Volume 2, Issue 5 — May 25, 2016
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Editorials Editorials Editorials
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Saltwater Kills!
By Tony Sprando Commercial AV Designer
Saltwater kills. These are two words that should never be in the same sentence when you are trying to get your wireless microphones to work. What do Saltwater and Radio Frequencies (RF) have in common? Answer: Nothing, really.
But, I have a scenario for you that may help you make a connection. Imagine you are setting up AV in a 16,000 square foot convention hall. You walk into the room with a wireless microphone and it works perfectly. Then, you fill the room with 100 police officers who are carrying radios and cell phones. Why would the microphone cut out?
What do you think the answer is?
- The radios interfere
- The police officers
- The cell phones
- All of the above
The answer is the police officers. Their bodies are 50-70% water, combined with salt. This means that human bodies are insulators also known as, “a substance that does not readily allow the passage of (fill in the blank).” In this case, more policemen in the room mean more insulators. Each police officer is limiting the passage of the RF signal which the wireless transmitter needs to reach the receiver. Sometimes this is in the form of “cutting-out” all together (loss of signal) or a distorted “robotic voice” comes through the speakers.
This volume control figure is a good example of what happens when you introduce an insulator into a flow of RF signal. If you lower the volume, the salt water increases, which decreases the flow of RF. But as the volume control goes up to a higher number, the RF flows more freely.
The question now is, “How do you overcome this?” The most common response to this example is to add external antennas around the room, but there is more to consider here. I will layout the steps for you next.
But first, a quick Myth Buster – The primary goal of getting better RF reception is to get as much 12v power to a group of active antennas as possible. If you can light up the powered antenna light then you are good to go and you’ll have all the coverage you’ll need to compensate for a room full of people. This visually would look right but it’s just not true.
Instead, here are the steps to install a Diversity Wireless Microphone Set-up in a meeting room, when external antennas are required.
- Run the right wire. There are two methods.
- RG8 Coax can safely go 150′ with acceptable loss.
- Fiber Optic can go thousands of feet.
- Use Passive Antennas and place them where they look aesthetically pleasing. But try to keep the Antenna A at least five feet from Antenna B. The garbage in/out rule applies here. If you don’t put in the right wire, adding active antennas only picks up more garbage down the line, which in most cases makes a problem worse.
- Add an In-line Amplifier. If you get yourself in a position to retrofit an existing system, install these as close to the antenna location as possible.
Remember: The plan is to pick up the strongest, cleanest signal via the Antennas so keep them in the room and visible.
For more information about wireless microphone distribution, check out this informative blog my friends at RF Venue have put together.
Helping you keep your signal clean,
Tony, the AV guy
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Samsung Mirror Displays and Exercise Displays
By Scott Tiner rAVe Columnist
As I traveled around South Korea in March, digital signage was everywhere, much like it is in any large city. I saw a couple examples of it in places that I have not experienced them in the United States. In one restaurant we were in, each table that was on a wall had a digital sign mounted on the wall. It was, obviously, in Korean so I was not completely sure what I was looking at. It appeared to be some type of Korean soap opera that was playing. However, the commercials were targeted to the customer in the restaurant. That is, they advertised a specific type of beer the restaurant was selling along with images of meals that could be ordered.
As I mentioned last month though, some of the coolest things I was able to experience was at Samsung D’Light. In addition to the menu signs that I wrote about last month, two other things really stuck out for me.
The first was the digital signage that centered around exercise. They had a stationary bicycle setup on the showroom floor. The display in front of you allowed you to choose where you were riding your bike. Along with being able to look at something other than a wall, the bike interacted with what you were watching. If you were going uphill you needed to shift gears and pedal harder. If you were going downhill you could coast. Personally, I am not a fan of biking at all. I enjoy running and have long thought about how interesting it would be if you could have such technology for the treadmill. I bore myself to death when I try and run on the treadmill in the winter. However, if I were able to say, jog around Seoul, or Paris or New York’s Central Park virtually, I may find it even more interesting. If you wore a Samsung smartwatch the display would also show some of your health metrics, such as heart rate.
