Volume 12, Issue 24 — December 17, 2015
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Editorial Editorial Editorial
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Industry News Audio Control & Signal Processing Media Players, Recording & Distribution Unified Collaborative Conferencing Lighting Cables, Cases, Furniture, Mounts, Racks, Screens & Accessories
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The Case Study: An AV Integrator’s Best Marketing Tool
By Gary Kayye rAVe Founder
I’ve been teaching a Marketing 101 class at InfoComm for a few years now. And, ADVICE #1 to my students is: Publish case studies.
But, I continue to be amazed at how few AV dealers market their services this way. They’ll spend thousands developing a cool logo, hire interns to use social media, place ads in local business journals, pay web developers to beef up their websites and even still advertise in the Yellow Pages.
Yet, they won’t use the FREE’est (and best) marketing tool they have — using case studies to show what they can do!
Sure, some do, most don’t. Easily 95 percent of AV integrators have either never published a case study or have only done one in the last 5-years.
And, yes, I know the excuses — but, let’s talk truths:
1. The case study should be your PRIMARY way of gaining new business. You see, anyone can say they do AV integration, anyone. And, unfortunately, it’s easy to become a dealer of most AV products sold today — heck, even Amazon sells a ton. But, the differentiator is what you an actually do. Case studies prove your capabilities, show off your worksmanship, are problem/solution oriented (i.e., simple to understand) and are visual — assuming you realize that the best case studies have photos.
2. Yes, professional photography is expensive. But, that’s stupid. Don’t use a professional photographer — use your iPhone. Seriously, it’s good enough. Most of the case studies will not be looked at in print; they’re shown via the web. And, you know the average web resolution of your browser? Well, in case you didn’t know, currently, 68 percent of people browsing the Internet do it at a resolution of 1024×768. And, the other 30-some percent, are MOSTLY at a lower resolution than that. You know the resolution of the camera on an iPhone 5? It’s 3264×2448 — yes, that’s the truth. Oh, and that’s a three-year old phone. Do you know what the resolution of an iPhone 6s camera is? It’s like 4000×3000. Seriously! It’s 4K. So, forget the fancy, expensive, over complicated photography. Use you dang iPhone.
3. Oh, yeah, the client has to give you approval. That’s an EASY problem to solve: just put that in the PROPOSAL, up-front. Tell the client, up-front, that you want to use this as a case study (do it in ALL your proposals). Sure, 10 percent of them might say no but that leaves you 90 percent. I am sure 90 percent represents enough good quality work for you to show off and for POTENTIAL clients to see your capabilities.
4. Speaking of potential clients, case studies spark ideas. How many clients are walking in right now asking for a “digital-canvas” or for their conference room to be multi-image capable? Hardly any. You know why? You can’t ask for something you don’t know exists. And, if you don’t tell them it exists, I promise you they won’t buy it from you.
5. So, now you have a case study, where do you publish it? Well, on your own website, of course. Don’t have a place to publish it on your website, or, costs too much to pay your webmaster to do it? Then, go get a FREE Medium blog and post it there. Sure, link it to your website, but, more importantly, use social media to blast it out there. OK, I understand that you may not understand the art of social media marketing, but we at rAVe do and we have been publishing a blog series (for months now) called “It’s Social Marketing” that will teach you everything you need to know about Social Media Marketing — and it’s free!
So, what are you waiting for! Use case studies to market your AV potential!
Images via this BrightSign case study Leave a Comment
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How Often Do Your Proposals Result in a Sale?
By Omar Prashad rAVe Blogger
As integrators, how many of us know exactly what it costs for each proposal we produce? I don’t have any empirical data, but from having had the privilege of doing this for almost 15 years, my anecdotal answer would be: very few. I know, I know — everyone thinks his own are great and his ‘way of doing it’ is leap-years beyond what the competition is doing. I beg to differ: The only thing that matters is the value perceived by the customer and 99 percent of the proposals I see are what I call ‘Look at me’ documents. We have to stop what we’re doing and put ourselves in the customer’s shoes.
What if we change our thinking for a minute and consider the cost of producing a proposal? Through the lens of cost perhaps I can inspire you to change your ways. Let’s think about the cost of producing a proposal as three separate buckets.
In the first bucket, we have the basic tangible physical costs of producing a proposal. These are things as basic as the cost of paper, marketing materials and printer ink. It’s easy to figure out how full the first bucket is; these are all costs that as integrators we understand and that are so miniscule that we don’t really need to consider them (unless any of you out there are delivering proposals on gold-leaf in which case we need to have an entirely different conversation). In the next bucket are our labor input costs. How much actual time does the account manager have invested in meeting the customer and creating the opportunity? How much time does our engineering team take in designing the proposed solution? Although these are proposal input costs that could be easily calculated, the reality is they often aren’t. The last bucket is the one that most integrators don’t consider at all, and it’s the one that has the biggest potential cost impact: the opportunity costs. Our most valuable resource is time; dedicating the time to create, deliver and follow up on a proposal means that we don’t have time to do something else. Opportunity costs represent a choice, choosing one activity over another and choosing one potential customer over another.
Using this ‘buckets’ framework, without even considering opportunity costs (which are difficult to quantify), producing a typical proposal probably costs somewhere around $200 – $400. A larger, more complex system can have proposal costs that climb well over $1,000 and even upwards of $10,000. Not a large sum on its own for most of the proposals that are being created, but when you consider that most integrators track and subconsciously incentivize sales teams on ‘net new opportunities generated’ or worse yet ‘number of proposals delivered,’ the costs of proposals can really add up. For the most part people do what they are measured on. This can lead to a system where our sales teams will put a proposal out to any warm body without properly qualifying and understanding the customer’s needs.
The first step is to change our thinking from proposal quantity to proposal quality. So the question becomes how do we create and deliver proposals that have a higher chance of acceptance? Most of the customer-facing proposals that I see are at one of two extremes. Either a proposal is a detailed parts list with line item pricing and no more, or a proposal is a comprehensive 40+ page dissertation that would rival the reading material burden for most graduate level MBA programs. The truth is both of these versions are actively losing you more business than they are winning.
