AVoIP, or Audio-Video over IP, is a technology that enables the transmission of audio and video signals over computer networks using the IP protocol.

In critical environments where managing multiple audio and video sources is essential, AVoIP offers significant advantages.

In this article, you’ll discover how AVoIP, since its emergence a few years ago, has revolutionized the management of audiovisual streams in complex contexts.

How AVoIP works

Basic principles

AVoIP converts audio and video signals into digital data packets, which are then transmitted over IP networks. Unlike traditional AV systems that require specific cables for each type of signal (HDMI, DisplayPort, etc.), AVoIP allows these signals to be sent over standard Ethernet networks. This method typically relies on compression and decompression protocols (codecs) to ensure data quality and integrity.

These codecs are integrated into encoders (hardware or software) for the sources being transmitted and into decoders to restore the video signal on a display (such as a video wall).

Standards

Often, AVoIP protocols are proprietary, developed by manufacturers and publishers of encoders and decoders. However, there are some exceptions, such as NDI and SDVoE:

• NDI (Network Device Interface) is widely used in the broadcasting and streaming world.

• SDVoE (Software Defined Video over Ethernet) is a standard established by an alliance of manufacturers (Netgear, Matrox, Sony, VuWall, Lightware, and others). It allows uncompressed video signals to be transmitted with low latency, but it requires high bandwidth and the corresponding network infrastructure.

Advantages of AVoIP for critical environments

Flexibility and scalability

In traditional systems, scalability is often limited by the physical infrastructure and the costs associated with hardware upgrades. AVoIP, on the other hand, leverages the inherently flexible nature of IP networks to enable quick and easy reconfiguration of AV resources.

With AVoIP, adding new sources or altering the distribution of video streams can be done without physical changes to the infrastructure, reducing both intervention time and costs.

The scalability of AVoIP systems is also nearly limitless. Unlike traditional hardware solutions, AVoIP allows new devices or streams to be added simply by expanding the existing network capacity. Protocols like RTSP facilitate the integration of new sources, while centralized management solutions allow the entire system to be controlled from a single interface.

Reliability

As AVoIP is a distributed architecture, the unexpected failure of a controller won’t impact the ongoing flow between encoders and decoders, allowing encoded content to continue being displayed.

Reduced infrastructure costs

Initial installations and subsequent upgrades become less expensive since the existing network infrastructure can often be reused, reducing the total deployment costs.

Enhanced data sharing

From an operator’s perspective, AVoIP offers opportunities for simplified data sharing. This technology effectively extends KVM (Keyboard, Video, Mouse) systems, facilitating remote management of servers and other critical equipment.

AVoIP and network security: Debunking hacking myths

There is a myth that using audiovisual streams over an IP network exposes control rooms to increased hacking risks. This fear is largely unfounded.

Network security has evolved significantly in recent years, and modern AV-over-IP technologies incorporate robust security protocols such as AES encryption, VPNs, and next-generation firewalls.

Furthermore, AV-over-IP solutions can be integrated into existing security policies. Systems can be segmented within the network, limiting access to authorized users and devices only.

In summary, when best security practices are followed, AV-over-IP systems are no more vulnerable than traditional solutions and can even offer enhanced security through real-time monitoring and access auditing.

Slow adoption of AVoIP: Organizational challenges

Despite the many advantages of AVoIP, its adoption in control rooms has been slower than expected. One of the main obstacles is the existence of silos within organizations, where network teams and audiovisual teams often have different skills and priorities.

Transitioning to AVoIP requires not only increased collaboration between these departments but also specialized training to ensure teams are proficient in both audiovisual and IP networking principles. This dual expertise is essential for maximizing the benefits of AVoIP while ensuring system security and performance.

Moreover, the shift to AVoIP can be seen as a complex and costly project, especially for organizations that have already invested in traditional AV infrastructure.

Nonetheless, AVoIP installations are experiencing significant growth, particularly in critical environments where flexibility and scalability are essential.

One of the most anticipated developments is the improvement of AVoIP quality, in terms of both latency and resolution. Advances in compression algorithms and networking technologies (such as 5G and 10 Gbps Ethernet) are expected to enable even smoother AV transmission, making AVoIP suitable for a broader range of applications, including those with strict performance requirements.

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