Volume 12, Issue 6 — March 26, 2014
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Industry News
Projection Audio Control & Signal Processing Digital Signage Unified Collaborative Conferencing Displays Cables, Cases, Furniture, Mounts, Racks, Screens & Accessories
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Unified Everything?
By Joel Rollins rAVe Columnist
As some of you will know, I recently attended ISE 2014 in Amsterdam with the rAVe team. We spent a very long week seeing and documenting the entire show, and afterward Gary and I reported on what we thought the major news and themes of the show were.
Gary and I (as usual) had somewhat differing opinions, but one of the overall ideas we agreed on was that unified communications (UC) was one of the most significant themes for the show. Nearly every piece of electronics was described in the light of its role within UC; even furniture was being described as part of a UC environment. In addition to the large number of new products being introduced for UC, electronics that have been on the market for years were all outfitted with racks of new literature describing them as unified communications devices.
But what are we really talking about?
Wikipedia defines it this way: “Unified communications (UC) is the integration of real-time communication services such as instant messaging (chat), presence information, telephony (including IP telephony), video conferencing, data sharing (including web connected electronic whiteboards interactive whiteboards), call control and speech recognition with non-real-time communication services such as unified messaging (integrated voicemail, email, SMS and fax). UC is not necessarily a single product, but a set of products that provides a consistent unified user-interface and user-experience across multiple devices and media-types.”
Doesn’t this read like part two of what we once referred to as “convergence?”
In reality, that definition is also likely to prove to be too narrow — because “unification” is happening in every other aspect of our technology, too.
I have remarked before on the trend toward consolidation of equipment into fewer components. In fact, we have been talking about it as an industry for many years, and nowhere more than the rental portion of the industry, where we typically charge daily rentals for each piece of inventory used. This consolidation of components has had many effects on the rental market, as we will see.
Let me give you an example: For me, entering the rental market in the 1980s, the first time I saw this kind of equipment consolidation really happened in audio during the late ’80s and early ’90s. At that point, the microprocessor and DSP were beginning to come to market, and although not yet having the power for the kind of commercial applications in video we now use them in, they were just right for the lower-bandwidth audio stream. So then we first saw dedicated audio components such as equalizers, limiters and speaker processing begin to consolidate into single boxes. My audio engineers got very excited over those components, and their ability to be easily programmed and repurposed for different shows. The boxes were expensive at first, so the consolidation had little pain because while we lost a number of components from the rental, we could charge higher rates for the “converged” boxes.
However, the second step of this consolidation brought a little more pain because, once the components converged, manufacturing numbers went way up, bringing the price down. Those of us who used a traditional rental model began to see a reduction in revenue if we were charging a straight line percentage price for rental of the box.
Then there was the third stage of pain because once these components were reduced to boards and chipsets, it became easier and easier to bring out a new model with improved capabilities. Therefore it brought the rental industry into a time when those components were rentable for shorter and shorter periods of time as obsolescence accelerated.
So there’s a cycle: First, components converge into flexible, general-purpose devices; second, the converged devices become cheaper as manufacturing yields go up and parts counts are reduced; finally, the cheaper devices converge again. We stay ahead of this by adopting the latest devices, with the rental market lending a big boon to the sales market as customers like to kick the tires in rental first. Of course, then we pay an additional inventory price as those new components become obsolete faster and faster.
There is also an operational price to pay in rental for this type of convergence. First, we pay a price in that programmable, digital components that work on the network basis are somewhat more difficult to make redundant. In this kind of convergence, we make everything dependent on a smaller number of power supplies, using components that the manufacturer is attempting to make cheaper and cheaper as time goes on.
The second price that we pay is something I call the “Swiss Army knife principle.” I love having a Swiss Army knife (actually, for me, a Leatherman) on my belt, but if I have the opportunity to go back to my tool case for a real screwdriver or real pair of pliers, I would still rather do that. Every time you combine the functions of a tool or component, you run the risk of making each of those functions somewhat less capable in favor of simplicity.
And, although I have used an audio example in this column, this kind of convergence is happening in virtually every electronic component we deal with. Is this good for the rental industry? That’s a complicated question, and in our next column we will examine how this convergence has affected our video components, our computer components and most importantly, our profitability. Leave a Comment
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Have You Noticed Sony’s New Laser Technology? Eventually, You Will…
By Gary Kayye rAVe Founder
When it was first launched at InfoComm, there was, to be frank, very little fanfare surrounding Sony’s new VPL-FHZ55 – the industry’s first (and still only) 100 percent laser-based light sourced projector.
We noticed, however, and even put it on stop #4 on our coveted InfoComm Top-10 Tour. We saw it as a game-changer (remember I said this — right here, right now, in this article).
