Volume 16, Issue 4.2 — February 27, 2018
|
Industry News Audio Displays Projection Unified Collaborative Conferencing Staging & Live Events Control & Signal Processing
|
|
|
Experienceville, USA
By Mark Coxon rAVe Blogger
In case you haven’t been paying attention, there is a mass migration going on in AV. AV manufacturers and integrators have been leaving their traditional farms and silos. Heck, even our trade association has made the move.
Where are they all headed to? The fastest growing place in AV:
Experienceville, USA.
The move to experience has come on a few fronts.
Some manufacturers have started thinking of their product lines in terms of experiences. This makes a ton of sense, given that the end customers all think in these terms. As an example, a tech manager at a university is really concerned with the “learning experience” of the students. The professors’ interactions with technology and the way technology allows learning to be facilitated is really what is important. Categorizing products in terms of the “experiences” they affect seems to be a much more intuitive way for an end user to find the right products, as opposed to the traditional way of categorizing hardware only by their core functions like switching, routing, amplification, etc.
On another front, manufacturers have started expanding their lines to create more robust ecosystems. We see more and more manufacturers starting to head into previously uncharted territories over the last few years. Crestron is now making DSPs and speakers, QSC is making cameras, Biamp is making Video over IP devices and the list continues. The theory is that because one manufacturer has already designed and tested all the technology in the chain to work together, they have more control over the end result and the customer experience is enhanced.
Of course there is some disagreement as to whether this type of brand extension works and many times customers may feel a bit restricted in their choices in these scenarios so it is important to also recognize and honor the loyalty and familiarity they may have to other brands and solutions by continuing to support traditional multi-vendor scenarios as well.
Choice is also a large part of “experience.”
Integrators have also staked their claim in the expansion category to create larger geographic footprints and enhanced services. The cost of buying an AV system and the cost of owning one are two completely different dollar figures. Integrators have been increasing their footprints to offer more robust services across regions and even countries, creating an opportunity to greatly simplify and improve their clients’ service experiences as well.
Cross-Platform adoption of consumer-grade technologies has also been a stalwart of the move to experience. Manufacturers and integrators alike have started to design their hardware and systems to interact seamlessly with AirPlay, ChromeCast, MiraCast, Alexa, etc. in an effort to make interfacing with their systems more familiar to their end user clientele and therefore provide ease of use that ties greatly into the user experience.
Others are getting in on the move as well. It seems the move to Experienceville is a bit contagious. Not only are AV manufacturers and integrators pulling up stakes and hitting the road, but so are other companies that utilize AV products and services. Traditional hotel food service providers have purchased AV consulting firms and most recently, an owner of dozens of live event venues purchased an experiential AV content provider. All of these are indicative of how even other industries are bringing complimentary products and services together to offer better experiences to their customers.
As you can see, the move to experience is definitely happening. For many companies, it won’t be an easy one. Just like the Oregon Trail, we’ll have to see who makes it there in the end. The strategy used may make the difference as to who ends up at the heart of the city and who lives in a tent at the edge of town.
Welcome to Experienceville, USA. Population: Growing. Leave a Comment
Share Article
Back to Top |
Click above to learn more
|
|
If This Doesn’t Convince You to Come to the Almo E4, Nothing WillWith less than two weeks to go, Almo ProAV, in partnership with AVIXA, the Audiovisual and Integrated Experience Association, is putting the final touches on its first E4 AV Tour of the year, taking place on March 6 in Washington, D.C. The E4 experience includes all new sessions, including a new keynote and end note, along with the most new products ever revealed in the E4 exhibit hall.
“We are opening E4 D.C. with a new keynote address from industry consultant Gary Kayye who will provide an unbiased look at AV over IP, then the tour ends with a dynamic presentation from former NFL MVP quarterback and Super Bowl champion Joe Theismann who will share a game plan for success by drawing parallels between winning in football and in business,” explained Craigmyle. “In addition, one of the main reasons attendees come to E4 is to see the new products our exhibitors are demonstrating. This year we are bringing the largest assortment of new AV equipment we’ve ever had on the tour.”
The full lineup of business and technical sessions, many of which are worth AVIXA CTS Renewal Units (RUs), follow. Complete details can be found here:
- Keynote: An Unbiased Explanation of AV-over-IP (1.5 CTS RUs)
- Endnote: The Game Plan for Success
- HDBaseT Certification (1.5 CTS RUs)
- Behind-the-4K-Screen: A Backstage Tour
- OLED THE Curve of the Future (1.0 CTS RU)
- Conducting a Needs Analysis (1.0 CTS RU)
- Who is AVIXA?
