|
Click above to learn more
Self-Service Healthcare Comes to Retail By Dave Kin Sr. Vice President, Frank Mayer and Associates, Inc. The following is reprinted with permission from the Digital Screenmedia Association (DSA). For more information, go to http://www.digitalscreenmedia.org. In a game of word association, your response to “health care” might well be “reform” given recent health policy headlines. Increasingly, we’re living in a time when “health care” and “self-service” are two concepts that also belong together. Self-service kiosks have been used in traditional health care settings for wayfinding, patient check-in, health education and visitor access. Now consumer-directed health care and user-friendly self-service technology have converged to make retailers a natural setting for health kiosks designed for education and wellness screening. Retailers’ efforts are effectively putting health care in the path of our everyday lives. Retail and brand executives or average consumers who haven’t checked their blood pressure in a store lately will be pleasantly surprised by the transformation of the blood pressure kiosk. It is being replaced by multi-dimensional digital technology like the SoloHealth Station. SoloHealth is on a short list of FDA-approved providers of self-service consumer health care that retailers are turning to. There are currently over 1,000 SoloHealth Stations in select retailers across the U.S., including Wal-Mart, Sam’s Club, Safeway, Publix, CVS and Schnucks Markets. The SoloHealth Station enables self-service health screenings for vision, blood pressure, weight, and body mass index, a symptom checker, and an overall health assessment free of charge. The kiosk also helps connect consumers to local professionals through their databases, helping people enter the most appropriate and accurate point in the health care system. An obvious benefit to retailers is that health care kiosks drive traffic, as do the walk-in health care clinics that have sprung up in big box, drug and grocery stores in the last few years. There is also a benefit to brands that can target messages on-screen to health-conscious consumers while they’re just yards away from their products. Beyond these strategic aims lies a societal benefit to health and wellness screening that Bart Foster, founder and CEO of SoloHealth voiced saying, “Awareness and prevention are probably the best frontline defense against poor health and cutting unnecessary costs across the board.” Notably, the kiosk’s engagement statistics show that 71 percent of users are at medium to high risk for hypertension, while 51 percent are overweight to obese. A key to the success of any kiosk is whether people will want to use it. Today’s self-service healthcare has cross-generational appeal. Members of Generation X are accustomed to doing their own healthcare research. Yet, the incorporation of intuitive touchscreen features that people have become familiar with on their smartphones and tablets makes the kiosk experience accessible to a wider age range. Self-service health care kiosks in retail settings bring some of the same positive customer experiences that are made possible by kiosks in other settings like airports, grocery stores and department stores: immediate access, efficient communication and the portability of cloud-based access to information. If you haven’t personally crossed paths with a self-service health and wellness kiosk at retail just yet, be patient. Based on their early success, there should be 4,000 or more out there a year from now. Dave King is senior vice president at in-store merchandising firm Frank Mayer and Associates, Inc. Leave a Comment Share Article
BICSI Pulls Support for STEP — But, Does it Matter? By Gary Kayye rAVe Founder Last month, BICSI pulled its support (via a letter, the text of which is below) of the InfoComm STEP program. STEP is an acronym for the Sustainable Technology Environments Program (STEP), a rating system and guide managed by the STEP Foundation, a nonprofit organization comprised of technology trade associations representatives, their members and STEP supporters. At its core, STEP is intended to bring sustainability to the process of planning, designing, integrating and operating technology systems, as well as reduce long-term environmental impact from technology deployment. STEP was envisioned to encompass all low-voltage building and communication technologies into a phase-by-phase, sustainable deployment process. STEP not only accounts for the ongoing energy consumption of information technology systems but also for the reduction of raw materials in the deployment of information technology solutions and indoor environmental quality of technology-rich environments. STEP also encourages the use of information technologies to make buildings smarter and reduce paper consumption, as well as reduce greenhouse gas emissions associated with travel. I spoke to InfoComm’s STEP Foundation director, Allen Weidman, and he told me, “The STEP Foundation remains strong, despite the departure of one of its supporting members. CCCA, COMPTIA, InfoComm and TIA are strongly committed to continuing the mission of the STEP Foundation and advancing the mission of promoting sustainability in the built-environment. The Foundation is grateful for the valuable contributions made by BICSI in the early years of