Volume 15, Issue 13 — July 6, 2017
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Industry News Audio Unified Collaborative Conferencing Control & Signal Processing Media Players, Recording & Distribution Cables, Cases, Furniture, Mounts, Racks, Screens & Accessories
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Nanosys Details the Future of Quantum Dots
By Chris Chinnock Founder and President, Insight Media
Quantum dot manufacturer Nanosys was at SID DisplayWeek speaking about quantum dots in the Business Conference, presenting papers in the symposium session and showcasing its technology on the exhibit floor while also revealing some future innovation in backroom discussions. In all, the take away is that quantum dots hold great promise to provide a range of new innovations for displays in the coming years.
Most of the quantum dots that Nanosys makes today are Cd-based. These go into films produced by 3M that have shown up in TVs to date. At last year’s SID, Nanosys introduced a hybrid quantum dot solution call Hyperion which uses Cd-based green and a Cd-free red quantum dots to meet the RoHS requirements for heavy metals. This trend toward Cd-free will continue, so the company is mostly focused on these formulations going forward.
At SID this year, the company showed a modified Hisense TV that contains the new Hyperion quantum dots embedded in a film produced by Hitachi Chemical. The “photo-enhanced” type of QD display has a spectral performance that is quite good with the green having a Full Width Half Max (FWHM) of 25 nm at 520 nm and less than 40 nm for the red at 644 nm. When coupled with the blue light at 450 nm with a FWHM of 20 nm, a display should be able to achieve 94% area coverage of the BT.2020 color gamut. Hitachi Chemical plans to go to mass production with this film in the second half of 2017, so expect TVs in the market in 2018.
The next step for quantum dots is likely to be their placement in the color filter of an LCD. Called “photo-emissive” by Nanosys, this means the light from blue backlight will pass through the LCD panel and all the way to the color filters before color conversion. The big advantage of placing the quantum dots here is a huge increase in optical efficiency as the RGB filter are not discarding two-thirds of the light even with a QD film solution. Such an advantage may be used to make more power efficient TVs with the same brightness or ones with tons of overhead in terms of peak luminance.
The other major advantage is a more Lambertian light distribution from the LCD display – one of the weak points of today’s LCDs. And, with the elimination of the cross talk in conventional color filters, the QD-in-colorfilter approach enables a color gamut of 90% of BT.2020 with Cd-free materials.
The placement of the quantum dots in the color filters raises two challenging issues, however. For one, the second polarizer, which is normally after the color filter, needs to be moved inside the LCD cell because the quantum dots depolarize the light. Panel and TV makers are working on this solution now.
The other issue is quantum dot design and the manufacturing process. For the design, you want to be sure your quantum dots have extremely high absorption in a very thin layer so as not to have blue light leakage in the red and green sub-pixels. Nanosys says they have now met that challenge.
Next, one has to decide about the color filter plus QD manufacturing process. One approach is to use photoresist embedded with quantum dots (QDPR), but this a subtractive process so perhaps too costly for mass adoption when embedded with the expensive quantum dots – but maybe not for mciroLEDs.
Alternatively, one can consider an ink printing process that is additive and more appropriate for direct-view displays. The key question here is can you define sub-pixel structures that meet the performance and manufacturing requirements? Here again, Nanosys, working with partners, claims to be solving this problem. In their back room, they showed images of 180 x 580 micron printed color filters with embedded quantum dots and a 5 micron thickness that is now very close to meeting manufacturer requirements (there is still some slight blue leakage in the red channel). Ink jet printers with 10 heads are ready and customers are now evaluating this process. As a result, it seems likely that we will see demonstration of TVs with QD color filters at CES 2018 – and maybe even TVs in the market by the end of 2018.
Beyond this, Nanosys is working to develop quantum dots and processes that allow their direct use on standard LEDs and on microLEDs. Current ink jet printing processes may be acceptable for conventional LEDs, but for microLEDs where the pixel pitch will be 10 microns or smaller, new methods of deposition are needed.
Finally, Nanosys and others are working on electroluminescent quantum dot technology. While all the above configurations activate the quantum dots with higher energy light, electroluminescent quantum dots use current and electrons to stimulate light emission in much the same way that OLEDs do. Most think such displays will not be commercially viable until 2020 or 2021.
So, there are many exciting new ways for quantum dots to be used in displays and it is still early days. While other wide color gamut solutions like OLEDs and phosphors can achieve DCI-P3 color gamuts, most believe they will be hard pressed to get to BT.2020 color gamut coverage – something quantum dots should excel at. Leave a Comment
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As-a-What? The Trend From Ownership to Use
By Jean Pierre Overbeek CEO, BIS Group
Monday morning. The alarm rings, a bit too early for my liking. I probably shouldn’t have watched the last two series on Netflix yesterday evening after the traditional Sunday evening football matches on TV… after the morning ritual of having a shower, getting dressed, having breakfast and coffee, I check my first emails of today on my tablet. I check out a number of social media sites and read some newspapers. The paper versions have ceased to exist a couple of years ago. This is now all digital with a handy app that selects the interesting newspapers for me. After saying goodbye to my family, I drive off to the office. I am one of the hundreds of thousands of Dutch people owning a company car. In the car, I enjoy good music for half an hour via Spotify on my mobile before the hectic pace of the day starts. No traffic jams today. Despite the slow start this morning, I arrive well on time at the office. A rental property by the way. We want to remain flexible with our housing because of the recent growth of our activity.
