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10 Tips for Better AV Systems

We polled manufacturers, integrators, and end users to help identify lingering pain points and asked them for quick solutions and insights...


How-To Articles

Latest AV How-To

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    What's Really Behind the Next Analog Sunset

    Starting in 2011, it's possible that certain high-definition content won't play in HD if the playback device uses an analog output. In 2013, it might not play at all. Which HD content and why?

     
  • Glass Spheres for Lightweight Job

    I would like to consider using the small glass spheres described in an article I found on your Web site. However, I cannot locate the company that was reclaiming glass from the waste stream and recycling it into this lightweight aggregate. Can you provide any information?

     
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    Inside HDMI's New 3D Specs

    In March, HDMI Licensing released HDMI 1.4a, which spelled out new 3D enhancements and requirements for broadcasting 3D content over HDMI. What do they mean for your next project? Here is a breakdown.

     

Most Popular AV How-To Articles

  • Image

    What's Really Behind the Next Analog Sunset

    Starting in 2011, it's possible that certain high-definition content won't play in HD if the playback device uses an analog output. In 2013, it might not play at all. Which HD content and why?

     
  • Glass Spheres for Lightweight Job

    I would like to consider using the small glass spheres described in an article I found on your Web site. However, I cannot locate the company that was reclaiming glass from the waste stream and recycling it into this lightweight aggregate. Can you provide any information?

     
  • Image

    Inside HDMI's New 3D Specs

    In March, HDMI Licensing released HDMI 1.4a, which spelled out new 3D enhancements and requirements for broadcasting 3D content over HDMI. What do they mean for your next project? Here is a breakdown.

     
 

Business Guides

Tech Tips

  • Image

    What's Really Behind the Next Analog Sunset

    Starting in 2011, it's possible that certain high-definition content won't play in HD if the playback device uses an analog output. In 2013...

     
  • Image

    Inside HDMI's New 3D Specs

    In March, HDMI Licensing released HDMI 1.4a, which spelled out new 3D enhancements and requirements for broadcasting 3D content over HDMI...

     
  • Fixing Stuck Pixels in LCD Screens

    They aren't the worst things that could befall an LCD display or control room monitor. But chances are, if an end user spots a dead or...

     
 

Commissioning

  • Color Calibration: Sencore ColorPro 4.0

    Sencore's professional display calibration tool now features grayscale and gamma calibration with absolute red, green, and blue luminance analysis, and support for LED backlight display analysis.

     
 

Cheat Sheets by Year

2010

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    Setting Up Video Cameras

    Clients often want video cameras in meeting rooms and training centers. Out of the box, however, some cameras do not produce high-quality images. AV pros can make some standard adjustments to improve quality. As with other AV devices, it's best to set up and adjust a camera in the environment where...

     

2009

  • Cheat Sheet: Securing a Wireless Network

    Whether you're using Wi-Fi for an AV controller or a digital signage system, the devices you integrate must be secure–or you could compromise your client's network.

     
  • Securing a Wireless Network

    Whether you’re using Wi-Fi for an AV controller or a digital signage system, the devices you integrate must be secure – or you could compromise your client’s network.

     
  • 35 Ways to Practice Green AV

    Whether it’s in your system designs or in your offices, there are a slew of steps you can take to help foster a more sustainable AV business.

     
  • Commissioning AV Systems

    Earlier this year, InfoComm International published the newest edition of its AV Installation Handbook, with new Also new is a detailed Commissioning Tests Checklist, developed by the Project Commissioning Working Group.

     

2008

  • Measuring Loss in Fiber Optics

    Making a fiber optic signal transmission work requires that light loss is kept to a minimum.

     
  • Positioning Microphones

    Correct microphone placement and positioning can have a dramatic effect on the quality of sound.

     
  • Lighting for AV Applications

    The right architectural lighting can have a major impact on your AV installation — whether you’re the designer or not.

     
  • Cable Installation and Handling

    It’s an important part of what every AV professional does. Doing it well can mean the difference between a great project and a not-so-great one.

     

2007

  • How to Extend Projector Lamp Life

    One of the only user-replaceable parts in a projector, lamps are critical, but they don’t last forever. Here are some tips for extending the lamp life in your projector.

     
  • How to Install Ceiling Loudspeakers

    Many commercial audio installations require that loudspeakers are flush mounted into ceiling or wall surfaces.

     
  • Rack Ventilation

    Whenever more than one piece of electronics gear is installed in a rack, the issue rises of keeping it cool. Here are some guidelines to follow to prolong the life or rack-mounted electronic equipment.

     
  • Designing a Touchpanel

    No AV system is successful if the user can’t – or won’t – operate it. For many projects, the touchpanel is key. Here’s what you need to know to design an interface that will ensure customer satisfaction.

     

2006

  • How to Conduct a Loudspeaker Demo

    Selling high-quality loudspeakers often requires a live demonstration. How you conduct the demo can ultimately affect the outcome. Here are some tips that help make audio system decision-making easier.

     
  • Dealing With Power Problems

    Power issues can create problems ranging from system noise to the destruction of digital electronics. Here are some ways to minimize noise and prevent equipment damage caused by power problems.

     
  • How to Read Construction Documents

    Any large AV project will require the accurate interpretation of architectural blueprints and other construction documents. Here’s what you need to know to ensure you’re on the same page as the architects and consultants.

     
  • How to Secure an Installed Projector

    Small, high-value items that are often left in unoccupied rooms for extended periods of time, installed projectors are a prime target for theft. Here are some ways to protect these valuable investments.

     

2005

  • Understanding Latency in Digital Audio Networks

    All networks induce some latency. Digital audio networks offer advantages in sending multiple audio signals over long distances, but for uncompressed, real-time audio, inevitable latency issues arise. Here’s what you need to know to minimize latency.

     
  • Working With Conduit

    Steel conduit has been used as a raceway system for cables since the early 1900s. For many AV installations in commercial buildings, it’s required by code. Here are some practical tips to make working with conduit easier and safer.

     
  • Hanging Projectors

    Hanging a projector can be as simple as attaching a pole to the support structure and attaching the mounting plate to the extension pole. Other times, it can involve some creativity. Here’s how to determine the best approach for your ceiling-mounting situation.

     
  • Sending Rich Media Over IP

    New video compression standards and IP networking techniques have made it possible to deliver high-quality video and audio on reliably over local area networks (LANs) or wide area networks (WANs). Here’s how it’s done.