Last Friday morning, the technical crew of my staff was standing outdoors, indulging in a few minutes that we refer to as the USB or “union smoke break.” One of the things that we all remarked on was that winter was setting in, and it was getting cold.
We had no idea at the time how cold it was about to get.
In our company, we deal mostly with financial firms, banks and hedge funds. They are hard-driving businesses, precise in the way they work, and while we enjoy working with the technology that they require, they’re not what we would refer to most of the time as fun people.
And yet, we are a 38-year-old company, and before our town became the capital of the investment industry in the United States, we were the hometown audiovisual company for a lot of Connecticut’s schools. Several of them are still with us as clients, and have been through a number of generations of school personnel. And while they can’t produce the kind of revenue that the trading floors can, there is a special kind of psychic income that we get from them. On the day that we are installing something for one of them, you can usually see it in the attitude in the office. It is fun when we can share the kind of technology that we work with with the school. The thought that perhaps we can help a young child to discover the thrill of learning, or even that we can make them laugh when they watch a movie in their new auditorium, can make the job fun. It’s always great when you’re working on the final programming of a system and you feel a tug at your sleeve and one of these little kids wants to know what it is that you are doing. It makes our day.
For us, one of these places is called Sandy Hook Elementary School. It’s a pleasant little place located out in the rural Connecticut that I love so much. It’s not the kind of place that you think of with drugs, violence, or street gangs. It’s the kind of place that you think of when you think of bake sales and PTA meetings and volunteer fire departments.
This morning, a young man took the lives of 27 people in that school. None of us will ever understand what could make someone make targets of small children, to deny them the future that they were there to learn about, and to resign from humanity in such fashion. Twenty sets of parents will spend the rest of their lives searching for meaning in an act inherently meaningless. And all of us will find ourselves reduced in some way by the fact that one of us could do such a thing.
Today, some of us spent the day sending emails and making phone calls to determine if any of the people we knew were victims. Tomorrow, I’m sure we’ll find out, but will be unable to rejoice for those saved because of the memory of those who were not, and because of the knowledge that in some way today everyone was a victim.
For those of you who pray, I would ask that you pray for the children and parents of Sandy Hook school. For all of you, I would ask that you remember that the work we do for schools is important, and to keep working for all children.
Editor's Note: Joel's company, Everett Hall Associates, is managing a drive to donate art supplies to the Newton schools, since art therapy helps children deal with trauma. If you're interested in donating, email Mike Macri at mmacri@everetthall.com
AV People: Steven Emspak of Shen Milsom & Wilke, LLC
By Molly Stillman Director of Marketing & New Business Development
Steven Emspak, partner at AV consulting firm Shen Milsom & Wilke, LLC, wasted no time when I asked, “So, how did you get into the AV industry?”
He said, “The industry is so obtuse, there is no direct path. You don’t go to school and come out with a degree in AV psychoanalysis. You evolve into this industry. It’s really, really cool. The industry has all these interesting people with very different backgrounds. I say this with all love and respect, having been in this industry a long time — the early industry guys, myself included, were a bunch of ‘jacks of all trades, masters of none.’ The early AV guys had a roll of duct tape and a flashlight and probably told you, ‘Oh, I’ll take a look at that for you.’ That’s how a lot of people get into this industry and as a result gives us huge diversity.”
So, the long and the short of it is, Steve gradually made his way into the industry by way of the music and audio. Steve likes to refer to audio as the “forgotten stepchild of the AV community.”
As a little kid, Steve was curious about electronics. He remembers being a young child with a loudspeaker and transformer in hand — he plugged them into the wall and they broke. There may have also been a little smoke as a result. But the thought lingered and curiosity began to build.
At the same time, Steve had been playing around with music, as kids are often want to do, but he realized there was this convergence going on between instruments and audio equipment that he continued to explore.
On Halloween in 1966, Steve was drafted into the Army. After a few tests, the Army thought Steve had an aptitude towards electronics, and so, he was shipped off to the US Army Engineering School.
Fast forward to today. Steve, a highly successful AV consultant and member of the famous (infamous maybe?) AV band the Drunk Unkles, has one more thing he’s dealing with these days that many people may not know about: the loss of his hearing. Steve, an AV guy and a musician, wears hearing aids — and is almost deaf without them.
In January of 2006, Steven was attending a NAMM show and at the back of the room they had the H.E.A.R. institute doing free hearing screenings, so he decided to get checked out.
As he came out from the test, the audiologist was holding the test results and asked Steven, “Do you look closely both ways before you cross the street?” He said, “It’s that bad, huh?” The audiologist replied, “Yes. It’s that bad.” His hearing, at this point, is degenerative. It’ll only continue to worsen.
Steve spoke of what his hearing loss is attributed, saying, “It was years and years of sticking my head in speakers and spending time at concerts and in nightclubs where sound systems were so huge my chest was caving in and we’d come and our ears would be ringing and we’d think it was awesome. And today, I think that it isn’t cool — it wasn’t cool. Why? Because today I can’t hear.” And that is a significant price to pay, with no refunds available.
He says, “We’re stupid. We don’t pay attention to the stuff going on around us — and at some point in the future, it may impact us — positively or negatively. First it was in the context of architecture and now in the context of hearing loss.”
“What do you mean?” I asked.
“What I mean,” Steve replied, “is, that things happen around us naturally. All kinds of things. A building goes up next to you. You remember seeing the notice, you remember learning about the construction, and you had the opportunity to say, ‘No, I don’t want that building there,’ but it’s too late. The building is there and you’ve lost the view, you’ve lost your sight or whatever. My brain transitions that same thought to hearing loss. I remember spending time trying to figure out what that buzz in the cabinet was and I’d tell the sound guy to ‘turn it up’ and there I am with my head in a speaker with the sound blaring. We weren’t paying attention, we all knew that sooner or later it would become a problem, we are not invincible!”
Steve is clearly passionate about this issue. He believes it’s his job, the job of his generation, to raise awareness — especially with the younger generation — to help them avoid ignorance.
“We [the AV industry] have an obligation to raise awareness. Even though the audio component has become a stepchild to video (and that will rear its head and come and bite us very soon!), as humans we cannot communicate as well if we can’t hear. And we can prevent it.”
Steve also spoke of other preventative measures, saying, “Don’t ignore it. Get your hearing checked, even if you think nothing’s wrong. If you’ve been walking around with those earbuds too loud, you’re bound to do damage at some point. Pay attention. Get tested. Understand what’s going on. Don’t be an idiot and believe that you are invincible because you are not.”
So, what does Steve do when he’s not being an AV consultant and raising awareness of hearing loss? Well, he’s probably spending time with his wife Meryl or his two daughters, Stacey, 29, and Danielle, 25.
Steve lives out on Long Island with his wife, but a number a years ago, they bought an old farm house in the epicenter of the musical community of New York state: Woodstock.
