Understanding AV

What is AV distribution?

With Smart-e’s Audio-Visual distribution this will allow centrally located sources along with remote sources to be distributed to a number of displays from one location. This provides high quality video and audio over long distances, along with remote power and control using standard CAT 6/6A structured cable. The Smart-e range of products provide a cost-effective and reliable solution for transmitting a variety of AV devices, including:

  • Satellite receivers (STB) including PVRs
  • PCs and Laptops
  • Video Servers
  • Security Cameras
  • Digital Signage Players

The image and sound can then be displayed on:

  • Plasma Displays
  • LCD Screens
  • LED Displays
  • Projectors
  • Video Walls

A scalable system enables us to match the customer’s budgetary requirements. With our products you can also view and control any AV device in the building by installing a single CAT 6/6A cable to each room.

How does it work?

Smart-e products work by mixing up to 11 different signals and injecting them onto the 4 pairs of wires available in CAT 6/6A type cabling. Using a receiver, the signals can be decoded into:

  • Industry Standard Video
  • USB
  • Analogue Audio
  • Digital Audio
  • Infra-Red
  • Bidirectional RS232
  • Remote Power

The output can then be fed into commercial or domestic type AV equipment.

Smart-e matrices also provide full non-blocking routing from up to 128 sources to 128 destinations. Matrices can be fully controlled by our own IP control unit, Smart-e application software, Infra-Red handset control or one of many available control systems.

Where is it used?

Audio Visual distribution is used in all manner of situations where video screens, projectors or audio systems are used, however the vast majority of installations will fit into one of the categories below:

  • Presentation Systems
  • Corporate Communications
  • Digital Signage
  • Entertainment Systems
  • Interactive & Remote Teaching
  • Security Monitoring
  • Marine

Smart-e provides ‘off the shelf’ installation packages for the categories above, so if you’re unsure about which products are right for you then see our Solutions pages for inspiration.

What is CAT 6/6A Cable?

CAT 6/6A represents all structured cabling formats and is the perfect distribution medium for transmitting audio and visual signals around premises or between buildings, and is essential for High Definition (HD) quality. Traditional systems use a single coaxial cable to transmit signals, which is limited as the cable can only transmit composite video at standard definition, compromising the integrity of the original image and the clarity required by large screens. Using CAT 6/6A cable allows the centralising of AV resources in one area, the sharing of AV resources across the whole building, as well as ease of maintenance and improved security.

CAT 6/6A allows the use of many services over a single cable, producing crystal-clear images and sound. It is now possible to view and control any AV device in a building by installing a single piece of CAT 6/6A cable to each room. Compatible with all known HD resolutions and capable of mixing formats, CAT 6/6A cabling has a distribution length of up to 300m.

  • Quick & easy to install with simple, rapid & reliable cable termination
  • Enables superior transmission
  • Provides robust network for all types of AV systems
  • Handles TV, VGA, Audio, RS232, USB, Ethernet & power
  • Permits equipment upgrades
  • Eliminates potential earth loops
  • Balanced signal driving copes with varying ground potentials
  • Rejects intrusion of external noise and interference (fluorescent lighting, motors, power cables etc.)

CAT 6/6A refers to CAT 6 and 6A structured cabling.