

First, sensors like accelerometers, gyroscopes, and depth cameras gather data on movement, detailing acceleration, rotation, and depth. Next, this sensor data is fused to estimate the object’s exact position and orientation using algorithms that interpret changes over time. The system then identifies feature points in the environment, such as visual markers or distinctive elements, which are matched with a reference map to refine tracking accuracy. Continuously updated estimates of position and orientation are recalibrated via a feedback loop, correcting any deviations to maintain accuracy.

speaker framing In video conferencing systems, positional tracking technology is pivotal for enhancing auto-tracking and speaker framing capabilities. Auto-tracking enables cameras to autonomously follow speakers as they move within a room, utilizing visual cues like face detection and body movement to adjust camera orientation. This feature ensures that speakers remain within view. Speaker framing, on the other hand, focuses on centrally positioning the active speaker in the camera’s frame, particularly beneficial in multi-participant settings. By analyzing audio cues, such as voice activity detection and microphone array data, conferencing systems triangulate the speaker’s location using techniques like time delay of arrival (TDOA) and adaptive beamforming. This dual approach, combining audio source localization with visual tracking, ensures comprehensive coverage and accurate framing during video conferences.

The integration of video conferencing platforms with advanced audio solutions is vital to delivering a desirable collaboration experience. Compatibility with leading platforms allows for easy integration and enhances user accessibility. Features such as automatic speaker tracking, echo cancellation, and spatial audio technology further improve the immersive experience, making remote participants feel as if they are in the same room.

Effective Collaboration Solutions

As we strive to create optimal meeting environments, solutions like Barco’s ClickShare play a crucial role in simplifying content sharing and enhancing collaboration. ClickShare seamlessly integrates with existing AV setups, allowing users to wirelessly share content from any device with just the click of a button. Its intuitive interface and robust security features make it a preferred choice for facilitating productive meetings across different platforms.

Barco has introduced ClickShare Bar Pro, an all-in-one solution that sets new standards in meeting room technology. This innovative device combines seamless content sharing with advanced audio and video capabilities. Featuring group framing, speaker framing, and tracking functionalities, ensuring participants are always in focus and perfectly framed during meetings. Moreover, it is equipped with six beamforming MEMS microphones, offering superior echo and background noise cancellation. This ensures crystal-clear audio quality, enabling natural and effortless communication even in challenging acoustic environments.

By integrating these cutting-edge features into a single device, Barco enhances the efficiency and effectiveness of collaboration in modern meeting spaces. The ClickShare Bar Pro delivers an unparalleled meeting experience boosting engagement and productivity.

Future of Conference Room Design

In conclusion, the future of conference room design lies in embracing innovative solutions that prioritize audio quality alongside visual clarity. By staying abreast of evolving trends in acoustic treatment and adaptive audio technology, resellers and integrators can offer tailored solutions that meet the unique needs of their clients. Whether optimizing small huddle rooms or expansive boardrooms, investing in advanced audio solutions ensures that every meeting is productive, collaborative, and engaging.

At Exertis Almo, we are committed to supporting you in delivering superior AV solutions that exceed client expectations. Contact us today to explore how our comprehensive range of products and expertise can help you transform conference room environments into centers of seamless collaboration and communication.

Nathan Dwelly BDM
About the Author

Nathan Dwelly

BDM – Brand Specialist

Supported Manufacturers: Barco ClickShare

Nothing Beats a Wire

“The new pastor would like to have hardwired microphones instead of wireless for the following locations…”

What a refreshing request: hardwired microphones.  Yes, I’m aware that wireless cleans up the stage and wireless certainly looks better on camera, especially since so many churches are now streaming their services each week.

But do I really need a wireless for a lectern or pulpit?  Or for a vocalist on a piano or even the vocal for a guitar player who’s not moving around? 

Wired MicrophonesI’ve even seen an increase in requests for wireless for city council chambers.  Read that again.  For a city council.  They sit behind a council table.  Your typical local council is probably well known for being intractable and immovable so I can’t fathom the need for a wireless in that application.  Hardwired mics only.

Remember when our UHF wireless microphones had to vacate the 600 MHz spectrum not all that long ago?  You couldn’t simply tune to a new frequency, you had to replace the entire system.  Plus, there’s the cost and maintenance of batteries.  If you’re using rechargeable batteries, you need to make sure the transmitters are placed back in the charging station after use.  And when those batteries no longer hold a charge, there’s proper disposal issues and you need to purchase new batteries.  The more things the end user has to remember, the more they may be overlooked.