Let’s take the encyclopedic version first. The problems here are what I’ll call kitchen sink-esque: The integrator includes every single piece of potentially relevant information that it has ever produced, from case studies to awards to resumes of key personnel to fancy cover pages signed by company executives. But length isn’t even the core issue here, it’s that everything is delivered from the perspective of the integrator, not the customer. It is all about how great we are, what we have done, our history, our certification and our achievements and awards. Here is a cold hard truth that many of you will struggle to believe: Our customers don’t care about that stuff. They care about what we can do for them, how we can improve their outcomes and how we provide them value unique to their needs. I consider great references, certifications and all of that other junk basic table stakes. You need them to get access to the game but once you’re at the point of proposal, it doesn’t matter anymore. We are selling technology that in theory is supposed to make our customers lives better, easier and faster. Do you really think that any of our customers are actually reading the entire proposal dissertation? Do you really think that the busy executive budget sponsor in your Fortune 500 account is looking at any of it?
Side note — in the context of an RFP, this sort of proposal diarrhea may be required. Although I don’t believe that responding to RFPs is a legitimate strategy for sustained and profitable growth (another one of those topics for another day).
On the other end of the spectrum, you’ve got the proposal as a one-page parts list that almost always uses very technical equipment descriptions and AV industry acronyms. On a personal note, I loathe those in our family of integrators that are still delivering a detailed parts list as the only component of their customer proposals (and while I’m a huge advocate for not delivering a detailed parts list at all within the context of a well presented proposal, it’s much less offensive). Those that are doing this, please help the AV industry out and stop immediately. We spend so much time thinking about and talking about strategies to differentiate ourselves in pro AV, how to move ourselves away from being seen as movers of product and how to show our customers that we’re valued partners (instead of transactional vendors). Every time a one-page parts list proposal is delivered to a customer, our entire industry is being pulled backwards. Let’s think about it from another perspective. We’ve all bought cars. Have you ever bought a car where on the proposal was every nut, bolt, belt and washer that went into making the car? The last time you bought a laptop was every microchip, wire and connector detailed? And when you buy a house, does the invoice itemize every nail, screw, sheet of drywall and shingle? Obviously the answer is no — we buy those things because of what they do for us as consumers. They fill a need that we have, one that’s Gestaltist (the whole being greater than the sum of its parts). Isn’t an integrated AV system the very definition of this?
So what are some actionable items that we can take as integrators to increase the likelihood of our system proposals being accepted? Here are some quick tips on how to produce proposals that have a higher chance of resulting in business. It will often take a strategic shift in priorities, and it will definitely take some effort, but let’s remember that we’re not in the business of proposal writing — we’re in the business of delivering impactful AV systems for our customers.
- The entire proposal needs to be from the perspective of the customer – What it does for the customer, what value it provides, and how it addresses her very specific need. I call this the project value proposition, which is separate from the scope of work and should be the first thing the customer sees in the proposal.
- The power of options – This is a topic for another day, but the gist of it is providing the customer options that changes her thought process from, ‘Should I hire them?’ to ‘How should I engage with them?’
- Scope of Work – A non-technical, simplified narrative on how the system will operate. Give it to your 11 year old son, if he doesn’t understand what the system will do, your scope is ineffective.
And most importantly, don’t ever deliver a proposal to a customer without first having an agreed upon and scheduled time to meet with her and review. If I was going to deliver a proposal on a Tuesday, I would first make sure that I had a meeting scheduled with the customer on Friday morning at 10 a.m. to discuss and review (this is a specific time and meeting, ‘I’ll call you on Friday to follow up’ isn’t sufficient). Don’t throw the proposal out there into the black hole. As I mentioned earlier, as the integrator, we assume a costly and time consuming burden to design the system and produce a proposal. We are partners with our customers, we need them (for obvious reasons), and we have to remember that they need us – the relationship is always that of equals. If we’re going to invest time in designing a system that fulfills their needs, we need to have mutual expectations of the partnership. One of those is a scheduled meeting time to follow-up and review the proposal. In my world, if the customer won’t commit to that, we won’t produce a proposal for them. Remember opportunity costs — our time is better spent on customers who understand that our relationship is that of a partners.
Too many integration firms boast proudly of their fantastic proposals, of which the content was unfortunately often written by owners, managers and executives that are furthest away from the customer and who don’t understand that our only purpose as integrators should be to solve a customer’s unique needs (which often have to be translated from the ‘wants’ that they communicate). Everyone should be proud of his own firm’s accomplishments; we’ve all done some really fantastic work. But in the context of the customer proposal, remember the only thing that our customers really care about is how we will fulfill their needs.
It’s not about us… it’s all about them. Leave a Comment
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Five Reasons AV Needs to Become More IT
By Max Kopsho rAVe Blogger
Last week, I read a very good article titled The Five Reasons Why AV is Not IT by Ernie Beck. The article discussed in a very compelling way how AV has considerable value in systems integration and will continued to for a long time to come. One of the great points in this article is that for the integrators and systems design engineers that embrace their true value add there is plenty of value in their contribution and still plenty of business to be had. There was a theme of “don’t sell yourself short.” In the article/blog I am writing here I intend on building on that necessary message for all AV systems integrators to maintain the message that they own the physical space and no IT integrator or reseller can match the user experience they can bring. What I intend to add is the need-to-know five reasons that AV integrators should consider transitioning their business to include an IT integration element along with maintaining the value (the core competency) in acoustics, lighting, control and space planning.
Firstly, I would like to emphasize the importance of what Ernie said in his article. There is incredible value in the core offerings AV integrators already have. Yes, I am championing for AV integrators to embrace IT in bigger ways than just adding endpoints and getting a list of IP addresses from the IT guy. I am even asking AV integrators to move beyond traversing firewalls for videoconferencing and to embrace an enterprise IT integration mindset and to learn and deploy IT in much deeper ways than many of them ever have. There is a lot more to this transition than some will have you believe. This requires employing and/or partnering with a whole new set of skill, experience and knowledge. There is no halfhearted effort here. The major caution I will add is that systems integrators should not try to use their internal IT guy as the crux of their entry into this market space. Providing the level of expertise that is required to fully consult and integrate these solutions is far beyond what the typical internal IT support team can muster. This must be a focused and concerted effort by the integrator and should not be taken on as a side project.
Another point I will make before getting into the meat of this article is that AV integrators should not downplay the value IT brings to the table as well. While I thoroughly enjoyed the article about the 5 ways AV is not IT, I will say that there was a bit of downplay when it came to the role of IT. The statement that Ernie attributes to an AV pro where “IT typically establishes and dictates” is a little broad and quite frankly wrong. IT, as does any other design/build integration or solutions provider does, goes through a complete needs analysis. There is no doubt that IT is 100 percent driven by user needs and business needs. IT has the added challenge of having a highly regulated industry and a well standardize technology and infinitely wide marketspace. IT spends nearly 100 percent of their time focusing on the business needs and how they can help their end users support those needs. IT is under high scrutiny to maintain uptime. So, yes some of the implementation is dictated, but the solution is user driven. AV integrators need to let go of the IT Ivory Tower mindset — that is old school and counterproductive. I was an IT director 18 years ago and my favorite phrase was “not on my network,” but that was then. Today I have two kids who are in IT. I have learned that today it is much different. Today when a user asks, “Can I put this on the network?”, (about iPad, tablet, smartphone, etc.) the IT person will respond, “Yes, of course, how can you be productive without it?” IT deals with needs that are driven by end user just as AV does. Both markets must spend time and take on the challenge of determining the difference between wants and needs.
