Esports on Campus: The Role of ProAV in Competitive Gaming

As Esports continues to surge in popularity, college campuses are emerging as key players in the competitive gaming landscape. From campus gaming centers and dedicated arenas to immersive broadcasting experiences, universities are investing in professional audiovisual (Pro AV) solutions to elevate their Esports programs. For systems integrators, this represents a unique opportunity to provide the advanced technology needed to support high-performance gaming environments.

Absen - esports case studiesLet’s explore the key categories of Pro AV technology essential for creating cutting-edge Esports facilities on college campuses and how integrators can play a vital role in the process.

Displays and Video Walls

High-quality displays, including large-format monitors, video walls, and projectors, are essential for both players and spectators. In gaming arenas, video walls allow for large-scale broadcasting of matches, while individual monitors ensure players have the highest resolution and refresh rates for competitive gaming.

The Absen KLCOB Series utilizes professional Micro LED technology for reliable and stable performance that stays cool. Check out these Absen esports case studies.JBL-SRX910LA speaker variety

Audio Systems

Clear and immersive audio is crucial for the player experience and for spectators. Advanced speaker systems and surround sound setups enhance gameplay immersion, while PA systems or distributed audio ensure audiences in live events can hear game commentary and match details.

JBL’s SRX900 Series addresses the growing need for scalable small and medium-format professional sound-reinforcement solutions. The SRX910LA is a two-way active line array element that can cover a variety of mid to large-sized applications. Want to know more? These JBL esports case studies may be of interest.

Broadcast and Streaming Equipment

Esports requires robust streaming capabilities. This includes video capture devices, professional-grade cameras, switchers, and encoding hardware for live streaming games to platforms like Twitch or YouTube. Professional lighting setups are also needed for player cams and audience viewability.lc200 bundle 51pb

Lumen’s Media Processor Bundle equips your space with the ability to record, store and stream video content including the LC200 CaptureVision system and PTZ cameras.

Atlona AVoIP case study gaming center

Control Systems and Signal Management

To manage all the audiovisual elements seamlessly, integrated control systems are needed. This includes AV-over-IP solutions for routing signals across multiple screens, gaming setups, and feeds, along with signal processors to ensure smooth transitions between live feeds, game replays, and announcements.

Atlona Velocity Hardware Gateway AT-VGW-HW-3 provides AV system control, plus room scheduling and AV asset management, and the Velocity System 7″ VESA Mount Touch Panel is designed for both AV control and room scheduling applications.
Atlona Velocity and Vesa touch panel
Optimized for video distribution over GbE infrastructure, deliver the highest quality 4K imagery with extremely low latency to video walls with the Atlona AT-OMNI-121 networked AV decoder featuring the advanced VCx™ codec which delivers artifact-free image presentation, ultra-fast switching, and ultra-low latency. Pair with AT-OMNI-111 AVoIP Encoder. For more insights, check out the Atlona AVoIP in Education and Esports case study.

Esports is a Growing Industry

These technologies are essential to creating an immersive and professional Esports environment on campus, elevating both player performance and viewer engagement.
SONY - Esports - Exertis Almo Webinar

As noted by rAVe in our upcoming “Esports and ProAV“ webinar description, “Virtually every college and university in North America is exploring ways to incorporate Esports on their campuses. Over 75 colleges in the USA already recognize it as a Division 1 sport. Moreover, the International Olympic Committee is considering its inclusion in the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics.”

Esports on college campuses is not just a trend—it’s an evolving industry that demands sophisticated Pro AV solutions. From displays and audio systems to live streaming setups and control systems, the right technology ensures a seamless and engaging experience for players, spectators, and broadcasters alike.

By partnering with a trusted AV distributor like Exertis Almo, integrators can confidently deliver solutions for campus gaming centers as well as meet the high standards of collegiate Esports, positioning their clients at the forefront of this dynamic market.

Ready to level up your next Esports installation? Contact us today to explore how we can help bring your vision to life.

Want to know more about AV tech for education? Check out “Audio-Visual Trends in Higher Education That Elevate the Learning Experience“.

