Why Design?

In the past audio visual systems consisted of ceiling speaker, a four-input sound mixer and an overhead projector. Today audio visual technology has grown into high performance sound systems with 96 channel digital sound boards, high definition camera and projection system, intelligent moving lights, and digital signage communication systems. All of which require the upmost attention in engineering and design.

Audio Visual systems can make up to 15% of the buildings overall budget and should never be overlooked in the initial design phase of the building. Just like you wouldn’t take the first look at the heating and cooling systems once the sheetrock is installed, neither should you wait on the AV systems.

Audio Visual Systems Require

Electrical

Receptacles need to be installed in the proper place with the proper amperage. The grounding scheme for the av systems must be proper and cannot be including in the same ground as the HVAC or Lighting. AV systems can require anywhere from 100 amps to in the 1000’s and this must be determined before the main electrical feed to the building is ran cause you could find your building does not have enough power to support the AV systems.

Conduit

Conduit systems and junction must be in place before the slab of the building is poured or you will spend more installation cost and run the risk of not be able to have your AV systems function at 100%. Just one example is if you want cameras in the sanctuary and if you don’t have conduits or junction boxes in place at the camera location then you will be force to put the camera somewhere else, compromising your video production, or run cables along the floor.

Heating & Cooling

AV equipment generates heat and you must make sure the rooms house the equipment have the proper ventilation systems or you will run the risk of the equipment overheating

Structure

Speaker systems, lighting trusses, projectors and screens can weigh into the thousands of pounds therefore we must communicate with the structural engineers to ensure the building can support the weight and to make sure steel beams are in the proper place to attach the equipment. Otherwise the placement of the equipment will be compromised effecting the performance of the system.

Aesthetics

If the architect knew where the equipment needed to be place they can design building elements around the equipment making it discrete and seamless within the room.

Location

Don’t let ANYONE besides an AV consultant decide where equipment should go. We have seen amplifier racks under baptisteries, soundmen trying to mix in a closet, dimmer racks in attics, and so on. Size, shape, heat, control, and application all come into play when deciding where the equipment should go. Also, we need to make sure the contractor puts the correct size countertops and cabinets to support the equipment

“Oh, so there is more to it than just hanging a couple speakers and slapping a screen on the wall?”

That’s right. View this chart on possible expenses incurred by not having an Audio Visual consultant on the front end of your project.