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HDBaseT, fibre or AV over IP: choosing how to extend AV signals
By FS Vision
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HDBaseT: dependable up to 100 metres
HDBaseT carries video, audio and control over a single network cable (Cat5e or better), and some devices can also be powered over the same cable, at distances of up to about 100 metres. It suits point-to-point runs of moderate length in meeting rooms and classrooms.
Fibre: long runs and electrical noise
Beyond 100 metres, or where there is a lot of electromagnetic interference, fibre extension is the usual choice. Fibre reaches much further and is immune to interference, but cabling and termination need specialist work.
AV over IP: scale through the network
AV over IP sends audio-visual signals over Ethernet, so any source can be paired with any display. It suits sites with many signals that must be switched flexibly. Plan switch bandwidth, multicast configuration and the network as a whole before you deploy.
How to choose
Few signals within 100 metres: HDBaseT is usually the simplest. Long distances or harsh environments: consider fibre. Many signals and future growth: evaluate AV over IP. Real projects often mix them; the key is to write the requirements down first.