By Ira Weinstein Sr. Analyst, Consultant and Partner, Wainhouse Research
The Wainhouse Research (WR) video conferencing / AV team took InfoComm 2015 by storm. For those of you keeping track, this is Ira’s 26th (yes — not a typo) InfoComm. As always, InfoComm provides access to a wealth of information about products, services, and companies… as well as the chance to catch up with old friends.
As always, we tried to meet with as many companies as possible during this far-too-short event. Our write-up represents what we saw and deemed interesting. This is not to say that other companies did not have something interesting to say at the event … it just means that we didn’t have a chance to drop by.
Video Conferencing Updates
Video conferencing (VC) continues to be an area of significant innovation and change. At InfoComm 2015 (and even before the show during pre-briefings), we met with both new companies just entering the video conferencing space, and existing players announcing new releases and enhancements.
Telephony players Grandstream and Yealink demonstrated their debut group video conferencing systems. Grandstream’s GVC3200 (MSRP of $3,999) is an Android-powered, standards-based (SIP) set-top video conferencing system that supports 1080p video resolution and includes an embedded 9-way (for VGA resolution) video bridge. Notable features include support for three displays (two of which can be used to display far-end sites during a multipoint call), and the use of a Bluetooth remote control with touchpad. In addition, the GVC3200 allows users to install third-party Android apps (e.g. Google Hangouts, Microsoft Lync / Skype for Business, etc.), and supports multi-point calls with different types of systems. For example, the system could host a call including two SIP callers, one Lync user, and one Google Hangouts user. This is the first time we’ve seen this level of interop in a video endpoint (instead of within a video bridge / gateway). See our video for more information.
Yealink demonstrated a portfolio of standards-based (SIP), 1080p-capable group video conferencing systems including the VC110 (includes an integrated microphone, PTZ camera with 4x optical zoom, MSRP of $1,999), the VC120 (includes a microphone pod / phone, PTZ camera with 18x optical zoom, MSRP of $5,499), and the VC400 (similar to the VC120, but includes a 4-site 1080p-capable video bridge that can be upgraded to 8-site, MSRP of $8,000). While we are not aware of any specifically innovative features, the fact that Yealink entered the space with a portfolio of endpoints is certainly noteworthy. Hopefully we’ll be able to test these systems in the near future.
Polycom demonstrated the newly announced RealPresence Web Suite, a re-creation of the company’s CloudAxis Suite. The first key feature of Web Suite is browser-based (WebRTC) video conferencing with an innovative twist – during calls with up to three WebRTC clients, the media routes directly between the participating endpoints (the signaling, however, routes via the Polycom platform). When a fourth participant joins, or when a non-WebRTC system / client connects, the call is automatically transferred to the RealPresence Platform / MCU. Essentially, this means that MCU resources are used when needed, and not for every single connection. The second key feature is support for multi-stream content sharing that allows participants to share / view up to six content channels simultaneously. Users can upload content to be shared in advance, or share their desktop or a single application. Annotation and digital white boarding are also supported. While WR has yet to test these capabilities, the specs behind Web Suite – especially in the content sharing area — are quite impressive. But perhaps more importantly, we view this as the first public example of Polycom’s mindset shift away from just audio and video, and toward collaboration.
Polycom also announced RealPresence Media Suite, a software-based video content management solution that Polycom is positioning as YouTube for the Enterprise. It’s available in two flavors; standard (for smaller deployments) and professional (includes enterprise content delivery network / ECDN support and other enterprise-grade functions). Media Suite allows users to upload existing video content, capture content using his webcam, or instruct the system to dial into a virtual meeting room (VMR) and record (and even stream) the meeting in progress. The system allows users to view content via his web browser or from within their VMRs. In addition, Polycom announced global availability of its RealPresence Cloud offering.
Fresh off the Cisco Live / C-Scape event just a week earlier, Cisco treated WR to a private booth tour. Highlights of the tour included an exceptional demo of the Cisco tracking camera, which worked amazingly well despite the almost deafening booth noise, and a demo of support for Lync / Skype for Business connections to WebEx CMR. The company also announced a new, HD-capable video phone, the 8865 (which replaces the 9900 series, and uses the same technology as the SX-10).
StarLeaf treated booth visitors to a demo of its Skype for Business / Microsoft Lync meeting room solution — the GTm 5220. The 5220 is an integrator friendly group video conferencing system that registers directly to Microsoft Lync and Office 365. Key features include support for multiple screens, various camera options, and the company’s touch controller UI. According to company execs, despite how it appears, this is not a departure from the company’s heavily touted cloud strategy. Instead, this is a direct response to enterprise market requirements. The company also showed the StarLeaf SBC. Positioned by StarLeaf as, and we quote, “the industry’s first video session border controller,” the SBC is available as an appliance or virtual machine and supports direct calling from one environment to any other environment (e.g., from Lync environments to Cisco-powered environments).
Ricoh demonstrated the V3500, a 720p-capable group video conferencing system based on Vidyo technology with a US MSRP of $2,200. The V3500 is a portable device that includes a 4x digital zoom camera, microphone, and speakers, and is specifically designed to connect to the Ricoh video conferencing service.
Acano announced several new capabilities at InfoComm. In no particular order, the first announcements focus on enhancements in the NAT / firewall traversal area including the addition of support for SIP and Lync / Skype for Business on its Edge server, and improved tunneling over port 443 which enhances the ability to connect from external locations (e.g., coffee shops). The second is a new capability Acano calls Dual Home which provides advanced cascading between multi-point calls hosted on Lync servers and calls hosted on Acano. The result is a native experience for participants on each platform. EQRWThe third is the release of a new trial service that supports automated sign-ups and referrals, and includes customer education tools — both designed to expedite and simplify the process of testing the Acano platform.
