What does the term "latency" refer to in an AV context?

In the context of audiovisual systems, "latency" specifically refers to the delay in signal processing. This means that there is a measurable amount of time that passes between the moment an audio or video signal is captured, processed, and ultimately output. In practical terms, high latency can create noticeable delays that might disrupt the experience, particularly in scenarios that require synchronization—like live performances or real-time communication.

Latency can arise from various factors such as the type of equipment used, the complexity of signal processing, and the medium through which the signal travels. For instance, digital processing often incurs more latency compared to analog systems due to the time taken for encoding, decoding, and converting the signal. Understanding and managing latency is crucial in the audiovisual design process to ensure that audio and video are in sync and that the overall user experience is seamless.

The other options, while related to the overall audiovisual context, do not accurately define latency. For instance, the distance between equipment may affect signal strength and quality but does not define latency. Similarly, installation costs are related to budget considerations rather than signal processing delays, and the quality of video output pertains to resolution and clarity, not the time taken for signal processing.