Givan Associates, Inc. - Manufacturers Representatives

Williams Sound FM or INFRARED

We're often asked, "Which is better, FM or IR?" Since Williams Sound offers both types, they (and we, the reps) can give you an unbiased answer. The quick answer is that neither is "better". Each system has some unique characteristics and trade-offs. For a given type of use, these characteristics will be a help, a hindrance, or they won't matter. The chart below details the key advantages and disadvantages for each type of system. In most cases, either type will work fine. Factors such as cost, radio interference, or area of coverage typically will make one system more suitable for your particular needs.

NOTE: Regarding applications where security is a factor (such as Court Rooms) IR is recommended. IR systems are contained within the room, FM (signals) systems can be picked up and recorded.

FM System Advantages	INFRARED System Advantages
~ FM transmission easily covers any auditorium at a lower cost of coverage per square foot than IR. ~ Multiple channels are available for multiple auditoriums. ~ Channels can be changed to avoid external radio interference. ~The FM receiver "Capture" effect can be used to minimize the number of channels needed for multiple auditoriums. ~ Multi-channel receivers are available to simplify receiver management ~ Any number of receivers can be used ~ FM allows generally unrestricted seating ~ Hearing aid wearers can be accommodated ~ The receiver can be placed in a pocket or covered up ~ Persons or other obstructions don't block transmission ~ FM is easier to install than IR. The transmitter can be concealed or covered ~ FM is more portable than IR ~ FM can be used in strong sunlight (Outdoors) ~ FM offers excellent sound quality	~ IR transmission is confined inside opaque walls. You can use any number of systems in adjacent auditoriums without spillover. ~ Multiple channels are not needed for multiple auditoriums. ~ IR provides a secure transmission if security is an issue. ~IR is unaffected by external radio interference and cannot cause radio interference. ~The same receiver will work in any auditorium and pickup the correct program ~ Any number of receivers can be used ~ IR allows generally unrestricted seating ~ Hearing aid wearers can be accommodated ~ IR offers excellent sound quality
FM System Disadvantages	INFRARED System Disadvantages
~ FM can be affected by external radio interference or cause radio interference ~ There are a limited number channels available ~ Receivers must match the transmitter channel being used ~ Receivers can pick up other auditoriums (adjoining rooms) With multi-channel receivers, the user can select the wrong channel ~ FM transmission is not secure if security is an issue	~ Smaller area of coverage than FM - Higher cost per square foot of coverage ~ IR is usually more difficult to install emitter placement is very important ~ Emitter panels cannot be covered up ~ The IR "eye" on receiver cannot be covered up ~ Persons or other obstructions can block the infrared transmission ~ IR is not as portable as FM ~ IR cannot be used in strong sunlight (outdoors)