- The Future of Digital Signage in Smart Connected Cities (1.0 CTS RU)
- Kayye’s Krystal Ball (1.0 CTS RU)
- The Silent AV Project Killer: Identifying Team Dysfunction and Pathways to a Cure (1.0 CTS RU)
- Digital Signage Design Principles (1.0 CTS RU)
- Experience Workshop: Introduction to Interactive Digital Signage (.5 CTS RU)
- Experience Workshop: A Revolution in Control System Programming (.5 CTS RU)
- Samsung Showcase: An exclusive interactive demo room that features a creative mix of indoor and outdoor displays
Some of the newest highlighted products on the E4 Washington, D.C. tour include:
- Introduced this Month. ATEN VE8950 Video over IP Transmitter delivers visually lossless 4K AV signals with low latency over long distance via a local network of standard Gigabit network switch
- Official Launch at E4 D.C. Barco F80 Projector, a fixed installation projector for museums, boardrooms and auditoriums with 3D capability that makes it great for dark theme park rides and interactive experiences
- Hands-On Exhibit Barco UniSee Platform, a redesigned LCD video wall that consists of UniSee View, UniSee Mount and UniSee Connect, which come together and provide a new way to look at large screen visualizationarco
- Launched at ISE Biamp next-generation Devio® collaboration platform with Beamtracking™ microphones
- Shown first at E4 D.C. NEC dvLED L012i display, with a resolution of 1860×1116 and a display face that is about the same as a 2×2 55-inch videowall.
- Official Launch at E4 D.C. NEC V754Q: Part of the new V Series UHD lineup with products in the 65-, 75-, 86- and 98-inch space and the same 24/7 run rate
- Special Bundle Peerless all-in-one kiosk with BrightSign player and Almo Content. The built-in digital signage module delivers flawless full HD 1080p60 single video decoding, HTML support, networked content playback and more
- Launched at ISE Vaddio DocCAM 20 HDBT In-Ceiling Document Camera for higher ed classrooms, board rooms or anywhere a razor-sharp overhead view is a must, and RoboSHOT IW HDBT Recessed PTZ Camera, an in-wall, recessed HD camera with integrated pan/tilt/zoom capabilities
Also NEW to the E4 AV Tour:
- Canon REALiS WUX7000Z laser projector combines long-lasting performance, high brightness along with a wide range of interchangeable lens options and advanced features in a compact design for higher education, corporate, marketing, HoW, training, museums and more
- Epson Pro L L1505UNL/L1755UNL large-venue 15K laser projectors combine laser light and 3LCD technology for powerful images that are ideal for events staging, auditoriums and sanctuaries
- LG 55EJ5D OLED wallpaper, razor-thin, lightweight displays with superior picture quality create an extraordinary customer experience
- LG 88-inch ultra-stretch 88BH7D display measures over seven feet long and two feet wide for a variety of installations from a stand-alone display to a video wall in landscape or portrait with touch screen for interactive functions
- NEC social wall with direct view LED video wall is designed for vibrant and colorful content visualization for auditoriums, reception areas, retail stores and more. It is being used to showcase the networking and socialization posts from exhibitors and attendees straight from the E4 show floor
- Samsung Flip WM55H, a portable, wheel-based stand for the Samsung Flip digital flipchart that allows a meeting to start anywhere
- Samsung QB65H-TR, a robust, all-in-one e-board that features enhanced touch technology and UHD picture quality
- Samsung and HARMAN Professional huddle space solution Using QMH targeted to small- and medium-sized collaboration spaces
- Sharp PN-L705H 4K AQUOS board interactive touchscreen brings stunning 4K Ultra-HD resolution, reproduces content accurately with incredibly precise color and detail and includes the “Pen-on-Paper” user experience
- Sharp PN-V701, a 70-inch LCD display can be used to create impressive video walls with fewer displays and less bezel interruption to complement any commercial or public space
- ViewSonic LS800WU, a new WUXGA standard throw laser phosphor projector with 5500 lumens and built-in HDBaseT receiver
- Zebrix Advanced Cloud Services and CMS software powered by Samsung SOC Tizen displays
Since 2009, the E4 program has offered AV professionals a full day of educational sessions worth AVIXA CTS Renewal Units (RUs) as well as exclusive access to the industry’s newest AV products and services. For more information, go here. E4 Washington, D.C. is on March 6 at the Sheraton Tysons Hotel from 7:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Register for E4 D.C. here. Leave a Comment
Share Article
Back to Top |
Click above to learn more
|
NSCA Announces 2018 Excellence in Business AwardsNSCA has announced the winners of the 2018 Excellence in Business awards in six categories:
- Business Performance: Infinity Sound, Grand Prairie, Tex.
- Customer Experience: JKL Technologies, Newbury Park, Calif.
- Differentiating Strategies: ET Group, Toronto, ON
- Employee Engagement: Avidex, Bellevue, Wash.
- Strategic Transformation: Tech Electronics, St. Louis, Mo.
- Talent Development: Bluewater Technologies, Southfield, Mich.
“As usual, this year’s submissions were very impressive,” says NSCA Executive Director Chuck Wilson. “Every year during this process, we learn about new strategies and initiatives that innovative companies in our industry are taking on in order to create new business and keep up with the changes headed our way. There are some great lessons to be learned from these leaders.”