At the office, the first appointment of today is with our CFO. We have decided to analyze our gas, water and electricity consumption. With just over 220 employees, we are a medium-sized business user and because of the great dynamics in the energy market, this offers opportunities to also achieve our CSR ambitions in this field by dealing differently with our energy, e.g., start using green energy. In addition, it is an interesting session to gain insight into our costs again. In my private life I am also aware of this again thanks to the campaign of a major Rotterdam energy company giving insight into the energy consumption at consumers with ‘Toon’ by supplying a smart energy meter virtually for free at a new energy contract. This leads to great awareness.
After the appointment with our CFO, we have an evaluation with the management of our IT department. They are going through a busy period. We are in the middle of a migration to a new ERP system of Exact containing, among other things, HRM and CRM modules. All these solutions are cloud based. We have also provided all our employees with Microsoft Office 365 this year. In addition, we fully updated our entire printer park. The word printer park actually doesn’t cover it. Our copiers and scanners, together with the printers, have become so-called multi-functionals. Despite working more and more digitally, we believed that the time had come to update this park. In short, our IT specialists had quite a lot of pizza and Chinese takeaway at the offices in the last months… as much of the migration work is conducted after office hours.
In the meantime, I receive a call from one of my children. The Wi-Fi doesn’t work properly at home. With a number of assignments that they must carry out for school this is a rather big challenge. She cannot even access her iCloud files. At least, that’s the main reason. I presume that not being able to reach various social media sites also plays a role, but I give her the number of the help desk and wish her good luck. She has bad memories of the last school holidays, which was a more-than-great holiday by the way, but at the all-inclusive resort the Wi-Fi was less than great. We couldn’t even write home. So I had to explain to my youngest child what a postcard is. A great phenomenon. He grew up with WhatsApp, Instagram and Snapchat. “But dad, we will arrive home before the post card arrives? And how can grandpa and grandma reply to the card? Also with a postcard?” Suddenly I really feel 43.
Why are some of the words in this article in bold, you may think? Well, that’s relatively easy. To my mind, all the things described above are not very revolutionary and truly recognizable to many people. I work for a great and dynamic business, which provides the business market of professional audiovisual and related IT solutions. A company characterized by rapidly changing innovations in the transfer of image and sound. A great business. Our organization provides solutions that increasingly end up in the so-called primary process at our clients. In other words, our business connections can often no longer carry out their work without our solutions. This year, we will provide approximately 6,000 spaces such as classrooms, auditoria, waiting and meeting rooms in hospitals, meeting rooms and conference rooms with these solutions. That’s why we consider IT and AV solutions as the fourth utility, in addition to gas, water and electricity. I can assure you, when on holiday — just like their peers — my children prefer good Wi-Fi and as fifth in the row (three children and mum and dad), a lukewarm shower over a hot shower, but no poor Wi-Fi.
In addition, all bold issues ended up in my life “as-a-service.” I pay a sum monthly for the service and I am flexible in its use. I haven’t purchased any of the bold issues — not in my private life and not for work either. For you probably the same applies.
That’s why, as an organization, we had the idea to offer our solutions and products in the same manner to our business connections. Yet a number of industry peers seem somewhat skeptical. Supply audiovisual solutions as a service? Solutions that virtually all need a hardware and/or software update after three years in their relatively short lifespan and after five years of upgrading or even a technology swap, we entirely change the products for new ones. Why would clients want this as a service?
My answer? Tell me one reason why not… all other utilities are also offered as a service.
This column was reprinted with permission from Jean Pierre Overbeek and originally appeared here. Leave a Comment
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rAVe [Infographics]: The History of the ProjectorEver wonder how this entire industry got started? Some argue it was the speaker, and others says it was the projector that kick-started the AV Industry, as we know it today. We’ll take a look at the speaker later this summer, but for now, let’s look at the history of the projector — rAVe [Infographics] style!
We have partnered with Johnnie & Co. to create this series. Johnnie & Co. offers unique web-design services for the AV integrator community — check them out here.
Click here to see the full size infographic. Leave a Comment
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AptoVision Acquired by Semtech Corporation Semtech Corporation, a supplier of analog, mixed-signal semiconductors and algorithms, today announced the signing of a definitive agreement to acquire AptoVision Technologies Inc., a privately-held provider of uncompressed, zero-frame latency, Video over IP solutions addressing the exciting Pro AV market. The acquisition is expected to add over 30 employees based in Montreal. AptoVision CEO Kamran Ahmed will join Semtech reporting to Gary Beauchamp, executive vice president and general manager of Semtech’s Signal Integrity Products Group.
Under the terms of the purchase agreement, Semtech will acquire the outstanding equity interests of AptoVision for a cash purchase price of $28 million and additional contingent consideration of up to $47 million subject to achieving certain future financial goals. Semtech expects to fund the purchase price using its current cash assets.
Software Defined Video over Ethernet (SDVoE) is the only approach to Video over IP based on an interoperable ecosystem of Pro AV products and companies, and AptoVision’s BlueRiver technology is the underlying technology driving SDVoE applications and ecosystem. The technology is being quickly adopted into Pro AV applications, and several tier one companies are launching SDVoE-based products. AptoVision’s BlueRiver technology addresses the need for flexible software defined AV that can be carried over low-cost IP networks without compression or latency which is critical to support these applications.
The unique combination of AptoVision’s advanced algorithms for real-time, full bandwidth video transmission over IP networks, and Semtech’s industry leading high-speed signal integrity and chip development expertise is expected to enable SDVoE to accelerate this natural progression in the evolution of video transport.