Why? Well, Sony VPL-FHZ55 is, in fact, 100 percent laser-based light- not a hybrid LED/Laser light source (like that of the Casio, ViewSonic, Panasonic type). There’s an actual blue laser inside the projector. More accurately, there’s a stacked array (the exact number is trade secret) of diode-based lasers. Since it’s solid-state technology, manufacturing is simple, quick, consistent and offers high-yields of quality laser arrays – with a 20,000 lamp life rating. That makes it last longer than 90% of users will ever need the projector to last – without ever changing a lamp.
So, how do they get red and green? Simple, they took a page from the DLP book (sort of) and have a color-wheel that spins in front of the light source – but, that’s where the similarity stops. This color wheel isn’t coated or painted with an artificial color segment or two. It’s actually a phosphor-based color wheel. And, since phosphor is a natural element that’s mined in places like Africa and Australia, it has a defined color temperature that, when mixed with the blue laser, it produces pure, natural white light (at 6500 K). For those of you who are AV old-timers like me, you’ll remember the importance of D65 (or 6500 Kelvin) from the CRT-projector and monitor days that made the imaging and colorimetry “bar” that every single LCD, LED and DLP-based projector strives for – in fact, many of them still compare their color reproduction to that of CRT; some 12 years after the last CRT projector was manufactured.
The combination of the blue laser throwing intense light through a phosphor color-wheel makes for the whitest white-point of any solid-state of LCD projector lamp technology on the market today. And, by they way, the only reason the phosphor wheel is spinning is to cool it – but, it also means the image can’t be burned in.
Watch this quick 10-second video on how the laser is used inside the VPL-FHZ55.
So, why isn’t everyone using laser?
Well, this is all brand-new technology. Sony is pioneering it, quite honestly. But, in case you didn’t know, both Christie and Barco have announced laser-based projectors (both using individual red, green and blue lasers) and you will see projectors from them in 2014. But, for now, Sony’s the lone provider. And, there are some other major advantages. One, no fan — no need — nothing to cool. Second, projection orientation — you can mount the projector to display an image in landscape or portrait modes and light and color tracking is identical when multiple projectors are integrated and turned on and off together — well over 99 percent accuracy. Light dissipation over time is almost identical between projectors — so you’ll likely see a lot of these going in multi-projection applications like video walls and command and control centers.
Oh, as for all those myths about laser projection: wrong. Nada. None of them are true. You can look into a laser projector’s lens and not go blind, it’s not hot and it won’t burn a hole into something. In actuality, after you get past the phosphor wheel, it’s identical to nearly all the other Sony 3LCD projectors. The light is polarized, thrown through Dichroic mirrors that split the white light into red, green and blue and then bounces off three mirrors (yes, one for red, one for green and one for blue) and then into an LCD prism block and out the lens. In fact, lasers have some interesting advantages that virtually no other technology has like a 360-degree mounting design (it can literally be mounted at any angle), zero-light leakage video mute and a 100 percent mercury-free design.
Sony’s video on the new VPL-FHZ55 is, well, lacking in excitement, but it does a good job explaining how the technology works AND the features and benefits of the projector itself.
Although Sony’s lone laser projector is the VPL-FHZ55, a 4,000-lumen, 1920×1200 resolution box, Sony’s promised that at InfoComm it will debut a line-up with various resolutions and light outputs — so the applications where laser appears will vastly increase nearly overnight.
So, you may not be using lasers yet, but you will be. Leave a Comment
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Yamaha Corporation Acquires Revolabs
Yamaha and Revolabs announced today that the two companies have entered into a definitive agreement in which Yamaha will acquire Revolabs, which will operate as a subsidiary. Yamaha, an audio manufacturer that already offers voice communication and pro audio equipment, will be able to expand its portfolio to include wireless microphone systems and conference phones.
Yamaha Corporation President Takuya Nakata said the acquisition will allow Yamaha to accelerate its goal of increasing sales in its electronics business unit, which was one of the primary goals announced recently in the Yamaha Management Plan 2016.
Revolabs will continue to operate as a wholly-owned subsidiary of Yamaha Corporation and continue working on its own market goals with the existing management team. The transaction is expected to be completed by the end of this month after customary regulatory approvals. Moelis & Company acted as the exclusive financial advisor and Latham & Watkins LLP acted as legal advisor to Revolabs in connection with the transaction.
Revolabs is here. Yamaha Commercial Audio is here. Leave a Comment
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Four Reasons You NEED to Attend InfoCommInfoComm 2014 in Las Vegas is less than three months away (June 14-20) and there are four things this AV show offers that no other AV show aimed at integrators does:
Off-Site Technology Tours – Get a rare, behind-the-scenes technical tour of the Palms Recording Studio. Explore the control room fitted with LCD metering, Total Recall automation and motorized faders that 50 Cent, Queen and John Fogarty have all used to make music magic. Check out all Tech Tours including Blue Man Group, University of Nevada, Las Vegas and the Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas.
