3 Types of Control Systems

Basics

An AV Control System brings together the various AV technologies many schools in use and runs them in a seamless manner. It should be as simple as possible to run with an easy-to-use interface. Simply use from a central location and you should be able to access remotely. It allows the operator to control each piece of AV equipment as a system or individually.  AV systems can comprise an assortment of hardware that includes conference telephones, video cameras, interactive whiteboards, digital signage, computers, smartphones, tablets, wireless connectivity, and more in a single control module. These systems are a smart and necessary investment for a division that relies on distance learning, video conferencing, online professional development, conferences, and presentations as a matter of routine. 

https://www.dataprojections.com/dp-av-control-system/

AV control systems use software products to control equipment. This module will provide a brief overview of the following systems and where to find more information on each:

  • Crestron

  • AMX

  • Extron

  • Q-SYS

You should know the following terms:

  • AV Control System

Comparing AV Systems

The following information is from: https://www.dataprojections.com/products/control_systems_3

Crestron

Crestron is one of the major players in the AV industry in both commercial and residential space. It has an expansive control system product, including both control interfaces and processors. The system is designed to provide simple, consistent, repeatable solutions, from a single building to an entire campus or school district. 

All of Crestron’s systems allow the user to control the system with one control system. Crestron control systems (like the CP3) are designed with a modular programming architecture, allowing tech personnel to run device-specific programs for various room features, including security, lighting, and the like. Each program's function is optimized and each program can be modified without affecting any other. The system is designed to be simple to upgrade and scale up.

Crestron Resources

Crestron Education Technology Resources: All resources below are created by Crestron and are a combination of video and written resources.

AMX

AMX, a division of Harman,  is one of Harman's most prolific brands, and is particularly strong in device control and management. They manufacture a complete line of control systems designed to be scalable and secure in a compact control panel. The NX-4200  is a versatile piece of control equipment, suitable for education, professional, and government applications.

The NX-4200 is designed with a flexible architecture designed around IP that allows for future upgrading. It is also built with a redundant power source and has extra security features, such as cryptographic support aligned to government standards. The technologies are simple to learn, manageable to support, and make rooms easy to use. It combines audio systems and all-in-one video switchers through a single interface. They have a strong online training and certification portal which is linked below. 

AMX Resources

Watch the following videos to learn the basics of AMX.

Learn more about AMX Systems:

Extron

Extron develops control processors, interfaces, and hardware devices to capture video signals. They include feedback from educators in order to engineer AV tools that support teaching and learning and provide efficiency in deployment and management. Their control system is designed to be easy to use, has a flexible user interface, and is solid and reliable. Extron has a large video library of help/training videos that can be accessed by signing up for a free account. 

Extron has one of the largest touchscreen control interfaces available. It is powered with a single Ethernet cable and can be connected to your network using standard infrastructure. It is intended for use with component-heavy AV solutions and can be configured to work with common conferencing platforms, such as Microsoft Teams or Zoom. The User Interface can be customized using Extron's proprietary software. 

Extron Resources

Q-SYS

Q-SYS is a company that sells loudspeakers, power amplifiers, digital signal processors, and digital mixers. They have a room control system, the Q-Sys, which networks audio, video, and the control platform together. Their products are used in corporate settings and movie theaters around the globe. Q-SYS provides all of its training and software for free and is open to anyone. They also have a strong support system in place. 

Q-Sys Resources

Getting started with Q-SYS

Learn more about Q-SYS

Complete the following task or self-assessment:

Determine the type of AV System(s) used in your schools or district. Hopefully, there is only one AV System that addresses the needs of your staff and students. Use the videos and other resources linked here to practice using the AV System. If you do not have one of the AV Systems listed here, you may have to do a little online research of your own, but most AV Systems will provide tutorials and document you can benefit from.

Put yourself in the place of a teacher, and practice sharing content on the system and interacting with students, whether in the room or from a distance. Try to experience what your teachers and other staff will need to know and be able to do to use the AV system so you can provide them with relevant help, tips, and tricks.

Consider adding these links and any helpful information you generate with  staff members to the IT Department’s or Help Desk Knowledge Base.