Volume 14, Issue 5.2 — March 16, 2016
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Industry News Audio Projection Control & Signal Processing Displays Unified Collaborative Conferencing
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Microphone Placement Is Everything!
By Tony Sprando Commercial AV Designer
Today I’d like share about best practices for where to place a fixed microphone when using one for speaking. These best practices apply to everyone including sports announcers for the Big Ten Conference, presidential candidates from a lectern and also general handheld applications.
The speaking voice is a source, and like your radio or music player, it creates sound and it projects its sound to the listener. To increase the quality of your voice for listeners, you need to apply a sound system, i.e speakers and microphones. When using these pieces of equipment, a speaker must consider placement, which I will cover for you here.
The top considerations are: the placement of the microphone, the placement of the speakers and the location of the hard surfaces in the room.
Respect the room. This is the most commonly overlooked aspect. Before you ever step up to the microphone or sit behind one, take an inventory of the room including furniture, walls, and floors, especially around where you will be speaking. The room set-up can be your friend or it can be your worst enemy.
Here are a few observation to note:
- Is the room full of hard surfaces?
- How close is the lectern to a wall?
- Is the table I am speaking from have a table cloth on it?
- Are the audio speakers located behind me or in front of me?
- How close will the next microphone, or another sound source, be next to me?
Placement is everything. If you want to prevent headaches and fighting with the sound guy then work with the room set-up folks and follow the 3:1 Rule as a “rule of thumb” – a broadly accurate guide or principle, based on experience or practice rather than theory. I believe in real life examples for the best results which is what experience has taught me.
The 3:1 Rule is a guideline to help you set up your equipment so they prevent audio issues from their origin. The sound that you make with your mouth is like a speaker and it will broadcast where ever you point it. So to provide a guide, the 3:1 Rule helps you in this way. If your mouth is 1′ away from the microphone, then keep all other sources at least 3x that distance away from your microphone. This would include other microphones, hard surfaces, music sources, rustling papers, clicking keyboards, fans, etc.
Audio Technician notes: Audio Input Gain. The 3:1 Rule will not work if the sound person does not understand sound structure. Here are the two that will make or break an event.
Unity Gain. Keep all the audio source gains and the mains out pretty much the same, not all over the place, looking like a zig zag on the mixer board or “riding the fader” on any other sources. The gain on your microphone should be close to the gain level on the rest of the other microphones, if there are any near you. The common problem is that if you are at a head table with other microphones, even using the 3:1 Rule, the sound person may turn up the gain to the other microphones which will start “elbowing in” into your area.
Phase Cancellation. In other words, when two microphones are in close proximity to one another and you wonder why you can’t get enough volume out of them, it’s because they are cancelling each other out. This is a result of the two identical signals, which if are 100 percent or 180 degrees out of phase, they will completely cancel one another if combined.
Best Practices for a Head Table Set-up: Set the audio mixer to a Unity Gain structure, set the microphone up in a uniformed manner, all about the same distance from the edge of the table. If there is someone who is softer spoken than the other person, then move the microphone closer to them. I recommend a gooseneck microphone or a boundary or “plate” microphone.
Best Practices for podium miking with two microphones. Here the two mics are placed with their capsules as close together as possible and angled in a “crossfire.” This provides a wider overall acceptance angle, allows stereo miking with excellent mono compatibility, and largely avoids the phase-interference problem. Podium miking with two microphones has the two mics placed with their capsules as close together as possible and angled in a “crossfire.” Proper mixer set-up is to pan one microphone to the left and the other to the right, which will avoid cancellation.
Speaker Placement: The main speakers must always be placed in front of the person speaking otherwise there will be feedback (loud screeching sound). The speaker cabinets should be in a location that will not be in the walking path of the presenter or easily walked in front of.
Acoustics Considerations: A common challenge also includes items in the room that conflict with the microphone’s performance.
Here are a few solutions:
Consider the way the microphone is attached to the podium or on the table. Vibrations from the floor or the table top can be distracting, so I recommend isolating the microphone stand or mount. Placing a cloth on the table or podium is a great first step to reduce those unwanted reflections and vibrations that naturally occur. Microphone companies have what are termed “isolation stands” and they offer mounting hardware that is a more permanent solution as well.
Final Word: Speak directly into the microphone!
High frequencies are very directional, and if you turn your head away from the microphone, the sound captured by the microphone will get noticeably dull.
If you are interested in further information, I’ve found the following resources valuable:
Hope these recommendations help you to have a successful presentation! Leave a Comment
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Integrators Tackle Technological Change
By Dan Daley Special to InfoComm International
This is the second in a series. To learn what these AV professionals think about how the business of AV integration is changing, read our earlier report.
In many ways, technology is the basis of the AV industry. But when technology changes quickly and often, as it’s been doing since the dawn of the digital era, it creates challenges for AV integrators, who must keep up or perish. In fact, change has become so rapid and relentless that new formats already are being overshadowed by newer ones — even if neither is widespread yet. Consider the supposed imminence of 8K video, even as 4K continues to gain traction.
