Dublin City University
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introduction

Dublin City University (DCU) is a prominent Irish university with over 16,000 students recognized for its leadership in STEM education and research. The Polaris Building is a brand-new, state-of-the-art facility on the Glasnevin campus that can accommodate 3,000 students who were previously spread out across four different buildings. The addition takes the university’s teaching, learning, and research offerings to the next level, and represents a major investment in the technological and educational infrastructure.

Case Study: Dublin City University

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the challenge

The Polaris Building was created to support DCU’s strategic goals in STEM education, research, and innovation which would be enhanced by a digital transformation initiative. The project aimed to enhance the student experience by providing modern classrooms, laboratories, and collaborative learning spaces that would position DCU as a global leader in hybrid learning and advanced educational technologies.

the solution

IT consultant Hereworks joined the project during the design development stage, which enabled close collaboration with architects and engineers to seamlessly incorporate AV solutions to these spaces. They selected Crestron content, collaboration, and control solutions to modernize and bring an advanced learning experience to campus, backed by the Crestron XiO Cloud® technology operations management platform for smooth monitoring.

Case Study: Dublin City University
Case Study: Dublin City University
 
"Our team has had a history with Dublin City University, and the breadth of solutions from Crestron technology has allowed us to deliver the right solutions every time."
Leslie Gannon
Operations Manager,
Hereworks

the technology

Dublin City University supports cutting-edge research in fields such as artificial intelligence, robotics, biotechnology, and data science. From its Internet of Things Lab to its Movement Lab, the Polaris Building features purpose-built learning spaces that cover a a variety of modalities where students can benefit from specialized approaches. While the rooms were diverse, it was important that the technology remained consistent to deliver the best experience for faculty and students. Crestron VC-4 Virtual Control was deployed to centralize control of all AV systems, ensuring scalability and redundancy. Crestron control supports flexible room configurations and hybrid learning models, making it adaptable to evolving educational needs.

Hybrid classrooms were equipped with wireless presentation tools, video conferencing systems, and flexible display setups to support both in-person and remote learners. Standard classrooms implemented Crestron AirMedia® wireless presentation technology for students and teachers to share content to the screen from any device, as well as Crestron touch screens for a familiar user interface in any room. For more advanced collaboration, the Crestron Automate VX multi-camera speaker tracking solution was deployed for intelligent video tracking, enhanced hybrid learning by automatically focusing on active speakers. The Automate VX solution facilitates remote participation in hybrid classrooms as well as higher student engagement.

Case Study: Dublin City University
Case Study: Dublin City University
Case Study: Dublin City University

The Crestron XiO Cloud platform was implemented to enable remote monitoring, control, and management of AV systems across the Polaris Building. XiO Cloud has helped reduce maintenance costs and system downtime, contributing to a more reliable and efficient AV environment. Through the XiO Cloud platform, DCU can remotely manage multiple rooms from a single location using the Crestron VC-4 server, improving operational efficiency, The solution plays a key role in supporting hybrid learning environments, enabling seamless content distribution and control across classrooms and labs. XiO Cloud management contributes to DCU’s vision of “borderless classrooms,” where content and collaboration can flow freely across different spaces and campuses.

The XiO Cloud platform also provides centralized configuration and management of the extensive Crestron DM NVX® AV-over-IP technology deployment, streamlining the operation of a large-scale AV-over-IP network. The platform supports proactive maintenance, providing predictive analytics and alerts, which helps the university identify and resolve issues before they affect operations. Crestron DM NVX technology ensures high-quality audio and video signals, enabling flexible and scalable content sharing. The DM NVX platform delivers low latency, perfect for real-time observation of the Robotics Lab during live robot operations.

 
"Every stage of the process from brainstorming sessions, installation, and program design was to a very high standard and the Crestron programmers delivered on everything we hoped to achieve with this project."
Keith Hickey
Information and Education Technology Manager,
Dublin City University

the results

Crestron technology has helped DCU expand student potential and offer flexible, scalable, and secure solutions. The integration of the XiO Cloud platform has helped DCU achieve a future-proof AV infrastructure, aligning wih its long-term goals for digital transformation and innovation in education. The Polaris Building achieved Nearly Zero Energy Building (NZEB) compliance and an A2 energy rating by implementing sustainable practices and using environmental impact assessment tools.

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AirMedia Wireless Presentation and Conferencing

Crestron AirMedia® technology makes it simple to transform meeting spaces into high-quality BYOD spaces. Add plug-and-play wireless and wired presentation and conferencing from any compatible personal device. When not in use for meetings, create human connection with digital signage. Command spaces with Crestron control, built into the heart of all AirMedia products.

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Crestron DM NVX AV-over-IP technology

DM NVX® AV-over-IP technology combines video, audio, USB, and control on a single platform to reliably distribute anything across your entire network — in real time, at the highest quality and security standards.

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Crestron XiO Cloud and XiO Cloud Premium

The XiO Cloud® platform gives you two powerful subscription options to deploy, monitor, and manage all your workplace technology from one dashboard. Organization-wide. View status. Configure devices. Check network settings. Manage licenses and firmware. All from one secure location in the cloud.

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