Volume 16, Issue 4.1 — February 21, 2018
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Industry News Control & Signal Processing Projection Unified Collaborative Conferencing Audio Displays Media Players, Recording & Distribution
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When No Really Means: I Don’t Know
By Dr. Frederick Ampel President & Principal, Technology Visions Analytics
What Does No Really Mean?
I don’t know which specific issues you encounter when dealing with a client who knows only one answer to every suggestion or idea you present — NO — but I do know we all have them.
There are so many reasons and possible scenarios that can and will generate a negative response ,it is impossible to examine them all in detail. But after spending a lifetime in this industry, I have reached some conclusions and possibly a few solutions to that discussion stopping word.
By definition the word no means “to indicates a negative response… to refuse, deny, or disagree with something.”
Pretty straightforward on the surface, but oh so incredibly complex underneath. In reality, within any project there are two primary types of no: (1) item or function specific and (2) the more onerous project decline negative.
We have all had the experience in one way or another of running into a specific item, component, brand or function that the client/end-user initially says no to for any number of reasons above and beyond the simple budgetary constraints problem. Those can usually be addressed, negotiated or resolved with careful discussion, offering alternative approaches and calm, logical and benefit focused presentations, not always but in a high percentage of cases.
Killing the Whole Project?
It is this, the much more debilitating project no that I want to address in this article.
Realistically, there is always a straightforward solution to this scenario — walk away. And sometimes that is really the only logical course to take. If you find there is just no common ground to walk on, no connection between you, your staff and the client’s needs, people or goals, then walk away. Let someone else find an answer — if there is one to be had. We all know that there are clients out there for whom no solution, no proposal, no suggestion will ever hit the mark. Nothing you do at this point will help to foster and create the relationships needed on any project.
As one of my favorite observers of the human condition, Mark Twain put it so well: “Fiction is obliged to stick to possibilities, the truth… isn’t.” If the client’s view is one based on their fictional belief in there always being an answer they will like, then no matter how well you state the truth, you will always lose the argument, so know when to fold your cards and look for another hand to play.
Pulling Back from the Edge of Failure
When the customer is unable to visualize or aggregate the information being offered, that is the core of the problem. It is a common mindset. You are getting a no or a negative response not because they don’t want to do the project but because you have not given them any way to frame a picture of the results you offer.
As stated by one of history’s great minds, Albert Einstein, in the quote below, the issue is one of catching the attention of both the visually oriented thinke, AND those whose thought process is more verbally focused — at the same time.
You have no way of knowing which of the two pathways into the comprehension centers of your clients will work best, so you have to focus your efforts on delivering your ideas and concepts to both kinds of minds.
If you recognize this going in, then you will be prepared and aware of the problem and ready to grab a hold of situation before that NO comes out.
Technospeak, Geekspeak and Gobbledygood
As purveyors of various forms of technology and technology-based solutions, we as an industry have a nasty tendency to frame presentations and conduct discussions using a barrage of words that we thoroughly understand and are comfortable with. After all, we use it every day, we speak it among ourselves and we conduct business with our suppliers and vendors in this specialized tongue.
BUT — as noted above — the people we are selling to and creating solutions for do not and will never be fluent in our jargon. We should not (as far too many of us do) expect them to adapt to us; we have to adapt to them.
Let me illustrate this with a short story about solving a complex AV problem without a single word of technospeek or a mind-numbing PowerPoint full of geekspeak, stunning 3D renderings or VR style CAD models of a solution.
A Three Question Sale
A few years ago, we were lucky enough to be able to work with a large worship space on the renovation of a two-decade old sound system as part of a major building renovation and overall facility upgrade. As it turned out, we were actually the third potential design firm they had contacted. We were not made aware of, nor did we ask about any of the previous proposals, but simply approached the project with a three-question memo in response to their request.
We asked them to define for us:
- What was the primary problem they perceived with the existing system?
- What was a general maximum budget framework they were comfortable with for a solution to that problem?
- What restrictions, aesthetic, architectural or similar issues existed did we have to take into consideration?
Their response was both immediate and positive. They asked us to sit down with them to discuss the questions and get “a better understanding of our needs and goals.” This was precisely what we had hoped for and it led to the development of a methodology we have used ever since:
- Ask the questions
- Define the goals
- Present a demonstration of the solution
After an initial meeting, we suggested that their entire 12-person committee spend an hour or so the following Saturday at another local worship space of similar size and dimensions. We told them that the system they would hear was essentially what we would be proposing for their space. We suggested that by experiencing the design directly themselves, without a long, complex and potentially off-putting technical presentation, they could reach their own conclusions as to its ability to solve the problem they felt they had.
What we offered was for them to go to that other space during the Saturday afternoon youth service and simply watch and listen. They found this idea worth the time and agreed.
