Technology upgrade transforms CUH teaching space

25 Aug 2026

One of the busiest teaching spaces shared by University College Cork (UCC), Cork University Hospital (CUH) and the Health Service Executive (HSE) has undergone a €100,000 audiovisual upgrade. Located in CUH, the enhancements deliver sharper images, clearer sound, simpler controls, and a significantly improved experience for both in room and remote participants.

A room that never stops working

As a widely used teaching space shared by UCC and CUH, the room hosts lectures, events and weekly Grand Rounds, bringing together medical students, clinicians and academic staff both in person and online from hospitals across the Southwest Hospital region. New intelligent cameras that track presenters and capture audience discussions help create a more engaging and inclusive experience for everyone taking part.

Upgrade works phased around teaching

Given the room's busy schedule, the upgrades were carefully phased throughout the 2025/26 academic year to minimise disruption to teaching and clinical activities. Most of the work was completed during a single intensive weekend in March 2026, allowing the room to remain operational throughout the project.

A collaborative effort between UCC and the HSE

HSE facilities team completed electrical upgrades to enhance Wi-Fi coverage, while UCC IT Services and the School of Medicine's AV specialist worked together to design and implement the dedicated AV network and supporting network infrastructure. Together, these improvements provide power and connectivity for the room’s new cameras and control systems through a simpler and more flexible infrastructure.

Brian Bugler, IT Services said: “Strong collaboration across UCC and HSE enabled us to deliver the upgrade within budget while keeping this busy teaching space operational.”

Uwe Schiller, School of Medicine AV Specialist, said: "By simplifying hybrid teaching workflows and improving monitoring and presenter control, the new AV system has enhanced the experience for lecturers, students and support staff while significantly reducing operational complexity."

What is new in the room?

Improved picture and sound: New projection, speakers and audio equipment deliver clearer visuals, better colour accuracy and improved sound throughout the room.

Easier for presenters: A redesigned lectern, USB-C connectivity and upgraded controls make it simpler to connect devices and manage presentations. A new document camera allows materials to be displayed clearly on screen.

Better audience participation: New wireless and Catchbox microphones make it easier for attendees to ask questions and engage in discussions.

Designed for hybrid teaching and events: New cameras, improved networking and enhanced Wi-Fi support hybrid teaching, online meetings and conferences.

A smarter, greener setup: Energy-efficient amplifiers reduce power consumption and support UCC's sustainability goals.

What it means for students and staff

Clearer medical images, improved sound and enhanced audience participation create a more engaging experience for those attending both in person and online. Simpler controls and upgraded hybrid technology make the space easier to use, while enabling students and clinicians from across the region to connect and collaborate seamlessly. Colleagues are encouraged to visit before semester begins to familiarise themselves with the new facilities.