At the Blue Jeans Network (BJN) booth, WR saw a demo of the company’s Apple Watch application, which provides meeting notifications, a view of upcoming meetings, a time-to-meeting countdown, and one-touch access for connecting to a meeting on the paired iPhone. In addition, we spent some time using Relay Touch, a client / server application that runs on a customer-provided mobile device located in a group video conferencing room and that enables one-click connections to BJN hosted meetings. This video demonstrates the workflow of Relay Touch.
During our meeting with Pexip, the company discussed a variety of recent releases and platform enhancements including new mobile clients for iOS and Android devices, multi-protocol (SIP, H.323, and WebRTC) registration capabilities, and the ability to control registrars through its external policy servers.
Videxio announced support for Skype and Skype for Business connections to Videxio-hosted VMRs. In addition, the company has enabled point-to-point (direct) video calling with content sharing between Microsoft Lync / Skype for Business users and traditional Cisco / Polycom video systems. We were also interested to learn that Microsoft Lync / Skype for Business currently represents ~30 percent of Videxio’s video call traffic.
By Ira Weinstein Sr. Analyst, Consultant and Partner, Wainhouse Research
The WR video conferencing / AV team took InfoComm 2015 by storm. For those of you keeping track, this is Ira’s 26th (yes — not a typo) InfoComm. As always, InfoComm provides access to a wealth of information about products, services, and companies… as well as the chance to catch up with old friends.
As always, we tried to meet with as many companies as possible during this far-too-short event. Our write-up represents what we saw and deemed interesting. This is not to say that other companies did not have something interesting to say at the event… it just means that we didn’t have a chance to drop by.
Huddle Solutions and Wireless Presentation Systems
At InfoComm 2015, we saw a large number of products that vendors referred to as “huddle room” solutions or systems. Given the varying form factors and features included in these devices, it is clear that the criteria for calling something huddle-room ready or optimized have yet to be defined. We, of course, have our own thoughts in this area. But for now, we will simply describe what we saw at the show.
Phoenix Audio Technologies announced (but did not demo) a new audio device called Condor, which the company is positioning as an all-in-one audio system. Condor is essentially a wall-mounted multi-microphone array that looks like a sound bar, but does NOT include speakers. According to the company, Condor creates audio beams into the room that zoom in and pick up any voice up to thirty feet away. The unit includes analog, USB, and optical interfaces that allow it to connect to standard video conferencing systems or integrated audio devices. Condor also includes a built-in SIP phone controlled using an app on a mobile device.
QSC showed the newly announced Q-SYS Core 110f DSP product, which is a mash-up of a software-based audio DSP and AV control system. Intel-based and running Linux, the 110f allows users to connect microphones and speakers, and provides a USB connection to a computer (for BYOD applications). The system includes 16 USB input channels and 16 USB output channels that are software configurable, providing support for a wide range of applications and environments. The 110f is controlled using up to eight optional programmable QSC touch panels. The touch panel acts as the AV user interface, and includes a USB connection used for audio in/out from laptops and mobile devices. QSC did not provide any pricing information at the show. While we haven’t tested the 110f yet, we are both intrigued and confused by this offering. A software-controlled DSP is certainly interesting. However, the concept of a combined DSP and AV control system may or may not make sense (depending on the situations / requirements). Also we question whether a high-end DSP will be needed within (or fit within the budgets of) many huddle rooms.
WR has tested the AMX Enzo product in our lab in the past, with solid results. At this year’s show, AMX demonstrated several new Enzo features. The first is a new moderator mode that allows the moderator / host to select which users’ content should be displayed on screen. In addition, Enzo now supports up to four simultaneous content items on screen. Furthermore, Enzo can now receive and playback H.264 media streams — either from an AMX streaming device or a third party encoder. Check out Ira’s discussion with AMX.
The huddle room was alive and well at the Arrive Systems booth. The AAP-1011-BYMG wireless presentation system (MSRP U.S. $695) supports 1080p/60 video sharing plus audio, offers a single HDMI output, and supports native sharing (without a client download) for iOS, Mac, Android and Windows 8.1 devices and systems. The 1011 can operate independently (leveraging integrated hot-spot functionality to create its own Wi-Fi network) or over the customer’s LAN. The AMP-1041-BYMG (MSRP U.S. $1,400) combines wireless presentation and a built-in switcher to allow users to choose between wireless presentation content, a VGA input, an HDMI input, and a display port input. In addition, Arrive was showing a new USB speakerphone, a pan / tilt wide-angle camera, and a pan / tilt / zoom camera. Arrive also showed us its InfoPoint Room Scheduler offering which includes a central server and displays mounted outside each meeting room that show the room’s free / busy status and allows immediate booking of the space. Finally, Arrive demo’d the Facepoint solution, a windows-based control system that supports third party collaboration applications including Microsoft Lync, Cisco Jabber, and Polycom RealPresence Desktop.
WR was pleased to participate in the Crestron Press Tour. Highlights of the event included a demonstration of 3D image support (Revit files) in the newest release of Crestron Fusion, the Crestron Certified Room Design program allowing integrators to install pre-defined and tested room configurations without the need for custom control programming, and a proof of concept (POC) of the integration of Crestron and Microsoft Surface Hub.
InfoComm 2015 Sets Record in OrlandoInfoComm 2015, the annual conference and exhibition for professional audiovisual buyers and sellers worldwide, held June 13-19 in Orlando was visited by 39,105 professionals attending from more than 108 countries. This represents a 5.6 percent increase in attendance over InfoComm 2014. We sent over 30 reporters to the show and you can see all our coverage here.