This year’s Excellence in Business awards honor six systems integration firms in their efforts to adapt to the constantly changing industry:
Infinity Sound, winner in the Business Performance category, wanted to position its company to generate more sales through existing channels and markets. Its capture rate had remained the same over the last few years, even though the company was gaining more clients and leads. After conducting research on proposal wins and losses over a two-year period, Infinity Sound spoke directly with customers to learn more about buying habits and decisions. After creating new pricing strategies and examining value-added options, the company’s project backlog is now five times larger than the last few year-over-year sales. Monthly sales intakes have more than doubled.
JKL Technologies, winner in the Customer Experience category, expanded its AV services and wanted to help customers introduce new technologies to their end-users to ensure long-term success. Through a combination of training, communication, proactive assistance, near-immediate support, and highly accessible expertise, JKL Technologies has helped clients successfully launch new technology initiatives and increase business. The service has been so well received that technology adoption services have been requested even when JKL Technologies wasn’t the company to complete the project.
ET Group, winner in the Differentiating Strategies category, knew that the industry was shifting, and wanted to refocus its offerings to clients, expanding from technology to business advice. With a new approach that weaves together people, space, and technology, ET Group employees embed themselves into their clients’ organizations to become strategic advisors. To do this, the company adopted design thinking and participatory leadership approaches, moved to a self-managed structure composed of cross-functional teams servicing specific customer types, decentralized decision-making, and embraced a work-from-anywhere culture. As a result, ET Group has grown its revenue by 30 percent.
Avidex, winner in the Employee Engagement category, wanted to establish a positive experience not only for its customers, but for its employees as well. By creating an internal team dedicated to developing standard processes for all areas of operation across all Avidex branches, the company now has an established guideline for growth and expansion, and can ensure the best financial results possible.
Tech Electronics, winner in the Strategic Transformation category, recognized the need for change in order to continue its success. Instead of convincing them to stick with existing solutions that were familiar, the company wanted to be ready when customers asked about future technology. Just one example of success in this area for Tech Electronics has been the establishment of its own hosted voice solution, which allows clients to forgo upfront equipment purchases and bundle services and maintenance into one monthly fee. This solution will expand to support hosted access control and many other technologies.
Bluewater Technologies, winner in the Talent Development category, developed a new mentorship program to help employees successfully onboard and feel secure in their roles. This program has helped employees establish personal and professional development goals by being paired with someone to help them exceed their objectives. Through a mix of one-on-one mentoring, e-mentoring, reverse mentoring, group mentoring, and peer mentoring, mentors and mentees can select which method will work best for them. This mentoring program has empowered Bluewater to foster innovation and collaboration, which helps employees in all roles and at all age levels become exponentially more successful.
Award winners will be recognized at NSCA’s 20th annual Business & Leadership Conference, Feb. 28-March 2, 2018, in Irving, Tex. To attend the conference, or to learn more, go here. Leave a Comment
Share Article
Back to Top |
Click above to learn more
|
|
Extron Ships Architecturally Discreet Pendant SpeakersExtron is already shipping their SF 3PT, a pendant loudspeaker with a 3” full-range driver for speech reinforcement and music playback in high-ceiling and open-ceiling applications. Taking inspiration from modern pendant lighting, the SF 3PT offers an architecturally clean, unobtrusive design that complements the aesthetic of contemporary interiors. The SF 3PT is available in black or white and is paintable to fit in with any décor. Included with the SF 3PT is Extron’s exclusive PendantConnect speaker cable that combines the speaker wires and a steel safety cable within a single outer jacket, providing for a finished installation that is clean and secure. The UL listed SF 3PT offers both direct 8 ohm and 70/100 volt operation and is voiced similarly to the Extron SF 3CT LP for sonic consistency in mixed ceiling environments.
The SF 3PT pendant speaker comes with everything needed for a finished installation, including 20 feet (6.1 M) of PendantConnect speaker cable, an Extron exclusive hybrid design incorporating the speaker wires and a steel safety cable into a single outer jacket, allowing for a secure and seamless integration using only a single cable.
For more information on the SF 3PT speakers, go here. Leave a Comment
Share Article
Back to Top |
Click above to learn more
|
Anchor Will Launch Next Generation PA SystemAnchor Audio will launch a new generation of portable PA systems on March 1, 2018. This new generation of portable audio products promise to deliver clear, dependable audio with improved simplicity and reliability for customers. The most significant changes include the implementation of a new wireless platform, AnchorLink, operating in the 1.9 GHz frequency range and new Lithium Ion batteries for longer battery life and reduced product weight. Additional improvements and feature upgrade information for the Anchor Audio product line will be available upon release. AnchorLink will be available in the Bigfoot, Beacon, Liberty, Go Getter, MegaVox, MiniVox, Acclaim, AN-1000X+, AN-130+ and CouncilMAN. For more information about AnchorLink, go here.