When we got to the other location I asked them to focus on only one thing — listening!
After about an hour, we all gathered back at their location and I requested they consider one question: Could they clearly understand the entire spoken word message being presented or not?
Keeping It Simple and Focused
By keeping this whole process low key, straightforward and non-technical, our goal was to allow the group to see how their perceived problem was solved and experience the result for themselves, without any pressure or need for consideration of anything other than “did it work or not?”
No technospeak, no complex drawings (yet), no complexity — just problem-solution.
The result was that we got the project not because we could overwhelm them with our expertise or swamp them with a complex and impenetrable wall of information, but because we framed the process in a manner they were comfortable with, and one which provide them with the ability to easily reach their own conclusions on the solution. They could do this because all we asked for was a simple YES or NO.
Of course, there was a lot more to do, details to be developed, budgets to be analyzed, designs to be approved and the rest of the normal project processes. However, by allowing the customer to sell themselves on the proposed solution we created a relationship which did not offer a reason to say no.
I Could Explain It But…
Another variation on a quote from Einstein succinctly summarizes this whole process and why it is crucial to ensure that you don’t force your customers into a situation that creates the problem the quote frames.
The sinkhole we must avoid creating or falling into is one where we mandate that our customers understand or comprehend information well beyond their comfort zone or experience.
Whether it is a worship space, a university lecture hall, a convention center, or [fill in your own favorite complex project here], there are certain to be members of the decision team that cannot, could not or do not understand what you are saying.
If that disconnect develops, it can rapidly cripple any on-going progress or stop the whole project dead in its tracks. It is essential that we recognize both as an industry and as individual professionals and experts that this dilemma can and will exist on every project, every time, with at least some of the people involved.
Remember it only take one influencer to say no to make things difficult — or worse, to kill your chances at success.
Think Carefully About What You Say and How You Say It
As should be clear by now, it’s not necessarily the solution you created that got a no from the prospects — it was the way presented it that caused the no.
If you placed your clients in the position of feeling they were unable to understand what you were saying or how you were going to achieve the goal they had in mind, you failed to make it possible for them to say yes.
You are welcome to adapt our three questions initial approach listed above to your own style and process, but I would very strongly encourage you to sit back and evaluate how you create your proposals, what they contain and how you present them. Do this with these three additional questions in mind:
- Is the information in a clear non-technical format?
- Did you directly address the problem and provide a definitive solution?
- Can you summarize your proposal in 30 seconds or less without any technobabble?
If the answer to any of these questions is no, expect the answer to your proposal to be the same. Leave a Comment
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ISE Sets All-New Records – rAVe’s Coverage Is More Than All Other Publications Combined
Throughout 15 halls, visitors experienced a vibrant showcase of the latest AV and systems integration technologies, products and solutions as ISE confirmed its position as the international destination of choice for AV professionals. The number of exhibitors totalled 1,296, of which 294 were exhibiting at ISE for the first time. Combined, they filled 53,000sqm of exhibition floor space. Floor space already confirmed for ISE 2019 currently stands at 103 percent of the total booked for ISE 2018. The number of registered visitors by the end of the show had reached 80,923, an increase of 10.3 percent on the 2017 edition. Importantly, almost 20,000 visitors attended the last day of the show. On a distinctly positive note, over 30 percent of the total attendees were visiting ISE for the first time, a key benchmark for exhibitors in their quest to develop new sales leads. Highlights of the show included: an Opening Address from architect and inventor Carlo Ratti that explored the evolution of smart building and ‘Senseable Cities’, nine dedicated B2B conferences covering a wide range of AV topics from innovation and design to theme park ‘night-time spectaculars’, a Stand Awards competition, ‘Tech Tours’ to three leading AV installations including the Amsterdam ArenA and five days of professional development programming curated and delivered by AVIXA and CEDIA. ISE 2018 also saw the debut of the World Masters of Projection Mapping competition, a joint venture between the Amsterdam Light Festival, RAI Amsterdam and ISE. The competition saw leading video artists’ project video artworks onto the EYE Filmmuseum in the centre of the city. The competition culminated in Florian and Michael Quistrebert receiving the winner’s award for their artwork Stripes 5 on the last day of the show. Many exhibitors once again used the show as a launchpad for hundreds of new products, technologies and solutions. Technology and business trends included: a growth in IP and the crossover between broadcast and AV; commercially viable virtual, augmented and mixed reality technologies and solutions; the increase of devices for the smart home; the divergence of digital signage with both smart systems and ‘plug and play’ gaining traction; the increase in small pitch LED displays; 4K everywhere; IoT everywhere; the growth of projection mapping; networked audio and the continued progression of the collaboration market. For both AVIXA and CEDIA, the show provided a unique platform for the associations to reinforce recent initiatives and to cement their key role as providers of exemplary professional development programmes. ISE 2019 will be held at the RAI Amsterdam from 5-8 February 2019. Leave a Comment
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The Highly-Anticipated ISE In-Review Video Drops!Each year, we try and produce a fun (and different) way to see the shows we attend and cover with out rAVe NOW live show coverage team. We were at ISE in Amsterdam last week and we put together a video that we think you’ll not only love as much as we do, but it’ll also give you a behind-the-scenes look at how we are about to shoot 1300+ videos in only four days. And, if this video doesn’t convince you to attend ISE 2019 next year, nothing will!