“InfoComm is the ideal place to make AV purchasing decisions, connect with contacts and learn principles that will boost your effectiveness,” said David Labuskes, CTS, RCDD, executive director and CEO, InfoComm International. “The industry strongly supports the InfoComm show, and we are grateful for the attendee support and for the innovative exhibitors who are committed to making InfoComm a can’t-miss event on the industry calendar.”
More than 5,600 seats were filled at InfoComm University sessions, which provided practical training and attracted the industry’s best and brightest instructors and students. More than 200 professionals sought out the new advanced class series. Attendees come to InfoComm for the diversity of courses on topics ranging from acoustics to videoconferencing. Popular courses included Future Trends, Large Scale Projection Mapping, How to Build an App and Designing Classrooms that Deliver Exceptional Experiences. Technology managers flocked to InfoComm’s Solutions Summits on UCC and Digital Signage, attracting more than 1,300 seats sold.
There were 950 exhibitors participating at InfoComm this year. Exhibitors occupied a record 515,000 net square feet of exhibit and special events space.
We shot 1,483 videos, recorded 30+ podcasts and videocasts, conducted 75+ interviews, wrote hundreds of news stories and blogs and we took more than 2,500 photos of the show floor! See it all here.
HARMAN International announced today that it has acquired SVSi, a maker of networked AV products, which will be incorporated into HARMAN’s AMX brand. Based in Huntsville, Alabama, SVSi manufactures and sells products for delivering a AV over an IP network. Included among these is a full range of encoders and decoders, windowing/wall processors, an audio transceiver, video recorder, and management software. SVSi will join HARMAN Professional’s Video and Control Strategic Business Unit (SBU) led by Rashid Skaf and marketed under the AMX by HARMAN brand. Terms of the transaction were not disclosed.
“HARMAN was early to recognize the emergence and potential of AV over IP,” commented Blake Augsburger, President HARMAN Professional Division. “For more than six years, we have been steadily introducing new products to serve growing customer demand for IP-based products. With the acquisition of SVSi, we will accelerate our development plan with the addition of extraordinary expertise from the SVSi team.”
SVSi products can be ordered immediately from all existing SVSi dealers or AMX dealers. More information on SVSi and its products can be found here.
At InfoComm, rAVe’s Joel Rollins had an exclusive interview with Andy Whitehead and Shaun Robinson, SVSi president and founder:
BenQ Expands Digital Signage Display SeriesBenQ America has announced the availability of four new models in its digital signage series, which will debut at InfoComm 2015. The so-called next-generation signage solutions include the company’s all-new 4K displays, interactive touch panels, ultra-slim monitors for video wall applications, and more.
The four include two new additions to the RP Series of interactive flat panels that feature 10 touch points, the 79-inch 4K RP790 and 70-inch RP702. Equipped with DisplayNote, a free bundle desktop and mobile application, presenters can create more collaborative environments by streaming any content directly from their computers to multiple participants across various devices. Aimed at classroom and other collaborative environments, BenQ’s QWrite software enables onscreen user interaction by editing, highlighting, and co-creating a wide range of documents.
One of the other new models is the 55-inch PL550 (with a bezel-to-bezel gap of only 3.5mm) and integrates HDMI digital daisy-chain capabilities, direct USB flash drive connectivity, video-over-Ethernet (VoE), and BenQ’s MDA software tools. Finally, the fourth is a new 4K2K resolution display spec’d at 350 nits of brightness. The 55-inch ST550K is an ultra-slim signage solution equipped with the X-Sign content creation and management software, MDA software, and a custom Android operating system that enables USB playback and Mobile High-Definition Link (MHL) connectivity to allow mobile devices to mirror HD content to the monitors, the ST550K is an all-in-one smart signage solution packed with everything needed to deploy and manage content in retail shops, restaurants, and corporate settings.
AVIOM Intros D400 and D400-Dante A-Net DistributorsAviom’s new D400 and D400-Dante A-Net Distributors are designed to distribute power and digital audio data to an Aviom personal mixing system.
Two versions of the D400 are available: the standard D400 has an A-Net input and is perfect for those using an analog input module or a digital console card as the front end of their system, while the D400-Dante has Dante I/O instead of the A-Net input. The D400-Dante allows up to 32 Dante channels to be routed to the personal mixing system, which makes connecting to a Dante-enable digital console or audio network as simple as plugging in a Cat-5 cable.
Up to 8 personal mixers can be connected to each D400 or D400-Dante’s A-Net outputs, and an unlimited number of distributors can be used when creating larger systems with more than 8 performers.
The D400 and D400-Dante are compatible with both the original Pro16 version of A-Net and the new Pro16e version of A-Net, the technology driving the A360 and A320 Personal Mixers which allows multiple 16-channel banks of monitoring content to be delivered over a single Cat-5 cable.
Biamp Systems Introduces the Oreno SuiteBiamp Systems today unveiled its all-new Oreno platform — one of the products featured on our InfoComm TOP 10 TOUR. Created specifically for conferencing environments, the system has the ability to control any Biamp Tesira — equipped conference room via mobile devices. Designed to simplify the complexity of conference room setups, the Oreno suite is comprised of three core components: Oreno Creator, Oreno Manager and the Oreno User Interface (UI).
Ideal for standalone or multi-room conference settings using Tesira or TesiraFORTÉ, the Oreno suite allows participants to lock access to specific conference rooms during a meeting, place calls, and recall presets from Web-enabled devices.
