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Volume 11, Issue 9 — May 9, 2013
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InfoComm: InfoComm Teams With SMPTE, AES and ASA on Audio’s Holy Grail: Sound Standards for All Enclosed Spaces
By Dan Daley
Special to InfoComm International This column was reprinted with permission from InfoComm and originally appeared here.
Until the 1980s, cinemas were an acoustical hodge-podge, with dimensions of varying sizes and speakers arrayed in ways that often blasted sound at those in front and challenged those in the rear to hear. Then, in 1977, came Star Wars, George Lucas' paean to the sci-fi serials of the 1930s and 1940s. Its audio was anything but FDR-radio-address quality.
After putting that much effort into the sound of the first two Star Wars films, Lucas realized he had to raise the playback experience substantially in the cinema environment itself. Thus was born THX, named for its prime developer, Tomlinson Holman, Lucasfilm's resident audio wizard. The "X" stood for crossover, a way of segmenting audio frequency bands into appropriate banks of speakers and amplifiers, such as subwoofers, part of the THX standard that would revolutionize how we experienced film sound.
THX, introduced in 1983 for Return of the Jedi, was seminal: As theaters became better environments in which to listen to film sound, it prompted Hollywood to put more effort into movie soundtracks. Moreover, the concept of an improved listening space also migrated to other environments, creating an entire new industry around home theaters. But among the biggest collateral beneficiaries were spaces intended for live events. Concerts, theatrical productions, and performing arts centers — even churches and shopping malls — benefitted from enhanced awareness of issues such as acoustics, matching between speakers and amplifiers, and other specifications outlined by THX.
And that's largely where things have stood ever since. In the 30 years since THX's standards changed cinema sound, those protocols, which addressed issues such as standing waves created by parallel theater walls and the addition of a center channel for dialog, have remained largely static, even as the technology around them, from ray-tracing measurement technology for highly steerable line array speaker systems, has reached new levels of sophistication and capability. A consortium of technology organizations, led by the Society of Motion Picture and Television Engineers (SMPTE) and supported by InfoComm International, the Audio Engineering Society (AES) and the Acoustical Society of America (ASA), has set out to update the standards we use to create optimal listening environments.
Strengthening the B-Chain
In the beginning, SMPTE's Theater B-Chain Study Group, formed in 2010, focused on cinema environments and centered its work on what's known as the B-chain: the type and positioning of elements such as speakers, amplifiers and processors that comprise the part of a cinema sound system that audiences experience. (The A-Chain is made up of components such as the cinema server, projector, audio router and other similar systems.) The SMPTE study group set out to see how technologies, techniques and products developed over the last three decades could better measure and perform across the B chain to create a better-sounding environment.
The study group's findings were then handed over to a standards group, a technology team dubbed TC-25CSS (Technology Committee 25, Cinema Sound Systems), announced on March 4, 2013 to "update SMPTE standards and recommended practices to address opportunities created by the many technical advances since standards last were created, as well as to improve the quality and consistency of cinema sound," according to a SMPTE statement. The committee, led by Brian Vessa, executive director of digital audio mastering at Sony Pictures Entertainment, has 130 members, representing more than 90 companies and academic institutions from 14 countries.
TC-25CSS, which is the first such committee dedicated solely to cinema sound, aims to standardize techniques and tools for optimizing sound systems and cinema acoustics. Current activities include development of a recommended practice for measurement and calibration of B-chain sound systems using modern standards and measurement technology; creation of a standard pink-noise test signal that works for a digital environment; a final report on data and findings from the Theater B-Chain Study Group; and work by two new study groups examining immersive audio systems and new electroacoustic measurement methods and target curves.
It's a complex undertaking (the cinema sound lexicon now includes immersive formats such as Auro-3D, Dolby's ATMOS, IOSONO and Sonic Tier), but one that promises to extend its benefits well beyond movie houses.
Enter InfoComm
Joe Bocchiaro, CTS-D, CTS-I, InfoComm's Vice President of Standards and Industry Innovations, says that while cinemas and live-performance spaces tended to move along separate development tracks in recent decades, a study that InfoComm conducted three years ago underscored how the cinema audio environment diverged from evolutions in live sound and digital distribution. It also illuminated the shared interests between SMPTE and InfoComm constituencies today. InfoComm focused on the experience of simulcast concerts and other events held in movie theaters. Bocchiaro cited one Foo Fighters simulcast concert, in particular, that drew complaints based on poor sound quality in the cinemas. This laid the foundation for the collaboration now in place.
"Everyone has a stake in this," Bocchiaro says. The challenges include the fact that despite advances in precision measurement ability, audio analysis remains heavily weighted toward subjective interpretation, which can be addressed by more rigorous and widely accepted measurement standards and by the refinement (or elimination) of putative nostrums of questionable validity. Most notable of these is the X Curve, a high-frequency roll-off beginning at 2 kHz at -3 dB/octave, then -6 dB/octave from 10 kHz. It was based on pink-noise measurements of typical cinemas taken three decades ago. Critics contend that for contemporary cinemas, the X Curve is irrelevant, or worse, that its application can actually make cinema spaces sound less intelligible. In fact, a redefinition of pink noise for the digital era is part of what SMPTE is seeking to accomplish with the TC-25CSS initiative.
Since 2011, InfoComm has been working on a suite of standards addressing four distinct areas of sonic concern in enclosed spaces: spectral balance, undesirable sound, reproduced speech and music quality, and sound pressure level optimization in audiovisual systems. Combined with InfoComm's 2009 ANSI standard, Audio Coverage Uniformity in Enclosed Listener Areas [PDF], the suite [PDF] is meant to offer a comprehensive characterization of a sound system. Compliance with the parameters defined in all the standards would, for the first time, make it possible — in a measureable, reproducible way — to ensure that a sound system provides audio of high quality, intelligibility and fidelity.
InfoComm's goals happened to intersect nicely with those of SMPTE. Bocchiaro says InfoComm suggested that the organizations harmonize their efforts to create a set of standards that apply to a wide range of enclosed performance spaces, from cinemas to performing arts centers.
"With representatives from all of these organizations working together, we have a technical dream team that's not duplicating each other's efforts," he says.
While SMPTE members continue to focus on the cinema B-chain, and InfoComm pursues its audio standards suite, the two other professional organizations have carved out their own niches. AES has staked out two areas, both focused on measurement. The AES-X218 project will review the parameters that affect the audience experience in rooms, as well as the objective measurement methods necessary to quantify them. This effort should provide a basis for more detailed standardization of measurement and calibration protocols for controllable parameters. AES-X219 will indentify a standard method of measuring frequency and impulse response for sound systems in auditoriums.
The ASA is looking at how to apply findings from its own research and that of the other groups to create a set of standards for education environments, such as classrooms and lecture halls, to improve the intelligibility of life-safety systems, like those required by NFPA 72.
There's still a long way to go, both in terms of time and depth, for all of these pieces to come together. The TC-25CSS group was formed in March, and it faces many months of work before clear standards emerge. "We're at the beginning of a huge adventure," as Bocchiaro puts it. But the benefits for sound in all kinds of enclosed spaces will make the journey worthwhile.
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China’s Affordable UHD TV On the Way
By Steve Sechrist
DisplayDaily Affordable UHD TV are words not commonly found together as the new cutting-edge ultra high definition TV technology is hardly available from manufacturers, while broadcasters and other content providers are still making efforts to perfect the 4K content capture and workflow needed to deliver a 3840×2160 pixel image refreshing at 120Hz (times per second) on the screen. But at a NYC event in mid April, Chinese TV set maker Seiki announced a jaw dropping price of $,1500 MSRP for its now-affordable UHD TV (SE50UY04) that comes in a 50-inch 4K version to be sold through online retailers (Amazon, TigerDirect, ShopNBC plus QVC.) And just in case rival TV makers thought this was a one-trick-pony, the company said it will offer a 65-inch set in Q3 and later this year in Q4 a 39-inch set will be available (presumably) just in time for the holidays and the introduction of the (UHD version) Sony’s Playstation 4.