It’s been a solid six-year project, but Steve and Meryl have been remodeling the old home and rebuilding it piece by piece, soon to tackle re-building the outhouse!
“Work is work, and it’s fun,” he said. “You can involve your family and friends in that, but you need to spend time with them. But I guess when anybody who spends a good portion of their life in a particular industry, gradually, your friends and family are that industry. And I like to think they’re all my friends and a part of my family.”
Well said, Steve. Well said.
Molly Stillman is the director of marketing and new business development for rAVe [Publications]. Reach her at molly@ravepubs.com
Do you know someone in the industry with an interesting story that should be featured in our monthly column? Email Molly and let her know.
Yesterday, I was hunting through quotes by one of my favorite authors, Robert A. Heinlein. I was looking for the exact text of his famous quote about technology sufficiently developed being indistinguishable from magic.
But I came across another quote, attributed to this groundbreaking author of science fiction, although I'm sure it is probably older. And I'm sure of that because it's something I consider a basic truth, one our forefathers would have termed "self-evident."
It was: "When one teaches, two learn."
Let me explain why I believe this to be true.
I came into this industry about 28 years ago; I was a hotel manager recruited by my favorite AV company to take over the sales and marketing of their rental and staging department. My boss was Terry Friesenborg, the rental manager (now vice president of InfoComm). This was the early ‘80s, and video and data projection systems were the hot new technology in AV rental. Terry, widely acknowledged as a leader in adopting these new technologies, as well as more traditional AV technologies, had been asked by ICIA to develop and teach a new Institute course: The Fundamentals of AV Rental Operations.
But Terry was a very busy rental manager, and, while he had a good outline for the course, it was now two weeks out from that Institute, and ICIA was asking for the manual for the course so that it could be reproduced and bound for the class, which was sold out. And I could write, after a fashion. So Terry hadn't just recruited me to take over rental sales, he had recruited me to help him produce that manual.
So we stole the giant IBM Selectric typewriter from the office, and the rental department's first Compaq portable PC (the sewing machine-style one with the 7" CRT built in). And we moved into my living room. For a week.
Now, I had always been an amateur photographer and was an early computer enthusiast, and had spent time building the crystal radios that you have all heard about. I had also worked closely with Terry on staging in my capacity as a facility manager. So I was not without technical background.
So, at the end of that week, I must have been one of the most knowledgeable newbies in the history of the audiovisual industry. Imagine being able to spend a solid week of one-on-one learning with an expert who was also a good teacher. Everything I have managed to do in this industry I can trace back to that week with Terry.
At the end of that week I was so drilled up on procedures, facts and figures that Terry asked me to come to Bloomington to teach the course with him. I have always loved teaching, had done a lot of it both in school and within a hotel organization, and was really looking forward to it.
Then Terry and his wife had a baby — the day we were due to leave for Bloomington.
Suddenly, I was the teacher. I had able help from a couple of our technicians, but the bulk of the classroom presentations would be on me.
The course was a smash success. It went on to be the bestseller among InfoComm courses for several years thereafter. And, at the time, I actually had the least amount of time actually working in the rental industry of anyone in the class.
Some of you will be reading this who did not know this until now.
Another side effect was that those basics, those procedures, those immutable laws of physics were all drilled into my head in ways that simply reading them and memorizing them never could. I came away from that class so confident in what I had learned, that I think I just went back to work and got to start in at a different level than I normally would have.
So the point of my story, and the quote from Robert Heinlein? The very best way to make any set of knowledge your own is to help pass it on to somebody else. Then you own it. Now, I’m not suggesting that any of you jump into a situation like I had. It sounds great now, but I had a number of anxiety attacks at the time. What I am suggesting is that anybody with a desire to stay on top of this technology, anybody who possesses knowledge that could help the rest of their organization, and any of you who just plain have talent for teaching get involved in doing so. Our industry organizations like InfoComm, CEDIA and NSCA all have need of good volunteer teachers. It sounds like a lot to give up a week or two of your time to teach, but trust me, you will walk away from the experience feeling much more confident in the knowledge that you possess.
Oh, and it looks pretty good on your resume, too.
(Note: if any of you have a desire to do this and are unsure of where to best utilize the knowledge that you have, or who just want to ask questions about being in industry trainer, send me an email or respond on our blog. I would be happy to help put you in touch with people that you could work with.)
rAVe Rental [and Staging] contributor Joel R. Rollins, CTS, is general manager of Everett Hall Associates, Inc. and is well known throughout the professional AV industry for his contributions to industry training and his extensive background in AV rental, staging and installation. Joel can be reached at joelrollins@mac.com
In what could be a shake-up on many levels of the projection market, Barco, today, bought a majority stake of projectiondesign. projectiondesign, a Norway-based projector manufacturer owned primarily by Herkules Capital, sold 61 percent of its stock to Barco, based in Belgium. The remaining shares of projectiondesign will be held by minority shareholders including projectiondesign's president Jorn Erickson – who, we have been told, will remain in charge of projectiondesign.
So, why is this a shake-up?
Well, for one, Barco has struggled in the projection market of late. They've simply dominated the LED market, but have not been able to keep any sizable market share in the meeting room, portable or education projection markets. In fact, they haven't been a top 5 manufacturer in any projection category (other than digital cinema) for nearly four years.
Also, projectiondesign is an OEM manufacturer for a few major brands based here in North America. Barco may decide to cut those ties and keep the projectiondesign line for themselves — as an OEM or continue under the projectiondesign brand — or both.
Finally, this gives Barco not only ProAV market share in projection, but also in the home cinema and home theater markets.
This will be one to watch carefully. And, expect more consolidation of projection brands in 2013 as we know of at least two other brands that are up for sale.
Below is the press release from Barco.
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Barco acquires majority share in Norway’s projectiondesign®
Barco, the Belgium-headquartered global leader in digital visualization, announced today that it has acquired 61% of the shares of projectiondesign®, a Norway-based leader in projection technology, from private equity fund Herkules Capital. The remaining shares of projectiondesign® are held by minority shareholders.
The combination of Barco and projectiondesign® creates a market leader in projection solutions for both large- and mid-venue markets. The transaction advances Barco’s strategy to expand into the mid-segment of its target markets and to strengthen its number one position in high-performance projection technology.
Projectiondesign® develops and manufactures compact projectors for a variety of professional markets including training and simulation, visitor attractions (museums, theme parks), scientific visualization, collaboration rooms (Corporate AV) and control rooms. The compact projectors are equipped with high-quality optics, high resolution and LED illumination, and feature quiet operation. The company custom-designs and develops all optics, hardware, software and industrial design for each projector model in-house. Founded in 2001, projectiondesign® is headquartered in Fredrikstad, Norway, and has 17 international offices. Projectiondesign® employs about 200 people and achieved sales of approximately €57 million in 2011.
