High-Performance AV System for Critical Operations

Q: What does a nationwide AV integrator actually manage?

A nationwide AV integrator manages the full lifecycle across every site: technology standards, site surveys, engineering documentation, procurement, installation, commissioning, and ongoing support — not just equipment sales.

Q: How is a nationwide rollout different from a single-site AV project?

A single-site project designs for one room's conditions. A nationwide rollout defines approved room archetypes (huddle, conference, boardroom, training, etc.) that get applied consistently, with documented exceptions for site-specific constraints like room size or network policy.

Q: Do all rooms need identical equipment?

No. Standardization applies at the archetype level — a small huddle room and a large boardroom should follow different technology packages, but each package should be repeatable across every site that fits that archetype.

Q: Why does network readiness matter for AV projects?

AV-over-IP video, conferencing appliances, control processors, and digital signage all run as networked devices. Without early planning for VLANs, PoE budgets, and security policy, a well-specified system can still underperform once it's installed.

Q: What happens after installation?

Commissioning tests the system under real conditions — video routing, mic pickup, DSP tuning, and conferencing workflows — before handoff. After that, ongoing support (monitoring, maintenance, escalation) keeps performance consistent as firmware, platforms, and room use evolve.

INTRODUCTION

The Naval Sea Systems Command (NAVSEA) is the largest of the U.S. Navy's six system commands, responsible for engineering, building, buying, and maintaining ships, submarines, and combat systems. Creation Networks was selected to design, engineer, program, and support the deployment of a comprehensive AV system for a key NAVSEA auditorium. As a certified Small Business with deep expertise in government AV integration, Creation Networks provided end-to-end services — from initial system design through programming and remote installation support — ensuring the solution met stringent military reliability and performance requirements.

PROJECT NAME
NAVSEA Auditorium AV System

CHALLENGE

The primary challenge was to remotly deliver a stable and robust AV system capable of supporting high-stakes command operations with zero tolerance for downtime. Key requirements included:

Reliable, low-latency video matrix switching and video wall processing for mission-critical visual information.
Crystal-clear audio capture and reinforcement in a conference/auditorium setting.
High-quality video encoding/decoding for remote distribution.
Intuitive, centralized control that could be managed remotely.
Full remote installation and commissioning support to meet scheduling demands.

The system needed to integrate seamlessly with existing infrastructure while providing scalability and long-term maintainability under demanding government standards.

THE SOLUTION

Creation Networks performed the complete design, engineering, programming, and remote installation support for the project. Working closely with the NAVSEA team, we developed a fully integrated audiovisual architecture centered on Q-SYS for audio and unified control, paired with Extron for advanced video matrix and touch-panel control.

The solution emphasized redundancy and ease of operation. All components were procured, configured, and tested prior to shipment. Creation Networks engineers provided detailed programming of the Q-SYS Core and Extron control systems, along with remote commissioning assistance to ensure successful on-site deployment.

THE TECHNOLOGY

The system was built using best-in-class components selected for performance, reliability, and compatibility:

Video System (Extron)

Extron CrossPoint 6400 Series Video Matrix – High-bandwidth 4K video routing and switching.
Extron Ultra-High Bandwidth 4K Videowall Processor with HyperLane Bus.
Extron TLP Pro 1525TG Touch Link Panels – Tabletop control and video preview stations.

Audio & Unified Control System (Q-SYS)

Q-SYS Core 510i Integrated Core Processor.
Q-SYS CDN64 – Dante network audio interface.
Q-SYS CIMA4 & COL4 analog I/O cards for flexible microphone and line-level connectivity.
Shure MXA710B-4FT Linear Array Microphones – Premium beamforming audio capture.
Q-SYS TSC-80W-G2-BK 8" Touch Panels for intuitive local control.
Q-SYS UCI and Scripting Engine software licenses for advanced custom programming and automation.

Networking & Support

Cisco SG350-28MP PoE+ Managed Switch (substitute for EOL QSC model).

Creation Networks provided full system programming, including custom Q-SYS scripts, Extron control logic, and seamless integration between the audio, video, and control layers.

RESULTS

The deployed system exceeded expectations, delivering:

Uninterrupted performance with enterprise-grade reliability suitable for command-level operations.
Superior audio intelligibility through Shure beamforming microphones and Q-SYS processing.
Flexible video distribution with high-quality encoding/decoding and preview capabilities.
Simplified operation via intuitive Q-SYS touch panels and Extron control interfaces, enabling both local and remote management.
Successful remote installation support, allowing the NAVSEA team to complete deployment efficiently despite logistical challenges.

The solution has provided stable AV capabilities that support critical meetings, training, and operational coordination. NAVSEA now benefits from a modern, maintainable system backed by Creation Networks’ ongoing support expertise.

NEXT STEPS

Creation Networks is a full-service Small Business specializing in commercial audiovisual design, engineering, integration, programming, and support. With over 20 years of experience serving government, enterprise, and education clients, we deliver reliable, future-proof AV solutions nationwide.

Ready to upgrade your AV infrastructure? Visit our Case Studies or contact us at info@creationnetworks.net to discuss your project.