Making the Case for A/V Investment: How Universities Can Maximize Their A/V Budgets

These days, it’s typical for universities or college’s budgets to have a line item devoted to A/V equipment. But maximizing their A/V budgets with smart investments is key to implementing scalable, reliable, and future-ready AV solutions.

Since 1982, PCD Audio & Video’s specialists have excelled in designing and installing cutting-edge A/V technology throughout Northern California. With an extensive portfolio including several projects for higher education, PCD Audio & Video can bring lessons and lectures to life with innovative technology. Whether an institution needs a new A/V system or an upgrade to its current set-up, PCD Audio & Video’s experts install education-centric A/V with the utmost professionalism and efficiency.

Upgrading A/V for Higher Education

We enable tech managers at universities and colleges to invest efficiently in a more engaging learning environment with advanced presentation technology, interactive whiteboards, and integrated audio systems. They can oversee lighting, shading, and security across campus, all synced to a single, cohesive control system. PCD Audio & Video’s education-focused, cutting-edge solutions include:

Classrooms & Lecture Halls

• Interactive Displays or Projectors: Touchscreen monitors, smart whiteboards, and laser projectors for engaging teaching.

• Lecture Capture Systems: Cameras and microphones to record and stream lectures for remote or on-demand learning.

• Hybrid Learning Tech: Auto-tracking cameras, ceiling microphones, and integrated conferencing for in-person and remote students.

• Control Systems: Touchpanels to easily manage lighting, AV inputs, volume, and room scheduling.

• Acoustics & Audio Reinforcement: Ceiling or wall-mounted speakers and microphones for clear sound coverage.

Campus-Wide Digital Signage

• Wayfinding Displays: Interactive maps and directories in student centers, libraries, or large buildings.

• Emergency Alert Systems: Integrated digital signage and PA systems tied to emergency notification platforms.

• Event Promotion Boards: Rotating campus news, upcoming events, and student announcements.

Auditoriums & Event Spaces

• Large Format Displays / dvLED Walls: High-visibility video walls for ceremonies, guest lectures, and performances.

• Broadcast-Quality AV Systems: PTZ cameras, video switchers, and audio mixing gear for streaming and recording.

• Assistive Listening Systems: ADA-compliant tech for accessibility.

Labs & Research Environments

• Collaborative Video Conferencing: AV systems for connecting with remote researchers or institutions.

• Multi-display Visualization Walls: For data modeling, simulations, and immersive learning.

Student Life & Collaboration Spaces

• Huddle Rooms: Equipped with displays, wireless content sharing, and video conferencing for group work.

• Gaming & Esports Rooms: High-end AV setups for competitive and recreational use.

• Background Music & Paging Systems: Distributed audio for ambient sound and announcements in lounges or dining halls.

Security & Facility Integration

• Surveillance Integration: Coordination with security systems for camera feeds and access control.

• Access Panels & Intercoms: AV-based communication for entryways and security checkpoints.

UCC (Unified Communication & Collaboration)

• Video Conferencing Rooms: Microsoft Teams, Zoom, or Webex-native rooms with certified hardware.

• Help Desk / Call Center AV: Tech-enabled customer service areas for IT or student support.