CTS Certified Technology Specialist Questions and Answers

In a cardioid subwoofer array, phase shift is employed along with delay and equalization to control the directivity of the sound, focusing bass energy forward and minimizing it behind. Phase shifting alters the waveforms of sound signals, contributing to the cardioid pattern that reduces bass spill to unwanted areas.

CTS Technology Specialist ReferenceThe CTS materials on sound system design explain that phase manipulation, alongside delay, is essential for cardioid subwoofer arrays to control low-frequency dispersion effectively.

The proposal phase is when the description and pricing of an AV solution are submitted to the client. This phase involves presenting a detailed plan that includes system components, costs, and how the solution meets the client's needs. The proposal allows the client to review and approve the solution before moving forward to execution.

CTS Technology Specialist ReferenceThe CTS project management guidelines state that the proposal phase includes submitting a comprehensive description of the AV system and associated costs, forming the basis for client approval and contract negotiation.

Comprehensive Detailed Explanation with all Technology Specialist References:Ambient noise is any unwanted background sound that can interfere with the clarity and intelligibility of the desired audio signal. In an AV setting, ambient noise can reduce speech intelligibility, making it harder for the audience to understand the speaker or experience the audio as intended.

Option B, “canceling it out,” would refer to techniques like active noise cancellation, which isn’t the primary effect of ambient noise on sound but rather a solution to it. Options A and D, “enhancing” and “complementing,” are not applicable because ambient noise typically detracts from audio quality rather than adding to it.

CTS References: AVIXA CTS Exam Guide, Chapter on Audio Basics and Acoustics; CTS Handbook, Section on Acoustic Principles and Noise Management in AV Systems.

=========================

Ohm's Law is a fundamental principle used in electrical engineering and physics to describe the relationship between voltage (V), current (I), resistance (R), and power (P). The Ohm's Law chart is divided into four quadrants, each representing different formulas and relationships among these quantities.

To calculate values expressed in Ohms (which represent resistance, R), you should use Quadrant D. This quadrant contains formulas that solve for resistance (R), using various combinations of voltage (V), current (I), and power (P):

R=VIR = \frac{V}{I}R=IV​

R=V2PR = \frac{V^2}{P}R=PV2​

R=PI2R = \frac{P}{I^2}R=I2P​

These formulas are derived from Ohm's Law and the power equations, providing different ways to calculate resistance based on the available information.

References:

Ohm's Law: Explains the relationship between voltage, current, and resistance.

Power Formulas: Derived from the basic Ohm's Law equations and used to relate power with resistance, voltage, and current.

To further verify and detail the usage of Ohm's Law chart, you can refer to Axis Technology Specialist documentation or any standard electrical engineering textbooks which provide detailed explanations of these formulas and their applications.

Top of Form

Bottom of Form

When an LED indicator on a projector blinks regularly, it typically signifies an error or a status message that needs attention. The correct course of action is to consult the projector's manual. The manual will provide specific information regarding what the blinking pattern means and the appropriate steps to resolve the issue. This method ensures that the engineer addresses the problem correctly without causing further damage or misdiagnosing the issue.References:

Axis Communications - Maintenance and Troubleshooting Guide

Manufacturer's Projector Manuals

According to AVIXA standards, the minimum load rating for a truss that will hold a 5000 lbs (2268 kg) LED wall is typically calculated with a safety factor to ensure stability and safety. The safety factor generally used in rigging and truss systems is 5:1. This means the truss should be rated to hold five times the weight of the load it needs to support.

Given this safety factor:

5000 lbs×5=25000 lbs5000 \text{ lbs} \times 5 = 25000 \text{ lbs}5000 lbs×5=25000 lbs

Therefore, the minimum load rating required for the truss to safely support a 5000 lbs (2268 kg) LED wall is 25000 lbs (11340 kg).

References:

AVIXA Rigging Guidelines

Understanding Load Ratings and Safety Factors

Rigging and Load Calculations in AV Installations

"Shock Loads" for equipment mounts refer to sudden additional loads from earthquakes or personnel hanging from the mounts. Shock loads are unexpected forces that can be significantly higher than normal operating loads and can cause structural failures if not properly accounted for. This is particularly important in areas prone to seismic activity or where equipment might be subjected to additional stresses. Axis Technology Specialist documentation highlights the need to design mounts and supports to withstand such shock loads to ensure the safety and durability of the installation.