The acquisition, subject to customary closing conditions, is expected to close during the Company’s current fiscal quarter. Semtech does not expect the acquisition to have any material impact to the financial outlook for its second quarter of fiscal year 2018 that was provided on May 31, 2017. The Company expects the deal to be neutral to its fiscal year 2018 non-GAAP earnings and to be accretive to its fiscal year 2019 non-GAAP earnings. Leave a Comment
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NSCA Announces 2017-2018 Board of Directors NSCA announced the election of new officers to its board of directors for 2017-2018. The following professionals joined the NSCA board of directors and began their three-year terms on July 1, 2017:
- Brad Caron, president and wwner, SIGNET Electronic Systems
- Dale Bottcher, senior vice president of sales and marketing, AVI-SPL
- Christina De Bono, president, ClearTech Media
Dale Bottcher has helped AV and IT technology managers realize their visions in all types of applications and environments – from largescale training centers to flexible huddle rooms. He currently leads AVI-SPL’s sales strategy with enterprise accounts and public-sector clients.
Brad Caron has 30 years of experience in the systems integration industry. He has overseen SIGNET’s growth from $1.8 million to more than $30 million in annual revenue. He identifies future strategies, ways to recognize existing and recruit new talent, and ideas for leveraging the experience and expertise of SIGNET’s vice presidential team.
Christina De Bono has 20 years of experience in the commercial AV industry. Her background involves handling high-profile videoconferencing and AV projects with corporations and higher-education institutions. In the past two years, she has dedicated her time to leading ClearTech’s successful transition to a service-based revenue model.
Bottcher, Caron, and De Bono join the following board members who are continuing their terms from last year:
- Ray Bailey, president, Lone Star Communications
- Anne Sellers, managing principal, Sensory Technologies
- Rob Simopoulos, partner, Launch Security
All NSCA board of directors executive committee members are continuing their positions from 2016-2017:
- NSCA President: Kelly McCarthy, president, Genesis Integration
- NSCA Immediate Past President: Michael Hester, founder, Beacon Communications
- NSCA Vice President: Josh Shanahan, president and CEO, Sport View Technologies
- NSCA Secretary: Michael Boettcher, CEO, Advanced AV
- NSCA Treasurer: Dave Ferlino, regional operations manager, Whitlock
NSCA is here. Leave a Comment
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beyerdynamic inc. Launches New TG 1000 Wireless System with Dante beyerdynamic, inc. will show a new version of the TG 1000 digital wireless system at InfoComm. This 24-bit system now has a Dante interface and can be integrated into digital audio networks based on the Audinate solution. The TG 1000 dual receiver is equipped with a Dante network interface in the form of an RJ45 connector flanked by status LEDs on the back of the 19” device (1 HU).
The beyerdynamic TG 1000 wireless system has a switching bandwidth of 319 MHz in the UHF range (470 – 789 MHz) and is integrated with an OLED display, one button navigation and Chameleon software. Up to six dual receivers can be cascaded without the need for external antenna splitters.
The total latency from transmitter to receiver is only 2.1 milliseconds. In optimal environmental conditions, the transition range can reach up to 984 feet. There is an assortment of capsules available for the TG 1000 handheld transmitter that, in addition to dynamic variants and condenser capsules, also includes the beyerdynamic TG V90w ribbon module. The TG MM1w interchangeable capsule can be used in combination with the TG 1000 handheld transmitter to calibrate public address systems in theatres, at live concerts and at festivals.
Here are all the specs. Leave a Comment
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QSC Debuts New AcousticDesign Column Surface-Mount Loudspeakers
QSC has announced the addition of column surface-mount loudspeakers to its AcousticDesign (AD) Series. This premium line extension, which will debut at InfoComm 2017, are designed for a wide variety of foreground and background applications and solves reverberant issues in high-ceiling spaces.
The new AD-S802T has eight 2.5” vertically oriented drivers while the AD-S162T has sixteen 2.5” vertically oriented drivers; both are high quality, 70/100V or 8 ohm bypass, full-range systems. They come equipped with a unique pan/tilt mounting system that offers multiple positioning locations, allowing the loudspeaker to remain close to the wall while offering the flexibility to deliver up to a -20° downward tilt. This makes installation even easier and reduces “live load” labor time while on the ladder.
As part of the AcousticDesign Series, the new column surface-mount loudspeakers share a similar sleek unobtrusive design with the rest of the line, which allows them to blend with the aesthetics of any room. In addition, they exhibit the same robust environmental qualities associated with all AcousticDesign surface-mount models making them ideal for indoor and outdoor usage.
Here are the details. Leave a Comment
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beyerdynamic Launces Quinta TB Wireless Boundary Microphonebeyerdynamic, inc. will launch their new Quinta TB Wireless Boundary Microphone at InfoComm 2017next week. The Quinta TB wireless boundary microphones from the beyerdynamic Quinta product line is specifically for voice transmission during video conferences.
Different operating modes can be set using the system software. In microphone mode, the Quinta CU acts as a multi-channel receiver, in which case a maximum of four Quinta TB’s (depending on the size of the room and the number of participants) can be operated simultaneously. In this mode, the software can be used to connect several central control units. In the conference mode, the Quinta TB acts as a delegate microphone unit and can be used for any traditional conference applications.
Quinta Triple Band technology ensures uninterrupted transmission. The system operates with the highest HD audio quality and 128 bit encryption and a 24-bit PIN code guarantee protection against eavesdropping. The system is distinguished by its speedy recharging time and a long operating time of at least 14 hours. A three-color backlit button with tactile feedback and Braille makes the device accessible, shows all participants the status of the microphone and enables use of the global mute, push-to-talk and push-to-mute modes.