The second thing that struck me was Samsung’s mirror display. This was particularly interesting to me because I was not even aware of what I was looking at initially. I genuinely thought I was looking at a mirror. However, as I looked more carefully I realized that it was actually a display. This technology has an incredible amount of potential. In a clothing store it allows you to look at yourself, like you would in a regular mirror, but also provides you with other information. It could, for example, provide you with a total cost of the clothing that you are wearing. It could, read the colors of the clothing you like and make suggestions for other things in the store. Perhaps if it was a blue suit you were trying on, you could interact with the touch display and have it show you what that suit would look like as a pinstripe. It could then even tell you if that pinstripe suit is available in the size that you are currently trying on. Do you like that pin stripe suit? How about you press a button on the display and one of the customer service people in the store bring you the pin stripe suit to try on?
When I look at new technology I try to look beyond the coolness factor. Yes, this usually takes a few minutes, I admit, I love the coolness factor. But, to make sense for a commercial enterprise the technology needs to provide value to both the customer and the merchant. In both of these cases the value is provided. In the exercise bike example it provides customers (likely at a paid gym) to have more dedication to exercising because they are more interested. This provides value for the gym by bringing in more customers and retaining those customers. The digital mirror display provides a customer value because it makes their shopping experience more interactive and potentially provides them with outfits and designs they may not have thought of themselves. Essentially, it could provide a customer with a virtual fashion assistant. It helps the merchant, because they are able to drive a customer to specific items they want to sell. In the example of the pin stripe suit, the merchant would be able to have the option of NOT showing that pin stripe suit if it already knew one was not in stock. Rather, it could show a suit that IS in stock and could be sold that day. Providing value for both the retailer and the customer is a winning combination.Leave a Comment
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AV/IT? IT/AV? Just Where Are We These Days?
By Corey Moss rAVe Blogger
As I ponder each day’s occurrences in the audio visual industry, the one thing that has come to mind lately with all of the articles and blogs I read, as well as podcasts that I listen to, is whether the industry really has an understanding of where it actually is in terms of that so-called convergence. AV/IT/ IT/AV? None of the above?
Here is an AMX AV/IT integration video from 2012.
I wrote this blog back in December 2013, AV/IT — An Aerial View Assessment, in which I pointed to a LinkedIn discussion thread concerning the state of communications in the AV industry that eventually turned into a skirmish between those who drove the importance of AV in projects vs. others who talked about IT as the be all end all.
I decided to side with those who were defending the AV turf, even though I had worked in both AV and IT in the past although as stated, once discussion had become AV vs. IT, I gravitated toward the side of IT (with AV still in mind), as I saw the market approach to be trending at that time toward IT technologies and innovations. I also spoke about likely being the only AV person present at a Government IT conference (when I had my company DC Smart AV/IT) which had recently taken place in Washington, DC – a huge hub for IT-related conferences.
In the blog I also referenced the Registered Communications Distribution Designer (RCDD) credential, awarded to those Information and communications technology (ICT) industry professionals who have demonstrated knowledge in the design, implementation, integration and project management of telecommunications and data communications technology and related infrastructure. I talked about how AV integrators should look into Bicsi membership, one that I had at the time. My question is — since then, just how many have?
Now, over two years later, the concept of the AV/IT convergence has gravitated towards more of an IT/AV perspective and in certain respects an AV as subset of IT. In my blog con·ver·gence — Part 2: Going Way Beyond the Talk from April 2015, I referenced a statement by InfoComm International executive director and CEO Dave Labuskes:
“We are well past the time where we should be talking about convergence and AV/IT and acknowledge the fact that AV is a specialty that lives within the information technology and IT communications community…. AV is a specialty that focuses on people and the experience, so you can have the Internet of Things and the Internet of Everything, AV is still about bringing the message to people and that requires specialized knowledge and specialized expertise.”
I went on to say that it appears AV no longer “simply” merges with IT, in certain circumstances it resides within information technology, where knowledge in certain realms of IT becomes highly beneficial to a company’s solutions and even organizational approach. Thus, the “so-called” convergence in truth appears to be a full merging (or say even integration as detailed in the AMX video) of AV and IT which benefits overall industry approaches in communications, collaboration and then some.
