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Diverse Types of Audience Response Hardware

November 24, 2008

Although wired audience response systems can be found, the majority of professional ARS companies only use wireless models. There are two prevailing technologies used to transmit the responses from the keypad units to the base stations: radio frequency (RF) and infrared (IR). A few companies also have browser-based software that routes the data through an IP address and can be implemented with wireless notebook computers or other wireless hand-held devices, like Palms and Pocket PCs.

Radio Frequency (RF): RF audience response systems are perfect for large group environments. They typically have a larger base station and keypad than their infrared counterparts. Although bulky, the RF system has a larger participant capacity and longer range. Because the data travels via radio frequency, no line-of-sight between keypad and base station is required. The participant merely needs to be within range of the base station (often up to 300 – 500 feet). Some models have advanced features, such as flagging the presenter, multi-digit answers, user log-in capabilities, multiple correct answer selection and even multi-site capabilities allowing groups worldwide to take part in the same presentation simultaneously.

Infrared (IR): IR audience response systems are ideal for small or medium-sized group environments. Executive decision making, corporate training and small college classrooms all use the IR platform successfully. IRtechnology requires line-of-sight between the keypad and base station, and is extremely large rooms or outdoor events (where direct sunlight can affect the IR data transmission). While not as feature-rich as radio frequency keypads, the IR audience response systems are light-weight, portable and very affordable – even for smaller budgets.

Browser-Based: An emerging technology, browser-based audience response systems are still in the early stages of the product life-cycle. It is usually sold as a software-only system, compatible with the client’s existing wireless devices. Only one copy of the software is required, which resides on the facilitator’s computer. When the facilitator creates a polling session, an IP address is assigned to that session. Participants log-in to that IP address through their own notebook computer or Pocket PC. The data is sent via wi-fi Internet from the participants’ wireless device to the facilitator’s computer, where the data is stored. The data is then shown to the audience through the projector and also on each participant’s hand-held device. Because the transmission of data routes through an IP address, closeness to a base station or line-of-sight is not an issue. As long as the individual has Internet connectivity, he can participate.

For more information about specific ARS hardware platforms, contact a professional ARS company.

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