Details
Challenge
While the world was rapidly changing to a new and unknown landscape in early 2020, everyone was trying to determine the best way to address the challenges of COVID-19. We’re all much more educated about how to best mitigate the risks of the virus these days, but in the days of disinfecting every package and grocery item that came into the house, there was a lot yet to learn.
Higher education institutions were grappling with decisions on how to best keep students on track in their coursework, and whether or not to invest in long-term distance-learning systems when no one knew just how long the crisis would last.
Through a competitive RFP process, CCS Texas was selected by Texas A&M University to outfit learning spaces that did not have AV systems prior to the pandemic.
Solution
Using CARES Act funding, Texas A&M secured just over 300 Vaddio RoboSHOT 12E HDBT cameras with OneLINK Bridge systems in two batches. Ben Pickrel, President of CCS Texas, noted while other universities were putting temporary camera solutions in place, Texas A&M had a good vision.
“This solution supported Texas A&M’s ability to pivot to the immediate remote requirements and supported the future development of a hybrid teaching model,” he said.
Vaddio cameras were selected due to their flexibility and ease in fitting each scenario.
Since the cameras can use a PoE connection to deliver power and video over one line from the podium, rooms can be equipped much faster than with the required planning for new electrical receptacles.
In addition to the cameras, a fleet of Fusion carts from Chief was launched in 2021 to add distance learning on parts of campus without previous capabilities to do so, including small graduate-level classrooms.
Ease of use was a major factor. With minimal training, instructors can use the cameras to help enhance the learning dynamics of the classroom. Some faculty save their favorite presets to take full advantage of the learning space to engage students both in the room and participating remotely.
Rounding out the order from one Legrand | AV source were Luxul managed switches, Middle Atlantic UPS backup power, Vaddio RoboSHOT 30E cameras with OneLINK Bridge systems, and various accessories to fully customize the systems.
Results
For the life of a lead programmer, there’s a satisfaction in turning over the rooms they don’t directly manage to other staff and rarely hearing from them again. No news is good news when it comes to servicing rooms.
Pickrel noted how the benefits will be enjoyed for years to come.
“Developing strong working relationships built on the basis of quality products and reliable customer service sets the foundation for successful projects like this,” Pickrel said. “When you have to react quickly, you want to be mindful decisions today will ultimately impact future installations and capabilities.”