On the audio side, immersiveness has grown predominant, with integrators monitoring an array of formats, such as Dolby’s Atmos, the MPEG-H Audio Alliance’s eponymous entry, and Barco’s Auro. When it comes to digital audio networking, Dante has established itself alongside other audio-over-Ethernet technologies, while the recent finalization of the AES67 interoperability standard has smoothed out much of the remaining wrinkles between networked-audio formats.
Calm before the next storm? Probably. There’s always a new advancement around the corner, and integration companies have to anticipate where they might fit into their own long-term strategies.
Staying on the Edge
Many AV integrators have been keeping themselves at the leading edge of major technological trends in AV as a matter of practicality. “For example, we’ve been doing 4K video work in California for going on eight years now,” says Lisa Perrine, CTS®, CEO of Cibola Systems, a 17-employee design firm in Orange County, Calif. “It’s part of our comfort zone. My background is in design, and as a company, we’ve always embraced the new and the challenging. It’s part of our philosophy as a company to take on what other companies may not be ready to.”
Phillip Cordell, CTS-D, Director of Engineering at M3 Technology Group, an APEx-certified integrator based in Nashville, says the shift to network-based distribution and management has been at the core of AV technology change in recent years. Understanding that fact has to be part of a company’s strategy at all levels.
“Firms must employ individuals who have a firm grasp of both AV and IT concepts,” he says. “AV and IT have officially converged, so much so that virtually no AV conversation can take place without a thorough understanding of the network on which it will live. As such, it is important to begin those conversations with the client as early as possible in the planning stages so that bandwidth allotment, protocol stacks and a myriad of other topics can be considered in advance of deployment.
“Firms must dive in and learn the ins and outs of deploying technology on these platforms and devices, or else cede the business to someone else,” Cordell warns. In fact, he says, finding the intersection of these two converging forces is the single largest personnel issue in the business. “The largest challenge we and the industry face is recruiting IT-savvy individuals who are also interested in pro AV.”
That said, however, Cordell sees blooming tech diversity as enabling deeper engagement with clients. “These concepts — each complex in its own right — are enriching the traditional AV environment by facilitating a deeper connection between users and the technology,” he says. “As the relationship between users and their technology grows, new challenges are presented in terms of seamlessly marrying pro AV with each new concept.”
At the same time, and in very specific ways, AV and IT will likely remain discrete entities, both within companies and projects. “They’ll still be separate propositions, even if AV and control are running on the network,” says Tom Peters, CTS, General Manager of Garden Grove, Calif.-based SybaTek, an 11-person, two-year-old integration company. “Think of a car dealership — they have sales and repair services that are looked at as separate but still have to work together. AV will remain separate, even when they’re operating in an integrated manner.”
Peters believes that AV and IT will be more closely integrated on new-construction projects than in upgrades to existing facilities. At the end of the day, he says, the ultimate convergence of the two domains will offer clients unprecedented management advantages. “They’ll see it all as a single platform.”
Consumer Device Inroads
Peters has other concerns about to technology adoption, however. He’s watched consumer-grade devices — particularly displays — make inroads into commercial projects, a trend he’s wary of.
“The commoditization of displays is presenting some significant challenges,” he says, with consumer models making their way onto commercial BOMs, often at the behest of a budget-conscious client or consultant. “Clients and client advocates aren’t helping themselves with this, and the gap between consumer and commercial-grade functionality is getting bigger. More consumer displays are dropping RS-232 jacks and are supporting fewer resolutions. We end up having to put in scalers to compensate for that.”
Peters says that brings the conversation back to the influence of a wider range of integrators approaching the high-end commercial AV space. “They’re looking at putting audio and video into a room; we’re looking at that room as a node on a network,” he says. “That’s a huge difference in perspective.”
That’s why, Peters continues, AV integrators need to stay on the cutting edge of new formats and platforms, even if it compels them to specialize in some areas more than others. “We need to reinforce to our clients what it is that commercial AV integrators can bring to a project,” he says.
SybaTek, Cibola Systems and M3 Technology Group all are recognized by InfoComm as Audiovisual Provider of Excellence (APEx) companies. InfoComm’s APEx program is becoming an integral part of how AV integrators find opportunity in a changing AV universe.
This column was reprinted with permission from InfoComm International and originally appeared here. Leave a Comment
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rAVe Founder Gary Kayye Partners with Almo Pro A/V Launches Informational Webinar Series Focused on Profit and Growth Almo Professional A/V today announced a new educational webinar series for resellers focused on providing tools, tips and specific information necessary to achieve maximum growth and profitability. The year-long series — which begins on March 9 — is being led by Gary Kayye, industry guru and founder of rAVe Publications with participation from guest sponsors. A majority of the sessions are worth valuable InfoComm Renewal Units.
