A standardisation plan, started in 2006, has paid off for the Western Carolina University, boasting a standardised Extron system which has achieved tangible money-saving benefits and improved interoperability.
With its own full-time staff of five AV specialists in its IT department, the university designs, installs and maintains an AV equipment pool across 400 learning spaces. The decision to standardise with an Extron system was made to provide effective support for the campus with a small team of technicians.
The AV system in most of the university’s 110 standard classrooms revolves around an IN1608 xi scaling presentation switcher, featuring eight inputs to support an array of video and audio signals, with an integrated control processor and integrated audio amplifier. The switcher provides the flexibility to fulfil most of the classroom needs, with AV program audio and the instructor’s voice amplified through ceiling mounted flat field speakers.
Users control the classroom AV through a TouchLink Pro touchpanel interface, with identical AV systems across all classrooms to allow professors to use AV in any room. The technicians can set up and troubleshoot the systems rapidly, with a greatly reduced spaces inventory thanks to the university’s standardisation efforts.
William Frady, director of instructional technology/desktop services, WCU, commented: “We use the gear; we’ve tested the gear; we’ve seen the persistence of Extron in providing solutions for our unique AV needs. If something works and I can afford it, then I’m obviously going to go that route.
“I consider Extron a partner, not a vendor. Sure, Extron products work well - as they must. But most important to me is the respect and mutual trust built over many years.”