the organization and we will continue to work with BICSI members and staff to find common points of interest and mutual support to help advance a smart and sustainable Information Communications Technology (ICT) industry.” And, in reality, with the convergence of AV and IT, the support of COMPTIA is way more important than BICSI. I’d like to have seen BICSI continue to support STEP, but we respect its decision. Below is the letter that BICSI sent to its members regarding STEP: Dear BICSI Members, In November of 2011, BICSI’s Board of Directors voted to become a Sustaining Member of the Sustainable Technologies Environment Program (STEP™) Foundation. At that time BICSI joined InfoComm, CompTIA, and the Telecommunications Industry Association (TIA) as Sustaining Members in STEP. In 2012 the Communications Cable & Connectivity Association (CCCA) also joined STEP as a Supporting Member. Becoming a member of STEP was a continuation of BICSI’s effort to leverage the increasing focus on sustainability that we began with the Green Building Technology Alliance, and had the promise of enabling BICSI to add programs, publications and services to our educational and credentialing portfolio. The original STEP Foundation concept was a fairly simple one. Its Mission was to bring sustainability to the process of planning, designing, integrating and operating technology systems, as well as to reduce the long-term environmental impact from technology deployment. The fulcrum of STEP would be a STEP sustainability rating system, and STEP membership would require a manageable start-up investment by BICSI. Over the past months the STEP Board of Directors has been involved in a series of long term strategic planning activities. During this process it has become evident to us that STEP’s direction was changing and the new direction was significantly different from the original STEP concept and not consistent with our BICSI sustainability vision and not in the best interest of our members. Given these differing visions the BICSI Board voted during the Winter Conference to have BICSI withdraw from the STEP Foundation, effective immediately. Our partner associations in STEP have been notified. Although BICSI will no longer be a STEP member, early indications are that BICSI’s withdrawal from STEP will not hurt our relationships with InfoComm, TIA, CompTIA and CCCA, and we intend to continue working with them in the future. With our STEP withdrawal I have also suspended activity of the STEP Committee until we have a new direction for our sustainability efforts. Brian Hansen and the STEP Committee have worked very hard, and I wanted to express my personal thanks for Brian’s leadership and the exemplary way he has represented BICSI on the STEP Board of Directors. In the interim I have appointed U.S. Western Region Director Larry Gillen, RCDD, ESS, OSP, CTS, to head up a BICSI Sustainability Task Force, with the mission of exploring options that will enable BICSI to continue to provide industry leadership in the sustainability arena. I will provide updates on these efforts as they emerge. More as I know it. Sincerely, Jerry L. Bowman, RCDD, RTPM, NTS, CISSP, CPP, CDCDP BICSI President Leave a Comment Share Article
Acer Attacks Home Gaming Projector Market with $800 Projector Acer America today announced that its Acer H6510BD projector for home gamers is now shipping. The 1920x1080p projector includes 2D-to-3D conversion without requiring extra software and is spec’d at 3,000 lumens brightness. It includes a so-called ExtremeEco mode enable power savings up to 70 percent and extend lamp life up to 7,000 hours for a low total cost of ownership. It’s also compact enough for travel measuring 10.4×8.7×1.3 inches and weighing just 4.8 pounds. The projector is equipped with several connectors for multiple-PC source input, offering instant switching and connection options. Input interfaces include analog RGB/component video (D-Sub), composite video (RCA), S-Video (mini DIN), component (three RCA), two HDMI (video, audio, HDCP) and PC audio (stereo mini jack). It lists for $799. Here are all the specs: http://us.acer.com/ac/en/US/content/series/projectors-home Leave a Comment Share Article
Mitsubishi Electric’s MDT701S and MDT552S LED Monitors Are Energy Savers Here at DSE, Mitsubishi Electric Visual Solutions has introduced the 70-inch MDT701S monitor — one of the thinnest available today, and the 55-inch MDT552S — featuring a super-thin bezel with a super-slim body depth. Both LCDs are edge-lit LED technology. Other features include:
- Energy Star compliant.
- Front- and rear-ambient light sensors that detect lighting conditions in two areas. These sensors automatically adjust the monitor’s brightness level, balance image brightness for optimum viewing, and use less energy in areas with high ambient light.
- A robust jack panel that provides a diverse, versatile set of connectivity options for quick and simple installation in a wide range of environments.
- An Intel OPS (Open Pluggable Specification) Card Slot for flexibility in expansion and scalability.
- Two built-in 10-watt speakers that fire downward to eliminate sound reverberation, which often occurs with wall-facing, rear-mounted speakers.
- USB Hub for direct connectivity through a variety of devices.
- AMX / Crestron RoomView compatibility for easy integration and installation.
