AV System Integration for University Business School Streaming Studio

Integrated Lighting, Rigging, and Video Production Environment for Modern Learning and Collaboration

The Challenge: Complex AV Requirements Within a Constrained Studio Environment

A leading university business school set out to build a modern, two-room streaming and video production studio to support hybrid learning, live streaming, and virtual collaboration. The facility required seamless coordination between multiple technologies— video, audio, lighting, and control systems— while working within a limited physical footprint.

Key challenges included integrating a large video wall, multiple camera systems, advanced lighting, and audio production tools into a cohesive environment. The control room presented additional constraints, including limited space for equipment racks, potential noise interference, and reduced flexibility for operator positioning. At the same time, the studio needed to remain adaptable, user-friendly, and capable of supporting a variety of production scenarios.

To meet these demands, the university required a comprehensive AV system integration approach that would unify all components into a reliable, high-performance solution.

The Solution: End-to-End AV System Integration with Lighting, Rigging, and Production Technologies

Data Networks delivered a fully integrated AV system integration solution, combining structural, lighting, and audiovisual technologies into a unified production environment. Central to the design was the installation of a 17’ x 17’ suspended pipe grid, constructed from 1.5” schedule 40 steel piping. This grid provided the structural backbone for mounting lighting fixtures, supporting production flexibility, and enabling professional-grade studio setups.

The project included the deployment of a complete lighting and rigging system, with dead-hung rigging points designed to support future video wall installations and additional equipment. A digital lighting system was installed and configured to illuminate both green screen environments and in-studio presenters. Lighting fixtures were interconnected through daisy-chained power and data, with centralized control via a DMX lighting console located in the control room and supported by wireless communication.

As part of the AV system integration, the studio was equipped with:

• A large video wall for dynamic, multi-source content display
• Two (2) PTZ auto-tracking cameras suspended from the grid
• Additional camera inputs via a production press box
• Multiple studio and control room displays for monitoring and management
• A video switching system capable of routing content to streaming platforms, recorders, and displays

The control room was designed as the operational hub of the environment, featuring dual equipment racks, four wall-mounted monitors (including a multi-view display), and a digital Dante-enabled audio console. This allowed operators to manage audio sources, microphones, and DSP-based processing for consistent, high-quality sound across all use cases.

Data Networks’ subcontractor, A-V Services, Inc., provided comprehensive engineering and design services, including system architecture and AV documentation. In addition to coordinating with electrical teams and subcontractors and consulting on infrastructure requirements, Data Networks ensured all elements were carefully integrated to confirm compatibility with existing building systems and third-party components.

Ongoing Value: A Scalable, High-Performance AV System Integration for Future Growth

Through this AV system integration, the university now benefits from a fully unified and scalable studio environment that supports a wide range of academic and professional use cases. The integrated design enables seamless control of lighting, audio, and video systems, allowing faculty and staff to produce high-quality content with minimal technical barriers.

The flexible lighting grid and rigging infrastructure provide a foundation for future expansion, while the centralized control systems streamline day-to-day operations. Despite spatial limitations, the solution delivers a highly functional and efficient production space.

This modern studio environment empowers the institution to enhance digital learning, expand remote engagement, and support evolving communication needs— backed by a robust and expertly delivered AV system integration.

Tags: Hi-Ed, higher education, audio visual