As a Cisco-first video conferencing user, the institution was already committed to Webex as part of its unified communications strategy. The goal was to create an environment that would seamlessly integrate its familiar Cisco inputs whilst ensuring scalability, simplicity, and ease of use. Lightware’s MMX 4x2 HDMI Matrix Switchers proved pivotal in reaching this goal.
The institution's multimedia engineering team was introduced to Lightware’s solutions at an AV User Group meeting in New York. “When we discovered Lightware’s Cisco integration capabilities, we knew it was the right fit for our needs," stated a spokesperson of the company. “We shared our pain points with the Lightware team and it soon became evident that the MMX could solve these challenges.”
The implementation process was notably efficient. The in-house team handled the configuration, using Lightware’s Cisco Room Configuration Wizard to input endpoints and create a configuration file that could be duplicated across multiple rooms. "We didn't need to bring in external programmers or engineers, which significantly streamlined the process," explains the spokesperson. “We work on a standardized technology model, so the ability to duplicate the same room configurations at scale was a huge benefit.”
During the implementation, the standard room set-up transitioned from a system based on Crestron DMPS to Lightware’s MMX 4x2 matrix switcher, simplifying room configurations and ensuring seamless integration with Cisco hardware. This switch allowed for native operation within Cisco’s ecosystem, eliminating the need for external touch panels and additional programming. The transition has resulted in 60% cost savings compared to the previous setup.
The AV infrastructure is designed to accommodate a variety of inputs across 12 standard room types that are duplicated in a total of 365 spaces at the HQ. Each of the 192 small to medium-sized rooms features a Cisco Webex Room Kit, a room PC, a HDMI input, a USB-C laptop, and an Apple TV unit. Samsung screens and Cisco peripherals, including microphones and touch panels are also incorporated into each room system. Each MMX 4x2 offers four HDMI inputs and two independent HDMI outputs, plus USB, RS-232, IR (in and out) and Ethernet ports, ensuring excellent versatility and a range of BYOD options. Through the Cisco room panel, users can directly select their desired inputs and outputs effectively, ensuring versatility for both in-person and hybrid meetings at the company.
"The integration of Lightware’s MMX 4x2 with Cisco’s Webex system allowed us to enhance input selection and control, offering much greater flexibility and cost-effectiveness compared to traditional control systems. When you hit share, the user has greater control of what sources and devices they want to control without having to navigate across multiple interfaces or plug in various cables.”
The new meeting room systems have delivered a seamless, user-friendly experience. "Compared to our previous meeting rooms, the simplicity and ease of use has been game-changing. Users can walk into a room and operate the system intuitively, which was a key objective for this project."
The system has proven to be both scalable and sustainable, with no significant issues or troubleshooting required, even after two years of operation. The multimedia team praised Lightware for being a true partner throughout the project. "Lightware worked closely with our standards, taking our feedback and continuously innovating," says the spokesperson. “Our partnership continues to thrive – it's a bi-directional relationship focused on long-term success.”
Building the AV infrastructure around Lightware’s MMX matrix switchers has enhanced the functionality and meeting room user experience across the financial institution’s new headquarters, empowering the team to deliver on the project goals of simplicity, scalability and seamless operation.
