Volume 12, Issue 13 — July 10, 2014
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Editorial Editorial Editorial Editorial Editorial Editorial
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Industry News Audio Unified Collaborative Conferencing Displays Projection Control & Signal Processing
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A Pixel-And-Ink-Stained Mini-Update: Infocomm 2014
By Leonard Suskin Pixel and Ink-Stained Wretch
Some super-quick pixel-and-ink stained impressions from Day 1 of my InfoComm experience. Expect a longer update when I return to New York and have the time to digest the events of the show and figure out what the overall story is. For now, quick impressions:
Pat Brown remains smart. I had the pleasure of a two hour seminar with Pat Brown of SynAudCon on amplifier specifications, including the math that goes into sizing an amplifier, why better quality audio sounds quieter, and an introduction to the new Common Amplifier Format. Fun activity: Ask various vendors if they have CAF data for their amps. You’ll either get a “no,” a blank stare, or a “no” followed by a blank stare.
Vidyo remains interesting. In an increasingly crowded unified communications field, long-time player Vidyo remains relevant in its attempt to include – and showcase – as wide an array of platforms as possible. In the booth, the company has demonstrations with its own hardware, smartphones, a competitor’s codec (Lifesize) and a PC running Lync. They even had three employees call in from remote locations spending the entire day staring into a videoconference camera to give that multi-call experience.
AVB remains promising, but frustrating. The AVNU alliance had the usual demonstrations of mostly audio products with a little video. It’s still very nearly where it has been; a very promising technology needing more applications before it takes off.
Interesting moves from Biamp. Biamp finally released an AEC-enabled version of its Tesira extenders. This allows a much more reasonable build for a centralized system, They also have a partnership with Lab Gruppen in which one of Lab Gruppen’s new amplifiers now comes with what seems to be a mini-Tesira processor built in. This to me says that Lake Processing (member of the TC group along with Lab Gruppen) is not interested in moving to the vtc/install market. Microsoft really is just looking. Did you see the Microsoft booth? Lots of white space. It might be the biggest booth in the show AND have the smallest amount of product.
Women in AV continue to be relevant. Too many booths on the show floor are using women as decoration. Given that and the male-dominance, it’s wonderful to see the Women in AV continue to work towards broader acceptance and access in the industry. The second annual mentoring award was given to Theresa Hahn of Verrex; it is well deserved ant the work she does on behalf of the industry continues to be relevant. Let’s all work toward a time when this is no longer needed.
More to come! Watch me here, on Twitter or on the show floor for more. Leave a Comment
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InfoComm Mini Update: Part the Second
By Leonard Suskin Pixel and Ink-Stained Wretch
The second — and final — day of this year’s InfoComm journey is behind me. More when I get home, but here are a few quick impressions:
Vaddio debuted its new line of Roboshot cameras. These have some nice features, including installer-adjustable lens stops to configure the same camera for wide angle or tight zoom shots. Better yet, these cameras have an on-board webserver, finally allowing IP control. The Vaddio team remains playful in a good way, this time dressing in Grateful Dead inspired custom TShirts, one of which I walked our I’d the booth with. Now all I need is a Cadillac. Smart Tech introduced something different, the Smart Kapp capture board. It’s a neat idea: a dry erase board which can, via a Web app, capture your sketches and send them to a tablet or smart phone. It’s a different way to bridge the digital and analog worlds. I seem to have won one in a Twitter contest by taking an AV selfie with it, so you’ll possibly get more impressions of it from me later.
There was also some buzz about the gorgeous direct-view LED video walls, including one from Christie Digital with less than a 2mm pixel pitch. From about five feet back the individual dots just disappear (that is a subjective impression. perhaps I’ll check the math on this one when I get home). It’s also a sort of technology which can deliver very high contrast. This could be a very promising solution.
Yesterday I mentioned AVB as a bit of a disappointment. Dante continues to grow into the dominant platform, becoming a defacto standard. There are great options for Dante inputs and outputs, including break-in boxes, amplifiers, wireless Mic systems. Stewart Audio had a nice line of small network-enabled amplifiers using Dante. They are joined by Kramer, the 150th Dante licensee. Kramer quietly debuted a product very similar to Stewart’s which, as of this writing, I cannot find on its website. This is the kind of product that gives me ideas for creating distributed systems. It also lead to a great discussion with the Stewart team about both done upcoming products and the plusses and minuses of a potential PoE amp. This is a discussion which will continue.
There’s more. What, I’d any big stories did I take away? What did I think of the standards circus? Why did I give the cold shoulder to the VP off marketing from Earthworks, and why was that Purelink’s fault? Stay tuned! Leave a Comment
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Post InfoComm Wrap-up: Part the Third – The Issue of Booth Babes and A Call to Arms
By Leonard Suskin Pixel and Ink-Stained Wretch
My InfoComm wrap-up will be in FOUR parts this time. Next part will be about technology. Before we get into that, I have something important to say — something about this show which bothers me. Read on.
Some of you who follow me on Twitter might have seen my hashtag #AVHallOfShame. It’s one I use for the cringe-worthy AV moments; sloppy wiring, soundbars in places from which sound can’t possibly carry to viewers, badly-sized or badly-placed displays, etc. This week I tagged Purelink’s booth at InfoComm booth with #AVHallOfShame, but it wasn’t for the quality of their workmanship. I didn’t even get close enough to look. What was my issue? Take a look at this, from their marketing email:
Yes, someone at Purelink thought that young women in the tightest, skimpiest outfits they could get away with was an appropriate and reasonable way to bring attention to their booth. (I’m not, perhaps, being entirely fair in singling out Purelink. KeyDigital’s model in a backless Tardis dress wasn’t much better, nor were any number of models in short, tight dresses representing literally scores of manufacturers. Crestron continues to hire scantily clad models as living wayfinding signs to get the masses from one part of their party to the next. There are many examples. Purelink just stood out as the most egregious.) For all of the women in the industry — an industry in which women still need to fight for acceptance — it sends a message. That they remain outsiders. That no matter how hard they work, no matter how many find themselves in increasingly important roles, they will always be uninvited guests at somebody else’s party. They will be tolerated because the law says that we have to tolerate them, but this is not their space and they aren’t to forget it. It tells women that they’re in a space run by men, for men.
It sends a message to men too. A message that this is our space which we needn’t worry too much about sharing. That boys will be boys, that any complaints could be shrugged off with a frat-boy smirk. It says that we’re welcome to make bawdy jokes, to use “sexy” exploitive video as test media. It says that it’s OK to ignore the sensibilities of those who are different.
It says that this is a boys’ club and that we’re free to treat it that way. It’s also, at the end of the day, a waste of my time and yours. I don’t want to have to get my badge scanned by some hired-for-the-day model in a short dress and high heels who probably didn’t even know that the manufacturer whose booth she is manning existed a week ago. If a woman greets me at a booth, I want it to be someone like Penny Silter of Draper, Kristen Recker of ListenTech, or someone else who’s learned the product, lived the product and believes in it. Someone who can tell me something I don’t know and someone who is there for the same reason as I am – because we care about the AV industry and want to share our knowledge. Not because we look good in a dress (and take my word for it — I look marvelous in one).