Seiki said its panels are sourced from Chimei (CMI) and they are using a 120 Hz LED edge-lit panel. The company is positioning itself as a value leader in the U.S. market and using the “future proof” card to help jump start sales for its brand that leverages the hot attention getting moniker for flat-panels today “UHD” and “The Industry’s Best Warranty” that backs its sets up with a full year replacement guarantee.
The U.S. group for Seiki is based in Diamond Bar, Calif. and product manager Frank Kendzora admits that UHD is still at the cutting-edge, but said the company will position the product so, "consumers can future-proof their next TV purchase with next-generation 4K TV technology, [with] current high-definition video content, and be ready to experience Ultra HD when it becomes mainstream in the near future.”
50-inch UHD Display Specs (SE50UY04)
- Size: 50-inch diagonal screen
- Panel Resolution: 3840 x 2160
- Maximum color: 1.07 Billion
- Aspect Ratio: 16:9
- Refresh Rate: 120Hz
- Component & HDMI Support: 480I, 576I, 480P, 576P, 720P, 1080I, 1080P, 4k2k 30Hz (only HDMI)
- VGA: 640×480, 800×600, 1024×768, 1360×768, 1920×1080
- OSD Language: English, French, Spanish
- Analog & Digital TV Tuner: One
- Component Video Input: One
- Component Video (Y, Cb, Cr/Y, Pb, Pr): One
- VGA Input (15 pin, D-Sub): One
- RJ45: One
- HDMI Input: Three
- USB Input: One (For service use only)
On the spec, it’s important to note that this bare-bones (non-SmartTV) is lacking what has become table stakes for most brands (things like Wi-Fi, Netflix, Hulu or video camera for Skype). Perhaps even more important, there is no color management control including no gamma, or gray scale (for color temperature calibration) adjustments.
Top-tier brands are pushing new UHD TVs to launch earlier rather than later, as a speed-up in deployment plans will help boost sagging average selling prices (ASPs) in the somewhat depressed TV category. First offerings from Sony (55-inch UHD) are selling in the $5K range. At the large display end, Samsung announced its 85-inch UHD set for a whopping $40K but granted, these are top-of-the line sets delivering everything (including brand cache) that Seiki is not.
But suffice it to say a new kid on the block, China TV maker Seiki is looking to play spoiler for the TV set makers with its announcement of an affordable UHD TV that breaks the $1,500 price barrier in the cutting-edge space with rivals charging 3x and 4x that price. And as Vizio and other low price leaders in their space have shown before, there is traction at the low end if you can deliver and maintain customer satisfaction going forward.
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An Industry Special Report & InfoComm 13 Preview
By David Danto
Director of Emerging Technology, IMCCA As I write this article, there are just a few weeks to go before the 2013 InfoComm conference and exposition in Orlando. The conference is a great opportunity to become educated, network with industry peers and see the latest in AV, collaboration and multimedia technology. This year, however, there will be a unique opportunity to see a number of disruptive changes in the world of videoconferencing. These changes in technology and market forces are so significant that they will permanently transform how organizations approach conferencing and collaboration going forward. For those of you able to join us in Orlando, here are some of the things to be on the look-out for.
Ding-Dong, The DSPs Are Dead
The video “Bridge” or “MCU” (Multipoint Control Unit) has been an essential part of any mature videoconferencing ecosystem since the mid 1990s. These products connect multiple video calls together so that many locations can participate in one call. Most of the better bridges on the market up until this point have used Digital Signal Processing chips to power the transcode process and manage the various signals passing through the system. The more signals (ports) you wanted to handle, the more DSPs you needed. The DSPs are attached to circuit boards that are mounted in metal boxes that are mounted in metal equipment racks — “chunks of iron” as they’re sometimes called in the industry. When you had 10 or 50 or even 500 video systems in your ecosystem your multiple chunks of iron could process all your multiparty calls without difficulty. However, if you want to handle multipoint calls in organizations that have thousands of user endpoints, the chunks of iron become massive, and expensive. The solution could not scale to very large numbers in a cost-effective manner.
This year’s InfoComm conference will herald the beginning of the death of the DSP based MCU. A number of firms are introducing systems that do all of the transcoding and signal processing in software. There are solutions across many consumption models. You can buy a next-generation hardware box that significantly reduces the rack space needed, you can buy the software only and load it on your own servers or VM slices, or you can just buy all of it as a service in the cloud (VAAS.)
Cloud video as a service options are definitely gaining traction. Many organizations are looking into this model — where video services are purchased as needed as an operational expense instead of investing in their own infrastructure. With this model, users can dynamically right-size their services — starting small, bursting with extra capacity when needed, scaling back when not needed.
All the new options will have a dramatic effect on costs. With software MCUs and cloud based VAAS new and existing video customers can scale deployments to new heights and reach new user communities that were price prohibitive in the past.
These changes will drive infrastructure costs down and exponentially increase the possible scale of calls being processed. They represent a massive change in the industry approach to video collaboration.
IMCCA member firms to see displaying these technologies:
- Acano – In booth number 1671, this new firm (which had been using the name SilverFlare up until recently, and includes much of the former development team from Codian) will be demonstrating a new class of infrastructure that unites previously incompatible audio, video and web technologies in “coSpaces” — virtual meeting rooms, only radically better. With the company's coSpace concept, people can work wherever their ideas and creativity thrive.
- AGT – In booth 1781, Applied Global Technologies (AGT) will demo its internally-developed Video-as-a-Service platform, which enables video conferencing across different networks and on a variety of video-enabled devices and endpoints, including HD video systems, tablets, smartphones, web browsers and UC clients.
- Blue Jeans – In booth 2087, Blue Jeans will be showing enhancements to its industry first “any to any” cloud bridging service. These include its new “room to remote” services that allow full mobile participation and HD content streams next to the HD video. The company will also be explaining its 'All You Can Meet' pricing, which is tiered based on company size and includes an attractive low annual fee that can result in per user licenses as low as $10 per user, per month.
- Cisco – In booth 2743, Cisco will show how it has now virtualized all components of its telepresence multiparty conferencing solutions – including TelePresence Server for bridging multipoint calls; TelePresence Conductor for resource optimization; Unified Communications Manager for call control; Video Communication Server (VCS) for B2B, remote and mobile worker support; and TelePresence Management Suite (TMS) for conference control, provisioning, scheduling, reporting, phonebooks and infrastructure management.
- LifeSize (a division of Logitech) – In booth 2173, LifeSize will show its UVC Platform – developed to let users choose how they want to deploy video infrastructure (in their virtualized environment or on hardware), as well as offering flexibility regarding which applications they want to activate, which features they want to access and the ability to add capacity as needs grow.
- Pexip – In booth 2167, Pexip (a brand new firm with former Tandberg executives and developers) has developed a truly virtualized software platform providing enhanced MCU functionality operating on industry standard servers. The company's solution will scale to thousands of users – finally allowing clients to deploy video affordably as an enterprise wide application.
- Polycom – In booth 1759, Polycom will demonstrate its RealPresence Platform: a comprehensive and interoperable UC software infrastructure for universal video collaboration. The open-standards approach of the RealPresence Platform ensures interoperability with hundreds of UC, business, and social networking applications. This includes its Collaboration Server 800s – a virtual, all software MCU. It will also show its new CloudAXIS Suite: a software extension of RealPresence that enables universal access to enterprise-grade, interoperable video collaboration to any business or consumer. With CloudAXIS you can send a URL link in an email or calendar invitation to anyone with a browser and camera, allowing others to join a secure, enterprise-grade quality video meeting using their smartphone, tablet, computer or video room system.
- Radvision, an Avaya company – will be in booth 1859 showing its Scopia Elite 6000 series MCU, which takes a unique hybrid software / hardware approach that delivers great video quality and very high port density.