Audio-Visual Trends in Higher Education That Elevate the Learning Experience

As the landscape of higher education evolves, so does the role of audio-visual technology in shaping learning environments for in-person and remote students. Let’s explore the top 5 trends that are revolutionizing AV in higher education institutions – and the solutions that help create a more accessible and inclusive learning space.

1. Interactive and Collaborative Learning

Interactive and engaging learning experiences are increasing in popularity among colleges and universities, and AV technology is rising to meet this demand. Interactive displays, touchscreens, and collaboration tools are transforming traditional classrooms into dynamic hubs of innovation. These spaces empower students to actively participate in their education, fostering collaboration, critical thinking, and creativity.

Projection Technology
Create engaging and collaborative learning environments with projection technology from Epson. With support for easy reading, instruction, and communication, BrightLink ensures that all students are included while bringing classrooms to life with efficient collaboration. Explore the BrightLink 760Wi Interactive Projector and the Pro 1485FI Interactive Projector for details.

Yealink - MeetingBoard touch displaysInteractive Displays
Designed to increase productivity and participation, interactive touch displays allow for effortless collaboration. Featuring a built-in camera and premium audio, Yealink’s MeetingBoard and MAXHUB’s ViewPro Series simplify classrooms and workspaces for immersive hybrid instruction.

2. Flexible Environments and Multi-Use Spaces

The shift towards flexible learning environments is reshaping the physical layout of classrooms and lecture halls in higher education. AV technology plays a crucial role in creating adaptable spaces that can easily accommodate different teaching styles and activities. Wireless presentation systems, movable furniture, and modular AV setups enable educators to customize the learning experience to meet the needs of students.

Many universities have several multi-use spaces throughout campus, and these areas require versatile technology. Higher education spaces will often use libraries for events, lecture halls for guest speakers, and cafes and study spaces for small-scale performances and entertainment.

Sennheiser G4 300 SeriesAudio Solutions
During lectures and events, microphone systems help amplify the presenters for better engagement from in-person and remote participants. Top of the class in education, Sennheiser’s G4 300 Series Wireless handheld base set is the best choice if you need a handheld transmitter and maximum flexibility.

[For more, check out the blog titled “The Dreaded Gymcafatorium: 3 Keys to Successful Multi-Use Audio Design” – Exertis Almo’s Tom Kehr provides insight into audio design in these challenging multi-use spaces.]

Epson large venue projectorsSpace-Saving Projection
Epson’s line-up of large venue projectors are an ideal choice for multi-use spaces, featuring larger-than-life images and simple installation. For rooms with limited space, the Epson laser projectors transform virtually any flat surface into a display for learning and collaboration, without taking up any space when not in use.

Portable and easy to set up in any space, Panasonic’s PT-LMW420U portable projector will help elevate communication quality with crisp, detailed images that stay clearly visible in well-lit rooms. Plus, Panasonic projectors are so intuitive they can work with the software and hardware you already have and don’t require you to be a projection expert to use them.

AV Furniture to Setup Anywhere
Legrand-AV mounts screensAV systems must also be flexible to be able to handle constantly changing classroom needs to fit hybrid, hyflex, in-person and distance learning styles, often all in the same day. The Da-Lite Tensioned Advantage electric projection screens with SightLine elevate room aesthetics and simplify setup for flexible mounting in a variety of room sizes and ceiling heights.

Colleges and universities are embracing AV trends in digital signage now more than ever as a key element of their essential information-sharing and messaging plans for reaching everyone on campus. Whether it’s a mobile cart, floor stand, or kiosk, Legrand-AV offers the flexibility to move and place digital signage where it’s needed.

3. Assistive Listening for Inclusivity and Accessibility

assistive listening systemTechnology that promotes inclusivity and accessibility is paramount in education spaces, as it ensures that each student has the opportunity to learn and thrive. Incorporating assistive listening technology is crucial, as it ensures that each individual can fully participate in classroom discussions and activities, fostering equal access to educational opportunities for all students.