The microphones can be operated with the fully equipped Quinta CU or the new Quinta RS control unit, which has been designed for small meetings and video conferences at an attractive price-performance ratio.
Here are detailed specs. Leave a Comment
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Audio-Technica Debuts ATDM-0604 Digital SmartMixerAudio-Technica is debuting its ATDM-0604 Digital SmartMixer. Featuring echo-canceling and flexible web remote functionality, the ATDM-0604 is a six-channel automatic mixer ideal for meetings, conferences, soft codec applications, courtroom proceedings, radio and TV broadcasts and other applications involving the use of multiple microphones or other media inputs.
Audio-Technica’s SmartMixer technology allows channels to be mixed automatically in gate or gain sharing mode, ensuring consistent, high-quality audio output from all inputs in a setup, without the introduction of feedback, excessive ambient noise, or comb filtering. Controls and LED indicators on the mixer’s front panel allow users to easily adjust input/output and gain levels, set and recall presets, turn on/off phantom power, low-cut filter, automatic mixing and acoustic echo cancellation (AEC), change IP configuration (Auto or Static) and more. A full complement of digital signal processing is available for inputs and outputs including parametric EQ, compressor, limiter and feedback control. Control and monitoring tools are accessible locally on the front panel or via the Web Remote interface, which allows users to handle the aforementioned adjustments from a Windows-based PC, Mac, iOS or Android device, plus make additional changes to the input and output settings, select gate or gain sharing mode when using Smart Mix, and adjust other advanced settings.
The mixer is equipped with four balanced microphone inputs, two balanced mic/line inputs and one unbalanced stereo input, along with two balanced and two unbalanced outputs. Network (Cat5e or better) and USB ports are also included, as are A/B Audio-Technica Link ports that let users connect six ATDM-0604 mixers via Cat5e cable for simultaneous use within an expanded setup.
ATDM-0604 features:
- Four balanced mic inputs, two balanced Mic/Line inputs and one stereo unbalanced input
- One stereo and two mono outputs
- Two channel USB audio interface for soft codec (Skype, WebEx) integration or playback from computer
- Full digital processing on inputs and outputs
- 8 x 3 audio routing matrix
- Six-channel Smart Mix (gate or gain sharing)
- Onboard acoustic echo canceler (AEC) processing
- Front panel direct operation and Web Remote functionality
- IP control for third-party CCS administration
- Up to six mixers can be linked using Cat5e cable
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Crestron Debuts New Vector Loudspeakers at InfoComm Crestron just introduced their new Vector performance loudspeakers, which are specifically designed for use in large commercial spaces, such as auditoriums, lecture halls, and divisible rooms. Vector is a line of loudspeakers, starting with a 6” coaxial up to 12” and 15” models and includes dual 18” subwoofers.
Vector performance loudspeakers are designed to work with Avia DSPs and Avia Audio Tool. Here are all the details. Leave a Comment
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ClearOne Adds Two New DSP Mixers to Its CONVERGE Pro 2 Lineup ClearOne launches two new and affordable CONVERGE Pro 2 DSP mixers, joining the already impressive lineup. The new CONVERGE Pro 2 48V provides four mic/line inputs with ClearOne’s next-generation Acoustic Echo Cancellation (AEC) technology, eight mic/line outputs and a VoIP interface with two default phone lines — and three more available through a software upgrade.
The 48V shares an important distinction with its two VoIP counterparts, the 128V and the 128VD, being Cisco and Avaya certified with a native interface for Skype for Business; the free software upgrade is coming in Q3.
The new CONVERGE Pro 2 012 is a 12-mic-line outputs-only DSP mixer providing the option of increased outputs when required. It creates a neat, economical solution to what might otherwise require a more expensive design.
Here are all the specs. Leave a Comment
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Earthworks Debuts CTF Tabletop Gooseneck MicrophonesEarthworks has introduced the CTF tabletop gooseneck microphones with integrated base designed for conferencing and speech applications. This integrated solution provides the flexibility of temporarily placing the microphone on a table for ad-hoc meeting spaces or permanently affixing it to a surface.
Spec’d at a flat frequency response and near-perfect cardioid polar pattern, the CTF microphones deliver speech intelligibility and reliable coverage for speakers. And, RF shielding is incorporated into the microphone’s electronic design to prevent interference from cell phones and other electronic devices.
The low profile base measures just 4.1 inches in diameter and comes with a 10 feet (3.04-meters) cable with XLR-3M attached, which is designed to exit from the side or bottom of the microphone base. Mounting holes are included on the microphone base to make it possible to permanently affix the microphone to a flat surface. The XLR can be removed, allowing the cable to run through a small hole in the table surface for permanent installation, providing a low profile and elegant miking solution. Available with 10 or 12 inch rigid center goosenecks and a black finish, the primary applications for the CTF10 and CTF12 include conference rooms, boardrooms, classrooms, lecterns and houses of worship.
The will ship in August and here are the specs. Leave a Comment
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InFocus Grows ConX With New Mondopad Flex Aimed at Collaboration in Huddle SpacesInFocus Corporation today announces its new Mondopad Flex video collaboration system. The system features two 40-inch HD projected-capacitive touchscreens that have integrated video conferencing, interactive whiteboarding, presentation, annotation and data sharing for collaboration in executive offices, huddle spaces or any challenging install that requires flexibility in screen configuration.
