Audio over internet protocol (AoIP) transmits audio signals over IP networks. In other words, you can use your local area network (LAN) or the internet to transmit audio to an IP address or several IP addresses at once.
Audio over IP is used by businesses to enhance internal communications, but it’s also used by small and large broadcasters and recording studios to distribute high-quality audio. In this article, we’ll focus on the uses of AoIP and its benefits.
Uses of Audio Over IP and Its Benefits
Defence Against Intrusion
Unauthorised access to your facilities is of concern, and the less time intruders have to go about their “business,” the lower the potential for theft or damage. Smart network cameras that are able to analyse what they “see” can quickly identify unexpected activity or intrusion. This triggers alarms to alert security services.
However, voice broadcasts offer an additional deterrent that lets intruders know they’ve been spotted. Simply broadcasting a message informing them that law enforcement has been alerted and is on the way encourages them to make a rapid departure. This limits the potential for dealing with theft, damage to property, or threats affecting your personnel.
Alerting Personnel to Operational Anomalies
Cameras or sensors may pick up signs of trouble before failsafes kick in, bringing production lines to a halt. When personnel intervene promptly, they can limit disruption and damage to equipment, or even prevent workplace injuries that may otherwise have occurred.
Broadcasting alerts can allow for quicker responses, and once again, AoIP sends out warning messages far sooner than any person can. For example, it can alert employees to equipment that is overheating before it reaches a critical point, allowing them to avert a crisis.
Enhancing Efficiency
While predetermined procedures may be efficient, there are times when activities must be adjusted based on what is currently occurring. For example, if a conveyor belt system is currently being used to the full, it may be necessary to divert workflows temporarily. Once again, your IP cameras and AoIP can perform the vital monitoring role, instructing employees if it becomes necessary to change their routines.
Keeping Your People Safe at Work
When people work in potentially hazardous environments, a simple moment of forgetfulness can lead to accidents. Even trained individuals may place themselves or others at risk if they aren’t on high alert in hazardous areas. IP cameras can monitor workplaces, and verbal announcements reminding personnel of safe work procedures can be triggered under specific circumstances.
Despite your best efforts, emergencies in which you must urgently evacuate personnel can still occur. Once again, a combination of intelligent cameras and AoIP can help you to achieve safe and efficient evacuations. For example, cameras can monitor exits, and AoIP announcements can direct workers toward the most suitable evacuation routes.
If the situation changes, the system will instantly detect what has occurred and modify its messaging accordingly. So, while your certified evacuation routes are still essential, your AoIP system can let your people know whether it would be advisable to adopt alternatives.
Public Address and Logical Zone Management
Audio over IP simplifies zone management in public institutions like schools and universities by allowing each speaker to have its own IP address. Unlike analogue systems that require complex wiring and dedicated technical rooms, network audio uses Power over Ethernet (PoE) to connect and power speakers through standard network infrastructure. This enables easy grouping, isolation, and scheduling of announcements via a central dashboard. Schools can target messages to specific classrooms, improving communication efficiency. Additionally, centralised management allows for remote maintenance, health checks, and volume control, making it a cost-effective and scalable solution.
Multi-site Music Deployment
Audio over IP enables high-quality, digitally delivered music across multiple locations. Each network speaker is equipped with a digital signal processor that optimises the audio signal through advanced equalisation, filtering, and compression. This digital approach ensures pristine sound quality over long distances, making it ideal for hospitality and retail environments with geographically dispersed sites. Centralised control allows head offices to manage background music consistently, enhancing the customer experience without compromising on quality.
Industry-Specific Scenarios
The beauty of a combination of IP cameras and AoIP is that it can be set up to serve your context, regardless of what they may be. Working with technologists, you can indicate which mission-critical information must be monitored, and how AoIP should respond. With rapid reactions, the impact of malfunctions, industrial accidents, and unusual demands on systems can be minimised.
Requirements for an AoIP Network
From a technical perspective, the requirements for an advanced AoIP network are surprisingly minimalistic.
An IP network that is able to transmit the required data is an obvious necessity – should one not be in place, the necessary infrastructure can easily be installed.
Since AoIP transmits data in compressed packets, it requires switches that can handle a specific number of data packets per second. Once again, it’s a requirement that can easily be met with the help of trained technicians.
Ethernet cables that connect to the all-important speakers will be installed. In most instances, the installation process is not particularly complex.
Since voice messages are sent to specific IP addresses, the speakers and amplifiers that broadcast your crucial messages must be compatible with AoIP systems. And, when IP cameras are used for monitoring situations and triggering speakers, the necessary hardware and software must be installed.
Naturally, all these components must have access to a power supply. Power over ethernet solutions save on cabling installations by delivering connectivity and power through a single cabling system.
How to Implement an Audio Over IP System
Implementing an audio over IP system effectively requires an intimate knowledge of technology and security. At Advantex, we offer both skill sets under one roof. We’re trusted, certified service providers with a proven track record serving government organisations, manufacturing concerns, educational institutions, and transportation networks.
If you’d like to benefit from AoIP, our consultants will assist you with a best-fit solution. Reach out to Advantex and discover the advantages of working with a company that offers you end-to-end solutions covering all your technology needs.