Technology Pavilions – Discover digital signage, display walls and processors from all of the top brands at the Digital Signage Pavilion where you will find the most comprehensive collection of digital signage exhibitors in North America. Technology Pavilions are a great way to find what’s new in unified communications and collaboration, digital signage live events, rigging safety and security.
Manufacturers’ Training – Who better to explain than the manufacturers that develop it? Get in-depth explanations of platforms you could be using today, presented to you by some of the leading minds in pro AV. Find the bestManufacturers’ Training for you!
Demo Rooms – Compare the latest technologies from more than a dozen of your favorite audio manufacturers in the Audio Demo Rooms, now open on Tuesday to give you an extra day! Be sure to check out the Audio Demo Rooms located in the North Hall of the Las Vegas Convention Center.
So register today here. Leave a Comment
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Almo Co-Locates E4 AV Tour International Sign Expo in Orlando on April 23Today Almo Professional A/V announced it will co-locate with ISA International Sign Expo for the next E4 AV Tour event on April 23 at the Orange County Convention Center in Orlando, Fla. E4 Orlando will be held in conjunction with ISA Sign Expo, taking place in the same location, April 23-26.
“This is the first time we have co-located our E4 event with a major tradeshow and we look forward to connecting with those in the sign industry to share the value, benefits and profitability opportunities in digital signage from an AV perspective,” according to Melody Craigmyle, vice president of marketing for Almo Professional A/V. “E4 Orlando will include a digital signage keynote address, a full day of courses focusing on digital signage and information about Almo’s new Content Creation Services, and more than 35 audiovisual manufacturers showcasing the newest digital signage products. We will also co-host a reception immediately after E4.”
Craigmyle added that the morning keynote address and afternoon panel discussion will also be available live via webstream so those who cannot attend in person can still tune in to ask questions and learn valuable information.
“We are so excited to have Almo’s E4 tour co-locating with ISA International Sign Expo,” said Lori Anderson, ISA president and CEO. “Dynamic digital signage is a growth area for the sign industry. Partnering with Almo’s E4 tour will bring integrators and sign manufacturers together to help both serve their customers better.”
Now in its fifth year, the E4 tour continues to evolve to meet the changing needs of AV resellers, integrators and consultants. Credited as the industry’s most specialized one-day dealer event, E4 has traveled to countless cities to serve the product, technical and business training needs of thousands of resellers and installers while creating the ideal forum for professional networking.
ISA International Sign Expo is the on-premise sign industry’s largest event, drawing 19,500 attendees in 2013. Its exhibit floor exceeds 200,000 square feet of space and includes an area dedicated to this unique sector of the sign industry, ISA Dynamic Digital Park (DDP). In addition to education sessions within the DDP throughout the show, ISA will once again hold Dynamic Digital Day at ISA Sign Expo on Wednesday, April 23, a special day of education for sign companies dedicated to dynamic digital signage.
E4 Orlando will include a specialized keynote address delivered by Gary Kayye of Kayye Consulting called “Press the ‘ON’ Button: Digital Signage is Here to Stay,” which focuses on how to get in on the ground floor of this explosively growing market. Additionally, E4 Orlando will include the following courses, some worth valuable InfoComm Renewal Units:
- Content Creation for Digital Signage. Almo Content Creation Team
- Power and Grounding Best Practices. InfoComm International
- Don’t Be a Commodity: Dealing with RFPs. Stimson Group, LLC
- Video Walls: A Start to Finish Guide for Success. NEC
- Assessing Network Readiness for AV Systems. InfoComm International
- Demystifying Media Players for Digital Signage. Brawn Consulting
- New A/V Integration Model. Stimson Group
- The Art of “Techorating” with Displays for Commercial Applications. Brawn Consulting
E4 Orlando is on April 23, 2014 at the Orange County Convention Center and runs from 7:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. There will be an onsite networking reception sponsored by Almo, ISA and NEC Display Solutions of America immediately following from 4:00-5:00 p.m. It is an entirely free event, including parking, for Almo Pro A/V’s reseller, integrator and consultant partners.
To register, click here. To watch any of the videos we shot at the Dallas E4 last week, go here. Leave a Comment
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Epson Now Holds 39 Percent of Projector Market Share in U.S.According to PMA Research, Epson continues to hold the number one position in North America for 2013 with a market share of 39 percent, representing a five-point increase year-over-year. With positive revenue growth four years in a row, Epson had the largest total revenue increase in the North American projector market in 2013 with a 24 percent share, which represents a nearly six-point increase year-over-year.