- Vidtel – In booth 2189, Vidtel will demonstrate its cloud-based MeetMe service that delivers any-to-any collaboration, supporting SIP, H.323, WebRTC, Skype and Google Talk – making B2B video collaboration easier than ever.
- Vidyo – In booth 1581, Vidyo will be showing how its floating capacity licensing combined with its virtualized and networked infrastructure enables great flexibility and cost savings in large scale global deployments. Its system allows both infrastructure instances and capacity to float among locations for greater resource utilization and shorter ROI. Additionally, its VidyoWay interoperable cloud service is offered at no cost, further disrupting the VAAS marketplace.
How Much Did You Say That Costs?
Throughout the years that videoconferencing has been available it has been expensive. A decent room codec/system would run anywhere from $15K US to $30K US – and that was just for the videoconference device. In many cases you still needed to do room construction to make it ready, add in the cost for an appropriate table, good lighting and then all of the other AV parts needed such as displays and a control system – a room could easily run from $80K US on up. With the introduction of high-end telepresence about six years ago, the cost per remediated and installed room could easily go into the hundreds of thousands of dollars. Because of the high costs involved, a number of organizations have opted to use online “free” services for videoconferencing. (I explained why that was a bad idea in another blog – “Think Fred” – which you can read here.) At InfoComm this year we will finally see a major cost reduction in available endpoints. There are some really good room codec systems with PTZ cameras in the $3K US and below range, and at least one new HD room system that sells for under $1K US. Now you have to ask yourself, is a $1K US system as good as a $15K US system? The answer is clearly no, but it’s not fifteen times worse either. Organizations have to do their homework just as in the past, first understanding their actual business and ROI needs, then selecting a broad array of interoperable tools and systems to achieve ubiquitous and pervasive video – what I call selecting “The Right Blend.” This year’s InfoComm conference will have a number of price disruptive systems and applications on display.
IMCCA member firms to see displaying this technology:
- Cisco – In booth 2743, Cisco will be discussing its new commercial offers for small, medium and large multiparty conferencing deployments which can provide simplified user-based pricing. It will also be demonstrating its new DX-650 Android based Desktop Collaboration Experience.
- LifeSize (a division of Logitech) – In booth 2173, LifeSize will be showing its Icon Series, which blurs the lines between endpoint and infrastructure, delivering the performance of a full featured room system at a value price. It’s tightly integrated with the company's UVC virtualized platform – allowing for multiple applications, including streaming, recording, firewall traversal, multiparty video calling and endpoint management.
- Polycom – In booth 1759, Polycom will be showing its RealPresence mobile, Desktop and Group series of endpoints and applications. This will include its new Group 300 system, which has many of the distinctive Polycom features (such as SmartPairing, virtual whiteboarding and compatibility with their dual “eagle-eye” cameras) for a list price of about $3K.
- Radvision, an Avaya company – Will be in booth 1859 showing ots Scopia XT5000 room system, which features dual 1080p/60, H.264 High Profile and SVC, and now also offers an embedded four or nine-port MCU and SIP integration with Avaya IP Office. An affordable, all-in-one, room-based system, the XT5000 also offers an optional package for SMEs and workgroups that provides both Scopia Desktop and Scopia Mobile.
- TelyLabs – In booth 1692, TelyLabs will be showing the TelyHD, which represents a new category of room-based collaboration system entering the marketplace. Unlike traditional solutions that focus on providing an optimal experience for high profile situations regardless of price, this new category of solutions focuses on providing the most important features at an affordable price – suited for mass deployment. TelyLabs will be showing solutions that fill the gap between expensive, dedicated, high performance group video conferencing systems and the low or no cost, lower performance software solutions – and it will be doing it with an enterprise ready, standards based appliance at an unheard-of sub-$1k price per room.
- Vidyo – In Booth 1581, Vidyo will be making the case for its all-software endpoints, showing with their VidyoPanorama how a high-end, immersive telepresence room can be installed at less than $5K per screen.
Calling the death of DSPs, video in the cloud and extreme endpoint cost reductions industry disruptive factors is a significant understatement. These are trends that will permanently change the face of videoconferencing going forward. The 2013 InfoComm conference and the IMCCA Unified Collaborative Conferencing pavilion in particular are the place to be to see all these new systems and technologies. I hope you’ll be able to join us in Orlando to see all the changes first-hand. Here are the links for more information:
To get more information about InfoComm 13 and/or to register, click here: http://www.infocommshow.org/
To get more information about the IMCCA events at InfoComm 2013, click here: http://tinyurl.com/IMCCA-Infocomm13
Feel free to send me a note if you decide to go and want additional information on all the show will have to offer.
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This article was written by David Danto and contains solely his own, personal opinions. David has 35 years of experience providing problem solving leadership and innovation in media and unified communications technologies for various firms in the corporate, broadcasting and academic worlds including AT&T, Bloomberg LP, FNN, Morgan Stanley, NYU, Lehman Brothers and JP Morgan Chase. He now works with Dimension Data as their Principal Consultant for the collaboration, multimedia, video and AV disciplines. He is also the IMCCA’s Director of Emerging Technology. David can be reached at David.Danto@Dimensiondata.com or DDanto@imcca.org and his full bio and other blogs and articles can be seen at Danto.info. Please reach-out to David if you would like to discuss how he can help your organization solve problems or develop a future-proof collaboration strategy.
This column was reprinted with permission from David Danto and IMCCA and originally appeared here: http://www.imcca.org/news/the-changing-face-of-collaboration-disruptions-in-the-world-of-videoconferencing
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New Research Reveals Digital Signage's Impact on Sales and Promotions Editor's note: ProAV integrators doing digital signage, you can use this information as a tool to help sell your systems for retail applications.
A recent research project undertaken with the goal of understanding the effects of digital signage on non-gaming sales and offers in a casino environment sheds important light on the role of digital signage in general on sales and promotions.
A paper summarizing the results of the research is now available and provides valuable insight for anyone wondering whether to invest in digital signage and how to make their investment work.
What is clear from the study, which was a joint project conducted by Intel, Research Strategy Group, Ontario Lottery and Gaming, Capital Networks and EdCom, is that simply hanging a display on a wall without regard to placement or content undermines the potential dynamic digital signage offers versus traditional static signage.
The project, conducted between August and December 2012, was set up using an experimental design to compare three different digital signage deployment scenarios over three time periods:
- venues with digital signage
- venues with static signage
- venues with no signage.
The results allowed the researchers to estimate the effect of digital signage at the casino venues in three areas:
- free giveaways
- restaurant menu item sales
- sign-ups for a loyalty program.
Simple changes in advertising style can create a significant change in outcome. While most viewers did not notice the small font at the bottom of this ad, a more pronounced and visual “call to action,” included a flashing sign with the words “Free Tote Bag,” produced a tenfold increase in giveaways.
The Anonymous Video Analytics (AVA) data the Intel Audience Impression Metrics (AIM) Suite provided helped gain an understanding of the impact of the digital signage in relation to static signage and no signage and to draw important insights about the optimal location and content design for digital screens.
Overall, the results confirmed that digital signage has a notable impact on food purchase decisions such as those pertinent to free giveaways and restaurant items, but on the more complex decision-making required for signing up to a loyalty program, it was difficult from the results of this study to detect a measurable response.
Additional conclusions from the study include the following:
- The positioning of the digital screens is extremely important for reaching the target audience and for collecting reliable data. Consideration should be given to all factors that might affect the data collection. These factors include whether the screens are positioned close to gender or age specific locations that may skew the data.
- The average exposure time per visitor tended to be in the range of 2 to 3 seconds. This has implications for content design; like billboard advertising, digital ads are a glance medium. Content should be designed so that it allows the message to be absorbed at any point during viewing.
- Digital signage might have a stronger effect on new patrons than on "regulars."