Increased market share in the mid-venue market
“Projectiondesign® is a very well respected leader for projectors in the below 10k lumens range for professional markets. The company enjoys an enviable reputation for combining innovative technology with leading design,” comments Eric Van Zele, Barco’s CEO and President. “This investment clearly underscores our determination to pursue global growth in all mid-segment markets. With projectiondesign®, we will expand our portfolio to offer state-of-the-art solutions for the Simulation, Virtual Reality and Corporate AV markets as we continue to leverage our global sales coverage and our channels in Asia and Latin America in particular.”
Highlights
• Complementary product portfolio
Projectiondesign®’s product portfolio of compact, high-quality projectors rounds out Barco’s portfolio of business, large-venue and simulation projectors.
• Complementary technology
Barco’s focus on 3-chip DLP technology and high-brightness solutions for the large-venue market fits well with the focus of projectiondesign® on developing 1-chip DLP solutions for the mid-venue market. This collaboration between two industrial players will open up further growth opportunities in the mid-venue market.
• Complementary geographic footprint
Projectiondesign® has a strong presence in Northern Europe while Barco has strong sales coverage in Asia, Latin America and Europe. By joining forces with projectiondesign®, Barco will also increase its coverage in North America.
• Matching culture and values
Projectiondesign® and Barco share a similar entrepreneurial culture and both companies place high value on innovation and customer satisfaction.
About projectiondesign®
Projectiondesign® is a Norwegian company that designs, manufactures and markets a range of high- performance projectors and supporting systems for professional, business and consumer applications. Among its core markets are high-resolution scientific visualization, visual training and simulation, medical imaging, broadcast and post production, public media and entertainment. Projectiondesign® is located in Fredrikstad, Norway, with representatives in more than 17 offices throughout the world.
About Barco
Barco, a global technology company, designs and develops visualization products for a variety of selected professional markets. Barco has its own facilities for Sales & Marketing, Customer Support, R&D and Manufacturing in Europe, North America and Asia Pacific. Barco (NYSE Euronext Brussels: BAR) is active in more than 90 countries with about 3,700 employees worldwide. Barco posted sales of 1.041 billion euro in 2011.
U.K. AV companies AVM and Impact announced that they have merged their operations. AVM Impact will now be the U.K.'s largest provider of audiovisual and videoconferencing solutions, according to a statement.
"AVM Impact will benefit customers by combining each company's strengths and by taking advantage of economies of scale that have not yet been seen in the U.K. audiovisual market," said Edward Cook, CEO of AVM Impact. "We trust that all customers will enjoy the resulting and unparalleled pool of both offsite and onsite AV service engineers and benefit from the merged entity's superior purchasing power. AVM's existing customers will gain access to Impact's market-leading facilities management software solutions while Impact's existing customers will gain access to AVM's True Collaboration meeting-space solutions and AVM's creative services for digital signage."
AVM Impact will be headquartered in Sunbury, Middlesex, with additional offices throughout the U.K. You can learn about the new company here: http://avmimpact.com
Belden Buys PerfectPath Parent for Over $500 Million
Bloomberg is reporting that Belden, Inc., one of the world's largest manufacturers of cable, has acquired PPC, parent company of PerfectPath wire for $515.7 million.
Terms of the complete deal aren't being disclosed, but PPC is a 65-year old company that claims to have wired over 100 million homes in the US is known in the HomeAV market most recently for their PerfectPath line of HDMI wire.
According to Bloomberg, PPC had sales of $238 million in fiscal 2012 and were profitable. Belden expects 2012 calendar-year sales to be nearly $2 Billion.
The Gores Group Buys Harris Broadcast Communications for $225 Million
Remember earlier this year when The Gores Group acquired ELO Touch Solutions for $380 million?
Now The Gores Group will buy the Broadcast Communications division of Harris Corporation for $225 million. The price includes $160 million in cash at closing, a $15 million subordinated promissory note and an earn-out of up to $50 million based on future performance. The transaction, expected to be completed in early calendar year 2013, is subject to customary regulatory review (and closing conditions).
"The sale of Broadcast Communications reflects our strategy to optimize our business portfolio and focus on our core businesses," says William M. Brown, president and CEO of Harris.
The Broadcast Communications group of Harris holds far more than Digital Signage, but Harris is a significant DOOH player helping companies like 7-Eleven TV across 4344 stores.
The Harris Broadcast division will retain the Harris name for another three years while it transitions to a new brand. No products or product lines are being targeted for discontinuation. In broadcasting, the latest Versio release — introduced at IBC — is on track to ship this month. A major product announcement in the workflow, infrastructure and networking space, or WIN, is in the works.
Accounting at Harris broke out $447.6 million as a write-down for Harris Broadcast Communications in its last fiscal.
"In Harris Broadcast Communications, we are investing in a proven technology leader with great products and a great team. We are excited to provide the capital and support to transition this division to a strong and independent company further enabling it to continue developing and delivering market leading technologies to its customers," says Ryan Wald, managing director of The Gores Group.
Headquartered in Los Angeles, The Gores Group, LLC is a global investment firm with approximately $3.3 billion in assets under management. The Gores Group portfolio ranges from textiles to technology, including Siemens Enterprise Communications, Equinox payment terminals, ELO Touch Solutions and others.
Global Display Market worth $164.24 Billion by 2017
According to a new market research report, Global Display Market (2012 – 2017) published by MarketsandMarkets, the total global display market is expected to reach $164.24 billion by 2017, at a CAGR of 3.1 percent from 2012 to 2017.
The global display market encompasses many technologies: E-ink, OLED, TFT-LCD, LED-LCD, LED, DLP, LCoS, and Plasma.
OLED display, for example, also has a huge market share in smartphone and related applications and is projected to grow at a CAGR of 31.2 percent with revenue worth $5.10 billion in 2017.
The major technologies that will contribute more to the global display market are OLED, E-ink, DLP, LCoS—together expected to grow from 2012 to 2017 at a CAGR greater than 30 percent while TFT-LCD and LED technologies will grow less than 20 percent.
The types of display include conventional display, flexible display, transparent display, and 3D display. Among these, flexible display type is projected to increase its market share in next 5 years. While transparent display will not see any growth until 2013 because of it being in development stage, it will catch up in late 2014-15, growing at a CAGR of 91.1 percent (increasing demand only after it is commercially successful). 3D display has made its point and will continue to fulfill display needs in vertical markets such as healthcare application and will grow at a CAGR of 26.1 percent from 2012-2017.
From 2012 to 2017, consumer application will contribute to the global display application market with a share of 62.71 percent in 2017 from 64.27 percent in 2012, a decline of 1.58 percent.
No. America is the leading region in the overall display market– followed by Europe and APAC. In ROW, Middle East and Africa are the largest contributors.