The two largest market share segments for Epson are home entertainment (52 percent of the native 1080p category) and SMB with a 37 percent market share. Recently, Epson launched a line of high brightness projectors (4,000+ lumens) and it will be interesting to see the company’s growth in that category for 2014 — it should be quite large.
One thing that’s interesting to note is that Epson only sells 3LCD projectors — no DLP.
The entire market study is here. Leave a Comment
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InfoComm Intros InfoComm Connections: Regional Trade Shows for In-House Pros and Purchasers InfoComm plans to host a new series of two-day trade shows aimed at technology managers, in-house technical staff, institutional buyers and end-users. InfoComm Connections will debut in Philadelphia, October 22-23, 2014 at the Pennsylvania Convention Center, and will feature a combination of exhibits, speakers, industry training and networking opportunities.
“InfoComm Connections will feature a sampling of all that is great about the annual flagship North American InfoComm show. This first show will allow technology professionals from New England to the Carolinas the experience of a show within a very short travel distance from where they work,” said David Labuskes, executive director and CEO, InfoComm International. “This will allow over 2,000 in-house experts, technology managers and other attendees the ability to see a wide range of product demonstrations, attend keynote and training sessions, network and more.”
Several big name exhibitors have already expressed interest in participating in the event. It is expected that InfoComm Connections will ultimately feature about 80 exhibitors in 12,000 net square feet of space. “Getting in front of more end-customers is a major strategic goal of many of our technology manufacturing members, and it made sense for InfoComm to contribute to that goal by starting this series of shows,” said Labuskes.
In addition to InfoComm University training, InfoComm Connections will feature manufacturer training and partner group conference offerings in affordable, focused sessions.
Registration for the October event will open in July. InfoComm will hold a second InfoComm Connections show in San Jose, California, March 4-5, 2015. With the introduction of these new shows, InfoComm will no longer host the Washington, D.C.-based GovComm show.
To see all of InfoComm’s events, click here. Leave a Comment
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And The Winner Is: LCDIn the industry’s first-ever independent survey asking AV’ers which projection technology, LCD or DLP, they prefer, LCD has won in a big way. We will do this survey annually in the future, so we’ll see how it evolves over time.
Our February survey was pretty simple — Which technology do you prefer: LCD or DLP, in eight different applications? The applications included:
- House of Worship
- K-12 & Higher Education
- Rental
- Staging
- Conference Room/Boardroom
- Large Screen Entertainment
- Healthcare
- Government and Security
The survey garnered nearly 5,000 votes and the clear winner — in seven of the eight applications, the winner was LCD. We did have a ninth category (home theaters), but we had some major some ballot-stuffing from projector manufacturers — so we threw that category out (we will, however, give our readers another opportunity to re-vote on that category this summer).
In any case, we complied the results in an infographic, which you can check out here.
Have you seen our article on Sony’s new Laser Projection Technology? No? Well, you should read it. Because sooner than you probably think, it will be the competitor to LCD and DLP technology. Leave a Comment
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Extron Control Systems Do BYOD Via LinkLicenseExtron’s new LinkLicense is a way for people to use their tablet or laptop as the primary control interface in an Extron control system. LinkLicense gives integrators the freedom to choose control interfaces based on their customers’ specific needs, and gives users a much broader choice of control interfaces. All IPCP Pro control processors may be purchased with or without a LinkLicense.
System designers use Extron’s GUI Designer software to build custom interfaces to fit the needs of the users and the resolution of the target device. A unique benefit of LinkLicense is the ability to use GUI Designer to design interfaces for specific user roles. This capability allows a technician to view a custom, power-user interface that gives him full access to all controls and functions of the system. A presenter’s interface, on the other hand, would include only the controls and functions he would typically use. All interfaces are stored on the IPCP Pro control processor and can be viewed on tablets or laptops without the need to deploy or install expensive third party Apps. LinkLicense is easily accessed through the TouchLink for iPad App, as well as any Silverlight-enabled Web browser.
Here are all the details. Leave a Comment
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BenQ’s New M7 Series Aimed at SMB and ClassroomsBenQ America launched two projectors in its MX series in the form of the MX768 and MW769. Both are spec’d at over 4,000 ANSI lumens with a contrast ratio of 13,000:1. They are integrated with their SmartEco power-saving technology and are aimed at small meeting rooms and classrooms.
Featuring resolutions in both XGA (MX768) and WXGA (MW769), respective 4,000 and 4,200 ANSI lumens, the MX768 and MW769 projectors have LAN control to enable centralized remote monitoring and management; integration with Crestron RoomView, AMX, and PJLink; and have 1.5x (MX768) and 1.6x (MW769) zoom-lens ratios.
