Netgear AV showcased its new Align Controller and expanded network switch portfolio at Infocomm 2026. Housed in a half-rack chassis, the Align Controller functions as a dedicated hardware AV platform featuring six PoE Ethernet ports. It acts as a centralized host for running network management services and executing profile configurations.
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The device operates on the Engage AV OS, a specialized operating system designed for managing AV network profiles. Remote access to the Align Controller is provided via the Insight management platform, enabling configuration and monitoring from off-site locations. The hardware display on the front panel provides direct access to port connection status, IP addresses, firmware versions, and system alerts.
The Align Controller consolidates critical network utilities on a single device. Supported services include Syslog, DNS, DHCP, and Precision Time Protocol (PTP), eliminating the need for separate dedicated hardware for each protocol. This centralization supports the stability and timing requirements of AV-over-IP distribution.
A Linux-based, Docker-containerized app store is integrated into the Align Controller platform, launching in August. This environment permits developers, integrators, and over 600 industry partners to package and run custom applications, including AI-assisted tools, directly on the controller to customize network behaviors.
Netgear AV also displayed its broader switch lines, including the M4350 and the new MS4320 model designed for live events and remote productions. The MS4320 features locking Neutrik etherCON and powerCON connectors, with a card slot supporting optional SFP, copper, and Neutrik opticalCON modules. The M4250 series switches were featured for gigabit AV networking applications requiring PoE capabilities and ten-gigabit uplinks.