“This series is designed to go beyond the standard webinar format and really dig deep into various topics while providing realistic, tangible ways for our partner community to become more profitable,” said Kelly Marshall, senior marketing manager for Almo Professional A/V. “We chose Gary Kayye to lead this series because of his industry knowledge and ‘no-nonsense’ teaching style, which ensure our webinar participants get the most from these sessions.”
“These will not be your typical product-based webinars,” explained Gary Kayye, founder of rAVe Publications. “When Almo approached me about leading these, I jumped at the opportunity as they wanted the content to be strictly educational and leave each attendee with advice for making money immediately after hanging up. These webinars put products into real-world applications and solutions — not just a new piece of AV gear. I am proud to be part of this series as I think this will set a new bar for every webinar in AV to be informative rather than product-centric.”
The series begins with the following webinars:
March 9: Recurring Revenue Made Easy with Almo Connect Services
Moderated by Gary Kayye; Sponsored by Almo Connect
Tune in as Gary Kayye moderates a panel of key players representing Almo’s new Connect Services. Learn the details of the program, how to instantly change a business strategy with recurring revenue and how to sell this services to customers.
March 30: Encouraging Interaction In the World of Me – Using Interactive LCSs for Productivity
Presented by Gary Kayye, Sponsored by Sharp Pro (CTS RU: 1)
In a world where everyone is buried in their smartphone or engrossed in their tablet, it takes more effort to get people interacting and focused in a meeting. The new generation of interactive LCD displays truly collaborate and connect everyone in the meeting wirelessly. And, they are not only easy to use, but, in many cases, fully eliminate the need for projection. This makes room integration simple and affordable while eliminating the projection cone and still allowing for a manual collaboration space.
April 12 (Part 1 of 2) How to Sell Collaboration with Barco ClickShare
Presented by Gary Kayye, Sponsored by Barco (CTS RU: 1)
Focuses on the business side of how to sell the concept of collaboration and how it applies to customers. Barco ClickShare offers tremendous flexibility when it comes to more effective, streamlined collaboration.
April 14 (Part 2 of 2) Let’s Get Technical: A Deeper Dive into Barco ClickShare
Presented by Gary Kayye, Sponsored by Barco (CTS RU: 1)
Learn the more technical aspects of integrating ClickShare into a variety of applications, the difference in the ClickShare products, and all of the security features that come standard in the latest ClickShare models.
Registration links are with each seminar description or you can go here. Leave a Comment
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Winners of NSCA Excellence in Product Innovation AnnouncedNSCA has announced the winners of the second annual Excellence in Product Innovation awards, a recognition program for products that have a profound impact on systems integrators.
Any manufacturer that produces low-voltage products for installation by integrators in the commercial space was eligible to apply for this award. The awards were announced on Feb. 25 in Dallas, TX, at NSCA’s 18th annual Business & Leadership Conference.
One winner was named in each of the following categories, along with an overall Grand Prize Winner that received the highest score overall. The 2016 winners are:
- Ease of Customization: Revolabs Executive Elite
- Installer-Friendly: Shure QLX-D Digital Wireless Systems
- Interoperability: Audinate Dante Via
- New Revenue Potential: Biamp Systems Oreno
- Recurring Revenue Potential: Crestron PinPoint App
- Retrofit-Friendly: Vivitek NovoPRO
- Overall Grand Prize Winner: Audinate Dante Via
Additional considerations were made during the judging process in regard to how the products impact user experience (i.e. scalability, versatility, deployment cost, ease of use, ROI, ADA compliance, energy efficiency, etc.) The judging panel included NSCA’s executive director, the editor of Commercial Integrator, and a panel of integrators from across North America.
“The entries this year were outstanding, from every manufacturer in every category,” says NSCA Executive Director Chuck Wilson. “The competition this year was very strong, which made voting extremely difficult – we had so many great products to review. Our focus is to recognize manufacturers that are totally committed to our channel, and every product that entered is making use of advanced technology that can truly help integrators offer something different and creative.”
NSCA is here. Leave a Comment
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Digital Signage Federation Slates April 13 “Hangout”The Digital Signage Federation (DSF) invites DSF members and non-members alike, to attend its Wednesday, April 13 “Hangout” panel discussion at 2pm EST, on the topic of “Digital Signage & Environmental Design.”
Anyone can mount a digital sign on a wall, but integrating sign as a design element to enhance the physical environment requires forethought and planning. Architects and interior designers are now proactively working with digital signage technologies to create design statements that communicate a brand’s message or convey a company’s culture by incorporating the signage into the overall design.
Hangouts are 45-minute panel discussions using Google’s Hangout platform with a moderator and a panel of three or four industry professionals.