Philips Fined By European Commission For Alleged Violation of Competition Rules
Royal Philips Electronics announced this week that it received a fine of EUR 313 million from the European Commission following an investigation into alleged violation of competition rules in the Cathode-Ray Tubes (CRT) industry. The fine is payable within three months. In addition, the European Commission has ordered Philips and LG Electronics to be jointly and severally liable to pay a fine of EUR 392 million for an alleged violation of competition rules by LG.Philips Displays (‘LPD’), a 50/50 joint venture.
Philips divested its CRT activities by transferring these activities to LPD in 2001, a joint venture with LG Electronics. LPD operated as an independent company and was not consolidated in Philips accounts. In 2006, LPD went bankrupt. The CRT investigation by the European Commission has been previously disclosed in Philips’ Annual Reports.
“We regret any association with this type of behavior," said Philips Chief Executive Officer Frans van Houten. "Our ethical standards as set out in our General Business Principles are very clear and must be strictly adhered to. We believe that the fine which relates to a business that has been divested in 2001 is disproportionate and unjustified. At the same time, I want to reassure our stakeholders that the fine will not deflect our focus to make Philips the leading technology company in Health and Well-being. We will continue on our Accelerate! performance improvement roadmap and reiterate our 2013 financial targets.”
Philips says it will appeal the decision by the European Commission.
NEC Display just launched the new UM Series of ultra-short throw LCD projectors, starting with two 3,300-lumen units: the UM330X and UM330W. Both offer interactivity options via integration with eBeam.
A complete interactive projector solution can be created using the optional NP02Wi eBeam interactive system (http://www.necdisplay.com/p/NP02Wi), which connects between the USB port on the eBeam module at the front of the projector and computer, and uses IR to determine the wireless pen’s position within the displayed image. This technology gives users the ability to control their computers and annotate accurately at the whiteboard. With the projectors' ability to be mounted to the walls directly above the screens on which they project, the UM330X and UM330W help eliminate shadows and glare typically found with standard projection systems.
The UM330X is an XGA (1024×768) projector and the UM330W is a WXGA (1280×800) resolution projector. Both projectors use 0.36:1 lenses; offer Eco-modes; can take content through a wired or wireless network; and have two HDMI ports, a VGA port and a USB content port.
The UM330X and UM330W projectors, as well as the UM330X-WK1 and UM330W-WK1 bundles, will be available in January 2013 at a minimum advertised price of $1,099, $1,299, $1,318 and $1,518, respectively.
InFocus' new IN3120 series includes a new XGA model (IN3124), a WXGA model (IN3126) and a 1080p model (IN3128HD). All three projectors offer VGA ports, an HDMI port and a content-based USB port for projection directly from a flash drive. They have a specified brightness of over 4,000 lumens and offer 3D capabilities. Presentations can be accessed from anywhere via LAN or WAN, while network connectivity also allows the projectors to be easily integrated into a range of IT environments and room-control systems for simple maintenance and remote management.
The IN3124, IN3126 and IN3128HD projectors are available now with list prices of $1,225, $1,499 and $1,699, respectively. All specs are here: http://www.infocus.com/projectors
BenQ Introduces New Green Projector for Small to Medium Spaces
BenQ America Corp. this month introduced the MX520 digital projector, an affordable and GreenAV projector for small to medium spaces. The XGA MX520 offers 3,000 ANSI lumen brightness, a specified contrast ratio of 13,000:1 and 3D format support.
The MX520 also offers GreenAV features, including BenQ's SmartEco technology, which the company says allows the lamp life to be extended up to 6,500 hours (twice as long as the previous generation) and reduces power consumption by up to 70 percent. Other energy-efficient functions include Eco Blank, No Source Detected and Standby modes that dim or blank out the screen whenever projection isn't required. The MX520 also features a faster cooling time and if the projector is accidentally switched off, an instant restart function provides a 90-second period for immediately turning the device back on.
It also has a Signal Power On feature that brings the projector to life automatically when an input signal is detected. The MX520 is shipping immediately with a list price of $699.
VFI Announces Purpose-Built Collaboration Table That Works for Most ProAV Meeting Room Installs Too
Video Furniture International (VFI) is introducing the T-526 table, designed as either a free standing table or for placement against a wall, which is purpose-built for collaboration and VTC applications. It comes with monitor mounts for single or dual screen (side-by-side) and an island for which VFI will provide custom cut-outs to fit custom AV gear (integrator specified). The table itself will seat two to six people. It's not only designed to accommodate video conference applications, but is also aimed as a meeting room table that can integrate ProAV gear. The hollow base is accessible by removable panels, for ease of wiring, and eliminates the need for any core drilling or in-wall wiring.
TrueConf Develops Desktop VTC System Compatible with MAC OS, Windows, Android and iOS
Russian-based soft-codec VTC manufacturer TrueConf has had a desktop VTC system application that was capable of connecting Windows and Android users together for a while. Now it's MAC OS and iOS capable too.
The TrueConf video conferencing solution for OS X is designed for OS X 10.7 and its older versions. It provides video conferencing calls for the corporate video network TrueConf Server, as well as the cloud video conferencing service TrueConf Online.
Boxlight Debuts Second Gen Interactive Projector Add-On
Boxlight's second generation of OutWrite products includes the OutWrite2-.5 and the OutWrite2-1.4. The OutWrite2 series are add-on devices that transform ordinary non-interactive projectors into interactive projectors. The device attaches easily to standard-throw and short-throw projectors. With easy installation and a simple four point calibration, integrators can now turn any flat surface into an interactive surface. The OutWrite2-.5 features a throw ratio of .5:1 and the OutWrite2-1.4 a throw ratio of 1.4:1.
The OutWrite2 series uses embedded HID technology and features built-in driver storage allowing interactivity in seconds. It ships with an IR wand and pen, LightPen3 annotation software and a USB cable, in addition to the ceiling mount adapter. At 60 frames per second and an internal 5-megapixel camera, it makes the OutWrite2 one of the most accurate interactive products on the market. With no delay, accuracy within 3 pixels and processing done internally, Boxlight says the OutWrite2 is the perfect companion to any curriculum, learning or annotation software.
With optional free LightPen3 dual-user annotation software, the OutWrite2 is now capable of multi-pen and provides split-screen simultaneous multi-user functionality. With the multi-touch package downloaded from Microsoft, you now have all the “multi-touch” functionality included within Windows 7 and 8.
The OutWrite2 was developed for users who want interactivity, but have existing projectors, tight budgets or specific projector requirements. The module can be mounted directly onto existing installed projectors (with the included swivel mount) or can be set on a table for portable applications.
