How to resolve AdBlock issue? Bank of Namibia uses Sennheiser
Established in 1990, the Bank of Namibia is the most important financial institution in the country, responsible for managing the currency and monetary policy of Namibia. The bank’s headquarters, located in the heart of the Namibian capital, recently upgraded the AV system in its main auditorium, used for on-site events and virtual conferences. Specialists in AV technology integration and supply, Stage Audio Works Namibia were chosen to lead the project.
“Following the acceptance of our proposal by the Bank of Namibia, we began working closely with the in-house facilities and maintenance and engineering teams to design and implement the auditorium upgrade,” recalls Emce Smit, Technical Manager at Stage Audio Works Namibia. “The focus of the project was to enhance the overall experience for users, including upgrading the capabilities for streaming live events and improving the quality of the video conferencing technology, especially for delegates joining meetings remotely.”
The scope comprised the integration of audio, visual and control technologies, plus solutions to enable seamless bring-your-own-device (BYOD) connectivity. For video presentations, the system includes a Crestron AirMedia Receiver with Wi-Fi connectivity, ensuring stress-free wireless presentations. The video capture setup comprises two Crestron PTZ cameras paired with a Fortinge 15" conference teleprompter to help with on-stage speech delivery.
The conferencing technology is built upon a Crestron Flex Video Conference System for Microsoft Teams Rooms, bringing both familiarity and a user-friendly experience to power high-quality video conferencing. A Christie DWU960-iS laser projector is used for the main display, with Samsung 55" and 65" screens for downstage comfort monitors as well as providing digital signage at the entrance to the auditorium. Content distribution is handled by Crestron’s DM NVX AV-over-IP solution.
“Ceiling microphones were specifically requested by the client, so we chose the Sennheiser TeamConnect Ceiling 2 (TCC2) microphones for this application as they offer an outstanding experience in an auditorium setup,” explains Smit. “The TCC2 arrays utilise patented automatic dynamic beamforming technology, ensuring comprehensive audio capture throughout the space. This advanced beamforming capability allows the microphones to automatically detect and focus on the active speaker, providing crystal-clear sound quality and seamless integration, making them the ideal choice for high-quality audio in large venues.”
“For lighting, we opted for Cameo LED Fresnel wash lights in combination with an LED profile spotlight, which can be easily controlled via the Crestron wall plate at the auditorium entrance, plus LED strip lights.” A custom podium from Windhoek Joinery Works (WJW), with a Sennheiser Gooseneck microphone and a 7” Crestron touch panel display, plus space to plug and play your own device, provides those presenting with all they need to conduct hybrid conferences with confidence. “Simplified controls and an already familiar Microsoft Teams interface means operating the equipment is less daunting for delegates,” continues Smit. “Opting for an AV-over-IP solution also means the system is scalable and suitable for live-streaming, whilst eliminating the need for excessive cabling.”
The end result is a state-of-the-art conferencing space that requires minimal technical know-how from users. “The Bank of Namibia often invite staff from across the country to this auditorium and being involved in this project feels great, knowing we are empowering the institution with a first-class AV system that will enhance their business communications,” concludes Smit. “Plus, the flexibility of the networked technology means that the investment they’ve made now will serve them in the future should they wish to upgrade further.”