So, why should AV make this transition to be more IT? Below you will find the five reasons that AV integrators should making the transition into becoming more IT:
- Products and Solutions are Being Driven to IT — AVB, Dante, VOIP, H.264, H.265 and many other standards are driving technology development. This development is leading the AV industry down the path of being incredibly more IT centric. The challenge lies in that knowledge of streaming protocols, multicast implementation, layer 2 and layer 3 switching requirements and many other standards and implementation requirements are often unknown to standard IT people. The ways AV leverages IT are different than IT is used to and the value an AV integrator can bring can be considerable if they bring this specialization. It has been said recently that we are not in the AV business, we are in the technology business. It is time to grow into the IT side, this is where AV can shine and add a lot of value in IT.
- End Users and Buyers Expectations are Evolving — Many times a connection between what an end users sees at home or out in the market in many other segments lets them see what should or could be done for them in their boardroom or conference rooms and meetings spaces. The mentality becomes “if they can do this (insert technical feat accomplished in home) why can’t they do that (insert technical feat done in office)” or “if this works and that works then why can’t they make this plus that?” The knowledge and complexity of the end user and their expectations drive us as a market to deliver on a higher level. An additional challenge is that with these increased expectations is that AV has hit somewhat of a critical mass. AV can’t deliver much more than they already are without leveraging the network or the use of some new technology.
- IT is Looking Outwardly for Expertise — In 2015 there was a considerable shift in IT where the IT Generalist was the top growing level of certification and the top job position being filled/sought by recruiters. IT departments, strategist and hiring managers have recently realized that they need people with a broader understanding of IT and that they could then later deploy specialized skills only when needed. This shows us that IT now has a better understanding of when to bring in outside resources to solve unique problems. AV/IT integration is still a very unique problem that AV integrators can be that specialized force that IT is looking for.
- IT is Lower Cost and IT is a Different Funding Source — I will write an entirely different article on the details of this in the near future, but suffice it to say that AV ports tend to run about $350 per port for switching and a Gigabit Ethernet ports run $25 to $30 for switching. Traditionally AV has found its funding through facilities. The beauty of IT is that IT has a completely separate budget and as long as you can prove the business need and the increase in profitability and productivity then that budget is easily and justifiably invested into AV/IT.
- Increased Functionality — Simply by adding AV over IT one can route their video from anywhere to anywhere using the network infrastructure. Control and full integration is seamless. This is far beyond seeing every device and controlling it over the network. This is fully converged where data, AV and control all reside on the same network (segmented via VLANs or whatnot) and when the customer needs they can have AV and data (say a video call with customer information on the same screen). This can be deployed in unbelievable ways to bring a whole new world of AV/IT solutions. In addition to the freedom in routing one can add functionalities such as video wall processing, windowing, control, and recording and much more simply by adding AV/IT appliances to the network.
I agree with the mention in other articles that we are far from a doom and gloom “change or die” message, but I will say change or miss the biggest opportunity in business in a very long time. Businesses live and die on one simple truth, “Do the customers need what you have?” This is one of the times in AV history that our customers absolutely need what we have if we combine our skills in AV and IT.
The last thought I will leave you with is that in every “convergence war” IT has engaged they have won. This is true for nurse call systems, security systems, telephony to VOIP and many others. That is not to say that IT does nothing but throw their weight around and force implementation on users whether it has value or not. IT has won every convergence war because it has always proven to be more cost effective, provide more features and has a higher level of supportability. The IT watchwords are security, reliability, scalability, flexibility and affordability. IT has proven that all of these watchwords hold true when you combine AV and IT. To me that says the war is well underway. Where do you want to be on the battlefield? I for one want to be a peacemaker and provide win-win scenarios for my company and moreover my customers.
Next week I will try to address the top ways to make the AV to AV/IT transition. As a teaser I am including a link to an article where this discussion started and from which I would like to pick up and take much further. Leave a Comment
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Jetbuilt Launches International Version of Popular AV Estimating SoftwareJetbuilt launched the US version of its web-based AV proposal software in June 2015 at InfoComm. Integrators from Africa, South America, Canada, the UK and other locations gravitated to the Jetbuilt solution for easy, accurate proposals with elegant presentations. Jetbuilt is now launching an international version that includes currency options, default tax rates by country and the ability to label the tax fields (VAT, sales tax, labor tax, etc.). It uses the Queen’s English and includes products used in the global market. Over 25 percent of Jetbuilt’s current customer base is now international dealers.
Jetbuilt’s concept is to keep everything moving forward, never requiring the user to go to the ‘basement’ of the application to setup items or clients in advance. Anything can be added on the fly while estimating a project. The Jetbuilt AV proposal and estimating software works on either a Mac or PC and includes a robust database of products that are updated by the Jetbuilt team as manufacturers release new products. Integrated dealer pricing is managed via manufacturer authentication, by directly adding prices to a project, or uploading price sheets to Jetbuilt for free data entry to the dealer account. Integrators can include their own labor and design rates which the software then recalls for subsequent proposals. Users can bundle their go-to systems and packages and drop them into future projects with one step. Additional features include automated location-based sales tax, integration with QuickBooks, budget tracking, team collaboration and auto data fill-ins. The custom presentation tools allow dealers to create an elegant, professional customer proposals using drag-and-drop technology.
Jetbuilt features a dashboard to track their pipeline, clients, proposal status and budgeting which allows integrators to track profits and margins from each project. Additionally, Jetbuilt allows collaboration and access to team member’s progress, whether they’re in the adjacent cubicle or across the country. More details are here. Leave a Comment
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ISE 2016 — You GOTTA Go! This Is an ACTUAL International ShowIntegrated Systems Europe (ISE), the largest AV trade show in THE WORLD, will deliver an unprecedented experience for exhibitors and attendees in 2016 through a wide selection of events, conferences and innovative new features around the show. These are scheduled to take place before and during the exhibition that will take place from 9-12 February 2016 at the RAI, Amsterdam.