MultiTouch Adds Hybrid Tracking, Claims to Solve Issues With External Light
MultiTouch has announced its new Hybrid Tracking technology, which is integrated with the company's MultiTaction interactive displays with optical multi-touch technology that's immune to external lighting conditions. The Hybrid Tracking system works by capturing the shadows from external infrared light and combining that information with the reflections that are recognized by the infrared sensors through the LCD display. Rather than blocking the infrared light emitted by external sources, the display seizes the light and completely eliminates any interference caused by ambient light. This makes the MultiTaction cells with Hybrid Tracking ideal for clients in the market for multi-user touch displays where external light sources may have an effect on the performance of touch displays.
“The ability of our displays to understand and adapt to its environment reinforces the various ways that MultiTouch is addressing the growing industry,” says Tommi Ilmonen, CTO of MultiTouch. “With Hybrid Tracking, public installations can offer and achieve the same performance and interaction as installations that are in environments with controlled light sources. We strive to be the leader in touch technology and the Hybrid Tracking supports our mission to produce the most technologically advanced displays in the industry.”
CTO Tommi Ilmonen explains how the technology works in this video:
Lectrosonics Debuts New Dual-Channel, Camera Slot-Mount Mic Receivers
Lectrosonics' new SRB and SRB5P (domestic) and SRB/E01 and SRB5P/E01 (export) two-channel slot-mount Digital Hybrid Wireless diversity receivers have two independent channels and are designed to fit into the standard video camera slots found on slot-equipped professional cameras, such as those from Panasonic and Ikegami (SRB and SRB/E01) and Sony (SRB5P and SR5P/E01), by using the appropriate optional mounting kits. The two audio channels can feed separate inputs or can be mixed internally to feed a single input.
The SRB family of receivers includes a newly-designed receiver front end with a more robust RF amplifier stage and tighter IF (intermediate frequency) filtering. Lectrosonics says the results are significant performance enhancements over previous designs including better immunity to adjacent channel interference and increased sensitivity. In addition, a talkback feature is also included in the new receivers to work in conjunction with the HH handheld microphone transmitter. With the talkback feature engaged, one audio output is used for the standard signal feed. When the talkback button is pressed on the HH transmitter, the audio is routed to the second receiver output, which thus can be sent to an IFB (interruptible fold-back) system, a com desk, or anywhere else the user requires.
Two diversity modes are offered in the SRB family. SmartDiversity reception is employed by combining antenna phase for each independent receiver channel. Alternately, the two channels can be used together as a single receiver in “True Diversity” Ratio mode for enhanced performance in some environments. Graphic spectrum scanning provides quick and easy location of clear operating frequencies for interference-free operation.
The two independent Digital Hybrid Wireless receivers inside the SRB Series units offer 256 frequencies each in a wide variety of available frequency blocks, and operate with any of the Lectrosonics’ 400 Series transmitters without a compandor in the audio path. In addition, compatibility modes also facilitate operation with Lectrosonics’ 100 Series, 200 Series and IFB analog systems, along with analog transmitters from two other manufacturers. Transmitter battery strength is monitored in the new receivers when using compatibility modes for 200 and 400 Series transmitters.
While mounted in a camera slot, the SRB family of receivers are splash resistant — thanks to sealed membrane switches and LCD, along with a special gasket covering the slot opening. Along with slot mounting, the receivers can also be mounted outside cameras using an optional kit, powered from external DC, and providing two locking mini-XLR analog audio outputs. Additionally, an optional battery sled kit is available, offering two balanced outputs along with the ability to dock a “M”- or “L”-style rechargeable battery pack for truly portable use. A variety of hardware mounting accessories are also available.
Video Furniture International (VFI) announced a new triple-rack credenza that has two bays with tinted glass doors to allow IR signals pass through. Dubbed the CR3200EX, the unit comes with three bays that are 12RU each, plus offer locks and a ventilation fan in each bay. Shipping fully assembled and available is several colors, it also bundles well with the company's VTC and collaboration tables.
Add a VFI monitor mount to the top of the unit and you can use the unit easily for a presentation in single- or dual-screen mode. This allows for a very modern clean look to a meeting room without the need to cut or drill the walls.
SnapAV is introducing a line of BINARY HDBaseT extenders that the company says can send HD video (up to 4K resolution), as well as audio, IR, power and RS232 control signals over Cat5e or Cat6 up to 230 feet. They say the extenders can even transmit HDMI video (including HDMI with 3D) with Deep Color (36 bit) and HDCP 2.0, as well as support Dolby True HD, Dolby Digital Plus, DTS-HD Master and LPCM audio formats.
In addition, SnapAV's extenders support the POC (Power Over Cable) option in HDBaseT so you can send power over the same Cat5e/6 cable that extends your video, audio and control signals, eliminating the need for a power supply next to the receiver.
Furman Now Shipping Contractor Series Power Management Solutions
Furman has started shipping its CN-3600S E (220V-240V, 16A capacity) SmartSequencer, it's first power management solution for the EMEA market and part of the company's ProAV Contractor Series. Integrated with BlueBOLT functionality with AC power distribution, protection, filtration and sequential system power on/off, the CN-3600S E also has Furman's SmartSequencing technology, which the company says allows both small and large systems to be powered on and off safely.
The 1-RU rackmount unit features eight rear-panel IEC C-13 outlets — in addition to one front-panel convenience outlet — in four adjustable delay-sequence banks. All outlets provide clean, safe power with Furman's SMP, EVS, and LiFT protection and filtration technologies.
Extron Intros Three Input HDMI and VGA Switcher With Both HDMI and Fiber Outputs
Extron's new FOX T USW 203 is a three-input switcher (VGA, component or HDMI) with an integrated fiber optic transmitter for long haul transmission of HDCP-compliant HDMI, RGBHV, or HD component video, plus stereo audio and RS232 control signals over fiber optic cabling (or over an HDMI output). The FOX T USW 203 switcher uses Extron's all-digital technology to transmit video images at resolutions up to 1920×1200, including HDTV 1080p/60 and analog AV input signals, which are converted to digital to ensure that a high quality signal is transmitted to the final destination. To streamline installation and system operation, the switcher includes integration-friendly features such as buffered HDMI output and VGA input loop-through, EDID Minder, Key Minder, audio embedding, auto-input switching, RS232 control and real-time system monitoring.
Projector company EIKI has entered the switcher market with its new ProSwitch 400S, aimed at the house of worship, broadcast, education and ProAV markets. The ProSwitch 400S has eight inputs (SDI, two video, s-video, HDMI, VGA, DVI and RGBS) and two outputs (one VGA and one DVI). It's LAN- or RS232-controllable and includes seamless switching with last-frame-hold or fade through black transitions (for scaling and switching live video and IMAG). It also supports PIP/POP/PAP with a video and computer image sources.
EIKI says the 1U rack-mountable ProSwitch 400S can scale sources up to 1080p and WUXGA (1920×1200) resolutions, uses the Reon HQV video processing chip and is based on Calibre's HQView platform. Calibre and EIKI are partners, with EIKI acting as the North American distributor for Calibre products.
