Advent Blog

I learned a valuable lesson in technology on the show floor of a recent gamers' conference.  The lesson was not about the latest hardware or software, or cheats to the latest game. It was about wire management and AV best practices.

If you plan on using several plasma displays and running a lot of wiring, it is a good idea to create a plan for where all of the wiring will go before you get to the show site. Chances are you will have to make changes once you arrive, but if you have a good idea of where things need to be, the adjustments should be easy. 

Here are a few helpful tips:

1. If you're not using raised flooring, which makes wire management much easier, make sure you buy carpet padding. You can cut channels in the padding to run wires under the carpet, which will hide the wires better.

2. Bring extra zip ties. Use these to bulk wrap cords together. Then you can attach the wrapped cords as a unit to your frame.

3. Purchase extra-long cables. It's better to have too much than too little.

4. Make sure you purchase plenty of extension cords and power strips so you don't have to buy them from the show.

5. If you're using an outside AV company, make sure they leave any remotes behind so you can control the hardware.

6. If you plan on installing any large plasmas on a tower or large structure, make sure you rent a lift from the show decorator for the set-up and take down. Large displays are almost impossible to set-up using only ladders.

There are several display systems that were created with features for dealing with technology and wire management.  If you are intrested in using a lot of technology hardware, ask your exhibit company about one of these products.  This will make your set-up much easier, and it will keep the wiring from detracting from the pop that the technology should add to your exhibit.