On the day before the show opens visitors can benefit from listening to a host of industry experts and thought leaders at the Smart Building Conference, a joint venture between ISE’s co-owners InfoComm International and CEDIA. Erik Ubels, Deloitte, Director Information Technology & Workplace Services and Philip Vanhoutte, MD Plantronics are amongst the line-up of experts from across the commercial and residential smart building industry taking part in the conference.
The theme for this year’s SBC is ‘The Network is the Building.’ It will explore how the IP backbone changes the way we work, the way we live, and the new services now possible with today’s buildings. Topics covered include building and home control, wayfinding, cabling buildings for the future, the impact of mobile, multi-dwelling units, the Internet of things and audio-over-IP. Bob Snyder, Editor in Chief of Channel Media Europe, will chair the full-day programme on 8 February 2016.
Also taking place on 8 February is the Audio Forum conference. Visitors will have an opportunity to attend the pre-show event presented by one of ISE’s media partners Connessioni on the theme ‘Theories, Technologies, Legends and Myths about Audio.’ Donato Masci, an acoustic designer and consultant from Studio Sound Service in Italy, will be one of the first to take the stage alongside qualified audio professionals offering seminars and panels at the full day event.
The Opening Panel Discussion and Opening Reception will take place on the evening of the 8 February at 6pm. It will provide the ideal opportunity for networking over food and drinks and a chance to look ahead to the upcoming show days.
The Sports Venue Integration Summit will be held on the morning of 11 February. Sports Video Group Europe, in conjunction with RH Consulting, will explore a day in the life of the contemporary connected stadium. Topics to be covered include new approaches to fan engagement, AV/IT integration, event preparation and temporary overlay.
The second annual Capital Summit, on the afternoon of 11 February, will benefit from the likes of leading European financial experts, equity funds and strategic investors, such as the returning panellist Neil MacTaggart of Media Asset Capital. John Bowen of MediaBridge Capital Advisors and John Stiernberg of Stiernberg Consulting will co-moderate the discussion, which aims to bring together AV and IT industry entrepreneurs and executives with financial professionals and business experts from the world of investments, mergers, and acquisitions.
To highlight the addition of the extra show day in 2016 will be the presentation of the Closing Keynote speaker Dr. Michio Kaku, one of the world’s leading business futurists and scientific figures. Dr Kaku’s presentation will take place at 9am, half an hour before the final day of the show opens on 12 February. Recognised as a leading figure in his field, Dr. Kaku will focus on future trends in technology and commerce. Here are the details.
An exciting first for ISE 2016 is the launch of the Drone Arena. Hosted by Stampede Global, the new area will welcome leading drone manufacturers, and will deliver a programme of education and practical demonstrations on a daily basis.
Another first will be the launch of the Dolby Atmos Immersive Theatre, a collaboration between Arcam; Dolby and Genelec. The theatre will demonstrate the breath-taking audio that can be delivered via the system for music; music videos and movies.
ISE 2016 will also see the addition of a fourth Show Floor Theatre. The Audio Solutions Theatre, joins the already established Residential Solutions, Commercial Solutions and Unified Communications Theatres.
The four ISE Show Floor Theatres will provide a unique opportunity for attendees to hear industry experts, consultants and manufacturers present the latest in workflow solutions, case studies, technology innovation and business analysis in an innovative and intimate setting situated in the halls of the RAI. A special focus will be a series of themed Digital Signage Summit Presents sessions, taking place daily in the Commercial Solutions Theatres. All sessions in the Show Floor Theatres are free to attend.
In addition to the ISE Show Floor Theatres, CEDIA and InfoComm International will present an even wider range of courses at ISE 2016. Both associations will offer more of their popular technical and business education, with offers in place for early bird discounts.
More information on keynote speakers and conference programmes can be viewed here.
rAVe has the industry’s ONLY ISE MicroSite where ALL the ISE news, blogs, videos and photos will be posted. And, it’s already live. If you’d like to see our ISE 2015 coverage (including over 1,700 videos we shot), go here. Leave a Comment
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InfoComm to Offer Professional Development Consulting at ISE 2016InfoComm International will be offering free professional development consultations to attendees of Integrated Systems Europe (ISE) 2016, Feb. 9-12, in Amsterdam. The consultations will be conducted by InfoComm’s Europe-based and other international staff, with the goal of helping individuals and companies identify courses of study for advancing their careers and businesses.
“Workforce development has been identified by our European members as a critical need. InfoComm is pleased to devote our efforts at ISE to helping address that need,” said Pamela M. Taggart, Senior Director of Development Europe, InfoComm International. “I hear regularly from AV professionals here in Europe who want to take their careers or businesses to the next level, but the path is not always apparent. InfoComm can help by outlining possible paths. That’s what these consultations at ISE are about: If you have a goal in mind, we want to help you reach it.”
InfoComm’s in-person, one-on-one professional development consultations at ISE will run approximately 20 minutes each. At the end of the consultation, participants will receive a tailored plan of training opportunities not only from InfoComm, but also from others sources inside and outside the AV industry, including courses devoted to information technology and networking, as well as business management. Many of the education sources that are part of InfoComm’s offering deliver free and low-cost training.
“InfoComm’s professional development assistance is designed to offer a holistic picture of the opportunities available to learn new AV skills, technologies and best practices,” Taggart said. “Our advisers will have at their fingertips all of InfoComm’s own certification and training curricula, as well as training resources from industry partners, manufacturers and other sources, in order to suggest a well-rounded course of study that meets the person or company’s specific training needs.”
There are two ways for ISE 2016 attendees to set up a consultation: Make an appointment ahead of time at infocomm.org/free_consult or sign up in person during ISE at either the InfoComm FlashTrack stand 12-N100 or at the InfoComm stand 11-N100. The free, 20-minute consultations will be held at the InfoComm Stand 11-N100.
InfoComm’s professional development consultations are part of comprehensive program planned for ISE 2016. The association’s education and training lineup will feature sessions in three different formats: InfoComm Conferences, InfoComm MasterClasses and InfoComm FlashTracks. The different formats allow attendees to choose from half-day, three-hour or quick 20-minute courses and presentations on a wide range of industry topics. All sessions provide renewal units (RU) toward the Certified Technology Specialist (CTS) certification.For more information on InfoComm’s professional development program, Conference and MasterClass pricing, and to register for ISE 2016, go here. To register for individual InfoComm sessions, go here.
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NSCA’s BLC Pricing Goes Up Soon NSCA’s early-bird discount rate for all 2016 Business & Leadership Conference (BLC) registrations is set to expire after Jan. 4, 2016. On Jan. 5, 2016, registration fees for members and non-members will increase by $400.
