Issue link: https://www.e-digitaleditions.com/i/1156106
22 I ICT TODAY Classroom AV system users come with a range of technical skill sets from savvy to easily intimidated. Because end users are the ultimate judges of an AV system, their willingness to use the system, their level of satisfaction with the interface, and the amount of time they spend activating the system are all factors that will be taken into account when assessing the quality of a legacy or newly installed system. Teachers and administrators want AV systems that have intuitive on/off controls, instant "on" capability, and clear feedback that the system is working. They need easy and fast connections to all devices in the classroom and consistent system-wide dependability without frequent support from an IT professional. There are a number of ways in which AV tech- nologies can be deployed in real-world classroom applications. Many classroom AV systems can be accommodated by a single AV source extended to a single display or projector. This simple solution reduces complexity, unplanned maintenance, and end-user confusion. Basic control panel systems and auto-switching wallplate inputs (Figure 4) make system access effortless and instantaneous. Choose auto-switching wallplates FIGURE 4: AV control systems. Auto-switching Control Panel Decentralized AV System A decentralized AV system, on the other hand, is based on individual, self-contained classroom systems that are not patched into the building's telecommunication room. This design is far simpler than a centralized system, thereby reducing installation and component costs. The system life cycle cost is typically lower than it would be for a similar centralized system; maintenance and up- grades can be made on a room-by-room basis rather than requiring a system-wide shut-down, reprogramming, or repair. This flexibility and affordability can have drawbacks, however. Because each room comprises a separate AV system, no central administrative control or monitoring is available; some overall system control and automation can be added with web-based system monitoring appli- cations often supplied with the projector or display operating system. For most schools, a decentralized system will meet their needs both now and as AV technology evolves. The ease of installation, reduced amount of regular maintenance, and lower total system and life cycle cost (including components, upgrades, and IT staff support) offer school administrators the flexibility to add compo- nents that meet the needs of their teaching staff and students now, as well as the ability to predict and control their classroom technology budget in the long-term. 3. AV SET-UP: KEEP IT SIMPLE AND INTUITIVE