- A high priority should be placed on the style of marketing messages. The project demonstrated that changing tote bag giveaway advertising to be more of a call to action increased the number of giveaways by a factor of 10.
- Digital signage seems to have an effect on restaurant menu items. Advertising an item on a digital screen can boost its sales or prevent a decline in sales.
- Overall, advertising of free items that require minimal decision-making seems to work better on digital screens than of products/services that require a more complicated thought process.
The complete research paper is available as a free download on the Capital Networks website.
This article was reprinted with permission from the Digital Signage Connection and originally appeared here.
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Share Article Back to Top Recently from rAVe's BlogSquad Mark Coxon: Eight Reasons That 4K is Just "Not Enough!"
Molly Stillman: To Cut or Not Cut the Cable Cord?
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Drunk Unkles Charity Concert Set for InfoComm! If you've never attended a Drunk Unkles Concert at InfoComm, you need to this year. The Drunk Unkles started more than 10 years ago as a casual hobby. They performed their first charity fundraising event to help support the family of an industry peer who unexpectedly lost his life. The NSCA Education Foundation has continued this tradition of supporting industry members during InfoComm, the NSCA Systems Integration Expo, individual member causes and other fundraising events throughout the year. The Drunk Unkles, made up of your industry peers include:
- Felix Robinson (Angel) – AVI-SPL
- “Unkle” Steve Emspak (Aerosmith Songsmith) – Shen Milsom & Wilke
- Marc Hochlerin (Mazarin) – Cerami & Associates
- Mike “The Pie” Phillips – Hudson Marketing Inc.
- Johnny “Bottom” Cardone – Cardone Solomon and Associates
- “Aunt” Lisa Wenger – Bosch Communications Systems
Here's the complete history of the band: http://www.nsca.org/Portals/0/Documents/Foundation/Drunk%20Unkles%20Bio%20for%20website.pdf
To date, this annual event has raised more than $100,000 for the NSCA Education Foundation, which focuses on the advancement of the systems integration industry by providing access to the best education and training programs for new students and current professionals.
This year's event will be at BB Kings (their third appearance at BB’s in Orlando) and you can find more information here: http://www.nsca.org/Foundation/Events/DrunkUnklesConcert/tabid/358/Default.aspx
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Share Article Back to Top NSCA and Women in AV to Hold Networking Reception NSCA, Women in AV (WAVE) and FSR will hold an informal networking reception on Wed., June 12 from 5 – 6:30 p.m. at The Peabody Hotel, Orlando, Fla. during InfoComm 2013. Both men and women are encouraged to attend this unique event where colleagues can network, share success stories, industry tips and ideas.
One recipient will also receive the Women in A/V Mentoring Award during the reception. This award will be given to a woman who excels in outstanding achievements in advancing women within the A/V industry. Nominations are now being accepted. Applications can be found at http://www.womeninav.com.
WAVE’s mission it to support women within the AV industry through collaborating, mentoring, and networking opportunities.
Register today for the reception at wavereception.eventbrite.com/
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March Projector Sales – Top 5 in Each Category PMA Research has posted its recent Projector Tracking Service results to the “Top Selling Projectors” area of its website.
For more than 15 years now, PMA Research has collected monthly sell-through data from leading North American projector dealers, retailers, web resellers and distributors. Its Tracking Service family of monthly reports offers timely sell-through data and analysis on unit sales, true volume-weighted street prices, and inventories of front projectors for these channels.
Each month, PMA Research posts the Top 5 Projector Lists for the following product categories:
Pico and Personal (sub-1000 lumens) Projectors — For Pico and Personal projectors, the March results showed that 3 of the Top 5 selling models, by unit volume, were WXGA resolution projectors. Taking the number one, three and five spots, respectively, were the Optoma ML-500, the Vivitek Qumi Q2 and the 3M MP410. Rounding out the Top 5 were the 480p resolution Optoma PK-320 and the nHD resolution Optoma PK-120 in the number two and number four spots. This Top 5 list is compiled from data collected from PMA’s monthly Retail Projector Tracking Service sample, which is made up of North American retailers and web resellers.
Mainstream (1000 to 3999 lumens) Projectors — For the Mainstream category, the March results showed InFocus taking top honors with their SVGA resolution IN112. The remaining “Top 5” models were all XGA resolution projectors, with the number two through number five best selling projectors being the Epson PowerLite 93+, the NEC NP-VE281X, the InFocus IN114 and the Epson PowerLite X12, respectively. This Top 5 list is compiled from data collected from PMA’s monthly Distributor Projector Tracking Service sample, which is made up of North American distributors.
High-End (4000+ lumens) Projectors — The March 2013 results showed that four of the best selling high-end models were WXGA resolution. The Top 5 models in March were the WXGA Hitachi CP-WX4021N and WXGA Epson PowerLite 1945W in the number one and two spots, respectively. Mitsubishi took the third and forth spots with their XGA XD700 and the WXGA WD720. NEC rounded out the Top 5 with the WXGA NP-PA550W. This Top 5 list is compiled from data collected from PMA’s monthly ProAV Projector Tracking Service sample, which is made up of North American dealers and integrators.
Here's their website: http://www.pmaresearch.com
Click here to see our infographic based on this report data: http://bit.ly/10CmrYF
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Share Article Back to Top See Gary Kayye Speak About Support Services and the Future of AV at InfoComm rAVe founder Gary Kayye will in Orlando in June as part of the organization Business & Management educational track of InfoComm's trade show. His session, "Support Services – The Future of AV" will be held Thurs., June 13th from 2:30 p.m. to 4:30 p.m.
As quality goes up, prices go down — that's the nature of the industry. At the same time, year after year, the needs of the user also continue to increase. Are you concerned about lower profit margins in selling products? In the midst of all this change, rest assured that there is a constant: Design, install and control programming will always be in demand. End users need you to provide these continual services. Garu's course will help you to unlock the answers as to how these industry changes will touch you and your business. Leave with concrete answers about how you can revamp your business model to continue thriving.
To register for free for the InfoComm show, use code MCTRA at http://www.infocommshow.org. Gary's session ID is IS075. You will be able to register for classes during registration.
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Share Article Back to Top BTX Now Offering Elite Screens' EPV Line of Premium Fixed-Frame and Electric Projection Screens BTX Technologies (BTX) has added Elite Screens Prime Vision (EPV) line of premium fixed- frame and electric projection screens to their distribution line.
With a width of 3.5 inches, EPV fixed-frame projection screens offer the thickest, most robust frames available. The line-up includes the Peregrine AcousticPro 4K that features Elite Screens' AcousticPro1080 acoustically transparent screen material. AcousticPro1080 offers a specialized high-density weave to meet the needs of digital projectors with resolution up to 4K (4096×2160), and is the industry's first screen material to eliminate the moiré effect completely. The Peregrine AcousticPro 4K is also available with a curved frame to heighten the sense of immersion for viewers.
EPV electric projection screens are backed by a three-year warranty and are offered in a variety of configurations, including in-ceiling, on-wall, in-cabinet and on-floor. A wide array of available screen materials includes CineWhite Tension for uniform flatness and MaxWhite FG screen material for enhanced picture quality and viewing angle. Features such as alternating 16:9 HDTV and 2.35:1 CinemaScope projection screen formats and Elite Screens' tubular motor provide simple and quiet operation, while IR/RF remote controls and 5 V to 12 V triggers put users in complete control.
Elite Screens' EPV line of fixed-frame electric projection screens is available now through BTX and more information is available at http://www.btx.com
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Share Article Back to Top Interesting Telescoping Magnetic Flashlight for Integrators Ever dropped a screw and can't seem to reach it? Impeltronics' new LED Telescoping Magnetic Flashlight is something every installer needs in his/her tool kit because there are magnets on both the head and tail end of the flashlight. It also offers:
- Three bright LED lights
- Extendable from a compact 6.75” to over 21” long
- Flexible LED Head for 360° directional rotation
- Uses only four LR44 Batteries for power
It's made of aluminum and includes a stainless steel clip.