To enable PC-less presentations, the MX768 and MW769 provide wireless display options, allowing cable-free connections as well as HDMI, RJ45 and USB inputs. Other energy-saving features include “instant restart,” which allows rapid rebooting when the devices are accidentally switched off; up to 3,500 hours of lamp life with BenQ’s SmartEco lamp-saving technology; and a filter-free optical system, which reduces the projectors’ TCO.
The MX768 and MW769 projectors retail at $2,199 and $2,399, respectively and all specs are here. Leave a Comment
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Hitachi Expands 9000 Series Large-Venue Projectors with Off-White Color Availability for All Models Hitachi America now has off-white versions of all its 9000 Series DLP projectors — apparently allowing you to better match 1970s decor? The CP-X9111, CP-WX9211 and CP-WU9411 projectors are spec’d up to 10,000 lumens brightness and feature two built-in color wheels, enabling users to easily switch between a so-called Rich Color Mode or Bright Mode.
All projectors include motorized lens shift that enables lens shift, zoom and focus and six interchangeable lenses are available to match various screen sizes and installation environments.
Other than the new off-white color, there are no spec changes, just a new cabinet option. All the details of each model are here. Leave a Comment
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Barco Becomes First Projector Manufacturer to Issue All ProAV Projectors as BIM ObjectsBarco told rAVe today that all its corporate AV projector line will be available as BIM objects starting immediately. Now consultants, architects and designers will have quick access to complete and detailed product information to easily integrate the Barco projectors from the very start of their design phase.
The Barco Present projectors for corporate AV include a line of single-chip and three-chip DLP business projectors — with brightness levels from 5,000 up to 10,000 lumens, and a wide choice in resolutions from XGA to WQXGA. You can see the line here.
The face-based BIM objects include features such as exchangeable lenses, AV planning, MEP connections, throw ranges and no-go zones. The BIM objects contain a high level of detail; consultants, architects and designers can get a complete bill of materials directly from their BIM software. “We have managed to visually re-create the elegant design of Barco’s projectors, however — the complete package is what’s important. Engineers and planners will have great use of the highly detailed BIM objects,” says Ben O’Donnell, CTO at BIMobject AB.
All BIM objects will be avaible for free on the BIM object portal and on the download pages of the Barco Corporate AV projectors on barco.com.
This month rAVe founder Gary Kayye also debuted a new BIM-centric keynote address at the Almo Pro/AV E4 AV Tour, which you can watch it here. Leave a Comment
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TASCAM Intros Rackmount Clock Generators TASCAM today introduced three clock generators. Each one is specially designed for particular market segments: CG-2000, designed for the broadcasting and post-production; the CG-1800, designed for post-production using NTSC, PAL, HD Tri-level; and the CG-1000, for recording studios and sound musicians. Each unit is equipped with a precision internal clock called OCXO (Oven Controlled Xtal Oscillator) and feature a more accurate clock system when using a rubidium clock or GPS 10MHz clock.
The CG-2000 is a video sync/master clock generator designed to meet the on-site needs for broadcasting and post-production. This unit improves redundancy for both the power supply and video/audio clock.
The CG-1800 is a video sync/master clock generator for post-production and supports NTSC, PAL, HD Tri-level for video, word, AES 3/11 and S/P DIF for audio. This video sync/master clock generator is a necessary building block for the creation of flexible, high-quality audio synchronization systems.
The CG-1000 is a master clock generator designed with recording studios, sound engineers and professional musicians in mind. High quality OCXO offers what TASCAM says is a supremely accurate clock. The external input supports up to 10MHz and offers a more accurate clock system using rubidium clock or GPS 10MHz clock.
Here are all the specifics. Leave a Comment
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Aviom’s D800-Dante A-Net Distributor Now ShippingAudinate and Aviom have announced the D800-Dante A-Net Distributor is now shipping. This unit and the new D800 A-Net Distributor, which is also shipping, distribute audio and power to up to eight Aviom personal mixers, making Aviom systems easier to integrate with various digital consoles and networks.
The D800-Dante A-Net Distributor simplifies connections to the Aviom personal mixers by making it possible to connect directly to any Dante console or network. With the D800-Dante A-Net Distributor, 64 channels from the network can be available to the personal mixers in the system. Each performer with an A360 Personal Mixer can mix those channels he or she wants from this pool of 64 available channels.
