Ruckus expands AV-over-IP switches, joins SDVoE group

Ruckus Networks has expanded its Pro AV ICX network switch portfolio to better support audio-visual over IP (AVoIP) deployments, catering to commercial operators transitioning from legacy video transport systems to modern Ethernet-based networks.

These new switches are specifically designed for professional environments that distribute high-quality video and audio over IP, offering simplified setup procedures and enhanced interoperability with existing hardware.

Alongside these hardware enhancements, the company has released an AV-focused update for its management platforms to streamline network configuration. To further strengthen its position in the market, Ruckus Networks has formalised a partnership with Crestron and joined the SDVoE Alliance as an adopting member, ensuring its infrastructure aligns with industry-standard protocols for low-latency, uncompressed video transmission.

Switch portfolio

Ruckus Networks said its new Pro AV ICX switches ship in a pre-configured state. The company described them as AV-optimised for AV-over-IP networks. It said this approach reduces the resources needed to configure switching for AV protocols and endpoints.

The firm said the expanded ICX portfolio can run under Ruckus One, SmartZone, or in a standalone mode. It said this supports deployments across commercial sites. It cited professional residential installations, hospitality venues and education facilities.

Ruckus Networks linked the switch configuration to deployment planning. It said pre-configured switches lower risk and speed roll-outs. It also said the approach supports scaling of AV networks.

The company said network operators can onboard AV devices and manage AV traffic through its cloud or on-premises management platform. It said the same platforms also manage its standard switches and access points.

Crestron tie-up

Ruckus Networks said the expanded portfolio interoperates with Crestron's DM NVX AV-over-IP platform.

Crestron sells AV distribution and control systems used in corporate meeting rooms, higher education and large venues. It has built a partner ecosystem around its AV-over-IP products as customers standardise on Ethernet switching for video, audio and control traffic.

"At RUCKUS Networks, we pride ourselves on building advanced networking solutions, and our expanded Pro AV portfolio goes beyond the ordinary to make AV networking even simpler and easier to deploy for our customers," said Bart Giordano, SVP & President, Ruckus Networks. "We're excited to be joining Crestron and the SDVoE Alliance in accelerating the transition to AV-over-IP for AV transport."

Crestron described its work with Ruckus Networks as a testing and interoperability effort around network switching for AV distribution.

"Crestron's DM NVX is the industry-leading AV-over-IP solution, providing flawless distribution of networked video, audio, USB, and control," said Bob Bavolacco, Strategic Partnerships Director, Crestron. "Our partnership with RUCKUS Networks is built on rigorous testing of their switches with DM NVX to ensure our mutual end clients experience the best in video and audio distribution paired with one of the industry's leading switch manufacturers."

SDVoE membership

Ruckus Networks also joined the SDVoE Alliance as an adopting member. The organisation describes itself as a non-profit consortium of professional AV technology providers.

The alliance focuses on the use of Ethernet-based AV-over-IP systems that carry professional AV signals. It has promoted software-defined approaches and interoperability between vendors as AV moves deeper into standard IT networks.

For Ruckus Networks, the membership places its switching portfolio within a wider vendor group that markets Ethernet transport for AV as an alternative to older video distribution methods. The company framed the move as part of the wider industry shift away from legacy systems.

Ruckus Networks operates as a business within Vistance Networks, which is listed on Nasdaq under the ticker VISN.

Ruckus Networks said it will manage the expanded Pro AV ICX portfolio through Ruckus One and SmartZone, alongside its existing switching and Wi-Fi products.