Volume 5, Issue 6 — June 23, 2014
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brAVe New World Aeiforia Technos
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Future Tech, Pro AV and Sustainability: 3D PrintingHear this: We are moving into an era where technology assumes a seamless place in our daily life, both professionally and personally. My washing machine talks to me via my phone. My cat can be located on my GPS. It is a time of wonderment and exploration as our lives increasingly resemble those of the Jetson family. With this progress, we develop the ability to streamline the processes in our personal and professional life. There are more tools than ever at our fingertips to create efficiency and reduce waste… which are the very core of sustainability. Thinking of future tech, what are some of the implications for sustainability in our business life?
The first concept that gets me pretty excited is 3D printing. I’m beginning to think there isn’t an AV shop around that shouldn’t have its own 3D printer. I was inspired by my friends at OnLocationEngagements, which is a beacon technology used for distributing content at events. The housing for the company’s beacons is really neat and tight and as I inspected it, I noticed that it was the perfect size and shape for their circuit boards. Curious, I asked where they were having them manufactured and what the cost was, and the answer of “we do it ourselves with a 3D printer” shouldn’t have surprised this lover of future tech – and yet it did!
For all of the odd binds AV pros face that require our best MacGyverrific solutions, being able to design and manufacture a custom “thing” is an incredible concept. So imagine the implications of small shops being able to fabricate their own supplies. Small runs of needed items, with no shipping and no waste. The process of CNC manufacturing generally uses a reductive process, where you take a bunch of raw material and shave away to get what you need. 3D printing is additive, which means you add the materials until you get your final product — much less waste generated. Finally, choosing PLA as your raw material/filament, means a bioplastic derived from corn that has a low toxicity score on the MDS. And has the added benefit of being biodegradable.
In true sustainable business practice, there are financial implications here too. To buy the most entry level printers, you can spend less than $1,000. Or, you can go to a shop and pay for a small batch of printing. The raw materials can easily be less than $100, depending on the run size. Next, plug it into a power source fueled by alternative energy and we are beginning to make our bacon sizzle (or vacon if you really want to minimize impact).
In addition to 3D printing, there are a couple of other futuristic technologies that are not only exciting because of the cool factor, but also for their potential benefit to sustainable practices. I’ll cover those in the next few months, because if there’s one thing this girl loves, it’s living a Jetson daydream!! Leave a Comment
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Have a Coke and a Smile
By Raymond Kent Managing Principal, Sustainable Technologies Group
How many of your workforce are part of the Millennial Generation (born between 1977-1994)? How many of your client’s workforce is in this category? This generation now makes up one third of the current workforce and will make up three-quarters by 2025. Most of this group has never known a time without cable television, cell phones and many other technologies that would never have crossed Gen-X or Baby Boomers’ minds at their young age. Technology is so pervasive in their lives that 97 percent own a computer, 94 percent own a cell phone, and 56 percent own some sort of MP3 player. Instant messaging, selfies, news gathering from the Internet and social media are their Ether. Why is this important, you ask? Because these connected kids are not only wired to the hilt, but also thrive on social justice, having more in common with the”civic minded” G.I. Generation than the “me” generation of the Gen-Xer’s or the counter culture of the hippie generation.
This generation is bent on reuse, recycling, shedding excess, and minimizing material possessions. They are a maker generation but with technology and information at their fingertips. They value the environment and demand social justice and equality and companies have taken notice. For decades, companies have been touting why their product was “good for you”. Now they tell you how it is good for the world and the earth and the millennials are listening. There are many examples but one major one is Coca-Cola. It has often been said that there are two things that no matter where you travel in the world people will recognize — The Bible and Coke. With this much influence in the world, it is fascinating that Coke can be so forward thinking to reach their market on their customer’s terms.
For example, Coke has been investing in next generation energy management and performance systems as a corporate best practice. This isn’t just a feel good campaign but has a healthy positive effect on their bottom line. As I have written about in many previous articles, Wal-Mart, Starbucks, Apple, and others are also rising up. So what is Coke up to? For starters they are using deep energy retrofits which are producing some surprising results. Employee productivity, engagement, increased retention and a lowering of absenteeism are just a few. One of the biggest advantages however is the attraction of the Millennials to work there.
Case in point, Coke recently moved its Canadian headquarters out of the burbs and into downtown Toronto which helped achieve its energy performance goal and many added benefits. Their aggressive work-at-home policy (sorry Yahoo) has reduced the amount of square feet required per worker. They have accommodated the transients with hoteling stations and reduced the square footage of the existing space per employee. Additionally Coke has deployed a smart building technology strategy that reduces energy demand on HVAC, lighting, audiovisual, and IT and by retrofitting an existing building have taken advantage of the embodied energy within the structure instead of having to rely on new construction.
