The bandwidth available for modern networking transport protocols allows audio to be routed over long distances without the interference and cable capacitance that plagues traditional analog systems. This means a whole host of new possibilities for system design that would be impossible otherwise. For example, a live sound rig could run off a single network cable instead of a massive analog snake. This makes it easy to monitor and reconfigure the system, even remotely.
Interoperability
Unlike traditional AV systems, where each audio channel required its separate connection – and was vulnerable to issues such as signal loss or latency – networked AV systems operate on a data network. This means routing changes can be triggered with a single mouse click, and the precise nature of the connections between hardware can be redefined and reassigned at any time. Most AV networking technologies are based on Layer 3 protocols. This is an improvement over earlier systems that used proprietary digital interfaces but still needs open interoperability. Fortunately, many of these “higher level” networking Baton Rouge, LA solutions use standard, affordable networking hardware, meaning they can be more cost-effective and used over a greater distance than older technologies that were limited to the equipment of a single manufacturer. This also allows end users to continue using products that may not be network-native but can be connected via convertors and remain in sync.
Scalability
Using computer networks to distribute audio, video, and hardware control signals is becoming increasingly popular. This is primarily because of the scalability they offer. Most systems can easily be upgraded to support more inputs and outputs, eliminating the need for additional boxes or cables and reducing setup time. The technology also eliminates distance constraints, allowing signal transport over copper (Category) and fiber cable. This is a big advantage for larger installations, and even small systems are often designed to avoid the need for expensive extension cables by using a mix of unicast and multicast communication. Understanding these technologies allows AV installers to minimize setup times and streamline system management while providing the means for interconnecting different locations and hardware, all while tying together the components of audio production – recorded and live – and efficiently. In addition, knowledge of computer networking can help AV professionals work closely with IT managers to ensure sufficient bandwidth and headroom for the AV equipment and ensure that Virtual LANS are set up ahead of time.
Efficiency
As AV moves from hardwired, circuit-based switching to network-based AV-over-IP, the efficiency of systems dramatically increases. This is because IP-based AV data is packetized, similar to computer and telephone networks, making it much more efficient to transport large amounts of data over long distances. AV over IP is also much more flexible than traditional circuit-based switch technology. AV switches can prioritize certain data types, such as audio or video, over others. This is because, whereas email and website traffic does not care about the exact order in which they are received, audio must arrive at its destination at the right time. As a result of these advantages, audio networking is quickly becoming the standard for live performance venues. It minimizes setup times and streamlines system management. It provides a means for interconnecting different locations and hardware and tying together the components of audio production (recorded or live) in a simple, efficient way.
Control
The AV industry is now reaping the benefits of bringing computer networking expertise into the audio-video world. As the old walls between AV and IT crumble, network design becomes an essential pillar of the AV field of knowledge. AV-over-IP converts the circuit-based data of traditional AV systems into packets that are much more similar to computers and telephony over IP. This makes it possible for AV systems to take advantage of a wide range of computer networking capabilities, including remote system monitoring/configuration and security. In addition, modern network transport protocols have sufficient bandwidth to support hundreds of audio channels. This enables a whole new set of possibilities for audio configurations that were previously impossible. Lastly, unlike the complex and expensive hardware infrastructure required by hardwired analog audio, a networked AV system can be easily scaled to accommodate extensive facilities. This makes it ideal for scenarios ranging from the single-room home studio to multi-room post-production facilities or large arenas.
