In a move to modernize its operations, Multnomah County engaged Hyphn to perform a full-scale overhaul of the AV systems in its boardroom. This project aimed to enhance the clarity and efficiency of county board meetings, providing sharper, crisper, and more reliable AV capabilities to support both in-person and virtual attendance.

The boardroom’s existing AV system was over 15 years old, though components of the system were updated as a stop-gap in 2021 following the shift back to in-person meetings after the COVID-19 pandemic. The outdated system was no longer capable of meeting the growing need for high-quality video and audio that can be livestreamed and recorded for posterity. A few of the standout features of this new system include:

AV over IP system, replacing the traditional setup that relied on analog cabling and extenders. This new system offers significant advantages, including improved scalability and flexibility. The system can be remotely monitored and individual components upgraded without the need for extensive rewiring or programming.
Auto Camera Preset Recall (ACPR) technology. This feature uses microphone input to automatically switch cameras and preset camera angles based on who is speaking. The result is a video stream that closely mimics the quality of a production team with a dedicated camera operator, providing virtual attendees with a more holistic experience.
New assistive technology, including a hearing loop and live captioning. Additionally, the ability to support virtual testimony greatly improves accessibility for county residents.

AV Upgrades for the Multnomah County Boardroom