To expedite the creation of the user interface, the Oreno Creator tool provides a simple UI builder, which uses drag-and-drop tools and pre-built templates. This allows for end user customization, while eliminating the need for complex programming. The Oreno Manager allows control to be passed to the end user. Deployed onsite on a Windows PC or virtual machine, Oreno Manager provides systems administration tools and network management capabilities. Running in the browser of Web-enabled devices, the Oreno UI provides complete mobile control of a room’s audio functions without the need for any software to be installed on the user’s personal device — creating a flawless conferencing experience for any meeting participant. Biamp engaged Blink UX to help create a world class meeting room experience. Blink UX — a leading User Experience Research and Design Firm — helped Biamp design and test the user experience and UI for Oreno.
Clockaudio Launches Tri-Element Array Hanging C303-RF MicrophoneClockaudio’s newest is their C303-RF Tri-Element hanging microphone array. Designed for audio- or video- conferencing, the C303 offers consultants and designers a new option when specifying hanging microphones in applications. This new product features three high quality Cardioid capsules covering a 360 degree pick up pattern. Each independent capsule is RF immune, will capture approximately 120 degrees and is optimized for speech intelligibility.
The C303-RF is a non-proprietary microphone array, which makes it easy to install, and also compatible with all popular DSP units. For applications where table microphones are not an option, the C303-RF offers a great alternative to bring the microphone capsules closer to the participant, with a minimal foot print in the conference room.
Revolabs Expands Line of Elite Wired MicrophonesRevolabs today announced the addition of gooseneck microphones to its line of Elite wired microphones. In addition, the full line of wired microphones is now available with mute functionality and status LEDs.
Available in six and 12 inches, the goosenecks come in the same colors — black, white, and brushed nickel — as the company’s directional and omnidirectional wired microphones. The wired microphones are now also available with mute functionality and bicolor status LEDs, which can be managed locally on the microphone or via a connected DSP. With Revolabs, it is now possible to have the same user interface in rooms with wireless microphones and rooms where budget limitations call for wired microphones while keeping the look and functionality of the microphones the same. Compatible with any universal microphone input connection, the microphones allow users to connect instantly to today’s wide array of conference room appliances.
Consisting of omnidirectional tabletop, directional tabletop, and gooseneck models, Revolabs’ Elite wired microphones bring state-of-the-art sound capture to any conferencing or UC application. As a result, participants experience exceptional audio quality that is resistant to GSM noise, in addition to an unmatched signal-to-noise ratio and supported frequency range that creates a best-of-breed audio capture experience for any contemporary meeting space. The products also let integrators easily increase the maximum number of microphones available within a single space while combining wireless flexibility with the security of the wired microphones.
The new Elite wired gooseneck microphones and tabletop microphones with mute functionality and LEDs will begin shipping July 2015. All the details are here.
Bose Professional Expands FreeSpace Amplifier Line with Four New ModelsBose Professional has broadened its FreeSpace amplifier line with a set of four dual-channel amplifiers optimized for premium commercial applications such as retail, restaurants and hospitality. There are two mixer amplifiers (IZA 2120-HZ, IZA 2120-LZ) and two expansion amplifiers (ZA 2120-HZ, ZA 2120-LZ) each at 120 watts per channel. FreeSpace amplifiers can be quickly configured without a PC, enabling each installation to be customized easily and intuitively. In addition, FreeSpace amplifiers offer a range of models and features to enhance any audio installation using Bose FreeSpace loudspeakers.
The IZA models include an integrated audio DSP providing Bose loudspeaker EQ, Bose Dynamic EQ, Opti-voice paging/ducking, audio mixing/routing, bass/treble adjustments, remote control options and an auto standby feature. The ZA models support sound system expansion when using front-end Bose products such as FreeSpace integrated zone amplifiers and ControlSpace engineered sound processors.
For background/foreground music and paging applications, Bose FreeSpace integrated zone amplifiers elevate the audio experience when using FreeSpace loudspeakers. Optimized for commercial applications, FreeSpace IZA amplifiers feature selectable Loudspeaker EQ to enrich audio quality, Opti-voice paging for clear speech intelligibility while providing seamless transitions and Dynamic EQ that ensures full and balanced music at any volume level.
Additionally, the IZA 2120-HZ offers true two-zone capability, providing two independent outputs that each support volume/source selection remotes, EQ, tone controls and paging/auxiliary routing options.
Bose FreeSpace zone amplifiers are designed to provide basic amplification and sound system expansion when using front-end Bose products, such as FreeSpace integrated zone amplifiers and ControlSpace engineered sound processors. ZA zone amplifiers offer excellent audio quality from a reliable, high-quality Class-D amplifier. When connected to an IZA integrated zone amplifier, the ZA zone amplifier allows for easy system expansion. Chained amplifiers will function together as a single expanded system, sharing the same music, paging sources, master volume control and optional loudspeaker equalization. Each ZA zone amplifier comes in a compact, lightweight design for uncomplicated installation in a range of locations.
Listen Technologies Announces New Infrared Language Distribution SystemListen Technologies announced today another IR system in its line of ListenIR solutions. Following the introduction of iDSP IR and the new LT-84 Transmitter/Radiator combo earlier this year — an IR system that revolutionized the approach for a variety of venues — Listen Technologies debuts the new Infrared Language Distribution system. Engineered to be easy to set up, install and use, it saves both time and space to get multilingual language environments up and running faster than ever.
ListenIR Language Distribution System key features:
Compliant to IEC 61603-7 and IEC 60914 standards
Audio input via Dante interface
Small and compact, designed for 1RU space
Web Browser set-up with mobile tablet application
Auto delay compensation built in
Radiator is two-thirds the size of similar powered devices
Lithium Ion, reliable battery technology for receivers
Drag and drop signal/channel configuration
32-channel standard compatible use but can expand up to 40 channels
All ListenIR solutions are designed for quick and easy installation and maintenance. IR products are ideal for assistive listening and language interpretation in boardrooms, courtrooms, or other environments where privacy is important. From small to large venues, Listen Technologies’ systems are built to fit any need in a wide variety of applications. With exceptional coverage, ListenIR is truly the best solution.
