Vario banner containing Vario's name and colored logo

Audio Visual Terminology in Virtual Production

Share This

Related Posts

What to Include in an Event Brief 

Planning an event can be daunting, as there are countless factors to consider, and even the slightest oversight can result in chaos. However, using an

Sign Up

Join nearly 5,000 meeting planners and receive more tips, resources and event happenings in your inbox. Don’t worry, you will be able to unsubscribe at any time.

Name(Required)

Modern virtual production equipment

As the world has pivoted to more virtual events in the last year, our team at Vario has utilized audio visual technology that ensures any event goes smoothly. If you’re unfamiliar with audio visual terminology in the virtual world, we’re here to help you be a part of the conversation. Whether you’re entirely new to these terms or are an experienced professional in the event space, brush up on your ABCs of Audio and Visual Production with this comprehensive list of production and event terms from Vario.

API (Application Programming Interface) – A software intermediary that allows two applications to talk to one another.

Bandwidth – The amount (aka volume) of information that can be sent via a specified connection in a specified, measured amount of time.

Broadcast – The distribution of audio or visual content on a specified network, circuit, or channel out to a remote audience. Broadcasts can be live or pre-recorded content transmitted live across media channels (radio, news outlets, and television).

Concurrent Sessions/Breakouts – Smaller group sessions occurring simultaneously, typically providing a focused presentation or interactive discussion on one particular topic of the overall conference subject.

Compression – As it relates to both audio and video, compression is a reduction in file size to fit a certain type of format. Typically compression results in some form of quality loss.

Data Privacy – The necessary practice of protecting the sensitive information of your attendees and guests like name, date of birth, address, etc.

Ethernet cable – The designated cable used to connect a router to a computer or modem to a computer resulting in greater internet speeds.

Embed Code – A computer code used to insert a media file or software application directly into another digital source. Most commonly, videos that play directly on a webpage or within a presentation are using an embed code.

Feedback – The high pitched squeal that comes as the result of a frequency loop between a speaker and a microphone.

Firewall – A protective digital barrier that keeps unwanted persons from connecting to a designated network. Often used as a privacy measure to protect data and prevent unwanted bandwidth traffic.

Gateway – An entrance and/or exit into a network, specifically designed to allow multiple networks to connect with and communicate with one another.

Global Notifications – A method of communication used by software vendors to inform/notify the user base of important changes, updates, maintenance, etc.

Graphics Adaptors – Commonly referred to as a “video card”, this is a printed circuit board that outputs computer signals and enables a personal computer to display certain kinds of video formats.

High Definition Video – Video with a minimum display resolution of 720p and 1280×720 pixels is considered as standard High Definition (HD). Of even better quality, Full High Definition (FHD) has a resolution of 1080i/1080p with 1920×1080 pixels.

IP Address – An IP address is a unique address that identifies a device on the internet or a local network. IP stands for “Internet Protocol,” which is the set of rules governing the format of data sent via the internet or local network.

ISO Record – The function to record live video from a designated (isolated) feed, channel, or input

Immersion – Any event rooted in multi-sensory experiences, often implementing the use of advanced tech.

KVM switch -  This acronym stands for Keyboard, Video, and Mouse switch, and this tool allows a user to control multiple computers via a single set or multitude of keyboards, monitors, and mice.

LAN (local area network) – A connected group of computers within close proximity to one another all sharing a secured connection, and often used to share files, access, and data.

Latency – The time difference between the signal’s point of origin (i.e. a camera) and its destination (i.e. a video screen). When latency is too long, often due to bandwidth issues, poor connection, or ineffective data compression, it creates a “lag” in audio/video quality.

Livestream – Content being broadcast in real-time to an online audience at the same time it is being recorded is a livestream. Well known live streaming platforms are YouTube, Vimeo, Facebook Live, and Twitch.

Lower Thirds – Any graphic or piece of information laid over a video that displays information to the audience placed in the bottom portion of the screen (i.e. in the lower third). Examples include promos, a speaker’s name, and logos.

Many-to-Many – In the context of a meeting or event, a many-to-many interaction exists when multiple hosts, moderators, and presenters can see, listen, and speak, with multiple audience members at the same time; audio/video is 2-way. Video conferencing systems such as Zoom, Webex, and Teams make this connection possible.

Modem – A device that transmits and decodes signal data via a phone network on what is commonly called a “carrier signal.” Commonly used to connect a computer to the internet via a phone line.

Noise – An unwanted signal that interferes with, and disrupts specific audio or visual signal on a desiccated line or network.

