NIC Partners, Inc

Classroom Audio/Video Integration

NIC Partners starts every classroom A/V integration project with a discovery session. We perform site walks, look at the classroom environment and examine budgets for each school/district. A seamless A/V classroom integration project begins with the right design. A/V integration usually includes a speaker system with the appropriate amplification system, a sound reinforcement solution (microphones) and a way for teachers to plug-in a variety of multimedia devices (iPod, laptop, projectors, microphones, etc.). LCD Projectors are also part of this integration. NIC Partners can help your school understand your options and evaluate return-on-investment (ROI).
 

Speakers & Amplification – The Heart of Any Classroom A/V Integration

NIC Partners knows that there isn’t one solution that fits every classroom. Acoustics vary with classroom construction, ceiling type, classroom size and other variables. Any A/V classroom integration project begins with understanding how we’ll distribute sound throughout the classroom. We know that there will be a variety of sound technologies running over any speaker/amplifier system, like music, video soundtracks, microphones and PA announcements. Here’s an overview of some of the technologies we can implement for your organization’s classrooms, training-rooms, lecture halls, labs and auditoriums.
 

Extron MediaLink

The MediaLink System is a family of easy-to-install and easy-to-use products that work together to connect, control, and switch A/V presentation equipment in small, one-projector environments. All MLC - MediaLink Controllers, MLS - MediaLink Switchers, speakers, wall plates, and cables are designed to simplify installation and operation of presentation systems. The complexity often associated with A/V integration is replaced with standardized and simple one-touch functionality that provides a complete system solution.

The Extron MLC 226 IP DV+ MediaLink Controller is an enhanced control panel with dual-function DVD and VCR IR remote control. Both display control and source control are provided on a single panel to standardize the control interface for all systems, making display systems simple to use. Standardization also makes setup and maintenance easier to support.

In addition to configurable backlit buttons for power and input source control, the MLC 226 IP DV+ includes a fixed, dual-function control panel that is able to provide IR remote control of a VCR and DVD player's most commonly used functions. The controller also features IP Link® with GlobalViewer®, a free Web-based A/V resource management and remote control software application.

The MLC 226 IP DV+ MediaLink Controller offers several enhanced control capabilities including six input selection buttons, two bidirectional serial ports for display and switcher control, three unidirectional serial/IR control ports, six relays, and support for optional IRCM - Infrared Control Modules to control VCRs, DVDs, and other IR controllable equipment.

The flexible MLC 226 IP DV+ acts as an extended remote control panel. It is not a switcher; instead, as a controller, it tells the display when to switch between its various inputs. Presenters with little or no training can walk into any multimedia classroom and operate the A/V system. The MLC 226 IP DV+ includes universal display control for a display's power, input switching, and volume control. The MLC 226 IP DV+ features backlit buttons that can be custom-labeled for easy identification. Because the buttons illuminate, they are helpful for presenters in low-light environments. The input selection and room/function buttons on the MLC 226 IP DV+ can be utilized for source selection and relays, as well as sending various RS-232 or IR commands.

Especially vital for high traffic areas, the MLC 226 IP DV+ fits into a five-gang wall box and ships with black and white high-impact plastic faceplates. It has the same look and functionality regardless of where it is mounted: a lectern, desk, wall, rack, or wall box.
 

Extron PoleVault Systems

Complete Pole Mounted Systems for Video and Audio Switching, Control and Projector Mounting. Key features include:


 

• Complete, centralized A/V switching and control systems with stereo amplification
• Securely mounts and conceals switching and audio amplification components above the projector
• Energy Efficient design offers Extron exclusive Auto Power Save and Standby modes designed to lower energy usage and reduce operating costs
• Easy-to-use MediaLink controller included
• Systems use CAT 5-type cable for quick and easy connections and low-cost installation

PoleVault Systems have been designed in three standard systems to streamline the design and procurement process. These two-, three-, and four-input systems include all the necessary audio and video switching, audio amplification, system control, source connectivity, speakers, mounting hardware, and cabling for a complete classroom A/V solution. All that remains is to add the video projector, projection screen, and video sources.

The three standard PoleVault System packages are each ordered using a single part number.