They have found that the Millennials want to work for these types of companies bringing quite a lot of brain power with them. Having a lower carbon footprint is a major selling point. Millennials also tend to live in urban areas relying more on public transportation, bicycling to work or simply walking. They believe that a healthy work environment directly affects their ability to perform and the science backs them up.
Recently (April 2014 – Next Generation Energy Management: A Roadmap to the Next Level of Performance) the Rocky Mountain Institute and CoreNet Global did a research study that identified nine key drivers that create and enable an increased demand for business strategies that include next generation energy management and performance. This includes 1) Energy Cost Savings, 2) Risk Mitigation and Management, 3) Workplace Transformation, 4) Sustainability, 5) Stakeholder Demand for Sustainability, 6) Capital Availability, 7) Smart Building Technology, 8) Healthy Buildings, and9)Electricity Grid Evolution. In this study, key metrics were identified that demonstrate not only the value of energy efficiency on the bottom line but on the environment, and in how a company is perceived in society.
It is a wonderful thing to watch the corporate world move to reach to this demographic and how this demographic has brought technology, efficiency, and a social conscience to corporations. As you look around your own company you might find similar attitudes with the younger generation and engage them to help you communicate with your clients on how your core business and services in the ICT industry can help them attract and retain the Next Generation with energy efficiency in mind. Leave a Comment
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Sennheiser Previews Optional Accessories For Its TeamConnect Stress-Free Audio Conferencing SolutionSennheiser previewed new accessories for its new TeamConnect conferencing system at InfoComm 2014, which claims simplicity for stress-free audio conferences. The new accessories, which are scheduled to launch late summer, include the SL Mic Hub 1 and the MEB114-S TC and increase the overall speed of deployment while delivering clear and intelligible audio quality.
TeamConnect, which is available now in the U.S., is suitable for a wide range of applications in government, healthcare, education, hospitality corporate and other vertical markets. The new SL Mic Hub 1 will make it easier to integrate a conferencing system within multiple meeting rooms, while the MEB114-S TC is a high quality, custom microphone specifically designed for TeamConnect.
With the new TeamConnect accessories, users will be able to combine up to four MEB114-S TC microphones with one SL Mic Hub 1, reducing potential cable runs by as much as 80 percent. The new microphone hub will prevent users from having to wire each individual MEB114-S TC microphone across a room to the TeamConnect Central Unit, since each microphone is able to connect to the SL Mic Hub1 underneath the meeting table.
The SL Mic Hub 1 distributes clear and intelligible audio to the TeamConnect Central Unit via a single Cat5 cable. Logic signals are sent directly from the SL Mic Hub 1 to the TeamConnect Combox, which also mounts underneath the table.
Here are all the details.
Here’s a rAVe video from InfoComm. Leave a Comment
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Hitachi Intros Four New Ultra Short-Throw Projectors Hitachi today introduced its CP-AX2503, CP-AX3503, CP-AW2503 and CP-AW3003 Ultra Short Throw projectors — four high-performance models that are ideally suited for delivering large images in limited spaces. The new 3LCD projectors offer improved image quality, flexible connectivity including powered focus, and wireless networking plus a host of useful convenience features.
The CP-AX2503 and CP-AW2503 deliver 2,700 color and white light ouput with XGA and WXGA resolution, respectively, while the CP-AX3503 and CP-AW3003 offer 3,300 and 3,600 color and white light output with XGA and WXGA resolution, respectively. All four projectors include Hitachi’s High Dynamic Contrast Range feature that provides a unique ability to alter contrast when ambient light is present and yet preserve the integrity of the image. Additionally, Hitachi’s exclusive Accentualizer technology enhances sharpness, gloss and shadow detail for more realistic image quality while providing greater depth of field.
All four models can be used in tabletop mode, or wall mounted. All provide a full complement of inputs including two HDMI inputs, two computer HD-15 inputs, three USB inputs for use with a USB memory stick, wireless adapter or mouse plus component, composite video, audio and mic A/V jacks. All the projectors have computer monitor and audio outputs. In addition, all four models have RS232C and RJ-45 Ethernet ports. An optional wireless adapter lets users connect their computer to the projectors via a wireless network. The projectors’ PC-less presentation feature enables users to project images directly from a USB thumb drive, eliminating the need to connect a computer.
For more information on Hitachi projectors, click here. Leave a Comment
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Kramer Adds Four-Input Multi-Format HDBaseT Transmitter Kramer Electronics is introducing the SID-X2N, an HDBaseT four-in-one twisted pair transmitter from the Digital Step-in Family, a multi-format input group of products. The unit includes four input types: computer graphics video, HDMI, DVI and DisplayPort. In addition, the SID-X2N includes an unbalanced stereo audio input and output.