A condenser microphone requires a power source to operate because it uses an electrostatic principle to convert sound into an electrical signal. This power is typically provided by phantom power supplied by a mixer or an audio interface. Without this power source, the condenser microphone will not function. It is crucial to include a power source in the system design to ensure the microphone operates correctly.References:

Axis Communications - Audio Equipment Integration

Audio Engineering Society (AES) Standards

The primary design considerations for a projection system in an auditorium include the viewing cone, viewing distance, and viewing angle. These factors determine the optimal placement and size of the projection screen to ensure that all audience members have a clear and comfortable view. The viewing cone defines the area in which the screen can be clearly seen, the viewing distance impacts the size of the text and images, and the viewing angle ensures the image is visible without distortion from various seating positions.

Cable A is a shielded twisted pair (STP) cable, which is suitable for carrying balanced microphone signals. Balanced audio cables have three conductors: two for the signal (positive and negative) and one for the ground. The twisted pair helps to cancel out electromagnetic interference, providing a cleaner signal with less noise. The shielding further protects against external interference, making it ideal for professional audio applications.

Top of Form

Bottom of Form

When comparing two products, the first aspect to review should be the product specifications. Specifications provide detailed information about a product’s features, capabilities, and performance, which are essential to determine suitability for the intended application. Reviewing specifications ensures that the selected product meets the functional requirements of the project.

CTS Technology Specialist ReferenceCTS materials emphasize starting with product specifications to ensure that equipment will fulfill technical requirements, which is a foundational step in the selection process before considering factors like price or reliability.

For mounting a 50-inch monitor on the south wall of the boardroom, recessed lights labeled as D will need to be separated into their own zone to turn them off when the monitor is on. This will prevent glare and reflections on the screen, ensuring a clear and visible display. Axis Technology Specialist documentation supports the necessity of proper lighting control in AV installations to optimize viewing conditions.

Understanding the client’s procurement method is crucial to determine whether the project will go to a competitive bid. This awareness helps avoid wasting resources on a design that may not be directly awarded and instead go through a bidding process, which could result in another firm being chosen.

CTS Technology Specialist ReferenceThe CTS curriculum emphasizes the importance of clarifying procurement processes early to ensure alignment with project scope and avoid unnecessary design work that might not be retained.

Each display in a 2x2 video wall setup at Full HD resolution (1920 x 1080) requires a total resolution of 3840 x 2160 for two displays horizontally and 2160 x 2 vertically, which equals 7680 x 4320. This resolution ensures each display shows content at the highest quality without scaling down.

CTS References: AVIXA CTS Exam Guide, Chapter on Video Walls and Resolutions; CTS Handbook, Section on Display Technologies and Scaling.

=========================

"Just in time" delivery is the most cost-effective approach as it reduces storage costs, minimizes the risk of damage or obsolescence, and aligns closely with the project's timeline. Ordering too early (Options A and C) can lead to unnecessary storage costs and risks. Ordering only 5 days before (Option B) might lead to delays due to procurement or shipping issues.

CTS References: AVIXA CTS Exam Guide, Chapter on Project Management and Logistics; CTS Handbook, Section on Equipment Scheduling and Procurement Strategies.

To calculate watts (P) using the Ohm's Law chart, you would use the sections that involve power formulas. These sections are:

P = V • I

P = I² • R

P = V² / R

These formulas show the relationship between power (watts) and the other electrical quantities: voltage (V), current (I), and resistance (R).

Company information, statement of work, drawings, and bill of materials are presented to the customer as a bid packet (response). This set of documents is used to respond to a request for proposal (RFP) and provides detailed information about how the contractor intends to meet the project requirements. Axis Technology Specialist documentation emphasizes the importance of a comprehensive bid packet to communicate the scope, approach, and cost of a project to the client.

The most important information to gather on a site visit when upgrading a camera system in an existing boardroom is the distance from the lens to the first participant. This measurement is crucial for determining the appropriate camera lens and its focal length to ensure all participants are clearly visible within the camera's field of view. It also affects the placement and angle of the camera to achieve the best possible coverage. Axis Technology Specialist documentation emphasizes the importance of precise measurements and placement to optimize camera performance and video quality in boardroom settings.

Top of Form

Bottom of Form

The responsibility for the installation of conduit in a construction project is typically outlined in the bid (tender) documents. These documents detail the scope of work, responsibilities, and specifications agreed upon during the competitive bidding process. They serve as a binding agreement between the parties and clearly delineate who is responsible for various aspects of the project, including the installation of conduit.