In doing some research, I came upon this – IT@Cornell AV Design Consulting which is supported by Cornell University IT (CIT): Services and Support. The description:
AV Design Consulting (formerly Classroom Technology Consulting) is responsible for leading and supporting activities that integrate the use of audio-visual technologies in Cornell’s meeting, learning, and research facilities.
This includes:
Learning and Meeting Space Design: Get advice on technology integration in a new building or room renovation to enhance learning and/or conduct video conferencing. Learn about design guidelines and best practices.
Technology Direction: Learn about new products and technologies being adopted in classrooms, research facilities, and conference rooms.
They also provide options for collaboration:
- Video and Web Conferencing
- Video (Web) streaming
- Digital signage systems
- Video distribution (Send or receive high quality audio/video to or from a facility)
And General AV Design Guidelines under AV Standards.
Here as a matter of fact is IT/AV representation in a Leviton Network Solutions brochure Systems Enterprise-grade infrastructure for high-quality audio and video.
We as an industry must be aware that IT, in terms of the CIO and IT manager in the enterprise and higher education, is fast becoming the bearer of responsibility toward determining, defining and even disseminating information concerning AV along with IT specifications for the organization or institution. Whether looked at as AV/IT or IT/AV now, the audio visual industry has certainly come to that crossroads where it needs to once and for all be as fully defined as possible. Or perhaps just viewed as a case by case integrated approach.
So with all of this being said:
- Is it still AV/IT?
- Is it now IT/AV?
- Has AV become a full subset of IT?
- Should it be approached as a case by case integrated approach?
We take on this topic in the next AV Power Up Episode 53 — let’s see how your answers match our guests. I’ll also be exploring this topic further prior to, as well as at InfoComm 2016.
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SMART Technologies Unveils Enhancements to SMART kapp iQ in Education SMART Technologies announced today that they have updated their SMART kapp product family, SMART kapp iQ. The new SMART kapp iQ interactive flat panel is specifically designed to deliver an all-in-one classroom solution that provides educators with the flexibility to deliver lessons across a range of learning and instructional styles, including whole-class, small group and individual instruction.
SMART kapp iQ now offers educators simple, one-touch access to a full range of classroom applications, promising a fully integrated experience with student devices. Because all software is built right into the interactive display, both educators and students have seamless access to the applications they use every day, all without the need to physically connect to an external computer. kapp iQ can be mounted on a mobile floor stand, meaning the latest advancements facilitate the creation of flexible learning environments both within and outside of classrooms — it’s ready for collaboration anywhere, without the inconvenience of managing cables and hardware.
Features in the updated SMART kapp iQ include:
- kapp iQ’s award-winning multi-way, multi-device whiteboarding capability
- Built-in web browser
- One-touch instant access to SMART amp cloud-based collaboration software, SMART lab game-based learning activity software (anticipated in August), and a SMART Notebook collaborative learning software viewer (anticipated in August)
- Wi-Fi-based screencasting to easily share content from student devices (anticipated in August)
- External PC access via HDMI and USB
- Automatic over-the-air (OTA) software updates
SMART kapp iQ is available in three sizes. The 55″ model has a suggested education price in the United States of $3,999. The 65″ model has a suggested education price in the United States of $4,999. The 75″ model has a suggested education price in the United States of $6,999. Here are all the specs. Leave a Comment
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InFocus Adds the Kangaroo Mobile Desktop Pro InFocus Corporation announced the Kangaroo Mobile Desktop Pro, that takes their original Kangaroo Mobile Desktop PC and adds features and connectivity to unlock a variety of new uses, making it unique from any other PC on the market.
The Windows 10 Kangaroo Pro features the new Dock Pro with VGA, HDMI and Ethernet connectivity as well as one USB 3.0 port, two USB 2.0 ports, a 2.5 inch hard drive bay and an audio port, expanding the applications for this powerful, ultra-portable PC.
With a mouse, keyboard and any screen (or even an iPad), Kangaroo Pro becomes a full Windows 10 desktop PC. Now with the added VGA connection, Kangaroo Pro can be used with virtually any PC Monitor or projector for uncompressed media files, Microsoft Office desktop programs, as a presentation device or as an on-the-go travel companion.
With its $199 price point, educators can present content in the classroom by connecting Kangaroo Pro to a projector or digital whiteboard and can easily move it between classrooms, without shutting down, because of the integrated battery and pocket-sized form factor.