Both the D800 and D800-Dante A-Net Distributors are compatible with Aviom’s A-16II and A-16R Personal Mixers, but when used with the A360 Personal Mixers, the D800 and D800-Dante also offer the new Network Mix Back feature. Network Mix Back sends a digital copy of the stereo mix output from each A360 Personal Mixer connected to the D800 or D800-Dante back to the Dante network or to an AN-16/o v.4 Output Module for simplified connections to musicians’ wireless in-ear transmitters. With Network Mix Back, transmitters for wireless in-ears can easily be set up off stage and cabling for the personal mixers on stage is simplified. In addition, both D800s serve as a communications hub for iOS devices connected via an Ethernet Wi-Fi router. iOS support for the A360 is scheduled for release later this year.
Here are all the details. Leave a Comment
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Mackie Thump Series Gets Huge Power BoostMackie this week launched the all-new Thump Series Powered Loudspeakers with over 1000 watts of power per speaker. The Thump Powered Loudspeakers feature precision crossovers, transducer time alignment and a 3-band EQ with a sweepable mid. With flexible mounting options, combo mic/line inputs and a great wedge angle, Thump full-range loudspeakers provide the application flexibility for rental, staging or permanent installs.
Mackie has also added a new Thump18S 18-inch Powered Subwoofer is a 1200-watt, professional band-pass design,. The Thump18S is designed to match with Thump top boxes, delivering what Mackie says is “high-output, chest-thumping low end perfect for any sound system.” (N.B.: Chest-thumping — that’s a new adjective I have not seen before in a press release. Also, I have to say that I love the “Thump” series product name. It’s a breath of fresh air in an industry that tends to either use model numbers — yawn — or ridiculous made up word-sandwiches like TrueBass™ or VibrrrGlass™ for product titles. Thump is short, spelled normally and totally logical for chest-thumping speakers! digress.)
The Mackie Thump Series will be available globally Q2, 2014. The Thump12 lists for $389.99, the Thump15 will list for $469.99 and the Thump18S will lists at $879.99. Here are all the specs. Leave a Comment
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Epson Intros PowerLite Pilot 2 for Centralized AV Switching, ControlEpson this week introduced the PowerLite Pilot 2 Projector Connection and Control Box. Wall mounted, the PowerLite Pilot 2 integrates into classrooms and supports advanced connectivity including VGA, HDMI, MHL and USB.
Built upon the platform of the PowerLite Pilot, the new PowerLite Pilot 2 delivers source switching and volume adjustments and also helps consolidate cables. The control box offers two HDMI ports, including one with MHL (Mobile High-Definition Link) support for connecting multiple digital devices including mobile phones, tablets and other portable devices. The PowerLite Pilot 2 can also be used as an extension box, expanding the range of classroom cables that can be connected to it for added flexibility. It also includes a protective cable cover to prevent dust from entering.
Control is done via RS232, and available inputs and outputs include two HDMI (including one with MHL support), two VGA (computer 1 and 2) connectors with corresponding Audio (inputs/outputs), Composite Video, S-Video, AUX input (for use with portable audio devices), USB Type A, USB Type B and Rec Out. The PowerLite Pilot 2 also works with Epson ELPSP02 Active Speakers (optional, sold separately), a set of two wall-mountable speakers delivering 30 watts of powerful sound with a built-in amplifier, for a complete classroom control and extended audio solution.
The PowerLite Pilot 2 will be available in early May and list for $249. All the specs are here. Leave a Comment
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Extron Ships Compact Six Input Presentation Switcher, Perfect for Classrooms and Small Meeting Rooms Extron has started shipping its new MPS 601, a compact six-input, one-output media presentation switcher for digital and analog sources. It offers four, HDCP-compliant HDMI inputs and two RGB video inputs with analog stereo audio. RGB video and analog audio are digitized and switched through the HDMI output, without the need for additional signal conversion equipment. The MPS 601 features EDID Minder, which maintains continuous EDID communication between connected devices; and Key Minder, which continuously authenticates and maintains HDCP encryption between input and output devices to ensure quick and reliable switching.
The MPS 601 offers some interesting integrator-friendly features including cable equalization on each HDMI input, automatic color bit depth management, power for peripheral devices, and indicators for monitoring and troubleshooting. Multiple control options including front panel, RS232, contact closure and auto-switching between inputs streamline integration into various environments. Housed in a 1U half-rack width metal enclosure, the compact MPS 601 can be rack-mounted, installed in a lectern or mounted under a table.
Here are all the details. Leave a Comment
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Kramer Intros VP-470 3G HD-SDI ScalerKramer’s new VP-470 is a 3G HD-SDI scaler that up- or down-scales SD, HD and 3G HD-SDI signals to one of 16 resolutions (up to 1080p @60Hz). Kramer says it designed the scaler to be used in broadcast applications and that it can feed a production switcher, edit suite or router in a television studio. It has one SDI input and looping output for a local monitor on BNC connectors to accept an SD, HD or 3G SDI signal. Supported formats include SMPTE standards 259M (SDI), 292M (HD-SDI) and 424 M (3G HD-SDI). The VP-470 simultaneously outputs the scaled signal to two active outputs on BNC connectors.
