throughput is essential to prevent bottlenecks when multiple ports are transmitting simultaneously. Support for Internet Group Management Protocol (IGMP) snooping and querier functionality helps manage multicast traffic efficiently, reducing unnecessary network congestion. Deep packet buffers can mitigate packet loss during traffic bursts, while low latency switching ensures timely delivery of real-time signals. Port-level configurations also play a critical role in improving efficiency for compressed or encoded video formats, while dedicated ports to specific VLANs helps isolate traffic types and streamline management. Disabling energy-efficient Ethernet (EEE) may be advisable in latency-sensitive applications, as power-saving transitions can introduce delays. While energy efficiency is an important consideration, these options help ensure the network can support diverse applications reliably and responsively. INFRASTRUCTURE IMPLEMENTATION The team selected shielded twisted pair (STP) copper cabling for shorter runs and single-mode optical fiber cabling for longer distances. STP was used for AV signal transmission over relatively short cable runs. At the same time, single-mode optical fiber was selected for its ability to support high bandwidth over extended distances with minimal signal degradation. Optical fiber infrastructure is particularly effective in avoiding degradation caused by attenuation, crosstalk, and electromagnetic interference—issues that are more common in copper-based systems. Optical fiber was essential for long-distance connections between intermediate distribution frames (IDF) and the main distribution frame (MDF). Together, these cabling systems formed the backbone of the AV infrastructure, supporting the distribution of high-resolution signals including video, audio, and control data (Figures 2 and 3). Plenum-rated Category 6 shielded twisted pair (STP) copper cabling was implemented for shorter runs within equipment rooms, classrooms, and control spaces. To simplify installation and reduce the need for additional power supplies, the transmitters and receivers are remotely powered by the connected matrix switchers over the shielded twisted pair cable.
Copper cabling is routed through a combination of open ladder cable trays and metal conduits, depending on location and code requirements. Ladder trays provide accessible pathways for cable management in overhead spaces, while metal conduits are used in areas requiring enhanced fire protection and seismic resilience. The structured cabling design aligned with ISO/IEC 007 and ANSI/TIA-862 standards, ensuring compatibility with building infrastructure and future AV over IP deployments. The use of ANSI/NECA/BICSI 568 guidelines for telecommunications pathways between IDF and the main distribution frame (MDF) further supports the system’s long-distance signal integrity and scalability. AV SIGNAL ROUTING AND DISTRIBUTION The AV infrastructure at the stadium was designed around a modular signal routing system built on four high-capacity digital matrix switchers, two located on the first floor, one on the second, and one on the fourth. These matrix switchers are interconnected to form a unified AV backbone that spans all four levels of the facility. The first and second floor send two video feeds to the fourth-floor switcher, which also manages distribution for the third floor. In turn, the fourth floor sends two output feeds back down to the first and second floors, enabling coordinated content routing across the entire complex. The central matrix switcher, housed in the equipment room on the fourth floor, supports the stadium’s videowall, digital signage, and AV-enabled rooms on that level. The system manages a variety of video formats and enables both local and remote signal extension. AV signals are distributed over STP copper and single-mode optical fiber cabling, with optical fiber used for longer runs and STP for shorter distances. AV transmitters and receivers are compact hardware devices that encode and decode video, audio, and control signals for transport over network cabling. Typically, they are located near source devices and convert AV signals for transmission over STP or optical fiber. Receivers are typically placed near display devices or audio systems and decode the signals for playback. Many models also support control signals
FIGURE 2 : The stadium’s AV infrastructure utilizes hybrid signal distribution for reliable signal integrity and high-resolution video and audio. Source: Extron
FIGURE 3: Single-mode optical fiber cable is used for the long cable run from the control room on the complex’s 4 th floor to the scoreboard. Source: Extron
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ICT TODAY
October/November/December 2025
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