Mondopad Flex comprises two 40-inch full HD projective capacity touch-enabled screens with an HD video conferencing system, interactive whiteboard, audio conferencing, and a powerful PC. Able to perform a myriad of functions, Mondopad Flex allows team members in huddle spaces, offices or other small areas unable to accommodate a large single display to connect, see and hear colleagues anywhere. Using InFocus ConX Cloud with Mondopad Flex, teams can brainstorm on a shared whiteboard and collaboratively edit documents and draw directly onscreen, enabling real-time collaboration and more effective meetings. Documents can be saved to the Mondopad for future access, stored to the network, or emailed to anyone directly from the device.
Mondopad Flex runs Microsoft Windows 10 Pro, and features a sixth-generation Intel Core i7-6700T processor and Q170 chipset with Intel vPro technology, with 8GB memory and a 256 GB solid state hard drive. The Mondopad Flex seamlessly and securely integrates into existing enterprise infrastructure and is an easy-to-configure, out-of-the-box solution. Supporting SIP and H.323, Mondopad Flex is compatible with legacy video conferencing and display hardware and software, including Skype for Business and many third-party room video conferencing systems.
Advanced wireless casting, including support for AirPlay, Chrome and Miracast, allows presenters to share content from their laptops, mobile phones and tablets without using cables or dongles. Mondopad Flex also offers the security features native to Windows 10 Pro.
InFocus Mondopad Flex is $7,999 and it’s here. Leave a Comment
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Nureva Ships HDL-300Nureva Inc is shipping the HDL300 audio conferencing system. At the core of the HDL300 system is Nureva’s breakthrough Microphone Mist technology, which places 8,192 virtual microphones throughout a meeting room to pick up sound from any location. Enabled by real-time hardware, the system uses sophisticated algorithms to simultaneously process sound from all virtual microphones to provide remote participants with a high quality listening experience. All participants are clearly heard regardless of where they are in the room or the direction they are facing. The HDL300 system was first shown at InfoComm 2016 when the product was still under development, and it was named Best New Audio Conferencing Product by rAVe Publications.The HDL300 audio conferencing system resolves the frustrating and persistent issue of poor audio pickup, especially in dynamic meetings where participants move around the room. The system’s custom audio processing unit is capable of handling 15,000 MIPS, which is much more powerful than conventional systems. This power is used to create a quality listening experience for remote participants by way of the virtual microphones, continuous self-calibration, simultaneous echo cancellation, position-based automatic gain control and sound masking. The HDL300 system is optimized for small to mid-sized meeting and collaboration spaces, and is designed to work with Skype for Business, Zoom, Blue Jeans, Cisco Spark, Cisco WebEx, GoToMeeting, Pexip Infinity Connect and other common UC&C applications.
Here are the specs. Leave a Comment
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InFocus Transforms Collaboration With ConX Ecosystem InFocus unveils its transformative ConX communication and collaboration ecosystem today, centered around the new ConX Cloud video conferencing service. ConX Cloud connects with ConX display hardware solutions ranging from Mondopad touch-enabled displays and ConX video phones to scalable ConX video conferencing walls supporting up to 96 displays, as well as ConX software and web apps for laptops, iOS and Android smartphones and tablets. The ConX system also supports H.323 and SIP industry standards, allowing businesses, schools and government agencies to connect to anyone using standards-based third-party devices.
With ConX, users can connect and collaborate with more ease and more flexibility than ever before. From small team meetings to large-scale, company-wide meetings of people and ideas, the ConX universe has everything needed to connect people and information. And unlike any other solution on the market, ConX delivers the freedom and flexibility for anyone to actively participate in a virtual meeting, no matter the device or operating system in front of them. The combination of ConX Cloud and ConX devices and software from InFocus provides an unparalleled, integrated collaboration experience, while built-in support for industry standards provides the freedom to connect with people using legacy systems and other video conferencing services both inside and outside their organization.
The new ConX Cloud was designed and built to enable powerful, reliable video conferencing and collaboration from anywhere. Instead of presenting one-way data during a meeting, ConX Cloud provides dual-stream data and video allowing everyone to see both faces and information at the same time, providing the closest experience to an in-person meeting. With ConX endpoints from InFocus, users on the video conference can present, annotate, whiteboard, create, edit, share, save and send information in real-time. ConX Cloud supports SIP, H.323 and Skype for business interoperability, so you can bring people and data together through a wide variety of endpoints and services on both InFocus and legacy third-party devices. Connectivity across communication platforms is essential and ConX Cloud delivers it at no extra cost.
ConX Cloud service includes support for InFocus Mondopad and a range of InFocus ConX endpoints including ConX Wall, ConX Exec, and ConX Phone, as well as audio (PSTN) dial-in, ConX mobile apps for iOS and Android, ConX apps for Windows and Mac OS, and ConX web apps. ConX Cloud also supports InFocus’ BrightCam technology for intelligent HD video enhancement, adaptively improving video conferencing image color and detail in a variety of ambient light conditions on selected InFocus devices.
ConX hardware endpoints integrate advanced video and information-sharing technologies into fully configurable and scalable solutions for conference rooms, huddle rooms and video walls.
One of the most versatile pieces of the ConX ecosystem is the InFocus Mondopad. This all-in-one touch-enabled system allows teams to connect and share any type of content with anyone in the room, as well as with attendees who are remote. Mondopad now supports the new ConX Whiteboard, enabling professionals in multiple locations to interact and share ideas on a Mondopad whiteboard, while simultaneously using ConX Cloud. Everyone can see the same whiteboard screen, and each participant can draw, write or insert text or images.
