Here at JD Systems, every audio visual integration project we do is different. (That’s what makes our jobs so exciting!)

Let’s say you’re a New York bar, restaurant or nightclub owner. You might call us and say that you want “a system as good as Joe’s down the street.” Well, guess what? Joe’s systems works for Joe’s customers, in Joe’s space. Even if you are a direct competitor of Joe’s bar and lounge, (and even if you got our name from Joe after seeing what we can do!) our goal is to give you the best systems that work in YOUR space and meet your needs.

That’s why we’ll want to meet with you to plan the work and devise a best course of action. At that time, we’ll also answer any questions you may have about the technology we’re using.

To give you a head start in understanding some of the technology in complex commercial video systems, here are some of the basics about the benefits of using a video matrix and how to tell if you’re getting the best video gear for your money. Read this post to find an easy, straight-forward definition of a video matrix.

Benefits of a Video Matrix
A video matrix eliminates the need for ugly boxes and wires hanging from your state-of-the-art plasma or LCD screens. Imagine a 6 X 4 video wall, with each screen receiving a feed directly from a different source. The sleek look of the video wall would be ruined with boxes and wires if not for a video matrix, which permits your audio visual integrator to run one cable from each screen, hidden within conduit in the walls, directly to the video matrix.

Similarly, let’s say you have 5 (or 25 or even 250) video screens in your venue. That would mean a lot of cable boxes, DirecTV hook-ups, Blu-Ray players and even PCs if you wanted the capability to play any source on any screen. A video matrix permits just a few components, which are fed in to the matrix and then sent out to any screen. (Remember our catchphrase: “Any source to any screen,” and you’ve got the idea.

With the sources housed in equipment rack enclosures near the video matrix, cable runs are shorter and it’s also easier to keep equipment cool. If there’s ever an issue with the video equipment, service is easier since all the components are housed in one location, out of sight of customers. Additionally, keeping all your video sources in one location and locked away from unauthorized personnel prevents damage to the equipment, as well as preventing from something as simple as someone changing the channel (inadvertently or on purpose) , which can really mess up the ambiance in your venue. These are small details that can make a big difference when you’re running a restaurant, club or sports bar serving with hundreds or even thousands of guests every day.

What to Look for in a Video Matrix
When your audio visual specialist selects the best matrix for your AV installation, he’ll consider aspects such as:

• Number of available inputs and outputs
• Types of inputs and outputs
• Features such as integrated audio routing, so the same switcher can route audio and video functions for your screens
• Easy expandability if your venue’s audio visual needs grow
• Which equipment provides the best value within your budget

Hiring an Audio Visual Specialist
Your audio visual specialist can hang your screens, run the cables, and install and program your video matrix along with all the necessary components.

In a best case scenario, you’ll hire an audio visual consultant at the pre-planning stage of your process. No one knows your business better than you do, but an AV consultant can help make sure your audio visual installation meets your venue’s needs and helps you accomplish your goals as a hospitality owner.