One-to-Many – In the context of a meeting or event, a one-to-many interaction exists when only the presenter(s) are able to deliver audio/video output to the audience. This 1-way connection is common for webinar presentations and virtual general session keynotes.

Production (Pre and Post) – Pre-Production can involve ideation, strategy, design, planning, programming, and logistics management for a future event. Post-Production are the necessary steps to properly conclude an event account and include content consolidation, rendering and editing final video recording footage, analytic report retrieval, and review, and overall debriefs.

Program Record – This is a recording of what was on the screen during the event. This can include PowerPoint slides, IMAG, and an audio feed to be used as a reference for later post editing or archiving.

Picture in Picture – The ability to layer video or presentation materials. Most often seen in the context of panoramic screens (where the IMAG is layered over branded imagery or presentations) and video conferencing (when a presenter is screen sharing with their camera on).

RTMP – This acronym that stands for Real Time Messaging Protocol establishes the parameters for high-performance transmission of audio, visual, and/or data from a source to an encoder to a server across a network

Real-time – The phrase used to define that what is being watched or listened to is happening at a specific location live and in that exact moment.

Router – A designated network device that forwards and delivers packages of content and data from one network to another based on predetermined and coded routing tables.

Scaling – The process of converting a picture or video from one resolution to another in an effort to optimize transmission from input to signal processor to ensure the best possible quality is displayed.

Simulive – The process of playing recorded content to a live audience as if the content itself is also happening live at that moment.

Switcher – A tool used to switch between different sources of content, most often used in conjunction with multiple video feeds. A switcher can be both a piece of hardware and a piece of software and commonly both are used in conjunction with one another.

Telepresence – An immersive experience often used to simulate two people being in the same place during real-time immersive video calls. Typically done in a designated Telepresence studio.

User Interface (UI) – All of the elements that a user sees or interacts with from color and iconography, to font, pictures, and graphics. Most commonly used in reference to a website, platform, or app.

User Experience (UX) – The ease of participation for a user in regards to a website, app, or other digital platforms that helps identify enjoyment or displeasure. Used as a marker to gauge consumer satisfaction as it relates to enjoyment of the product within the confines of the digital space, and even the layout of the digital space itself.

UPS (Uninterruptible Power Supply) – This acronym is commonly used to describe a specific type of power supply that will continue to supply power for a limited amount of time even if the flow of power to the device is interrupted or cut off.

Video on Demand (VOD) – Pre-recorded video that is hosted for streaming purposes in an effort to allow an audience member or user to access the video at their discretion and on their own time.

Voice-over (VO) – Audio, most commonly of someone speaking/narrating, that accompanies video, pictures, or some other visual media to explain or move a story forward.

Video Conference – A designated video feed between two or more parties that can be used for meetings, events, or negotiations in an effort to create and replicate the “in-person” experience.

VPN – A Virtual Private Network is a secured connection to the internet that protects data within the confines of a private network connection. Established via a private connections tunnel that applies encryption practices and other privacy measures online.

WebinarHosting a webinar is an interactive online seminar that utilizes a one-to-many construct and encourages engagement from the remote audience via chat functions, polls, and Q&A.

Whitelisting – A cybersecurity strategy that only allows a user to take actions that are predetermined based on the parameters set by the administrator. An example of whitelisting would be a specific list of websites employees would not be allowed to visit or access on a work computer based on predetermined permissions.

WLAN (wireless local area network) – Instead of using cable like a normal Local Area Network, a WLAN uses radio waves to transmit data between computers connected within the same network.

XR Stage – A state-of-the-art virtual production space that features immersive technologies used for things like 3-D video, virtual reality, and hologram technology.

Now that you’ve learned the ABCs of audio visual production, you can better understand how much goes into making an event a success. If you’re planning an event and looking for the right virtual event platform, consider us to be your production company to walk with you every step of the way. Our team serves as an extension of your production team and a consultant for event planning. We have years of experience executing successful events worth remembering.

Aside from industry-leading creativity and detailed customization, we also offers access to the most up-to-date technology, practices, and immersive experiences. So if you’re looking for a San Diego audio visual company to support your special event, don’t hesitate to contact us today to see how we can help turn your event into the new standard across your industry!

Stay COnnected:

Sign up for our newsletter to receive the latest event industry news.

Partner With Vario

From ideation to execution, we’re with you every step of the way. Consider us an extension of your team and let’s explore all that we can accomplish together.

We would love to answer your questions through email, phone, or a scheduled discovery consultation.