The characteristics of meetings room audio visual are unique, with audio fed in from various sources across a large space. Add projectors and displays to the mix, and you have lots of different ways the AV experience can suffer.
You might have seen films where a conference phone is in the middle of a meeting room with executives perched around it. Today’s meeting rooms are all about technology, bringing virtual communication to the fore. The best meeting rooms enable hybrid work in a way that is seamless and intuitive.
Video conferences
Displays
Single displays are great for small meeting rooms, but large meeting rooms should use dual displays. Two screens can share more dynamic content and sync to create a larger view area – alternatively, you can use projector screens.
Display size is crucial. Small meeting rooms should choose a minimum 48” display, while larger meeting rooms should use a display up to 90”. However, if the display is too big, you will lose focus on the viewing area.
Camera
The core of any video conferencing solution, the camera you use should be positioned to encompass the whole room. The height, distance, and viewing angle should offer a crystal clear view of the room unaffected by light.
4K resolution is the golden standard, but 2K resolution is also a good choice. 1080p is okay, and you should avoid 720p cameras. As important as the resolution is the field of view. Look for a wide-angle lens and pan /tilt /zoom (PTZ) capabilities.
Mics and speakers
Don’t rely on the camera’s in-built microphone to pick up sound. You should use wireless microphones in large meeting rooms so everyone can be heard. In small meeting rooms, we recommend a dedicated microphone with noise-cancelling technology.
In terms of speakers, these should be small but clear. Tweeters are an excellent choice because bass speakers can disturb microphones. A 2-1 speaker system is usually sufficient for a small meeting room, with 5-1 systems for larger spaces.
Computers
Thanks to advances in technology, today, you can host virtual meetings on a smartphone or tablet. The need for a computer in meeting rooms is long gone. However, you may need one, depending on the type of work you do.
A dedicated device for meeting rooms is essential. A popular choice is like Mac Mini or an iPad. Bringing your own device is also a good strategy so long as people access the data and tools they need for the meeting.
Managing cables
Table grommets let you cleanly pass cables on the table to the bottom. For cables that are fixed, use conduits under the floor or suspended on ceilings. Conduits can also be installed behind walls to run cables across your meeting room.
For cables that run across the floor, use raceways to reduce tripping hazards and use cable extenders to connect devices rather than extension leads.
Start your AV transformation
We are one of the leading AV companies in the UK. We specialise in the supply and installation of AV equipment to the corporate sector. For a chat about your AV needs, call our installation team on 01924 423 111 or email info@KPMS.co.uk.