OSLinx is an interesting Kangaroo application that allows users to have their Win10 Kangaroo on their iPads.Today, a new full IOS version, which now includes iPhone functionality, of the OSLinx app is available on the Apple app store for $4.99 USD. The app update allows users to fully interact with their Kangaroo Windows 10 desktop via the touch interface of iPhones (4s, 5/5s, 6/6s and 6 Plus/6s Plus) with iOS8 and above.
An updated iPad version (free) is also available today to support screen resolutions of 1025×768 and iPad Pro 1400×1050. The updated version of OSLinx is available for download by all current Kangaroo users.
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Elite Screens Debuted the WhiteboardScreen TE Elite Screen’s WhiteboardScreen Thin Edge (TE) series is the latest in Elite’s line of whiteboard-projection screens designed to work with today’s standard, short throw and UST projectors. It uses Elite’s Versawhite 1.1 gain matte white projection surface that allows for a wide viewing angle for training/classroom applications. The material is coated with a scratch-resistant optical nanotech resin. This allows the screen to also serve as a dry-erase board. It’s also GREENGUARD (UL 2818) certified for indoor air quality compliance.
The 5mm thin-edge design serves two purposes. First, it protects the screen’s exterior while allowing the instructor to maximize presentation space. Second, it has an aesthetically pleasing appearance that also supports a utility tray that can even accommodate interactive projector accessories. It is recognized by seasoned instructors to be the ideal and cost-effective classroom solution that can even be modified to serve as an interactive video display.
Here are the details. Leave a Comment
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Audipack Launches FSW-Atlas Mobile Mount AV SystemThe FSW Atlas is a mobile, large-screen mount system that Audiopack is calling a “trolly,” which includes an integrated speakers and all necessary connections for power and signal routing. Included with lockable wheels, the rollable mount system includes connectivity for HDMI, RJ45, PowerCON and space for other connections.
In the vertical columns of the mount include two 30 Watt speakers, all the cables and the three-fold power strip are invisible integrated in the frame. With the L&S 5 or multi-VESA mounting bracket, the screen is easily installed. It’s also height-adjustable.
The FSW-Atlas supports screens up to 65 inch and 30 kg and has a Lock & Secure 5 mounting interface. The bigger version, the FSW-Atlas XL is equipped for screens up to 100 inches and 85 kilograms and has a multi-VESA mounting interface.
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Waveguide Enters Philly Waveguide Consulting announces the opening of a new office in Philadelphia and the addition of Brian Huff, CTS-D, LEED AP, as senior consultant and director of the Philadelphia office.
“Having worked side by side with Brian for many years on major AV industry initiatives including sustainability and standards, I know he’s going to be a great addition to our team,” says Waveguide CEO Scott Walker.“And from our new Philly office, we can better serve our clients from D.C. to New York and beyond.”
Brian comes to Waveguide from Vantage Technology Consulting Group, where he was an associate principal and supported Vantage’s efforts on the United Nations Campus Renovation as well as numerous higher education projects at leading institutions, including Princeton University, Washington State University, Dartmouth University and Boston College. Prior to that, Brian was a principal at Acentech and established their Philadelphia office. As an active member of the international AV trade association InfoComm, Brian has served on multiple InfoComm committees, including the Green AV Task Force. In addition, he was a member of InfoComm’s ANSI Performance Standards Steering Committee, serving as chair of the Documentations Standards Development committee. Brian holds a High Tech MBA from Northeastern University as well as multiple industry certifications, including InfoComm’s Certified Technology Specialist in Design (CTS-D) and USGBC’s LEED AP.
Waveguide’s newest office is located at 630 Freedom Business Center Dr., King of Prussia, PA 19406. In addition to Philadelphia, Waveguide has offices in Atlanta (headquarters), Los Angeles, Chicago, Houston, Tampa and Raleigh.
Waveguide is here. Leave a Comment
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BenQ Debuts PV3200PT 4K UHD Monitor BenQ America today launched its PV3200PT IPS and 4K resolution monitor. Purpose-built for 4K video postproduction applications, the 32-inch 4K Ultra HD display (3840×2160) has 10-bit color capability and 100-percent sRGB color, following the Rec. 709 standard.