Towards the end of a day in which I grew increasingly annoyed by this issue I came to the Earthworks booth, only to be greeted by a woman in a skirt and uncomfortable-looking heels. Not wanting to do the “scan your badge-then let me find someone who even knows what this booth is about” dance again, I gave her the low-temperature scapula as I stalked into the booth looking for someone actually employed by Earthworks and not a modelling agency. The punchline, of course, is that there wasn’t anyone else in the booth: The “model” I’d stalked past was, in fact, Megan Clifford, Earthworks’ Director of Brand Marketing. Oops.
We did get to chat about their new install mics and I, of course, offered an apology for being an AV oaf (should that be a new hashtag?). So much as I blame myself for jumping to conclusions, I also blame an industry which spent the previous day and a half delivering a message to me: The women in high heels are there for decoration. They aren’t product experts but guns for hire, there to catch the eye of the straight males who make up the only part of the potential market about whom we seem to care.
When I tweeted this, Draper’s Twitter account responded with a sigh, and the question of “When will this end”? My answer — expanded from the 140 characters I was constrained to in the initial conversation – is that it will end when we decide to make it end. When those of us who are offended by it speak up and let everybody know that we’re mad and let them know why. Let them know that, in the long term, this is harmful to the women and men in our industry. That casual sexism should be just as shocking as casual racism would be. We’re not there yet. We may not get there for a long time. Until we do, I call on you to stand with me, to speak up. If you don’t, we’ll stay where we are.
This InfoComm I was too wrapped up in what InfoComm means to me to speak up at the time; I regret not saying this sooner, not saying this during the show. I’ll close with a call to action, for all of you and for myself. To borrow the big-brotherish slogan from my city’s own police department, if you see something, say something. Tweet it (others have used the hashtag #NotBuyingIt for similar issues. We can do the same). Blog it. Transmit it via compression waves generated from your larynx. Talk to your colleagues. Talk to the offenders. Be respectful, of course, but be strident. Be passionate. If you’re a woman in the industry, stand up for yourself and the other women in our industry. If you’re a man, stand up for our sisters, let them know that they aren’t alone and let the rest of us know that we won’t stand for this behavior.
When will this end? When we decide to end it.
Let’s get to work. Leave a Comment
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Infocomm Wrap-up, Part the Fourth — Hits and Misses
By Leonard Suskin Pixel and Ink-Stained Wretch
A week past my return from InfoComm, I’m finally getting to write my overall reflections on the show and what technology I saw there. For further perspectives, visit my esteemed colleague Alex Mayo, who offers his own perspective. Alex is a bright man and a very talented designer with whom I’m quite fortunate to work. I especially agree with him on the growing role of enterprise-wide resource management and analysis as part of our projects.
Before I start, I’d like to tip my hat to Draper, to Corey Moss, to George Tucker, and to everyone else who added their voice to the discussion of “booth babes” and the larger topic of sexism in the industry. This is a conversation that isn’t over by a long-shot, and it’s my sincere hope that we keep it up and see some changes next year. Now, on with the show! Overall, InfoComm this year was fun and informative, but it wasn’t a year that felt important in that it would change how we think about AV. Much of it felt evolutionary to me, as existing product lines were refined and expanded upon but few really new and daring changes came. Here are some hits and misses, along with my reflections.
Hit: Network-Centric AV
It’s been quite some years since vendors such as SVSI started selling JPEG2000 encoded video as a transport and routing solution. It certainly is feeling to me that the time for this technology has finally come now that we have greater IT/AV convergence, proliferation of higher-bandwidth lower latency networks, and — perhaps most importantly — changes to workflow and overall expectations. SVSI has expanded their uncompressed video over network line to include 4K and has also expanded their control and video-wall processing offerings. ClearOne, Aurora Multimedia, Crestron, AMX and others have all thrown their collective hats in the ring, with solutions including H.264, JPEG2000, and/or uncompressed video offerings. Crestron’s introduction of an H.264 card (not an InfoComm introduction, but new for this year) is an elegant solution for hybrid designs in which in-room transport is handled by more traditional means.
The best part of this is the number of technologies being deployed. Uncompressed video is critical in latency-sensitive environments such as annotation. Compressed video solutions — most of which are configurable for different levels of quality and bandwidth — are excellent for campus-wide distribution, while uncompressed video is still a requirement for highly latency-sensitive control and annotation applications.
Miss: HDBaseT, Other Video Over Structured Cable
This wasn’t a miss in that it’s bad technology; I still use this kind of solution in nearly every AV system I design. What makes it a miss for me at the show is that the technology seems to have plateaued. Yes, we can now send 4K content over copper and that’s a big plus. With relatively little content available, 4K is still a little bit of a niche technology. Does it remain something for which we need to prepare? Absolutely. Does 4K capability offer real utility in 90 percent of AV systems? Not really. For a “near miss” see the demo by TVOne division Magenta Research of 1080p content over an entire spool of category cable. This is quite impressive, especially for those of us who’ve sometimes struggled with marginal signal over long cable runs. The problem is that it seems like yesterday’s technology; if I have an endpoint an entire cable-spool away from its source, I’d far more likely use a network-based solution. The geek in me finds this really cool; the designer in me is not sure I’ll ever use it.
Hit: Direct-view LED Displays
Some of the biggest buzz was over direct-view LED displays, especially Christie’s Velvet, with a 2 millimeter pixel pitch and Silicon Core’s Magnolia at 1.5 millimeter. This is very, very impressive and lets viewers get very close to the display before the image appears to break up to a series of dots. Aside from obvious applications in outdoor displays, this technology has finally reached the point at which it’s tempting for a boardroom or conference room application — especially if the alternative involves taking apart the side of a building to fly in a piece of rear-projection glass.
Miss: Complicated Hardware Control Appliances
The above-mentioned Mr. Mayo stated his lack of interest in proprietary touch panels. His argument is that consumer-grade tablets — especially the fruit-flavored ones from Cuppertino — have as much if not more capability at a fraction of the cost. We’ll soon reach the point at which we can extend that to control processors. I got a peek at the new processors from AMX, and found them a bit time-warpy. They have a nice, low-profile 1RU controller with a ton of serial, IR and relay ports on the back of it. This would be wonderful a few years ago, but today I see more and more IP-based control and less and less RS232. I’ll say the same about new touch panels from Crestron. Are they improving? Yes. Do they match the capability and cost of an iPad? Not at this point.
Hit: Web Control and Monitoring
I had a brief chat with departing Vaddio CEO Rob Sheeley who showed off an integrated webserver in Vaddio’s new RoboShot line of pan/tilt/zoom robotic cameras. This removes perhaps the last major use of RS232 from many projects. It also opens the possibility of adjusting camera settings via a remote interface rather than from the rack-mounted camera control unit. Very much a welcome change and improvement. That the camera itself has a slick, modern design doesn’t hurt.
Hit: Wireless Collaboration/Video Streaming
Not only are these proliferating, they’re getting better. On the simpler end, we have the WePresent/Clickshare CSM/Airmedia family. There is also the software-only product from Mersive, which was already impressively responsive before a recent software upgrade. Rounding out the appliance side are the Wow Vision/Kramer product and the AMX Enzo. Now that Enzo has added Miracast and Apple screen-mirroring support, these are both viable solutions in this space. What makes them more appealing is that each has the ability to run secondary applications — Windows 7 programs in the case of Wow Vision and what appears to be a Java-based system for AMX. This is what caught my interest when Enzo was first introduced last InfoComm, but as of that time the only app available was Dropbox. With the introduction of screen mirroring AND the promise of Lync/Skype integration by the end of the year, Enzo has gone from an expensive Dropbox machine to an intriguing solution for small collaborative soft-conferencing oriented spaces. I look forward to seeing more.