Offering the capabilities typically provided by multiple devices in traditional conference rooms, Mondopad is an enormous touch-enabled screen that combines an HD video conferencing system, an interactive whiteboard, a 1080p or 4K screen, audio conferencing, and a powerful PC. Users can control the system, present, annotate, and whiteboard using their fingers and an intuitive, easy to use graphical user interface. Documents can be saved to the Mondopad for future access, stored to the network, or emailed to anyone directly from the device. A built-in high-quality camera and speakers facilitate enterprise-grade video conferencing, making Mondopad the standalone collaboration system that connects people, devices and information easily, seamlessly and reliably right out of the box. Mondopad is available in 57-inch and 65-inch sizes and Mondopad Ultra, with 4K resolution and an even more robust PC, is available in 70-inch and 85-inch sizes.
For collaboration and conferencing with even more screen real estate, InFocus offers ConX Exec and ConX Wall. Both are video conferencing solutions that feature multi-screen configurations that can scale from two displays to 96 showing both shared data and video conferencing participants. ConX Wall and ConX Exec are ideal for those applications in which seeing the big picture means seeing a big picture. Using multiple ultra-narrow-bezel HD displays, users can customize these ConX solutions for any wall size ranging from that in an executive suite to the largest venue.
What sets ConX Wall and ConX Exec apart from a basic video wall is an integrated video conferencing multipoint control unit (MCU) server. The server enables users to instantly configure and change each input image to any number of the displays, allowing in-room participants to focus on whatever content they want at any given time, such as a data or video stream from a remote participant. This unique ability to create a user-defined layout and to have control from all kinds of devices makes ConX Wall and ConX Exec ideal for enterprise management, public services, education and training.
ConX Exec is available in pre-configured display, hardware and software solutions available in 2×2 or 3×2 configuration with 48.5-inch HD screens. ConX Wall is a fully-configurable solution that can be matched with third-party displays, accommodating up to 96 screens for enormous collaboration walls.
The ConX Phone from InFocus is a powerful desktop videophone with a 10.1-inch color HD screen, a 720p camera, and an immediately familiar user interface. The built-in wide-band speaker and high-dynamic-range microphone ensure clear hands-free conversations, or use your headset. Making an audio or video call with the ConX Phone is as easy as using a standard phone and you can import your existing contact lists and manage features from the web. ConX Phone users not only see and hear remote participants on any supported ConX device, but can also see shared presentations and whiteboards on the integrated screen.
In addition to the range of ConX hardware endpoints from InFocus, users can also participate in ConX video conferencing and collaboration from their own PCs, laptops, smartphones and tablets using ConX apps. These apps support both iOS and Android mobile devices. In addition, there are ConX apps for both Windows and Mac OS computers. There is also a ConX web app that works with browsers that support WebRTC, such as Google Chrome and Firefox. With universal support and compatibility for virtually every platform, the ConX system offers more ways to connect and collaborate than any other solution on the market.
ConX Cloud is both powerful and affordable, designed to make the power of collaboration available to more people and more institutions than ever before. It is the only service that is available at a single price without hidden fees. Support for standards and Skype for Business is built-in and included at no additional charge. The goal is maximum connectivity and flexibility, assuring the system is compatible with important standard protocols and future-proof for any changes that an enterprise may undertake in the future. ConX Cloud’s game changing price makes it possible for businesses, agencies, and schools to provide every office and employee with their own video conferencing and collaboration system.
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ClearOne Introduces Two New Expander Solutions for CONVERGE Pro 2 DSP Mixers ClearOne is introducing a duo of compact yet powerful interface expanders — the CONVERGE Pro 2 USB and the CONVERGE Pro 2 GPIO — that increase the number of ports available for conferencing connectivity and room control for all CONVERGE Pro 2 DS mixers.
The USB expander acts primarily as a USB audio interface, connecting a laptop directly to the room’s audio with familiar PC-based video conferencing applications, including ClearOne Spontania, Google Hangouts, Skype for Business, WebEx or any other cloud-based applications. It also can be used to share the DSP mixer resources across multiple rooms.
The GPIO Expander provides a dozen input and output pins to control in-room devices such as microphones, cameras, window coverings and lights. As many as three USB expanders and three GPIO expanders can be daisy-chained per CONVERGE Pro 2 mixer to further increase USB connectivity and room-control options.
The new CONVERGE Pro 2 Expanders are shipping at the end of August 2017. Here are all the details. Leave a Comment
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Prysm Adds Enterprise Collaboration Features Including Co-BrowsingPrysm, Inc announced today new functionality for its digital workplace platform. The new features include:
Co-browsing – allows all Prysm participants accessing content via an approved mobile device to view and interact with web content. Prysm is the first to offer web application co-browsing among teams, enabling all users to make edits while empowering the content owner to monitor permissions and even view content in a secure manner. Co-browsing brings web-based applications to Prysm workspaces via the mobile interface for the first time, further building out Prysm’s virtual meeting room offering in bringing meeting content to any device at any time by enhancing the collaboration experience for both in-room and remote participants.
Quick Start with video conference integration – enables employees to access Prysm’s digital workplace platform without logging in to provide an instant start to meetings. It brings together content and advanced video conferencing into a single experience, including rooms equipped with advanced video conferencing solutions that are underutilized due to their complexity and lack of interoperability. Quick Start integration with video conferencing is expected to be generally available in fall 2017. It will integrate with existing video conference codecs from Cisco, Polycom and Logitech, among others, as well as unified communications solutions like Skype for Business to maximize current technology investments and offer key improvements to the meeting experience. These improvements make many use cases possible, such as:
- A user can quickly place and control the basic call settings of a video conference call using the Prysm on-screen experience with no need for extra wires or hardware in the room.
