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We’ve been around awhile. 15 years to be exact. In that time technology has evolved, trends have come and gone, and functionality requirements have shifted. These haven’t been small changes either; they’ve been huge changes. No wonder the world of AV can seem so overwhelming. We get it!
Introducing our new blog series – Voice of the Customer: real answers to real client questions. There’s nothing like going all in, right? This week we’ll address the number one query we hear when it comes time to invest in a new system, “Why is AV so expensive?”
The short answer is… it depends. While true, it certainly isn’t a very helpful response. So, let’s unpack the primary reasons AV costs more than you think that it might.
There is a lot that goes into a successful installation, most of which is likely unfamiliar to non-AV insiders. For example, in a standard video conferencing room there are the obvious components: TV, camera, microphones, and speakers. But, there are many other hidden components (such as: PCs, digital signal processors, the controllers, and the control processors) required for all the components to work properly. All of the unseen equipment needs to be installed, programmed, tested, and certified before you can use the fun stuff you do see.
Typically, new devices don’t automatically know how to function together as a whole. An AV integrator needs to route all of the inputs and outputs accordingly as well as program the control processor to instruct the devices what to do when a certain command is selected on the controller. Depending on the complexity of the room, this can be a laborious process. In situations with multiple conference rooms, equipment may also need to be connected to a central control system which adds to the overall complexity and cost of the installation.
Immedia has vetted various manufactures in order to ensure a completed system will work for the long-term. This helps reduce the headaches that can come up mid-install, after the project is finished and for years to come. No doubt there are a lot of options for conference room technology out there. Higher quality does carry a higher price tag, but when the goal is to increase functionality and decrease future repair and replacement costs, it makes sense to spend a little more on the front-end.
There are definitely other factors to be considered when looking at the overall expense of networked AV. Hopefully touching on these three, in particular, helps take some of the mystery out of what’s behind the dollar signs. Be sure to subscribe and follow along to see what important question we’ll tackle next time!
Source: Cody Scott – Account Executive, Immedia Integrated Technologies