If you’re using UHF wireless, you need a frequency band that works in your specific area, and you need to coordinate frequencies with the other UHF wireless units that you have (microphones, IEMs, intercom).  If you have multiple receivers, you’re looking at antenna distribution, remote antennas, coax runs, etc.  If you’re using DECT at 1.9 GHz or using 2.4 GHz, there’s the possibility of interference from other unlicensed devices. 

What maintenance is required with a hardwired microphone?  I’ll wait….

The late Ray Rayburn is famous for saying, “A wireless microphone is just a very expensive replacement for a 25 ft. mic cable.”

If you’re using quality mic cable and name-brand XLR connectors and wrap your cables properly, a good mic cable will last decades on stage.  A few years ago, I was assisting a friend on a gig outside of Nashville and did a double take when I saw the same mic cables that I had soldered together and labeled almost three decades ago.  How did I know these were my original cables?  By the brand of cable and connectors used, and by the wire markers from my Ideal wire marker booklet that I saw under the clear heat shrink.  The cables still had my RipTie cable wraps!  He was now the third owner of these cables.  Wow.

As far as mic cables, you might as well make your own.  Even if you buy a quality premade, you still need to pull the connector off one end so you can label them.  Use a numbering scheme that combines cable identification with length so you don’t have to chase cables on stage.  Secure those cable IDs under clear heat shrink and finish the job with a permanent cable tie on the male end of each XLR cable.  (You do know how to solder, don’t you?)

Consider also what you’re either getting or giving up, in the choice of hardwired or wireless.  For the price of a lower-cost wireless system, you can buy a magnificent-sounding hardwired microphone.

Something that I think has been lost with the increase in less expensive wireless microphones: sound quality.  While those with real budgets can afford a higher-end wireless sporting a high-quality mic capsule on top, everyone else has been settling for what I would consider lower-end capsules just for the supposed convenience of going wireless.

I think it’s time we rediscover the joy of listening to a really good wired microphone.

Excellent microphones and labeled quality cables will be some of your most reliable friends ever and it will never need batteries.

THE EXCEPTION

BaptistryThere is only one absolute rule when not to use a hardwired microphone: the baptistry.  Never, ever place a hardwired microphone within reach of a baptistry.  In the mid-2000s, Reverend Kyle Lake of University Baptist Church in Waco, TX was electrocuted as his hand made contact with a hardwired microphone connected to the church’s audio system.  It wasn’t the fault of the correctly installed audio system or phantom power, it was a short circuit that had developed in the baptismal water heater.  The investigation revealed that the older water heater wasn’t up to current electrical codes and it lacked a ground wire.  When Reverend Lake touched the microphone, he became an inadvertent electrical path as the electricity sought a way to return to its source.  If you need a wireless, the baptistry is the perfect application.

If you need help selecting the right magnificent hardwired (or wireless) mic for your application, let us know here at Exertis Almo.  We would love to help you rediscover the wonderful sound of a wire.

Tom Kehr

About the Author

Tom Kehr

CTS-D, CTS-I, Network+, LEED Green Associate, ISF-C, ATD Master Trainer

In-House System Designer and Trainer

Supported Applications: System Design

ProAV Network Switches: A Harmonious Blend of Technology and Performance

The World of ProAV Network Switches

In the realm of professional audio-visual (Pro AV) technology, where every decibel matters and every pixel counts, the unseen heroes orchestrating seamless operations are network switches. Often overlooked but absolutely crucial, these silent conductors form the backbone of modern AV systems, ensuring that audio and video signals flow flawlessly, without hiccups or delays. Let’s dive into the world of network switches in professional AV and uncover the magic they bring to the stage.

AV in ConcertsImagine a large-scale conference, a live concert, or a corporate presentation. Behind the scenes, there’s a complex network of AV equipment working tirelessly to deliver an immersive experience to the audience. At the heart of this network lies the network switch, serving as a central hub that connects various AV devices such as cameras, microphones, speakers, displays, and media servers.

Performance and Reliability

In Pro AV environments, reliability is non-negotiable. Network switches designed for this industry prioritize uptime and stability, utilizing advanced features like Quality of Service (QoS), redundancy protocols, and multicast support to ensure that audio and video streams are transmitted without interruption. Whether it’s a high-definition video feed or multi-channel audio, these switches deliver uncompromising performance, allowing professionals to focus on their craft without worrying about technical glitches.

