The Rise of Modular Systems in Modern Display Solutions
Modular systems can help your whole audiovisual setup stay scalable for years, if not decades; however, this depends on how well you integrate the system’s components. In this post, we will highlight why modular AV systems are growing and their potential applications.
What Are Modular Systems?
A modular AV system is a cohesive audiovisual setup that still treats its separate components as “modules” you can upgrade or replace when necessary. This includes microphones, processors, displays, and any other device or part that comprises your AV system.
These arrangements stand in contrast to all-in-one systems, which operate as a single unit. You won’t be able to switch out or upgrade individual components here. If you want to upgrade your all-in-one AV setup, buying a whole new system is usually your only option.
Why Modular Systems Are Gaining Popularity
Modular systems are a relatively new trend, with many companies still using all-in-one tech. The main reason people are adopting a modular approach, however, is its convenience. Companies can save a lot of money and time by simply replacing one component with a better one.
In addition, these systems are highly scalable. You can, for example, upgrade your video wall to take on more screens over time. Any business using AV technology will naturally use it more as they expand — modular systems make this simpler than ever.
Another significant reason is that companies are now getting more adaptable to new technology. This is in part due to customer demands; they often prioritize businesses with the latest tools.
The Key Benefits of Modular AV Systems
Unsurprisingly, the reasons these systems are popular overlap with their main benefits. Modular AV setups boost your business in many ways; here are just six major examples.
- Easier scalability: These systems make it easy to add or remove devices, provided you have enough space. Your whole setup could even extend across several floors.
- Custom design: You have full control over a modular design. You can build bespoke AV systems to match your requirements; they’re also easier for your team to use.
- Lower costs: You won’t need to buy a new system if one component breaks or requires an upgrade. You can simply buy the components you need and nothing more.
- Future-proofing: The AV tools at your disposal could easily evolve as new features take the industry by storm. Modular systems make it easy to swap in newer models.
- Less downtime: Rapid module replacements mean you can fix AV problems faster. You also won’t have to take the whole system offline if a single component starts failing.
- Longer lifespan: Some parts of any AV system naturally last longer than others. With a modular system, you can keep these while only removing parts that stop working.
(Source: https://www.pexels.com/photo/software-engineers-working-on-computers-256219/)
Top Modular AV Applications in Retail, Hospitality, and Control Rooms
Modular AV tech is especially common in customer-facing industries — but it’s also prominent in specific rooms, including command centers. In any busy setting, it’s worth investing in a modular solution that doesn’t require a complete reinstallation at the first sign of a problem.
With this in mind, here’s how these spaces usually implement modular AV solutions:
.png) |
 |
| DVP500 Video Processor | DMX302x Matrix Switcher |
1. Retail
Stores may set up digital signs, interactive kiosks, eye-catching video walls, audio systems, and more to boost the customer experience. You can then use a content management system to put the same or different deals on the signs and walls. Any component will also be easy to upgrade.
2. Hospitality
Meeting spaces in hotels and similar properties use modular systems to adapt to different event sizes. You can simply add or remove devices to fit different crowds. You could even use modular AV to upgrade your in-room entertainment systems over time without fully overhauling them.
3. Control Rooms
A control room uses many AV devices to stay informed about a situation — including video walls that show live feeds. You can service individual panels and processors without the entire system going down. This means your team will still have at least some situational awareness.
Best Practices for Modular System Integration
Integrating your modular systems takes time, but the results are always worth it. As with any AV setup, this starts with knowing exactly the type of system you want and the specific devices that will comprise it. Here are our tips for getting a modular AV system:
- Hire a third-party integrator to connect the devices and ensure they work together
- Use common industry-standard protocols such as HDMI, USB-C, and HDBaseT
- Choose network and power options that leave room for long-term expansion
- Use structured cabling to simplify troubleshooting and adding new connections
- Add redundant power supplies to stop the system crashing from a power failure
- Implement separate VLANs or networks to cleanly isolate your system’s traffic
- Consider open-source control software that lets you build custom control systems
Once the system is integrated, you must train your staff to use it, ideally with a detailed guide for them to refer to when necessary. A user-friendly interface goes a long way towards helping your team here; the control system itself should play a part in guiding them.
Final Thoughts
Modular systems are incredibly convenient in virtually any industry. They help you build thriving AV networks with components that work independently, but still come together very well — even if they’re from different brands.
However, any AV system needs the right devices. To learn more about how to create a modular audiovisual tech setup and possibly find the components you need, contact the DEXON Systems team today.