The SID-X2N works as a stand-alone unit together with an HDBaseT receiver (such as the TP-580RXR/WP-580RXR) using RS232 commands over a twisted pair cable. A single twisted pair cable carries both data and control and a local ‘Step-in’ switching button allows the user to take control of the main display. Switching between inputs is available when working with a HDBaseT receiver using RS232 commands.
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Crestron Intros New FlipTop Crestron’s new FlipTop Touch Screen Control System (FT-TSC600) works with a 3-Series control system and includes an integrated 5-inch TSW touch screen. In addition, the FT-TSC600 provides connectivity, cable management, and control in a tabletop design.
Recessed when not in use, the FT-TSC600 provides a hidden solution for accessing cables, connectors, power outlets, and room contral (the 5” color touch screen is integrated in to the top of the FlipTop. Store cables neatly out of sight when not in use. And, as with all FlipTop models, the FT-TSC600 is modular and can be customized to provide every type of cabling and connection you might want at your conference table, from AV and network to power. All cables retract into the FlipTop compartment, and the touch screen can be hidden away safely when not in use. All FlipTop models are available in black anodized or brushed aluminum finishes.
Here are all the specs. Leave a Comment
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Casio Intros Lamp-Free Projectors Aimed at Hospitality Market Casio America has a new lineup of Signature projectors aimed at the hospitality industry. All of them include Casio’s LASER & LED HYBRID Light Source, which combines a laser, fluorescent element and LEDs to generate light (it’s 5th generation), lasting an estimated 20,000 hours.
Weighing in at 8.6 pounds, the new Signature projectors offer a variety of features including remote operation capable through Crestron Roomview, Intelligent Brightness Control, wired LAN projection and MobiShow. The projectors are 3D capable have three types of video and audio inputs, as well as HDMI, RGB and RS232C terminals.
Equipped with 2 GB of built-in memory, the new LampFree Signature projectors allow many file formats, such as PDF and QuickTime, to be stored in the projector for laptop-less playback. They can also display content from a PC by connecting the projector and PC through a USB cable, as well as a variety of languages — 10 new in main (total 23) and eight new in USB (total 18) including Dutch, Norwegian, Polish, Finnish, Turkish and Portuguese.
These projectors will list for $919.99 and ship in July. Here are all the specs. Leave a Comment
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Extron Introduces New Compact Four Input Scaler Extron’s new IN1604 HD is an HDCP-compliant four-input scaler that features three HDMI inputs, a universal analog video input, and an HDMI output. It is designed for installation under conference tables and in lecterns to provide localized switching support for sources.
The IN1604 HD features a scaling engine that can scale HDMI and analog video signals to a common high resolution output. It provides high performance 1080i deinterlacing and Deep Color processing to deliver optimal image quality. With Extron EDID Minder, Key Minder, and SpeedSwitch, integrators can easily connect sources and a display with plug-and-play simplicity, automatic device negotiation, and nearly instantaneous switching.
The IN1604 HD delivers audio integration capabilities that include HDMI audio embedding and de-embedding, flexible audio switching with two individually assignable analog audio inputs, switching transitions, gain and attenuation adjustments for each analog input, output volume control, and selectable audio muting. The IN1604 HD also features options for remote control and operation, including front panel controls and on-screen menus, USB, RS232 and even a contact closure with tally output.
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Clary Icon Introduces OneScreen SoftServe, a Collaboration Hub In The Cloud Clary Icon’s new OneScreen SoftServe is a cloud-based collaboration hub for video, audio and web conferencing, whiteboarding, presenting, innovating, selling and more.
Clary says that the OneScreen SoftServe removes the barriers to workflow and bridges the gaps between disparate technologies so that teams don’t have to be concerned with technology, they can simply choose their tools, focus on their work, and can keep business growing. Additionally, OneScreen SoftServe deploys with a live, on-demand Screen Skills Guru button, so help is always at the touch of a finger.
OneScreen SoftServe offers the ability to choose from a variety of collaboration applications, allows seamless transitioning from tool-to-tool, and supports displays, tablets, laptops, and mobile devices, delivering a simpler barrier-free workflow. All from a simple, central launch screen. Its platform agnostic design opens up options; it does not force organizations to use a specific application. Existing SIP and H.323 video conferencing options as well as Web conferencing options such as Microsoft Lync, Cisco WebEx, Adobe Connect, and more, are supported and instantly accessible. OneScreen SoftServe deploys with OneScreen Connect video conferencing service and provides unlimited multi-party calls up to 99 participants on OneScreen Connect or WebRTC and up to four using SIP and H.323. Unlike other applications, it offers resizable video and content windows, presence indicators, unlimited screen, data and application sharing, and advanced meeting record, playback, and sharing.