Soft hit: Dante
We’ve seen the 150th Dante licensee, Kramer Electronics, with a set of small (half-rack) amplifiers. ClearOne, after depending solely on its proprietary G-Link, not only is adding Dante to its Converge product line, but is also now producing a 512×512 Dante-based DSP. Audinate itself launched Via, a nice expansion on the concept of the existing “Virtual Soundcard.” Via recognizes all of the audio I/O capabilities of a computer (including both software options such as music players or soft Codecs AND hardware options including speakers, mics and embedded audio on HDMI) and will allow them to be explicitly displayed as inputs or outputs on Dante Controller. Having direct access to applications as well as physical I/O is a very interesting change; I look forward to finding ways to take advantage of this new capability.
Miss: AVB
When I mentioned AVB to one of my colleagues, he had one question for me: “Is it dead yet?” I don’t think it quite is, but it is, at best, on life-support. Crown Audio (as well as the rest of the Harman family) supports AVB, as do a handful of other endpoint manufacturers. Biamp now has AEC available in an AVB-enabled expansion box, but that’s about it for the exciting AVB news; it has nowhere near the robust ecosystem which has grown around Dante. In fact, I can’t think of anything I could do at this point with AVB that I couldn’t do more easily in a Dante system. Mark Coxon may see it as the great big promise for Harman; I’m not quite ready to stick a fork in it and declare it “done” but, at least as an audio-transport medium, I’m very, very close.
Overall
This was a nice show, but not a dazzling one; I walked away with, as usual, some interesting ideas and thoughts but nothing which radically changed my thinking on anything in the industry. The industry continues to move, yet at a slow pace. Most symbolic of that, perhaps, was the much-discussed Microsoft booth. Microsoft arrived to display… nothing very much. Some charging stations, displays and the promise of white space and what may fill it tomorrow. Leave a Comment
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InfoComm 2014 — I Think We’ve Got It!
By David Danto Director Emerging Technologies, IMCCA
The InfoComm 2014 conference — the world’s largest communications expo — is coming to a close today — and after this year’s jaunt to Las Vegas the world will never be the same.
Over the next few days I and countless others will be writing blogs, reviews and wrap-ups describing the details of what took place here. Amidst all of the displays and projectors, codecs and cameras and microphones and processors one point stands out. What we saw this year was an end-user revolution – and I’m as giddy about it as Professor Henry Higgins was when his Fair Lady finally figured out how to properly speak.
Our industry’s approach to conference rooms and collaboration sadly hadn’t changed in 30 years. We built custom, overcomplicated, expensive rooms and blamed end-users for not understanding them when they failed. We filled everyone’s heads with “speeds and feeds” using technobabble and buzzwords – H.264/H.265, 4K, HDMI, Pixel Density, ANSI Lumens, SIP, HD, and on and on. Only the bravest and brightest technologists would stay connected with this messaging and regrettably would typically have the same difficulties with passing it along. The result being that these vital technologies were rarely adopted or heavily utilized by their user base. This year though we’ve most definitely turned a corner. At the Unified Communications Solution Summit – co-presented by InfoComm and The IMCCA – the attendees shot from last year’s mid-300s to over 1300 this week. Approximately 85 percent of them were serious end user representatives of their organizations wanting to learn how we could improve the collaboration experience. In those sessions and on the exhibit floor almost no one was talking about those dreaded speeds and feeds. It was all about the experience – how do we make the tools and solutions that work for real people, not how do we get people to understand how to use our industry’s arcane tools and processes.
It was a refreshing trend echoed by the industry leading firms that will be around for a while, and misunderstood by the many firms we saw here that are regrettably shrinking and dying (remember my blog “evolve or die”.) It couldn’t have been easier identifying the right partners and manufacturers to work with – just by looking at the exhibitor firms that are growing as opposed to the ones that are shrinking. The new clarity from end-users stating their needs is starkly simple and refreshing:
- Stop building custom solutions when we don’t need them
- Stop charging me for custom programming I really don’t need
- Stop treating my AV rooms like they are an island – they are part of my whole Unified Communications plan, and if you don’t understand how that works step aside so we can speak with those who do
- Help me choose solutions that my users will be happy with, not ones I have to teach them how to and convince them to use
- Stop telling me about how great the new technology is. If it was really great it would be invisible in the process of human communications.
- I’ve grown-up in this relationship with you Mr. AV guy. Change to meet my needs and stop asking me to change my user’s habits to meet your ancient, over-complicated and over-expensive business model.
We will look back at InfoComm 2014 as a turning point in our industry – when people started seeing the naked emperors for the first time, marking the beginning of the end of the AV world as it was and the birth of the user-experience-centric communications world of the future. It was great to see InfoComm firmly establishing itself as the venue to carry-forth this message for years to come.
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This article was written by David Danto and contains solely his own, personal opinions. David has over three decades 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, develop a future-proof collaboration strategy for internal use, or if you would like his help developing solid, user-focused go-to-market strategies for your collaboration product or service.
All images and links provided above as reference under prevailing fair use statutes. Leave a Comment
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My InfoComm 2014 Impressions
By Norbert Hildebrand DisplaySearch
Here we are. InfoComm 2014 is basically over and all the polished product presentations are being broken down and shipped back to the office. The main event for the Pro AV industry is closing their doors on Friday and the excitement of the last three days gives way to ‘business as usual’ until the next exhibition somewhere else.
We are running around making videos and writing about the most intriguing highlights of each company. As we do so, we set up an appointment at the booth and meet with the marketing and product specialists to discuss their latest and greatest news about their respective products and services.
Of course the topics of the conversation depends on the particular company, but it typically starts with me asking “What is new for InfoComm this year?” Of course the answers vary widely depending on the field the company is working in, but they always have something they want announce or present to the public.
After many discussions themes starts to emerge from those meetings that exist across many different product lines. One of these messages for me at InfoComm 2014 is 4K.
Almost no meeting goes by where there is not some kind of focus on 4K technology. The holy grail for this year seems to be the 4K 60Hz video capability. With very few 4K displays in the market right now and even less real 4K content being used in Pro AV now, we are looking at a trend that will sweep through the Pro AV industry in the coming years.
4K displays are used for digital signage, commercial TVs, interactive touch enabled display, desktop monitors, projectors, LED walls, LCD walls and rear projection cubes. A display not saying 4K or UHD in bold letters on top may just be considered a value product now.
This 4K theme continues thought the supporting ecosystem as well. 4K switches, scalers and any other component you can imagine are already 4K ready. Of course the question of connectivity is still up in the air, with most manufacturers pointing to HDMI 2 or Display Port 1.2 for the connections at the display level.
With the 4K theme, we also see a growth spurt hitting the commercial LCDs. Where 60″ to 70″ sizes where the main topic last year the upper end has shifted to 84″ and 98″. At the same time smaller displays with 4K resolution are also offered for desktop applications. These are aimed at 4K workflow applications and installations where the high resolution is paramount. 4K displays in the 30″ range were shown by several manufacturers.
