By Michael Canfield
IT Communication Specialist

UBIT initiated the first phase of a series of technological upgrades at the JSMBS this summer. The building, completed in 2017, was designed with advanced technology to support contemporary learning, said Adam Pellittieri, Audio/Visual Systems Engineer for UBIT Customer Service. Seven years later, much of the technology now needs to be replaced. The multi-year plan focuses on refreshing the tech in all 23 centrally-scheduled spaces, starting with the M&T Bank Auditorium.

The JSMBS classroom upgrades involved replacing nearly every piece of equipment. JSMBS features two divisible lecture halls, requiring the integration of video, audio, and control systems to create UB's second-largest instructional space, Pellittieri said. 

“UBIT also did a full replacement of the student microphone system that has been a regular challenge for the instructors, students, and support staff since its initial installation, which ended up being the bulk of the labor on this project,” he added.  

The primary objective was to simplify and stabilize the experiences of the faculty and staff who use the space. The new installation reduced extra cabling and leveraged existing UBIT infrastructure, resulting in a higher quality experience with less complexity. 

UBIT also initiated significant upgrades in lecture halls 125 and 190 in the Pharmacy building, focusing on integrating advanced technology and improving overall functionality. Originally planned as a carpet replacement project, it expanded to a comprehensive modernization effort, highlighting the university’s commitment to enhancing educational spaces, said Steven Crane, instructional support technician for UBIT Customer Service.

The project involved extensive collaboration among various departments, the registrar’s office, and third-party vendors, Crane said, including the university's electricians, masons, carpenters and painters.   

“Overall, this project showcases a comprehensive approach to modernizing educational spaces, emphasizing functionality, accessibility, and faculty and staff experience enhancement through integrated technology solutions,” he added. 

The Pharmacy building, renovated last in 2012 during the “Analog Sunset,” was UB's first fully digital lecture hall installation, Crane said. Over the past 12 years, only minor technology updates had been made. Recognizing the need for a comprehensive upgrade, the university embarked on this project to align with current digital standards, including the latest in capture technology and laser projectors. 

“It was due to be upgraded to meet today’s digital experience,” he said. 

The Pharmacy lecture halls now feature redesigned, adjustable-height lecterns with dual monitors, allowing for an extended desktop view and simultaneous display of multiple devices. Infrastructure improvements include extensive floor trenching, conduit extension, and the installation of high-speed cabling to support the new technology. An additional camera was added to facilitate distance learning and remote presentations. Other features include three wireless microphones, course capture capabilities, a document camera, and both wired and wireless BYOD (Bring Your Own Device) options using AirMedia.  

“We hope that faculty and students enjoy using the space and that it improves the ability to see, hear, learn and most importantly, retain the information being delivered,” Crane said. 

Classroom upgrades often involve the installation of new video projectors, touch panels, control systems, and network switches. “It’s a lot to pull all the groups together and stay on a timeline,” said Sam Hixon, Classroom Systems Technician with UBIT Customer Service. 

The extent of classroom upgrades varies widely, Hixon said. Some updates involve replacing a single piece of equipment, which can be completed in a day. More extensive projects include completely replacing all equipment or even undertaking full room renovations, such as updating chairs, carpets, and lighting. Complete renovations can take several weeks due to the coordination required among various groups, including AV techs, electricians, cable installers, and furniture providers. 

“A few years ago, we started installing a course capture PC in every classroom to allow instructors to record their lectures,” Hixon added. “In the past, this feature was only available in the larger lecture halls.” 

Thanks to the efforts of UBIT’s staff, faculty and students in JSMBS and the Pharmacy building can enjoy an enhanced environment to teach and learn in.