Details are here: http://www.impeltronics.com/products/extendable-telescoping-magnetic-flashlight/
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Share Article Back to Top Extron Releases GlobalViewer Enterprise 2.0 Extron's GlobalViewer Enterprise 2.0 is a server-based software takes enterprise-wide scheduling, monitoring and help-desk functionality for both AV and IT gear. Microsoft .NET technology allows GlobalViewer Enterprise to integrate with third-party facility scheduling software for viewing room availability and managing meeting schedules. Working in conjunction with GVE, Extron's mobile AV resource management app, iGVE has been updated with several new features as well. This latest version of iGVE is available for download on the Apple App Store.
In addition to the features found in the current version of GlobalViewer Enterprise, version 2.0 offers many enhancements, including the ability to import up to five configurations at once; at-a-glance import status with progress bars and new icons; mouse-over tool tips for system menu, enhanced Event Alert List that is always visible or accessible in Help Desk and Monitor views; and added drag and drop functionality for rooms within Tree Manager. Also, with the addition of Google Chrome, this latest vesion of GlobalViewer Enterprise now supports all four of the most popular browsers.
All the details are here: http://www.extron.com
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Kramer Adds New 14-Input Multi-Format Presentation Switcher Kramer Electronics has announced a new member of Kramer’s line of multi−format switchers, the VP−28.
The VP−28 is a 14−input presentation switcher that handles composite video, HDMI, DVI, DisplayPort, computer graphics video and stereo audio and microphone signals. The VP−28 operates as a 3×1 composite video, 3×1 HDMI, 3×1 computer graphics video, 3×1 DVI−I and 2×1 DisplayPort switcher, each with unbalanced stereo audio. The 3×1 DVI (digital) sections can be used for DVI signals or it can be used for 3 more computer graphics video (analog) signals using special breakout cables that are included with the device.
The VP−28 can operate as a 5×1 video switcher and a 14×1 audio switcher. The unit’s Audio Level Memory remembers and returns to the last audio level setting for each audio input signal during switching. It has button selectable options for condenser or dynamic microphones and microphone and audio mixing options, including muting of the master audio output when a microphone signal is sensed. The VP−28 is also HDCP compliant and HDTV compatible.
The VP−28 has flexible control options including IR remote, Ethernet and RS232 (supplied with PC control software), and two microphone inputs with a mixing facility. It's housed in a 19” 1U rack mountable enclosure, with rack ears included.
The VP−28 is shipping now. For more information, click here: http://www.kramerus.com/products/model.asp?pid=2393
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Share Article Back to Top RF Analysis Right at Your Finger Tips — An AV Toolbox Gotta-Have Imagine having the power of RF analysis right at your fingertips. Well, we've found a handheld touch tablet RF Analyzer from Kaltman Creations called the RF-Vue that offers just that. The RF-Vue is offered in several versions, but the flagship model is the RF-Vue T10, a handheld unit integrated into a 10-inch Windows 8 touch tablet. The RF-Vue T10 covers the standard wireless microphone and IEM frequency range of 470MHz to 700MHz. Additional models are available that offer greater frequency ranges, plus there are standalone RF electronics/software modules for use with user-supplied computers or tablets.
The analyzer has full finger navigation functions so the user can pinch, expand-zoom, and slide through the RF spectrum with ease. As a true handheld RF spectrum analyzer, the user can enter any frequency sweep range (within the range of the analyzer), and view the RF spectrum looking for open RF space for channel selections, interference avoidance or interference troubleshooting, all in real-time. The unit features current, average and peak spectral traces, Touch-to-Listen (listenin to all RF space); a RF Congestion Scale to gauge the severity of local RF, customizable screen markers and insta-save custom profiles. As an added option, the recently released Invisible Waves RF intermodPRO also integrates right into the RFVueT for simultaneous intermodulation calculations based off of the real-time spectral display.
The analyzers are sold in several different affordable packages. The RF-Vue T10 is integrated into a 10-inch Touch Tablet with Windows 8, and lists for $1,750 and the RF-Vue T10X is an extended frequency version that covers 40MHz up to 2.5GHz and therefore covers all VHF and UHF microphones, IEM’s, assisted listening and remote control equipment, including the 900MHz, 1.9GHz and 2.4GHz bands. It lists for $1,995. Other versions include the RF-Vue NT, which is an electronics/software only version for USB connection to the user’s own tablet or laptop computer, with pricing starting at $1,095, and the RF-Vue NTX, which covers 40MHz to 2.5GHz covering VHF, UHF, cellular, Wi-Fi, etc., with a list of $1,350.
Here are all the specs: http://www.kaltmancreationsllc.com/
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Share Article Back to Top Juice Goose to Debut Five New Products at InfoComm Juice Goose has already told us what its plans to have at InfoComm and it's all about power. New products include:
JG 8LED: The JG 8LED features two slide out, dimmable LED lights that are brighter and more reliable than incandescent bulbs. Each light tube can be rotated to control the direction of the two light beams. After use, the lights slide inside the chassis to store conveniently away. Eight switched outlets on the back provide power while the discreet components inside provide a basic level of protection to help clean up dirty and dangerous AC voltage.
RACKPOWER 100: The RP100 professional grade power distribution module sports several valuable features. The two function power meter reports volts or amps in easy to read numerals. USB power ports on the front and the back of the chassis provide five volt DC for LED utility lighting, powering MP3 or charging smart phones. The rear AC outlets are rotated to accommodate wall warts and include extra generous spacing between four of them.
RP100 features a twelve foot power cord. It’s enclosed in a ten inch deep, reinforced Tour Class chassis. The multi stage power conditioning components include a series choke and fast reaction time surge clamps across hot, neutral and ground. This product is available in a fifteen or a twenty amp version.
RACKPOWER 200: The RP200 professional grade power distribution module sports several valuable features. The easy to read, two function power meter reports volts or amps. Cool-to-touch LED light tubes are brighter and more reliable than incandescent bulbs. USB power ports on the front and the back of the chassis provide five volt DC for LED utility lighting, powering MP3 or charging smart phones. The rear AC outlets are rotated and spaced to accommodate wall warts.
RP200 features a twelve foot power cord. It’s enclosed in a ten-inch deep, reinforced Tour Class chassis. The multi stage power conditioning components include a series choke and fast reaction time surge clamps across hot, neutral and ground. This product is available in a fifteen or a twenty amp version.
PIWI: The iP-1, “Piwi”, is a web based in-wall power control and monitor device. It has an on board web server that can activate each of the two receptacles on the duplex individually and monitor each for current draw (amperage) from anywhere on the planet. Piwi can also be integrated into a larger, cloud based control network to be activated and monitored over TCP/IP with any system using standard web based communications protocol.
Piwi consists of a front plate, duplex receptacle (NEMA 5-15R) and power control circuitry all installed in a metal enclosure which fits in a standard two gang spacing. A third gang space is required for power line connection. Metal face plates are available in black, white and ivory.
QIWI: The CQ-1, “Qiwi”, is a great in-wall extension of the CQ Series of power sequencing products. Flexible plug-and-play functionality needs no master controller and allows low cost adaptation to a wide range of system designs. The Qiwi metal enclosure, duplex and circuitry fit in a two gang space. A third space is required for power line connection. Qiwi has a sequence signal line input and output port to allow it to be daisy chained with any number of other CQ Series devices.
The increased popularity of powered speakers has created a need for distributed power control. Qiwi fills that need with an option for new or retrofit installation. The metal faceplates are available in black, white and ivory.
Here's the website: http://www.juicegoose.com/
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Share Article Back to Top Extron Now Shipping New Compact HDMI Fiber Optic Extender Extron is now shipping its HFX 100 HDMI Fiber Optic Extender, a transmitter and receiver set for long distance transmission of HDMI video and embedded audio signals over one fiber optic cable. It extends HDCP-compliant HDMI signals over a multimode fiber at lengths up to 300 meters (984 feet). This 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. To simplify integration, 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.