Christie is introducing an extension to the Christie TVC Series of display wall processors with the new TVC-700, which is a PC-based, simple to install, purpose-built video will processor designed for 24/7 control room environments. It can also be used in rental applications for multi-image IMAG projection.
Using the PCIe bus architecture and state-of-the-art GPU technology, the TVC-700 provides superior graphics and processing power to support multiple applications, inputs and outputs. And, this powerhouse processor supports hardware accelerated 3D applications and ultra-high resolution outputs such as CAD/CAM modeling and data visualization.
Performance features include:
Enables multi-screen (up to 6) 3D applications
Ultra-high resolution outputs (DL-DVI to greater than 2560×1600 per screen)
GPUs with 256MB GDDR RAM per output
Support for single- and dual-link DVI inputs (up to 10 SL-DVI/RGB/Composite, or 5 DL-DVI inputs)
Support for large numbers of video inputs (40 total)
Enclosed in a half-rack-width enclosure, Extron newest product introduction is the DSC 301 HD an HDCP-compliant video scaler with three inputs — one for HMDI signals, one for VGA and component video signals and one for composite video. It's all scaled to any resolution up to 1920×1080 and sent out via an HDMI output. Featuring an advanced scaling engine with 30-bit processing and 1080i deinterlacing, the DSC 301 HD includes EDID Minder, automatic input switching and simplifies system connections by embedding audio from one of the three stereo inputs onto the HDMI output.
The DSC 301 HD offers several unique features,; for example, when processing HDMI signals with protected content, Key Minder authenticates and maintains continuous HDCP encryption between input sources and displays to ensure quick and reliable switching. When receiving an HDCP-encrypted HDMI input source signal, the DSC 301 HD provides immediate visual confirmation when protected content cannot be viewed on a display. Front panel controls, an intuitive on-screen display, plus USB and RS-232 connections provide flexible control and monitoring capability.
FSR’s New CORE Product Line Addresses Floor Space Challenge
FSR is debuting its new CORE family of products that's aimed at small classrooms, boardrooms and meeting rooms where floor space has reached a premium. The CORE stands for Cool Overhead Rack Enclosures. The lines consists of a ceiling box family of products that's installed in standard 2’x2’ or 2’x4’ drop ceiling tiles and provides from two half-rack to four full rack spaces for equipment mounting. Optionally, the Ceiling Box family can be equipped with a projector pole mount adapter so that the projector can mount directly to the ceiling box and cables can disappear through the pole.
The newest member of the CORE family is the Top Shelf wall mounted rack. Top Shelf mounts to a wall just below the ceiling in installations without a drop ceiling or where space above the drop ceiling is limited. The Top Shelf provides four rack units of mounting space; the plastic cover allows RF and Wi-Fi signals to pass unobstructed between the equipment and the room.
Extron's new HFX 100 HDMI Fiber Optic Extender is being promoted as an economical transmitter and receiver set for long distance transmission of HDMI video and embedded multi-channel audio signals over a single fiber optic cable. It extends HDCP-compliant HDMI signals over a multimode cable at lengths up to 300 meters (984 feet). The compact extender uses all-digital technology to deliver perfect pixel-for-pixel transmission of images up to 1920×1200, including HDTV 1080p/60.
The HFX 100 supports HDMI specification features, including data rates up to 6.25 Gbps, 12-bit Deep Color, HD lossless audio formats and CEC. Extron's HDMI cables are attached to the transmitter and receiver, allowing direct connection with source and destination devices. The HFX 100 transmitter and receiver are housed in compact 1U, one-eighth rack width enclosures.
Holophone introduced this month a line of single-channel stage and studio microphones. Designed for live, recording and broadcast applications, these new Holophone mics also have a customizable appearance.
The new Super C handheld supercardioid condenser is the first in a new line of customizable performance mics created by Holophone. Combining ruggedness and low handling noise with "ergonomic comfort," the Super C features the same proprietary capsule technology employed in Holophone's surround microphones, including the H2-PRO.
Holophone's new mics also deliver individuality, with a design that allows the user to customize the mic's appearance on the fly. Each microphone's casing, windscreen, and grille can be instantly changed to any of a wide range of custom colors.
The Super C includes a custom carrying case, microphone clip and other accessories. It will be available for $499 list price and you can get more details here: http://www.holophone.com/
ClearOne Releases New Wireless Microphone System for Installed Audio Products
ClearOne's new WS800 Digital Wireless Microphone System, part of the company's installed audio conferencing product line, uses radio-frequency digital wireless signal transmission technology with secure encryption. It's optimized to work with CONVERGE Pro and INTERACT Pro products.
The WS800 system includes four new models of wireless microphones/transmitters and a base-station receiver with either four or eight channels that connects to professional audio mixers. The WS800 system offers features such as:
Multiple RF bands (902 to 928 MHz, 710 to 740 MHz, 603 to 630 MHz) for any application
ClearOne's 24-bit digital signal processing for unmatched, crystal-clear audio
256-bit encryption (conforming to US Govt. AES specifications) for robust security
Ability to daisy-chain up to a 32-channel system to support large venues
Rechargeable and field-replaceable standard AA batteries for flexible power options
Docking station to provide convenient recharging and storage
NEC Introduces 32-Inch Digital Signage Display and Bundle
NEC Display Solutions announced today its next-generation 32-inch V322 commercial-grade LCD display. NEC has also launched the V322-AVT and V322-PC bundles with an integrated tuner and single board computer, respectively. This digital signage display suits a variety of environments, including retail stores, restaurants, training facilities and corporate boardrooms.
The V322 offers a native resolution of 1366×768, a specified 3,000:1 contrast ratio and a maximum brightness of 450 cd/m². It features an Open Pluggable Specification (OPS) compliant expansion slot, digital loop-through capability and integrated 8-watt speakers. Connectivity options include HDMI, DisplayPort and DVI-D, as well as RS232C, LAN, IR and DDC/CI for control. The V322 is comprised of commercial-grade components, including a public display-grade panel to protect against permanent image retention. Finally, it has a built-in ATSC tuner for HD broadcast capabilities (V322-AVT only).
The V322, V322-AVT and V322-PC will be available this month and have minimum advertised prices of $619, $719 and $1,479, respectively.
European Debut for Mitsubishi Electric’s 70” LCD Monitor
Mitsubishi Electric’s MDT701S will make its European debut at ISE 2013.
The flagship 70” edge-lit LED display is the largest professional LCD monitor ever offered by Mitsubishi, suited for public display or corporate settings.
Its LED illumination means reduced power consumption and slimmer profile, while delivering a 5000:1 contrast ratio and increased color gamut. Lifespan is also increased and LEDs create less environmental impact at end of life.
