Traditionally, businesses have regarded audio and video as separate media and never imagined that they could be merged into a single network. Until now. AV over IP is no longer a fantasy. Any standard Ethernet network can be used as a conduit to transfer AV signals including: HV video, audio, control and peripheral signals.

While the technology to use AV over IP is available already, the question is whether or not businesses are ready to use it.  Just a short time ago, if you had considered pushing AV over IP, you may have drawn a few worries from the IT department. Concerns about bandwidth, network crashes, and the effects that it would have on other business processes, like email, may have stopped you in your tracks. The big challenge no longer rests on the limits of technology, but rather on a business’ willingness to accept the big push that new technology gives us. If we are ready for that big push, then who knows where the technology might take us.

Why Should We Encourage AV over IP?

Perhaps we need a little nudge before we are ready to accept the “big push” and jump in with both feet to use AV over IP. Here are just a few reasons why it could be the best thing for your business: 

• Scalability is one of the most important factors that modern organizations should take into account. In the end, organizations that add mobility to their operations will be best positioned to succeed. Because, AV over IP does not require several ports to share content with more than one receiver, it is the perfect way to share content with a multiple users. AV over IP supports your ability for the growth, as you grow.   
• Any standard Ethernet network can be used as the platform for deploying AV over IP. This flexibility factor makes it easier for organizations to share signals in a cost-effective manner while producing the same results. 

Breaching the Limits of Location. AV signals can deliver the desired content to many screens at different locations. It entirely depends on the reach of network. As far as the network goes, targeted participants within range will be able to receive instant access to the content.

The advent of merged AV signals has clearly blurred the differences between these two mediums, and IT functions as the thread of connection. Thanks to the IT interference, now users don’t have to manage AV devices and computers or servers separately. Administrators may experience certain complications in connecting increasing number of devices with a specific network, but successful deployment and execution of the connection will ultimately help end-users.

The Usability of AV over IP

AV over IP is seeing an increase in popularity among different industries, expanding the limits of information technology. Usage of this method is most conspicuous in corporate communication, education, the hospitality industry, industries that facilitate users with digital signage, home automation, and AV distribution, among others. If as a network administrator you are still hesitating to deploy AV over IP, then you will find yourself falling behind. People around us have embraced AV over IP already, and with measurable success.  With the advancement in compression technology, bandwidth on the computer and in the network, systems are able to quickly create and deliver video content from point to point. So, yes! We have arrived. Are you there yet?