In wall applications, 4K was always readily available, every 2×2 installation of full HD panels was a 4K display afterall. With the advent of 4K single panels, the focus shifts towards 8K and beyond already. From a more practical standpoint, 4K displays will drive the availability of 4K content and this will make 4K video walls more attractive as well.
Any way you look at it, the average pixel number per screen will be growing in the Pro AV field, as these new displays are entering the market. This will require an upgrade to the existing infrastructure to take full advantage of the now available higher image quality. Leave a Comment
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InfoComm Breaks All-Time Attendance Record
Last week’s InfoComm 2014 in Las Vegas was visited by 37,048 attendees from more than 114 countries and this represents a 5.5 percent increase in attendance over InfoComm 2013 that was in Orlando, Fla.
We had more than 25 reporters there and covered the show with over 1,300 videos, some 200 or so news stories and blogs and podcasts. We even tweeted over 1200 times. We’ve set up a dedicated InfoComm microsite here.
More than 5,700 seats were filled at InfoComm University sessions, which provided practical training and attracted the industry’s best and brightest instructors and students. Attendees come to InfoComm for the diversity of courses on topics ranging from acoustics to videoconferencing. Popular courses included BYODs: The New Reality, The Future of Video Collaboration, CTS Prep, Designing Classrooms and 4K is Here: Are You Ready For It? With two-thirds of all of the education sessions being new, technology managers flocked to the inaugural InfoComm’s Solutions Summits on UCC and Digital Signage, attracting more than 500 participants.
There were 947 exhibitors participating at InfoComm this year. Exhibitors occupied more than 490,000 net square feet of exhibit and special events space.
Here’s a video that we shot on-site, that gives you a taste of the show and what it was like to attend. Leave a Comment
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Lab.gruppen Adds D Series At InfoComm, Lab.gruppen introduced the D Series, its new flagship install-dedicated four-channel DSP amplifier platform. The D Series platform is available in two versions — one featuring Lake, the other featuring Tesira by Biamp Systems — each offering unique capabilities and advantages. The Lake variant offers Lake Processing DSP with analog, AES and a Dual-redundant Dante network solution, supported by the development of new custom software to provide extensive integration potential with most key systems manufacturers. The Tesira variant of D Series is a new collaboration between Lab.gruppen and Biamp Systems, resulting in dedicated models equipped with Tesira DSP and AVB audio and control. Both versions are available in three power configurations (8,000 watts, 12,000 watts and 20,000 watts total power output).
With the D Series, Lab.gruppen has also debuted its Rational Power Management (RPM) technology. Unlike other amplifiers where ‘flexibility’ often involves compromise (eg. reducing channel count or reducing the total power), the company says that RPM allows flexible power allocation across all channels to ensure the most efficient and rational use of total amplifier inventory. With RPM, 5,000 watts can be output on any single channel, leaving remaining power available to be allocated to other channels.
The D-Series is expected to ship mid-summer. More information is here. Leave a Comment
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Sound Devices Intros 970 Audio-Only Rackmount Solution Sound Devices’ new 970 is its first-ever dedicated audio-only rack-mounted solution, which has 64 channels of Dante and MADI. The half-rack, 2U device is aimed at live events such as concerts and sports recording, corporate events, houses of worship (HOW), studio and mobile production, as well as theater and museum presentations.
Sound Devices 970 records 64 channels of monophonic or polyphonic 24-bit WAV files from any of its 144 available inputs. Inputs available include 64 channels of Ethernet-based Dante, 64 channels of optical or coaxial MADI, eight channels of line-level analog and eight channels of AES digital. The 970 is a powerful tool for professionals who require a significant number of audio channels. Any input can be assigned to any track. In addition, 32-track recording at 96 kHz is supported.
The 970 records to any of four attached drives, which include two front-panel drive bays and two rear-panel e-SATA connected drives. Material can be recorded to multiple drives simultaneously or sequentially. This eliminates time-consuming post-record copying and allows for continuous long-form, high-track count recordings.
The Sound Devices 970 features an embedded Web-based control panel for machine transport and setup control over Ethernet-based networks as well as file transfer over the data network with SMB. In mission-critical audio-over-IP AV installations, where hundreds of audio channels are distributed between zones, setting up a redundant network to protect against loss of audio due to network failure provides peace of mind. The ability to have one drive transferring files over Ethernet, while another continues recording, offers significant production time savings. Corporate, HOW, theater and museum presentation videos that are created, edited and rendered remotely can be transferred directly to the venue.
File metadata editing of scene name, take name, notes, track names and reel folders can be done during, before and after recording across all drives. In addition to RS-422 and GPIO control, the unit also allows for format conversion between analog, AES digital, MADI and Dante, acting as a bridge and routing matrix between these types of audio I/O.
Sound Devices 970 is designed with a large five-inch screen for metering of up to 64 tracks and for fast and intuitive menu control. It also features the Sound Devices proprietary PowerSafe technology. PowerSafe circuitry has a built-in 10-second power reserve. In the event of power loss, the unit continues to operate for up to 10 seconds, then stops any file operation and shuts down. This ensures that a complete power loss has no effect on the recording. In addition, the 970 features FileSafe, which automatically detects and repairs corrupted file headers when drives are mounted. This occurs when a drive is inadvertently removed during recording, with the 970, simply reinsert the drive and it automatically repairs its files.
With its built-in, rock-steady Ambient Recording Lockit time-code technology, the 970 is well-suited to operate as a master clock. It can also slave or be jammed to any other time-code source. All common production time-code rates and modes are supported. The 970 also supports external synchronization from word clock, MADI or AES. To simplify the connection of multiple digital inputs, SRCs are available for all MADI, Dante or AES inputs.
All the details are here. Leave a Comment
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HARMAN’s Crown Debuts Its XLC Series Power Amplifiers Featuring DriveCore Technology at InfoComm 2014 HARMAN’s Crown Audio today announced the introduction of its XLC Series XLC2800 and XLC2500 Power Amplifiers, two cost-effective, two-channel models that offer a host of useful features for installed sound applications. The new amplifiers incorporate proprietary DriveCore technology for high efficiency with lighter weight.
The XLC2800 and XLC2500 can operate into impedances from 8 ohms to 2 ohms using stereo, parallel or bridged mono outputs. Although extremely powerful at 775 watts and 500 watts per channel respectively (at 4 ohms; 2400 watts and 1550 watt into 4 ohms in bridged mode), both amplifiers are lightweight and measure only 2U rack spaces high.
Both models feature HARMAN’s proprietary DriveCore amplifier IC chip, which combines the amplifier driver stage into the power output stage along with additional audio-signal functions — yet is about the size of a postage stamp.
Designed for easy installation, the XLC2800 and XLC2500 feature Power, Signal, Clip and Fault indicators and limited front panel control. The XLC series is contractor friendly with input/output connectors, and supports parallel connections to multiple speakers, an advantage in applications where available amplifier channels are limited. XLC Series amplifiers also feature rear-panel volume controls for each channel.
The Crown XLC Series XLC2800 and XLC2500 Power Amplifiers are available immediately and specs are here. Leave a Comment
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DPA Microphones Unveils Latest
d:screet Miniature Solutions at InfoComm 2014 DPA Microphones just launched its new d:screet Omnidirectional Miniature Necklace Microphone at InfoComm 2014.