Perfect for venues with a capacity of up to 100 people, the the LS-57 Advanced Level II Stationary RF System from Listen Technologies broadcasts a strong, reliable RF to ensure the best possible listening experience for everyone.

4. Lecture Capture and Streaming for HyFlex Learning

In an era of digital learning, lecture capture technology has become a cornerstone of higher education institutions. AV systems equipped with lecture capture capabilities enable educators to record and archive lectures for on-demand access by students. This flexible learning model empowers students to review course materials at their own pace, reinforcing learning outcomes and accommodating diverse learning styles.

PTZOptics Move 4K cameraAuto-Tracking Capabilities
Engineered to simplify the hybrid learning process, auto-tracking cameras are a great option to ensure that students can always see the professor during the lecture. The Move 4K is the latest PTZ camera from PTZOptics, featuring auto-tracking for a more intelligent video production workflow. The Move 4K is capable of 4K at 60fps (1080p at 60fps over SDI), future-proofing your technology investment while still accommodating HD and Full HD video resolution equipment.

Lecture-Capture Solutions for the Classroom
In modern classrooms, lecture capture is essential to create an inclusive learning experience for each student. Additionally, many courses are now asynchronous, requiring a professor to pre-record the lecture material and upload for the students’ review.

Panasonic’s LCS-100 lecture capture appliance integrates with the ATS-200 / ATS-400 auto-tracking servers, and PTZ cameras with voice-triggered presets using Panasonic Pro Audio, including ceiling microphones, gooseneck and boundary microphones, and more.

The LC200 CaptureVision System from Lumens is an all-in-one media station that allows instructors to easily mix video and audio sources while streaming and recording lectures for engaging and attractive presentations.

5. AI-Powered Tech and Data for a Personalized Experience

AVer VB130Advancements in artificial intelligence (AI) are reshaping the landscape of higher education by enabling personalized learning experiences for each student. AI-powered analytics tools analyze student data to identify learning patterns, preferences, and areas for improvement. With this insight, educators can tailor instruction to meet the unique needs of each student, fostering deeper engagement and academic success. Here are a few key solutions to create a personalized experience for students:

AVer’s VB130 is a powerful, all-in-one hybrid learning tool featuring 4K video and built-in audio for an exceptional student experience. With advanced AI and SmartFrame technology, the videobar keeps the professor in camera view while focusing on their voice so students do not miss any content.
Designed for remote teaching rooms, Yealink’s A20 + CTP18 is equipped with AI technology, including auto-framing and speaker tracking, allowing instructors to create a vivid classroom experience without restricting movement.

Summing It Up

The future of higher education is bright with possibilities, thanks to the transformative power of audio-visual technology. As institutions continue to embrace these solutions and trends, we’re excited to partner with you in delivering innovative products that elevate learning experiences and empower students in the classroom and online.

Ready to embark on your AV journey?
Reach out to us today to explore how Exertis Almo can help you harness the power of technology to transform your educational projects.

 

Projectors vs. Displays: Audio-Visual Solutions for Equitable Hybrid Learning Environments

Over the past few years, hybrid learning has quickly become the new normal in a variety of educational spaces. In order to accommodate the needs of in-person and distance learners alike, modern educational environments require innovative audio-visual solutions to ensure that classrooms provide a productive and equitable experience for everyone involved.

This poses an important question. Display or projector?

hybrid-lecture-projectorWhen designing or renovating a classroom, there are several key factors that affect an integrator’s decision in choosing to install a display or a projector. Generally speaking, the decision is based on the room size, seating layout, and light levels of the overall environment – both natural and overhead lighting included.

Displays are more commonly utilized in smaller meeting rooms, as they provide clear, crisp images for students viewing at a short distance. In larger classrooms of more than 20-25 participants, integrators usually prefer to install projectors, as they better accommodate the students seated in the back of the classroom and serve as a more cost-effective option for lecture halls and higher education spaces.