NSCA’s BLC has become the industry’s most notable platform for executive-level education and networking. The event has grown over the past 18 years to bring more than 300 executives together annually to share stories, learn from other leaders, and hear about new ways to embrace technology and motivate employees. The Business & Leadership Conference will be held on Feb. 25-27, 2016, at Four Seasons Resort & Club in Dallas, TX.
First-time BLC attendees who are also NSCA members may apply for a Randy Vaughan Founder’s Award to receive free registration. To qualify, applicants must be in a management or decision-making role. Applications are available here.
BLC 2016 keynotes and sessions include:
- Great by Choice by Morten T. Hansen
- New Ways to Work & Connect in a New World by Seth Mattison
- Building a Future-Ready Business by Nicholas Webb
- Integrity – Remembering Who You Are! by Jim Morris
- Creating Distinction & Differentiation by Dr. Kevin Freiberg
- Economic Outlook 2016 by Dr. Lee McPheters
- The Shift to Services: More Profit, Less Revenue
- A Multi-generational Look at Business Development
- Benchmark Your Operations Team
Attendees are encouraged to register for the NSCA Education Foundation Industry Charity Golf Outing at the TPC Four Seasons Las Colinas – hosted by Accu-Tech – which kicks off BLC on Feb. 25, 2016.
Take advantage of early-bird pricing for just $1,099. Registration will go up to $1,499 on Jan. 5, 2016, for NSCA members; registration for non-members will increase to $1,799. To register, go here. Gold and Platinum members save 10 percent on registration. Leave a Comment
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Mackie Reach Professional PA System Now ShippingMackie today started shipping their Reach Professional PA System. Reach is an all-in-one professional PA system that delivers ultra-wide coverage, unmatched sound quality, and built-in personal monitoring. Featuring Bluetooth music streaming, a full-featured, six-channel digital mixer and a powerful control app for iOS and Android, Reach is a self-contained PA system. With Reach, users can deliver their best performance ever thanks to powerful technology like the ARC array, which provides clear, high-fidelity sound to everyone in the audience, and the built-in EarShot personal monitoring system, giving performers true, flexible stage monitoring without the need for additional speakers and miles of cables. Plus, with wireless streaming and control over the built-in six-channel digital mixer via the Mackie Connect app for iOS and Android devices, you get wireless freedom to control everything from levels, EQ and FX to sound-enhancing tools like a feedback destroyer for amazing sound in any situation.
The ARC (Amplified Radial Curve) high frequency array technology in Reach utilizes three horizontally angled high-frequency drivers paired with dual vertically spaced high-output low-frequency drivers, providing 150 degrees of coverage for optimal sound quality, even for audiences spread over a wide or deep area. Combined with the EarShot personal monitoring system, you get a total of 250 degrees of room coverage for ultimate versatility.
Equally as important to what the audience hears, is a performer’s ability to hear themselves on stage. Reach’s built-in EarShot personal monitoring system offers the perfect solution. With a powerful full-range driver on each side of Reach, performers can get clear sound on stage to deliver their best performance. It also offers independent volume control and selectable configuration for flexibility.
One of Reach’s most powerful features is complete wireless control using the Mackie Connect app, available for iOS and Android devices. The Mackie Connect app puts the user in control of everything — from simple level adjustments to control over professional performance features like three-band channel EQ, a built-in feedback destroyer, application-specific speaker voicing modes,16 vocal/instrument effects, as well as three recallable memory settings to quickly get Reach back to your favorite settings. With the built-in six-channel digital mixer, you have all the inputs, processing and control you need, making Reach the ultimate all-in-one professional PA system.
The Mackie Reach Professional PA System is now shipping for $1,249.99 and here are the details. Leave a Comment
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K-array Ships Three New SpeakersK-array’s KU26 compact subwoofers, integrated with one 6” Neodymium transducer and one 6” passive radiator, are now shipping. With a frequency range of 45Hz to 300Hz, the KU26 is a companion for the K-array Lyzard, Vyper and Tornado speakers. Its Neodymium transducer has a double voice coil (16 Ω + 16 Ω) for selectable impedance settings allowing users to combine up to eight KU26 units powered by just one channel of the KA84 amplifier.
The KU26 has been designed to extend the low range in small to medium size rooms. Applications vary from hotels and churches to pubs and restaurants as well as stores and conferences.
K-array has also created a thin subwoofer to complement the Slim Array Technology incorporated in its speakers. The KU44 line array element is an extremely compact, array-able bass element designed to combine with mid-high speakers to provide a full range frequency response with prodigious output in a virtually invisible profile.The line source sub has a frequency range of 50 Hz to 150Hz and is comprised of two 4” Neodymium transducers and two 4” passive radiators engineered for maximum linear excursion and minimum residual noise. For easier use and integration with all KA amplifiers, the KU44 allows the user to choose between two different values of impedance (8/32 Ω). At 32 Ω, as many as eight KU44 units can be powered off a single KA amplifier channel.
KU44 is made entirely of steel, making it extremely resistant even when deployed outside in tough weather conditions. This is ideal for water-front environments where ordinary bass speakers would corrode. It is also impregnable by foreign objects like dust, sand or water, which over time can damage an ordinary audio element. A variety of dedicated hardware accessories provide architects with numerous mounting options for permanent and portable installations best suited for theaters and other venues where invisible line arrays are ideal.
Installing a line array of KU44 subwoofers at the side or behind a line array of Kobras creates a full-range sound source with true line array characteristics down to 50 Hz.
The KA14 is a versatile amplifier, easily adaptable for small applications that do not require a lot of power. Responding to the need of a simple solution for those who do not have a lot of additional resources, the KA14 is a complete system with a mixer, processor and amplifier.
The KA14 features four fully independent and configurable output channels (four 300-watt channels @ 4 Ω). The integrated DSP offers EQ, Matrix, Levels, Delays and a Limiter to avoid the need for external additional processors. The front panel has an easy-to-use touchscreen that gives access to all the basic functions for quick setup and corrections. The KA14 can be used as a mixer for fixed installations thanks to the XLR and RCA analog inputs.
An onboard K-array speaker preset library provides configuration for endless combinations of the Lyzard, Vyper, Tornado and Rumble loudspeakers. All DSP functions are remote controlled via the K-framework software over USB connector. The amplifier is built into a 2U lightweight, aluminum chassis and come with a kit of removable rack adapters and four rubber pads for flat surfaces. KA amplifiers feature optical limiters, and protection against overheating, overcurrent and short circuits.