Here are the details: http://www.extron.com/product/product.aspx?id=hfx100&s=5
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Share Article Back to Top Panamax Ships MD2-ZB SmartPlug and BB-ZB1 BlueBOLT Gateway Today, Panamax started shipping its MD2-ZB SmartPlug and BB-ZB1 BlueBOLT gateway, both of which allow for energy management, surge protection and BlueBOLT functionality to individual outlets. Part of the Panamax "MD" family of direct plug-in devices, the MD2-ZB SmartPlug provides energy monitoring, individual outlet control, scheduled and surge protection in a small form-factor that plugs directly into any standard 120V, 15A outlet. Utilizing ZigBee wireless communications, the MD2-ZB can be monitored, controlled, programmed and remotely accessed via Panamax/Furman's cloud-based BlueBOLT energy management and control platform via the wired BB-ZB1 gateway.
For integrators, BlueBOLT allows for service calls through remote control of the MD2-ZB's two discrete AC outlets from any Internet-enabled device. In addition, the platform provides real-time and historical power related data, including energy consumption in kWh and dollars by outlet.
At 1.5 inches, the MD2-ZB houses two side-mounted outlets and provides status, network and wiring fault indicators, in addition to push-button "override" power switches to power outlets on/off instantly from the top of the device. To protect electronics, the unit's Protect-or-Disconnect circuitry completely disconnects AC power to connected equipment in the event of a catastrophic surge. To accommodate the look of any room, the MD2-ZB's front cover can easily be removed and painted to match the wall color.
Offering the plug-and-play ease of installation that BlueBOLT is known for, the gateway (BB-ZB1) connects to a user's network via an Ethernet cable and creates a wireless mesh network supporting up to fifteen SmartPlugs per gateway. MD2-ZB units will be added to each user's BlueBOLT account along with any hardwired BlueBOLT power conditioner component models, providing a single destination for simple and intuitive remote power and energy management solutions, anywhere in the world, via the cloud.
The MD2-ZB and BB-ZB1 list for $119.95 and $99.95, respectively, and specs are here: http://www.panamax.com/ |
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Share Article Back to Top Extron Ships TeamWork Extron's new TeamWork 400 Digital Collaboration System and the TeamWork VGA Kit is now shipping. The TeamWork 400 package supports groups of four users and is pre-configured for ease of installation with virtually any furniture system, new or currently in use. The simple and intuitive collaboration system also works with most flat panel displays, laptops, and tablets. For added flexibility, TeamWork is scalable and can be easily tailored to meet specific requirements with the addition of mounting hardware, support for legacy analog computer sources using the optional TeamWork VGA Kit, and other optional accessories.
The TeamWork system is designed for simple, intuitive operation with a minimum of training. Users simply connect their laptop or tablet to a TeamWork "Show Me" cable to start the system, then press the "Share" button to show their content on the presentation display. When done, users simply disconnect and walk away, and the TeamWork system automatically turns itself off and is ready for the next collaboration session. The TeamWork collaboration system is HDCP-compliant and supports full resolution, full frame rate digital video up to 1080p/60 and analog computer-video up to 1920×1200. Each TeamWork system package is complete and ready for installation, and includes HDMI "Show Me" cables, a switcher, a system controller, a Cable Cubby enclosure, and other necessary system cables. Mounting hardware is optionally available to facilitate different collaboration table or work surface designs.
To see all the specs, go here: http://www.extron.com/
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Share Article Back to Top Chief, Da-Lite and Epson Partner for Pre-Configured System Chief is now shipping the Chief Integrated Interactive System, an all-in-one design that brings together Chief mounts and Da-Lite screen technology to create a unified solution for the Epson BrightLink Pro 1410Wi (short-throw projector).
The system includes a custom Chief mount, Da-Lite Interactive Dry Erase Application Screen technology (IDEA), a dedicated housing for the interactive control pad and equipment and a marker tray. Since the mount is designed for the Epson projector, registration and service is fast and easy. The IDEA screen serves as a dual-purpose superior image quality projection screen and writeable marker board surface. The screen offers a gain of 2.5 and a 25 degree viewing half angle. The screen also is certified by the GREENGUARD Environmental Institute as a low emitting product.
The Chief Interactive System offers a complete, polished aesthetic for today’s boardroom. The platform comes in silver (AN1BA1), cherry (AN1BW2) or teak (AN1BW1) finish to fit any corporate environment. It uses four anchor points to float the board one inch off the wall to leave room for routing cables. A valence hides the projector from view to complete the clean installation.
An optional shelf accessory (AN1CA1) can be used to make the system camera-ready for teleconferencing purposes.
Chief is here: http://www.chiefmfg.com
Da-Lite is here: http://www.da-lite.com
Epson's projector is here: http://www.epson.com/cgi-bin/Store/jsp/Landing/brightlink-pro-interactive-projectors.do?ref=van_brightlink-pro
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Share Article Back to Top Extron Introduces New Multi-Window HDCP-Compliant Videowall Processing System Extron's new WindoWall Pro System is fully HDCP compliance at all HDMI inputs and outputs. WindoWall Console software is the user interface to the system, facilitating straightforward control and configuration of videowall systems, and the creation of presentations with multiple, independent windows for displaying graphics, HDTV and video. The WindoWall Pro System is an ideal choice for applications that require highly reliable, multi-window videowall systems.
Each WindoWall Pro processor allows for the display of up to four windows and employs Extron video processing technologies to deliver a fully optimized, high quality real-time video output. Because a discrete processor is dedicated to each display unit in the videowall, WindoWall Pro is fully scalable, supporting a wide variety of display layouts from 1×2 to 2×3 and larger. The HDMI inputs, outputs and universal analog video inputs support signal rates up to 1920×1200 and HDTV 1080p/60, plus 2K on the HDMI connections. Each WindoWall Pro processor features an HDMI background input, which allows a full motion, high resolution computer-video or HDTV signal to be used as a background image to any presentation.
To enhance and simplify integration of sources and displays, WindoWall Pro features Key Minder, an Extron-exclusive technology. For HDMI signals with protected content, Key Minder authenticates and maintains continuous HDCP encryption between input and output devices to ensure quick and reliable switching.
Here are all the specs: http://www.extron.com/product/product.aspx?id=mgp464w&s=5
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Share Article Back to Top Gefen Announces Two New GefenPRO Scalers for 3GSDI Gefen has announced the release of two new GefenPRO Scalers: the 3GSDI to 3GSDI Scaler and the HDMI and DVI to 3GSDI Scaler.
The 3GSDI to 3GSDI Scaler includes a frame synchronizer that generates a high quality video output when using different SDI sources and displays. Any SDI input can be up- or down-scaled to match the ideal video resolution output, supporting ED-SDI, HD-SDI and 3G-SDI formats.
Gefen says adjustable cadence detection, frame rate conversion, detail enhancements and advanced noise reduction all improve video quality. A built-in pattern generator with color bars and hatch patterns gives the ability to further fine-tune the video. This scaler can also be used as stand-alone frame synchronizer, where the video output is genlocked to house clock. All features are accessible through the on-screen menu, IR remote or RS232 control.
The HDMI and DVI to 3GSDI Scaler allows the user to switch between an HDMI or DVI source and convert and scale the output to all resolutions supported by 3GSDI up to 1080p or 2K. It has backwards compatibility with all SDI formats and an enhanced frame synchronization feature to genlock the video on the output. When using an HDMI source, two channels of audio can be output separately as S/PDIF coaxial and up to eight channels of HDMI audio will be embedded onto the 3GSDI stream.