On sites such as hospitals or prisons, work restrictions will have the most impact on labor costs for the project. These restrictions may include limited working hours, special security protocols, or the need for supervision, all of which can significantly increase labor costs and project timelines. Axis Technology Specialist documentation underscores the importance of understanding site-specific restrictions to accurately estimate labor costs and project feasibility.

For a room that can function as one large space or be divided into smaller rooms, a control system is ideal. This system can manage audio and video sources across different zones, allowing users to easily switch between configurations depending on room layout. Control systems facilitate seamless operation by centralizing control of AV functions.

CTS Technology Specialist ReferenceCTS guidelines recommend control systems for multi-room setups, enabling simplified management of audio and video distribution across spaces that can be reconfigured.

Before confirming an anticipated completion date, it is critical to ensure that all components required for the project are available and not backordered. Backordered components can cause significant delays, impacting the overall project timeline. By verifying the availability of all necessary components, you can provide a realistic and reliable completion date to the customer. This step is essential for effective project planning and avoiding unexpected delays.

The section with the grayscale bars (bottom row, from white to black)

Brightness calibration is typically done using the grayscale section of a color chart. The grayscale bars provide a range of luminance levels from white to black, allowing the calibration process to adjust the display so that each shade is distinct and accurately represented. Proper calibration ensures that the display shows details in both bright and dark areas of the image, achieving the correct overall brightness.

HDCP (High-bandwidth Digital Content Protection) requires an initial handshake to authenticate the connection and ensure content protection. This handshake occurs only when the hotplug circuit is first completed between the source and the display. This process ensures that both devices support HDCP, allowing the secure transmission of protected content. Once established, the HDCP link does not repeatedly handshake unless the connection is reset.

CTS Technology Specialist ReferenceThe CTS curriculum on digital video interfaces covers the HDCP handshake process and explains that it occurs upon initial connection to prevent unauthorized copying and redistribution of content.

When testing a distributed audio system, focusing on the audio uniformity in the range of intelligible speech (100 Hz - 2 kHz) is most important. This range is crucial for ensuring that speech is clear and understandable, which is often the primary function of distributed audio systems in environments like schools, offices, and public spaces. Ensuring uniform sound distribution within this frequency range helps achieve consistent audio quality and speech intelligibility across the covered area.

Training users should begin with the system in a shutdown state to ensure they understand the basic steps of powering on and initializing the equipment. Starting from a state of rest allows the user to become familiar with the startup sequence, which is essential for operating the system independently and troubleshooting initial issues.

CTS Technology Specialist ReferenceCTS training emphasizes starting with equipment off during training sessions to ensure users learn correct startup procedures, ensuring the longevity and proper functioning of the AV system.

The term "luminaire" refers to a complete lighting instrument composed of a lamp and housing. This includes all components necessary for the fixture to function, such as the lamp (bulb), housing, reflector, and any other elements that contribute to its operation. Axis Technology Specialist documentation uses the term "luminaire" to describe complete lighting systems in various technical specifications and installation guides.

Proactive maintenance involves regularly monitoring and maintaining systems to prevent issues before they occur. Remotely monitoring system health and performing actions like rebooting faulty equipment are preventive measures that help maintain system reliability and functionality. This approach reduces the likelihood of system failures and downtime, ensuring that the conference room equipment operates smoothly.

When upgrading or modernizing a facility, it is essential to check that wireless microphones are operating on acceptable radio frequencies. This ensures compliance with local regulations and avoids interference with other wireless devices. The radio frequency spectrum can change over time, and certain frequencies may be reallocated or restricted, making it necessary to verify that existing equipment is still compliant and operational within the allowable frequency bands.

The main difference between OLED (Organic Light Emitting Diode) displays and LED (Light Emitting Diode) displays is that OLED displays use self-emitting light sources. In OLED technology, each pixel emits its own light, allowing for better contrast ratios and deeper blacks, as pixels can be turned off completely. In contrast, LED displays use a backlight to illuminate the screen, which can result in less precise control over brightness and contrast.

When a client requests an earlier project completion date, the AV contractor should first issue a Request for Change (RFC). This formal request documents the proposed schedule change and requires client approval. It allows for assessment of resource requirements, timeline adjustments, and any potential cost implications.

CTS Technology Specialist ReferenceThe CTS guidelines stress documenting changes through formal requests like RFCs to ensure client approval and clarity on any impact to the project.

The light output of a projection system is typically measured in lumens, which quantify the total amount of visible light emitted by the projector. Lumens measure the projector's brightness, making it a standard metric for comparing different projectors' output capacities.