One interesting feature of the BenQ PV3200PT is that they claim it can reproduce color tones with a Delta-E value of less than or equal to two and features a 14-bit 3D Look Up Table (LUT) for RGB color blending. In addition, BenQ claims the monitor offers a brightness uniformity function enabling it to maintain a consistent image across the entire display. By balancing brightness to a deviation and chromaticity less than 10 percent, the monitor offers a more consistent viewing experience. Individually tested to verify performance, the PV3200PT also features simple hardware and software calibration by allowing users to adjust the unit’s image processing chip without altering graphics card data.
An OSD controller provides preset custom modes so users can quickly switch between Rec. 709, EBU and SMPTE-C modes, increasing editing efficiency while saving time. ThePV3200PT monitor is part of BenQ’s Eye-Care models, which are designed to increase visual comfort while performing common computer tasks. While conventional screens flicker at a rate of 200 times per second, BenQ’s ZeroFlicker technology eliminates flickering at all brightness levels to effectively reduce eye fatigue and provide a more comfortable viewing experience during prolonged sessions of computer use. The monitor also includes ergonomic customization such as height, tilt, pivot and swivel adjustments.
BenQ’s PV3200PT monitor is shipping and lists for $1,499. Here are all the detailed specs. Leave a Comment
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Bose Professional Ships F1 Model 812 Passive Flexible Array LoudspeakerBose Professional announced that the F1 Model 812 Passive Flexible Array loudspeaker is now shipping. This new passive loudspeaker, along with a powered model introduced in 2015, are the first loudspeakers offering “FLEX array technology.” The ability to configure the array into four unique shapes lets installers focus sound to target listening areas, offering exceptional power and clarity for a wide range of applications and venues. This is a very cool idea and we shot a video of it at ISE here.
The passive F1 loudspeaker is designed for permanent installations in sports bars, live music venues, clubs, schools, houses of worship and any small to medium size venue requiring a high performance loudspeaker solution.
Included with an array of eight Bose proprietary 2.25-inch drivers, 100-degree horizontal waveguides, a high-powered 12-inch woofer and a lower crossover point, F1 Model 812 passive loudspeakers deliver high SPL performance while maintaining vocal and midrange clarity that’s better than conventional installable products. The F1 Passive loudspeaker has a rugged enclosure with Six M8 threaded insert points that can be combined with a full suite of optional mounting accessories including Pan and tilt, yoke and U bracket options. Additionally, both the portable and installed F1 systems offer easy setup, aesthetically pleasing design and rugged durability.
Bose F1 Model 812 Passive Flexible Array is 26.1″ H x 13.1″ W x 14.6″ D and 47 pounds (21.31 kilograms). Here are all the specs. Leave a Comment
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NEC Debuts 24″ AH-IPS Panel NEC Display recently announced the MultiSync E245WMi-BK wide-screen desktop monitor with LED backlighting. Using an AH-IPS panel, the E245WMi-BK is native 1920×1200 resolution and has a brightness spec of 250 cd/m2 and a 1000:1 contrast ratio. The display also features an optional mounting plate to secure a zero or thin client.
The E245WMi-BK display includes the following features:
- 24-inch, 16:10, LED-backlit LCD wide-screen panel
- Fully ergonomic stand with height, pivot, tilt and swivel adjustability
- DisplayPort, DVI-D and VGA inputs, which connect to the latest peripherals and future-proof one’s investment
- Securely mount zero or thin clients with the included mounting plate
- Touch-sensitive OSD controls
- Compatibility with NEC’s NaViSet Administrator 2 asset management system
- Intelligent Power Manager (IPM), off timer and smart sensing technology with ambient light sensor that automatically dims the screen to further reduce energy consumption
- ECO Mode and carbon footprint meter
- ENERGY STAR 6.0 and TCO 7.0 compliance
The E245WMi-BK will ship next week and list for $319. Here are all the specs. Leave a Comment
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QSC Debuts New AcousticDesign Series Pendant Loudspeakers QSC just launched two new pendant mount loudspeakers as part of their AcousticDesign Series. The new QSC AcousticDesign Series pendant loudspeakers (AD-P) utilize the same design philosophy as the recently launched ceiling models (AD-C). Directivity Matched Transition (DMT) has been implemented across platforms for surface, ceiling, and now pendant applications.