- Participants can be alerted to an incoming call, with options to accept or decline to easily join an existing meeting.
- Users can share mobile device content or Prysm sketchboard content with call participants.
·Prysm’s new mobile user interface (UI) – makes the mobile experience of the Prysm digital workplace platform faster, simpler and more personalized. The new UI provides additional search and browsing capabilities to easily access and navigate through projects and preview workspace content. Prysm tools, including sticky notes and annotations, were also updated. In addition, the solution now provides other impactful experiences, such as notifying a user of other participants in a project space for quick meeting start and team interaction. Prysm also announced today an early preview of the Prysm API. Leave a Comment
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HARMAN Introduces Sonique Far Field Voice Input Technology for HomeAV and ProAV Applications HARMAN International, as you know, a subsidiary of Samsung, today announced a new Far Field Voice Input Technology, called Sonique. This technology is intended for the fast-growing market of devices in the Consumer Electronics, Enterprise, and Robotics spaces that utilize voice commands, rather than traditional physical inputs via buttons, keyboard inputs, or mouse clicks. Translation: Harman (with Samsung) will try and make Apple’s Siri, Amazon’s Alexa and Google’s Voice better.
HARMAN is saying the market for devices with voice input capability to exceed $7 billion by 2024 with the majority of the voice-controlled devices expected in several areas, including home hubs, conferencing, healthcare and robotics.
According to HARMAN, Sonique uses a customizable, high performance microphone array, a suite of voice algorithms to accurately capture voice commands, even in high ambient noise environments, and integration with popular natural voice engines, and low distortion speakers.
Sonique will initially be offered in three configurations for specific use-cases. The first configuration will be a two-mic solution. This robust configuration is intended primarily for consumer electronics applications, such as a home hub, which can be easily integrated into a music device, TV set-top box or an internet router. The two-mic configuration is designed for high quality voice inputs at distances up to 4 meters (12 feet).
The second Sonique configuration is a four-mic solution. This configuration is designed for premium home applications, enterprise applications, and robotics applications. The four-mic configuration is for voice inputs at distances up to 6 meters (18 feet).
The third configuration is a seven-mic solution. This configuration is designed for high performance applications, mostly for enterprise and robotics. Featuring a suite of high performance algorithms, the seven-mic solution is for voice inputs at distances up to 8 meters (24 feet) with high ambient noise.
Sonique will integrate with all natural voice engines that are available for public use. Amazon’s Alexa and Microsoft’s Cortana are available now. They expect to integrate with other natural voice engines, such as Baidu, Iflytech, Google Assistant, SoundHound, and Siri in the near future.
Here are complete details on HARMAN’s Monique. Leave a Comment
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Extron Ships Three New Control Processors with Network Isolation for Added SecurityExtron announced the immediate availability of several new IP Link Pro control processors, including the IPCP Pro 555, IPCP Pro 355 DR and the IPCP Pro 255. Each control processor in this lineup features advanced security standards and dual Gigabit Ethernet ports, which 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. All of these can be used with Extron LinkLicense, which further enhances the capabilities of Extron Pro Series control systems.
The IPCP Pro 555, IPCP Pro 355 DR and the IPCP Pro 255 can be configured using Global Configurator Plus or Global Configurator Professional software or programmed using Extron Global Scripter. For enterprise-wide applications, GlobalViewer Enterprise can provide centralized AV resource monitoring, management and control over a computer network.
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New Crestron DM XiO Director Is for Enterprise Provisioning and Management of AV-over-IP
Crestron will debut the DM XiO Director, an enterprise-grade network appliance that serves as a centralized “virtual switcher,” for configuration, control and management of large-scale DM NVX Series AV networks. DM NVX Series is the their AV-over-IP system for sending 4K60, 4:4:4, and HDR video over standard 1Gb Ethernet.
The DM XiO Director emulates the functionality of a traditional hardware-based DigitalMedia matrix switcher, routing 4K60 streaming AV signals throughout a room, building, or campus. Three models are offered which support 80 (DM-XIO-DIR-80), 160 (DM-XIO-DIR-160) or unlimited (DM-XIO-DIR-ENT) endpoint devices. DM XiO Director can handle even the largest corporate enterprise, university, governmental, military, medical, transportation, sports, entertainment, hospitality, gaming or retail application.
Crestron says the DM XiO Director automatically discovers each DM NVX endpoint on the network, and allows each one to be assigned to a “domain” using a simple UI. A domain is simply a logical grouping of endpoints that operate together as a single switching entity, allowing individual rooms and other subsystems to be arranged and controlled independently. The DM XiO Director effectively eliminates the need for physical switchers in every room, replacing them with the virtual equivalent running on the AV network.
The DM XiO Director provides a web-based user interface to facilitate system configuration, signal routing and diagnostics of the AV network. Each domain and endpoint can be designated with a common name.
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Key Digital Introduces Video Wall ProcessorThe new Key Digital KD-VW4x4PRO is designed to bring video wall capabilities to all displays and digital signage. This processor supports seamless switching and features eight different user-selectable video wall modes with many horizontal and vertical layouts. These modes include: four horizontal: 1×4 rotated, 1×4, 1×3 and two sets of 1×2; and three vertical: 4×1, 3×1, two sets of 2×1 and typical 2×2 setup.