The ListenIR Infrared Language Distribution System will be available Q4 2015 with pricing TBA. Details will be here.
Extron Ships Full-Range of SpeedMount Speaker System for Suspended CeilingsExtron is shipping the CS 123T SpeedMount Ceiling Speaker System, a patented low profile, plenum rated two-piece speaker system. It provides a wide 165° conical dispersion for flexibility in speaker spacing. The system is designed for applications where high intelligibility and maximum coverage is desired in paging applications and low ceiling installations. The innovative system consists of the CS 120P plenum rated enclosure and a CS 3T full-range speaker cartridge. The enclosure installs quickly into 2’x2′ (600×600 millimeter) suspended ceilings. The speaker cartridge features a 3″ full-range driver, and can be used in 70/100 volt or 8 ohm operation. The CS 123T is available as a complete assembly, or the CS 120P and CS 3T can be purchased separately to accommodate division-of-labor installations.
The CS 123T is available as a complete assembly including a pair of CS 120P enclosures and a pair of CS 3T full-range speaker cartridges. The enclosures and speaker cartridges can also be purchased in pairs separately, so they can be delivered to low-voltage and AV system contractors.
The CS 120P plenum enclosure installs quickly into 2’x2′ or metric 600×600 millimeter suspended ceiling grids. It features a shallow 5″ (12.7 centimeter) profile, which simplifies installation into congested ceiling spaces around piping and ducts. The integrated tile bridge of the enclosure rests on the ceiling tile above the grid, evenly distributing the weight of the CS 120P and the CS 3T speaker cartridge. This avoids the need to assemble V-rails and C-rings, greatly reducing the number of installation steps and the chances of losing installation hardware.
The CS 3T speaker cartridge features a 3″ (7.6 centimeter) full-range driver, and can be used in 70/100 volt or 8 ohm operation with a behind-the-grille, six position power selector switch. The cartridge installs quickly and easily into the CS 120P enclosure. The CS 3T delivers full-range audio reproduction and a wide conical dispersion of 165 degrees for vocal clarity and broad coverage. The CS 3T is optimized for voice reproduction and paging applications. It features a power rating of 16 watts continuous pink noise and 32 watts continuous program capacity. The CS 3T features a magnetically attached grille and a thin-edged bezel for a refined appearance on the ceiling.
ClearOne Expands CONVERGE Matrix Line with New 64×64 and 128×128 Channel Network Audio SolutionsClearOne has released two new models in its CONVERGE Matrix line of Dante-based network audio distribution solutions, to complement its larger scale 256- and 512-channel mixers and routers, delivering a complete product lineup to accommodate a full spectrum of system sizes and applications.
Every CONVERGE Matrix mixer is easy to manage, provides complete system redundancy and leverages a hybrid systems approach with room endpoints, shared DSP processing, and centralized DSP matrix mixing, routing, and distribution. This unique architecture from ClearOne increases the scalability and reliability of networked voice and sound applications without any distance limitations, and is suitable for small, medium and large projects using existing IP infrastructure.
The CONVERGE Matrix family was designed with existing deployments in mind and to allow Dante networking and Matrix mixers to be added to previously installed audio systems, or implemented from scratch and optimized for any application. Each CONVERGE Matrix system comes equipped with a base level of channels, which can be increased using field-installable expansion cards, to add 64×64, 128×128 or 256×256 Dante audio channels to the corresponding main units.
BTX Announces New BookIT Room Scheduling SolutionBTX Technologies announced today that they are entering the room scheduling market with BookIT. BookIT will debut at InfoComm 2015 and will be available for sale in Q3 2015.
With BookIT, a meeting can be quickly scheduled using the touch panel display at the conference room site, a computer from an office or a mobile device. It’s integrated with the most popular scheduling programs including MS Exchange, Office 365 and Google Apps for Work, ensuring availability of the room and the people needed to host a successful meeting.
The BookIT system includes a sleek 7″ PoE touch panel device, simple wall mounting system with brackets and scheduling software. It features simple meeting check-in, extension and release of room, alternative room options, one cable installation per display and an intuitive interface which requires little to no training.
AV Stumpfl Launches 4K Wings EngineAV Stumpfl announced its next generation Wings Engine that allows an operator’s system can be distributed over multiple physical machines. This means that multiple operators to control specific elements of a show. New multi-timeline and multi-master design enables ‘hot backups’ to be saved for critical jobs.
The new 64-bit architecture software core includes native support for professional GPU functions. Processing is achieved on GPUs saving valuable server memory and other resources. This new server allows for playback of up to three streams of 4K image sequences at up to 60fps per stream in real-time using smart and clever software design.
The server hosts AV Stumpfl’s next generation media platform available for fixed or live environments. A dedicated operating system which is based on the robust Windows Embedded platform. The operating system however features a dedicated operator desktop which shows no Windows elements but only AV Stumpfl’s proprietary functions such as a built in EDID manager, Backup & Restore and other system functions.
Kramer to Launch Classroom SystemAt InfoComm, Kramer will unveil a wireless classroom solution that combines Kramer’s VIA Wireless Presentation and Collaboration solutions, Kramer K-Touch 3.0 Cloud-based control platform and Kramer HDMI/HDBaseT signal distribution in a packaged configuration.
Called the Kramer Collaborative Classroom the hub is their VIA Connect PRO for small group collaboration at tables or huddle spaces. Kramer’s K-Touch 3.0 control system, integrated with Kramer’s VIA Collage, allows the teacher to control and manage local group displays. The teacher can share local displays instantly with any other group or the entire class or even turn them on and off. Anyone can easily use K-Touch 3.0 with any iOS or Android tablet.