Versatility is a key feature of the MDT701S: the maker cites "quick and easy deployment in any application." An Open Pluggable Standard (OPS) slot allows it to be used with a large number of vendor add-ins, such as single-board PC’s, 3G and SDI cards (which make it well-suited to digital signage networks).
The MDT701S also features a built-in plug 'n' play USB hub that allows up to five USB hubs to be cascaded to a maximum of 16 USB inputs. MDT701S also supports LAN connections and is compatible withAMX Device Discovery and Crestron Roomview enabling it to be monitored, managed and controlled across the network or from an Apple iPhone, iPad or Android devices via Crestron’s Fusion RV software.
The Full HD, narrow bezel MDT701S is equipped with dual light sensors, which allows a more accurate auto-brightness adjustment and optimized power consumption. Sophisticated power scheduling features also help to minimize energy usage and the monitor can be safely operated in both landscape and portrait formats. The internal speakers throw downwards rather than to the rear, meaning less unwanted vibration.
The Mitsubishi Electric stand at ISE 2013 will feature its full range of LCD displays, plus its latest projection, rear projection, digital signage and control room solutions.
Volfoni Claims to Solve the "Too Dark" Complaint for 3D Movies
Audiences sometimes complain that 3D movies are “too dark.” Now French company Volfoni has introduced a SmartCrystal Cinema polarization modulator that claims 18 percent light efficiency (more light output) when used with Volfoni's passive 3D glasses. And, the company also says it's greener because the projector will use less lamp power (20 percent to 30 percent less light) to accomplish it. It's also simple to integrate because an integrator just needs to slide the modulator in front of the lens of a 3D projector — although you have to use the company's branded passive 3D glasses.
The system works with any with any DCI-compliant DLP projector. It works with projector lamps up to 7kW, and silver screens up to 60 feet wide.
How does it work? Volfoni has added an anti-reflective layer on the glass panel, reducing the loss of light by reflection on the different surfaces of the panel. The company claims this reduces “ghosting” in the world of 3D because its “Surface Switching” technology, combined with a specially optimized panel coating, allows for a "practically" cross-talk free image, according to Volfoni's press release.
Having had a successful series of roadshows over the last four years that brought AV manufacturers to the major cities in India, the full-fledged InfoComm India Exhibition and Summit has finally been launched.
Scheduled to take place from Sept. 17-19, 2013 at the Bombay Exhibition Centre in Mumbai, InfoComm India 2013 will bring India's ProAV industry channel as well as institutional end-users from a wide cross spectrum of vertical markets together in one place.
India is widely acknowledged as having one of the fastest growing economies in the world and is expected to emerge as the world’s second largest economy by year 2050. According to the 2012 InfoComm Market Definition and Strategy Study, the Indian Pro AV market is the fastest growing in Asia and is expected to grow at over 20 percent a year.
Designed to help end users understand how ProAV technologies can benefit their businesses, InfoComm India will host a series of activities that includes an exclusive show preview for VIPs and specially invited guests with food and drinks on Sept. 17, a Hosted Buyers Program, a free-to-attend Infocomm India Summit and many others.
More than 50 percent of the space has already been sold. Join key industry players like AMX, Barco, Christie, Da-Lite, Delta, Extron, Harman, Jupiter Systems, Kramer, projectiondesign and many more.
DSE Adds Education Track for Network Owners and Systems Integrators
Digital Signage Expo (DSE) announced this week it will present an all-new comprehensive four-part Network Design, Management & Operations Seminar Program designed specifically to prepare those who are planning to design, manage and operate or are now managing and operating Place-Based or Out-of-Home networks.
The program, to be presented in Las Vegas Feb. 27-28, 2013, is part of DSE’s eight-track Educational Conference and is designed specifically for network operators of both revenue- and non-revenue generating systems, digital signage (DS) end-users and systems integrators and installers who participate in or are responsible for design, management and operations. This educational track is intended to provide insights into the planning and initial deployment stages, as well as identify the team skill sets necessary to support a successful installation. Topics to be covered include:
Planning for Success: The Value of Building a Digital Signage Team
The Whole Nine Yards of Digital Signage Success: From Pilot to Operational Management
Using Data for Front-end and Back-end Network Management
Essentials for Digital Signage and Emergency Management System Integration
Registration for the DOOH Networks Seminar Program, or any of DSE 2013 educational conference seminars is now open at http://www.digitalsignageexpo.net
InfoComm Dedicates New Education Center, Names It for Randy Lemke
InfoComm International has announced the new Randal A. Lemke Center for Professional Development at InfoComm International headquarters in Fairfax, Va.
Built to incorporate InfoComm’s standards and designed as a STEP-rated facility, this is the ultimate AV classroom, perfect for collaboration.
The Randal A. Lemke, Ph.D. Center for Professional Development represents the lasting legacy of InfoComm International’s long-time executive director and CEO, who is retiring after 16 years of service. Randy devoted much of his career to creating and improving AV training, certification and standards programs in a quest to improve the standing and performance of the AV industry.
Sponsors that donated equipment include Crestron, Planar, AMX, Polycom, Cisco, Digital Projection, Draper, Listen Technologies, Middle Atlantic, Servoreeler Systems, Shure and SurgeX.
World Famous Cyber-Illusionist to Keynote ISE in Amsterdam
Globally renowned cyber-illusionist Marco Tempest will present the Keynote Address on the eve of ISE 2013.
From standing ovations at TED Global to top level corporate gigs at Cisco, Symantec, Qualcomm and others, his talent has been recognized with a number of prestigious international awards including the prestigious New York World Cup of Magic.
Marco Tempest has been featured in his own theatrical shows and as part of numerous TV specials enjoying well in excess of 500 million cumulative viewings across the world. Marco’s award winning television series The Virtual Magician is currently airing in 48+ countries.
Titled Inventing The Impossible, Tempest’s presentation at ISE 2013 will address the use of illusion as a creative tool and how it can be used to bring seemingly impossible scenarios to life. Using examples of the magical illusion work Tempest has designed in collaboration with engineers, animators and programmers, the Keynote will focus on the envisaging of future technologies, the value of open-source projects and how illusion can provide an inviting gateway to social-media interactivity.
“Marco Tempest has a worldwide reputation as an inspirational speaker whose use of computer-based imagery, augmented reality and other visual technologies is as original as it is breathtaking,” said Mike Blackman, managing director, Integrated Systems Events.
“Whether they are combining multiple projected images to create a single animated canvas, building interactive kiosks for retail spaces or visitor attractions, designing multi-channel sound systems or simply providing multimedia content for installed or live applications, ISE attendees are in the business of adding value by persuading people to suspend their disbelief.
“Marco Tempest’s unique take on the use of illusion as a creative tool fits perfectly with ISE’s business and technology landscape, while his commitment to collaboration, creativity and enterprise could hardly be more topical.”