Rechargeable Lithium Ion batteries will be available in the Bigfoot, Beacon, Liberty, Go Getter, MegaVox, and Acclaim. More details will be here. Leave a Comment
Share Article
Back to Top |
|
Samsung Intros The Wall Professional, a 3D LED Screen for Movie Theaters, New LCDs and Shows the Flip at ISEUsing MicroLED (think: Sony CrystalLED) technology, Samsung Electronics showed something at ISE called “The Wall Professional” — a modular, large-format indoor MicroLED display that can extend to hundreds of inches in size and is designed to replace projectors in movie theaters.
The Wall Professional’s modular design allows for customized configurations beyond or below its 146-inch size standard. Users can add or remove unlimited LED screens to and from The Wall Professional without impacting performance or presentation quality. The display’s self-emitting MicroLED pixel modules produce brilliant imagery free of color filters or backlighting and envelop viewers through elevated peak brightness (up to 1,600 nit) and a near infinite contrast ratio.
The Wall Professional builds upon its consumer counterpart with the integration of Samsung’s MagicInfo content management platform. Within MagicInfo, users can create, schedule and deploy content across a single Wall Professional display or Wall Professional display network from any location. The platform also provides complete display performance visibility for immediate error detection and troubleshooting.
In addition, Samsung’s cinema team showed a new display technology claiming to be the world’s first 3D Cinema LED screen. This enhanced display maintains consistent brightness to deliver subtitle text, images and even minor visual details with unprecedented accuracy, even while viewers wear 3D glasses. Unlike standard 3D cinemas with more limited visual reach, the Samsung 3D Cinema LED screen delivers these quality-enhancing benefits throughout the entire theater, ensuring that all movie-goers enjoy the same immersive viewing experience.
In fact, they claimed it’s already DCI (Digital Cinema Initiative) certified. This 3D film accommodation would mark a significant advancement upon the initial Samsung Cinema LED screen model. First introduced in March 2017, Samsung’s High Dynamic Range (HDR) Cinema LED Screen surpasses the capabilities of legacy screen-and-projector operations to deliver superior visual quality, technical performance and reliability for theaters and their guests.
Also at ISE, Samsung’s new versions of their QM Series (450nit brightness) and QB Series (350nit brightness) UHD 4K (3840×2160) displays — all integrated with their Optimal Color Mode.
On the standard LED front, Samsung’s fine pixel-pitch IF-D Series LED Signage with HDR picture and Scene Adaptive HDR technology was on display in both concave and convex formats.
Samsung also used ISE to formally introduce its Samsung Flip interactive digital flip chart (WM55H) to the European market at ISE 2018.
Samsung Commercial is here. Leave a Comment
Share Article
Back to Top |
Click above to learn more
|
|
Optoma Intros 10K Lumen Laser ProScene Projector for Large Venues Optoma today announced the ZU1050 WUXGA 10,000 lumens laser projector. The ZU1050 has seven interchangeable optical lens options, MultiColor laser (MCL) technology for a wider color gamut and Optoma’s DURACORE laser phosphor light source for virtually maintenance-free operation.
The Optoma ProScene ZU1050 is a WUXGA laser phosphor projector that’s designed for large venues is spec’d at 10,000 lumens, a 2,000,000:1 contrast ratio with Extreme Black. Its motorized lens shift, zoom and focus with 360-degree and portrait operation mode allows for installation nearly anywhere. Combined with a laser light source and IP6X-certified dust rating for its optical engine, the ZU1050 is a cost-efficient and low maintenance option that provides up to 20,000 hours of light source operation for large meeting rooms, auditoriums, museums, houses of worship and broadcast environment installations.
Optoma ProScene ZU1050 specs include:
- Resolution: 1920×1200 WUXGA
- Brightness: 10,000 ANSI lumens
- Light Source: Laser phosphor, providing up to 20,000 hours of virtually maintenance free operation
- Laser Type: MCL (red and blue laser)
- Optical engine: Airtight optical engine independently dust certified to IP6X
- Contrast Ratio: 2,000,000:1 with Extreme Black enabled; 2,000:1 full on/off
- Vertical and Horizontal Lens Shift: 50 percent vertical, 15 percent horizontal motorized lens shift, zoom and focus
- Edge blending and warping: with built-in with portrait and 360-degree operation mode
- Throw Ratio: 0.36:1 to 5.5:1, with seven interchangeable lens options, including the BX-CTADOME for dome applications
- Connectivity: a wide array, including HDMI, DVI-D, VGA, 3D sync in and 3D sync out, HDBaseT and 3G-SDI
The Optoma ProScene ZU1050 is $16,999 and it’s here. Leave a Comment
Share Article
Back to Top |
Click above to learn more
|
Epson Announces Projector Control Software to Manage Multiple Projectors SimultaneouslyEpson today announced the Epson Projector Professional Tool (EPPT), a software utility that helps users set up multiple Epson projectors and allows easy access to advanced features such as edge blending, geometric correction and auto image calibration. The software is free to download and is designed for use with Epson’s Pro L-Series large venue laser projectors.
