How Poor Access Control Planning Leads to Costly System Failures

Access control systems are critical for securing buildings, protecting assets, and ensuring the safety of occupants. These systems manage who can enter specific areas, monitor activity, and integrate with other security and building management systems. However, when planning and designing... Read more

Types of Fire Alarm Systems: Which One Is Right for You

Fire safety is a critical aspect of any building, whether it is a residential home, commercial office, or industrial facility. Choosing the right Fire Alarm System can mean the difference between early warning and catastrophic damage. With advancements in technology,... Read more

Ceiling Speaker Setup for Outdoor Patios and Covered Areas: 2025 Tips

Outdoor entertainment has become a staple of modern living, with patios, decks, and covered areas serving as extensions of our indoor spaces. At XTEN-AV, we emphasize that the right Ceiling Speakers setup can transform your outdoor area into a dynamic... Read more

Projector Layout Planning: Distance, Height, and Angles

A flawless home theater experience is more than just picking a high-quality projector. XTEN-AV emphasizes that achieving the Perfect Projector Layout involves careful planning of distance, height, and angles. Proper placement ensures sharp images, immersive viewing, and minimal distortion, transforming... Read more

Acoustic Considerations in AV System Design

In any professional audiovisual setup, sound is just as important as visuals. No matter how advanced your display systems or control technologies are, poor acoustics can ruin the entire experience. That is why understanding acoustics is a vital part of... Read more

Compare ConnectCAD pricing to alternative AV schematic / signal flow tools

Choosing the right AV schematic and signal flow tool means balancing features, workflow fit, and total cost of ownership. One common decision point for AV teams is whether to invest in Vectorworks ConnectCAD or pick an alternative that focuses on... Read more

How Edge Computing Improves Access Control Speed

In the era of smart buildings and connected security, speed and efficiency are paramount. Organizations rely heavily on Access Control Systems to manage entry, monitor activity, and protect sensitive areas. Traditional centralized systems, however, can suffer from latency issues and... Read more

How to Draw an Electrical Schematic Step by Step

Drawing a clear and accurate electrical schematic is one of the most important skills for anyone working in AV design, engineering, or installation. A schematic acts as the blueprint of a system, showing how every component is connected and how... Read more

What Happens If the Projector Is Too Far

Proper projector placement is essential for achieving the optimal image size, brightness, and clarity. One common issue is positioning the projector too far from the screen. When the projector is placed at an excessive distance, several problems can arise, affecting... Read more

How Can I Optimize Throw Distance for a Home Cinema

Creating a home cinema requires careful planning to achieve the best possible viewing experience. One of the most critical factors is optimizing the projector throw distance. Throw distance determines the size, clarity, and overall quality of the projected image. If... Read more