And, if you want to watch any of the 1,400+ new product videos we shot, see the 2,000+ photos from the show floor, listen to any of the 50+ podcasts or read any of the 300 or so news stories we write to cover the show, check out our ISE 2018 Microsite here.
You can watch it here on our site.
Or, you can watch it on YouTube here. Leave a Comment
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RTI Acquires Miravue Product Line, Bolsters AV Distribution Offering With Video-Over-IP System RTI today announced that it has acquired the Miravue video-over-IP distribution solution from the company of the same name. Continuing its efforts to provide dealers with a comprehensive, end-to-end solution, RTI will offer the RTI Miravue VIP-1 video-over-IP system for powerful, scalable AV distribution over Ethernet, coax cable, and wireless networking.
The Miravue VIP-1 acts as a transmitter, receiver, network switch and wireless access point aimed at lowering AV distribution costs by reducing cabling and installation time by going AV-over-IP. The unit supports HDMI/HDCP 1.x and 2.x video sources with low latency. In addition, non-HDMI sources such as mobile devices, network video streams from IP cameras, and network-attached storage may be viewed without the need for additional equipment. The VIP-1’s built-in scaler matches the displays’ maximum resolution, while automatically providing stereo downmixing and lip-sync adjustment.
RTI is here. Leave a Comment
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Barco Launches AVaaS Service Aimed at Education and Meeting Room Control Markets Barco has become the first manufacturer to launch a AVaaS (AV as a service) model for integrators that involves real hardware that the client never has to purchase. Here at ISE today, Barco announced the launch of what it’s calling, in the press announcement, a SaaS (Software-as-a-Service) offering — something I predicted back last fall. Powered by its newly-minted Digital Engagement Platform, it is marketed as a “new way for Barco to provide great value for the customer.”
At first, the AVaaS model is only part of the Barco weConnect (higher-ed collaboration system) and Overture (meeting room control) platforms but I predict it will be rolled out in an even larger offering in 2019. The current offering through their Digital Engagement Platform provides a digital portal that allows partners and customers to manage their subscription and, even if the customer comes firstly to Barco via a referral or inquiry, Barco told me that they will still engage an integrator. They made it clear to me they have no plans to sell SaaS offerings directly without a partner.
With this service, Barco leverages digital approaches such as cloud technology and BYOD, offering customers the opportunity to benefit from flexible consumption. With the subscription-based model, customers only pay for the services they use, at a predictable cost. Barco partners also benefit from recurring revenue offers. For example, the weConnect hardware required for a system would be sent to the customer – without an upfront charge for the hardware itself — and would be covered via the monthly “seat license” or “room license” for usage of the AVaaS-based Digital Engagement Platform.
Barco’s software-based A/V control solution (Overture) and collaborative learning solution (weConnect) are the first products that will be offered in a subscription-based business model via the Digital Engagement Platform. Overture provides centralized management, monitoring and A/V control for meeting rooms. For its part, weConnect enables BYOD content-sharing and video collaboration in classrooms. These new solutions serve small and large organizations, likely fitting in well with the flexibility of the SaaS model. As an organization grows, new rooms can be easily introduced into the system.
In the first phase, starting in February 2018, weConnect and Overture will be available in a SaaS-model in the U.S. and Western Europe. More regions will follow later this year. Barco is here. weConnect is here. Overture is here. Leave a Comment
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InFocus Releases Jupiter StreamPoint Line of Streaming Encoders InFocus Corporation today announces its line of Jupiter StreamPoint streaming encoders. Available in two models, StreamPoint 4K and StreamPoint HD, the encoders enable users to upgrade nearly any display wall and collaborative visualization system with industry-leading technology for streaming and recording video. The encoders are designed for Jupiter by InFocus PixelNet 2.0, Catalyst, and Canvas installations.
StreamPoint provides high-density content distribution from up to four video and audio sources, enabling users to simultaneously stream, process, and record on all channels. The encoders can fit into an existing infrastructure without the need for additional equipment, supporting almost unlimited scalability, and can be placed on a workstation, desk, or rack. StreamPoint creates an end-to-end solution for content distribution and management when used with InFocus’ Jupiter line of PixelNet 2.0, Catalyst, or Canvas products.