The Epson Projector Professional Tool automatically finds and displays all projectors on the network and makes changes easy by allowing users to adjust focus and lens shift and control basic projector functions, such as turning power on and off or displaying a test image. In addition, the software offers a straight forward graphical interface for the installer right out of the box and allows the user to drag and drop individual projectors to change the image layout.
Key Software Features:
- Auto calibration and screen matching – to adjust the brightness and color of networked Pro L-Series projectors via their built-in cameras
- Intuitive operation and control – manage multiple networked projectors
- Save time – spend less time making adjustments via the remote control
- Easily access tools such as geometric correction, point correction and edge blending
- Simple setup – projectors in the same network are automatically found and displayed
- Compatible – works with Windows 7/8.1/10 devices and displays with WXGA or higher resolution; supports Epson Pro L1000-Series projectors and the Pro L25000U
- Free download – available via the Epson website
- Convenient – supports wired and wireless networks
Here are all the details on the software. Leave a Comment
Share Article
Back to Top |
NEC Display American Claims World’s Brightest RB Laser Projectors for Large Venues
NEC Display today claimed the world’s brightest red-blue (RB) laser projectors with the new PH Series – NEC PH3501QL and NEC PH2601QL. Both are native 4K (4096×2160) resolution.
The PH Series uses RB laser light source technology, is spec’d at 40,000 center lumens and 30,000 center lumens and the use of a red and blue laser light source which NEC says increases the color gamut of a laser phosphor projection system. And, like all laser projectors, it has a lifetime spec of at least 20,000 hours. Both models include Quad 3G SDI, two DisplayPort inputs, two HDMI inputs plus an optional slot for 4K/UHD OPS Slot-in PCs. It can be installed for landscape or portrait mode projection or 360 degree free tilt installation and it uses NEC’s cinema approved digital projection technology.
The PH Series features vertical +/- 50 percent and horizontal +/- 17 percent lens shift, a selection of wide zoom bayonet lenses and 4K60 4:4:4 up to 16-bit color and Picture in Picture or Picture by Picture display capabilities.
Here are all the specs on the NEC PH3501QL as well as the specs on the NEC PH2601QL.
Leave a Comment
Share Article
Back to Top |
Click above to learn more
|
Hitachi Expands Collegiate Series Projector Line with Three New ProjectorsToday, Hitachi America announced the expansion of its Collegiate Series of projectors with the addition of three new high-brightness, low-maintenance projectors — the CP-EU4501WN, CP-EW5001WN and CP-EX5001WN. With these additions, the Collegiate Series now offers twelve different projector models ranging from 3,500 to 5,800 lumens.
All three of the newest models in the series have two digital inputs (HDMI and one HDMI/MHL), use 3LCD projection technology and claim a contrast ratio of 16.000:1. They offer brightness levels ranging from 4,500 to 5,200 lumens and resolutions ranging from XGA (1024×768) to WUXGA (1920×1200). The expanded Collegiate Series comes with a 1.6x zoom lens, moderator control mode (for wireless projection), multi-projector capability and projector monitoring from a remote location.
Here are the detailed specs. Leave a Comment
Share Article
Back to Top |
|
Vivitek Adds New NovoCast to NovoConnect Family of Wireless Content ProductsA new era of presentation flexibility comes to smaller classrooms and teaching spaces thanks to Vivitek’s introduction of NovoCast. NovoCast brings wireless presenting for up to eight participants in a classroom.
With NovoCast, anyone in a classroom that’s using the system can connect to a projector or flat panel display and instantly share content and collaborate to the main screen wirelessly, without having to rely on the school network. NovoCast enables teachers and students to connect from tablets, phones or laptops using WiFi; so whether it’s a teacher delivering a lesson.
As NovoCast is a wireless presentation system designed and based on the principle of BYOD, anyone can connect and share content using the Windows, Mac, Android, iOS or Chromebook device.
It also has a teacher moderator feature. Once lessons are up and running, NovoCast’s moderator and content preview functionalities enable students to participate, while giving the teacher full control over the content that is displayed. This prevents any inappropriate material being displayed during the lesson, along with any unpleasant surprises for both teachers and students.
Here are all the tech specs. Leave a Comment
Share Article
Back to Top |
Peerless-AV Launches New HDS-WHDI100 PeerAir System Peerless-AV just launched its next generation of its PeerAir Wireless HD Multimedia System (HDS-WHDI100). Upgraded with a new metal case design, integrated with 802.11n technology (5.745GHz) and external directional antennas that are spec’d to penetrate multiple walls, floors, and ceilings to offer complete wireless coverage, the PeerAir HDS-WHDI100 is also an IR extender for the receiver, ensuring a clean aesthetic where the receiver can be stored out of sight. It can send HDMI, audio (LPCM, PCM Stereo) and control over 100 feet. It has two HDMI inputs so it can act as a switcher for 1080p, 1080i, 720p, 576p, 576i, 480p, 480i resolutions.
The new PeerAir is being marketed for homes, corporate settings, classrooms and rental and staging.
