AV Control Systems Are Still a Thing and Here's Why

Control over available devices in meeting rooms, conference rooms, or control rooms can be achieved in many ways - buttons on devices, remote controls, or even web interfaces. However, the more devices there are, the more complex even a simple task can be. Even preparing a room for a meeting becomes a challenge (turning on the monitor, changing input source, adjusting audio). While complexity of installation increases - the speed of accessing room functionalities decreases. 

Although from the perspective of an AV systems integrator these „additional steps” might not be an issue, from the end user’s point of view, it can lead to delays, potential equipment issues, and ultimately, frustration and dissatisfaction with the system. The more critical the AV infrastructure is, the more important it is for the system to be intuitive and responsive. For example, in control rooms based on multiple video sources and displays (often in the form of video walls), quick access to information is key.

That is why control systems remain popular - even despite the trend toward simplifying AV installations, particularly in meeting spaces. There are still a lot of installations designed to combine solutions from various AV manufacturers - and in such cases, having access to many devices from a single, easy-to-use control panel is essential.

Why is a control system important?

END-USER PERSPECTIVE

Simplified operation via centralized control. Instead of operating each device (e.g. projector, screen, lighting, air conditioning) individually, the control system enables integrated management of all components from a single touch panel or tablet with the appropriate app.

Automation of scenarios. Kramer Control allows programing specific scenarios, e.g. press a single "Start Meeting" button and it automatically:

• Turns on the monitor,
• Selects the correct signal source,
• Dims the lights,
• Launches the video-conferencing system.

Consistent interfaces / universal control. In organizations with multiple conference rooms in different locations - often equipped with hardware from various manufacturers - a control system ensures consistent, universal user interface and operation in every room. 

AV SYSTEM INTEGRATOR PERSPECTIVE

Scalability. Kramer Control system is scalable - can easily be expanded with new devices or entire rooms without having to redesign the system from scratch.

Remote management and service support. With control systems - IT or AV administrators can remotely monitor device status in all rooms covered by the system, perform initial diagnostics, and update configurations - without needing to be physically present at place.

Key Features of a Control System

To fullfill its purpose, a control system must work with as many devices as possible. Without going into technical detail, the system must support device control via the most common protocols (IP, RS232, IR, I/O) and offer an environment where new devices can be easily added -either through a built-in driver library or with a straightforward method for adding custom drivers.

This is important because such systems often control not only AV equipment but also lighting, blinds, or projection screens.
An important addition is the ability to use AV system components - such as signal switchers or AVoverIP decoders - as control gateways. This allows using their I/O, IR, or RS232 ports as part of the control system to send commands to connected devices.
This is possible within the Kramer ecosystem, where the control system’s "brain" (KC-VirtualBrain) connects via IP to, for example, a Kramer AVoIP decoder (KDS-DEC7), which has a projector connected via RS232. From KC-VirtualBrain, the projector can be controlled with RS232 commands.

Versatility also applies to the configuration process. Many manufacturers now use cloud-based  platforms for configuration - preferred by many for their remote access and easier remote support. However, some organizations’ security policies prohibit the use of cloud tools. In such cases, it's important to choose a control system with a local configuration option. An example is Kramer Control KC-ON PREM - a hardware-based local control system configurator.

Kramer Control KC-ON PREM

Brings the ease of programming of Kramer’s cloud−based AV control platform to your local infrastructure, in the form of a self contained “appliance”.

• Full Offline Operation
• Effortless Configuration and Personalization
• Comprehensive Control Capabilities
• Fast Deployment
• Local Updates and Management

Designed for

• Organizations with high security requirements or sensitive data
• Businesses looking to maintain complete local control over their AV systems
• Installations requiring ultra–low latency control systems
• Environments where network isolation is paramount

Kramer Control KC-ON PREM

User-friendly interface 

The system integrator plays the key role here, as they are responsible for designing the control panel the user will interact with. 

The control system should offer flexibility not only in the interface appearance but also in device compatibility - for example, table- or wall-mounted panels, small smartphone-sized vertical displays, or larger 10” touch panels offering more control options. It’s important that the system also supports interface display on mobile devices such as tablets, which ensures necessary mobility in certain scenarios.

Touch panels

Quick configuration and fast deployment

A key argument for system integrators. Controlling multiple devices and automating processes used to require programming knowledge, but has changed. Fortunately, Kramer tools don’t require coding skills - even for building advanced control systems. These tools include visual configurators that help build system logic and user interfaces easily (using available templates), replicate the system for other spaces, and edit as needed. This speeds up implementation and enables quick testing and adjustments.

Kramer Control offers such tools via its cloud-based Builder, standalone version (KC-ON PREM), and upcoming integration with its AV ecosystem - Kramer Panta Rhei.

Security and easy integration with local networks

More and more organizations consider not only the functionality or price of a network-connected device, but also its IT security. Control systems are no exception, and it’s worth choosing those that take network security seriously.  Kramer Control offers:

• SSL/TLS encryption – Secure protocols for communication between devices and the cloud platform.
• Secured OS – Kramer Control Brain runs on a closed, custom firmware system, reducing the risk of common exploits (e.g. from Windows or Linux). Additionally, Kramer Brain operates as an "edge device," meaning it doesn’t expose ports or services that could be directly attacked from the internet.
• Central user access management – Manage user permissions via the Kramer Control Dashboard, reducing the risk of unauthorized access.
• Role-based user access – Different access levels (admin, integrator, end user) help limit exposure for potentially vulnerable user groups.
• Regular updates and remote management – Kramer allows for remote firmware updates, enabling quick patching of security vulnerabilities. Updates can be scheduled and centrally managed by admins.
• Traffic filtering and secure protocols – Supports restricted ports and controlled network traffic - admins can configure network rules so that Kramer Control-Brain accesses only necessary resources.
• Fully offline project setup – Thanks to KC-ONPREM, the system can be designed and deployed without any internet connection. This adds another layer of security, especially for high-security scenarios like emergency operations centers or critical infrastructure control rooms.

What does the Kramer Control offer include?

Kramer has designed a complete ecosystem for control. This includes:

• Control units (e.g., KC-VirtualBrain),
• Interface building tools (cloud and on-prem versions),
• Specialized gateways (to add control ports to devices),
• Various control interfaces – wall button panels and touchscreens of different sizes.

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This all combines into a very solid solution which can be used for a variety of potential scenarios. 

Summary

AV control systems continue to play a vital role in today’s AV infrastructure despite the rise of newer technologies like AVoIP. Far from being obsolete, they have evolved alongside modern AV trends, adapting to integrate with IP-based technologies while retaining their core function: seamless coordination and management of AV components in complex environments.

These systems are more than just technical conveniences - they are essential tools that ensure reliability, simplify operations, and enhance the user experience. In conference rooms, classrooms, auditoriums, and control centers, AV control systems bring structure and efficiency, allowing users to operate sophisticated AV setups with minimal friction.

Moreover, their ability to scale and adapt to new protocols means they remain future-ready, making them a smart investment for organizations that value both stability and innovation. The added layers of security and consistent performance make them especially valuable in high-stakes settings like corporate enterprises, healthcare facilities, and government institutions.

In a world increasingly driven by flexible, IP-based solutions, AV control systems remain the backbone of effective AV integration - bridging the gap between traditional hardware and emerging digital workflows. Their continued relevance is a testament to their adaptability, reliability, and indispensable role in creating connected, intelligent spaces.

If you are interested in Kramer Control solutions – don’t hesitate and contact your Modulit sales representative or book a training using our form.

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