Lux is used to measure illuminance or the amount of light falling on a surface.

Footcandles is another unit of illuminance, similar to lux but based on the imperial system.

Contrast ratio describes the difference in luminance between the brightest white and the darkest black a projector can produce, not the brightness itself.

CTS Technology Specialist ReferenceAccording to CTS training materials, projector brightness should be specified in lumens, which provides a clear indication of the projector's suitability for different environments and screen sizes.

Inviting a customer to visit similar installations is an effective method to help them visualize potential solutions and understand how these systems might work in their environment. This approach provides real-world examples of AV technology in action, allowing customers to see the capabilities, configurations, and performance of systems similar to what they are considering. It also offers the customer a chance to ask questions and make informed decisions based on firsthand experience.

CTS Technology Specialist ReferenceThe CTS curriculum emphasizes the importance of understanding customer needs through various methods, including site visits and demonstrations. This approach aligns with the best practices for gathering detailed client requirements and providing tailored solutions.

The image shows a dynamic microphone, which works through electromagnetic induction. In a dynamic microphone, sound waves cause the diaphragm to move, which in turn moves a coil of wire within the magnetic field of a magnet. This movement generates an electrical signal that corresponds to the sound. The visible components, such as the diaphragm, coil, and magnet, are characteristic of a dynamic microphone’s internal structure.

CTS Technology Specialist ReferenceThe CTS curriculum details the workings of various microphone types, explaining that dynamic microphones are durable and suitable for live sound due to their ability to handle high sound pressure levels.

Preventive maintenance is planned maintenance conducted at regular intervals to ensure system reliability and prevent issues before they occur, rather than in response to system failures.

CTS Technology Specialist ReferenceCTS training on maintenance highlights the importance of scheduled preventive maintenance to keep systems operating smoothly and extend equipment lifespan.

When calibrating a loudspeaker system, the C-weighted setting on an SPL (Sound Pressure Level) meter is typically used because it provides a relatively flat frequency response, including low-frequency sound levels. This makes it more suitable for accurately measuring the overall sound pressure level, especially in environments where low-frequency performance is critical, such as in audio and home theater systems. The C-weighted setting captures the full range of audible frequencies, ensuring a comprehensive and precise calibration.

Top of Form

Bottom of Form

When upgrading an AV system in a boardroom and adding control of the lights and shades to the control panel, the most relevant information to gather is the communications protocols. Understanding the protocols used by the lighting and shading systems ensures compatibility with the AV control panel, enabling seamless integration. Axis Technology Specialist documentation highlights the necessity of knowing communication protocols to ensure different systems can interact correctly and be managed from a unified control interface.

The cloud symbol (Option C) is commonly used to represent a network, particularly in diagrams to signify a network or cloud-based resources. This symbol has become a universal representation of network connections and internet-based services.

CTS Technology Specialist ReferenceThe CTS materials include standard AV and IT symbols, where the cloud symbol is used to denote networks and internet connections, aiding in clear communication within technical diagrams.

The most important factor during the development of an AV project scope is understanding stakeholders' requirements. This ensures the project aligns with the needs and expectations of those who will be using or impacted by the system, making it central to project success.

CTS Technology Specialist ReferenceCTS training underscores the importance of gathering detailed stakeholder requirements to define a project scope that meets the client’s objectives and use cases.

When conducting a site survey, understanding and considering the client's expectations is paramount. This involves determining what the client hopes to achieve with the installation, their specific requirements, and any particular preferences they may have. By aligning the survey with the client's expectations, the surveyor can ensure that the final installation meets or exceeds the client's needs and satisfaction. This principle is well-documented in project management and client relations literature, emphasizing the importance of clear communication and understanding of client objectives at the onset of a project.References:

Axis Communications - Site Survey Guidelines

Project Management Institute (PMI) Standards

Amplitude refers to the strength or intensity of a sound wave and is directly related to how loud the sound is perceived. The greater the amplitude, the louder the sound. Pitch (Option A) relates to frequency, not amplitude, while tone (Option B) is more about the quality or character of sound. Frequency (Option D) determines the pitch, not the loudness.

CTS References: AVIXA CTS Exam Guide, Chapter on Audio Basics; CTS Handbook, Section on Sound Wave Properties.

=========================

Listener 2

In sound propagation, every doubling of distance from a sound source generally results in a decrease of approximately 6 dB in sound level due to the inverse square law. Conversely, when moving closer to the sound source, the sound level increases by approximately 6 dB each time the distance is halved.