The new PeerAir is available now and here are all the tech specs. Leave a Comment
Share Article
Back to Top |
|
Ross Video Launches New Workflow Automation Production Solution Bundle for Smaller Productions Ross Video will be launching a new solution bundle, this week, that combines OverDrive Express with Ross Video’s Graphite integrated production vehicle; designed for smaller productions looking to cost-effectively improve production values.
Launched in 2017, Graphite is an integrated, all-in-one production powerhouse that combines a real Carbonite production switcher with XPression graphics, two channels of clip server and a brand new 28-channel RAVE audio engine. Unlike most all-in-one solutions, Graphite offers unrivalled reliability because the Carbonite switcher functions are built on a separate PCIe card and directly powered by the system, making it immune to any possible computer sub-system reboots, crashes or updates.
OverDrive is the broadcast industry’s preferred production automation solution and the 2016 launch of OverDrive Express – a more cost-effective yet totally scalable version – proved that workflow automation is not just a requirement for larger broadcasters and studios; even smaller productions can use the operational benefits that come from automation, with demonstrable improvements in consistency and quality.
Here are all the known details. Leave a Comment
Share Article
Back to Top |
Roland Ships V-60HD Multi-Format Video Switcher Roland Professional A/V is now shipping the V-60HD, a compact, integrated video switcher and audio mixer. Its feature set is designed for live event production as well as broadcast, recording and streaming. The V-60HD supports SDI camera inputs plus scaled HDMI inputs for data, computer, tablet and other video sources via a variety of video connections, plus a Program and independent AUX bus for confidence, downstage monitor or side screens. The V-60HD also offers advanced audio functionality including multi-channel embedded audio, XLR/TRS and RCA analog inputs and multi-channel embedded audio to two SDI outputs, plus comprehensive dynamics and auto-mixing.
Compact, portable and easy to operate, the V-60HD supports six video channels from a variety of inputs, including 3G-SDI, HDMI and RGB sources with scaling on HDMI and RGB inputs to support both video and VESA resolutions from 480i up to WUXGA. A de-interlacer enables 1080i and 1080p SDI video sources from multiple fixed-lens, PTZ or ENG-style cameras to be used simultaneously without the need for an external signal converter. The V-60HD also supports still image capture and import with two dedicated cross-points to have images ready to go and easy to switch to.
Program, Preview and AUX bus sources enable flexible outputs for multi-screen environments such as churches, conference centers, hotels and trade show facilities, supporting a confidence monitor, presenter notes, plus a main output for IMAG. The dedicated AUX bus may be assigned to any of the four discreet SDI or HDMI outputs providing seamless switching from the eight input channels, including four SDI, two HDMI or one RGB and two still images uploaded via the USB port.
A front-panel 3-inch LCD display allows quick access menu navigation and access to switcher parameters. A multiviewer supports Program and Preview feeds and up to eight video sources with audio meters and labels. A free software application, V-60HD RCS (Mac or PC), provides setup and control information for the unit through a network port. For fixed installations, the V-60HD can be remotely controlled through the LAN or RS232 port using touch panel or other programmable interface devices.
The LAN port also supports Roland’s new Smart Tally system for PC, iOS and Android devices, providing wireless tally to mobile devices from a Wi-Fi access point. In addition to enabling still image uploads, the USB port allows the user to save program files and memory settings plus software updates.
The V-60HD also features a 18-channel audio mixer with four TRS/XLR combo jacks with 48V phantom power, an RCA stereo pair, plus audio de-embed from the six video inputs. Audio processing capabilities include powerful dynamics and effects, such as a high-pass filter, gate, compressor/limiter, three-band EQ, delay and the ability to select audio-follows-video channels. The unit’s innovative discreet multi-channel audio embedding function allows users to select which audio source to embed separately to SDI outputs 1 and 2, for example, to fix audio issues or separate multi-language audio sources post event. An auto-mixing function automatically adjusts the audio level based on weighting, ensuring even levels for the room mix, recording and web streaming.
Here are the details. Leave a Comment
Share Article
Back to Top |
Complex Launches Ruggedized 24-Channel Small Diameter Fiber Optic Cables for Live Events and Sporting Event Signage Camplex today announced the availability of a new 24-channel, small-diameter tactical fiber cable series for harsh environments where size and weight are concerns.
Camplex 24-channel single-mode tactical fiber optic cable (HF-TS24) with a polyurethane jacket can be used for temporary deployment directly on the ground in all terrains. The cables meet outdoor tactical needs for broadcast and pro-audio applications that require outdoor-rated crush and impact resistance. The helically stranded core provides flexibility, deployment ruggedness and mechanical protection for the optical fibers. Fan-outs are protected by polyurethane furcation tubing.
Cables are available with LC, SC or ST connectors and in a variety of lengths. The cable series meets MIL-PRF-85045 specification and are also available on reels (HF-TR24) which feature storage for safely transporting the fan-outs.