Bandwidth and Throughput

One of the key challenges in AV networking is managing bandwidth and throughput effectively. With the rise of ultra-high-definition (UHD) content and immersive audio formats, the demand for data-intensive applications has surged. Network switches tailored for professional AV environments are equipped with high-speed ports, advanced traffic management capabilities, and ample throughput to handle the demands of modern multimedia.

Many AV installations require real-time streaming and low-latency communication, making ultra-fast switching crucial. With features like low latency forwarding and buffering, specialized network switches minimize delay and jitter, ensuring that audio and video signals reach their destination with minimal latency, preserving synchronization and enhancing the overall user experience.

Management and Control

In the world of professional AV, flexibility and control are paramount. Network switches offer sophisticated management options, allowing administrators to configure, monitor, and troubleshoot the network with ease. From intuitive web-based interfaces to powerful command-line tools, these switches provide a range of management capabilities tailored to the needs of AV professionals.
Netgear M4250 AV Switches
Furthermore, network switches play a crucial role in network security, safeguarding sensitive audiovisual content from unauthorized access or tampering. With support for advanced security features such as Access Control Lists (ACLs), port security, and encryption, these switches ensure that data remains confidential, and integrity is maintained throughout the AV ecosystem.

Scalability and Adaptability

As AV installations grow in complexity and scale, network infrastructure must evolve to accommodate changing requirements. Network switches offer scalability and adaptability, allowing organizations to expand their AV systems seamlessly without sacrificing performance or reliability. Whether it’s adding new endpoints, integrating emerging technologies, or supporting larger audiences, these switches provide the flexibility to scale up or down as needed.

Moreover, network switches in professional AV are designed to integrate with other components of the ecosystem, such as audio processors, video matrix switchers, and control systems. Through standards-based protocols like Dante, AVB, and AES67, these switches enable interoperability and seamless communication between different devices, creating a unified and cohesive AV environment.

Power over Ethernet and Future Innovations

Let’s also not forget about Power over Ethernet (PoE) for supplying power to the devices in our AV system.  Many AV devices, such as IP cameras, wireless access points, and digital signage displays, rely on Power over Ethernet (PoE) from switches for power and data transmission. Ensure that the network switch provides adequate PoE support, including the required power budget and compatibility with PoE standards such as IEEE 802.3af, IEEE 802.3at (PoE+), or IEEE 802.3bt (PoE++), depending on the power needs of the connected devices. (See PoE reference guide below)

Switcher PanelAs technology continues to evolve, network switches will continue to play a pivotal role in shaping the future of professional AV, enabling new possibilities and pushing the boundaries of what is possible in terms of performance, reliability, and scalability. One network switch manufacturer leading the charge in the Pro AV industry is Netgear. They provide purpose-built layer 3 switches with preconfigured network protocols like IGMP snooping, multicast routing, and fast leave mechanisms, to optimize multicast traffic delivery and conserve network bandwidth. Netgear also continues to develop switches that include certified profile setup configurations including NDI, SRT, Dante, AES, AVB and many others for audio/video/lighting/control. Adding a simplified custom AV user interface that doesn’t require an IT administrator to configure, and generous PoE power for all AV components in the system is a grand slam for Pro AV integrators.

Power over Ethernet (PoE) is categorized into different classes based on the power levels they can deliver. These classes are defined by the IEEE 802.3 standard. Here’s a breakdown of the main PoE classes and their differences:

1. IEEE 802.3af (PoE, Class 1-3):

    • Power Output: Provides up to 15.4 watts of DC power per port.
    • Application: Suitable for low-power devices such as IP phones, wireless access points, many encoders and decoders, and IP cameras.
    • Classification: Devices are classified into three power classes (Class 1-3) based on their power requirements. Class 1 devices require the least power, while Class 3 devices can consume up to 15.4 watts.

2. IEEE 802.3at (PoE+):

    • Power Output: Provides up to 30 watts of DC power per port.
    • Application: Designed for higher-power devices such as PTZ cameras, video conferencing systems, and access control systems.
    • Classification: PoE+ introduces a higher power class (Class 4) to support devices with greater power demands. Class 4 devices can consume up to 30 watts.

3. IEEE 802.3bt (PoE++):

    • Power Output: Provides up to 90 watts of DC power per port.
    • Application: Intended for high-power devices such as pan-tilt-zoom (PTZ) cameras, high-performance wireless access points, and IoT devices with integrated sensors and actuators.
    • Classification: PoE++ introduces four power classes (Class 5-8) to support a wide range of devices with varying power requirements. Class 5 devices can consume up to 45 watts, Class 6 up to 60 watts, Class 7 up to 75 watts, and Class 8 up to 90 watts.