For more information on the 3GSDI to 3GSDI scaler, click here: http://www.gefen.com/kvm/gef-3gsdi-2-3gsdis.jsp?prod_id=10362
For more information on the HDMI and DVI to 3GSDI scaler, click here: http://www.gefen.com/kvm/gef-hdvi-2-3gsdis.jsp?prod_id=11269
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Share Article Back to Top TouchSystems Introduces New 55-Inch Display with Multi-Touch TouchSystems has launched a new 55-inch 1920×1080 LCD display with multi-touch. The display is part of the X Series, TouchSystems’ line of executive-level touch screens.
The X 55, comprised of an industrial-strength, premium-grade panel, is designed for 24/7 operation and includes thermal protection, internal temperature sensors with self-diagnostics and fan-based technology. The display is LED BLU, meaning that power consumption is decreased and that the display has a slimmer depth. It also features a built-in, standardized expansion slot — commonly known as an Open Pluggable Specification (OPS) slot — that allows for seamless integration with third-party components such as single board computers or media players. The display is integrated with an infra red technology that offers 12 touch points.
Here are the specs: http://touchsystems.com/
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Share Article Back to Top Vaddio Combines Echo Cancellation and Automatic Mixing Into TRIO Microphones with SmartMIC Technology Vaddio's new TRIO audio line includes what it's calling SmartMIC technology — a microphone system integrated with Digital Signal Processing (DSP) and echo cancelation directly into the microphone itself — what appears to be an industry first. The internal DSP features microphone gating, equalization, AGC and noise cancelation.
Each TRIO SmartMIC is equipped with three electric condenser microphones positioned to form a 360-degree pickup pattern. This technology is based on the microphone’s ability to actively manage the room’s live audio for gain, gating and echo cancelation. Once detected, the microphone will adjust and mix down to a single output.
The TRIO MIC I/O interface device allows the connection of up to four SmartMICs and because each input is running three microphones on three different channels, users can technically run 12 microphones all with independent echo cancelation and internal DSP. For installations requiring more than 12 SmartMICs, just add an additional TRIO MIC I/O for 12 more channels.
Here are all the specs: http://www.vaddio.com/product/trio-table-mic
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Share Article Back to Top New Dante Enabled Digital Processors from Xilica Audio Design Xilica Audio Design and Audinate have announced the launch of Xilica’s new Dante enabled Neutrino and Uno Series Digital Processor models. Neutrino is an open architecture-drag and drop based DSP while Uno is a hybrid architecture/apps based DSP. Neutrino and Uno digital processors are available in 8×8, 8×16, 16×8 and 16×16 I/O models. Dante enabled models provide an additional 32 channels (16×16) of I/O via Audinate’s award winning Dante network solution. Neutrino and Uno Series Dante enabled models not available in N America.
Dante is built on IT standards, and is a complete media networking solution. Dante delivers a low-latency, tightly-synchronized, sample-accurate playback, while simplifying installation and configuration of A/V networks.
Here are the details: http://www.xilica.com/
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Share Article Back to Top Audica Professional Launches MULTIzone Audio System Audica Professional has announced it is expanding its MICROseries audio system capabilities with the launch of the MULTIzone. Aimed at retail, bars and restaurants, as well as hotels, museums and other public spaces requiring independent zone input and output control, the MULTIzone is a four-zone control mixer with six music inputs, plus a microphone input for paging. Each of the four outputs can be independently configured to provide music from any one of the inputs plus the paging microphone and the relative levels are set by front panel controls. The music is automatically ducked to allow for announcements to be heard clearly. Up to seven MULTIzone units can be linked for systems of up to 28 zones.
Zone outputs are individually switchable for flat response or Audica loudspeaker EQ, allowing for systems using Audica or any other brand of loudspeaker. A mute control input is provided for connection to fire control systems. This mutes all music inputs while keeping the paging microphone active for safety announcements. Remote zone control is possible via optional in-room wired wall control panels or via an RS232 interface. The RS-232 interface allows control of all basic functions of the unit.
The MULTIzone can be used freestanding, or mounted in its included 19-inch rack-mount panel. Balanced and unbalanced outputs are provided for the MULTIzone to partner with Audica’s four-channel MICROplus power amplifier, or any other unit.
Go here to see all the specs: http://www.audicapro.co.uk
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Share Article Back to Top Adamson Launches Three New Line Arrays and a Sub The new Energia e12 is designed as a standalone mid-size line array but can also be used as a downfill, or side fill in a larger e15 arena system. It will be a versatile solution for large format touring companies and regional rental companies.
Inside the box is Adamson’s new 12” Kevlar driver, the ND12S with advanced cooling and larger xmax, providing uncompromised LF extension, in a 12’ line source system. By utilizing Adamson’s advanced cone architecture, the ND12S has reduced eddy currents and intermodulation distortion by utilizing shorting rings in the motor design. The 12” cone and dustcap are manufactured entirely out of Kevlar creating the most weather resistant low frequency component in the industry.
The weight of the e12 makes this box an ideal candidate for venues with point load restrictions or smaller format applications. The e12 is incredibly light weight but that doesn’t mean it lacks power as it harnesses all of the power of the e15 in its slimmer bodied design.
The new Energia e218 is designed as a companion sub for the Energia Series e15 and e12 and can be flown together with an e12 or a stand-alone array. The self-contained rigging allows for curved or flat array when it’s flown but will also travel three up on a cart. Within the manifold design are two of Adamson’s new ND18S drivers with a dual spider voice coil stabilizing design. The drivers are coated in silicone for long term suspension memory and shorting rings are used to eliminate eddy currents and reduce intermodulation distortion.
And the new A218 is all purpose sub that is front loaded with two of Adamson’s new ND18S drivers. The drivers have a dual spider that is coated in Silicone for long term suspension memory. The drivers are equipped with Kevlar cones with Adamson’s signature advanced cone architecture. Shorting rings were integrated to eliminate eddy currents and reduce intermodulation distortion. Cardioid plugs are included on the front of the cabinet to ensure easy cabling in front/back configurations.
Finally, the Point Concentric Series brings a powerful range of passive, co-axial, loudspeakers designed for both installation and rental markets to the Adamson tool box. The multipurpose cabinets are available in a double 5" (PC5), single 6" (PC6), single 8" (PC8), single 10" (PC10) and a single 12" (PC12) version. This discreet range of cabinets, come coated with water borne acrylic paint, while all metalwork is finished with a Sandtex Powder Coating. Keeping form with the acclaimed Point Series, all cabinets can be color matched to the RAL library.
The PC5 and PC6 are the smallest cabinets in the Point Concentric Series, and provide a 70-degree conical pattern in a very compact package. Both cabinets ship with standard M10 fly points in 4 locations and additional rear Omnimount points. Threaded Pole mount hardware (for mic stand) or barrier strips can be installed, at no charge, on either cabinet by request. The PC5/PC6 cabinets are designed to produce linear, high resolution audio throughout their bandwidth. Regardless of their modest size, both cabinets produce warm mid bass and plenty of punch for their weight class. As a standalone cabinet, under balcony, or stair fill, the versatile PC5 and PC6 cabinets will fit a variety of applications.
When a little more power is required, designers and rental companies can step it up and reach for the 8", 10" or 12" option in the Point Concentric Series. The larger members of the family are shipped with standard M10 and Omnimount points, but also offer optional vertical yokes for versatility. Unlike their smaller companions, the PC8/PC10 and PC12 ship with standard pole mount hardware. A unique rotatable jack plate allows for either Neutrik or Barrier Strip connections on the bottom or back of each enclosure. Simply unfasten a few screws and rotate the jack plate to change the termination position.
All of them can be found here: http://www.adamsonsystems.com
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Share Article Back to Top L-ACOUSTICS Launches LA4X Amplified Controller The L-ACOUSTICS LA4X amplified controller is based on a four-input by four-output matrix architecture and uses a universal switch mode power supply suitable for mains from 90V to 265V. A "green" product, the power supply features something they call "Power Factor Correction", which maximizes the amplifier efficiency and takes advantage of nearly 100 percent of the electrical power available with a very high tolerance to unstable mains. Class D amplification circuits ensure the LA4X energy-efficiency for minimal heat dissipation. LA4X delivers 4x1000W RMS power at 8 ohms (or 4 ohms) with record hold times.