More information on K-Array products is here. Leave a Comment
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RCF Launches the HDL50-A Three-Way Active Line ArrayRCF’s D-Line has grown with the addition of the large format HDL50-A. The most powerful in the series, the HDL50-A is an active three-way line array module, designed specifically for large events — both indoors and outdoors.
Equipped with two 12” woofers, four symmetrical 6.5″ mid-ranges and two 2” drivers, it includes a built in 4400-watt powerful digital amplifier and uses neodymium magnets and a new housing constructed from lightweight plywood and polypropylene (and a weight of only 106 pounds).
The custom 4PATH designed waveguide allows a precise coverage of 90°x10° degrees and the unique shape of the four ducts forming the guide create an ideal isophasic load from 700 Hz to the highest audible frequencies.
The two ND850 large format compression drivers deliver one of the key advantages of the HDL 50-A, while the 3” voice coil allows a crossover point of 800Hz allowing this driver to produce almost all of the vocal range. RSF says this allows better coverage and superior efficiency. And, the symmetrical design of the cabinet produces identical left and right coverage. The component positioning and special DSP crossover filtering of the HDL50-A take care of the constant directivity without spots of break up or attenuation. The originally designed V-SHAPED front baffle provides co-planar mid-ranges and woofers and a controlled LF dispersion.
A 4400-watt peak power digital amplifier powers the HDL50-A: 800 watts for the HF, 1400 watts for midrange section and 2200 watts for the LF. New generation DSP handles all the processing within the cabinet and allows adjustment of Cluster size and HF projection.
All these settings are accessed by the encoder on the rear of the cabinets or using the integrated RDNet remote control. The controls on the back of the speaker allow a number of simple optimizations to be carried out at the flick of a switch.
The HDL50-A tour grade system comes in a composite wooden polypropylene enclosure, and is equipped with two aluminum side handles with rubber handgrips and two rear handles for portability.
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Mackie Delivers Tons of New Features with Master Fader v4.0Mackie today announced the immediate availability of Master Fader v4.0, a control app for its DL32R, DL1608 and DL806 digital mixers. The most important new app feature is the addition of an RTA on each output. Users can now view a real time RTA beneath any output’s PEQ or GEQ. This delivers professional visual feedback that’s great when tuning the room or to make more precise EQ adjustments. For those newer to mixing, it also offers a great way to learn how EQ affects the sound of a mix.
Master Fader v4.0 marks the integration of iPad, iPhone and iPod touch support within a single app, doing away with the need for the separate My Fader app for personal monitor mixing. Now, Master Fader recognizes which device type being used and sets the features accordingly. Using a single app for all supported devices offers easier management and updating for users. Master Fader v4.0 also adds support for the iPad Pro.
DL1608 and DL806 users will benefit from a completely updated take on recording and playback. Now, users can install, see and access all of their recordings direct from Master Fader. This also allows for direct playback from Master Fader so users can audition their recordings or use them immediately for intermission music, room tuning and more. Exporting these tracks is also now simpler, taking advantage of Master Fader’s integration with the iOS share sheet.
DL32R users will see the addition of a built-in oscillator, perfect for testing system functionality, ensuring hookups are correct and general diagnosis. Route the oscillator’s signal (pink noise, white noise or sine wave with selectable frequency) to any channel or physical output.
Many other enhancements have been made to ease setup, aid workflow or increase customization. New to Master Fader is the ability to easily copy and paste channels and mixes. This provides real world flexibility sure to save time and improve organization. Master Fader now also has a completely scalable UI, including the ability to use the new Split View in iOS 9. Perfect for onstage musician’s controlling their own mix, users can easily see both Master Fader and things like a set list, lyrics or music sheets without having to switch apps. There’s a new quick assign function to make assigning channel ID easier than ever. There’s an update to access limiting that completely hides limited features, so installers can create a custom workflow for their customers. And, with tighter integration with iOS, things like importing and exporting get better, allowing easy export to a huge range of locations including the iCloud Drive, Microsoft One Drive, Dropbox and more.
Master Fader v4.0 is available for immediate download from here. Leave a Comment
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RGB SPectrum’s New MediaWall V Video Wall Processor ShipsRGB Spectrum’s MediaWall V display processor now includes a second, larger chassis and expanded features bringing more flexibility and capability to the product line. The new Model 550 MediaWall V wall processor offers more inputs and outputs in high definition (HD) and 4K/ultra high definition (UHD) formats (but, no specification for color bit depth). Input capacity has been doubled to 36 direct sources plus IP inputs. Increased output capacity supports wall arrays of up to 24 HD/2K displays or up to 12 4K/UHD displays.
Functionality is further expanded with new switched output modules. These can take the place of an external matrix switcher, providing up to 18 additional outputs, a convenient, cost-effective way to route sources to other displays, operator control stations, conference rooms, or other downstream devices such as digital video recorders. Any input can be routed to any number of outputs, providing significant switching flexibility built right into the display processor.
These expanded input and output capabilities enhance RGB Spectrum’s MultiPoint Control Room Management System (MCMS) which adds arbitrated KVM control over system resources for the ultimate in control room management. An optional Application Processor decodes incoming IP streams. IP camera and other H.264 streams at resolutions up to 4K/UHD (3840×2160/30) are decoded on a separate processor embedded in the MediaWall V chassis. This unique dual-processor architecture guarantees adequate CPU resources to video wall operations while the second processor handles IP decoding.
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Extron Ships 4K HDMI Matrix Switchers with Audio De-EmbeddingExtron is shipping its DXP 1616 HD 4K and DXP 168 HD 4K, the first two models in a new series of high performance HDMI matrix switchers for resolutions up to 4K (capable of 4096×2160 @30Hz at 4:4:4 and 4096×2160 @60Hz at 4:2:0). They are HDCP compliant, and support data rates to 10.2 Gbps, Deep Color up to 12‑bit, 3D, and HD lossless audio formats. Extron technologies such as SpeedSwitch, Key Minder and EDID Minder, along with automatic input cable equalization and output reclocking, ensure dependable system operation with exceptional switching speeds and compatibility between devices. These 16×16 and 16×8 matrix switchers also feature built-in audio de-embedding, enabling digital audio from any input to be assigned to the digital or analog stereo outputs for streamlined integration. The DXP HD 4K Series is ideal for use in applications that require reliable, high performance routing of digital video and digital or analog audio signals in professional AV environments.
The DXP HD 4K Series also switches embedded digital audio from HDMI source signals, along with the corresponding video, to any or all of the selected outputs. The technologies and capabilities built into the DXP HD 4K Series ensure high performance AV signal routing, with a fully digital pathway that maintains the highest possible audio and image quality for multiple sources and displays.