*The primary difference between these PoE classes lies in the amount of power they can deliver to connected devices. As the class number increases, so does the maximum power output per port.

**It’s essential for users to choose the appropriate PoE class based on the power requirements of their devices to ensure optimal performance and compatibility.

***Don’t forget to calculate the system’s Total Power Budget when factoring in PoE requirements.

Curious about Programming Services? Check out this conversation between Tom Kehr and Drew Metherall.
Eric Olson headshot
About the Author

Eric Olson​​ | CTS, DSCE

Senior BDM – Technical Lead

Supported Manufacturers: Netgear, LG, Lumens and Atlona

Getting to Know Programming Services: A Conversation with Tom Kehr & Drew Metherall

In a recent video, Exertis Almo’s Tom Kehr, Systems Designer and Trainer, and Drew Metherall, Programming Manager, discuss different programming topics and how you can position these services to give your business an edge.

Let’s dive into their conversation with key points mentioned in their discussion.

Control and DSP Programming Services

With decades of experience, Kehr and Metherall acknowledge the long and unique history of programming in the AV industry and the complex work completed by programmers.

“There’s a user interface, be it a button panel or touch panel, and often a lot of sensors, and you’re expected to tie all this together to make the experience better for the end user,” explained Kehr.

Kehr begins the discussion with a question.

“What makes Pro AV control so different and unique from a residential system?”

AMX AV control systemMetherall attributes this difference to the added flexibility with Pro AV control and aspects like macros, which you can build and interface with various products, sensors, temperature controls, and lighting, noting that residential universal remotes have limitations in what you can do and are more of a configurable system whereas Pro AV is actual programming of a device.

Regarding the products not distributed by Exertis Almo, Metherall explains that there are some systems that Exertis Almo will not program if they are not up to the level of necessity required in Pro AV.

When discussing the different systems, Kehr brings up the topic of certifications and training within programming.

“I held an AMX certification for 20 years. One of our programmers has a Crestron Silver Level. Our new programmer coming has a Platinum Level. We all hold certifications in Extron, we’ve gotten most of our certification for Q-SYS,” Metherall said. “And if we don’t have [a certification], we’re getting there.”

Kehr elaborates on Metherall’s point, explaining that there is always room for ongoing training.

Kehr and Metherall then discuss the advantages of using Ethernet for an audio-visual control system, explaining that although there are some challenges when mixing audio, video, and control on the same network, you can have a low voltage network company to come in to do all the wiring, since it’s all network, simplifying installation.

Another challenge exists in making changes to an existing control system, as many control files are compiled files. Kehr and Metherall explain that if the client has the original code, or they are willing to invest in a rewrite, Exertis Almo can do that work.

“During an installation, we see the bill of materials, and we have a system schematic or a flow diagram,” Kehr said. “What other documentation do you need as you begin to put the program together?”

In response, Metherall explains that he usually requires a Scope of Work or a Programming Narrative. We typically need a Bill of Materials and a signal flow. While Exertis Almo does not need all these just to do a quote, but once we get into the work, we definitely want all that information.

Kehr mentions that a lot of programming work is event-driven and poses the question, “What can you incorporate into a system for easier use?”

Metherall notes that most programmers utilize a video sync signal off some of the digital or Ethernet-based video transmitters. “We can take that signal and have the system turn on and route to that source without having to even touch a button,” he said.

Metherall elaborates, explaining that many programmers also use sensors on touch panels. Additionally, timers are a frequent addition to a system, allowing the system to turn off after a certain time or turn on at a prescribed time.

Kehr and Metherall also discuss decreased incorporation of voice assistance, acknowledging that these capabilities, like Siri or Alexa, are more present in residential systems.

The duo concludes their conversation by encouraging listeners to learn more by attending the industry-leading expo, E4 Experience.

The discussion offers a detailed look into the world of Exertis Almo Programming Services, with valuable insight on how to expand your reach. Watch the full conversation on YouTube.

If you learned something from this blog and video, you may also enjoy learning how to “Grow Your Business and Expand Your Reach – A Guide to EA’s Commissioning Services” blog.

Tom Kehr

About the Author

Tom Kehr

CTS-D, CTS-I, Network+, LEED Green Associate, ISF-C, ATD Master Trainer

In-House System Designer and Trainer

Supported Applications: System Design

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