IP-Based PA Systems: Why Institutions Are Making the Switch

Setting up a PA system is a challenging task. Offices, schools, hospitals, parking lots, and other institutions require an efficient PA system so it can easily communicate to everyone with minimal effort. Without a PA system, alerting anyone concerned would be a great challenge.

The old, analog PA system still works because it requires only a mic, amplifier, and distributed speakers to reach as many people as possible. It’s also relatively affordable and simpler to set up, even for those only familiar with basic audio systems.

But analog PA systems often face a maintenance challenge. Cable problems and diagnosing which malfunctioning speakers are always a challenge. While the initial cost is low, the maintenance cost is high and time-consuming.

Using an IP Audio System

Businesses and institutions of any size are now implementing IP audio for their PA system. It’s relatively expensive considering the hardware required to implement this type of audio system, but it’s extremely versatile (depending on the setup), scalable, and has simpler maintenance requirements.

As the name suggests, this type of PA system assigns an IP address to every speaker. This feature is a significant advantage because it enables better audio transmission (with improved quality) and enhanced monitoring. Network administrators will immediately notice any malfunctioning IP speaker because it will instantly register in their network.

Taking Advantage of Current Network Systems

One of the reasons businesses and institutions are implementing IP audio as their PA system is that most of these institutions already have a well-functioning network system. Using the same network, administrators can attach IP speakers and use applicable software.

There are generally two types of PA over IP implementation, and each has its advantages and challenges: SIP and RTP-centric systems. Both can be implemented as a hybrid.

SIP and/or RTP IP Audio Systems

SIP (Session Initiation Protocol) PA System is an extremely versatile PA system due to its capability to connect to specific speakers. Hospitals often take full advantage of this type of PA system because it allows them to announce to a group of people without disturbing the others.

SIP is basically a phone system that automatically connects to the receiver. Through this protocol, the audio source can “dial” to its intended receiver (speakers) and commence the announcement once the connection is confirmed. It also uses less bandwidth, helping improve communication between devices.

RTP, on the other hand, is essentially similar to an analog PA system. But instead of using traditional coaxial cables, its audio is transmitted over Ethernet and uses multicast to communicate with multiple IP audio devices simultaneously. It’s highly recommended for smaller and direct-to-audio setups, but it will require a higher bandwidth.

Hybrid and Proprietary Systems

Because each IP-based PA system offers its own advantages, hybrid setups are commonly used in larger installations. There are also proprietary systems specializing in IP-based audio communication to multiple devices. These proprietary systems are relatively easier to set up, as their software handles most of the work involved in configuring each connected device.

Implementing an IP-based PA system is a relatively complex task, as it requires additional hardware and software to use the existing network environment. However, their versatility and reliability have made it a worthwhile upgrade, especially to institutions that rely on these systems for communication.