The CMZ50 from Panasonic is an excellent addition to any mid-size to large learning environment, as the projector features high visibility and dynamic visuals in bright rooms and flexible installation for a variety of room layouts, including a 21:9 aspect ratio for hybrid learning and remote collaboration. Perfect for the education space, the projector features a compact design and long-lasting power. Plus, the simple set-up and wall-mounted installation provides crystal-clear images up to 120” with little to no chances of projector shadows from the presenter.

Although projectors are a cost-conscious choice for larger rooms, some recently designed classrooms are including both projectors and displays in order to create an equitable experience for students, no matter where they’re seated. By placing displays midway through a lecture hall, these additional screens tend to mirror the content displayed on the main projectors for students seated in the back of the room.

Panasonic’s variety of professional displays for educational spaces create fascinating learning environments that enhance classroom collaboration. With hybrid learning in mind, Panasonic’s education-focused displays are designed for simple use, 24/7 operation, and advanced adaptability to keep up with the evolving education market.

hybrid-lecture-displayAdditionally, we’ve seen an increased demand for both displays and projectors in hy-flex classrooms, which follow a small group-based layout. These learning spaces feature a main projector, or several, at the front of the classroom, but separate students into small groups, each with their own individual display at their meeting table. The professor can walk around the room and supervise the individual groups, with the capability to transmit a video feed from the small group displays to the main projector to share content with the whole class.

In fact, integrating both products into a learning space can be beneficial when there are obstacles in the way, like low ceilings or an obstructed view from a certain seat. Whether these secondary displays are presenting supplemental material or reinforcing the content on the primary projector(s), this combination of technologies is a versatile way to accommodate the needs of every student and prioritize classroom equity.

However, there are some challenges and additional elements to consider when choosing a classroom layout, including fire code compliance, natural light levels throughout the day, and the existing layout of the room. For example, ceiling technologies, like projectors and microphones, have to be adjusted to prevent interaction with fans, HVAC systems, and more.

If you’d like to learn more about the Panasonic, please visit our website. You can also contact me here or reach out over on LinkedIn.
Angie Greene
About the Author

Angie Greene | DSCE

Business Development Manager

Supported Manufacturers: ScreenBeam and Panasonic

Back-to-School AV Challenges for Educators in 2022

As we are in the final days of summer, teachers are preparing their classrooms for their incoming students, preparing lessons plans, and having teacher meetings.

And in some areas of the country, the school year is already back in full-swing! And with the effects of the pandemic, many people are eager to get their children back to an in-person learning environment. That being said, there are some unique challenges facing our educators again this year. In the state of Florida alone, there are over 9,000 teacher and staff vacancies for this upcoming year. In early 2022, the National Education Association chronicled the results from a member survey, which found that “a staggering 55% of [educators] are thinking about leaving the profession earlier than they had planned.” My brother is a 7th grade teacher and I have a few friends who work in education, and I can tell that they have had similar discussions or have heavily considered other occupational options.

If we have a large amount of students coming to the classroom and limited educators for them, that likely means classroom sizes have expanded too much for instructors. In addition, there’s still
the option to provide remote education for those that have chosen to continue that learning approach for their children. In many cases, teachers are instructing remotely and in-person at the same time.

I can only imagine the challenge to trying to keep everyone’s attention while focusing on particular lesson plan! Also, it’s a challenge when the audio is poor and you cannot effectively hear the speaker, or there are multiple conversations happening at the same time. I’m an adult (or I’m supposed to be), so I imagine it is even more difficult for young students to focus and retain information when audio is overpowered by background noise. I’d compare it to Charlie Brown’s teacher (blah, blah, blah).

The Nureva XT Bundle for Education, which includes the CV300 classroom camera kit and HDL microphone and speaker system, will help to alleviate some of the challenges that educators face today. Although, I do wish we had a magic wand to help them address more obstacles in modern education, beyond audio solutions.

First, the product does not use RF technology, which is utilized in most audio devices available. Instead, Nureva uses the patented Mist Technology, which allows for audio-fullness throughout a classroom. Imagine millions of bubbles in the air, catching and distributing the sound from the speaker evenly throughout the room, floating into all of the nooks and crannies.

