Space Planning White Paper Preview

Space Planning An Introduction To Space Planning for Audio/Video Systems Electronics Design Group EDGonline.com EDGWhitePapers.com TheArchitectsEDGe.com

Why is AV Important? Using and integrating technology creates possibilities. One part art, another part science, AV systems are used to communicate and entertain, and provide comfort, security, and ambience. The convergence of architectural design and AV technologies creates opportunities for integrating form and function in innovative ways—from sophisticated conference rooms and private screening rooms to the ambiance of lighting and entertainment solutions. AV technology plays a pivotal role in bringing your visions to life. AV is no longer an afterthought, but rather, an important planning element in the design process.

Š 2010 Electronics Design Group, Inc.

www.EDGonline.com

732.650.9800

Challenges

“This white paper defines ten guiding criteria that can be used ... in the allocation of space for electronics.�

Š 2010 Electronics Design Group, Inc.

Historically, space planning for audio and video systems has been a haphazard process. Electronics systems contractors have not always done their best at allocating and communicating the need for things like wire management, termination space for that wire, thermal load, equipment requirements, and serviceability. Additionally, electronics systems contractors do not have an inspecting body to oversee implementation criteria. Lack of communication, lack of knowledge, and the lack of an inspecting body have resulted in poorly designed products, unreliable systems, missed client expectations, and reduced lifespan of electronic components.

This white paper defines ten guiding criteria that can be used by architects, designers, and other electronic systems contractors in the allocation of space for electronics. The goal is to achieve a properly designed product for the end user, and to show how these criteria effect successful outcomes on the highest profile projects. We have included four case studies, noting applications in a wide variety of situations: from a space restricted New York City apartment, to a large New Jersey estate home with ample space for a dedicated electronics room.

Each space is graded using the ten criteria noted below.

All criteria carry equal weight and each is worth ten points towards the total score for the room or space. We recognize that it is not always possible for every space to be perfect (although we wish they could be!). With this in mind, there is room for calculated error in the design process. If a room falls under 80% on the overall score it is considered a failing space. A score of over 80% is a passing grade, and indicates a functional space for housing electronics systems.

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Š 2010 Electronics Design Group, Inc.

www.EDGonline.com

About EDG For more than 20 years, EDG has been a one-stop provider of home theater and technology consulting services, engineering and implementation. We deliver solutions to clients making critical decisions on home theater construction, and design innovative solutions incorporating the latest software and control system technology. EDG provides expertise in all aspects of residential and corporate environments, including whole-house audio/video systems, home automation, home theater acoustics, media room design, lighting control systems, HVAC, telecommunications and motorized control of shades, lifts, gates, and other mechanical devices.

Š 2010 Electronics Design Group 60 Ethel Road STE 5 Piscataway, NJ 08854 732.650.9800

www.TheArchitectsEdge.com

Š 2010 Electronics Design Group, Inc.

www.EDGonline.com