Tempest, a Swiss-citizen based in New York, adds, “My interest in computer-generated imagery is what led me to incorporate video and digital technology into my work as a magician, and develop a new form of contemporary illusion. The expansion of the internet and social media has provided more opportunities for digital illusions and interacting with audiences, and in Amsterdam I hope to show that using these influences in smart, creative and compelling ways can indeed allow us to ‘Invent The Impossible.’”
Tempest’s Keynote Address will begin at 6:00 p.m. on Mon., January 28, 2013, and will be located in the Forum of ISE’s Amsterdam RAI show venue.
The Keynote will be followed at 7:00 p.m. by ISE’s 10th Birthday Party, to be held in the adjacent Forum Lounge. Admission to both events is free of charge to all ISE attendees.
Mike Blackman says, “We are delighted that Marco is coming to Amsterdam to present ‘Inventing The Impossible’ on the eve of ISE 2013, and look forward to a presentation that will amuse, entertain and inspire Europe’s professional AV community in ways they could not have imagined.”
NSCA to Hold 15th Annual Business & Leadership Conference in Phoenix
NSCA is holding its 15th annual Business & Leadership Conference (BLC) Feb. 21 – 23, 2013 in Phoenix. The conference is targeted to commercial AV executives, managers and business owners. Conference sessions cover a broad range of topics from the future of the economy and contracts, to service revenue models and making intelligent buying decisions. Featured keynote speaker, Peter Sheahan of ChangeLabs, will present two sessions during this year’s BLC:
Fl!p — Turning Challenge into Opportunity and Change into Competitive Advantage: Sheahan’s expertise provides attendees with information to improve profit margins and taking the appropriate risks to drive change in your business.
Moving the Market — Accelerate Your Impact by Influencing How and Why Buyers Make Decisions: Capitalize on the science of how people think in order to increase sales and avoid price competition while leveraging your social identity.
Transforming your business for the future involves a variety of strategic decisions including:
Understanding the impact of the 2013 Economic Outlook from returning speaker Dr. Lee McPheters.
Reduce the risks associated with contract requirements by comprehending the most Outrageous Contract Requirements seen in the industry.
Think outside the box and Wake Up, Ignite Your Possibility by turning your greatest challenges into outstanding growth.
Predict Business Life Cycles to identify growth and development within your own organization.
Create Exceptional Customer Experiences through unique products and services only you and your employees can provide.
The event will be held at the Arizona Grand Resort & Spa in Phoenix, Ariz. Attendees can save $100 off the regular price if they register before Jan. 4, 2013. For more information or to register, visit http://www.nsca.org/blc
Pakedge Hires Michelle Coleman as International Sales Manager
Pakedge Device & Software announced this month that it has appointed Michelle Coleman as its international sales manager. Previously, Coleman was the distribution sales manager, EMEA for Kaleidescape.
To read the complete press release online, click here.
Screen Innovations Hires Katye Bennette as Director of Marketing and PR
Screen Innovations (SI) announced this month the appointment of Katye (McGregor) Bennett as its director of PR and marketing. The appointment is part of the company’s aggressive growth strategy in both the residential and commercial markets, and is in addition to the recent appointment of industry veteran Howard Borsa as director of commercial accounts and several new products to its lineup.
To read the complete press release online, click here.
Paul Beckermann Receives 2012 Outstanding High School AV/Media Coordinator Award
Alpha Video is pleased to announce that Paul Beckermann, Media and Digital Learning Specialist at Dassel-Cokato High School, has received the 2012 Outstanding Minnesota High School AV/Media Coordinator Award.
To read the complete press release online, click here.
Eleven Distributors Form Catalyst AV Nationwide Distribution Network
Catalyst AV, a new nationwide distribution network comprised of 11 independent distributors that serve the residential and professional AV channels in the U.S., has announced its formation.
Operating from 16 locations across the US, the Catalyst AV network serves more than 10,000 professional integration companies. According to board member Mike Hench the group is committed to maintaining sustained inventory levels to assure next-day (and where applicable same-day) delivery in the continental U.S.
To read the complete press release online, click here.
Haivision Awarded ISO 9001:2008 and ISO 13485:2003 Certifications
Haivision, a producer of video networking and IP video distribution solutions, announced this month that the company has achieved International Organization for Standardization (ISO) 9001:2008 and ISO 13485:2003 certification for the management system governing the design, development, manufacturing, support and lifecycle of its products.
Haivision's ISO 9001:2008 achievement applies to a quality management system supporting the design, development, production, installation and servicing of the company's encoding, recording, playback, network, management, display and distribution products, and related services, as well as to the systems for continually improving those processes. In addition, the company has achieved ISO 13485:2003 certification, a similar standard specifically required to be a supplier to the medical industry.
To read the complete press release online, click here.
Premier Mounts announced this month that Kathy Bent, previously controller, is now Premier Mounts' chief financial officer. Bent will be responsible for planning, implementing, managing, and controlling all financial-related activities of the company. Bent has been with Premier Mounts for the past eight years. In her first position as senior financial analyst, Bent provided all feedback regarding the financial health of the company to Premier's executive management.
To read the complete press release online, click here.
USAV Endorses NSCA Business & Leadership Conference
The National Systems Contractors Association (NSCA) and USAV have announced an endorsement involving NSCA’s Business & Leadership Conference and NSCA Membership. The partnership provides USAV members with discounted rates to attend the Business & Leadership Conference, in addition to discounted NSCA member dues. USAV will also hear from NSCA experts on business strategies, industry outlooks, policies and regulations affecting the systems integration industry at various events throughout the year.
To read the complete press release online, click here.
For all you REGULAR readers of rAVe ProAV Edition out there, hopefully you enjoyed another opinion-packed issue!
For those of you NEW to rAVe, you just read how we are — we are 100 percent opinionated. We not only report the news and new product stories of the ProAV industry, but we stuff the articles full of our opinions. That may include (but is not limited to) whether or not the product is even worth looking at, challenging the manufacturers on their specifications, calling a marketing-spec bluff and suggesting ways integrators market their products better. But, one thing is for sure, we are NOT a trade publication that gets paid for running editorial or product stories. Traditional trade publications get paid to run product stories — that's why you see what you see in most of the pubs out there. We are different: we run what we want to run and NO ONE is going to pay us to write anything good (or bad).
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A little about me: I graduated from Journalism School at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill (where I am adjunct faculty). I've been in the AV-industry since 1987 where I started with Extron and eventually moved to AMX. So, I guess I am an industry veteran (although I don't think I am that old). I have been an opinionated columnist for a number of industry publications and in the late 1990s I started the widely read KNews eNewsletter (the first in the AV market) and also created the model for and was co-founder of AV Avenue, which is now known as InfoComm IQ. rAVe [Publications] has been around since 2003, when we launched our original newsletter, rAVe ProAV Edition.
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