For a classroom with 25 students, the Kramer Collaborative Classroom would include up to five VIA Connect PROs, one VIA Collage, K-Touch 3.0 control, a Kramer VS-88DT HDMI/HDBaseT switcher, and Kramer HDMI/HDBaseT range extenders.
Crestron Adds Microsoft Surface Hub Meeting Room PackagesCrestron has extended the meeting room experience for Surface Hub users by natively integrating Microsoft’s large format collaboration device with Crestron control technology. The solution is available in two complete turnkey packages, plus optional accessories.
Built on the Crestron .AV Framework platform, these packages designed for Surface Hub deployments can be configured from Crestron’s TSW touch screen, without any programming. The integrated solution pairs an award winning, enterprise standard Crestron DigitalMedia Presentation System (DMPS), TSW touch screen, TSS scheduling touch screen and a set of USB Extenders with Surface Hub to add the flexibility of complete room control right from the conference table or Surface Hub, including the ability to:
Display any content on the Surface Hub from any device anywhere in the room or enterprise
Pass touch functionality from the Surface Hub to touch-compatible connected devices
Present HD and Ultra High Definition 4K video
Launch Windows 10 apps on the Surface Hub from the table touch screen
Adjust room and environmental settings including shades, lights and temperature using Crestron’s app on the Surface Hub or from the Crestron TSW touch screen
Book and schedule meetings from the Crestron TSS touch screen just outside the room
Perform centralized enterprise room management, monitoring and control
Crestron offers a total of two base packages including options optimized for either the 55 inch Surface Hub, or the 84 inch Surface Hub which is Crestron 4K Certified, for a total of four configurations. All solutions are “Crestron Certified Designs.”
Package 1 includes a DMPS 4K presentation system, a TSW 7 inch tabletop touch screen for room control, a Crestron Connect It cable caddie for wired connectivity and simple source selection at the table, cables, and a TSS 7 inch touch screen for outside the room scheduling.
Package 2 includes everything in Package 1, and adds a Crestron AirMedia for enhanced multi-platform BYOD wireless presentation capability, and a second Crestron Connect It (TT-100) enabling increased capacity for wired connectivity.
FSR’s HuddleVU Offers Adds Features, Offers New Mini-VU ModelFSR’s HuddleVU Collaboration system is designed as a meeting room system where users can share and view their multiple inputs; laptops, tablets, and smart phones, on a single or multiple displays. When FSR’s new DV-MFMV-74 DV PRO — MultiVU — Seven Input Multi-Format Windowing Scaler is integrated with the HuddleVU FLEX System. it creates a seven-input/user system that has a windowing 4Kx2K output with seamless switching and easy integration with all HuddleVU Collaboration Furniture.
The HuddleVU’s switcher line is rounded out with the availability of collaboration solutions where only two inputs are needed. FSR’s new DV-HSW-21A 2×1 HDMI switcher and the DV-MFSW-21A is a HDMI + VGA & Audio to HDMI switcher integrate with one FSR T3 table box for small collaboration or huddle kiosk-type solutions. To compliment these new smaller offerings, FSR is proud to now offer the Mini-VU Small Group Collaboration Table for two to four users/inputs while the larger tables are built to accommodate 4, 5, 6 or 7 users/inputs. All tables are available in counter or table height and can be used with or without the vertical back panel for mounting displays. The Mini-VU is crafted furniture designed for collaboration, functionality, and form. If time is a concern, stock models are available, or a furniture finish from the Wilsonart Line of Quality laminates can be chosen for a custom table.
EIKI Launches 14K Lumen, 3-Chip DLP Projector at InfoCommEiki International announced the new EIP-UJT100 DLP WUXGA (1920×1200) projector at InfoComm. Spec’d at 14,000 ANSI Lumens, the EIP-UJT100 is a 3-chip DLP (three 0.96-inch DMD DLP chips) projector with four digital inputs (HDMI/DisplayPort), HDBaseT and 3G HD-SDI.
With its support for DICOM Simulation mode, the EIP-UJT100 is well designed for viewing grayscale images such as X-rays — making it ideally suited for use in medical training and educational applications. Optional lenses cover a range of 0.67 to 6.96:1 throw ratios and it includes built-in Edge Blending, Image Warping and Corner Keystone Correction.
Sony Launches Three New Business ProjectorsSony is adding three new models to its line of professional projectors aimed at both the corporate and education markets. The new compact (well, relatively) projectors include the VPL-EW348, VPL-EW345 and VPL-EX345 models. Each model is specified at 4,200 lumens and uses a new BrightEra 3LCD panel (WXGA 0.75”, XGA 0.63” size).
The VPL-EW348 model has a built-in HDBaseT interface 5Play including video, audio, control and IP over a single Cat5e/6 cable for up to 328 feet (100m). Each model also has two HDMI ports for expanded connectivity with digital devices in the professional A/V market space.
The new models are designed to extend lamp life and reduce total cost of operations, delivering optimum energy efficiency and low power consumption. Lamp life can be extended to up to approximately 10,000 hours, depending on the lamp mode selected. Other energy efficient functions include Sony’s auto lamp dimming function, where the projector intelligently detects if it is left powered on with a static signal being fed. When a static signal is detected, the lamp can be dimmed to a specified percent of original brightness after certain time intervals set by the user.
Through the network presentation and remote control functions, a tablet or smartphone can control the projectors. Each model has a 16W speaker and is designed for silent operation, with a low of 29dB and high of 35dB. An input label function helps users clearly organize connected equipment.