Extron Announces New EDID Emulator for HDMI Extron introduced the EDID 101H, an EDID Emulator for HDMI signal sources. It features EDID Minder, an Extron exclusive technology that automatically manages EDID communication between connected devices. Pre-stored EDID is communicated to the source based on a user-selected resolution and refresh rate. Alternatively, the EDID 101H can be set to capture and store EDID information when connected to a display. A unique HPD (Hot Plug Detect) port provides control for remote cameras and other signal sources that require a periodic HPD trigger. The EDID 101H joins the EDID 101 Series of EDID emulators, which includes the EDID 101D for DVI and the EDID 101V for VGA signals. The EDID 101H is housed in a compact 1″ high, quarter rack width metal enclosure for convenient, discreet installation. An energy-efficient external universal power supply is included. Here are all the specs: http://www.extron.com/product/product.aspx?id=edid101h&s=5 Leave a Comment Share Article
Click above to learn more
Extron Now Shipping Three-Input, Compact, HDCP-Compliant Scaler Extron is now shipping its new DSC 301 HD, a compact HDCP-compliant video scaler. This scaler has an HDMI input, a configurable high resolution analog input, a composite video input and an HDMI output. Featuring an advanced scaling engine with 30-bit processing and 1080i deinterlacing, the DSC 301 HD delivers uncompromised picture quality for output resolutions up to 1920×1200, including 1080p and 2K. It includes EDID Minder, automatic input switching and simplifies system connections by embedding audio from one of the three stereo inputs onto the HDMI output. The DSC 301 HD offers several features that enhance and simplify AV system setup and operation. For HDMI signals with protected content, Key Minder authenticates and maintains continuous HDCP encryption between input sources and displays to ensure quick and reliable switching. EDID Minder ensures that the display’s capabilities are communicated to connected video sources to obtain an optimal image. Front panel controls, intuitive on-screen menus, plus USB and RS-232 connections provide flexible control and monitoring capability. To view a product video and for more information, please visit http://www.extron.com/dsc301hdpr Leave a Comment Share Article
BenQ Debuts New 4K Lumen HD Projector BenQ’s new SH940 is a native 1920x1080p resolution DLP projector that’s specified at 4,000 lumens and a contrast ratio of 50,000:1. Included with horizontal and vertical lens shift, 2D keystone correction and throw ratios of up to 2.43, the SH940 is aimed at both home theater applications since it includes an HDMI ports and a VGA port in addition to a set of five BNC (RGBHV) for connecting systems the old-fashioned way. For IT managers maintaining facility-wide installations, features such as scheduling, monitoring, email alerts and control of multiple A/V gear are all provided through an intuitive user interface to make maintenance easier. With a LAN control feature, the SH940 also provides support for Crestron, SNMP, PJLink, and AMX systems, enabling remote management and control in addition to projector maintenance from workstations. To reduce energy costs, power-saving features such as an “Eco Blank Mode” allow presenters to blank out the projection screen whenever the projector is not in use, while a standby mode will lower power consumption to less than 0.5W while the SH940 is inactive. Lamp replacement has also been made extra easy with access from the side or top of the projector while a filter-free optical system and BenQ’s no color decay further reduces the TCO of the device. The SH940 is shipping now and lists for $3,999. You can see all the specs at: http://www.BenQ.us Leave a Comment Share Article
Panasonic Ships New Solid Shine Series of LED/Laser Projectors Panasonic told rAVe today that its new SOLID SHINE Series of lamp-free projectors with DIGITAL LINK technology are already shipping. The LED/laser light source in the SOLID SHINE Series of one-chip DLP projectors is specified with a 20,000 hours light-source life span. All models in the series are spec’d to deliver 3,500 lumens of brightness. Integrated with a DIGITAL LINK terminal, and by combining an optional interface box with its HDMI and other input terminals, a user can transmit uncompressed HD digital video, audio and control signals (Ethernet, RS-232C) for up to 100 meters (328 feet) through a single CAT5e cable. DIGITAL LINK is an original function added to technology based on the transmission standards used in Crestron’s DigitalMedia 8G+ and Extron’s XTP Systems, as well as others. Signals from the ET-YFB100G Digital Interface Box can also be relayed to a non-DIGITAL LINK-ready projector by using another manufacturer’s equipment based on the same technology. The PT-RZ470/RZ370 Series projectors offer installation flexibility, with a 2x zoom, wide lens shift capability, HDMI/DVI digital inputs and Crestron RoomView compatibility. The PT-RZ470 Series offers additional flexibility with portrait mode projection capability, as well as edge blending, color matching and 3D. The PT-RZ370 Series, which includes the PT-RZ370U (1920×1080) and PT-RW330U (1280×800), are available immediately and list for $5,899 and $4,599, respectively. The PT-RZ470 Series, which includes the PT-RZ470UK/UW (1920×1080) and PT-RW430UK/UW (1280×800) will be available in March and will list for $6,799 and $5,499, respectively. Here are all the specs: http://panasonic.com/business/projectors/ Leave a Comment Share Article
