GCC AV Tiers

Summary 

This document identifies an Audio-Visual (AV) tiers classification system room.  

Before You Start 

This scheme simplifies identifying AV components in a room. Some Tier 1 or 2 rooms may include Tier 3 custom AV solutions. While it doesn't specify required AV capabilities, it helps with budgeting, planning, inventory, and usage for educational or professional purposes. 

AV Tiers 

Tier 0, No presentation system   

May have one or more instructor and/or student computers and desktop monitors. 

Tier 1, Presentation system 

At Least one mounted TV or projector/screen to display content from a PC or other connected device to an audience.  Desktop and/or ceiling speakers for audio output. 

Tier 2, Presentation and Video Conferencing System  

A Tier 2 presentation system supplemented with one or more video cameras (pan-tilt-zoom, tracking or non-tracking). At least 1 presenter microphone (e.g., handheld, lapel, over-the-ear) and in-ceiling microphones for video conferencing/recording only.  A confidence monitor may be present to display slides with notes and/or remote participants. A document camera may be present. 

Tier 3, Event Space 

PC and HDMI input options, TV and/or projector display, one or more video cameras (mobile and/or installed), and 2+ simultaneous microphones for video conferencing AND in-room amplified sound. 

Tier 4, Custom AV 

A unique AV solution, customized to meet specific teaching, learning, and/or working requirements, and in some cases, physical space considerations.  May incorporate some or all features listed above.  Customized examples include: mobile television/video conferencing/micro PC cart, livestreaming (static or mobile), dual TV/projector.  Special AV hardware or modifications to existing AV hardware to accommodate a person’s specific needs. 

 

Tier 

Display 

Audio 

HyFlex 

Other 

Tier 0 

None 

None 

None 

May have PCs 

Tier 1 

1+ TV/Projector 

Installed speakers (ceiling, in most cases) 

None 

 

Tier 2 

1+ TV/Projector 

Installed speakers (ceiling, in most cases) 

1+ Wireless Mics, In-Ceiling Mics, 1+ Video Camera(s) 

Possible Confidence Monitor 

Tier 3 

1+ TV/Projector 

2+ Mic output to in-room Speakers 

Mobile and/or Installed Mic(s)/Camera(s) 

 

Tier 4 

Custom, notably involving modifications and/or additions to a Tier 1-3 space 

Custom, notably involving modifications and/or additions to a Tier 1-3 space 

Custom, notably involving modifications and/or additions to a Tier 1-3 space 

Based on the needs of specific programs/faculty 

 

Additional Resources 

  • GCC Room Types  

  • GCC Classroom Types and AV Tiers, Hardware Specifications for AV Planning and Budgeting May 2025