The following is planned availability for the new models:
Hitachi Intros Four Ultra-Short-Throw LCD ProjectorsHitachi America announced the introduction of its CP-AX2505, CP-AX3505, CP-AW2505 and CP-AW3005 LCD projectors — all ultra-short-throw 3LCD designs that feature 10,000:1 contrast ratio. The CP-AX2505 and CP-AX3505 are XGA1024x768 resolution and 2,700 and 3,600 ANSI lumens, respectively, while the CP-AW2505 and CP-AW3005 are WXGA 1280×800 resolution projectors with 2,700 and 3,300 ANSI lumens brightness.
Like most projectors these days, these models can display content from either a wired or wireless connection (using an optional available wireless adapter) using a computer, USB stick or A/V source. Inputs include two HDMI inputs, VGA and, USB Type A and USB Type B ports, a composite video input and audio inputs and outputs.
All four are Ultra Short Throw projectors that feature a “Template” function that makes writing on a whiteboard easier and an optional tabletop stand allows the projectors to project images directly onto a tabletop.
AMX Intros New HydraPort Touch
At InfoComm, AMX launched the AMX HydraPort Touch — combining an AMX HydraPort with an ultra-slim AMX Modero S Series Touch Panel. The touch panel folds to hide into tables and accepts the MyTurn Source Selectors.
The new HydraPort Touch integrates a HydraPort chassis with a 10″ or 7″ Modero S Touch Panel and, when closed, the unit sits flush with the table top. Connector modules include:
USB 3.0
A 4K@60 HDMI, DisplayPort, and Mini DisplayPort
Cat6 Ethernet
VGA
HydraPort uses AMX’s new MyTurn Source Selector solution. Press a MyTurn button and meeting participants are able to switch the display to show their source content. And, the MyTurn solution can be scaled to up to eight simultaneous users supported with each receiver deployed. When used with an AMX Solecis Digital Switcher, MyTurn offers a simple switching solution that can be implemented with no programming. All of the new HydraPort RCMs and standalone cables are MyTurn-ready.
Extron Intros New 4K Presentation Matrix Switcher with Seamless SwitchingExtron has launched a new DTP CrossPoint 108 4K presentation matrix switcher. The DTP CrossPoint 108 4K includes a 10×8 matrix switcher with 4K inputs and outputs, four built-in 4K scalers (powered by Extron Vector 4K scaling technology) seamless switching and logo insertion, integrated DTP and XTP signal extension, audio DSP and AEC capabilities, a mono or stereo amplifier and an advanced control processor that is expandable.
The DTP CrossPoint 108 4K can immediately be integrated with the latest 4K sources and displays. Four built-in Vector 4K scalers are paired to the DTP outputs and enable independent scaling up to 4K. Extron says their new Vector 4K scaling engine is specifically designed with best-in-class image upscaling and downscaling, with 30-bit processing (most are 10-bit at best). The DTP twisted pair inputs and outputs provide flexibility in distributing AV and control. 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. Customize scaled outputs using the professional source transitions that are available, or insert a custom logo into the background or foreground.
The integrated audio DSP technology features all of the audio processing tools and capabilities of a fully equipped, professional outboard DSP (like the Extron DMP 128). The DTP CrossPoint 108 4K also includes four independent channels of high performance AEC for conferencing applications. A unique digital audio expansion port links the internal DSP to a DMP 128 for expanded I/O capacity to support additional microphones or speaker destinations. Additionally, the built-in mono or stereo 100 watt amplifier features the same Extron core technologies found in the renowned ENERGY STAR qualified XTRA Series, delivering high energy efficiency and professional grade audio performance.
DTP CrossPoint 108 4K IPCP models feature an integrated Extron IP Link Pro control processor, with the advanced features, processing power, and breakthrough technologies found in the standalone Extron IPCP Pro 350 control processor. This allows for complete, customizable control of an entire AV system. The purchase of an Extron LinkLicense with the DTP CrossPoint 108 4K IPCP allows a tablet or laptop to serve as the primary control interface for the AV system.
Kramer Announces New VIA ReleasesKramer last week launched three new VIA products: VIA PAD, an instant-present USB touch device,VIA Site Management (an IT software solution for VIA administrators) and collaboration software enhancements for VIA Collage and VIA Connect PRO.
VIA Collage is Kramer’s wireless BYOD meeting solution for any size meeting space. VIA Connect PRO offers wireless BYOD solutions for collaboration in mid-sized meeting rooms and huddle spaces.
Now, VIA Site Management (VSM) has been added to the VIA family of solutions. VIA Site Management is an IT software solution that lets administrators view and manage multiple VIA rooms within the same network. Administrators can easily and remotely monitor each device, configure and manage software updates, check each device’s status, perform resets, and more.
VIA PAD, Kramer’s new external USB touch device for Mac and PC, lets VIA Collage and VIA Connect PRO users present on the main display with a touch of a finger. Users can also present content by pressing “Step-in” inside the VIA app.
Finally, Kramer’s VIA v1.7 software update introduces 4K-UHD output for VIA Collage. VIA Collage users can present 4K-UHD content with compatible 4K-UHD displays. In addition, iOS mirroring has been added to VIA Connect PRO. VIA v1.7 includes instant file sharing with any iOS or Android device and a Do Not Disturb mode. Do Not Disturb (“DND”) mode lets someone who is presenting keep another participant from stepping in to present.
Crestron Expands DigitalMedia With Three New 4K Presentation SwitchersCrestron is demonstrating three 4K presentation switchers that they say can be set up in just minutes without any custom programming: the HD-MD8X1-4K 4K Scaling Presentation Switcher, the DM-MD8X1-4K-C 4K Scaling Presentation Switcher with HDBaseT Output, DMPS3-4K-150-C 3-Series 4K DigitalMedia Presentation System 150.