Planar UltraRes Displays Bring 4K Clarity to Professional Applications At DSE, Planar Systems, Inc. announced its 84-inch Planar UltraResTM display product line, designed for ultra-high resolution commercial applications. The new Planar UltraRes 4K displays provide native ultra–high definition resolution (3840×2160), outstanding image quality and a range of configurations. Planar UltraRes displays are ideal for professionals in a wide variety of commercial industries who require a large viewing area, very high pixel density and enterprise-level features that allow teams to collaborate around more immersive and detailed visual information. Making the Most of High-Resolution Information Planar UltraRes 84-inch displays are designed for applications including energy, geospatial, engineering and design, architecture, aerospace, control room, collaborative conference room, medical imaging, science and digital signage, among others. Features include:
- LED-lit LCD technology, selectable dynamic contrast and local dimming for enhanced contrast
- 60Hz refresh rate and 10-bit color
- A slim metal bezel
- Failover power supply for 24×7 environments
- Planar Profile Mounting System, which allows for an extremely slim profile when wall-mounted (about three inches) and provides a front service access mode
- Advanced energy-efficient design that utilizes edge-lit LED technology and passive cooling
- Ability to switch to standby mode when no source is detected
- Consumption of less than 0.5 watt of standby power
- Modular for easy repair
- UR8450-LX: 2D landscape display ideal for conference and control rooms
- UR8450-MX: 2D landscape and portrait, higher brightness model designed for digital
- signage and other higher ambient light environments
- UR8450-3D: 2D and 3D landscape support, ideal for decision rooms where both 2D
- and 3D images and video are viewed
Tripleplay Services Launches DS Media Player At the Digital Signage Expo, TriplePlay Services launched an entry level alternative to its existing digital signage solution, TripleSign, called TripleLite. TripleLite is a stripped back digital signage player aimed at small businesses, restaurants, bars, cafes, schools and nurseries. As all content is stored on to USB locally to each screen, the solid-state based media player doesn’t lose its play capabilities if the network goes down. As all content is stored locally to each screen, so even if your Internet connection fails, your digital messaging will continue to display. Content can be static images or video and signals can be output via HDMI or VGA. It also works in landscape or portrait mode. Because it’s new, Tripleplay doesn’t have much information on its website yet. But here’s what the company does have: http://www.tripleplay-services.com/TripleLite-Electronic-Posters/ Leave a Comment Share Article
Extron Ships Six-Input, HDCP-Compliant Scaling Presentation Switcher Extron Electronics is shipping the IN1606, a six-input, HDCP-compliant video scaler that includes four HDMI inputs, two universal analog video inputs and two simultaneous HDMI outputs. The IN1606 accepts a wide variety of video formats including HDMI, HDTV, RGB and standard definition video. Its video scaling engine features 1080i deinterlacing, Deep Color processing and seamless switching with support for up to 1920×1200 and 2K output resolutions. Enhanced audio features include six stereo inputs, fixed and variable stereo outputs, two mic/line inputs with ducking and 48 V phantom power, plus HDMI audio embedding and de-embedding. The IN1606 also offers a complete AV switching system with flexible control options including Ethernet, RS-232, and USB. To enhance and simplify integration, the IN1606 features SpeedSwitch Technology, which Extron says provides exceptional switching speed for HDCP-encrypted content. EDID Minder and Key Minder automatically manage EDID communication and HDCP key negotiation between input and output devices to ensure reliable operation. The IN1606 also provides immediate visual confirmation and real-time HDCP status verification. With HDMI audio embedding and de-embedding, the IN1606 can insert analog input audio signals onto the HDMI output or extract embedded HDMI audio signals. Audio breakaway allows the analog audio channels to be separated from corresponding video signals so that the audio channels can operate as an independent switcher. The IN1606 also provides control of advanced audio configuration settings, such as audio gain, attenuation, mixing and ducking. For more information, click here: http://www.extron.com/in1606pr. Leave a Comment Share Article