All the detailed specs are here. Leave a Comment
Share Article
Back to Top |
|
Techlogix Networx Intros Backwards Compatible USB Over Fiber ExtenderTechLogix Networx is expanding its USB over fiber optic line card with the introduction of the TL-FO-USB3-02, the first extender set to be backwards and forwards compatible with USB 3.1, USB 2.0 and USB 1.1 signals.
The TL-FO-USB3-02 extends USB 3.1, 2.0 and 1.1 devices simultaneously up to 200 meters (650 feet) over duplex multimode fiber. Swappable SFP fiber modules allow integration with single mode fiber for longer distance applications.
Additionally, an integrated Ethernet channel provides 100Mbps of LAN pass-through from the transmitter to the receiver. For added versatility, the receiver also features four USB type A ports allowing four separate USB devices to be simultaneously connected. Each port receives 1.2A (6W) of power over USB.
TechLogix debuted the TL-FO-USB3-02 at ISE. More information is here. Leave a Comment
Share Article
Back to Top |
Gefen Ships Four New AV-over-IP Products Gefen, from Nortek Security & Control (NSC), today announced that it is now shipping its EXT-UHD-LANS-TX, EXT-UHD-LANS-RX, EXT-UHDKA-LANS-TX and EXT-UHDKA-LANS-RX models, all part of the new Gen 2.0 AV-over-IP product line.
The new EXT-UHDKA-LANS-TX (sender) and EXT-UHDKA-LANS-RX (receiver) solutions enhance AV extension and management for workstation environments where video and USB connectivity is required. In addition to basic KVM functionality, the new KM Emulation feature facilitates real-time simultaneous Keyboard and Mouse control of each source from all connected workstations, eliminating the inherent limitations of earlier systems.
The receivers features a built-in scaler to help optimize the image for a variety of displays and different viewing environments. A powerful video wall controller accommodates any screen configuration up to 16×16 and provides flexibility in sizing and manipulating live and signage content in demanding installations. The EXT-UHDKA-LANS-RX’s integrated USB hub with two USB 2.0 and two USB 1.1 ports accommodates touch panels, keyboard and mouse and a variety of supported devices. This feature, along with analog audio inputs and outputs, make these products perfect for use in collaborative and interactive installations. A built in 2-port Gigabit switch on each Receiver allows the daisy-chaining of additional Receivers or other IP-enabled devices. In applications, such as digital signage, where content is often replicated on multiple displays throughout the installation, the ability to cascade the Receivers removes the requirement for each cable to be run directly to the main network switch. This extends signal range far beyond the limits of a point-to-point video distribution system.
With support for HDMI and control (RS232 and IR), the EXT-UHD-LANS-TX (sender) and EXT-UHD-LANS-RX (receiver) are ideal for installations that only require HDMI and control connectivity. In education, hospitality, retail, and signage there will always be a need to manage just video, audio, and control without the USB capability and KVM features offered in the other Gefen 4K UHD AV over IP products.
These new products are capable of 4K 60 Hz 4:2:0 maximum input resolution, and maximum output resolution of 4K 30 Hz 4:4:4. When used with Gefen DVI-to-HDMI cables, they support the use of single-link DVI sources and displays up to 1080p Full HD and 1920×1200 (WUXGA). Each cable run from a Sender to a Receiver or from a Sender or Receiver to the network switch and can be up to 100 meters (330 feet). The Sender and Receiver can be used as extenders in a one-to-one system, or as nodes in a virtual matrix environment where any source can be routed to any or all displays, supporting up to 39,900 Senders and a combination of just over 65,000 Senders and Receivers.
All the tech specs are here. Leave a Comment
Share Article
Back to Top |
Roland Professional Ships the XS-62S Six-Channel Video Switcher and Audio Mixer Roland Professional is now shipping the XS-62S, an integrated six-channel video switcher and audio mixer with PTZ camera control capabilities in a space-saving design, optimized for installed or portable live event, recording, broadcast and streaming productions. The XS-62S delivers a powerful feature set in a compact 1RU form factor and can be operated by a single user from easy-to-use front panel controls or remotely from a Mac or PC or programmable interface.
The Roland XS-62S supports seamless six-channel switching between four SDI inputs, featuring de-interlacer along with scaled HDMI and RGB inputs from computer, tablet and other video sources, plus two still images stored in internal memory. Two SDI and two HDMI outputs may be assigned to program (PGM), preview (PVW) or auxiliary (AUX) buses. The multiview output displays all six video input sources, two still images and PGM and PVW outputs with audio meters. Three video switching modes are available, enabling the XS-62S to handle a wide range of applications, including presentations, performances and special events, corporate AV conferences and distance learning.
In PGM/PST Mode, the XS-62S operates as a traditional video switcher, enabling the grouping of multiple images on a single screen, with independent assignment to the AUX bus supporting confidence, downstage monitor or additional presentation screens. Downstream keyer (DSK), which supports both luminance (black/white) and chroma (blue/green) keying, plus PinP (picture-in-picture) functionality, enables compositing of titles, graphics and inset video. PinP may be selected in circle, heart or diamond shapes in addition to the typical square or rectangle.