The panel comprised of Digital Signage professionals who are members of the DSF, will include:
- Hussain Ali, Founder & CEO, Houston Dynamic Displays
- Georgia Reid, Marketing Strategist, Parabit Systems
- (Third Panelist to be Confirmed)
In addition to sharing their thoughts on content trends, the panel may discuss issues such as:
- How digital signage can be used as a design element
- The information an architect needs to plan for the signage
- The information designers need to successfully incorporate digital signage technology
- Use case examples
- Common mistakes and missteps of design collaboration
More information on the April 13 Hangout event or other DSF events can be found on the DSF website here. Leave a Comment
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Sensory Technologies Acquires AV Solutions, a Division of Toshiba America Business SolutionsSensory Technologies just announced the acquisition of AV Solutions, a division of Toshiba America Business Solutions.
Together, the companies will consist of over 115 employees with extensive experience in helping clients connect with their customers globally through impactful, virtual meetings, improve their internal communication, accelerate their decision making, and deliver memorable, immersive experiences.
“We see this as an unbelievable opportunity to merge two leaders into an even more robust organization. This is such a natural fit due to our shared belief that it is our responsibility to develop solutions that take into consideration the ‘human factors’ of technology and insure our clients fully realize the value of their investment,” said Bill Riley, Vice President of AV Solutions.
Sensory’s footprint will expand from offices in Indianapolis, Chicago, Ft. Wayne and Dayton to include Syracuse, Buffalo and Rochester. As one of only 35 APEx certified companies globally, the company will continue to offer audio visual design and integration expertise for everything from huddle spaces to boardrooms to customized, immersive experiences. It will continue to invest heavily in its ever growing managed services, including cloud digital signage and cloud videoconferencing, onsite meeting support, asset management and video creation/management.
“This acquisition aligns perfectly with Sensory’s goal of achieving growth. We’ve been very selective in pursuing companies and are confident that we’ve found the perfect fit. The new, combined organization will offer broader and deeper technical knowledge, new product offerings, more choices and greater value to our clients,” said Derek Paquin, Principal at Sensory Technologies.
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Audio Everywhere ExXtractor System Allows for Streaming Audio from TVs to Smart PhonesAudio Everywhere released its next generation product for streaming audio from TVs and other audio sources to smart phones and tablets over Wi-Fi. The heart of the Audio Everywhere system, the ExXtractor, connects each participating venue’s audio sources, such as a DirecTV receivers, to the internal local area network (LAN). Each audio signal is then streamed over the venue’s Wi-Fi. By downloading the free Audio Everywhere app, users access the venue’s Wi-Fi to hear the audio from one or more TVs on their smart phone or tablet.
The Audio Everywhere ExXtractor features a 15-centimeter-deep, rack-mountable 1U form factor and the versatility of up to 16 inputs. Combining systems with an Ethernet switch enables more inputs.
New system features include lower latency and soft limiting on over-driven inputs. A key enhancement now enables the system to receive differential signaling, which provides increased immunity to electromagnetic noise on long wire runs. Fine control of data packet prioritization is now inherent, along with better troubleshooting tools.
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Sound Devices Adds Features to CL-12 Linear Fader ControllerSound Devices has expanded support for its CL-12 Linear Fader Controller with the release of Firmware Version 2.11, which offers compatibility to both the 664 and 633 Field Production Mixers. Initially introduced only for the 688 mixer/recorder, the CL-12 is an optional accessory that features smooth-gliding 100 millimeter linear faders and is ideal for live mixing of multiple audio signals.
In addition to CL-12 support, firmware v2.11 brings several new features to the 664 and 633 mixer/recorders, one of which is QR Codes for quick smartphone access to important online documentation, such as an approved media list and the user guide for that product. It also offers a new User Bits mode that allows jamming of external timecode user bits. With the CL-12, the 664 and 633 gain sunlight-viewable, 22-segment LED metering, plus seven-segment PFL metering with limiter activity and also offers three user-programmable buttons as well as numerous dedicated back-lit buttons for quick access to key functionalities; such as metadata entry, transport controls, track arming, routing and more.
When working with the CL-12, the 664 has a 54dB linear fader range across 12 linear faders, High Pass Filter control on channels 7-12, and Input Phase control on channels 2, 4 and 6. When attached to a CL-12, the 633 has a full 96dB linear fader range available across six linear faders, High Pass Filter control on all channels, and Input Phase control on channel 2. The CL-12 also includes two additional USB ports — one for a USB keyboard connection for efficient metadata entry, and one for powering an optional USB lamp. The CL-12 comes in two models: the standard CL-12, with aluminum sides, and the CL-12 Alaia. The CL-12 Alaia features smooth-gliding Penny & Giles faders and custom hardwood side panels in either Blonde Maple or Red Mahogany.
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Auralex Offers Studiofoam SonoTechAuralex Acoustics has launched something they are calling SonoTech, that uses Auralex’s proprietary Studiofoam. SonoTech offers effective absorption treatment, on a budget, for home studios in need of a softer aesthetic than offered by other Studiofoam products.
This unique 2″ thick profile is available in a 2′ x 2′ format and is a great choice for a variety of residential applications. SonoTech panels are available in charcoal and are made from Auralex’s long-lasting, melamine-free formula, which won’t crumble with age.
