Unless you are hiring a professional AV company, like PSAV, you might want to know the tricks to installing any kind of basic AV equipment in a trade show or conference environment. For example, do you know the output difference between VGA and HDMI? Wi-Fi is a great option at home or in the office, but is it really the best option for your internet needs at the show?
Let’s start with the basics – DVD player or USB?
USB sticks are very easy to connect to a secondary screen as long as your screen accepts USB sticks and allows you to set them to loop. This is why it is always important to check and test everything before you leave the office. If your screen does not allow for USBs then you can usually accomplish the same thing with a DVD player or computer.
If you're looking to connect a computer or interactive table to a TV or monitor within your booth, your choices are HDMI, DVI, and VGA.
What's the best connection? HDMI is the more common answer. An HDMI cable transfers both sound and video through one cable versus an old school VGA or DVI cable that only transfers video. The key is in knowing what ports your output and input devices have. Older TVs and monitors may only allow for VGA. If your device does not have an HDMI port then purchase an adaptor, but make sure you test the connection and performance before you ship to the show.
Wireless or Hard Wired?
Most companies elect to only purchase Wi-Fi at the event because it is cheaper, and what doesn’t work on Wi-Fi these days anyways. While that may be true you need to look at the overall requirements of your booth. If you plan to run multiple devices in your booth that will be streaming many website sites, then you should consider a hard wired Ethernet connection. A hard wired connection, via a Cat5 cable, will give you better, faster and more reliable connection. The show will normally offer you multiple options for Ethernet so don’t hesitate to call and ask questions to find the best fit for your needs.
If your head is spinning and you still aren’t sure what options are the best for your booth – call your display house or contact Apple Rock. Our consultants and project managers have years of hands-on experience with integrated technology, plus we have dedicated technology experts on staff to help our clients with all their technology need. After all, we are here to help you look good and become a #LeadsChamp.