• PVS 200 Two Input PoleVault System: Accommodates one VGA computer-video and one composite video source
• PVS 300 Three Input PoleVault System: Accommodates two VGA computer-video and one composite video source
• PVS 400 Four Input PoleVault System: Accommodates two VGA computer-video and two composite video sources

Each system package includes the following core components:

• One PVS 305SA Five Input Twisted Pair PoleVault Switcher with Integrated Stereo Audio Amplifier- not available separately • One MLC IR/RS-232 Projector Communication Cable - Plenum, 50' (15 m)
• One MLC 104 IP Plus MediaLink Controller with IP Link - White • One MLC PW/RS-232/VC Power, Switcher Communications Cable - Plenum, 50' (15 m)
• One PCM 340 Projector Drop Ceiling Mount with Adjustable Pole • One AV RCA Male to Male RCA Cable - 3' (1 m)
• One PMK 550 PoleVault Pole Mount Kit
• One MVGA M-M 3 Male to Male Micro VGA Cable - 3' (1 m)
• One UPB 25 Universal Projector Bracket - White • Two, three, or four exclusive PoleVault A/V input wallplates- see below
• One pair of FF 120 Flat Field Speakers for Drop-In Tile Ceilings • One or two lengths of CAT 5 twisted pair cable per wallplate - Plenum, 15 m each
• One length of SPK 18 Precut Speaker Cable - Plenum, 35' (10.6 m)

PVS 200:
Includes one PVT RGB D wallplate and one PVT CV D wallplate.
PVS 300:
Includes two PVT RGB D wallplate and one PVT CV D wallplate.
PVS 400:
Includes two PVT RGB D wallplates and two PVT CV D wallplates.

PoleVault Systems must always include the PoleVault Switcher - which is available only in a PoleVault System - a PMK 550 PoleVault Pole Mount Kit, Extron Exclusive Patent Pending Flat Field™ Speakers, and two to four A/V inputs. PoleVault Systems can be customized to meet classroom requirements. System pricing is based on the components and quantities selected.

The VoiceLift™ Microphone enables the creation of a classroom sound field system that allows the teacher's voice to be heard clearly throughout the classroom. Studies show that use of a sound field system results in increased student achievement and a reduction in teacher vocal strain and voice fatigue.
 

Sansonic HNB Wired and Wireless Classroom A/V Integration Systems

Sansonic HNB multimedia digital amplifiers are available in wired and wireless versions. HNB wired systems are single 2-gang amplifiers for in-ceiling, in-wall or surface mount applications and or shelf mounting. HNB RF Wireless systems are designed to conveniently upgrade any HNB A+B system via a single CAT5e cable and easily mount in standard 2, 4 or 6 gang EO boxes.

Sansonic’s HNB™ Series digital communication systems combine all major elements of Communication, Audio, Video, and Wireless into ONE low-cost package that is easy and cost effective for education.
 

• Works with virtually any multimedia device (TV, VCR, DVD, iPod, projector or laptop).
• Connects to literally any speaker, PA, life safety/fire system.
• Easy-to-use, plug-in operation.
• Attractive and secure wall, ceiling or surface mount design.
• Meets the price/performance demands of public entities with strict budget requirements.
• Cost effective to purchase, install, expand and operate.
• Compatible with common NEMA/UL electrical boxes, mud rings and conduit.
• Compatible with all 70V/25V speakers using the optional HNB-70V2X.

The Sansonic HNB™ Series digital/mixer amplifier system is a modular, pre-packaged stand alone powerful audio system utilizing familiar plug-in modules. It is compatible to 4 and 8 ohm speakers and is engineered to quickly install into common wall or ceiling construction using standard NEMA / UL electrical hardware. It is ideally suited for AV and ‘audio only’ applications in Education.
 

• Works with virtually any multimedia device (TV, VCR, DVD, iPod, projector or laptop).
• Connects to literally any speaker, PA, life safety/fire system.
• Easy-to-use, plug-in operation.
• Attractive and secure wall or ceiling mount design.
• Meets the price/performance demands of public entities with strict budget requirements.
• Cost effective to purchase, install, expand and operate.
• System accessories (microphones, headsets, receivers) include rechargeable batteries for cost effective use and environmental stewardship.
• Compatible with all 70V/25V speakers using the optional HNB-70V2X