QSC’s Intrinsic Correction (QSC’s custom loudspeaker voicings) can be easily implemented for optimal performance and protection when using the Q-SYS Platform in the system design. QSC says using simple drag-and-drop blocks make it easy to add any AcousticDesign loudspeaker to a system design. As an added feature, they are voice alarm system compatible — UL1480 (North America) for use in Fire Alarm Systems
The two models are the:
- AD-P4T: 4.5″ two-way, 150° conical DMT coverage, available in black or white
- AD-P6T: 6.5″ two-way, 140° conical DMT coverage, available in black or white
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Barco Adds Audio Solution to Simulation Line Barco will officially roll out its new immersive audio system for simulation this month. Using their IOSONO audio processor for immersive sound experiences, Barco will bring what it says is the same high fidelity to audio for simulation systems as it does for visualization.
To make simulation systems approximate reality as closely as possible, you need to involve as many senses as possible. Up to now, simulation systems have largely been restricted to visualization. Barco is now adding great audio − which is of crucial importance, for example, in large simulation systems and dome setups, where the trainee cannot see the entire projection canvas at a glance. The audio cues alert the trainee as to where to look, adding substantially to the sense of realism the simulation system provides.
Barco’s IOSONO audio system has already proven its power to the market. First conceived for the cinema and entertainment market, its unique way of working makes it perfect for simulation as well. Contrary to existing approaches — which use fixed sound positioning — Barco’s IOSONO system uses real-time rendering of the sound to position it where it normally would be relative to the trainee’s position.
The IOSONO Core processor includes fast processing moving objects, such as human-generated noise, cars, and aircraft. The sound always follows the object, no matter how fast it is traveling, providing the audio cues needed to spot objects even when they are not in visual range.
Here are the product details. Leave a Comment
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Hitachi Intros 8000+ Series Projectors Hitachi America added the 8000+ Series 3LCD projectors to its high-end projector line up: CP-X8800, CP-WX8650, CP-WX8750, CP-WU8600 and CP-WU8700. The 8000+ Series projectors have HDBaseT inputs, multiple interchangeable lenses, Accentualizer and High Dynamic Contrast Range (HDCR), Image Optimizer technology as well as 360 rotation capability. Brightness specs range between 6000 to 8000 lumens, depending on the model. All the projectors are XGA (1024×768) or WUXGA (1920×1200) resolution.
Unique features include edge blending and warping 360-degree projection and they can be mounted at an angle (including at 90-degrees) for portrait projection.
All five models are integrated with their Color Management technology that they claim allows users to change hue, saturation and luminance of the six colors (red, green, blue, cyan, magenta and yellow) individually. This feature allows you to isolate the colors to only change one specific color at a time. The Accentualizer and HDCR also help by enhancing the shade, sharpness and gloss of the projection while increasing the contrast.
The 8000+ Series projectors include Hitachi’s Status Monitoring System that produces information about the projector’s operational status in real-time on a rear panel LED screen. Additional advanced features also include motorized lens shift, zoom and focus; center lens design; picture by picture; picture in picture and DICOM (Digital Imaging and Communications in Medicine) Simulation Mode. Every model is equipped to be compatible with five interchangeable lenses suitable for various screen sizes and installation environments. The lenses include the FL-701, SL-712, ML-713, LL-704 and UL-705. The 8000+ Series models are embedded with control capabilities compatible with Crestron Connected, AMX Device Discovery and Extron XTP.
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Kramer Ships VP-734 4K Switcher/ScalerThe VP-734 is a 4K-UHD (3440×2160) resolution presentation switcher scaler from Kramer. With four HDMI inputs (chroma sampling of 4:2:0), one DisplayPort (chroma sampling of 4:2:4) input and two analog inputs, the switcher is a 7×1 auto-switcher (or programmable switcher) with a built-in scaler that scales the output to 4K resolution (or anything below).
Other features include 7 Stereo Analog Audio Inputs, the ability to embed and de-embed audio from the HDMI, EDID management, IR, RS232 and web-based control as well as Kramer’s FTB (fade-thru-black) switching technology.
