A communications system or communication system is a collection of individual telecommunications networks systems, relay stations, tributary stations, and terminal equipment usually capable of interconnection and interoperation to form an integrated whole. The components of a communications system serve a common purpose, are technically compatible, use common procedures, respond to controls, and operate in union.
A home cinema, also called a home theater or theater room, is a home entertainment audio-visual system that seeks to reproduce a movie theater experience and mood using consumer electronics-grade video and audio equipment and is set up in a room or backyard of a private home. Some studies show that films are rated better and generate more intense emotions when watched in a movie theater, but convenience is a major appeal for home cinemas. In the 1980s, home cinemas typically consisted of a movie pre-recorded on a LaserDisc or VHS tape; a LaserDisc Player or VCR; and a heavy, bulky large-screen cathode-ray tube TV set, although sometimes CRT projectors were used instead. In the 2000s, technological innovations in sound systems, video player equipment, TV screens and video projectors have changed the equipment used in home cinema set-ups and enabled home users to experience a higher-resolution screen image, improved sound quality and components that offer users more options. The development of Internet-based subscription services means that 2020s-era home theatre users do not have to commute to a video rental store as was common in the 1980s and 1990s.
An intercom, also called an intercommunication device, intercommunicator, or interphone, is a stand-alone voice communications system for use within a building, small collection of buildings or portably within a small coverage area, which functions independently of the public telephone network. Intercoms are generally mounted permanently in buildings and vehicles, but can also be detachable and portable. Intercoms can incorporate connections to public address loudspeaker systems, walkie talkies, telephones, and other intercom systems. Some intercom systems incorporate control of devices such as signal lights and door latches.
An interactive whiteboard (IWB), also known as interactive board, interactive display, interactive digital board or smart board, is a large interactive display board in the form factor of a whiteboard. It can either be a standalone touchscreen computer used independently to perform tasks and operations, or a connectable apparatus used as a touchpad to control computers from a projector. They are touch screen enabled small computers. They are used in a variety of settings, including classrooms at all levels of education, in corporate board rooms and work groups, in training rooms for professional sports coaching, in broadcasting studios, and others.
A home theater in a box (HTIB) is an integrated home theater package which "bundles" together a combination DVD or Blu-ray player, a multi-channel amplifier, speaker wires, connection cables, a remote control, a set of five or more surround sound speakers and a low-frequency subwoofer cabinet. Manufacturers also have come out with the "soundbar", an all in one device to put underneath the television and that contains all the speakers in one unit.
Audiovisual (AV) education or multimedia-based education (MBE) is an instruction method where particular attention is paid to the audiovisual or multimedia presentation of the material to improve comprehension and retention.
A fire alarm system is a building system designed to detect, alert occupants, and alert emergency forces of the presence of fire, smoke, carbon monoxide, or other fire-related emergencies. Fire alarm systems are required in most commercial buildings. They may include smoke detectors, heat detectors, and manual fire alarm activation devices. All components of a fire alarm system are connected to a fire alarm control panel. Fire alarm control panels are usually found in an electrical or panel room. Fire alarm systems generally use visual and audio signalization to warn the occupants of the building. Some fire alarm systems may also disable elevators, which are unsafe to use during a fire under most circumstances.
Document cameras, also known as visual presenters, visualizers, digital overheads, or docucams, are high-resolution, real-time image capture devices used to display an object to a large audience, such as in a classroom or a lecture hall, or in online presentations such as webinars.
Founded in 1993 by ex-Microsoft development manager David Snipp Stardraw is a company that makes audio/visual system integration and design software.
AVSnap is a freeware audio/visual system integration and design software, developed and released by Altinex Inc. in 2004. It creates a visual routing diagram of an audio/visual system that is similar to an A/V schematic or a computer network diagram. The software provides a design environment to create audiovisual diagrams and layouts.
LMG, LLC is an American provider of video, audio, LED, and lighting support. The company was founded in 1984 by Les Goldberg. LMG is divided into four brands: LMG, Systems Innovation by LMG, LMG Touring & Entertainment and LMG Venues. It is a subsidiary of Entertainment Technology Partners.
Control4 is a brand of automation and networking systems for homes and businesses, offering a customizable and unified smart home system to automate and control connected devices including lighting, audio, video, climate control, intercom, and security. The Control4 platform interoperates with more than 13,000 third-party products and it is available in over 100 countries. After merging with SnapAV, by 2024 Control4 managed over half a million homes through a network of 12,000 authorized dealers. The company was based in Draper, Utah from 2003, until its relocation to Lehi, Utah in 2023. Control4 currently operates as a brand/division of ADI Global Distribution.
Homes typically have several kinds of home wiring, including electrical wiring for lighting and power distribution, permanently installed and portable appliances, telephone systems, heating or ventilation system control, and increasingly for home theatre and computer networks.
AVI-SPL is a multi-office provider of collaboration and audio video technologies, and managed AV services to businesses and organizations. The company installs equipment related to video conferencing and telepresence, digital media systems, audio, security systems, control rooms, and provides onsite staffing.
PALME Middle East is Middle East’s longest-standing trade show for the professional sound, light, audiovisual, music, entertainment, and systems integration industries. The show has over 5000 visitors. The exhibition is for products and services including equipment, systems, and software for projects in the professional entertainment, event, construction, and installation sectors.
Multi-image is the now largely obsolete practice and business of using 35mm slides (diapositives) projected by single or multiple slide projectors onto one or more screens in synchronization with an audio voice-over or music track. Multi-image productions are also known as multi-image slide presentations, slide shows and diaporamas and are a specific form of multimedia or audio-visual production.
Mechanical, Electrical, and Plumbing (MEP) refers to the installation of services which provide a functional and comfortable space for the building occupants. In residential and commercial buildings, these elements are often designed by specialized MEP engineers. MEP's design is important for planning, decision-making, accurate documentation, performance- and cost-estimation, construction, and operating/maintaining the resulting facilities.
Crestron Electronics is an American privately held multinational corporation that manufactures and distributes control automation and integration technology. The company designs, manufactures, and distributes equipment used to control technology in commercial audiovisual environments such as meeting spaces, conference rooms, classrooms and auditoriums. Crestron equipment is also used for high-end residential audiovisual installations, built on the company's Crestron Home OS.
Lightware Visual Engineering is a Hungarian privately owned company, manufacturer and distributor of audiovisual automation and integration equipment based in Budapest, Hungary, founded in 1998. Lightware is Europe's largest manufacturer of AV management products in both fixed installation market areas and in the extensive segment of live events. Since its founding numerous projects have been planned and carried out in many countries around the world. The company develops and produces all products at the headquarters in Budapest, Hungary. The company is privately owned by the founder Árpád Gergely Vida. To this day he is CEO and head of the development department.
