When Mille Lacs Electric Cooperative began construction on its new headquarters near Aitkin, MN, the team reached out to Digital Horizons with a complex goal: design and install a multifunctional AV system that would serve as both a large-format meeting space and a fully equipped boardroom. Each use case had distinct demands, from wide-angle visibility for large groups to high-quality audio and video capture for remote board meetings. Our challenge was to deliver a system that could handle both—seamlessly and intuitively.

The solution started with smart room planning and high-output visuals. A projection system was installed with a screen large enough to serve 40-person team meetings, paired with a projector calibrated for brightness and visibility, even in a well-lit environment. We calculated screen brightness using foot-lambert measurements to ensure image clarity from every angle in the room. This laid the foundation for a professional presentation environment that could flex with the needs of the cooperative’s staff and board.

For boardroom functionality and video conferencing, we focused on audio fidelity and camera placement. A ClearOne beamforming ceiling microphone array captures crystal-clear audio from a wide radius, so participants can speak at normal volume regardless of their seating arrangement. A centrally placed 4K camera, positioned at eye level between two 75” displays, ensures remote participants feel connected and engaged. The layout minimizes the awkward angles that can disconnect remote viewers from the in-room experience.

To support various meeting modes, we deployed a video matrix system with flexible routing options. It manages multiple inputs—like Apple TV, dual computer monitors, and auxiliary HDMI—and routes them to any of the five display outputs: the projector, the two main TVs, and two side-mounted confidence monitors. This gives presenters the flexibility to show different content in different zones or mirror one source across the room. The Apple TV also allows staff to review customer-facing media, streaming content, or internal resources on demand.

The system is operated through a custom-programmed RTI control system, accessible via a dedicated wall-mounted touchscreen near the entrance and a wireless iPad docked at the conference table. Users can select between two core modes—“Boardroom” or “Large Meeting”—and the system auto-configures lighting, audio routing, display activation, and input switching accordingly. AV sources can be independently selected for each display, ensuring intuitive control without the need for technical know-how.

All equipment—ranging from AV hardware to networking and surge protection—was neatly installed in a ventilated, wheeled equipment rack hidden behind custom cabinetry. Built with a generous service loop and full pull-out access, the rack ensures future maintenance or upgrades can be completed with ease. From high-level meetings to all-hands trainings, the Mille Lacs Electric Cooperative now has a professional, easy-to-use video conferencing system that adapts to their needs, supports hybrid collaboration, and elevates every presentation.