NEC Display Adds 42-Inch, LED-Backlit LCD to V Series NEC announced today the 42-inch V423 LCD display, an addition to its commercial-grade V Series that utilizes LED backlighting for improved power consumption and a slimmer cabinet depth. NEC says the V423 offers a 46 percent decrease in power consumption while maintaining its brightness (450 cd/m² maximum brightness). The edge-lit LED backlight enables a slimmer cabinet depth and lightweight design. With a full HD panel, integrated temperature sensors and fans, the V423 large-screen display is ideal for applications that require extended use, such as retail stores, restaurants, indoor venues, training facilities and corporate boardrooms. The V423 also features built-in, 10-watt speakers and an Open Pluggable Specification (OPS) compliant expansion slot. Video, RS-232 control and power are passed internally from the display to the computer, eliminating additional cabling. The V423 includes the following features:
- LED backlighting technology for reduced power consumption
- Commercial-grade LCD panel and components, which enable extended run times
- 1920×1080 native resolution
- 320/450 cd/m² brightness (typical/maximum) and 1300:1 contrast ratio
- DisplayPort, HDMI, DVI-D (in/out), VGA 15 pin D-sub (Composite, Component, S-Video)
- RS-232C, Ethernet (RJ45), IR Remote, DDC/CI for external control
- Built-in, 10-watt speakers enhance the experience with superior sound
- TileMatrix, which facilitates video walls up to 10×10
- Built-in ATSC digital tuner, which allows for high-definition broadcast capabilities (V423-AVT model only)
- Bundled solution, which includes a V423 display and single board computer (OPS-PCAF-WS) for simple digital signage (V423-PC model only)
- Optional accessories, including speakers, stand, a variety of internal and external computers, digital tuner, calibration kit and wall mount
Polycom Ships SoundStation Connect with USB Polycom’s new SoundStation Connect plugs directly into any laptop or desktop USB port, letting users of soft-phone apps such as Polycom RealPresence Desktop 2.0, Microsoft Lync, Skype or IBM Sametime get HD-quality audio conferencing technology for small-group meetings in the office, at home or when traveling. Benefits of the SoundStation Connect include:
- Clear conversations: Polycom Voice technology reduces background noise, echo, and feedback, while microphone pickup covers more than 7 feet in diameter
- Easy to deploy with broad interoperability: Plug-and-play with no software driver needed, the device runs on USB power and works with any UC soft-phone app running on computers that support USB audio
- Easy to use and transport: The ultra-simple UI with volume up, down and mute makes it easy for anyone to use
BenQ Launches New Entry-Line of Projectors BenQ’s new entry-level M6 Series MS616ST, MX618ST, MX662 and MW663 models are spec’d at contrast ratios of 13,000:1 and up to 3,500 ANSI lumens of brightness. They also include BenQ’s SmartEco technology to cut energy consumption by up to 70 percent. Designed for corporate, classroom and personal spaces, the MS616ST (SVGA) and MX618ST (XGA) are short-throw projectors offering wireless connectivity for “Bring Your Own Device” (BYOD) scenarios. The higher brightness versions are the MX662 (XGA projector spec’d at 3,500 ANSI lumens) and the MW663 (a WXGA wide-screen projector spec’d at 3,000 ANSI lumens). One interesting feature is that the BenQ M6 Series features wireless display options for cable-free connection to content sources. When paired with BenQ’s Qpresenter app for the iPhone and iPad, users can transfer files from their handheld iOS devices directly to the projection screen. What makes them green is that BenQ’s SmartEco technology allows users the same brightness, features and performance at a lower total cost of ownership (TCO). For instance, in “Smart Eco” mode, projectors automatically adjust lamp power by up to 70 percent in order to use just the right amount of brightness needed. The result is an 6,500 hours of lamp life without any compromise to picture quality, according to BenQ. To further reduce power consumption, an “Eco Blank” mode allows teachers or presenters to blank out the screen whenever projection isn’t needed while a “No Source Detected” mode automatically lowers brightness to 30 percent when no display has been detected for more than three minutes. An audio pass through function also preserves lamp life by enabling only sound when projectors are on standby. Available now, the BenQ MS616ST, MX618ST, MX662 and MW663 retail at $699, $899, $799, and $799 respectively. Here they are: http://www.benq.us/products/product_line.cfm?plid=8 Leave a Comment Share Article
NEC Display Adds LED-Backlit V463 LCD to V Series NEC Display announced today its latest addition to its commercial-grade V Series, the V463 display, which offers an LED-backlight, slimmer cabinet depth and an OPS-compliant expansion slot. The V463 includes the following features:
- LED backlighting technology for reduced power consumption
- Commercial-grade LCD panel and components, which enable extended run times
- 1920 x 1080 full HD native resolution, which provides stunning clarity
- 350/500 cd/m² brightness (typical/maximum) and 4000:1 contrast ratio for vivid imagery
- DisplayPort, HDMI, DVI-D (in/out), VGA 15 pin D-sub (Composite, Component, S-Video), which enable connectivity to a wide range of peripherals
- RS-232C, Ethernet (RJ45), IR Remote, DDC/CI for external control