The VP-470 features a built-in proc amp that can adjust the brightness, contrast and color of the output signal via the on-screen display, front panel buttons or RS232. The VP-470 also has selectable output aspect ratio settings of Full (default), 16:9, 16:10, 4:3 or Best Fit and it has the ability to turn over-scan on or off.
Here are all the detailed specs. Leave a Comment
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Extron’s TLI Pro 101 TouchLink Interface Allows Third Party Touch Panel Use Extron’s TLI Pro 101 TouchLink Interface allows a third-party touch screen display to be used as a user-interface to an Extron Pro Series control system. Integrated with scaled HDCP-compliant HDMI input for video preview and a scaled output that supports displays from 800×600 to 1920×1200, as well as HDTV 1080p/60, it also includes Power over Ethernet (PoE) to allow the TLI Pro 101 to receive power and communications over a single Ethernet cable, eliminating the need for an additional power supply. The TLI Pro 101 works with any Extron IP Link Pro control processor, enabling third party touch screen devices to be used for complete, interactive control of a broad range of source devices.
As with all TouchLink Pro touch panels, the TLI Pro 101 operates using standard network infrastructure and is easy to install with reliable and cost effective Ethernet cable. The TLI Pro 101 and all TouchLink Pro touch panels are customized using Extron GUI Designer software.
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VISIX Adds 4K Media Player for Digital SignageVISIX has now added a new digital signage media player capable of supporting 4K content (3840×2160). The player is powered by an Intel Haswell processor and HD 5000 graphics. Measuring only 4.25×6.5×1.63″ in size, the 4K player from Visix is a compact form factor but has a built-in power supply (no wall wart). Visix says that Wi-Fi is an option, but cable TV overlay is not. It has two outputs — HDMI and mini DisplayPort. The latter must be used for 4K applications.
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Revolabs Unveils FLX UC 1000 IP Conference PhoneRevolabs just announced the FLX UC 1000 IP conference phone with SIP call and USB audio support. Integrated with four microphones and support for SIP, the speakerphone is aimed for both on-premises and in the cloud conferencing.
Equipped with full-duplex technology, the FLX UC 1000 enables audio exchanges between conferencing participants to mirror the sensation of in-person conversations. To push audio quality even further, the device provides an increased frequency range up to 20,000 Hz to deliver superior sound performance in any audio setting — from internal calls to music playback and collaborations across the globe.
For simple IP calling capabilities, the FLX UC 1000 features a dialer with a 3.5-inch color display while USB support allows users to connect the speakerphone conveniently to any laptop, PC, or tablet for use with communication applications such as Skype, Microsoft Lync, IBM Sametime, WebEx and others.
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Pexip Announces Infinity Version 4 Pexip today announced the version 4 release of Pexip Infinity, which adds native interoperability with Microsoft Lync 2010, 2013 and Lync Online/Office 365.
Pexip Infinity naturally extends Lync’s capabilities by adding Virtual Meeting Rooms for everyone in the organization. Participants joining via WebRTC can connect without any browser plugins. In technical terms, Pexip Infinity version 4 supports H.264 SVC (used by Lync 2013), RTVideo (used by Lync 2010), and RDP (Remote Desktop Protocol) content sharing (used by all versions of Lync), and transcodes them to any of the other protocols it already supports (SIP, H.323, and WebRTC).
In addition to SIP/H323, Pexip provides interoperability by real-time transcoding of all video codecs — RTV, RDP, VP8, H.263 and H.264/H.264 SVC. Pexip Infinity’s V4 also includes a distributed gateway for point-to-point calls between any type of endpoints — Lync, traditional videoconferencing or WebRTC. According to Pexip, the distributed nature of the Infinity allows an organization to deploy conferencing and gateway resources in any location very easily, thereby avoiding hairpinning of media back to a centralized data center.
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Sharp Launches 4K Multi-Touch LCD Sharp’s new PN-K322B is a commercial-grade 32″ 4K resolution (3,840×2,160 pixels) LCD monitor using its IGZO technology, the company’s first 4K res monitor using multi-touch technology. Sharp’s IGZO technology is an energy-efficient LCD that enables smaller-sized pixels; the company has a dedicated microsite that explains the technology here. Brightness is spec’d at 300 cd/m2. Inputs are one DisplayPort, 2 HDMI (HDCP compatible), RS232C for control and a 3.5 mm-diameter mini stereo jack for audio.
