Transforming Video Distribution with AV over IP
TECHNOLOGY & COMMUNICATIONS
SECTOR
TECHNOLOGY & COMMUNICATIONS
SOLUTION
BLUSTREAM & NETGEAR
LOCATION
LONDON
Project Overview:
Across corporate, hospitality, education, and entertainment environments, audio-visual technology has become a critical enabler of communication and collaboration. Audiences now expect seamless, high-quality video and audio delivery, whether in a hotel ballroom, university lecture hall, or corporate boardroom.
However, many legacy AV systems are struggling to meet these expectations. Traditional matrix-based HDMI or HDBaseT solutions are limited in distance, scalability, and flexibility, while the cost of upgrading centralised switching hardware grows exponentially as systems expand.
For these reasons, Runtech has adopted AV over IP (Video over IP) as the foundation of its video distribution strategy. By combining Blustream AV over IP endpoints with Netgear AV Line switches, we deliver systems that are scalable, flexible, reliable, and future-ready.
The Challenge with Traditional Video Distribution
Traditional AV distribution relies on large, centralised matrix switchers and point-to-point cabling. While effective for small, static installations, this model presents significant challenges in modern environments:
- Distance limitations – HDMI requires extenders beyond 15m, which adds cost and complexity.
- Scalability issues – Expanding from an 8×8 matrix to 16×16 means replacing the entire switch, even if only one extra input/output is needed.
- Flexibility gaps – Routing sources and displays is fixed, requiring expensive engineering to adapt to new needs.
- Single point of failure – If the matrix fails, the entire system fails.
- Integration barriers – Legacy systems often don’t align with IT infrastructure or modern control platforms.
Clients need a distribution model that matches the flexibility and scalability of their operations.
The Solution: AV over IP
Benefits:
Unlimited scalability – add encoders and decoders as needed.
Any-to-any routing – any input can be delivered to any output dynamically.
Unlimited distance – extend across buildings or campuses over fibre.
Redundancy and reliability – no single point of failure like a matrix switch.
Cost efficiency – leverages existing IT networks and cabling standards.
Future-proofing – supports 4K UHD, HDR, and evolving formats.
Why Blustream?
- Reliable, proven encoder/decoder 350 range endpoints supporting 4K UHD with HDR.
- Ultra-low latency and seamless switching.
- Integration with industry-leading control systems.
- Flexible options (wall plates, rack units, etc.) to match installation needs.
Why Netgear?
- AV Line switches (M4250/M4300/M4500) optimised for multicast traffic.
- Preconfigured profiles for AV standards such as SDVoE, Dante AV, and NDI.
- Silent or low-noise models for hospitality and corporate settings.
- Simplified deployment with built-in IGMP and QoS optimisation.
Real-World Applications
Hilton Wembley
Context
Hilton Wembley’s ballroom is a flagship events space hosting conferences, banquets, and corporate functions. The existing AV infrastructure had become almost redundant due to ageing analogue technology, limited inputs, and unreliable video distribution.
Challenges
Ageing Infrastructure
Not supporting modern 4K video
Poor User Experience
For hotel staff due to complexity
Limited Flexibility
Limited flexibility in handling multiple rooms and event configurations
Budget Restrictions
Requiring a phased upgrade (Phase 1 video/control, Phase 2 projectors and audio hardware)
The Solution Implemented
Runtech designed and installed a Blustream + Netgear AV over IP solution:
- Video distribution: Blustream encoders in each room and decoders at every projector, creating a dynamic IPTV matrix.
- Inputs: Simplified wall plates (HDMI for laptops, XLR for events).
- Network backbone: Netgear AV Line switches supporting 30-port IPTV matrix for scalability.
- Cabling: Upgraded to CAT6A, future-proofing the infrastructure.
- Audio: Transitioned to Dante via Biamp DSP while retaining legacy microphones/speakers to manage costs.
- Control: AMX system delivering intuitive operation (power, source routing, room combining, volume).
- Support: SLA provided to ensure ongoing reliability and staff confidence.
Results
- Improved reliability: Replaced failing legacy infrastructure with modern AV over IP.
- Flexibility: Any source can now be routed to any projector, with room combining supported.
- Simplified operation: Hotel staff can control AV functions through a clean, user-friendly interface.
- Cost efficiency: Existing hardware was retained where possible, while still delivering a future-ready backbone.
- Future-proofing: The IPTV matrix and cabling allow easy scaling and integration of new equipment in Phase 2.
Credit Lyonnais Securities Asia, City of London
Context
CLSA, a leading capital markets and investment group, recently relocated to one of London’s landmark skyscrapers. A key requirement was a modern, flexible video distribution system to support multiple floors and shared spaces, replacing limited legacy infrastructure.
Challenges
Legacy Point-To-Point
Video distribution not fit for a large new office.
Complex Distribution
Need to distribute live TV and video sources across trading floors, reception, café, and meeting areas
Strict Building Logistics
Strict building logistics with delivery restrictions and narrow access routes
Future Scalability
Requirement for future scalability without expensive re-cabling
The Solution Implemented
Runtech deployed an AV over IP solution using Blustream encoders/decoders and Netgear AV Line switches:
- IPTV matrix enabling any video source to be routed to any display dynamically.
- 4K commercial displays across trading floor, café, and reception areas.
- IPTV decoders and encoders for SKY TV, with allowance for future sources (Apple TV, Chromecast, etc.).
- Managed multicast via Netgear AV Line switch for seamless, reliable video distribution.
- Infrastructure designed for easy expansion, simply by adding encoders/decoders.
Results
- Scalability – additional sources and screens can be added without replacing central hardware.
- Flexibility – reception, trading floor, and café screens can be independently controlled or synchronised.
- Future-proofing – 4K UHD-ready distribution over standard CAT6A cabling.
- Reliability – resilient IPTV system built to handle mission-critical environments like trading floors.
Conclusion
By adopting AV over IP solutions powered by Blustream and Netgear, Runtech has transformed how clients manage video distribution.
These real-world examples show how the approach delivers:
- Scalability to grow with client needs.
- Flexibility for hybrid meeting rooms, event spaces, and corporate environments.
- Reliability to support mission-critical operations.
- Simplicity for end users through intuitive control.
- Future readiness for 4K, HDR, and beyond.
The Hilton Wembley and Credit Lyonnais Securities Asia projects, alongside deployments at Park Plaza and Twickenham Stadium, demonstrate that this model works across hospitality, corporate, and financial services, making AV over IP a proven solution for the next generation of video distribution.
DOWNLOAD CASE STUDY
To request a copy of the full case study via email, please complete the form below.
HAVE AN AV PROJECT IN MIND?
Even if you’re in the early stages of planning a new project, our team will be happy to help get you started.
+44 (0) 203 640 6030