But wait, there’s more. By placing primary focus on the speaker, Nureva’s “What You Don’t Hear” technology minimizes distracting background noise or side conversations form students during a lesson (I was certainly guilty of this in school!). This allows the speaker to be heard consistently while moving around the room, creating a great learning environment for both in-person and remote students. Plus, the technology notices changes in the speaker’s tone or enunciation, to enhance a particular point for students, keeping them interested and focuses on the subject at-hand.

Nureva Nureva CV30 classroom camera kit

CV30 classroom camera kit

Nureva HDL300

HDL300-B audio conferencing system

In our own industry, we are facing many challenges: product availability issues, delayed projects, and staffing difficulties. With Nureva, you’ll enjoy efficient installation (in approximately 15 minutes). In fact, Exertis Almo has prepared a special installation SKU that you can order, so they can take care of it for you! You can keep skilled staff on your higher-end projects and leverage us for the help.

Angie GreeneIf you’d like to learn more about the Nureva line or book a live demo,
please visit our website, or contact me.

Angela (Angie) Greene, DSCE
Business Development Manager, ScreenBeam and Panasonic

Joe Cornwall’s USB-C “Must See” TV….at E4v

If you’re like many of us in the industry, you have a lot of questions about USB-C and how it fits into AV applications. Fortunately, Legrand AV’s “Technology Evangelist” Joe Cornwall is here to help. Joe presented a very thorough presentation on how USB-C fits into modern AV installations during Almo’s recent E4v.

During Almo’s recent E4v, Joe gave a detailed presentation on how USB-C fits into modern AV installations.

If you missed it, not to worry – you still have a chance! Courtesy of Almo, these trainings are available for another month at the E4v Flex Experience.

Below are three key takeaways from Joe’s session that you’ll definitely want to see:

#1 Cable Lengths and Connectors Matter

The great news about USB-C is that there is finally a single connector, and you don’t have to worry about whether or not it’s upside down anymore. Anyone who has touched a USB cable in the past has certainly dealt with the roller coaster of emotions that come with trying to figure out which way to plug in the cable. USB-C will solve that problem. Unfortunately, because of how much data these new cables are able to handle, they’re limited to very short cable lengths. The longest one you’ll find is six feet! Tune in to Joe’s presentation to learn why you should be excited about these cables, even with such a short length limitation.

#2 New Terms: EMCA Cables and Billboard Devices

Unlike most standard cables, the USB-C connector actually has small chipsets built right into the connector. This means that the cables work in a different manner than previous USB versions. Here are a few terms and features to be aware of: “EMCA Connectors” and “Billboard Devices.” Failing to account for these when needed could create headaches for you and your customers. Joe will teach you what to look for and how to navigate these new waters.

#3 We’re Going to Need a Bigger Docking Station

If you’re planning on deploying USB-C, you should plan on learning the role of docking stations, as these little devices display the true power of USB-C. USB-C allows for the transmission of power, video, audio, data and control bi-directionality. You’ll need a docking station to fully take advantage of all of these features and get the most out of your USB-C products in your system.

Joe’s presentation is worth a 1 AVIXA CTS Renewal Unit. He does a deep dive on these topics (and many more), in a way that only Legrand AV’s Joe Cornwall with can. This is one session you won’t want to miss!

New Year, New Opportunities for Growth in 2021!

An interview with Sam Taylor, Senior Vice President and COO, Almo Professional A/V

With 2020 in the rearview mirror, we are settling in and setting our sites on new goals in 2021. And yes, while 2021 is already starting with its share of challenges, there is a bright glimmer of expectation for the future, especially in Pro AV!

With recent AVIXA reports showing 7-8 percent growth this year, the Pro AV market continues to march ahead. In fact, according to AXIXA’s 2020 Industry Outlook and Trends Analysis, North American Pro AV revenue is expected to grow to $78.5 billion in 2021, up from $74.3 billion in 2020.