Dissolve Mode offers video switching and composition with cross-dissolve to the PGM bus and is suitable for a system where the user directly operates the main unit in a meeting space or event. The separate AUX bus is also available in Dissolve Mode.
In Matrix Mode, the XS-62S allows individual video input signals to be assigned to three different destinations on three buses with fade-to-black seamless switching. This mode is effective for routing signals in applications using multiple screens while simultaneously mixing program audio and controlling PTZ remote cameras.
The XS-62S features an 18-channel audio mixer with four TRS jacks and an RCA stereo pair, plus audio de-embed from the six video inputs. Roland’s innovative discreet eight-channel analog audio embedding enables the operator to select which audio source to embed separately to SDI outputs 1 and 2, for example, to fix audio issues or separate multi-language audio sources when editing after an event.
In addition to the high-quality preamps, powerful on-board audio processing includes a high-pass filter, gate, compressor, three-band EQ and delay, plus the ability to select audio-follows-video channels. Processing may be controlled from the front panel screen menus or using Roland’s powerful Remote Control Software (RCS) for PC or Mac. Integrated auto-mixing automatically adjusts the audio inputs based on weighting, ensuring even levels for the room mix, recording and web streaming even from hard-to-manage sources as multi-microphone discussion panels.
The XS-62S is designed for direct control and intuitive operation by a single user in any AV application, with a dedicated menu screen and audio volume knobs easily accessible on the front panel. Programmable PTZ camera control eliminates the need for individual camera operators through one-touch recall of preset camera positions and angles, combined with the audio auto-mixer, allows the operator to focus on switching video. Professional broadcast-quality crosspoint buttons are back-lit with brightness control for use in bright daylight or dark performance spaces.
An RS-422 port provides PTZ control (VISCA) along with an RS232 connector for remote control from a touch panel or other programmable interface device. A USB port is included for still image uploads and for saving program files. Here are the details. Leave a Comment
Share Article
Back to Top |
Extron’s Compact Two-Channel Dante Audio Interface Ships Extron has announced the immediate availability of the new AXI 02 AT, a compact audio interface that extracts two channels from a Dante audio network, providing an easy way to connect devices that don’t offer Dante connectivity. It features two line level analog outputs on captive screw connectors with a mirrored two-channel S/PDIF output on a coaxial RCA connector. The AXI 02 AT interfaces with a Dante audio network over a standard local area network, and is powered through PoE. The AXI 02 AT includes a ZipClip 100 Mounting Kit and is compatible with Extron Rack Shelves and ZipClip 200 mounting solutions.
Dante enables audio system scalability over a local area network using standard Internet protocols. The family of Dante-enabled products from Extron work together as part of a complete networked audio system solution and integrate with other Dante-enabled products to create scalable system designs.
All the specs on the AXI 02 are here. Leave a Comment
Share Article
Back to Top |
|
For all you REGULAR readers of rAVe ProAV Edition out there, hopefully you enjoyed another opinion-packed issue!
For those of you NEW to rAVe, you just read how we are — we are 100 percent opinionated. We not only report the news and new product stories of the ProAV industry, but we stuff the articles full of our opinions. That may include (but is not limited to) whether or not the product is even worth looking at, challenging the manufacturers on their specifications, calling a marketing-spec bluff and suggesting ways integrators market their products better. But, one thing is for sure, we are NOT a trade publication that gets paid for running editorial or product stories. Traditional trade publications get paid to run product stories — that’s why you see what you see in most of the pubs out there. We are different: We run what we want to run and NO ONE is going to pay us to write anything good (or bad).
Don’t like us? Then go away — unsubscribe! Just use the link below.
To send us feedback, don’t reply to this newsletter. Instead, write directly to founder Gary at gary@ravepubs.com or Editor-in-Chief Sara Abrons at sara@ravepubs.com
Everything we publish is opt-in — we spam NO ONE! rAVe ProAV Edition is our flagship publication with what we believe is a reach of virtually everyone in the ProAV market. rAVe HomeAV Edition is co-published with CEDIA, covering the HomeAV market. We added rAVe Rental [and Staging] in November 2007, rAVe ED [Education] in May 2008 and then rAVe DS [Digital Signage] in January 2009. We added rAVe GHGav [Green, Healthcare & Government AV] in August 2010 and rAVe HOW [House of Worship] in July 2012. You can subscribe to any of those publication or see ALL our archives by going to: https://www.ravepubs.com
To read more about rAVe’s team and what we do, go to https://www.ravepubs.com Back to Top |
Copyright 2018 – rAVe [Publications] – All rights reserved – All rights reserved. For reprint policies, contact rAVe [Publications], 210 Old Barn Ln. – Chapel Hill, NC 27517 – (919) 969-7501. Email: Sara@rAVePubs.com
rAVe contains the opinions of the author only and does not necessarily reflect the opinions of other persons or companies or its sponsors. |
|
|
|