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Casio Intros 1.7” Thin LED-Based Projectors Casio America’s new SLIM projectors, weighing only five pounds and only 1.7 inches thick, feature Casio’s proprietary LASER & LED HYBRID Light Source, which combines a laser, a fluorescent element and LEDs to generate light. Now in its fifth generation, Casio says the improved light source offers a 30 percent increase in light output and 20,000 -our lifespan for the projectors.
Compatible with Crestron Roomview, the SLIM line includes a feature Casio calls Intelligent Brightness Control (maintaining the same brightness over time), wired LAN projection and MobiShow (which is Casio’s wireless presentations system but it’s proprietary and compatible with no other wireless system on the market) and HDMI, VGA and RS232C ports.
There are six models that range from 2,500 to 3,000 lumens and can be ordered as either XGA or WXGA resolution.
Full specs on each of the SLIM projectors is here. Leave a Comment
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Barco Intros Bundled LCD video walls
By Gary Kayye rAVe Founder
Dubbed the Instant VideoWall solution, Barco is offering customers an all-in-one package (aka pre-packaged) that simplifies the configuration process dramatically and saves time and money.
The Instant VideoWall is the first of Barco’s next-generation, fit-for-purpose LCD visualization platforms. These are designed to offer high level image quality and performance, simplified installation and maintenance and 24/7 mission-critical reliability. It caters to the visualization needs of control rooms as well as of collaboration and planning, as well as research and development applications.
Barco’s all-in-one architecture comes in standard 2×2, 3×2 and 4×2 tiled LCD set-ups, features an ultra-narrow bezel — as narrow as 3.5 millimeters with the recently announced Overview OVD and KVD series. The all-in-one solution also comes with Barco’s display management software.
Optionally, the packages include Barco’s integrated IP video streaming for basic sensor and collaborative applications or Barco’s TransForm family of video wall controllers to enable pixel-accurate display of multi-sensor information.
Barco’s planned display product and networked solution developments will be gradually integrated into its Instant VideoWall all-in-one bundles. Currently, the extension with Barco’s new HTML5 content aggregator (X2O) is in development, thus integrating the bundles in Barco’s comprehensive cross-campus visualization architectures.
The OverView OVD and KVD series, Barco’s new tiled LCD video walls, feature a number of innovations — including automatic color and brightness calibration (SenseX), optional external redundant power supply, Energy Star 6.0 compliance, and integrated IP video streaming — that ensure the highest uniformity across panels, optimize uptime, and reduce total cost of ownership.
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Digital Projection Unveils 4K Laser Illumination Combination Projector Digital Projection International’s new INSIGHT LASER 4K projector is a 20,000-hours, no-lamp laser projector that has a spec of 12,000 ANSI lumens.
Aimed at simulation, visualization, entertainment, house of worship and large-screen applications, DPI says the INSIGHT LASER 4K has been developed with a ‘Set it and Forget it’ directive, delivering a simpler user experience. And, by bypassing regular lamp replacement cycles, nearly all lifetime costs for the INSIGHT are incurred at time of purchase.
Engineered within a lightweight and rugged all metal chassis, the INSIGHT 4K series offers the benefits of a laser light source (primarily, longevity – 20,000 hours of life) being projected through a phosphor wheel, yielding 12,000 lumens of brightness. The INSIGHT 4K also delivers full 4K 3D display capability. Dual HDMI and DVI inputs enable the latest high-bandwidth video delivery. A full range of 4K lenses, offering throw ratios from 1.13:1 to 4.98:1, with extensive vertical and horizontal lens shift, is available as well. DPI says this projector should be available by the end of the year
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Atlas Sound Adds Two New Power Conditioners Atlas Sound has released two new power conditioners that expand its Atlas Power product category. The AP-S15HR and AP-S15RTHR are half width rack 15-amp power conditioners designed to protect critical rack mounted components from electrical surges and spikes.
The AP-S15HR is a half width rack power conditioner that features six total outlets, four-rear panel switched outlets, one-rear panel un-switched outlet, and one-front panel un-switched outlet. The unit includes circuit breaker protection at 15-amps, with a front panel mounted circuit breaker reset, radio frequency interference filtering, an Earth ground fault indicator. A removable IEC power cord allows the cord to be switched for a smaller or longer size based on need.
The AP-S15RTHR includes all of the features found in the AP-S15HR with additional benefits. The major difference is the Remote Activation circuitry. This Phoenix style connection enables the four-switched units to be remotely activated using a push button or key switch wall plate. Additionally, the AP-S15RTHR includes electromagnetic interference filtering and a 24VDC 2000mA DC output that could be used to power Atlas Time Saving Devices. Units can be mounted in a full width rack using a rack mount adapter available from Atlas Sound.