Given Listener 4 is at 20 feet from the speaker:

Listener 3 is at 15 feet, which is closer but not a direct halving of Listener 4's distance, so the change is less than 6 dB.

Listener 2 is at 10 feet, which is half the distance of Listener 4 (20 feet). This halving of distance results in a sound level increase of approximately 6 dB.

Listener 1 is at 5 feet, which is closer than Listener 2 and results in a higher increase in dB compared to Listener 4.

CTS Technology Specialist ReferenceUnderstanding sound level changes over distance is essential in AV system design to ensure balanced audio coverage. The CTS materials cover the inverse square law extensively, explaining how sound pressure levels change as the distance from the sound source varies. Listener 2, at half the distance from Listener 4, receives sound at +6 dB compared to Listener 4, aligning with this principle.

When designing an AVB (Audio Video Bridging) system, ensuring that the network electronics (such as switches, routers, and network interface cards) are AVB compliant is critical. AVB is a set of standards developed to facilitate the transmission of audio and video data over Ethernet networks with precise timing and low latency. AVB-compliant network electronics are essential for maintaining the quality and synchronization of audio and video streams in such systems.

Top of Form

Bottom of Form

A performance bond provides a third-party guarantee that the contractor will complete the project as specified in the contract and offers protection against financial losses if the project is not completed. This bond ensures that the client has recourse if the contractor fails to meet contractual obligations.

CTS Technology Specialist ReferenceCTS study materials note that performance bonds are commonly requested in construction and large AV projects to provide clients with financial protection and assurance of project completion.

The Scope of Work (SOW) section in an RFP document outlines the overall expectations and contractual requirements for the project. It provides a detailed description of the work to be performed, including deliverables, timelines, and specific tasks. The SOW ensures that all parties have a clear understanding of the project's objectives and responsibilities, serving as the foundation for the project's execution and management.

Top of Form

Bottom of Form

A cardioid microphone has a heart-shaped (or “cardioid”) pick-up pattern that captures sound primarily from the front while rejecting sound from the rear. The pattern shown for Type(b) aligns with a typical cardioid response, featuring a coverage angle of approximately 131°, which indicates its directional sensitivity towards the front and rejection from the back.

CTS References: AVIXA CTS Exam Guide, Chapter on Microphone Types and Polar Patterns; CTS Handbook, Section on Microphone Selection and Directional Patterns.

The best practice for tagging AV equipment for inventory management is to use a unique identifier for each item. This ensures that each piece of equipment can be tracked individually, reducing the risk of loss or confusion. Unique identifiers can include barcodes or RFID tags, which facilitate accurate and efficient tracking of inventory. Axis Technology Specialist documentation stresses the importance of unique identifiers in maintaining precise records and managing assets effectively.

Benchmarking is the process of comparing one's business processes and performance metrics to industry best practices and standards from peer organizations. In the context of AV integration and project planning, benchmarking involves analyzing methods, techniques, and principles used by similar organizations to achieve high performance and efficiency. This approach helps AV professionals to adopt proven strategies and enhance their service offerings.

CTS Technology Specialist ReferenceBenchmarking is referenced in CTS study materials as a critical component for continuous improvement and alignment with industry standards. By leveraging benchmarking, AV integrators can ensure their solutions meet or exceed industry expectations and provide added value to their clients.

The primary factor that must be considered when deciding how to attach a projector mount to a concrete ceiling is the condition of the concrete. Ensuring that the concrete is in good condition and can support the weight and stress of the projector mount is essential for safety and stability. Axis Technology Specialist documentation emphasizes assessing the integrity of the mounting surface to prevent structural failures and ensure secure installation.

The viewing category that describes the usage of a display as a reference for CAD drawings is ADM (Analytical Decision Making). This category involves the detailed examination and interpretation of complex information, such as technical drawings or data. Displays used for ADM must have high resolution and clarity to ensure accurate analysis. Axis Technology Specialist documentation categorizes displays for analytical decision-making tasks as requiring superior visual performance to support detailed and precise work.

For an open-concept office space where speech privacy is a concern, a sound masking system is an effective solution. Sound masking involves adding a background sound, usually similar to airflow, to reduce the intelligibility of speech. This helps in minimizing distractions and enhancing privacy without isolating individuals physically.

CTS Technology Specialist ReferenceThe CTS materials highlight sound masking as a preferred solution for enhancing speech privacy in open office environments. It effectively addresses concerns related to audible distractions and speech privacy, making it well-suited for such spaces.