The StreamPoint encoders integrate seamlessly with Jupiter by InFocus products and enable users to manage all content streams in an easy-to-use interface. PixelNet 2.0 users can leverage StreamPoint to discover and manage network bandwidth and quality, as well as define multiple stream parameters from any remote location over the network. StreamPoint encoders also support video and audio recording to a NAS or local drive with excellent quality and minimal network bandwidth, using H.264 and user-defined bit rates.
Here are all the specs. Leave a Comment
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Extron Intros Entry-Level Collaboration System With Wallplate TransmitterExtron just introduced the HC 403, marketed as an easy-to-use AV system for professional and educational spaces. The system features built-in control capabilities and connects with occupancy sensors to automate display power and source switching for an intuitive, effortless user experience. Created for professional integration, the HC 403 wallplate transmitter blends with surrounding décor and the HC 403 receiver can be discreetly mounted beneath a table or behind a display. HC 403 systems work seamlessly with GlobalViewer Enterprise, providing a networked AV system management solution to monitor and support all of your collaboration spaces throughout the organization.
The HC 403 wallplate transmitter and scaling receiver work together to extend video, audio, and power up to 230 feet over a single CATx cable for maximum performance and reliability. It features one HDMI input and one VGA input at the transmitter and one HDMI input at the receiver. Advanced Extron scaling technology in the receiver ensures excellent image quality with maximum detail and color accuracy. Ethernet connectivity facilitates management, monitoring, and control of AV devices over a standard network infrastructure, while built-in control functionality eliminates the need for additional equipment. Add an Extron ShareLink wireless collaboration gateway to support BYOD – Bring Your Own Device environments, where users can share content from a wide variety of personal mobile devices for effective collaboration.
Here are the details. Leave a Comment
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New Extron SME 211 Offers Streaming in a Compact Package Extron just introduced the SME 211, an H.264 streaming media encoder for distributing audio and video signals over IP networks. The SME 211 accepts an HDMI signal with embedded audio and an analog audio signal. Extron high performance scaling and flexible signal processing facilitate superior image quality for content from computers, cameras, and other HD sources. The SME 211 supports unicast and multicast streaming protocols, including RTMP for streaming directly to major Content Delivery Networks – CDNs or social media platforms such as FaceBook and YouTube. The SME 211 can stream at two different resolutions and bit rates concurrently supporting a total of up to six simultaneous streams with push and pull encoding. Built in audio mixing and DSP features enable enhanced audio processing without requiring external mixing and DSP equipment.
The SME 211 is for applications that require multiple simultaneous, independent streams, each with individual control of streaming protocol, bit rate, and stream resolutions. The dual encode functionality supports streaming at high resolution to an SMD-series decoder in an overflow room while concurrently streaming at a lower resolution for remote viewing applications. A range of streaming transport protocols and session management methods are supported. These capabilities provide flexibility to stream from the SME 211 to a variety of devices in different system configurations and network conditions.
Here are all the tech specs. Leave a Comment
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Kramer Debuts New 8×8 and 6×2 Matrix Switchers at ISE Kramer Electronics just launched the VS-88UT (8×8) and VS-622DT matrix switchers. Both are HDBaseT 2.0 based and support Power over Ethernet (PoE). The VS-622DT also includes the Kramer Maestro room automation software. VS-88UT is designed for boardrooms, hotels, multi-purpose divisible spaces, video conferencing applications, visitor centers and showrooms. VS-622DT is aimed at small to mid-sized meetings spaces.
The VS−88UT is a 4K@60Hz (4:2:0) 8 x 8 matrix presentation system that switches the video, embeds the audio and outputs the signal to both an HDMI and an HDBaseT 2.0 with USB extension and PoE on input and output ports. Audio support includes balanced stereo audio, unbalanced stereo audio and de−embedded audio sources that output to embedded audio, balanced stereo audio as well as a power amplified audio output. VS−88UT includes a master room controller that can operate over Ethernet (LAN) with control ports that include: one bidirectional RS−485, four RS−232, four IR, four GPI/O, and eight relays to control a wide variety of AV devices. It includes a KNET connector interface that enables access to the master controller from auxiliary room controllers such as control keypads. The unit can also provide power to auxiliary room controllers via the KNET connectors. VS−88UT includes an Ethernet gateway to control and manage remote I/O ports.
VS−62DT is a 6×2 4K@60Hz (4:2:0) HDMI/HDBaseT matrix switcher with HDMI and HDBaseT output transmitters for video and audio transmission. It supports resolutions of up to 4K@60Hz (4:2:0) and WUXGA. The matrix is a PoE provider that provides power over Ethernet to compatible PoE receivers.
