The equipment in such a network consists mainly of video matrix switchers with a given number of input and output (I/O) ports and signal extenders forwarding the signals via high quality CAT cables or optical lines.
Extenders sending signals in point-to-point configurations are called transmitters, while those receiving the signals at the far end are receivers.
In AV Over IP setups audio and video signals are usually sent through standard IT networks, though sometimes it is still recommended to build a dedicated, purpose-built network for video distribution.
Devices sending signals are typically called encoders (when the transmitter actually encodes the signal), as they convert audio and video signals into data that can be streamed across a standard Ethernet network to a receiving decoder device, that converts (decodes) the received data back to audio and video signals.
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