The rise of AV over IP: a smart approach to media distribution

Also known as media over IP (MoIP) or HDMI over IP, AV over IP relates to audio and video distribution. It uses IP and Ethernet protocols for network media to capture, convert, compress and transmit files.

Before AV over IP solutions, integrators would use radio frequency modulation to distribute analogue AV content on a closed system, such as coaxial cabling. This has transformed into digital modulation, wherein more sources and higher-quality content can be used.

To reduce cabling costs, manufacturers have since come up with ways to digitally switch media sources, helping to centralise distribution. As HDMI technology was introduced, these digital switches were then updated to HDMI specs.

Finally, the Ethernet network became the norm in residential AV integration, offering flexibility and scalability to package and distribute content. With new advancements in video compression, AV-over-UP is now the accepted method.

Core components and how it works

The basic structure of an AV over IP solution contains:

• Encoders (or transmitter/TX for each source)
• Decoders (or receiver/RX for each display)
• Controllers.

Known as ‘codecs’ (short for ‘code and decode’), the solution uses video compression. The process starts when the encoder receives a signal, for example, from an HDMI source. It then compresses and encodes the content digitally, before serving the packet-based stream via multicast over the IP network.

Next, the decoder, or display, subscribes to the multicast. It receives the content stream before decompressing, decoding and rendering to be displayed through the HDMI.  The benefit of multicasting is that it is extremely efficient. Multiple decoders can tune in to one source’s stream, often through a controller or centralised system.

AV over IP also allows for uncompressed audio and video to be delivered over the network. The system will function on both 10Gbps and 1Gbps networks depending on specs, and the right cabling infrastructure must be used.

Standards and interoperability challenges

One challenge for AV over IP systems is choosing the right one based on intended application. This includes evaluating latency, bandwidth and quality, which could in turn affect what standards or proprietary AV over IP solutions are best.

As there are so many options for delivery and compression, the choice of combinations can be confusing. Some organisations are trying to standardise this, including Audinate, Dante, SDVoE and SMPTE.

Some proprietary solutions are not interoperable between manufacturers. There is scope for one plug-and-play standard in the future, but in the short term, it’s important that integrators work closely with vendors for testing and support.

Benefits and real-world applications

AV over IP is a significant step in audio and visual media, particularly for integrators serving large homes, cinemas or commercial buildings. As streaming services evolve and video content becomes even higher-resolution, we need the infrastructure to display it efficiently.

Both integrators and customers will reap the benefits of this new tech. For example:

• Cost savings: Lower equipment costs offer more accessible solutions
• Scalability: As distribution only needs encoders and decoders, it is easier to add sources
• Flexibility: It can function on both 10Gbps and 1Gbps networks

·        Compatibility: AV-over-IP can be converged, combining IT and AT networks.

Future content trends will likely see even higher demand for crisp visuals and groundbreaking audio. AV over IP offers integrators the freedom to incorporate this without compromising quality.

AV over IP training and expertise

While AV over IP solutions are extremely beneficial to both integrators and customers, they are also complex. Installers should go through rigorous training to ensure they can work with vendors. This will help them to test interoperability and understand the vast number of combinations.

At CEDIA, we offer extensive AV over IP training to cover these topics. To get the best value from your installations, find out more about our memberships below.