Studiofoam SonoTech panels include EZ-Stick Pro tabs for convenient mounting to most surfaces. Available from your favorite authorized Auralex dealer, Studiofoam SonoTech can be purchased in two-packs, allowing for customers to purchase acoustical treatment as budgets allow.
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Sennheiser Launches TeamConnect Wireless, Mobile Audio Conferencing Solution for Up to 24 ParticipantsSennheiser’s TeamConnect Wireless claims to bring to an end the age of conference call frustrations, delivering unmatched ease of use and excellent sound quality in a portable system for up to 24 participants.
TeamConnect Wireless offers peerless connectivity options, making any device immediately capable of establishing a professional quality conference call in seconds. Users can quickly connect their own Bluetooth smart device or computer wirelessly, with NFC making pairing with compatible devices simple. Wired connections are also possible via USB – ideal for web or video conferencing via a computer – or jack cable, so it can readily fit in to a broad range of hardware set-ups.
Simply slide the four units from the case and they automatically power up and link together. The touch-sensitive control panel on the master unit allows you to connect devices and control calls, while the satellite units have touch controls for muting or adjusting volume. TeamConnect Wireless also supports multiple simultaneous audio channels, so additional callers can be joined to an existing conference by just connecting another device.
With set up taking no time at all, TeamConnect Wireless sets the stage for a brilliant meeting. As a Sennheiser product, it delivers excellent acoustic clarity and speech intelligibility, which allows for natural conversation and improved meeting productivity.
Alongside leading edge functionality, TeamConnect Wireless is designed to be at home in even the most prestigious office environments. Use of premium materials such as glass and aluminum makes the system tough but elegant.
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RTS Debuts DKP-4016 Intercom KeypanelRTS’ new DKP-4016 desktop intercom key panel was launched at the ISE show in Amsterdam. The KP-Series is designed for a wide range of intercom applications such as broadcast production studios, theater and sports venues, houses of worship and outside broadcast (OB) trucks.
The new DKP-4016 desktop keypanel is available as both as a desktop and a wall-mount version and can be operated with all existing RTS matrices. This is ensured by a comprehensive set of connectors, including general purpose input/output (GPIO) and rear connector (RC). RJ45, Ethercon and fiber module (SFP) sockets enable full connectivity to either analog four-wire or digital IP networks; two different headset connectors (four-pin and five-pin) and one analog auxiliary (AUX) input offer numerous connectivity options.
The DKP-4016 features OMNEO IP technology on board. OMNEO is based on two key technologies — the media transmission component Dante from Audinate Pty, Australia and the system-control component OCA (Open Control Architecture). By utilizing open public standards, OMNEO provides highest interoperability, flexibility, reliability, resilience and future-proof technology. OMNEO enables a secure setup at a competitively low system cost due to the use of standard IT components, simplified installation and lower maintenance costs.
Like all new KP-series devices, the DKP-4016 desktop keypanel features a full-color, wide-angle high-definition display, which is always readable — even under difficult lighting conditions. The 16 four-way lever keys are ergonomically designed for the specific use as desktop/wall-mount versions and provide listen/talk and cross point level functions.
The DKP-4016 desktop keypanel delivers superior audio quality free of noise and other audible artifacts. Sturdy housing and field-tested lever-keys also contribute to the improved usability of KP-Series keypanels. A lockable power connector ensures interruption-free operation, especially in the wall-mount configuration. Rubber feet at the bottom of the device provide maximum stability. The DKP-4016 desktop keypanel is also suitable for expanding its functions via future software updates.
The RTS DKP-4016 will be available worldwide in spring 2016. More details are here. Leave a Comment
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Proxima Debuts Laser Phosphor ProjectorProxima Displays Corporation announced the release of the LP7000U, a laser-phosphor DLP WUXGA (1920×1200) resolution projector. The LP7000U is the first in a series of planned laser-phosphor projectors that Proxima Displays says they will roll out in 2016.
Featuring a brightness spec of 7,000 lumens and WUXGA 1920×1200 resolution (using a single chip DLP), the LP7000U inputs include VGA, HDMI, DVI/Display port and network content RJ45 inputs. The LP7000U ships with the standard lens, and offers three additional lens options, from rear projection through shows-throw. It’s spec’d to last 20,000 hours.
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Vivitek Ships New DU8090Z Laser-Phosphor ProjectorVivitek announced that the DU8090Z laser projector, using a laser light source spec’d at 20,000 hours of operation time and 8,000 ANSI lumens of brightness. The projector is aimed at installs for conference halls, auditoriums and theaters.
With built-in edge-blending, warping and portrait mode projection with 360 degrees, the Vivitek DU8090Z is a versatile projector, designed for multiple applications. The DU8090Z is native WUXGA (1920×1200) resolution and includes the DLP and BrilliantColor technologies from Texas Instruments. The DU8090Z specs a contrast ratio of 10,000:1.