There are other glimmers available to small businesses in our industry. The latest COVID-19 Relief Package signed into law on Dec. 27, 2020 provides a second round of assistance to companies in need. See the see the full article from NSCA for complete details.

Sam Taylor
Senior Vice President & COO, Almo Professional A/V

Many lessons were learned in 2020. Like most companies, the Almo Pro A/V crew was also challenged with cancelled events, the work-from-home learning curve, and moving quickly to offer new ways to keep reseller and integrator partners learning, working and relevant.

We sat down with Sam Taylor, Vice President and COO for Almo Pro A/V to get his perspective on the highs and lows of 2020 and what to expect from Almo in 2021. Here’s what he had to say:

Q: What was the single greatest challenge for Almo in 2020?

Sam: The most difficult part was the inability to begin or complete installations due to facility closures. We’ve experienced a “W-shaped” business cycle with projects at a hard stop in the spring, only to come roaring back in the summer, then closing down again in the late fall with re-opening starting to happen again now.  

Q: How has Almo responded to this challenge?

Sam: Two primary ways, by keeping our partners educated on new trends and opportunities in the industry and providing them with relevant products/services/support they need to keep their business moving forward – either with existing opportunities or with new ones. While many markets like hospitality and onsite events were paused, others like distance learning for education and working from home for corporate businesses had urgent new AV needs.

Q: How is Almo keeping partners educated?

Sam: For the first time in 11 years, and after announcing and preparing for our regional E4 Experience education and networking program to travel to Washington, D.C. and CA last spring, we cancelled our live events and introduced a new virtual platform called E4 Evolution (E4v). E4v was met with such success that it has become a permanent part of the E4 program. With fully curated live and interactive AVIXA-certified sessions led by all-star educators on relevant topics to help attendees thrive, E4v has become the next evolution in live education experiences.

We are soon announcing the next E4v, which will take place in March! Stay tuned for details!

Q: What other measures has Almo taken to support integrators since COVID changed our world?

Sam: We are constantly evaluating and changing direction based on the industry and the needs of our partners. We now offer PPE, disinfectant fogging kits, hand sanitizing kiosks and other point-of-entry products. We supply work-from-home bundles and lecture-capture devices for educators and business professionals. We’ve even entered an exclusive relationship with ARHT Media to offer holographic telepresence technology, which is the next best thing to being live!

At the same time, we’ve expanded our managed services offering, particularly for labor and installation to include drafting and engineering options. So many spaces have to be reworked to accommodate COVID restrictions, like restaurant build-outs and restructured office and educational facilities and most of these changes must be made quickly. Almo provides these services so integrators can use them without having to worry about hiring the experts or managing the overhead. We are ready for you now.

Q: How have you handled shipping and manufacturing delays due to COVID?

Sam: The most common delays we have seen are with cameras and USB audio products due to high demand, particularly for education. We offer multiple manufacturing lines so that if one is delayed, there is usually another to access. We help our partners lock down on product allocations early and build flexible options into their P.O.’s to provide the best possible outcome. Offering managed services to help get those products installed quickly and effectively has also helped our partners complete their projects.

Q: Looking on the bright side, what are some of the positives that emerged as a result of all the challenges in 2020? 

Sam: It’s been interesting to see how some of the changes we’ve been forced to make have actually been beneficial. We have the technology to make working from home a professional, productive experience. Our E4v has enabled partners to participate in more educational sessions worth AVIXA CTS renewal units from the comfort and safety of their remote workspace. New projects and new ways of conducting business have created exciting new opportunities for our industry that we have been able to immediately embrace.

What are you looking forward to the most in 2021? 

Sam: I cannot wait until I am seeing our customers and our vendor partners in person, and getting back to the business of being together as an industry face to face for business and pleasure. While some things may permanently change, many will stay in a “hybrid” mode for some. As COVID vaccines and treatments become more widely available, public spaces will continue to open, making way for existing projects to continue and new projects to begin. The future is bright!

DO YOU HAVE ANY QUESTIONS FOR SAM? IF SO, TYPE THEM IN THE COMMENTS SECTION BELOW!

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