Especially useful for instances when mounting and consistent audio output are the primary requirements, the d:screet Necklace Mic is ideal for quick costume changes. Featuring DPA’s legendary d:screet 4061 Omnidirectional Miniature Capsule in a soft rubber necklace, the d:screet Necklace Mic offers fast, repeatable, “do-it-yourself” mounting and is designed specifically for use by non-technicians. It is available in black, white and brown and in lengths of either 18.3 or 20.9 inches.
During the show, the company is presenting at is booth two options that address these needs. Incorporated on all d:screet Miniature Microphones, the robust strain relief version ensures that people who are not used to handling miniatures can feel reassured by the increased reliability. The heavy-duty 4060 and 4061 microphones, which are ideal for people who require even more enhanced security and for whom the visual appeal is of less importance, are perfect for placement in rigorous production situations, such as incorporated into a combat suit for a fight scene or under a horse saddle in a period piece. It features a stainless steel housing, sturdy cable relief and a thicker .08-inch cable. Both enhanced versions are exceptionally durable and ideally suited to the rigors of various productions.
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HARMAN’s JBL Professional Adds New Control 45C/TAdding to its Control Contractor Series, HARMAN’s JBL Professional has introduced the Control 45C/T coaxial ceiling loudspeaker, a two-way, 5.25-inch loudspeaker that offers what JBL says is “extremely consistent” 120-degree broadband pattern control featuring the company’s Radiation Boundary Integrator (RBI) technology.
The Control 45C/T is an in-ceiling professional loudspeaker designed for environments that can benefit from extremely wide bandwidth and very consistent coverage from a speaker with a small footprint. JBL says the tweeter sound is “well-controlled by a large waveguide,” while the low-frequency sound projects through specially designed apertures in the RBI. This design allows for a seamless integration of coverage over a wide bandwidth from coaxially- mounted drivers. The result is that the sound character is extremely consistent throughout the listening space with little variation from location to location.
The large backcan on the Control 45C/T, along with the low-frequency driver design, provides extended bass response for a warm full-bodied tone. The system’s 5.25-inch woofer features a polypropylene cone and pure butyl- rubber surround for long life. The coaxially mounted 0.75-inch soft dome features ferro-fluid cooling for enhanced power handling and reduced power compression.
The Control 45C/T is switchable for use as either an 8-ohm low-impedance speaker, or as part of a 70V/100V distributed loudspeaker system.
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Atlas Intros DT Series Drop Ceiling Tile Speaker PackagesAtlas Sound has introduced three new drop tile ceiling speaker packages, the DT22, DT21 and DT6. Each package is designed to be easy for integrators to install as the speaker, tile, and back can ship as one complete unit.
The DT22 is an 8″ speaker with 25V/70.7V transformer preassembled with 2′ x 2′ ceiling tile. The DT22 uses a proven Atlas Sound 8″ speaker design to deliver exceptional intelligibility and convenience. The unit features 105-degree dispersion and works with standard 2′ x 4′ ceiling tiles. The DT21 uses the same design as the DT22 but with a 1′ x 2′ ceiling tile assembly.
The DT6 is a high efficiency, 3″ speaker with integrated 25V/70.7V transformer with a 6″ x 2′ ceiling tile. This unit features 130-degree dispersion and does fit select Armstrong brand ceilings. All of the DT models include all hardware for mounting. All ceiling tile components are constructed using durable cold rolled steel and finished in white epoxy.
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HARMAN’s dbx Debuts Its AFS2 Advanced Feedback Suppression ProcessorHARMAN’s dbx last week announced the introduction of its AFS2 Advanced Feedback Suppression Processor, designed to completely eliminate feedback from a PA system. The AFS2 is aimed at bands, DJs, live sound and fixed installation applications and offers a host of upgraded features including a Wizard auto-setup function, a completely re-designed Advanced Feedback Suppression module, and a large LCD display.
Successor to the popular AFS224, the AFS2 provides state-of-the-art feedback elimination, yet is simple to use, thanks to its one-button Wizard function that automates key setup parameters and walks the user through the configuration process. The AFS2 offers a full LCD display and 24 LED meters per channel for setup and monitoring. The AFS2 can be added to a system in minutes, thanks to its easy rear-panel connectivity and its optimized front panel.
The AFS2’s all-new DSP module takes dbx Advanced Feedback Suppression (AFS) to an entirely new level. This new module provides for faster and more focused filter sets in both fixed and live mode. While 10- and 12-filter feedback-elimination processors are commonplace, the dedicated processor in the AFS2 provides up to 24 programmable filters per channel with filter Qs up to 1/80 of an octave. This level of extreme precision, previously available only in high-end processors, enables the AFS2 to zero in on the exact frequencies needed to attenuate feedback. The AFS2 offers application-specific filter types including Speech and Music Low, Medium and High.
The AFS2 offers selectable Live and Fixed (installed sound) filter modes, selectable filter lift times, live filter lift and more, all of which are available via the intuitive front panel user interface. The AFS2 can be used in either stereo or dual independent channel mode. It includes XLR and TRS inputs and outputs and a USB jack to enable firmware updates when they become available.
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SMART Kapp Offers Replacement for the Dry Erase Board SMART Technologies used InfoComm to launch SMART kapp, a new digital capture board that has the easiness of a dry erase board combined with advanced collaboration features.
While SMART claims that kapp is just as easy and intuitive to use as a dry-erase board, it allows users to write, draw, diagram and brainstorm using an ink marker, just as they would with a dry-erase board. But with SMART kapp, co-workers and clients can follow the process in real-time, where everything appears on their digital devices. The work is simply saved with SMART’s software and then as a final product as PDFs or JPEGs and then easily shared with anyone, anywhere, instantly.
The secret to being able to capture, save and share content is in the SMART kapp app. Currently available as a free download for iOS and Android users (with Windows mobile support coming soon), the SMART kapp app enables users to pair their tablets or smartphones to a SMART kapp board with a scan of its unique QR code or a tap of its NFC tag. The app activates live web-sharing with up to five users, access to the snapshot library, PDF and JPEG save and share, and Evernote. Later this year, SMART will launch subscription services within the app which open up advanced features for cloud collaboration. It will include live web sharing with PIN protection, a large number of concurrent web viewers, and advanced search and index tools to get even more out of SMART kapp snapshots.
SMART kapp will list for $899 MSRP for a 42” SMART kapp (a larger size board will be available later in the year) and complete specs are here. Leave a Comment
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Barco Introduces the ClickShare Management Suite
Barco has introduced a new piece of software called the ClickShare Management Suite. This new Web-based tool allows administrators to manage the entire fleet of ClickShare units throughout the enterprise from a central position. Features include performing or scheduling updates, consulting a range of information, and making sure all Base Units perform optimally.
Barco’s ClickShare now has more than 20,000 units installed worldwide, so a new challenge is managing large-scale deployments, especially when placed in a large number of buildings or locations within a single organization. Depending on the size of a company’s ClickShare fleet, keeping track of, updating or maintaining all the Base Units and Buttons manually can cause significant workload for the IT staff. To deal with this issue, Barco is introducing the ClickShare Management Suite, a new tool – available for free download from the Barco website – that allows administrators to keep all Base Units performing in optimal condition, without having to leave their desks.