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ESP/SurgeX Partners With Verdiem for Building Energy Management ESP/SurgeX today announced a partnership with Verdiem to address the plug load energy waste problem plaguing commercial buildings. This partnership combines Verdiem’s Surveyor software, that can reduce an organization’s energy and print-related operational costs by up to 30 percent, with ESP/SurgeX’s power protection and diagnostic technology, which has been proven to lower service costs.
The partnership gives dealers an intelligent energy management tool to drive tangible savings for their customers, differentiate themselves from competitors, and bridge the gap to more comprehensive IT management services. The software will be bundled with the ESP Next Gen Power Conditioning System (PCS), Digital QC power filter and future power protection products. It complements ESP/SurgeX’s other energy management offerings to provide customers with the most comprehensive solution in the industry.
Surveyor supposedly drives cost out of desktop computing environments by giving organizations the ability to centrally enforce energy efficiency polices and manage the power states of distributed PC fleets. The software identifies and tracks the usage and energy consumption of every desktop PC and allows IT to control PC power consumption by department, location, device type, employee and more. Surveyor also extends enterprise quality wake functionality to allow IT to gracefully wake up powered off devices to better manage system wide software updates, patches, and routine maintenance. In addition, Surveyor uniquely monitors end user print activity across an entire printer fleet, compiling actionable data that highlights inefficiencies directly related to how end users interact with their print environment. It provides visibility into print volumes and costs, across all equipment-networked and non-networked.
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Barco Intros Entry-Level Narrow-Bezel LCD displays for Tiled Video WallsThe new Barco OverView EVD-4621 is designed for use in non-24/7 environments, including meeting rooms, stores, advertising, and communications. This new model adds to Barco’s existing narrow-bezel LCD display portfolio, which now offers a solution for every application and budget.
The OverView EVD-4621 is a 46” LCD that uses a 1080p native display with a 180-degree viewing angle, and low energy consumption and is aimed at the tiled video wall market as it has a narrow bezel of only 1.9 mm or 0.075” (right, bottom) and 3.8 mm or 0.13” (left, top).
With a typical luminance level of 450 cd/m², the OverView EVD-4621 is well suited for low light environments. More specs are here. Leave a Comment
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Extron Now Shipping HDCP-Compliant Annotator with DTP Extension Extron is shipping the Annotator 300, a hardware-based annotation processor that allows a presenter to draw, point, or type over live presentations using a touch display, graphics tablet or a keyboard and mouse. The HDCP-compliant Annotator 300 includes HDMI and DisplayPort inputs, a universal analog video input and three simultaneous outputs including two HDMI and a DTP twisted pair output. It also features advanced Extron video signal processing with a high performance scaling engine and fast, reliable switching. The DTP twisted pair output extends HDMI and bidirectional control signals to a DTP receiver over a single shielded CATx cable up to 330 feet (100 meters). The Annotator 300 offers a wide range of annotation tools and controls, all easily accessible by the presenter using an intuitive on-screen GUI.
The Annotator 300 is compatible with a wide variety of popular touch displays and graphics tablets. Simple icons and menus provide quick access to essential annotation tools for drawing freehand or lines, adding rectangular or elliptical shapes, typing text, highlighting an area of the presentation, and more. Additional annotation functions include the ability to use a touch display as a whiteboard, zoom and pan within the image, and freeze a live image. Annotated images can be captured and saved to internal memory, a removable USB flash drive, or a network location. Images can also be sent to a network printer.
The scaling engine in the Annotator 300 scales HDMI, DisplayPort, RGB, component and standard definition video to a common high resolution output. It provides high performance 1080i deinterlacing and Deep Color processing to deliver optimal image quality. EDID Minder, Key Minder and SpeedSwitch ensure fully reliable image display and virtually instantaneous switching speeds for HDCP-encrypted content. For integration flexibility, the outputs of the Annotator 300 can be configured as separate Main and Confidence outputs so that the presenter can access the annotation GUI on a local monitor, while the audience sees only the annotated presentation.
The DTP twisted pair output can be used to extend HDMI with embedded audio, and control to a DTP receiver behind a flat-panel display on a wall or above a ceiling-mounted projector, with the receiver powered over the same shielded CATx cable. Integrators can choose from a complete line of DTP 330 receivers for transmission distances up to 330 feet (100 meters) or DTP 230 receivers for up to 230 feet (70 meters), to accommodate distance requirements of specific applications. The DTP output can also be used for sending video and embedded audio, plus bi-directional control signals to any HDBaseT-enabled display.
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Middle Atlantic’s Legrand Introduces Turn-Key Meeting Room Systems for Wire and Signal Management Middle Atlantic Products Legrand will launch a set of turn-key meeting room systems during InfoComm 2014. Legrand Meeting Room Solutions include InteGreat Series products that have built-in flexibility to manage cabling over the “last meter” to the point of use. These products include InteGreat Series Transition Channel, InteGreat Series Cable Management and InteGreat Series A/V Table Box. They are not only designed to work seamlessly with each other, but they also integrate with a wide variety of Wiremold wire and cable management systems such as the Evolution Series, OFR overfloor raceway, work surface modular power andVista Point5 Columns.