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Barco Ships Event Master Line Aimed at Rental Barco’s latest Event Master image processing products are now shipping. Launched at this year’s InfoComm, the S3-4K compact screen management system and EC-50 controller are currently available through all major rental companies.
The S3-4K, the smaller version of the E2, but has the same processing performance and image quality and features 12 input channels, four program outputs, four aux outputs and two dedicated multi-viewer outputs. Compatible with both the S3-4K and E2 screen management systems, the EC-50 event controller is a compact, highly versatile control surface that provides instant access and excellent situational awareness for a multitude of event applications. It gives fingertip control over source, preset, layer and destination selection, along with a second touch-enabled display.
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New Crestron DigitalMedia I/O Cards Enable Distribution of HDCP 2.2 Protected 4K ContentCrestron is now shipping five new HDCP 2.2 compliant DigitalMedia input and output cards, making it possible to upgrade DM systems to distribute HDCP 2.2 protected 4K content (color bit depth up to 4:4:4 @ 30Hz and 4:2:0 @ 60Hz). To add HDCP 2.2 sources, systems integrators need only switch out the currently installed DM input cards for those sources with Crestron’s new HDCP 2.2 compliant DM input cards. Likewise, they need only upgrade the output card(s) for those displays to which their customers want to transmit HDCP 2.2 protected content.
Crestron is now shipping the following five new DM 4K HDCP 2.2 input and output cards:
- 4K HDMI Input Card for DM Switchers (DMC-4K-HD-HDCP2)
- 4K HDMI Input Card w/Downmixing for DM Switchers (DMC-4K-HD-DSP-HDCP2)
- HDBaseT Certified 4K Input Card for DM Switchers (DMC-4K-C-HDCP2)
- HDBaseT Certified 4K Input Card w/Downmixing for DM Switchers (DMC-4K-C-DSP-HDCP2)
- Two-Channel HDBaseT Certified 4K Output Card for DM Switchers (DMC-4K-CO-HD-HDCP2)
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Just Add Power Announces 2G+4+ Video Tiling ProcessorThe Just Add Power 2G+4+ video tiling processor is a 1U rackmountable 2G+4+ device with ImagePlay, shown at this year’s CEDIA Expo in Dallas, which can take four or more HDMI sources and display them on a single screen (or multiple single screens) in 1080p in an array of viewing modes. A single source device can be displayed full screen, four sources can be displayed in quad view, or four sources can be arranged as one large tile with three smaller tiles positioned horizontally or vertically along the bottom or side. The 2G+4+ tiler is an incredibly flexible device that can be implemented in any installation scenario that requires HDMI video matrixing and multi-view / video tiling in tandem, whatever its size.
Aimed at the HomeAV “man cave” market but also with applications in conference rooms, the 2G+4+ video tiler can be distributed to and accessed on every TV in your client’s home by being integrated alongside a HDMI over IP matrix, comprised of Just Add Power’s second generation (2G/2G+/2G+AVPro) of IP-based transmitters and receivers plus a Layer 3 Gigabit Managed Switch.
As well as being accessible on any number of single screens, the 2G+4+ tiler can be shown on Just Add Power video walls (from 2×2 to 16×6 in size). Here are the details. Leave a Comment
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Extron Ships SMP 351 Streaming Media Processors With 400GB of Solid State StorageExtron shipped two new models of their SMP 351 Streaming Media Processor lineup. These new models offer 400 GB of internal solid state storage to accommodate more AV content. All SMP 351 models feature five inputs that allows for combining two high resolution signals, a background image and metadata into dynamic layouts that enhance a presentation’s message. Extron’s FlexOS embedded operating system makes the SMP 351 easily-adaptable to changing requirements. Applications can be uploaded to FlexOS that empower the SMP 351 to automate system operation using control ports.
Requiring no license fees, the SMP 351 is a flexible, cost-effective media processor for delivering dynamic presentations to larger audiences. It is ideal for any environment where AV sources can be streamed live or recorded, and where multiple AV sources are combined to enhance a presentation. Organizations use the SMP 351 to communicate with staff or students who cannot be present at an event, affording all the opportunity to review and gain insight into the live experience. It can be adapted to many applications, documenting virtually any meeting, conference, or activity that uses AV sources. The SMP 351 is designed for use in corporate, education, government, healthcare, courtroom, house of worship, and rental and staging applications.
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ATEN Introduces 4×4 and 9×9 HDMI Matrix Switch with HDBaseT-LiteATEN today announced the release of its first HDMI HDBaseT-Lite Matrix Switches, the VM3404H and VM3909H. Both claim to send uncompressed video, audio, power and control via HDBaseT through a single LAN cable up to 70 meters. The versatile switches support video wall, Seamless Switch and Power over HDBaseT (POH) functions when used in combination with a selected ATEN receiver.
ATEN’s VM3404H and VM3909H include four to nine HDMI inputs and four to nine mirrored HDMI/HDBaseT outputs, respectively. When a mirrored HDMI output is connected to a display, it can be used to verify the corresponding HDBaseT output or as an additional video display.
The VM3404H and VM3909H can be controlled by front-panel pushbuttons, IR channel ports (bi-dorectuonal), RS-232 and IP. Here are the specs. Leave a Comment
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Extron Introduces Entwine EMP, an Enterprise Media Platform for Lecture CaptureExtron just launched its first new product since its acquisition of Entwine this summer — the EMP, an integrated end-to-end software solution that facilitates the capture, management and playback of media files from meetings, lectures and other live events. With Entwine EMP, previously recorded media files can be added to the system, ensuring current as well as archived recordings are accessible from a single platform. Content is cataloged and optimized for distribution or VOD – Video On Demand playback, and management of content and devices across the entire enterprise is provided by a dedicated administrative dashboard. Students and end-users access scheduled or ad hoc recorded media through a customizable user portal or through a LMS – Learning Management System.
Extron’s Entwine EMP works easily with Extron SMP 351 Series Streaming Media Processors to record and process content. Content management features allow cataloging, searching, and editing across a host of media file formats using Entwine EMP’s administrative or user portal, saving time and effort. Integration with various external databases such as LDAP/AD, makes it easy to create and manage user groups and role management. Entwine EMP can also edit and enhance videos, including trimming, splitting, combining and adding closed captioning.
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Pexip’s Enterprise Collaboration Platform Deploys on Amazon Web Services (AWS)Pexip today announced that the newest version of its Infinity platform will enable deployment directly on the Amazon Web Services (AWS) cloud platform.