In addition to the 3D compatibility and a wide range of interchangeable optical lenses, the DU8090Z features a full suite of connectivity options including HDMI 1.4a, DVI-D, component 5BNC, 3G-SDI and HDBaseT interface support for the distribution of HD video contents over a standard CAT5e/6 LAN cable.
Easy to set up and install, the Vivitek DU8090Z has a wide range of interchangeable lenses available to choose from, as well as motorized focus and zoom in addition to horizontal and vertical lens shift for greater installation flexibility and 10 predefined lens positions which are registered in the Lens Position Memory (LPM).
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Extron Ships XTP II CrossPoint Matrix Switchers with 50 Gbps Backplane and XTP 3G-SDI Input BoardExtron is shipping its new XTP II CrossPoint 3200 and XTP II CrossPoint 1600 matrix switchers along with the XTP CP 4i 3G‑SDI input board. XTP II CrossPoint matrix switchers have the industry’s first 50 Gbps switching backplanes. The modular design can be configured in sizes up to 16×16 or 32×32 with signal routing capabilities that can support 4K/60 video with 4:4:4 chroma sampling at 16 bits per color (this matters as most 4K switchers we have seen announced over the last 6-10 months have a 4:2:2 or 4:2:0 chroma sampling rate). XTP II is the only AV technology platform that supports uncompromised 4K video while providing additional bandwidth to accommodate anticipated future video resolutions and formats. The XTP CP 4i 3G‑SDI input board provides seamless integration of broadcast video sources into professional applications, such as cameras for videoconference environments and live events. The XTP CP 4i 3G‑SDI board features four 3G‑SDI inputs with stereo audio and buffered loop-throughs and automatically adapts to SMPTE and ITU standards for 3G‑SDI, HD‑SDI, and SDI signals.
XTP II CrossPoint matrix switchers can be configured with a variety of boards to provide a completely integrated switching and distribution solution for multiple digital and analog formats. With local connectivity, as well as twisted pair and 4K fiber optic extended transmission, XTP Systems are known in the industry to offer complete end-to-end AV system solutions of uncompromised quality and performance. The XTP II line is the definitive AV industry standard you can depend on now and in the future to meet the challenges of 4K and beyond.
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PureLink Debuts 4K SwitcherPureLink has debuted two 4K matrix switchers in the form of the HTX-4400-U and HTX-8800-U, 4×4 and 8×8 switchers, respectively.
The HTX U series provides 4×4 and 8×8 models that support Ultra HD 1.4b at the inputs and convert to HDBaseT outputs. The HTX U series also provides RS232 extension to each HDBaseT receiver location, as well as an Ethernet hub feature. PureLink does NOT specify the Chroma Sampling rate so we are guessing it is likely 4:2:0) at a true 4K resolution (4096×2160).
Each extender is provided both transmit and receive ports for Infrared (IR) control. Each extender is powered from the main switch via PoE (Power over Ethernet), or you can utilize the locking local power connector if desired. The HDBaseT receivers will extend up to 328 feet (100 meters) and the HTX U systems supports HDCP 2.2.
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ATEN Adds 4K to CS782DP DisplayPort KVM SwitchATEN International today released a new addition to its KVM product line — the CS782DP 2-Port USB DisplayPort KVM Switch. The CS782DP supports resolutions up to 3840×2160 at 60Hz (4:2:0). The device allows users to access two 4K-enabled USB computers from a single USB keyboard, USB mouse and DisplayPort monitor.
The CS782DP provides effortless switching between computers via Remote Port Selector, Hotkeys and Mouse. It also supports 2.1 channel surround sound systems and HD audio for a heightened audio experience. The compact CS782DP is DisplayPort 1.2 compliant and has the added versatility of Multi-Stream Transport (MST) and DisplayPort Dual Mode (DP++) support. These features make multi monitor configurations and the use of DVI and HDMI monitors possible.
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Extron Intros Big Control Processor with Dedicated AV LAN PortLooks like Extron is getting closer and closer to the high-end control market as they just launched the IPCP Pro 555 a high-end IP Link Pro control processor with a dedicated AV LAN port. It features advanced security standards and dual Gigabit Ethernet ports, which are designed to ensure compatibility with multiple TouchLink Pro touchpanels using a standard network infrastructure. Of the two Ethernet ports, the AV LAN is designated to control local AV devices, and is secure from outside interference or intrusion. The IPCP Pro 555 can be used with Extron LinkLicense, which further enhances the capabilities of Extron Pro Series control systems. The IPCP Pro 555 is an ideal choice for controlling multiple devices and signal types within AV systems requiring an isolated AV network.
The IPCP Pro 555 features a DHCP server for the AV LAN that streamlines system setup and management. It automatically distributes IP addresses and network configuration parameters for the AV devices connected to the local AV LAN. In addition, the AV LAN port permits communications from the Ethernet port for remote management and firmware updates for Extron devices, and restricts other Ethernet traffic. The IPCP Pro 555 can be configured and customized using Extron Global Configurator Plus or Global Configurator Professional. It is also compatible with GlobalViewer Enterprise software.