The Evolution Series Flat Screen Wall Box is available in four-gang and two-gang options that offer complete flexibility for any combination of connectivity devices. This box supports a digital display and features unique removable device modules that support industry-standard device plates that can be detached and removed for easier installation and to facilitate moves, adds and changes. The four-gang box holds two device modules. The two-gang version has one module with storage space for active A/V components.
The Evolution Series Ceiling Box fits above a false or permanent ceiling to provide storage for electronic A/V and IT equipment, and to support a projector, if required. The six versions include three units with a projector mount, and several options for electrical circuitry. These boxes are designed for conference rooms, classrooms, training facilities or anywhere a projector and/or A/V equipment is needed and where large racks or furniture storage are not practical.
The Evolution Series poke-thru devices offer a flush, all-metal cover assembly that allows easy device access with unique spring-loaded slide cable egress doors. These open-system devices accept industry-standard communications and A/V devices from various manufacturers.
The OFR Series Overfloor Raceway System is a small, low, narrow and ADA-compliant overfloor raceway system. It’s designed for relocatable or permanent installations where access through floors and ceilings is not an option.
Work Surface Modular Power Kits are ideal for meeting rooms that serve multiple functions, such as presentation, training and collaboration, and where presenters and attendees need access to power, no matter what the room layout. These kits are sized to outfit 5’ or 6′ tables with plug-and-play power and include table boxes, power whips, mounting clamps and cable covers.
The Vista Point5 Column is a floor-mounted pedestal that provides easy access to A/V connections. Its unobtrusive design and can be mounted as a table leg, which clears space on top of the conference room table while allowing for easy access to power, data and A/V connections and keeps the floor free from cords and cables.
These officially launch at InfoComm, but you can see the details here. Leave a Comment
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Aurora Multimedia Ships Ceiling Tile SpeakerAurora Multimedia is now shipping the SKR-22T Ceiling Tile Speaker. This new speaker fits in a standard 2×2-foot Drop Ceiling Tile format and is only 2.2″ thick. The ultra light weight speaker is 25 watts RMS at 4 ohm. It also comes in a 70v/100v version (SKR-22T-XFR). Both models also fit in a 60×60-centimeter opening for international standards.
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Barco Brings New Narrow Bezel LCDs With Embedded Processor to InfoComm Barco will launch a new range of tiled, ultra-narrow bezel LCD video walls at InfoComm. The Full-HD (1080p) 46” and 55” LCD panels, with light outputs spec’d at 700 and 500 cd/m², address the needs of customers in a wide range of applications, such as control rooms, broadcast, signage, meeting rooms and rental & staging. The OverView OVD-4621, OverView OVD-5521 and OverView KVD-5521 also offer what Barco says is the industry’s smallest bezel size — 3.5 mm.
Barco is introducing its unique SenseX automatic color and brightness calibration technology that’s integrated into this line of displays. The SenseX solution uses built-in sensors within each panel to accurately detect the brightness and color performance of each screen in real-time. Then, using Barco’s unique algorithms, SenseX automatically calibrates each LCD panel to the desired levels to achieve a uniform video wall display. The calibration process can be run in the background without disrupting the image on the wall, resulting in a very uniform and stable image over time.
The Overview OVD-5521, OVD-4621 and KVD-5521 are also the first ultra-narrow bezel LCD displays that can optionally be powered by an external, redundant power supply. Even if the external power supply is located in a separate equipment room far away from the video wall (to minimize both screen heating and noise), there is no loss of image quality. Furthermore, as the hot-swappable redundant power supply makes maintenance less disruptive, it optimizes continuity in mission-critical operations. In addition, as personnel can service and replace the power supply without entering the active control room area, security and clearance in sensitive operations are simplified. This new family of LCDs also meets the most stringent requirements in terms of energy-savings: any wall of any size is Energy Star 6.0 compliant and consumes less than 0.7 mW in low power mode.
For control room, signage and meeting room applications, the LCD displays have an embedded application processor that can decode IP video streams, crop scale, and loop-through video signals. The loop-through feature saves cabling and supports Ultra High Resolution to be displayed across multiple units. The LCD displays are also equipped with an OPS slot to allow a Slot-in PC module to further boost their processing capabilities, if required. Further add-on features will be added via software upgrades.
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Mackie Extends SRM Professional Line with Two New Dual-Woofer DesignsToday Mackie launched two new additions to the SRM family of powered loudspeakers — the SRM750 1600W Dual 15-inch High-Definition Powered Loudspeaker and the SRM2850 1600W Dual 18-inch Powered Subwoofer.