Kramer is here. Leave a Comment
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Calibre Launches HQUltra4030 Seamless Scaler and SwitcherAt ISE 2018, Calibre UK (now owned by Coretronic) launched the HQUltra4030 seamless scaler-switcher. The new scaler-switcher is able to support up to 40 sources grouped into 23 discrete input channels, with four program outputs plus an independent confidence monitor output. The HQUltra4030 is spec’d to support 4K/UltraHD scaling up to 4K50/60 4:4:4 RGB formats (8-bit color). Calibre’s HQUltraFast technology claims typical input channel switching of 0.25 seconds in matrix switching with dissolve and fade transitions. The scaled image can be distributed across all four outputs while driving a programme surface area (whether for separate displays or a single videowall) up to true 8K/QuadUHD – 8192×4340.
The HQUltra4030 models provide all the functionality and performance of the base HQUltra4000 models, but more than doubles the number of scaling channels to 12 — four main, seven multi-layer PiPs/layers in total as well as a scalable background layer for each channel. The HQUltra4030S additionally provides eight 12G-SDI input channels and four 12G-SDI outputs, while the HQUltra4030FS supports SFP+ 12G-SDI optical I/O.
Standard input connectivity includes HDMI, DisplayPort, DVI, VGA, composite, RGB and H.264 HD streaming video, plus front panel HDMI-in and USB connectors.
More detailed performance specs are here. Leave a Comment
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Kramer Intros 4K Tx and Rx in DGKat 2.0Kramer Electronics launched DGKat 2.0 at ISE 2018. DGKat 2.0 is featured in the Kramer PT-871/872 transmitter and receiver pair and supports 4K HDR, HDMI 2.0 and HDCP 2.2 signals and two-way powering over twisted pair. This compact extension solution delivers video signals up to 40 meters (130 feet) over Kramer CAT copper cables at up to 4K@60Hz (4:4:4) at 8-bit color video resolution. They support deep color, x.v.Color, lip sync, HDMI uncompressed audio channels, Dolby TrueHD, DTS-HD, 2K, 4K and 3D. EDID signals are passed through from the source to the display.
Both the transmitter and receiver only need a single cable for both the signal and the power. PT-871/872 also boast Kramer Intelligent EDID Processing ensuring plug and play operation for the HDMI source and display systems with no need for additional configuration. Status LED indicators for HDMI and DGKat 2.0 ports facilitate easy local maintenance and troubleshooting. The pair is highly durable as the devices’ temperature remains low to withstand extreme weather conditions.
More detailed specs are here. Leave a Comment
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Epson Debuts Native 4K 12,000 Lumen and a Compact 20K Lumen WUXGA 3LCD ProjectorsDesigned for rental and staging, Epson announced a 12,000-lumen native 4K 3LCD laser projector, the Pro L12000Q. In addition, Epson also added the compact Pro L20000U to its large venue projector line — a 20,000-lumen WUXGA resolution 3LCD projector. Epson’s new 3LCD laser projectors were launched at ISE 2018 in Amsterdam.
Epson’s Pro L-Series laser projectors are designed for demanding environments, including rental and staging events, lecture halls and digital signage installations. The new Pro L12000Q and L20000U models share the same compact and lightweight chassis that makes them easy to integrate into existing infrastructure. The new projectors also feature support for HDR, 360-degree installation flexibility and a sealed light source and optical engine to protect from dust and smoke.
The Pro L12000Q and L20000U are compatible with Epson’s Pro L-Series lens family, including the new ultra short-throw ELPLX02 for large image projection from just a few feet away. The new Pro L-Series will be available Fall 2018, with pricing announced prior to launch.
The projectors are all here. Leave a Comment
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Sony Expands Laser Projector Line with Five New Models Sony is adding five new WUXGA resolution models to its family of laser light source projectors. Each is aimed at commercial mid-range installation applications in schools, including education, faith, corporate and museums.
The new models include the VPL-FHZ120L (12,000 lumens) for larger venues, the VPL-FHZ90L (9,000 lumens) for mid-sized classrooms, and the compact VPL-FHZ66 (6,100 lumens), VPL-FHZ61 (5,100 lumens) and VPL-FHZ58 (4,200 lumens). These new projectors grow Sony’s laser offerings to more than a dozen.
Each model uses Sony’s Z-Phosphor Laser with a blue laser as its light source complemented by a 3LCD optical system, to achieve the full spectrum of light and continuous, clear RGB color. The five new projectors feature auto color calibration, a function that enables users to maintain picture quality over time and Sony’s instant on/off, which can be used to begin presentations at full brightness, with almost no warm-up/cool down time.