- Built-in, 10-watt speakers enhance the experience with superior sound
- TileMatrix, which facilitates video walls up to 10×10
- Built-in ATSC digital tuner, which allows for high-definition broadcast capabilities (V463-AVT model only)
- Bundled solution, which includes a V463 display and single board computer (OPS-PCAF-WS) for simple digital signage (V463-PC model only)
- Optional accessories, including speakers, stand, a variety of internal and external computers, digital tuner, calibration kit and wall mount
NSCA to Make Admission to MNEC Free to 20 People The NSCA Education Foundation is offering 10 scholarships for individuals from systems integrator firms as well as 10 scholarships for government officials to attend NSCA’s Mass Notification & Emergency Communications (MNEC) Symposium May 9, 2013, at PSA-TEC in Westminster, CO. The scholarships, provided by the NSCA Education Foundation, are valued at $249, the cost of attending the conference. NSCA members are encouraged to invite their local Authorities Having Jurisdiction (AHJs) or other government officials engaged in building code management to apply for scholarships for the MNEC Symposium. The integration community, in addition to government officials, will gain knowledge on the changing codes and better understand the need to require public and private venues to install or update a MNEC system in order to encourage public safety. “Both NSCA and the Foundation are advocates for building better integrators,” said Andy Musci, president of the NSCA Education Foundation. “By offering these scholarships, we are encouraging the two main audiences who need to be engaged in this important initiative to become better educated on the positive outcomes and opportunities that exist within this emerging marketplace.” Attendees of the MNEC Industry Symposium will take away information on how to:
- Build knowledge of MNEC including terminology, modified codes and regulations, constituent groups impacted, and inherent risks and rewards
- Build strategic partnerships between A/V, fire, life-safety, and security industries
- Communicate with customers/facility managers on the value of emergency systems
- Assist clients with a risk assessment to determine vulnerabilities to build the right MNEC system
- Provide opportunities to see the technologies and applications through table-top displays and representatives from leading manufacturers and consultants
BEHRINGER Introduces EUROPORT iP40PRO Behringer’s new iP40PRO is an all-in-one portable PA system with full Bluetooth connectivity. The iP40PRO can handle gatherings of up to 250 people and features a 40-watt, Class-D amplifier; a powerful 8” woofer and high-resolution tweeter housed in a rugged self-contained package, integrated wheels and a convenient retractable luggage-style handle for ease of transport. To further enhance portability, a rechargeable internal battery provides up to 12 hours of operation. A so-called “Planet Earth” switching power supply (100 – 240 V) makes it worldwide capable. It also offers noise-free audio with superior transient response and lower power consumption, according to Behringer. Two microphone inputs with mic preamps and individual volume controls are provided, as well as an auxiliary input for connecting external audio players. Here are all the specs: http://www.behringer.com/EN/Products/iP40PRO.aspx |
Utah Scientific Debuts 4K Routing Switchers Utah Scientific has launched a series of 6 Gbps UHD-SDI matrix switcher that supports new 4K signal formats (both single- and multi-link) used in ultra-high-definition (UHD) TV production. The company says the 6 Gbps UHD-SDI solutions will provide twice the density (at half the power) and outstanding performance at a substantially lower cost than competitive 3 Gbps multi-link solutions. |
Sharp Intros Two New XGA Projectors Sharp’s new PG-LX3500 and PG-LX3000 are XGA (1024×768) projectors using TI’s BrilliantColor Technology 3D-Ready format. They offer a brightness spec of up to 3,500 lumens (PG-LX3500). Weighing less than 6 pounds, they’re ultra-portable, and are aimed at schools and businesses where projectors are frequently moved from room to room. These models join the PG-LW3500 and PG-LW3000 WXGA projectors to complete the new series lineup. Both projectors have an HDMI and VGA input and include a 1.2x optical zoom lens. They also have LAN control content sending capabilities. You can get all the specs here: http://www.sharp-pdd.com/Home/Passthroughs/SharpStartLoginPage/tabid/56/Default.aspx?returnurl=%2fdefault.aspx Leave a Comment Share Article
Minnetonka Audio Software Rolls Out AudioTools Server 2.5 Minnetonka Audio Software’s AudioTools Server (ATS) 2.5 adds features including load balancing, workflow failover and support for additional codecs. It is the first system of its kind to include Dialogue Intelligence for dialog–anchored loudness correction, which uses Minnetonka Audio’s proprietary “p?rPath” algorithms for digital signal processing. ATS 2.5 is also first in offering improved short–term and momentary limiting with p?rPath loudness control. ATS 2.5 is an enterprise software system for automated audio processing in file–based workflows. The system conforms to the CALM Act, ATSC A/85, EBU R 128, ITU-R BS.1770, ARIB TR-B32 and OP-59, providing specialized workflows that apply loudness control optimized for different targets and platforms. Unlike existing digital or media asset management (DAM or MAM) systems, ATS 2.5 thoroughly addresses loudness control problems and automatically handles the audio essence without compromise. The result is easier administration, reduced manual loudness management, and greater peace of mind for engineers and executives during postproduction. Here are the details: http://www.minnetonkaaudio.com/index.php Leave a Comment Share Article
