Case Study

Located in Fayette, Missouri, Central Methodist University is a private, four-year liberal arts institution founded in 1854. The university, affiliated with the United Methodist Church, offers associate, bachelor’s and master’s degrees to a diverse student population. CMU’s main campus enrolls approximately 1,100 students, while more than 4,000 students participate in its College of Graduate and Extended Studies through online and regional programs. As instructional delivery expanded across in-person and remote formats, the university sought to ensure consistent, high-quality video capture across its learning environments.

As hybrid learning and live streaming became more integral to higher education, CMU faced operational challenges in scaling its existing approach. The university relied on temporary camera setups that required manual configuration for each class or event. The IT staff had to coordinate equipment, establish signal paths and prepare recording or streaming systems in advance, often several days ahead of use. As a result, the process introduced inefficiencies, increased the likelihood of technical issues and limited the ability to respond quickly to evolving instructional needs.

“We had to set up temporary cameras for each event and use various methods and protocols to get the camera signals to the devices to record or stream,”

“Using the AVer PTZ cameras with NDI capability allowed us to have a permanent, consistent method to control the cameras and get the signals to the recording and streaming servers.”

CMU required a solution that would eliminate repeated setup tasks while providing reliable, network-based video distribution. The system also needed to integrate with existing infrastructure and support flexible control across multiple spaces.

After evaluating available options, CMU selected AVer based on familiarity, feature set and cost. Casady had prior experience with AVer products and found them reliable and straightforward to deploy. The cameras supported the protocols the university required, particularly NDI over Ethernet, enabling efficient video transport across the network. AVer’s pricing was also competitive with other established manufacturers, allowing CMU to avoid lower-cost alternatives that lacked proven reliability and support.

CMU deployed a combination of AVer CAM520 Pro, PTZ310 and PTZ330 cameras across classrooms and event spaces. The PTZ310 and PTZ330 models integrate NDI-based IP streaming alongside HDMI and SDI outputs, allowing video, audio, control signals and power to be delivered over a single connection. The unified connectivity of the PTZ310 and PTZ330 enabled the university to standardize its video workflows and simplify system design. The PTZ310 and PTZ330’s remote control capabilities enabled pan, tilt, and zoom adjustments to be managed over the network without physical interaction.

The implementation was straightforward and required minimal disruption to existing facilities. The cameras were mounted in permanent, ceiling-based positions and connected to power and network infrastructure. Once installed, systems were configured through software, allowing rapid deployment across multiple rooms. The transition from temporary setups to permanent installations created a consistent, on-demand environment for recording and streaming.

“It was a notable achievement in that they are now ‘on demand’ and no longer require a user to contact IT two to three days ahead of time to set up a room,”

The permanent installations eliminated the need for IT staff to perform repeated setup tasks or adjust schedules to accommodate events. The shift reduced labor demands and improved overall operational efficiency. The standardized configurations also enabled better network performance optimization for audiovisual applications.

The move to permanent PTZ systems improved reliability and security across campus. The fixed installations reduced the risk of connection errors or equipment misconfiguration that could occur with temporary setups. The network settings, including addresses and protocols, were standardized and optimized to ensure consistent performance. As a result, CMU experienced fewer disruptions and more predictable system behavior during live classes and events.

One of the most significant benefits emerged during the pandemic, when institutions rapidly shifted to remote and hybrid instruction. CMU was able to continue delivering classes with minimal changes to teaching methods. The instructors maintained their normal lecture style while students accessed content in real time, including presentations, notes and multimedia materials. The continuity helped preserve engagement and provided a stable learning experience during a period of disruption.

“During the pandemic, it allowed us to continue with classes with minimal changes,”

“With everything else in chaos, having classes as normal as possible greatly enhanced the student learning.”

The ability to deliver consistent, real-time video supported both faculty and students as they adapted to new instructional models. CMU’s investment in permanent, network-based systems proved critical in maintaining academic continuity.

Since deployment, CMU has reported strong reliability and minimal need for technical support. When assistance has been required, AVer’s support team has responded quickly and effectively.

“The AVer equipment is simple to install, configure and use, and has been very reliable,”

“Support has been quick to reply, knowledgeable and professional and solved our issues very quickly.”

Today, CMU operates a standardized, scalable video infrastructure that supports lecture capture, live streaming and hybrid learning across its campuses. The ability to deliver consistent video without additional staffing has improved efficiency and reduced operational complexity. By leveraging AVer’s IP-based camera systems, the university has positioned itself to support evolving instructional needs.

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