Here are all the specs. Leave a Comment
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New Sterling Headphone Amps Is Very Simple Sterling Audio launched three new headphone amp models today. Designed primarily for personal recording studios and other applications where space is at a premium, the four-channel Sterling S104HA offers one rear-panel, stereo, TRS line input and four front-panel stereo headphone outputs, each with a 10-increment level slider. The S104HA comes in a sturdy and lightweight aluminum chassis with non-slip rubber feet and is powered by an external 12 VDC supply for low-noise operation.
Recording studios and broadcast facilities that require more flexible inputs and a more robust chassis should consider the four-channel S204HA, which is housed in a rugged aluminum chassis enclosed with a rubberized casing to withstand the stress of constant use. The S204HA’s front panel sports an unbalanced stereo line input and four rotary level knobs for the headphone outputs. The rear panel offers four stereo headphone outputs and balanced TRS left and right line inputs on the rear panel. Like the S104HA, the S204HA is powered by an external 12 VDC supply.
For more demanding professional applications, Sterling’s S418HA, which features two stereo main line inputs, eight direct line-level inputs for individual monitor mixes, and eight discrete, stereo headphone amplifiers, each with two headphone outputs-all packaged in a steel, 1U professional rack chassis. The S418HA can operate in stereo or mono and provides an output level control and clip LED for each channel. Its low-noise, 15V toroidal transformer delivers the superior output power and headroom required for professional use. An elegant faceplate with backlighting enables easy operation in low light environments. Parallel, balanced ¼” outputs enable you to cascade additional S418HAs.
The S104HA will list for $49.99, the S204HA will sell for $79.99. Here are all the specs. Leave a Comment
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NEC to Debut MultiSync X554HB at InfoCommIntegrated with a built-in NFC (near field communication) sensor for control and maintenance, the new NEC MultiSync X554HB is a 1920×1080 LED-lit LCD monitor that’s spec’d at a 5000:1 contrast ratio and integrates a human proximity sensor that can change brightness, volume, and inputs or power the display up or down. The X554HB is designed to be installed in shop windows or in cabinets for outdoor applications, offering high levels of brightness. The display can be seen clearly in bright locations where external light shines in and is thus optimal for digital signage on which information must be displayed accurately.
Other features include HDBaseT inputs (along with HDMI), an OPS slot for a digital signage player, LAN support and a DisplayPort input for daisy-chain display in video wall applications. The DisplayPort connection also makes a 2×2 video wall with native Ultra High Definition 4K/2K (3,840×2,160) possible.
This optional human (motion) sensor accessory (KT-RC2) helps to deliver creative digital signage to end users by allowing for dynamic control of brightness, audio and source inputs while saving on operating costs. Auto dimming adjusts the backlight of the LCD automatically depending on the amount of ambient light.
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Barco Intros New Line of Laser-Phosphor Projectors for Simulation Barco just launched a new family of solid-state (laser) projectors to the simulation market. This new family of laser-phosphor projectors will exist alongside their LED range. The F90 — the first projector to be launched in this family — is spec’d at 13,000 lumens and up to 4K UHD (3840×2160) resolution.
The F90 series was designed with smearing reduction for fast-moving objects and has something called Single Step Processing (SSP) technology, which, Barco says, ensures lower latency than competing technologies, makes sure that, even in fast-moving simulation systems, the sense of reality is upheld at all times. The embedded warp and blend capability, Constant Light Output (CLO), unmatched color performance over time and dual iris system with optical filters for a great contrast range, guarantee that images can be displayed in any simulation system. And, the laser-phosphor light source is spec’d at 40,000 hours.
All the specs on the F90 series are here. Leave a Comment
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Visix Mobile Wayfinding App: Directions in the Palm of Your HandDigital wayfinding can incorporate HTML5, QR codes and SMS directions to bring a modern experience to people trying to get somewhere. But wayfinding apps combined with proximity beacons puts the directions right in their hands. And adding a geofence and interactive touchscreens can help round out the visitor wayfinding experience.
