Symetrix reaches Cognio milestone at Monash University

Australia:

Monash University has become the first higher education institution to deploy Symetrix's Cognio distributed AV and control platform, marking a significant milestone for the manufacturer's software-defined AV strategy.

Delivered in partnership with Symetrix and PAVT Australia & New Zealand, the deployment supports Monash University's ongoing development of active learning environments across its campus.

As teaching models continue to evolve, Monash sought an AV platform capable of supporting a range of learning spaces while maintaining consistency, scalability and operational flexibility.

“Active learning environments require scalability, engagement and reliability,” explained Peter MacLean, audiovisual design manager and lead audiovisual architect at Monash University. “The technology powering those spaces has to evolve alongside the way students and educators interact. We were looking for a modern solution that could support different room types and changing requirements without forcing us into completely separate workflows or management models.”

Unlike conventional AV systems that rely on centralised processing and control, Cognio has been designed to distribute intelligence throughout the system. This allows individual spaces to be managed and updated independently while maintaining standardised user experiences across campus.

The installation is centred around Cognio C20 processors and utilises Cognio Spaces, Signal Flow and Control Screen workflows. The platform was integrated with Monash University's existing AV infrastructure, including Shure ANX4 and ULXD wireless systems, Powersoft Mezzo amplifiers, EAW MKC loudspeakers, Crestron NVX, Lightware, Audinate AVIO and Echo360 lecture capture technologies. The project also incorporates the Cognio API through Crestron integration, enabling interoperability between audio, video and control systems.

“Universities manage a broad range of learning environments, but instructors still expect a consistent experience from room to room,” MacLean added. “As teaching models continue evolving, we needed an approach that could adapt alongside those changes without forcing constant redesigns."

Mark Graham, CEO of Symetrix, said: “Monash University is exactly the type of institution we envisioned when developing Cognio. Leading organisations need systems that scale naturally, adapt continuously and avoid the limitations created by centralised architectures. Monash's commitment to innovation and active learning made them an ideal partner to demonstrate what's possible with distributed AV.”

Following the initial rollout, Monash plans to expand Cognio into additional teaching, multipurpose, sports and worship spaces across its campus.