Planning for all aspects of a new installation can be overwhelming, but successful preparation is crucial to ensuring the best results for any AV project. Whether it's time to upgrade existing signage or install an unparalleled dvLED video wall, here are some best practices to keep in mind during the installation process.
Choosing the Right AV Solutions
Before starting an AV installation, it’s important to consider both function and placement. For example, will this solution be placed outdoors with exposure to environmental elements, harsh lighting, or extreme temperatures? In this case, it’s important to seek out AV products that are all-weather certified and have an Ingress Protection (IP) rating of IP66 or higher to ensure durability and high-quality performance.
Other things to consider include the installation purpose, such as what type of content the solution will be showcasing and how the content impacts the overall user experience? These factors are helpful to determine the type of display and mount system needed, as well as determining the overall size of the project.
Pre-Installation Preparation
Once the correct product for the job has been selected, installers must consider the site of the installation. If the site of the installation has already been constructed, plan a visit to compare initial installation plans. This creates an opportunity to adjust the original design and ensure the final plan aligns with the space if needed. This also allows installers to take preliminary measurements, view the different lighting and angles that may affect the quality of the display(s), and note any spatial challenges that need to be addressed. These aspects take time, but are critical to ensuring the installation is efficient and accurate.
Ensuring Accuracy
It is key to triple-check measurements to achieve precision when completing the installation. Confirm any wall surfaces involved, including areas around the immediate installation site, adhere to the guidelines of construction tolerances. According to the Handbook of Construction Tolerance, +/- ¼” in 10′ is ideal for light-frame construction. Additionally, walls should not be more than ¼” out of plumb for any 32″ vertical measurement.
Choosing the Best Install Partner
When possible, selecting a trusted partner with expertise in the specific type of project being constructed makes all the difference. Choose an installer who can provide the correct AV solutions for the job, and offer assistance with the installation and post-installation support. While appealing, avoid installers offering the lowest price as this often may indicate low-quality work. Although installations can be pricey, ensuring each of the previous steps is completed along with the assistance of an esteemed contractor and quality products, an exceptional result is guaranteed.
Creating an incredible result that meets all of the aesthetic goals and technical requirements is possible with the proper preparation and expertise. Follow these best practices for your next AV installation to plan for success!
By Rob Meiner, Technical Sales Engineer, Peerless-AV