Both new models include a 1600-watt amp platform paired with custom transducers housed within professional-grade, internally-braced all-wood cabinets.
The new Mackie SRM750 and SRM2850 will be available soon and list for $1,499.99 and $1,999.99, respectively. More information is here. Leave a Comment
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HARMAN’s JBL Professional Adds New Control 45C/TAdding to its Control Contractor Series, HARMAN’s JBL Professional has introduced the Control 45C/T coaxial ceiling loudspeaker, a two-way, 5.25-inch loudspeaker that offers what JBL says is “extremely consistent” 120-degree broadband pattern control featuring the company’s Radiation Boundary Integrator (RBI) technology.
The Control 45C/T is an in-ceiling professional loudspeaker designed for environments that can benefit from extremely wide bandwidth and very consistent coverage from a speaker with a small footprint. JBL says the tweeter sound is “well-controlled by a large waveguide,” while the low-frequency sound projects through specially designed apertures in the RBI. This design allows for a seamless integration of coverage over a wide bandwidth from coaxially- mounted drivers. The result is that the sound character is extremely consistent throughout the listening space with little variation from location to location.
The large backcan on the Control 45C/T, along with the low-frequency driver design, provides extended bass response for a warm full-bodied tone. The system’s 5.25-inch woofer features a polypropylene cone and pure butyl- rubber surround for long life. The coaxially mounted 0.75-inch soft dome features ferro-fluid cooling for enhanced power handling and reduced power compression.
The Control 45C/T is switchable for use as either an 8-ohm low-impedance speaker, or as part of a 70V/100V distributed loudspeaker system.
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Crestron Intros 4K DM Receiver Crestron’s new HDBaseT compliant DM-RMC-4K-100-C-1G is a signal interface and control solution for a single HD or 4K display device in a DM system. A single cable connects the DM-RMC-4K-100-C-1G to a DM switcher or transmitter, or to an HDBaseT source, transporting video, audio, control, networking, and power signals all through one category cable. Crestron says a single HDMI output port supports video at resolutions up to 4K (4096×2160). The DM-RMC-4K-100-C-1G can be gang-mounted beside an Ethernet jack or an electrical outlet equipped with proper dividers. Multiple receivers can be mounted in the wall all around the room and in 4″-deep floor boxes.
The DM-RMC-4K-100-C-1G includes built-in RS-232 and IR control ports to allow programmable control of the connected display device. It also provides an alternative to conventional control methods by harnessing the CEC (Consumer Electronics Control) signal embedded in HDMI. Through its connection to the control system, it also provides a gateway for controlling the display device right through the HDMI connection, potentially eliminating the need for any dedicated control wires or IR emitters.
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Blonder Tongue Intros MPHDE-50 Blonder Tongue’s new MPHDE-50 is a modulator that streams HD video via networks using an Android-based network media player and single-channel HD MPEG-2 encoder in a single 1-RU enclosure.
The MPHDE-50 accepts component, HD-SDI, HDMI (unencrypted), VGA and composite video and simultaneously outputs a single QAM, ASI or IP output. The entire process is managed and streamlined via the media player. The MPHDE-50 includes an HDMI connection between the media player and encoder. Both units are powered by a single 12 VDC power supply integrated in the chassis for a superior performance. 120 VAC line powering is standard, with -48 VDC power optional.
The media player output is 1080i and there are two USB ports on the front panel and a 10/100Base-T Ethernet port on the rear panel for remote management. An API is included for native applications, and the media player features a 4GB Flash internal memory and SD card port for additional storage.
The encoder — Blonder Tongue’s HDE-CSV-QAM — provides a GUI-based monitoring and control via standard Web browsers, and real-time Dolby Digital audio encoding is supported.
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Crimson AV to Add to DSA Series of Spring-Loaded Monitor Arms at InfoComm Crimson AV told us today it will add to its DSA Series of spring-loaded monitor stands specifically designed for challenging commercial AV applications at InfoComm next week. Aimed at the hospitality, entertainment, retail, education, healthcare facilities, houses of worship and digital signage markets, the stands are meant for cost-conscious buyers of ProAV gear.
The new DSA Series are articulating monitor arms can be used in landscape or portrait orientation and can accommodate monitors and accessories weighing up to 30-pounds and include VESA compatible mounting up to 100x100mm. Once set in the chosen position, tilt and rotation mechanisms can be locked in place and the monitors will remain in the selected position until physically unlocked and moved to a new position.
There are four models:
- DSA11 is a single monitor, single link mount for monitors sized from 10-32”
- DSA12 is a single monitor, dual link mount for monitors sized from 10-32”
- DSA21 is a dual monitor, single link mount for monitors sized from 10-32”
- DSA22 is a dual monitor, dual link mount for monitors sized from 10-32”
All models in the DSA Series feature heavy-duty spring mechanisms to accommodate a wide range of monitors and attached accessories and arms are available with a variety of attachment points including Edge clip, Flat base, Through-hole, and Vertical pipe-mounted adapter styles.
