AV Distribution Comparison
Comparison Guide
In today's advancing world, it is easy to be swept up in the excitement of new products and technologies. In Pro AV, one misconception is that radio frequency (RF) video distribution systems would be completely replaced by Internet protocol (IP) video distribution. In reality, both IP and RF have benefits and drawbacks. The argument shouldn't be that AV over IP is better than AV over RF or vice versa, but about which technology best fits your application needs.
| AV over RF | AV over IP | Hybrid AV Solutions | |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Perception |
Older Technology | Digital, New, Shiney | The Best of Both Worlds |
|
Programming |
Digital channels, two streams per channel | Digital IP streams | Channels and Streams |
|
Capacity |
268 HD programs | 30 streams for 1G network | 268 HD programs and IP streams |
|
Encoding |
MPEG2 and/or H.264 | MPEG2 and/or H.264 | MPEG2 and/or H.264 |
|
Output |
Fully agile QAM 64/256 digital cable channels 2-135. 480i-1080p | Multicast or Unicast IPTV streams. 480i-1080p | Fully agile QAM 64/256 digital cable channels 2-135. 480i-1080p and Multicast or Unicast IPTV streams. 480i-1080p |
|
Decoding Needs |
RF operates using national TV standards – any HD TV or tuner can receive any standard digital channel. | There isn’t a set standard for IPTV. While H.264 is common standard, some manufacturers find ways to create proprietary streaming systems. Hardware or software decoders are required for viewing. | RF operates using national standards for encoding and decoding – any HD TV or tuner can receive any standard digital channel. While H.264 is common standard, some manufacturers find ways to create proprietary streaming systems. Hardware or software decoders are required for viewing. |
|
Cabling |
RF Coax, often already existing, and often a good solution for new builds | Existing Ethernet may not handle video streaming, better Category/fiber wiring and switches are required. | Can utilize existing RF coax while introducing new Ethernet and IP distribution over time. |
More Questions?
Looking for something else? At Contemporary Research we are always ready to help.