The VPL-FHZ120L and VPL-FHZ90L use a newly-developed LCD panel with enhanced light resistance, and for the VPL-FHZ120L, an optical compensator to realize high contrast that delivers stable brightness and high-quality image with vibrant color reproduction.
The VPL-FHZ120L is ideal for auditoriums and conference halls requiring AV solutions to support live performances and ceremonies. The projector covers sRGB100 percent, making it suitable for applications requiring precise color reproduction such as in exhibitions and museums.
The VPL-FHZ90L is suitable for mid-sized classrooms or corporate meeting rooms, even those with challenging installation environments due to natural lighting or bright spaces with ambient lighting. This allows students and meeting attendees to easily take notes and review presentation materials while still clearly viewing the projected images.
Both models also benefit from a new range of features including industry-leading wide lens shift capabilities (Max. Vertical ±107%, Horizontal ±60%) and six lens pre-set positions for instant recall and enhanced usability. New HTML content display functions offer the ability to project customized content including logos, news, or advertisements via the network or a USB memory stick, even when the projector is on with no input signal.
The three new mid-range WUXGA models — VPL-FHZ66 (6,100 lumens), VPL-FHZ61 (5,100 lumens) and VPL-FHZ58 (4,200 lumens) — feature compact bodies designed for small to mid-sized rooms, while taking advantage of the full benefits of laser projection: long-lasting brightness, up to 20,000 hours of maintenance-free operation, fast easy set-up and no need to replace lamps.
All of Sony’s new models are compatible with the latest software packages such as Vision Exchange active learning solution, Display Power Management software and IP Remote App, enabling customers to create the next generation of AV solutions.
All five new models beginning in summer 2018. You can get more information here. Leave a Comment
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Epson Launches New PowerLite L-Series Laser Projectors Aimed at Education and Corporate Epson continues to drive the laser projection market with the introduction of the new PowerLite L-Series designed for corporate, education and houses of worship. The new Epson PowerLite L615U, L610U, L510U, L400U, L610W, L500W and L610 deliver use a laser light source, are spec’d at up to 6,000 lumens of color and white brightness, resolutions up to WUXGA and a new wireless technology to connect to multiple devices. Epson’s new PowerLite laser projectors debuted at ISE 2018 this week in Amsterdam.
The new PowerLite L-Series are also spec’d at maintenance-free operation with up to 20,000 hours of laser light source. Weighing between 17 and 19 pounds, PowerLite L-Series features a compact form factor for convenient portability or installation, and models equipped with wireless enterprise level security.
The new PowerLite laser projectors leverage Epson’s 3LCD technology to deliver up to 3x higher color brightness than competitive 1-chip DLP projector models3 and include features to improve the ease of installation and setup.
Epson’s laser technology features full 360-degree installation and projection at any angle. Additionally, new installations and replacing existing lamp projectors are much easier with Epson’s lens shift feature. The new PowerLite L-Series also supports advanced wired and wireless solutions, including HDMI and HDBaseT. To support BYOD classrooms, the projectors provide enhanced wireless display technology, allowing teachers to connect the projector to up to 50 Chromebooks, PCs and Mac computers and iOS and Android devices. Educators can also simultaneously display up to four screens with the Epson iProjection 4 wireless display solution. The high-end PowerLite L610U and L615U models offer wireless screen mirroring from a smartphone or streaming device with Miracast.
The PowerLite L-Series models Summary of features include:
- Solid-State Laser Light Source and Electrostatic Air Filter — Provide virtually maintenance-free operation up to 20,000 hours
- Versatile Connectivity and Control — Supports a full range of inputs, including HDBaseT, 3G-SDI, and is compatible with Crestron RoomView, AMX, Extron XTP, Control4 and Art-Net for easy integration
- Professional Installation Features — Full 360-degree installation flexibility, including Portrait Mode, Instant Off power, quieter performance and high contrast ratios
- Quick and Easy Setup — Get up and running in no time with easy image adjustments, convenient controls and models with built-in wireless.
Here are the more detailed specs. Leave a Comment
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New Eiki LED-Lit 3LCD EK-350U Projector Lasts 25K Hours Eiki International just debuted the EK-350U Meeting Room projector. This WUXGA resolution projector is spec’d at 4,500 ANSI Lumens brightness and uses a ColorSpark HLD LED lighting system that allows it to last over 25,000 hours.
With its HLD LED technology, the new EK-350U emits four times the light of current LED technology and includes rapid power on and off capability. With a 50,000:1 contrast ratio, corner keystone correction, 360-degree free orientation projection (both vertically and horizontally), lens shift and a curved correction and blending function, Eiki’s EK-350U can be used in digital signage, classrooms, meeting rooms and even rental applications because of its long light source life. The projector includes a 1.09 – 1.78: 1 throw with a manual zoom and focus lens.