After installing the software on a (virtual) Linux server, the ClickShare Management Suite program can be used from any location via a web browser, allowing the units’ health status to be checked, and a number of management tasks to be performed, remotely. All ClickShare Base Units can be updated with new firmware versions in one go — and these can be installed directly, or scheduled for installation outside office hours to prevent meeting downtime. Furthermore, the Base Units can be assigned to different locations and users to keep things organized and ensure optimum usability.
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Christie Intros All-New Velvet Indoor LED Tiles
Christie is expanding its line of high brightness tiled displays with the introduction of the Christie Velvet line of built-to-order, high resolution indoor LED panels. Marketed as seamless to integrate and available in various pixel pitches, Christie’s LED tiles are aimed at indoor applications such as retail, casinos, museums, corporate lobbies and control room environments, where 24/7/365 reliability is required.
Depending on customers’ needs, Christie Velvet LED displays can be mounted in a variety of orientations, including curved, suspended from ceilings and structures or connected to each other to create a seamless array.
Christie Velvet features:
- Solutions configured according to needs
- Quick budgetary design and quote
- Trusted pre/post sales service and support
- Certified solid state illumination LEDs available in 1.875-millimeter, 2.5-millimeter, 3-millimeter and 4-millimeter pixel pitches
- 1,200 Hz refresh rate, 1,000 nits brightness
- Front serviceable design (3mm and 4mm models)
- Wide-viewing angles (1,600), darker blacks and exceptional high color fidelity
- Ability for end-user to create large seamless digital canvases
- High performance and 24/7/365 reliability
- Turnkey solution with Christie’s image processing and content management software
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Barco LiveDots Launches Lower Cost LED screens for Retail and Advertising
Barco LiveDots’s newest LED display range is designed for entry-level outdoor branding and advertising applications. The cutting-edge T platform – currently available with 8 and 10 millimeter pixel pitch – features a unique design that eliminates the need for a custom-calibrated secondary steel structure which is required for conventional tile-based LED screens. Built on self-supporting and scalable cabinets, the T8 and T10 can be directly fastened onto the main attachment points, which significantly cuts the cost of installation and the steel structure. Next to offering outstanding image quality, the T-series also comes with the revolutionary Infinipix image processing platform. Infinipix excels in pixel bandwidth performance, and combines this with fully cloud-based monitoring, control and automated diagnostics.
A limited set of components allows users to build modular cabinets of any size – consisting of up to eight by five LED modules, with each module measuring 40 by 40 centimeter. As the cabinets are directly attached onto the main structure, there is no need for additional connecting frames or secondary steel structures that are required for traditional installations. Measuring less than 140mm in depth and fully made of aluminum, the slim and lightweight displays can be hung to any wall and internal components and cables can easily be accessed from the front as well as the back, without tools. This design offers installation and construction companies more flexibility to build the specific size they need and speed up installation times. System integrators who have followed Barco’s T-series certification program will be empowered to construct the cabinets from a limited set of core components. Barco has already opened enrollment for the T-series certification program.
Together with the new T-series, Barco introduces a unique LED image processing platform, Infinipix. Based on fiber or copper 1G or 10G IP technology, the Infinipix technology provides higher bandwidth, bit depth and refresh rates to drive larger screens with a single processor. Built around Barco’s proprietary Athena scaler, InfinipixTM scales and crops any image source from the HDMI 1.4 and SDI 3G inputs without artifacts. Standard network cables and integrated fiber cages for long cable runs at an affordable price point are just a few other advantages of the Infinipix hardware platform.
The future-proof Infinipix platform provides a web-based interface that enables display configuration, control and monitoring – anywhere, anytime, and from any device. As the system is based on HTML5, devices running Windows, Mac OS, and Linux operating systems, or the mobile iOS, Windows Phone and Android can be used to control the LED displays, both on-site and off-site. And its straightforward user interface offers infinite possibilities to suit every need. The system supports SNMP to export monitoring data, but it sends automatic failure alerts and status notifications as well, to minimize operational risk.
Thanks to their typhoon test, IP rating, and outdoor SMD technology, the T8 and T10 are ideally suited for fixed installation in 24/7 outdoor retail and advertising applications. The Barco typhoon test certificate – greatly exceeding standard IP test ratings – ensures truly reliable displays that meet the demands of permanent outdoor use and withstand the most severe weather conditions. This testing program, developed in-house, not only evaluates the effect of water and dust (the basis for the IP rating) on the LED display, it also takes the impact of UV rays, varying temperatures, wind load and vibrations into account.
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Barco Adds Compact and High-Res Projectors for Attractions, Data Visualization and Collaboration
Barco has expanded its single-chip DLP projector line-up to now include familiar F50 Panorama but added WUXGA and Full HD models aimed at exhibitions and high-end visitor attractions to corporate collaboration suites, 24/7 control rooms and big data analytics labs. The new F50 range offers a unique high resolution and active 3D stereo at higher frame rates in a small, quiet unit, ideal for professional-class venues where a powerful, yet unobtrusive visualization solution is needed.
The Panorama (2,560×1,080), WUXGA (1,920×1,200), and Full HD (1,920×1,080) models join Barco’s existing F50 WQXGA (2,560×1,600) projector, and each accommodates four different digital input sources including Display Port and HDBaseT for compatibility with the latest sources, eliminating the need for scaling while putting the highest resolution image on screen. The projector also comes with a wide range of expansion modules and high-performance lenses.
The F50 is integrated with RealColor color management and can handle refresh rates up to 120Hz for all resolutions up to 2,560×1,600 ensures consistent performance with the added benefit of low noise levels.
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Hitachi Intros Four New Ultra Short-Throw Projectors
Hitachi today introduced its CP-AX2503, CP-AX3503, CP-AW2503 and CP-AW3003 Ultra Short Throw projectors — four high-performance models that are ideally suited for delivering large images in limited spaces. The new 3LCD projectors offer improved image quality, flexible connectivity including powered focus, and wireless networking plus a host of useful convenience features.
The CP-AX2503 and CP-AW2503 deliver 2,700 color and white light ouput with XGA and WXGA resolution, respectively, while the CP-AX3503 and CP-AW3003 offer 3,300 and 3,600 color and white light output with XGA and WXGA resolution, respectively. All four projectors include Hitachi’s High Dynamic Contrast Range feature that provides a unique ability to alter contrast when ambient light is present and yet preserve the integrity of the image. Additionally, Hitachi’s exclusive Accentualizer technology enhances sharpness, gloss and shadow detail for more realistic image quality while providing greater depth of field.
All four models can be used in tabletop mode, or wall mounted. All provide a full complement of inputs including two HDMI inputs, two computer HD-15 inputs, three USB inputs for use with a USB memory stick, wireless adapter or mouse plus component, composite video, audio and mic A/V jacks. All the projectors have computer monitor and audio outputs. In addition, all four models have RS232C and RJ-45 Ethernet ports. An optional wireless adapter lets users connect their computer to the projectors via a wireless network. The projectors’ PC-less presentation feature enables users to project images directly from a USB thumb drive, eliminating the need to connect a computer.
