The Introduction
Through meaningful advocacy, outreach, and community investments, the California Community Foundation (CCF) is focused on finding long-term, comprehensive solutions that address vital issues concerning the quality of life in Los Angeles County.
Learn More: https://www.calfund.org/
The Challenge
The California Community Foundation sought a full-scale upgrade of its audio visual (AV) infrastructure to better support hybrid collaboration, user-friendly operation, future scalability, and broadcast-quality communication across multiple floors of its facility. The goal was to improve usability, video conferencing experience, wireless presentation capabilities, and ensure seamless integration of all systems under a central control platform.
Visual Sound was selected as the AV integrator to implement a multi-phase upgrade plan. The project scope included significant enhancements to over 15 rooms across multiple floors, the installation of over 150 AV components, and network infrastructure improvements to support a fully integrated, IP-based AV environment.
The Solution
Key Project Elements
1. Unified Communications (UC) Optimization
• Auto-Tracking Cameras: Installed across Rooms 219, 221, 225, 226, and 230 for intelligent speaker tracking and seamless video switching.
• Camera Servers: Crestron 1Beyond system for managing video feeds in combined or divided room states.
• Wireless Presentation: NVX-compatible wireless gateways with USB integration to allow BYOD functionality.
2. Display and Projection Enhancements
• Dual Display Installations: 98” displays for Rooms 219/221 with additional confidence monitors at rear.
• High Brightness Projectors: Replaced outdated units with 14,000-lumen laser projectors for better visibility under full lighting.
• Digital Signage: Installed in 4th and 5th floor elevator lobbies for wayfinding and scheduling.
3. Audio System Expansion
• Ceiling Microphone Arrays: Installed in all major conference spaces to improve UC audio clarity and auto-tracking functionality.
• Wireless Microphones: Expanded wireless coverage to include the Café, Outdoor Patio, and all main meeting spaces.
• DSP Enhancements: New AEC-enabled processors to support additional mic inputs and zone-based routing.
4. System Control and Integration
• Crestron Control System Upgrades: iPad control surfaces provided for mobile management of rooms and global settings.
• USB Switching & Extension: All UC-capable spaces now support flexible USB device routing between local PCs, wireless gateways, and laptops.
• Custom Programming: Adjusted room startup behaviors, default input assignments, and enabled global audio routing presets.
5. Network and Infrastructure Improvements
• New AV Data Switches: Added to support the growing number of endpoints; fiber uplinks installed between floors.
• IP Power Management: Controllable PDUs installed in all rack locations for remote troubleshooting and reboot capabilities.
6. End User Training and Support
• System Orientation: Initial training sessions provided at system handoff for up to 5 users per room.
• Custom Training Packages: Optional extended training and documentation offered.
• Enhanced Service Plan: Includes rapid response support, remote diagnostics, on-site repairs, and loaner equipment if needed.
Innovative Features
Feature | Impact
Auto-Tracking + Switching Cameras | Eliminated need for manual camera operation; improved virtual meetings
Confidence Monitors | Enhanced presenter engagement by reducing need to turn to main screen
Wireless Gateways + USB Switching | Enabled seamless device handoff in meetings and presentations
iPad-Based Room Control | Simplified control interface for staff with minimal training needed
Digital Signage Integration | Provided real-time wayfinding and schedule visibility
The Results & Benefits
• Modernized 10+ conference and meeting spaces with scalable AV capabilities
• Unified experience across all rooms for easier training and operation
• Improved hybrid meeting experience with crystal-clear audio and intelligent camera systems
• Higher engagement in presentations through confidence monitors and better visual clarity
• More reliable system maintenance through remote management tools and power control units
Systems Installed
• 25+ NVX Encoders/Decoders
• 20+ Auto-Tracking Cameras
• 10+ Ceiling Microphone Arrays
• 10+ Confidence Monitors
• 5+ iPad Control Surfaces
• 5+ AV Data Switches (with Fiber Uplink)
• Media Recording & Streaming Units in All Main Rooms
Location Highlights
Room/Floor | Key Upgrades
219/221 | Dual 98" displays, 14K lumen projectors, ceiling mics
225/226/230 | Auto-tracking paired cameras, confidence displays
Boardroom 545 | Extended USB, iPad control, wireless presentation
Café & Patio | Outdoor wireless mic coverage, audio routing
4th/5th Lobbies | Digital signage for navigation and event information
Conclusion
The CCF audio visual upgrade project stands as a benchmark for fully integrated, user-friendly, and scalable audio visual systems in a nonprofit organizational setting. With Visual Sound’s AV expertise, CCF now benefits from modern technology that enhances communication, presentation mobility, and collaboration across the organization—both in-person and virtually.
