Different Kinds of Audience Response System Hardware

While wired audience response systems can be found, the majority of professional audience response vendors only use wireless models. There are two prevailing technologies used to send the answers from the keypad units to the base stations: radio frequency (RF) and infrared (IR). A few vendors also have Internet-based software that transmits the data through an IP address and can be used with wireless notebook computers or other wireless hand-held devices, such as Palms and Pocket PCs.

Radio Frequency (RF): RF audience response systems are ideal for large group environments. They usually 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 transmits via radio frequency, no line-of-sight between keypad and base station is required. The participant just 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 people worldwide to take part in the same presentation simultaneously.

Infrared (IR): Infrared audience response systems are perfect for small or medium-sized group environments. Executive decision making, corporate training and small university classrooms all use the IR platform successfully. Infrared not well-equipped for tremendously large rooms or outdoor events (where direct sunlight can affect the IR data transmission). While not as robust as radio frequency hardware, the IR audience response systems are light-weight, easy to carry and very affordable – even for smaller budgets.

Browser-Based: A newer technology, Internet-based audience response systems are still in the early stages of development. 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 transmitted via wi-fi Internet from the participants’ wireless device to the facilitator’s machine, 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 transfer of data routes through an IP address, proximity to a base station or line-of-sight is not an issue. As long as the individual has Internet access, he can participate.

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