InfoComm University Plans 300+ Educational Sessions During InfoComm 2013 InfoComm 2013 will provide educational opportunities to more than 3,500 of the 35,000 professionals expected to attend this year’s week-long event, June 8-14 at the Orange County Convention Center in Orlando, Fla. InfoComm University offers career-advancing training and certifications, and InfoComm partner organizations and manufacturers will provide additional training sessions to round out the educational offerings. More than half of the classes in this year’s Show program are new. InfoComm University Tracks InfoComm University offers a comprehensive range of programs to address the diverse skills and interests of attendees. It includes:
- Pre-Show Education — three-day “total immersion” technical courses
- Super Tuesday — full day sessions prior to the show floor opening, including the popular Future Trends
- Daybreak Sessions — designed to tackle training subjects before the show floor opens
- Seminars and Workshops — one-and-a-half to two-hour seminars focus on AV systems and technology, and special four-hour workshops on everything from networking for AV professionals to incorporating video streaming and managing an AV department
- AV Tech Tours — tours of top AV installations in Orlando
- AV Systems Technology
- Networked AV Systems
- Business & Management
- Technology Manager
- Staging and Live Events
- Digital Signage
- First Timers
- Standards
- Women in Technology Symposium
- Unified Communications and Collaboration
- Wireless Trends
- Technology Managers Symposium
- Digital Image Content in Live Event Production
- CTS-D & CTS-I Symposium, focusing on the AV Systems Verification Checklist
- Future Trends
- Business Leadership Workshop
Extron Introduces New TeamWork Digital Collaboration System Extron’s TeamWork is basically a pre-packaged, pre-configured small room system that supports groups of four to six users. TeamWork 400 and TeamWork 600 Digital Collaboration System packages are pre-configured for ease of installation with virtually any furniture system, new or currently in use. The TeamWork system also works with most flat panel displays, laptops and tablets. For added flexibility, TeamWork is scalable and can be easily tailored to meet specific requirements with the addition of mounting hardware, support for legacy analog sources and other optional accessories. The TeamWork system is designed for simple, intuitive operation with a minimum of training. Users simply connect their laptop or tablet to a TeamWork “Show Me” cable to start the system, then press the “Share” button to display their content on the presentation display. When done, users simply disconnect and walk away, and the TeamWork system automatically turns itself off and is ready for the next collaboration session. The TeamWork collaboration system is HDCP-compliant and supports full resolution, full frame rate digital video up to 1080p/60 and analog computer-video up to 1920×1200. Each TeamWork system package is complete and ready for installation, and includes HDMI “Show Me” cables, a switcher, a system controller, a Cable Cubby enclosure with four US AC outlets, and other necessary system cables. TeamWork supports legacy analog computer sources with the optional TeamWork VGA Kit. Mounting hardware is also optionally available to facilitate different collaboration table or work surface designs. Here are all the specs for the TeamWork 400: http://www.extron.com/product/product.aspx?id=tw400&s=5 Here are all the specs for the TeamWork 600: http://www.extron.com/product/product.aspx?id=tw600&s=5 Leave a Comment Share Article
Planar Releases 3D BIM Models of LCD Displays and Video Walls This week Planar Systems announced that 3D Building Information Modeling (BIM) models of select Planar large format LCD displays and video walls are now available free through the Autodesk Seek web service. Autodesk Seek allows architects, engineers and designers to easily find, preview and download 3D models of Planar displays. They can then incorporate these models into their building plans without having to create the models themselves. 3D BIM models of three Planar product families are now available from the Autodesk Seek online content library, a web service that supplies free BIM models from a wide range of building product manufacturers. The models include Planar Mosaic architectural video walls, Clarity Matrix LCD video walls and Planar UltraLux Series large flat panel monitors. Each of these BIM models provides data-rich drawings and product specifications that accurately depict the displays and their options within Autodesk Revit, a market-leading 3D design platform. Here are the details: http://www.planar.com Leave a Comment Share Article