Pexip says their Infinity platform allows organizations to improve work efficiency by simply enabling everyone in organizations of any size to benefit from visual communication and collaboration tools. It seamlessly ties together enterprise communication solutions such as Microsoft Skype for Business, legacy video and telephone conferencing, and web-based communications so that organizations can improve their competitive advantage by getting more done with better results.
Pexip Infinity users deploying on AWS can benefit from all the features Amazon makes available to its customers. Hosting Pexip Infinity on the Amazon cloud provides an easy-to-use and cost effective alternative for many enterprises. AWS is already used by some of the largest corporations around.
With a Pexip Infinity AWS deployment, it is quick and easy for an administrator to spin up extra instances and add capacity in minutes, providing unmatched simplicity, flexibility and scalability for any-sized organization. There is no need to invest in or own any additional or custom hardware, as the entire collaboration solution can be hosted on the AWS cloud.
Pexip makes Infinity available as Amazon AMIs – Application Machine Images – for the AWS cloud. These can be deployed on AWS to benefit from any of Amazon’s deployment options; a private, public, or hybrid instance, each providing unique benefits for the user.
In both the private and public cloud deployment options, the complete communications and collaboration solution is deployed on the AWS in its entirety. There is no need to buy or manage any hardware whatsoever. In a hybrid deployment, management, and optionally some media handling, is deployed on the customer’s corporate network.
Pexip aims to be the global leader in interoperability, user experience, and the ability to tie any and every enterprise communication solution together via its Infinity platform. It empowers organizations with more efficient workdays for an unlimited number of users. Built on a purely virtualized, highly scalable distributed architecture, the platform is quick and easy to install, deploy, operate, and manage, allowing customers to capitalize on their investments and create truly efficient collaboration cultures. Using Infinity, organizations can offer video, audio, and web-based collaboration solutions to every employee via existing IT or cloud infrastructures — greatly improving organization efficiency while saving costs.
Making Pexip Infinity available for AWS falls in line with the company’s mission of making video, audio, and visual collaboration tools available for everyone in the most efficient and simple ways.
To test drive Pexip Infinity, go here. Leave a Comment
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VDO360 Ships Clearwater PTZPCVDO360’s Clearwater PTZPC, launched at InfoComm 2015, is now shipping.
Using a camera module based on Compass HD PTZ USB camera the VDO360 Clearwater uses a computer with an Intel Core i5 processor with vPro technology. The Clearwater PTZPC is a completely new way to do BYOD collaboration. By uniting a VDO360 Compass camera with an Intel 5th generation i5 PC, VDO360 says they have has solved one of the most vexing issues facing communications space design: Where and how to run the cabling.
The Clearwater PTZPC turns the camera and computer into one single unit — no more worrying about USB cables. It’s smaller than most USB PTZ cameras but includes a wireless BYOD system, a VTC camera, a Harman Kardon Esquire 2 microphone, a Flare IR preset recall buttons, a wireless keyboard and mouse, and the IR remote for camera control.
With the use of WiDi (Wireless Display) capabilities, the Clearwater system can be configured to be completely wireless, with the exception of power to the PTZPC. Here are all the specs.
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KLIK Intros New Wireless HD Streaming Box Aimed at Conference, Meeting and ClassroomsKLIK Communications just launched the KLIK Boks Wireless Presentation Connector — a device that wirelessly streams the contents of their laptop, tablet or smartphone to a projector or monitor for $249. Similar to the now-ubiquitous video streaming sticks available for consumer use, the KLIK Boks targets corporate meeting and conference rooms, classrooms and meeting spaces with a host of what they claim are “professional-grade features.”
KLIK Boks includes both HDMI and VGA connectivity. The company claims it’s developed something called KLIK’s SmartSense detection technology that automatically matches the display settings between the laptop and the screen (i.e., EDID).
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FX Luminaire Drop-in LED Lamp Converts Incandescent Fixtures to LED with Luxor CompatibilityFX Luminaire announced the release of the new ZD MR-16, a high-quality drop-in LED lamp that converts incandescent fixtures to energy-efficient LED fixtures. When connected to a Luxor ZD transformer, the ZD MR-16 adds zoning, dimming, and Wi-Fi control capabilities to any brand of low voltage incandescent landscape lighting fixture.
The ZD MR-16 is compatible with any brand of low voltage fixture that accepts an MR-16 base. It is offered in two intensities, four beam angle options: 10, 25, 35, 60, and two color temperatures: 2700 and 3900 Kelvin. It works with both the Luxor ZD and ZDC controllers.
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SnapAV’s Strong Launches Improved Rack LineSnapAV’s Strong line has just announced the launch of their revamped Custom and Evolve series racks, designed specifically for custom AV installers. The redesigned product lines, with improvements based on dealer feedback, demonstrate Strong’s commitment to continuously providing innovative and high quality products with features that make every installation faster and easier. Strong says that changes to these products are expected to deliver improvements in ease of install, quality and user experience.
The Strong product line, sold exclusively through SnapAV, is comprised of both pre-built and custom built in-cabinet, wall mount, and floor standing racks and enclosures. All products, including redesigned Custom and Evolve series racks, are available on the company’s website here. Leave a Comment
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For all you REGULAR readers of rAVe ProAV Edition out there, hopefully you enjoyed another opinion-packed issue!
For those of you NEW to rAVe, you just read how we are — we are 100 percent opinionated. We not only report the news and new product stories of the ProAV industry, but we stuff the articles full of our opinions. That may include (but is not limited to) whether or not the product is even worth looking at, challenging the manufacturers on their specifications, calling a marketing-spec bluff and suggesting ways integrators market their products better. But, one thing is for sure, we are NOT a trade publication that gets paid for running editorial or product stories. Traditional trade publications get paid to run product stories — that’s why you see what you see in most of the pubs out there. We are different: We run what we want to run and NO ONE is going to pay us to write anything good (or bad).
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Everything we publish is opt-in — we spam NO ONE! rAVe ProAV Edition is our flagship publication with what we believe is a reach of virtually everyone in the ProAV market. rAVe HomeAV Edition is co-published with CEDIA, covering the HomeAV market. We added rAVe Rental [and Staging] in November 2007, rAVe ED [Education] in May 2008 and then rAVe DS [Digital Signage] in January 2009. We added rAVe GHGav [Green, Healthcare & Government AV] in August 2010 and rAVe HOW [House of Worship] in July 2012. You can subscribe to any of those publication or see ALL our archives by going to: https://www.ravepubs.com
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