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Epson Expands Large Venue and Meeting Room Projector Line Today, Epson significantly expanded its lineup of corporate and large venue projection solutions with three new announcements:
BrightLink Pro-Series: The BrightLink Pro 1430Wi and 1420Wi transform any flat surface, such into digital whiteboards and interactive spaces by using built-in tools that don’t require a computer or software. The new series feature a new Whiteboard Sharing Tool that allows up to 15 participants to join a whiteboarding session directly from any mobile device with a web browser or from another BrightLink Pro – without using a software or app.PowerLite Pro Z-Series: Comprised of nine new models, the series offers high resolution, more powerful performance features and advanced display capabilities for virtually any venue including corporate, house of worship, rental and staging, galleries, auditoriums, and digital signage. These new installation projectors deliver up to 11,000 lumens of color brightness and 11,000 lumens white brightness, up to WUXGA resolution with native full HD 1080p support, HDBaseT connectivity, and portrait mode projection.
PowerLite 1900-Series: Designed for boardrooms, lecture halls and houses of worship, the PowerLite 1900-Series provide outstanding image quality, a wide range of connectivity options and up to WUXGA resolution with native full HD 1080p support. In addition, two of the new models feature wireless full HD video transfer via Intel WiDi and Android Miracast, as well as two HDMI ports, one with MHL (Mobile High-Definition Link) for connecting multiple digital devices. Leave a Comment
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Hitachi Adds Two New Interactive Projectors Hitachi America introduced two new interactive projector models, the Hitachi CP-TW3003 and CP-TW2503. Both are interactive models that feature an ultra-short throw design and are aimed at the K-12, higher education and corporate presentation markets. So-called “new generation interactive features” include multiple pen capability, auto-calibration, PC-less drawing, and multi-display interactive use. Additionally, a suite of advanced features normally found only on the higher end models includes High Dynamic Contrast Range (HDCR), two HDMI ports, and Hitachi’s original technology Accentualizer that allows the projected image to appear more real by enhancing sharpness, gloss and shade. Plus, Hitachi’s Intelligent Eco and Saver Modes with ImageCare claim to combine optimal picture performance with energy-savings for a lower total cost of ownership.
The CP-TW3003 features 3,300 lumens of brightness, while the CP-TW2503 offers 2,700 lumens, both models offer three USB inputs for use with a USB memory stick, wireless adapter or mouse plus component, composite video, audio and mic A/V jacks. Both projectors have computer monitor and audio outputs. In addition, they have RS-232C and RJ-45 Ethernet ports. An optional wireless adapter lets users connect their computer to the projectors via a wireless network. The projectors’ PC-less presentation feature enables users to project images directly from a USB thumb drive, eliminating the need to connect a computer.
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Panasonic Announces Plethora of AV Gear at InfoComm
At InfoComm 2014, Panasonic announced the launch of new projectors, displays and accessories.
HD Video Acquisition and Production Solutions – Panasonic showcased several video production offerings here, including a new professional AVCCAM HD handheld camcorder, the company’s most advanced production switcher to date, and its first P2 HD handheld camcorder with AVC-ULTRA recording.
- The AG-AC90A AVCCAM HD Handheld Camcorder — Significant improvements over the AC90A’s predecessor include two new recording options — a PM mode (1280×720, 8Mbps) supporting sports analysis applications and a CS mode (720×480, 3.5Mbps) for cloud service utilization. Other enhancements comprise the ability to copy content from one SD card to another, a date and time superimpose function and Freeze Frame (still picture) on video out during shooting position change. Current AC90 owners will be able to access these new features via a free firmware upgrade.
- The AV-HS6000 2 M/E Live Switcher — The HS6000 is a powerful, cost-effective 2 M/E switcher with 32 HD-SDI plus two DVI-D inputs, 16 HD-SDI outputs, 16 keyers, four independent MultiViewers, expandable clip storage, a Web server and many other advanced features. The new switcher is configurable to match an expanded slate of production needs.
- The AJPX270 P2 HD Handheld Camcorder — The PX270, Panasonic’s first P2 HD handheld camcorder with AVC-ULTRA recording, combines the high quality and incredible efficiency of low bit rate recording and the flexibility of 3G/4G/LTE wireless mobility. The five-pound PX270 provides all the key functionality of Panasonic’s high-end, shoulder-mount camcorder and also features newly-developed high-sensitivity, low-noise 1/3” 3-MOS imagers to produce stunning pictures, even in low light conditions.
Professional Displays and Digital Signage — The introductions included 4K professional displays as well as introduce a trio of new displays.
- TH-55LFV70 LED Video Wall Display — With a 0.14” (3.5mm) bezel and 700cd/m² brightness, the 55” display creates nearly seamless, vivid images across multiple displays making it ideal for a multitude of digital signage and command & control applications. It features flexible installation and maintenance with DIGITAL LINK, a technology based on HDBaseT™ technology, as well as a “Failover and Failback” function which maintains continuous signal distribution even when some inputs are accidentally disrupted.
- TH-47LFX6N Professional Outdoor LED display — The IP55-rated 47” TH-47LFX6N operates efficiently in harsh environmental conditions such as heat, humidity and extreme cold, making it ideal for outdoor digital signage applications. The display features a full 1,200 cd/m2 of brightness and a wide IPS viewing angle for high visibility even in direct sunlight from nearly any angle.
- LFE7 Series — Previously only available as a 65” model, the LFE7 backlit LED Series adds the 50” TH-50LFE7 and 42” TH-42LFE7 to its lineup. These professional LED displays answer a market need for high quality displays at a competitive price for basic digital signage and mid-sized conference room applications. These thin bezel displays, with 350 cd/m2 of brightness, bring a sleek look and a number of expandability options for professional use.
Projectors for Venues Large and Small – Panasonic also announced several new projectors and lenses at InfoComm 2014, including:
- PT-VZ570 Series — The PT-VZ570 Series is an ultra light-weight, high-brightness WUXGA portable LCD projector. With a high contrast ratio of 5,000:1 and daylight view technology, the PT-VZ570 Series is able to create sharp, detailed images in well-lit classrooms and meeting spaces, all while keeping noise level down. Projectors in the series range from 4,500-5,500 lumens, and reduce total cost of ownership for business and educational institutions with up to 7,000 hours of maintenance-free operation.
- PT-EZ580 Projector and ET-ELW22 Lens — Designed with mid-sized classrooms and corporate boardrooms in mind, the PT-EZ580 is a high brightness, 5,000-6,200 lumen LCD projector. The PT-EZ580 also comes with a new optional short throw zoom lens, the ET-ELW22 lens, which facilitates flexible installation in limited spaces.
- ET-D75LE90 Lens — With its ability to maximize tight spaces yet retain a super-high brightness, this new lens is ideal for a variety of large venues, such as theaters, houses of worship, auditoriums and museums. The ultra short throw lens is built for 3-chip DLP 5K+ lumen projectors, such as the flagship 20,000 lumen PT-DZ21K Series. The ET-D75LE90 lens enables 200” diagonal image projection at a throw distance of just five feet from the screen.
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Crestron Intros 4K DM Receiver
Crestron’s new HDBaseT compliant DM-RMC-4K-100-C-1G is a signal interface and control solution for a single HD or 4K display device in a DM system. A single cable connects the DM-RMC-4K-100-C-1G to a DM switcher or transmitter, or to an HDBaseT source, transporting video, audio, control, networking and power signals all through one category cable. Crestron says a single HDMI output port supports video at resolutions up to 4K (4096×2160). The DM-RMC-4K-100-C-1G can be gang-mounted beside an Ethernet jack or an electrical outlet equipped with proper dividers. Multiple receivers can be mounted in the wall all around the room and in 4″-deep floor boxes.