Extron Announces VNS 104 Multi-Stream Decoding Software Extron’s new VNS 104 Multi-Stream Decoding Software decodes and presents one or four video sources and one associated stereo audio source streamed from VN-Matrix 225 or 200 Series Encoders and VN-Matrix Recorder. VNS 104 multi-stream decoding software includes text overlay and status messaging features, which are valuable for distinguishing between AV sources during operation and system commissioning. VNS 104 multi-stream decoding software operates on Windows PCs and is managed as a part of a system by a VN-Matrix Enterprise Controller. It offers aspect ratio management for VN-Matrix streams, including FILL, FOLLOW and a 1:1 mode, which can be applied independently to each decoded source. VNS 104 provides an effective method for monitoring multiple streaming sources in a variety of environments including command and control, after action review, training and simulation, and medical or geological visualization. Here are all the specs: http://www.extron.com/product/product.aspx?id=vns104&s=5 Leave a Comment Share Article
Vaddio Launches Major Software Updates to AV Bridge and ClearVIEW HD-USB PTZ Camera Vaddio announced a major software update to the AV Bridge and ClearVIEW HD-USB PTZ camera that adds support for 4.2.0-encoded video applications including WebEx, Microsoft Lync and GoToMeeting. “When recording lectures with detailed classroom and presentation content, HD video is essential and the higher video resolutions work great,” said COO of Vaddio, Mark Steen. “But when you’re network only provides limited bandwidth, sometimes lower resolutions are the only way to go. Streaming an HD video call, only to have it scaled down on the soft client end, doesn’t make much sense and eats up a lot of bandwidth.” For more information on the ClearVIEW HD-USB Camera and AV Bridge software upgrade please visit the Vaddio website at http://www.vaddio.com in the Tech Center. Leave a Comment Share Article
Geostellar Launches Sustainable Energy Network Geostellar today announced the launch at SXSW of a first-of-its-kind online Sustainable Energy Network that the company claims helps homeowners slash costs, save money and fight climate change by reducing carbon pollution. This is all through the use of advanced home energy simulations, expert guidance and a broad array of solar installation, equipment and financing options. The social platform connects homeowners together to share expertise and encouragement and to promote the successful deployment of solar energy and energy efficient technologies. Geostellar is a sustainable energy network that uses a social platform you can see here: http://geostellar.com/ Leave a Comment Share Article
Extron Announces SDI, HD-SDI and 3G-SDI Input Capabilities for Quantum Series Videowall Processors Extron’s new two input 3G-SDI Card for the Quantum Elite videowall processing system accepts SDI, HD-SDI and 3G-SDI signals. The new 3G-SDI input card features Extron high performance scaling technology, motion adaptive deinterlacing and film mode cadence detection to ensure high quality image presentation on videowall displays. Automatic source format detection captures 480i and 576i SDI sources, HD-SDI sources up to 1080i/60 Hz and 3G-SDI sources up to 1080p/60 Hz, complying with SMPTE 259M, 292M and 424M digital video standards. SDI, HD-SDI and 3G-SDI input support is also available for the Quantum Connect videowall processing system. |
For all you REGULAR readers of rAVe GHGav [Green, Healthcare & Government AV] 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 me feedback, don’t reply to this newsletter. Instead, write directly to me at gary@ravepubs.com or for editorial ideas, Editor-in-Chief Sara Abrons at sara@ravepubs.com A little about me: I graduated from Journalism School at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill (where I am adjunct faculty). I’ve been in the AV-industry since 1987 where I started with Extron and eventually moved to AMX. So, I guess I am an industry veteran (although I don’t think I am that old). I have been an opinionated columnist for a number of industry publications and in the late 1990s I started the widely read KNews eNewsletter (the first in the AV market) and also created the model for and was co-founder of AV Avenue, which is now known as InfoComm IQ. rAVe [Publications] has been around since 2003, when we launched our original newsletter, rAVe ProAV Edition. Everything we publish is Opt-in — we spam NO ONE! rAVe ProAV Edition is our flagship ePublication with what we believe is a reach of virtually everyone in the ProAV market. rAVe HomeAV Edition, co-published with CEDIA and launched in February 2004, is, by far, the largest ePub in 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 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 my background, our team and what we do, go to https://www.ravepubs.com
Copyright 2013 – 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 GHGav [Green, Healthcare & Government AV] contains the opinions of the author only and does not necessarily reflect the opinions of other persons or companies or its sponsors.