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DVIGear Launches 4K MultiViewer Switcher and ScalerDVIGear is expanding its line of switching and scaling products with the new DVI-3580a 4K MultiViewer Switcher / Scaler. The DVI-3580a accepts up to seven video inputs: four HDMI (or DVI), two DisplayPort and one RGB/YPbPr analog (VGA). The unit supports a broad range of input signal formats and resolutions up to 4K/60p (4:4:4 on the DisplayPort inputs). The selected input signal is routed to two mirrored outputs, one HDMI and one HDBaseT. The HDBaseT output is POH (Power over HDBaseT) compliant, so a compatible receiver unit (model DVI-7520-RX — sold separately) may be remotely powered from the DVI-3580a unit over the HDBaseT link. This MultiViewer can simultaneously display up to four video signals with resolutions up to 4K, which are displayed in four possible layouts: single, double, triple or quadruple. Any input signal can be displayed in any MultiViewer window.
In addition to this device’s video capabilities, the DVI-3580a also includes audio embedding as well as de-embedded audio outputs. Each video input is coupled with an analog stereo audio input connection. The unit includes three audio outputs: HDMI / HDBaseT embedded audio, eight-channel (7.1) analog audio and TOSLINK optical audio. User-adjustable lip-sync correction is provided. This unit may be controlled via a variety of options, including LAN (built-in Web GUI or Telnet), RS232, IR remote control and front panel selections.
The DVI-3580a includes EDID Management capabilities that allow each connected source device to be presented with a unique EDID from a variety of possible files, including: one of six factory installed EDID values, the EDID from the connected HDMI or HDBaseT display or one of seven custom EDID values that can be stored in the unit’s memory. EDID values can also be downloaded from and uploaded into any custom EDID memory, which allows the possibility of off-line EDID editing and the creation of custom EDID files.
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Kramer Releases VIA Site ManagementKramer today released something they are calling VIA Site Management (VSM), an enterprise-wide management platform that lets VIA administrators control and configure all VIA devices in a network from a single window. VSM is part of the Kramer VIA family of Wireless Presentation & Collaboration Solutions.
VSM’s web-based interface gives users at-a-glance visibility from any PC, laptop or tablet across the entire VIA environment. With an integrated dashboard, administrators can monitor real-time performance data and usage, perform simultaneous firmware updates, and optimize every VIA device in the network.
The platform’s pricing model is based on the number of VIA units being managed and VSM supports both Windows and Linux systems.
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Comprehensive Unveils the New 4K HDMI 4×4 Matrix Switcher and ExtenderComprehensive Connectivity just introduced the Pro AV/IT HDBaseT 4K@60 (YUV420) 4×4 Matrix Switcher/Extender with Receivers.
Comprehensive’s CSW-HDBT44K330 Pro AV/IT HDBaseT 4K@60 (YUV420 — or, translation is 4:2:0 @ 60Hz and 4:2:2 at 30Hz) 4×4 Matrix Switcher/Extender (CSW-HDBT44K330) not only offers options to switch up to four HDMI Input and Output sources, but extends the uncompressed audio/video and data sources over a Cat5e/6/7 cable at a distance up to 330 feet away via HDBaseT.
The CSW-HDBT44K330 kit features 4×4 HDBaseT matrix switching reliability with matching compact PoE (Power over Ethernet) Receivers for low form factor behind displays and is controlled through the bi-directional IR, RS232. The CSW-HDBT44K330 is HDMI 2.0 and HCP 2.2 compliant, supports EDID management, supports LPCM 7.1CH, Dolby TrueHD, Dolby Digital Plus and DTS-HD Master Audio Transmission and switches any four HDMI inputs to any one of four HDMI outputs.
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Extron eBUS Accessories Enable Control System ExpansionExtron has introduced two new eBUS system accessories, the EBDB and the PS 1220EB, that are specifically for expanding control systems. The Extron EBDB is an eBUS distribution hub that reduces cable runs by providing a convenient connection point for eBUS wiring infrastructure. The EBDB is designed for larger or more complex control systems that require a more elaborate cabling infrastructure. A front panel status LED indicates when power is present on one of the 10 eBUS distribution ports. All ports are connected in parallel, allowing each port to act as an input or an output for eBUS communication.
The Extron PS 1220EB is a 12 volt, 24 watt, rack mountable eBUS power supply and distribution hub. The PS 1220EB provides additional power for larger or more complex control systems and reduces cable runs by providing a convenient connectivity point for eBUS devices. Parallel and interchangeable eBUS distribution ports allow each port to act as an input or an output port. For the PS 1220EB, each port provides 12 VDC of power to connected eBUS devices.
eBUS button panels connect to a Pro Series control processor and use a unique digital bus architecture that allows for easy control system expansion, greater design options, and future upgrades. This efficient, expandable design allows a button panel to be used as a single user interface in a smaller system or combined with other button panels and touchpanels when a more elaborate control system is required. Buttons can be easily customized using Extron Button Label Generator software or by using the online Custom Button Builder application.
