Common AV Challenges And How To Overcome Them

Encountering AV problems in the middle of an event or presentation is something most people dread - and rightly so. Having your Wi-Fi drop, your speakers malfunction, or your video cut out at a crucial moment can be a nightmare, especially if you have no idea how to troubleshoot the issue.

While certain problems do require the expertise of an audio visual technician to solve, many can be resolved rapidly and effectively with just a little bit of know-how. In this post, we've taken a look at some common audio and video problems you may find yourself facing and some simple ways to address them:

Audio Problems

Even with proper planning and professional audio equipment, spontaneous audio issues can occasionally occur. Let's take a closer look at some of the most common issues and how to handle them:

Background Noise

Background noise can be incredibly distracting and really detract from engagement during a video conference.

Quick Fixes:

• Quiet your space as much as possible.
• Have all participants mute their microphones when not speaking.
• Use headphones to prevent speakers from feeding sound back into the microphone.
• Turn on "noise suppression" audio settings on conferencing software - for example, in Microsoft Teams.

Sound Seems Far Away

If sound seems far away, it's likely because it actually is!

Quick Fixes:

• Lean in and speak directly into the microphone.
• For video calls, consider using an external microphone that offers more directionality than your laptop mic.

Audio Feedback

Audio feedback, or an echo, often occurs when sound from the speaker is picked up by the microphone.

Quick Fixes:

• Move the microphone and speakers further apart.
• Lower the volume on the microphone.
• Use only one microphone at a time.
• For video conferencing equipment, have participants use headphones and/or mute themselves when not speaking.

Uneven Volume

When volume is jumping up and down, it can be tough to focus on the content being communicated.

Quick Fixes:

• Keep the microphone at a consistent distance from the speaker's mouth.
• Adjust input levels on your computer, mixer, or control systems to ensure they aren't too high or too low and achieve seamless integration.

Video Problems

There are few things more frustrating than trying to video chat or share a video and having your video freeze, lag, or play at low-quality resolution. Here are some tips for addressing common AV integration challenges head-on:

Frozen Or Choppy Video

• Ensure a stable internet connection.
• Switch to a wired Ethernet connection, if available.
• For virtual presentations, check that firewalls and security devices aren't altering your software meeting platform.

Low-Quality Image

• Play video from high-quality sources and set the resolution to HD or the highest possible setting to improve video quality.
• For video conferences, try cleaning your camera lens and sitting facing a light source to ensure your face is properly illuminated.

Processor Lagging

• Try rebooting your computer.
• If that doesn't work, launch the task manager to identify the source of the problem.

Quality AV Offers Onsite Technicians To Help Your Event Operate Problem-Free

Want to leave the hassle of troubleshooting AV technology problems to someone else? At Quality Audio Visual, our experienced audio visual technicians have got you covered. Tell us about your needs and we'll hook you up with everything you need - plus dedicated onsite support - to ensure your in-person or virtual event is seamless and issue-free! Contact us today to learn more.

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