The PN-K322B can be set up in a vertical (90-degree) or low-angle (25-degree) position thanks to a dedicated stand that allows the monitor to slide easily between the two angles. The vertical set-up enables easy viewing of the monitor, whereas the low-angle set-up is ideal for touchscreen operation and onscreen writing by hand. Seamlessly flush with the bezel, the PN-K322B’s full-flat screen is ideal for touchscreen operations that involve swiping from the edge of the screen. This touchscreen monitor is capable of recognizing 10 touch points at once, thereby expanding touch interface applications beyond merely writing on the screen. To prevent unwanted hand input when the user’s palm is resting on the touchscreen, a palm cancellation function can be selected to prioritize pen input.
The PN-K322B supports MST (Multi-Stream Transport) mode as specified by the DisplayPort 1.2 standard. A single DisplayPort cable can transfer 3,840 x 2,160 video signals at 60 fps, resulting in smooth rendering of high-resolution video and fluid mouse operation. IGZO technology and edge-lit LED backlighting enable the PN-K322B to offer a slend profile, measuring only about 36 millimeters at the thickest point.
Complete specs are available here. Leave a Comment
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Analog Way Debuts Rack-Mount Power Supply for Its ScalersAnalog Way’s Secure Power Unit is a new power protection module designed for the SmartMatriX Ultra, Ascender 32 and Ascender 48 products. The Secure Power Unit features dual power supplies providing redundancy against branch circuit failure or unstable power and a battery module that provides approximately 10 minutes in case of mains loss, thus offering time to restore power or back up the system.
The Secure Power Unit can be managed from the Web RCS, the user interface designed for the LiveCore series, offering status monitoring via RS232.
The new Secure Power Unit will start shipping by late April and here are the details. Leave a Comment
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LynTec Debuts Remote Power Control Mobile Described as an “intelligent power distribution panel,” LynTec’s new Remote Power Control Mobile (RPCM) offers portable power with motorized circuit breakers; current monitoring at the branch circuit level; and remote monitoring capabilities for power distribution to theaters, arenas and any place where power needs to be mobile and monitored.
Housed in a portable rolling rack case, the RPCM includes:
- 120/208 Volts
- 42 breaker positions
- Mix and match motorized and unmotorized breakers
- 150A, 225A or 400A MCB
- 400A bus
- Cam-style connectors for power inputand feed-thru.
- 200 percent neutrals
- Nine LED displays to monitor power: 3-phase voltage, 3-phase current, neutral-ground voltage, neutral current, line frequency
- Multi-function LCD display
- Branch and phase current monitoring
- Customized output connectors
- ETL Listed
- RPC controller
Here are all the detailed specs and options. Leave a Comment
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Chief Ships ConnexSysThe Chief ConnexSys Video Wall Mounting System is now shipping and. According to Chief, the four integrator-aimed features that make it install-worthy are:
Single strut channel install per row — for large walls, installers simply level a single strut channel and hang the mounts. This quickly aligns the entire row and removes the need for spacers to measure horizontally between mounts. The mounts work with strut channel that can be easily sourced locally. For multiple rows, simply use the height of the screen to measure between each row rail.
PowerZone Adjustment — Six points of tool-free height, tilt, lateral and depth adjustment are all found in one easy-to-access location. One tilt pivot point and a floating plane protect the display from damaging twisting and eliminate transfer of torque from the wall to screen. Three levels of lateral adjustment allow for precise alignment and protect screens from unnecessary collisions.
Generous Depth Adjustment — No wall is perfectly flat, and the more screens are added, the more difficult aligning video walls becomes. ConnexSys mounts allow the home position to be set anywhere between 4 to 7.3″ (102-186 mm) from the wall for perfect depth. Independent depth adjustments can be made on both sides of the mount to accommodate walls up to 2″ out of alignment horizontally. This helps meet needs for large video walls, recess video walls where matching the outer surface can be particularly difficult, and even single display recess applications.
RapidDraw Display Release — A controlled pull cord release gives installers access to any display on the video wall, removing the possibility of accidental pop-outs from people bumping into screens. The release also protects the displays by reducing the frequency and aggressiveness of screen pushing. Cords can be positioned to pull for release from any side. The mounts can be pulled out up to 13.7″ (348 millimeters) from the wall for ample access space. Engage the kickstand to 20 degrees for even more room to work.
Rigidity — A particular problem for installers is that displays lose their alignment if they are pulled out for service. Overzealous cleaning crews can also accidentally shift display alignment. Chief engineers added rigidity to the solution to prevent accidental screen shift from occurring when the screen is pulled out.
ConnexSys is available in landscape (LVS1U) and portrait (LVS1UP) versions with rails. Here are all the details. Leave a Comment
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