Connectivity includes HDBaseT, HDMI, VGA, YPbPr and composite video.
Eiki’s new EK-350U lists for $4,995.00 and is already shipping. More information is here. Leave a Comment
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NEC Launches Native 4K UHD Laser Projector at ISE 2018 NEC Display Solutions Europe today debuted a 4K new projector as part of it’s PX Series, the NEC PX1005QL, at ISE 2018 in Amsterdam. The new laser projector is based on the latest NEC scaler chip that they are marketing as having a “pixel free” image. The projector heritage comes from NEC’s work as one of the three companies supplying the digital cinema world with projectors via the DCI. This projector is aimed at high-pixel-density installs like large digital canvas installs in meeting spaces, boardrooms, and from conferences and education establishments as well as unique bendable-light digital signage applications in retail or leisure areas. The new projector inputs include Quad 3G SDI, two DisplayPort and HDMI (2.1) inputs each, plus an optional slot for 4K/UHD Open Pluggable Specification (OPS) Slot-in PCs. And the PX1005QL projector is spec’d at 20,000 hours of laser life time as well as the ability to install in a 360-degree installation, unique geometric adjustment, Picture-in-Picture capability, and 3D support applications. The projector incorporates a wide zoom bayonet lens portfolio as well as support for third party lenses. The new NEC PX1005QL estimated availability will be in June 2018. Here are more detailed specs. Leave a Comment
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Avocor Joins the Zoom Rooms for Touch Program Avocor announced at ISE that it’s joined Zoom Video Communications to add an option to Zoom Rooms via the Zoom Rooms for Touch program. As you likely know, Zoom Rooms features wireless content sharing, up to 4K video and audio conferencing with up to 500 interactive video participants while integrating with most calendaring systems. Zoom Rooms for Touch is a mode of Zoom Rooms software that runs on large touch displays. Because video conferencing involves both local and remote participants, adding an Avocor display would enable collaboration board functionality to be added.
Avocor will provide bundles with Zoom’s software pre-installed in various sizes, performance and pricing options. More details are here. Leave a Comment
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Kramer Updates Maestro to V1.5 Kramer Electronics announced the release of Kramer Maestro V1.5 at ISE 2018. The Maestro room automation software is a pre-configured meeting room environment that does not require any programming.
Kramer Maestro enables a series of actions (think macros) to occur when a specific condition or trigger is met. Maestro V1.5 has added a more extensive range of triggers including scheduling, input/output connectivity, routing and pressing device buttons.
The actions Maestro can perform are virtually endless due to its dynamic database of device drivers that enable controlling any AV device or room element, from switchers to air conditioners. Now supporting additional I/O ports, Maestro enables automated control over RS232, Ethernet, GPIO, relay and IR.
Maestro is offered as an add-on to some Kramer products and is part of Kramer’s enterprise management platform, Kramer Network 2.0. This enables users to manage multiple rooms from one central location. Here are more details on Maestro. Leave a Comment
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New Dynacord IPX Series Power Amplifiers with OMNEO Debuts Dynacord just launched their IPX series multi-channel power amplifiers incorporating the OMNEO IP networking architecture The IPX series is comprised of three four-channel models and one eight-channel model, offering a power density of 5 kW, 10 kW and even 20 kW from a single amplifier with all channels driven. The IPX series amplifiers is designed for high-end fixed install venues, from concert halls, art centers, theaters and houses of worship to distributed sound systems in stadiums and entertainment centers.
IPX series offers high flexibility for a variety of installation scenarios and use Dynacord’s patented VLD (Variable Load Drive) technology. VLD technology (IPX5:4 and IPX10:8) allows the available output power of 1,250 watts per channel to be used at either 4 or 8 ohms, or via 70V or 100V lines in direct drive mode.
The integrated OMNEO interface with a primary and secondary port allows the flawless use of eight channels from a Dante audio network, while remote and supervision parameters run on OCA protocol (AES70), open for third-party integration. Redundancy options include glitch-free and RSTP (Rapid Spanning Tree Protocol) to suit individual requirements and existing infrastructure.
The new Eco Rail technology developed by Dynacord is spec’d to reduce overall power consumption up to 50 percent, both protecting the environment and significantly lowering the total cost of ownership.
The IPX series offers advanced 96 kHz high-resolution digital signal processing, internal analog-to-digital conversion, and a high-end level signal-to-noise ratio. The three DSP blocks are split into user, array and speaker processing controls, each featuring a wide range of equalization, delay, level options and even asymmetric filters to adapt to almost any application. Complete remote control and supervision is available via the IRIS-Net software and allows the IPX series to be integrated into both existing and new installations.
