Trade shows move fast, and exhibitors often spend months planning booth graphics, promotional materials, and staffing while overlooking important AV details. Unfortunately, many of the most common trade show problems don’t appear until setup day.
Whether you’re exhibiting at the New Orleans Ernest N. Morial Convention Center, a hotel ballroom, or a regional expo, this trade show AV checklist can help you avoid last-minute surprises.
1. Confirm Power Requirements
One of the most common mistakes exhibitors make is assuming power is included with their booth space. Many venues require electrical service to be ordered separately.
Before the event, confirm:
- Number of power drops needed
- Equipment voltage requirements
- Extension cord needs
- Equipment placement locations
2. Verify Internet Requirements
If you’re demonstrating software, collecting leads, or streaming content, internet access is critical.
Venue Wi-Fi may not be sufficient for:
- Product demonstrations
- Live presentations
- Video conferencing
- Payment processing
Always verify internet availability and bandwidth requirements before arriving on-site.
3. Choose the Right Booth Monitor Size
A display that looks large in the office may look tiny in a crowded exhibit hall.
General guidelines:
- 43″ to 55″ displays for smaller booths
- 65″ to 85″ displays for larger exhibits
- LED video walls for maximum visibility
The right display size depends on viewing distance and booth layout.
4. Bring Backup Content
Technology can fail at the worst possible time.
Keep presentations available in multiple locations:
- Laptop
- USB flash drive
- Cloud storage
- Backup computer when possible
A simple backup plan can prevent a major disruption.
5. Don’t Overlook Audio
Many exhibitors focus entirely on video displays and forget audio requirements.
Depending on your booth, you may need:
- Small speaker systems
- Wireless microphones
- Presentation audio
- Product demonstration sound
The right audio setup can significantly improve attendee engagement.
6. Consider Viewing Distance
The larger the exhibit hall, the more important display visibility becomes.
Ask yourself:
- Can attendees see the screen from the aisle?
- Is text readable from a distance?
- Are videos visible in bright environments?
Display size should always match audience viewing distance.
7. Use Lighting to Attract Attention
Good lighting helps a booth stand out from surrounding exhibitors.
Popular options include:
- Booth accent lighting
- Product lighting
- LED uplighting
- Backlit displays
Strategic lighting can make a significant difference in booth visibility.
8. Plan for Setup and Strike
Trade show move-in schedules can be strict.
Before arriving:
- Confirm move-in times
- Review loading dock procedures
- Arrange labor if needed
- Understand move-out requirements
Preparation helps avoid delays and additional fees.
9. Consider Registration and Sponsor Displays
Digital signage isn’t just for exhibit booths.
Many events use displays for:
- Registration areas
- Event schedules
- Wayfinding
- Sponsor recognition
Strategically placed displays can improve attendee experience and sponsor visibility.
10. Work With an AV Partner Familiar With the Venue
Every venue has unique rules, access procedures, and technical requirements.
Working with a local AV company familiar with New Orleans trade shows can simplify logistics and reduce setup issues before they become problems.
Need Trade Show AV Rentals in New Orleans?
Power On Productions provides professional trade show AV rentals in New Orleans, including booth monitors, TVs, LED video walls, sound systems, lighting, pipe and drape, staging, and on-site technical support.
Whether you’re exhibiting at a convention center, hotel, or corporate expo, our team can help ensure your booth looks professional and performs reliably throughout the event.