How do I choose rack diagram software for mixed AV + IT racks?

Author : Gwen D' Pots | Published On : 04 Nov 2025

In modern facilities, technology racks are no longer exclusive to one discipline. AV professionals often find themselves working alongside IT teams, combining audiovisual systems with data networking, security, and control equipment in shared spaces. Designing and managing these integrated racks requires precise visualization, documentation, and collaboration. This is where the right rack diagram software becomes essential.

XTEN-AV, a leading name in the AV design automation space, offers a professional solution that bridges the gap between AV and IT workflows. Whether you are designing a corporate communication system, a control room, or a large-scale data center with media distribution equipment, the right tool can make all the difference.

Let us explore how to choose the right rack design software for mixed AV and IT racks.

Understanding the challenges of mixed AV + IT racks

When you combine AV and IT gear within the same rack, you encounter unique challenges. AV systems typically focus on signal flow, latency, and control, while IT systems revolve around network topology, bandwidth, and uptime. This difference in priorities can complicate design and documentation.

Common challenges include:

Space management: AV equipment often has varying dimensions and cooling requirements, while IT racks usually follow standardized sizes.
Power distribution: AV amplifiers and DSP units can draw more power than typical IT switches.
Cable routing: AV relies on HDMI, SDI, or balanced audio cabling, while IT depends on Ethernet or fiber cables.
Equipment databases: IT tools may not have detailed AV gear specifications, and vice versa.

A good rack diagram software must therefore balance both worlds by supporting flexible layouts, hybrid equipment databases, and scalable documentation tools.

1. Look for multi-discipline compatibility

The most important factor in choosing rack design software for AV and IT is compatibility across device types. The software should allow you to import or build libraries for both AV gear (like switchers, amplifiers, DSPs) and IT hardware (servers, routers, patch panels).

XTEN-AV, for example, provides an extensive, cloud-based database that includes thousands of devices across brands and categories. This makes it easy to drag-and-drop components from both AV and IT domains into the same rack design without format conflicts.

Multi-discipline support ensures consistency in documentation and reduces the need to maintain separate tools for AV and IT.

2. Prioritize intelligent automation features

Manual rack layout can become time-consuming, especially for large installations. Choose rack diagram software that includes automation for alignment, cable labeling, and rack height management.

For example, some modern tools automatically calculate rack space (in RU), check for overcapacity, and even alert you about power or ventilation issues. This helps prevent costly mistakes before installation begins.

XTEN-AV goes a step further by offering AI-driven automation, enabling faster rack population, equipment grouping, and documentation generation — saving hours in manual drafting and error-checking.

3. Ensure accurate visualization and scalability

A mixed AV + IT rack layout can involve dozens or even hundreds of components. The rack design software you choose should provide clear visual clarity and scalability. Look for:

Layered views (front/rear, power, and signal)
Zoom and layout options for large projects
2D and 3D visualization modes
Dynamic scaling for different rack sizes

These visualization features make it easier for teams to understand the entire system at a glance — crucial when multiple departments (like AV integration and IT management) are collaborating.

4. Integration with signal-flow and network diagrams

Since AV and IT racks are often part of larger systems, the rack diagram software should integrate seamlessly with other design tools for wiring, schematics, or signal flow.

For example, XTEN-AV allows direct integration between rack layouts and system diagrams. When a designer updates a device in the schematic, the corresponding rack layout updates automatically. This level of synchronization eliminates duplication and ensures accuracy across project documentation.

This is particularly useful for hybrid projects like digital signage networks, video conferencing systems, or smart building control hubs — all of which merge AV and IT technologies.

5. Evaluate collaboration and cloud accessibility

In hybrid work environments, teams are often distributed across locations. Cloud-based rack design software is essential for real-time collaboration and version control.

Features to look for include:

Multi-user editing
Automatic version tracking
Role-based access (for integrators, clients, and IT administrators)
Secure cloud storage

XTEN-AV provides all of these capabilities, enabling seamless collaboration between designers, engineers, and project managers. Real-time updates ensure everyone works with the latest design version, reducing miscommunication and revision errors.

6. Check for export and documentation options

Good design is only half the battle. The next step is sharing clear, professional documentation with installers and clients. Choose a rack design software that supports:

PDF or CAD export
Automated equipment lists (BOMs)
Cable schedules
Label printing
Integration with project management platforms

These features streamline the transition from design to implementation. With XTEN-AV, for instance, users can generate detailed installation-ready documents automatically — a major time-saver for both AV and IT professionals.

7. Consider cost, scalability, and support

Finally, factor in pricing and long-term scalability. Some tools offer perpetual licenses, while others follow a subscription model. Compare the total cost of ownership, including updates and support.

For teams handling diverse projects — from small AV racks to enterprise IT setups — scalable subscription models can be more economical. XTEN-AV offers flexible plans that adapt to both small design studios and large integration firms.

Additionally, look for responsive customer support and regular feature updates. A reliable support team is crucial when handling complex multi-technology environments.

Conclusion

Choosing the right rack diagram software for mixed AV and IT racks requires balancing technical flexibility, automation, visualization, and collaboration. As the boundaries between AV and IT continue to blur, the need for a unified, intelligent design platform becomes even more critical.

XTEN-AV stands out as a leading rack design software solution, offering AI-powered automation, cross-discipline device libraries, and seamless cloud-based collaboration — making it an excellent choice for professionals designing integrated AV and IT systems.

Whether you are a system designer, consultant, or integrator, the right software can save you time, minimize errors, and deliver precision-driven results. The goal is simple — build smarter, faster, and more integrated technology environments with the right tools by your side.