The app sits on a smartphone or other mobile device, and can be customized to any environment with branding, site-specific maps, pictures of buildings and other contextual cues. Proximity beacons are small, wireless devices mounted at entrances, elevators and other important landmarks. The app and the beacons work together to give the user turn-by-turn directions to their destination. When a smartphone with the app approaches the beacon, it sends out a Bluetooth signal that feeds directions to the next beacon. The app provides a picture of environmental cues for reference, and simple directions (like “turn left at corner and go to the elevators”). The user then goes to that location, where another beacon picks them up and gives further instructions (“take the elevator to the second floor”).
A geofence is a virtual perimeter tied to actual physical locations, like around a building, or at the edge of a parking lot. When a GPS-enabled smartphone crosses the border of this space, it receives a notification welcoming the visitor and providing instructions, general directions to the lobby, or important information about the location. If the device does not have the app installed, the geofence can send a message prompting the user to download it during their first visit. Repeat visitors are reminded that there is a digital wayfinding solution for them, and encouraged to make use of it.
Interactive touchscreens located around a facility can be paired with an app to give visitors a full-service wayfinding solution. The app is mainly for directions, but a touchscreen can also include directories, event schedules, social media feeds, messages and advertising – anything your digital signage is promoting. The app and the touchscreens are separate products, so they can have different designs – more information and detail for the touchscreens, and a more streamlined design for the app. However, the app can also be designed to include feeds for messages and announcements, turning every smartphone and mobile device into an extension of your digital signage system.
Digital wayfinding is a modern tool that improves the experience for visitors, putting the information they need right in their hands, at exactly the place they need it.
For all the details, go here. Leave a Comment
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Compound Photonics Likely Freaked Out Texas Instruments’ DLP Team Yesterday With 14mm 4K Resolution Chip LaunchAt Display Summit China, Compound Photonics introduced what it’s calling the world’s smallest native 4K imaging device, measuring only 14 millimeters diagonally and featuring pixels smaller than three microns. Compound Photonics is an eight-year old technology company whose engineering and marketing teams are comprised of some of the brightest stars in the photonics and projection industries.
Hidden at the bottom of their press announcement was the contact information for Pierre Richer — former NEC Display president and CEO! So, this is the REAL DEAL!
“Compound Photonics is the biggest and most capable photonics and projector manufacturer that you have most likely never heard of,” declared Tim Anderson, the company’s vice president of product management in his Display Summit presentation. “We are the company that has succeeded in introducing the world to RGB solid state laser based technology, making it finally possible to manufacture a 3,000 lumen lamp-less native 4K projector that rivals the performance delivered by today’s solid state displays.”
So, what’s all this mean? Well, in case you aren’t reading between the lines, there’s a new projection company about to hit the market with a pure-laser projector, using a technology that the company claims is higher resolution AND smaller than DLP — the dominant projection technology, as far as quantity goes, in the market right now. So, this could be big.
Compound Photonics says that the use of RGB laser technology eliminates lamps, creates a huge new color gamut to work with, and enables balancing the color output of each color channel to achieve a perfect white point. And, Anderson claimed that Compound Photonics has invested significant engineering resources to reduce the cost of RGB lasers and speckle.
“Projector customers around the world want to be able to project a huge image in full daylight and still have an outstanding image,” Anderson said. “Our engineers have developed specific algorithms that use an expanded color gamut made possible by RGB laser technology. These algorithms combat ambient light and dramatically improve color contrast.”
Anderson said that Compound Photonics offered capabilities ranging from tiny, bright, full HD laser light engines for mobile devices, an embedded 1080P projector that is less than two cubic centimeters in size, IR and Green lasers, head-up car displays, near-eye augmented reality, and gesture recognition. “We are a team of over 300 scientists, technologists, software engineers, and marketers that are committed to changing the way consumers interact with technology. Our corporate directory is a veritable ‘who’s who’ of technology and includes veterans of IBM, InFocus, Epson, NEC, Philips, Pixelworks and Microsoft,” he said.
Compound Photonics’ primary manufacturing and design centers are located in Phoenix, Arizona and Newton Aycliffe in the United Kingdom. The company also has offices in Vancouver, Washington; Redmond, Washington; Madison, Wisconsin; and Chicago, Illinois. The company was founded in 2008.
Here’s a link to exactly how the technology works. Leave a Comment
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