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Sharp Launches PN-V550 Full-HD Professional LED DisplaySharp expands its PN-V video wall series with the launch of its 55″ Class (54.6″ diagonal) PN-V550 LED Ultra-Slim Bezel professional monitor. With a bezel-to-bezel width of just 3.5mm, the PN-V550 features Sharp’s Uniform Color Calibration Technology (UCCT), Sharp claims the industry’s first and only factory calibration process that delivers out-of-the box pixel to pixel color uniformity between multiple video wall monitors — encompassing chromatic intensity, luminance, and hue.
The energy-efficient PN-V550 monitor combines full-HD (1920×1080) resolution with a brightness of 500 cd/m2 to deliver stunningly bright and detailed images to complement virtually any commercial or public space. Whether in a shopping mall, hotel, control room, transport hub, or conference hall, these monitors will convey messages with overwhelming style and precision around the clock, seven days a week. The video wall is not the only thing about this product that’s huge: The PN-V550 display is nearly 40 percent lighter and 40 percent more energy efficient than the Sharp 60″ Class (60″ diagonal) PN-V600A Professional Video Wall Display.
Features Include:
- Easy Video Wall Assembly/Connection: Video walls are easy to assemble and simple to control via RS-232C interface or network. Four monitors set up in a 2×2 configuration, for example, display every pixel of native 4K Ultra HD (3840×2160 pixels) content, equivalent to a 110″ Class (109.2″ diagonal) screen.
- Mirror Frames: Optional Mirror Frames in video walls help lessen the visible lines between monitors by reflecting images of the display content. This creates a smoother big-picture effect.
- Remote Control Sensor Box: A remote control sensor box is available so all of the monitors in a video wall configuration can be conveniently operated through one remote control.
- Safe Handling: All four corners are fitted with robust carrying handles that help enable safe transport and easy, time-saving installation.
it lists for $6595 and full specs are here. Leave a Comment
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X2O Media Intros Unified Digital Workplace Solution X2O.JoinX2O Media, a Barco company, will debut its new X2O.Join connected desktop app next week.
X2O.Join extends the power of the X2O platform by allowing users to browse and view any channel on the X2O network, where channels featuring data-driven graphics, video, social media content and more can be displayed as floating windows on the desktop or used as screensavers. In addition, widgets containing bite-sized amounts of real-time information can be pinned to the desktop for continuous updates. Channels can also be sent as targeted pop-up notifications and shared with colleagues. Finally, in the event of an emergency, critical alerts, security or safety announcements can be displayed quickly and easily across the network as well.
Designed to deliver real-time visual communications to the right audience, at the right time, on the right device, the X2O platform transforms enterprises into digital workplaces by providing employees tools to create, distribute, and view dynamic visual channels. The X2O platform easily manages and delivers media-rich content in four solution areas:
- The Connected Desktop enables users to view and interact with channels and content widgets directly from their desktops or laptops via the X2O.Join app. Specific use cases include company news channels, business information dashboards, interactive polls and live alerts.
- The Connected Workspace supports multiple users, where teams collaborate in a shared virtual workspace, either in-person in a huddle room or remotely via interactive touchscreens and mobile devices, desktops, and laptops — enabling information sharing, collaboration, polling participation and more.
- The Connected Workplace promotes communications in real-time through connected screens and devices found throughout a facility such as digital signage, interactive touchscreens, video walls, IP phones or wearable devices.
- The Connected Workforce enables organizations to share real-time content with a global community of connected users and remote workers through mobile devices, cross-campus digital signage networks, and online communication tools. This means companies can maintain up-to-date communications across entire workforces, regardless of location.
X2O Media’s X2O.Join is here. Leave a Comment
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Nureva Creates a 30′ Surround Version of SpanNureva announced the creation of a 30-foot (9.1 meters) immersive collaboration environment that surrounds teams with their digital content. The surround experience is created by three panoramic projectors installed on adjoining walls and enabled by a multi-display setup tool in Span software. This tool links the computers and merges the cloud-based canvas across the three systems. The resulting immersive environment gives teams a truly expansive view of their content, which comprises digital sticky notes, sketches, images and flip charts.
This configuration transforms huddle rooms into rich environments for creativity and innovation. As in any project room, team members benefit from being close to their content. Every detail is within easy reach, and content can be fluidly and efficiently moved across walls and around corners. Panning at any location seamlessly moves the whole canvas and its contents around all three walls. The result is more efficient collaboration and an enhanced sensory experience with users reporting reduced distractions and a heightened focus on their content. Team members can quickly identify connections, fill in gaps and see relationships that spark new ideas. In addition, the system’s cloud-based software enables in-room and remote participants to access the material any time through personal devices.
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