The LA4X inputs are available in analog or digital format. Four cascaded 24-bit A/D converters at the front-end yield a groundbreaking encoding dynamic of 130 dB. AES/EBU digital inputs operate with sample rate converters from 44.1 kHz to 192 kHz. Fallback functions make the creation of redundant audio paths possible.
A dedicated engineering approach combining IIR and FIR filters generates perfectly linearized phase curves and significantly improved impulse responses. The pool of 8 IIR and 3 FIR filters, the Array Morphing tool and the 1000 ms of delay per channel allow the amplified controller to act as an EQ station and cover the room tuning tasks without the need for external processing. The L-DRIVE protection system carries out a dual analysis of signal level in real-time and RMS.
The design of complex systems is made possible by the integration of the L-NET Ethernet-based network. Thanks to its high-speed data transfer protocol of 100 Mbit/s, up to 253 units can be controlled and monitored in real-time by the LA NETWORK MANAGER software.
Here are all the specs: http://www.l-acoustics.com/products-amplified-controllers-69.html
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Share Article Back to Top Avlex Intros New Wireless Transmitters Avlex has introduced two new MIPRO 7 Series wireless transmitters — the ACT-71Ta bodypack transmitter and the ACT-71Ha handheld transmitter. Designed for field production, presentations, theatrical and live performance, the new 7 Series wireless transmitters incorporate Ultra-Wide bandwidth operation with support for the entire 72 MHz frequency spectrum of the 7 Series receivers.
ACT-71Ta Miniature Wideband UHF Bodypack Transmitter
Drawing upon the experience gleaned from three generations of MIPRO ACT wireless products, the new MIPRO ACT-71Ta bodypack transmitter features a small form factor, making it a good choice for concealing the unit in wardrobe for theatrical, TV or film production and equally ideal for the business presenter or worship leader.
The ACT-71Ta bodypack transmitter provides a silent on/off switch with a separate mute button and provisions for the optional MJ-70 remote mute switch control, enabling the person wearing the transmitter to easily mute/unmute the transmitter — even when it is buried underneath clothing. It offers end user lockout function, programmable RF power and audio gain levels, mini-XLR connectivity with a threaded bayonet attachment, a detachable belt clip and support for MIPRO’s ACT function, which facilitates rapid and precise transmitter frequency setup.
ACT-71Ha Wideband UHF Handheld Microphone Transmitter
Like its sibling, the new MIPRO ACT-71Ha handheld transmitter features a lightweight magnesium alloy housing that is designed to be rugged and comfortable to hold. Avlex says the unit’s true condenser cardioid capsule provides high SPL, wide dynamic range and fast transient response, making this transmitter a good choice for spoken and vocal applications.
Like the ACT-71Ta bodypack transmitter, the new ACT-71Ha handheld transmitter features a silent on/off switch with a separate mute button for precise control over the unit during operation. Additional attributes include a backlit LCD display for keeping track of channel and battery status, an end user lockout function, programmable gain and RF output power, which enable this handheld transmitter to be optimized for its environment, plus MIPRO’s ACT function for rapid and precise transmitter frequency setup.
The ACT-71Ta bodypack transmitter lists for $549.00 and the ACT-71Ha handheld transmitter lists for $579.00. Find more information about both here: http://avlex.com/
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Share Article Back to Top Flypaper Studio Adds QR Technology for Increased Consumer Engagement Flypaper Pro has added Quick Response (QR) technology that allows consumers to use their mobile device to scan a unique code and directly access targeted information provided by the display owner. It's part of their new software version 3.9 with several new features and enhancements. The QR Generator helps content creators give end users access to additional information by making it easy to include a QR Code in their displays. They simply type in a URL and the software produces the QR Code and inserts it into the content.
The QR Wayfinder will get end users where they’re going. They type in beginning and end points to get a QR Code they can scan with their mobile device to download customized directions to their destination.
Other Flypaper 3.9 updates include:
- Flybrary List View: Quickly scroll through a text listing of Flybrary items.
- Digital Sign Templates: Templates specifically designed for digital signage applications are now available for Flypaper Pro users.
- Component Enhancements: Improvements to several Flypaper Pro Components including: Image Cube, Image Gallery, Clock, Weather and CSV. Version 3.9 also adds a Charting Component to quickly add dynamic charting to any project.
- Safe Image Search: Filters out inappropriate images with a default setting that produces only Flickr-approved results.
You can download a 30-day free trial at: http://www.Flypaper.com
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Share Article Back to Top Altia Systems Ships Panoramic PanaCast Conferencing Altia Systems is now shipping the PanaCast Experience for desktop and mobile device multi-point communications. PanaCast delivers an immersive, real-time, 200-degree panoramic video experience with up to 60 fps and HD audio to anyone, anywhere with an Internet connection. Even at 3G wireless speeds, PanaCast enables Panoramic-HD video quality and always includes enterprise-level video encryption.
Each remote participant (using the free PanaCast app) can choose her own individual perspective from the stationary camera’s real-time panoramic video stream with the swipe of a finger (or zooming in and out with a finger pinch/spread).
The PanaCast system is not only fully portable, but also offers usability through its integration of both NFC and QR code technology. This makes creating and joining a videoconference session as easy as touching a smartphone to the top of the camera or scanning the QR code.
Altia Systems' PanaCast experience is created through the integration of the panoramic — HD video camera-server, a real-time Cloud switch fabric and free apps.
The camera works with both Skype and Google Hangouts as well as other business applications, or it can be bundled with the cloud-based PanaCast service (in the U.S., starting at an introductory price of $19/month per user).
Here are the details: http://altiasystems.com/panacast/
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Share Article Back to Top Tony Ferrero to Join Audio Authority as Sales Manager Audio Authority, a manufacturer of AV switching, distribution, conversion and intercom products, announced last month that Tony Ferrero will join the company as sales manager.
To read the complete press release online, click here. Back to Top Marc Goossens Joins Meyer Sound as Business Development Manager, Installation Markets Meyer Sound has appointed Marc Goossens to the newly created position of business development manager, installation markets.
To read the complete press release online, click here. | Back to Top Visix Creative Services Wins Two Hermes Awards and Four Communicator Awards Visix, Inc. received four Communicator Awards and two Hermes Creative Awards for its interactive wayfinding and multimedia designs for digital signage. The awards were announced last week and bring the total number of awards and honors for Visix Creative Services team to 32.
To read the complete press release online, click here. Back to Top 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). Don't like us, then go away — unsubscribe! Just use the link below. To send me feedback, don't reply to this newsletter. Instead, write directly to me at gary@ravepubs.com or for editorial ideas, Editor-in-Chief Sara Abrons at sara@ravepubs.com 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. Everything we publish is Opt-in — we spam NO ONE! rAVe ProAV Edition is our flagship ePublication with what we believe is a reach of virtually everyone in the ProAV market. rAVe HomeAV Edition, co-published with CEDIA and launched in February 2004, is, by far, the largest ePub in the HomeAV market. We added rAVe Rental [and Staging] in November 2007, rAVe ED [Education] in May 2008 and then rAVe DS [Digital Signage] in January 2009. We added rAVe GHGav [Green, Healthcare & Government AV] in August 2010 and rAVe HOW [House of Worship] in July 2012. You can subscribe to any of those publication or see ALL our archives by going to: https://www.ravepubs.com To read more about my background, our team and what we do, go to https://www.ravepubs.com Back to Top Copyright 2013 – rAVe [Publications] – All rights reserved – All rights reserved. For reprint policies, contact rAVe [Publications], 210 Old Barn Ln. – Chapel Hill, NC 27517 – (919) 969-7501. Email: Sara@rAVePubs.com
rAVe contains the opinions of the author only and does not necessarily reflect the opinions of other persons or companies or its sponsors.
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