The DM-RMC-4K-100-C-1G includes built-in RS-232 and IR control ports to allow programmable control of the connected display device. It also provides an alternative to conventional control methods by harnessing the CEC (Consumer Electronics Control) signal embedded in HDMI. Through its connection to the control system, it also provides a gateway for controlling the display device right through the HDMI connection, potentially eliminating the need for any dedicated control wires or IR emitters.
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AMX Debuts Smaller Digital Switchers
AMX’s new Solecis Switchers are digital switchers designed for small/huddle spaces. By integrating an AV switcher, a distance transport transmitter and control inputs that enable switching without the need for an external controller, Solecis addresses the needs of many meeting scenarios. Simple interface options including an AMX HydraPort toggle button or a Keypad. And they are easily mounted under conference room tables or in lecterns.
Solecis Digital Switchers were also designed to easily integrate into larger, more complex systems. All models include dual outputs; both an HDMI output for a local display, and an AMX DXLink distance transport output for a remote display. When integrated with an Enova DVX All-In-One Presentation Switcher or Enova DGX Digital Media Switcher, participants can collaborate using their local HDMI display and also present to a classroom display over the DXLink output.
Solecis is available in three models to support varying room requirements and device formats. The 5×1 Multi-Format Digital Switcher includes both HDMI and VGA inputs and is perfectly suited to accommodate long tables with AV connection points at either end. The 4×1 and 8×1 HDMI models are great choices where digital video formats are paramount. All Solecis Switchers are HDCP compliant and support AMX InstaGatePro technology for worry-free switching of copy protected sources. They also all include a multi-port Ethernet switch to easily distribute network connectivity at the table.
The 5×1 Multi-Format Solecis Digital Switchers are expected to ship in the U.S. in December 2014 and globally in March 2015. The 4×1 and 8×1 models will begin shipping in Q1 2015.
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Crestron Intros New FlipTop
Crestron’s new FlipTop Touch Screen Control System (FT-TSC600) works with a 3-Series control system and includes an integrated 5-inch TSW touch screen. In addition, the FT-TSC600 provides connectivity, cable management, and control in a tabletop design.
Recessed when not in use, the FT-TSC600 provides a hidden solution for accessing cables, connectors, power outlets, and room contral (the 5” color touch screen is integrated in to the top of the FlipTop. Store cables neatly out of sight when not in use. And, as with all FlipTop models, the FT-TSC600 is modular and can be customized to provide every type of cabling and connection you might want at your conference table, from AV and network to power. All cables retract into the FlipTop compartment, and the touch screen can be hidden away safely when not in use. All FlipTop models are available in black anodized or brushed aluminum finishes.
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Extron Introduces DTP Twisted Pair Extenders for DisplayPort
Extron’s new DTP DP 230 and DTP DP 330 are transmitter and receiver sets for transmission of DisplayPort, audio and bidirectional RS232 and IR signals over a shielded CATx shielded twisted pair cable. The DTP DP 230 extends signals up to 230 feet (70 meters), while the DTP DP 330 extends signals up to 330 feet (100 meters). Both DTP DP models are specifically designed to incorporate higher resolution DisplayPort (Mac computers, etc) with embedded audio into Extron DTP Systems. They support computer-video to 2560×1600, 1080p/60 Deep Color and 4K resolutions. The DTP DP 230 and DTP DP 330 also accept analog stereo audio signals for simultaneous transmission over the same shielded twisted pair cable. The compact enclosure size and remote power capability make the DTP DP models ideal for discreet placement in lecterns, beneath tables, behind flat-panel displays, or wherever needed to meet application requirements.
The DTP DP 230 and DTP DP 330 streamline integration by supporting bidirectional RS-232 and IR pass-through for AV device control at remote locations. And, a single external power supply can be used to remotely power the transmitter or receiver over the twisted pair cable. DTP DP receiver models support Type 2 dual-mode DisplayPort, which allows source signals to be sent to a 4K-capable HDMI or DVI device with an appropriate adapter. DTP DP transmitter models offer an HDBaseT output mode that provides the additional integration convenience of a twisted pair output that can send video and embedded audio, plus bidirectional control signals to any HDBaseT-enabled display.
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AMX Adds Screen Mirroring and Web Conferencing to Enzo
At InfoComm 2014, AMX announced new enhancements to its Enzo Content Sharing and Conferencing Platform including the addition of screen mirroring of laptop and mobile device content. It also previewed upcoming support for web conferencing and simplified launching of Enzo sessions right from a touch panel or keypad.
Enzo was designed as an application-based platform to give meeting attendees choices in deciding how they want to present and share content in meetings. In addition to retrieving content from cloud-based storage, the Web or a local USB drive, meeting participants are now able to instantly screen mirror content from their laptop (Windows/Mac OS X), smartphone or tablet.
Enzo was also designed to enable collaboration and the addition of web conferencing adds that capability. By simply plugging in an AMX Sereno Video Conferencing Camera, which also debuted at InfoComm 2014, meeting attendees can instantly engage in web conferences using their choice of Enzo-driven web conferencing applications, including support for Skype and Microsoft Lync conferencing. AMX says that because Enzo is a flexible application-based platform, additional web conferencing applications will be added in the future.
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Extron Ships DTP CrossPoint 84
Extron is shipping the DTP CrossPoint 84 — a system in one box, including a 4K matrix switcher, two built-in independent scalers, integrated DTP and XTP signal extension, a mono or stereo amplifier, audio DSP capabilities and an advanced control processor that is expandable.
The DTP CrossPoint 84 is 4K-capable for managing both sources and displays. And, additional DTP twisted pair inputs and outputs provide flexibility in how and where AV and control need to be distributed. They can be used to connect to any display with an HDBaseT input, or tie into a centralized, facility-wide XTP System to add local room-based AV systems. A scaler is paired to each of the two DTP outputs, so that incoming source signals can be optimized to deliver the highest quality image content for display. The DTP CrossPoint 84 also includes Extron EDID Minder, Key Minder, and SpeedSwitch for easy integration of sources and displays.
The integrated audio DSP technology in the DTP CrossPoint 84 is based on the same Extron ProDSP technology in the DMP 128 and DMP 64 digital signal processors. Integrators can customize system designs and mixes any way desired, with fully configurable EQ, filters, dynamics, extensive matrix mixing options, and so much more. A unique digital audio expansion port links the internal DSP to a DMP 128 for additional inputs and outputs for supporting a large number of microphones or speaker destinations, or to add AEC to a conferencing system. The DTP CrossPoint 84 can also be linked into a DMP 128 on a Dante network for even greater system expansion possibilities. In addition to the built-in DSP, a built-in mono or stereo 100 watt amplifier is included, featuring the same Extron core technologies found in the ENERGY STAR qualified XTRA Series.
The DTP CrossPoint 84 features a built-in Extron IP Link Pro control processor — identical to the one in the IPCP Pro 350 control processor. The DTP CrossPoint 84 allows complete, customizable control of an entire AV system, including all source devices and displays, plus room functions.
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