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ClearOne Adds 4:4:4 Digital Multimedia Streaming to Lineup ClearOne’s new VIEW Pro is a 4:4:4 multimedia streaming box that claims lossless compression. Content can be distributed via IP to virtually an unlimited number of displays, and VIEW Pro is compatible with ClearOne’s StreamNet technology for auto discovery and control of all networked StreamNet products.
ClearOne’s claims the VIEW product line is differentiated in the market by providing a complete AV distribution solution that can scale to any project size, from light commercial to stadium. VIEW AV encoders, decoders, amplifiers and Ethernet switches provide complete flexibility and scalability of networked audio and video, perfect for corporate communications, hospitality and entertainment, education, telemedicine, houses of worship, digital signage and more.
The included VIEW Virtual Matrix Software displays a simple snapshot of the entire system on a single screen, as well as providing simple source and destination selection and control options in Windows, Android and iOS for StreamNet encoders and decoders. Users have control access from any number of input devices, including wall touch-screens, desktops, laptops, tablets, and other mobile devices.
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Extron Ships the Top-of-the-Line Presentation Matrix Switcher Extron is now fully and completely in the digital media switching market with the availability of its DTP CrossPoint 84. This compact presentation matrix switcher is a complete AV system in one box, including a 4K matrix switcher, two built-in independent scalers, integrated DTP and XTP signal extension, a mono or stereo amplifier, audio DSP and an integrated a built-in IP Link Pro control processor.
The DTP twisted pair inputs and outputs allow AV and control to be distributed and sent anywhere you can run CatX cable and they can be used to connect to any display with an HDBaseT input, or tie into a centralized, facility-wide XTP System to add local room-based AV systems. A high performance scaler is paired to each of the two DTP outputs, so that incoming source signals can be optimized to deliver the highest quality image content for display. The DTP CrossPoint 84 also includes Extron EDID Minder, Key Minder, and SpeedSwitch for easy integration of sources and displays.
The integrated professional-grade audio DSP technology in the DTP CrossPoint 84 is unparalleled in the AV industry, based on the same Extron ProDSP technology in the highly regarded DMP 128 and DMP 64 digital signal processors. Integrators can customize system designs and mixes any way desired, with fully configurable EQ, filters, dynamics, extensive matrix mixing options and more. A unique digital audio expansion port links the internal DSP to a DMP 128 for additional inputs and outputs for supporting a large number of microphones or speaker destinations, or to add AEC to a conferencing system. The DTP CrossPoint 84 can also be linked into a DMP 128 on a Dante network for even greater system expansion possibilities. In addition to the built-in DSP, a built-in mono or stereo 100 watt amplifier is included, featuring the same Extron core technologies found in the ENERGY STAR qualified XTRA Series that delivers very high energy efficiency plus professional grade audio performance.
The DTP CrossPoint 84 features a built-in Extron IP Link Pro control processor, with the advanced features, processing power, and breakthrough technologies found in the standalone Extron IPCP Pro 350 control processor. The DTP CrossPoint 84 allows complete, customizable control of an entire AV system, including all source devices and displays, plus room functions. It is very intuitive and easy to configure with the latest version of Global Configurator software, which includes powerful, advanced features such as conditional logic, local variables, macros, and controller groups for combining with additional IP Link Pro processors to create large control systems. The purchase of an Extron LinkLicense with the DTP CrossPoint 84 allows a tablet or laptop to serve as the primary control interface for the AV system.
Here are all the detailed specs, as well as a video that will teach you all about it – (and shows it only takes 15 minutes to set-up). Leave a Comment
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Earthworks Debuts IML Installation Series with LumiComm Touch RingThe LumiComm Touch Ring series of mics are designed for permanent table top installation. Seamlessly integrated into the microphone, the LumiComm Touch Ring consists of a dual-color LED light ring and a touch sensor output, providing integrators the ability to custom-assign function and LED color with a media control system.
The IML microphone is a back-electret condenser that features a cardioid polar response and a flat 30Hz-30kHz frequency response, allowing orators to maintain the same intelligibility at the front and sides of the microphone without a reduction of high frequencies.
IML models come standard with RF shielding, cardioid polar pattern, a 4.5″ body, black finish, touch sensitive surface, and dual-color (red and green) LED light ring. They are available with 3″, 6″, 10″ or 12″ goosenecks.
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ClearOne Adds 512×512 Sound Reinforcement Audio Matrix
ClearOne has launched the CONVERGE MatrixSound Reinforcement Distribution and Processing System enabled with Dante networking. