KNOW YOUR AV

Welcome to the Stapes Knowledge Base. This section is designed to provide clear and concise explanations of common concepts, technologies, and components found in professional audio, video, and conferencing systems. Whether you're a first-time user or a seasoned integrator, the following FAQs will help you understand the basics and beyond.

1. What is Dante?

 

Dante (Digital Audio Network Through Ethernet) is an advanced audio-over-IP networking solution developed by Audinate. It allows the transmission of high-quality, uncompressed digital audio with near-zero latency across standard Ethernet networks.

Key Benefits:

• Replace bulky analog cabling with a single CAT5e/6 cable

• Route audio to multiple devices through software without physical patching

• Automatically synchronize all audio streams with low latency

• Scalable for small boardrooms to large stadiums

Dante is widely used in conference systems, audio installations, live sound, and broadcast environments.

2. What is DSP?

 

DSP stands for Digital Signal Processing. It refers to the manipulation of audio signals using a dedicated microprocessor to enhance sound quality, remove noise, and apply effects in real-time.

Common DSP Functions:

• Equalization (EQ)

• Echo Cancellation (AEC)

• Automatic Gain Control (AGC)

• Feedback Suppression

• Compression and Limiting

In conferencing systems, DSP ensures every voice is heard clearly and consistently across all speakers and microphones.

3. What is Audio Gain?

Gain refers to the initial amplification of an audio signal. It determines how much the input signal (e.g., from a microphone) is increased before it undergoes further processing.

Tips for Setting Gain:

• Use proper gain staging: input gain should be high enough to avoid noise but not so high that it causes distortion.

• Adjust gain separately from volume: gain affects signal quality; volume affects output loudness.

Incorrect gain settings can lead to noise floor issues or audio clipping.

4. Microphone Pickup Types

 

Pickup pattern defines the directional sensitivity of a microphone. Choosing the right pattern improves sound pickup and reduces unwanted noise.

Main Types:

• Omnidirectional: Picks up sound equally from all directions. Good for group discussions.

• Cardioid: Captures sound from the front, minimizing background noise. Ideal for speech.

• Supercardioid/Hypercardioid: Tighter directional focus with minimal rear pickup.

• Bidirectional (Figure-8): Captures sound from the front and rear, rejecting the sides. Useful for interviews.

5. Conference Systems Installation Types

 

Stapes offers a variety of conference system installations to suit different environments:

1. Wired Tabletop Systems – Best for permanent installations in boardrooms. 2. Wireless Systems – Perfect for flexible or temporary setups. 3. Flush-Mounted Systems – Discreetly integrated into tables or furniture. 4. Ceiling-Mounted Systems – Ideal for large or open spaces without obstructions. 5. Hybrid Systems – A mix of the above to cater to complex needs or legacy integrations.

6. What is a Table Array Microphone?

 

A Table Array Microphone contains multiple microphone capsules arranged in a pattern, enabling advanced beamforming and 360° audio pickup.

Features:

• Smart voice tracking

• Suppresses unwanted noise

• Seamlessly integrates with DSP systems

They are ideal for boardrooms, video conferencing, and huddle spaces where speech clarity is crucial.

7. Condenser vs. Dynamic Microphones

 

Condenser Microphones:

• More sensitive and accurate

• Require external power (phantom power)

• Used for vocals, conferencing, studio applications

Dynamic Microphones:

• Rugged and less sensitive

• Don’t require external power

• Used for live sound, speeches, or noisy environments

Choosing the right type depends on the environment and application needs.

8. Why are PTZ Cameras Important?

 

PTZ (Pan-Tilt-Zoom) cameras allow motorized movement and zooming to focus on speakers, presenters, or events in real-time.

Advantages:

• Covers wide areas with fewer units

• Auto-tracking capabilities

• Remote control via software or joystick

• Smooth transitions between presets

These are essential in smart conference rooms, auditoriums, and hybrid learning setups.

9. What Does 10X / 20X Zoom Mean?

 

The "X" refers to how much closer a camera can bring the subject compared to its widest view.

• 10X Zoom: Brings objects 10 times closer

• 20X Zoom: Brings objects 20 times closer

Higher zoom levels are crucial for large rooms, lecture halls, and auditoriums where the speaker may be far from the camera.