Global Alumni Utilizes Extron Systems to Revolutionize Educational Technology at Global Bridge Cambridge

When it comes to AV design, ease of use and flexibility are paramount. Another key factor is the global and high-quality support that Extron can offer.

Global Alumni, a pioneering Euro-American EdTech company, set out to revolutionize education with the creation of the Global Bridge Cambridge, an immersive telepresence room located in Cambridge, Massachusetts. As the world’s largest immersive telepresence room, the facility aims to enhance the educational experience for key institutions like the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) by blending cutting-edge technology with seamless global connectivity.

To bring this ambitious project to life, Global Alumni partnered with Epsilon Media, a trusted AV integrator, to design and implement the facility’s AV infrastructure. By incorporating a powerful combination of Extron audio and video technologies, they created a cutting-edge learning space that seamlessly blends physical and digital environments, enabling immersive, interactive, and personalized experiences for students and educators worldwide.

CHALLENGES

Creating the world’s largest immersive telepresence room posed unique technical challenges. Global Alumni envisioned a space that could simultaneously host up to 300 online participants on a life-sized screen while accommodating up to 100 in-person attendees. The goal was to merge physical and virtual learning environments seamlessly, providing an engaging, multisensory experience that can accommodate a wide range of learning styles.

This ambitious vision required a robust AV infrastructure to support the integration of various advanced technologies, including tele-immersion 3D technology, augmented reality (AR), virtual reality (VR), and real-time special effects. The system would have to provide reliable, high-quality video and audio transmission across long distances. In addition, the room's audio system needed to deliver clear and immersive sound, critical for maintaining engagement and understanding in such a dynamic educational setting.

Given these requirements, Global Alumni required an AV solution that combined reliability, ease of use, and the flexibility to manage complex multimedia content seamlessly. They also wanted a scalable system to allow for future enhancements as educational technologies evolve.

DESIGN SOLUTION

AV integrator Epsilon Media designed and installed the Global Bridge Cambridge AV system using a range of Extron products to meet the project's stringent demands.

The AV system features the Extron Quantum Ultra 4K videowall processor for high-resolution displays and the IPCP Pro 350 for centralized control. Audio is managed by the DMP 128 Plus processor, with XPA U 2002 SB and XPA 4002 amplifiers powering SM 28T speakers and SF 10C SUB subwoofers.

“When it comes to AV design, ease of use and flexibility are paramount,” says Javier Ballesteros, CEO of Epsilon Media. “Another key factor is the global and high-quality support that Extron can offer.”

Central AV Processing and Control

At the core of the AV system is the Extron Quantum Ultra 4K videowall processor. This modular processor features Extron's Vector™ 4K scaling engine and HyperLane® video bus, capable of delivering real-time, high-resolution video across multiple displays. The Quantum Ultra processor is equipped with input and output cards that handle various video sources, ensuring that the large-scale display can accommodate the needs of both remote and in-person participants.

An Extron IPCP Pro 350 control processor, enhanced with a User Interface Upgrade LinkLicense, enables users to control the entire system wirelessly using a tablet and the Extron Control app.

Signal Switching and Long Distance Transmission

To handle the large room’s high-performance signal distribution needs, the system incorporates an Extron DXP HD 4K PLUS HDMI matrix switcher and an Extron DA4 HD 4K PLUS amplifier to reliably deliver 4K content with support for HDR, Deep Color, and HDCP 2.3 compliance, ensuring signal integrity across multiple outputs.

Extron DTP HDMI 4K Series transmitters and receivers are used to extend HDMI, audio, and control signals over shielded CATx cable, allowing seamless connectivity between distant AV components. Additionally, the Extron SW4 USB Pro switcher enables smooth switching between USB peripherals and multiple host devices.

All together, these components provide a streamlined solution for both signal management and long-distance transmission in the immersive learning environment.

Audio Distribution and Processing

To achieve the room's immersive audio experience, Epsilon Media used the Extron DMP 128 Plus digital matrix processor. This processor features Extron's ProDSP™ 64-bit floating-point technology, which ensures accurate audio signal processing and distribution throughout the space. The DMP 128 Plus supports multiple channels of audio input and output, allowing for flexible routing and management of various audio sources, including microphones and media players.

The system includes Extron XPA U 2002 SB and XPA 4002 amplifiers, with the XPA U 2002 SB powering the subwoofers and the XPA 4002 driving the ceiling speakers. Together, these amplifiers ensure clear, high-quality audio throughout the space.

Immersive Sound Environment

To deliver a rich, full-spectrum sound experience, the room features multiple Extron SM 28T surface-mount speakers and SF 10C SUB subwoofers. The SM 28T speakers are strategically positioned to provide uniform sound coverage, while the SF 10C SUB subwoofers enhance the low-frequency audio, adding depth and realism to the immersive experience. This combination ensures that all participants, whether in the room or online, enjoy clear and impactful audio.

RESULTS

The immersive room incorporates various sensory stimuli, aiding comprehension and retention. Visuals, sounds, and physical motions create a holistic learning environment. The room's advanced AV technology encourages interactivity and supports a wide range of various teaching and learning styles.

“My long-standing experience with Extron is one factor influencing the selection of them as an AV equipment supplier,” says Ballesteros. “Through standardization, we ensure consistency across setups which streamlines installation, AV control programming, and troubleshooting.”

Epsilon Media ensured a smooth installation process, completing the setup in around two and a half months. The entire AV system is designed for reliability and ease-of-use. Users find the system easy to adjust and use, enhancing engagement and productivity.

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