Models:
- IPX 5:4 (4 x 1,250 W @ 4 Ω)
- IPX 10:8 (8 x 1,250 W @ 4 Ω)
- IPX 10:4 (4 x 2,500 W @ 4 Ω)
- IPX 20:4 (4 x 5,000 W @ 4 Ω)
More information is here. Leave a Comment
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Bose Professional Ships Panaray MSA12X Modular Steerable Array Loudspeaker Bose Professional is now shipping its Panaray MSA12X modular steerable array loudspeaker. The self-powered Panaray MSA12X features a slim, unobtrusive acoustic design with 12 full-range 2.25-inch transducers in a columnar array configuration, to provide consistent audio levels with outstanding vocal intelligibility and full-range music reinforcement in acoustically challenging spaces.
The MSA12X includes 12 internal power amplifiers (50 watts per channel, total 600-watt rated power) and on-board DSP to allow digital control and beam steering of the array’s vertical coverage pattern. The proprietary Articulated ArrayTM configuration allows wide, 160-degree horizontal coverage. Independent level and EQ control is supported for two separate beams per array and on-board memory stores up to 10 user-selectable presets. The MSA12X features both Dante network connectivity and a line-level analog input.
The modular design allows up to three MSA12X units to be vertically arrayed to increase coverage distance and low-frequency pattern control. The slim, low-profile elegant enclosure mounts close to surfaces, blending in with the visual aesthetic of a space and its digital control eliminates protruding pitch brackets. An integrated mounting bracket allows up to 90-degrees of horizontal pivot away from surfaces.
The release of Bose Modeler software (version 6.10) features a new array placement function for the Panaray MSA12X, allowing designers to visualize and adjust location, size, beam type and steering patterns required for the installation space. Configuration data from Modeler is routed through ControlSpace Designer software for network upload to MSA12X modules. Designer also performs network management and diagnosis of MSA12X modules and offers steer/spread control for basic installations.
All the details are here. Leave a Comment
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Leyard and Planar Expand Leyard DirectLight LED Video Wall System LineAt Integrated Systems Europe, Leyard and Planar announced they are expanding its Leyard DirectLight LED Video Wall System product line to include the smallest fine pitch LED video wall display in the industry: a pixel pitch of just 0.7 millimeters. The is significant as the so-called pixel-pitch of an LCD monitor would be approximately the equivalent of .67mm — so this is nearly the identical resolution of a monitor in a meeting room. The expanded line, which also includes a new 2.5 millimeter pixel pitch option, will be showcased at ISE 2018, along with several industry-leading LED solutions.
The Leyard DirectLight LED Video Wall System is a family of seamless, fine pitch LED video wall displays that allow for wall-mounted, front service installations in indoor environments and incorporates the Leyard DriveSense technology.
The Leyard DirectLight 0.7 millimeter display is, so far, the industry’s smallest pixel pitch LED video wall display, providing high resolution images at the closest viewing distance. The Leyard DirectLight 0.7 allows for 4K and 8K resolution video walls in smaller spaces, matching the pixel density seen in traditional control room video walls but with a completely seamless and uniform image. And with the addition of a 2.5 millimeter model, customers now have a wide range of options from which to build high resolution LED video walls tailored to the resolution requirements of almost any indoor environment.
More information about DirectLight is here. Leave a Comment
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Matrox Unveils Monarch LCS Radar Centralized Monitoring Application at ISE 2018 Matrox Video today announced Matrox Monarch LCS Radar, a centralized monitoring application that provides a streamlined overview of multiple Monarch LCS lecture capture appliances. The easy-to-use web application allows IT administrators to monitor the status, health and activity of all encoders from a single dashboard. Overseeing the critical functions of every single encoder simplifies the maintenance and upkeep of the Monarch LCS devices, ensuring smooth day-to-day operations, whether for installations of one or more departments or deployments spread across multiple campuses.
Accessible via any web-browser-enabled device on the same network environment, Monarch LCS Radar features a color-coded dashboard for simple, at-a-glance monitoring. Administrators can easily identify anomalies, while also allowing the user to access the current status of video and audio inputs, schedules, events and production modes for individual Monarch LCS appliances. An integrated pane provides a confidence preview of audio and video inputs before or during encoding. Administrators can also automate email notifications should a problem occur. In larger installations where many appliances are deployed across the network — such as dentistry, business and medicine departments — administrators can categorize units into distinct groups for streamlined management of one or more groupings. To access a particular Monarch LCS unit, administrators can always launch the Monarch Command Center web user interface (UI) to adjust settings, initiate ad-hoc recordings and more.
The Matrox Monarch LCS Radar is here. Leave a Comment
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