Based on the DMP3-4K-150-C, the HD-MD8X1-4K provides up to eight inputs and has a built-in 4K scaler can convert any resolution to any other resolution, up to 4096×2160.
The 4K Scaling Presentation Switcher with HDBaseT Output (DM-MD8X1-4K-C) has the features of the HD-MD8X1-4K, plus a mic input and a DM output, so HDBaseT can be run to the room display. It’s the perfect fit for rooms larger than a huddle space.
The DMPS3-4K-150-C is designed for classrooms, small and medium conference rooms as well as and huddle spaces. It adds a 3-Series Control System and two DM inputs for a 10×1 4K switching solution, and can be used with either .AV Framework or SIMPL Windows for custom programming.
DVIGear Introduces DisplayNetDVIGear is launching something called DisplayNet at InfoComm 2015. DVIGear describes DisplayNet as “AV distribution that uses off-the-shelf 10GbE Ethernet technology to switch, extend and distribute AV signals.”
The transmitter (DN-100TX) accepts multiple signals such as HDMI (with embedded audio and HDCP), analog stereo audio, bidirectional IR, RS232, and 1GbE and transmits them over a 10GbE link up to 328 feet. (100 meters) using a single Cat6a or Cat7 cable. This link is then distributed via an off-the-shelf 10GbE network switch to the receiver unit (DN-100RX), which provides all the signals for output at the destination.
DVIGear says it supports uncompressed video up to 4K/30p (4:4:4) and 4K/60p (4:2:0) with no artifacts and zero frame latency. Video signals may be simultaneously routed in Point-to-Point, Matrix Switching, Video Wall and MultiViewer (coming 2016) modes all in the same system. For more flexibility, each signal type (Video, Audio, IR, RS-232, etc.) is treated as a separate switching layer that can be routed independently. The DN-100 Series includes control software and APIs to enable these units to be integrated into new or existing systems. The DN-100 Series transmitter and receiver will begin shipping September 2015 at a suggested retail price of less than $1,000 per endpoint.
Barco Tackles 4K in New Line of High-End Media ServersBarco today announces the launch of its XPR range of high-end 4K media servers. Together with the XHD range launched last February, these complete the Barco Media Servers range. The Barco Media Servers range will be available in three versions: the XHD-200, XHD-400 and the brand-new XPR-600. The XHD series are shipping now, whereas the XPR series will ship from end of September 2015 onwards.
The XHD and XPR media servers pack all the tools needed to cover video professionals’ entire workflow, from design through to operation. Intuitive controls facilitate user-friendly operation, even with multi-screen set-ups. A short learning curve results in substantial savings on both time and money. In fact, it only takes a half-day of training for anyone to become an expert at complex 3D projection mapping and create sophisticated interactive projects without any external assistance.
Barco Media Servers are equipped with the Projection Study tool, a powerful solution that allows users to design a 3D projection mapping of a building or any other surface and subsequently show the optimal projector set-up locations and lens options in a matter of minutes. Furthermore, 3D design capability and visualization allows preview and adjustment of both pre-rendered and real-time content and deploying it in physical space. This results in quicker projector set-up and execution, leading to dramatically reduced costs. Additionally, the entire show can be tested before show time and ideas can be sold to customers before actually building anything.
Barco’s media server hardware comes standard with the X-Agora software suite. Fully scalable and compatible with all popular media formats, the suite supports connectivity with various input types and controls. An advanced, yet easy-to use projection mapping tool makes it possible to deploy content onto the most challenging of surfaces. The latest software release now also adds connectivity with market standards, DMX using ArtNet and CITP. The media system captures and processes data in real time, thus creating interactive content for various types of displays, even at resolutions beyond 4K. Barco Media Servers provide a scalable platform where multiple servers can be linked together and synchronized down to the millisecond.
Epiphan Announces AV.io HD — an Easy-to-use HDMI Video GrabberEpiphan Video just unveiled the AV.io HD — something they are calling a video grabber that lets you capture video from HDMI, DVI and VGA sources.
AV.io HD is a video capture device that lets anyone easily connect their device with a HDMI, DVI or VGA output, including cameras, laptops, tablets, projectors, game consoles, and embedded devices to a computer running Windows, Mac, or Linux without the need to install any additional drivers or add-ons. Just like a webcam, when plugged in, AV.i o appears as a video source, making it compatible with virtually any software, including Skype, Wirecast and QuickTime.
Like other products from Epiphan Video, AV.io HD is able to capture crystal-clear Full HD video (1080p) at 60 frames per second with near-zero latency and ultra-high reliability. Small enough to fit in the palm of your hand, yet entirely enclosed in an all-aluminum casing, AV.io HD is the perfect companion for video capture anytime, anywhere, and from any video source.
Stewart Filmscreen Takes Aim at Install Market with Non-Tensioned Motorized ElectriScreens Designed for Boardrooms, Classrooms and HOW
Stewart Filmscreen’s new line of Cima NT non-tensioned motorized projector screens will launch at InfoComm 2015 next week. Stewart says the new Cima NT above- or below-ceiling ElectriScreen models deliver the durability, image quality and aesthetics that Stewart is known far but at more competitive, budget-friendly price points.
Designed and manufactured in the USA by Stewart Filmscreen and available in standard sizes and aspect ratios from 92 to 164 inches (diagonal), Cima NT ElectriScreens are designed for boardrooms, classrooms, and houses of worship.
The Cima NT AC ElectriScreen is a non-tensioned above ceiling ElectriScreen, whereas the Cima NT BC ElectriScreen is a non-tensioned below ceiling ElectriScreen. All Cima NT models feature Stewart’s proprietary adjustable black drop. Every screen will include additional black masking that can be reset at the job site. This makes specification much simpler.
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