The KD-VW4x4Pro supports seamless 4×4 matrix switching, and analog to digital conversion of incoming VGA with analog audio signals. Four HDMI/VGA inputs accept digital/analog video and audio from computers, media players, and other sources. With the eight onboard video wall processing modes, the four outputs can be configured to display video from a single input over a four-output video wall. Fitting into a wide variety of professional video installation and live event needs, this device is also ideal for retail, digital signage, conferencing applications, classrooms, home-theater and bar/restaurant needs.
Additionally the KD-VW4x4Pro has adjustments that can be made, such as bezel compensation, to fine-tune the video wall to fit different screen types. Device control is achieved through a couple of options including the front panel buttons, included wireless IR remote control or via software through RS232 and Ethernet.
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VuWall Debuts Personal Videowall Solution in New VuStationVuWall’s new VuStation is a KVM solution for “personal” video walls, that allows for multi-source control inside the operator’s personal working surface. It enables the operator to interact with multiple sources on a monitoring and control level from a single station with a single keyboard and mouse.
The collaborative VuStation interface supplies the operator with all critical controls and information on one screen set. The interface also allows the resizing of all windows across the complete input range, accessing multiple sources even if they are on segregated networks. Interfaces can be set up in any configuration with operator accessible templates and groups.
In addition to video walls, we see this as an interesting solution to manage social media in social media control rooms. This could be a bigger announcement than they even realize.
VuStation features include:
- Ability to control multiple windows within one or multiple surface(s)
- Ability to control all sources with one keyboard and mouse
- Customizable view of all windows on your desk
Think digital canvas on a desktop — see anything, anywhere in any configuration.
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Extron Ships New 4K Twisted Pair Extension Products for XTP Systems Extron is now shipping the XTP 4K twisted pair products. The XTP T USW 103 4K three input switcher is ideal for use beneath tables and within lecterns, while the XTP T HWP 101 4K transmitter provides discreet and elegant options for wall mount applications. They are HDCP 2.2 compliant, and enable extension of 4K video up to 330 feet (100 meters) over one, shielded CATx cable. These models join the other shipping XTP 4K twisted pair products to give even more options for bringing 4K resolutions into existing and new XTP Systems.
These new XTP products bring added convenience for signal transmission needs in a variety of environments. The multiple inputs of the XTP T USW 103 4K switcher support direct connection of HDMI, DisplayPort, VGA and audio sources, and it includes an HDMI input loop-through for a local monitor. Automatic switching between inputs with selectable prioritization simplifies operation in unmanaged locations. For installation in wall mount, floor box and furniture mount applications, the one‑gang form factor of the XTP T HWP 101 4K decorator-style wallplate transmitter provides the convenience of placing input connections precisely where they are needed. Set up and commissioning are easy with Extron XTP System Configuration Software.
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ClearOne’s VIEW Pro Multimedia Network AV Streaming Line Goes 4K ClearOne has introduced VIEW Pro 4K, a new line of 4K-capable, IP-based, multimedia streaming products. Consisting of the E110 4K Encoder and D110 4K Decoder, VIEW Pro 4K employs both H.264 lossless compression and H.265 high-efficiency video coding compression, supports 4K resolution at 60 fps, and provides integrators and end-users with a customizable, scalable and affordable 4K multimedia streaming solution.
The software is built in to the products and can be activated at any time, if and when needed, for a one-time, per-device fee. ClearOne’s HD VIEW Pro 4K products deliver 4:4:4, 24-bit color multimedia streaming and can accept a variety of video signal types, formats and resolutions and seamlessly distribute them over an existing IP network.
The new VIEW Pro E110 4K and D110 4K are shipping at the end of August 2017. Here are the details. Leave a Comment
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Wiremaid Intros the Cable-MGR Pro-10 Cable TrayVutec Corporation’s Wiremaid Products will be introducing the Cable-MGR Pro-10 Cable Tray at this year’s InfoComm. The Cable-MGR Pro-10 Cable Tray is a patented, one-tool system that doesn’t require any cutting or bending for installation. Mounting options are available for the ceiling, wall or floor and the whole systems has a powder coated finish in four standard colors, with custom color options available.
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Furman Adds Local IP Control to BlueBOLTFurman today announced the introduction of the BlueBOLT CV-2, a new interface enabling energy management features of the Furman F1500-UPS and select Panamax PRO products to be managed from the local network without requiring a cloud connection. The introduction was made at Furman-Gefen Booth #4955 at InfoComm 2017.
The BlueBOLT remote energy management cloud has long been enabling integrators to remotely monitor, reboot and power-cycle connected equipment. The CV-2 extends this functionality to devices on networks that do not have a cloud connection. The BlueBOLT CV-2 is designed to deliver locally controlled BlueBOLT functionality to the Furman F1500 Uninterruptible Power Supply and Voltage Regulator, as well as for the Panamax M4315-PRO, M4320-PRO and F1500-UPS. Cloud connection is only needed for set up, after which all control can be managed from the embedded web pages.
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Da-Lite Debuts New Borderless Screen at InfoCommThe new Da-Lite FullVision is a borderless design for use when designing a space that requires the AV to disappear and allow the features of the space and architecture to be at the forefront of the experience in the room. FullVision features a wraparound surface that adheres to the frame with Velcro to speed installation, making it easier to assemble than other products on the market. It’s always seamless and available in standard sizes up to 16 feet wide.
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For all you REGULAR readers of rAVe ProAV Edition out there, hopefully you enjoyed another opinion-packed issue!
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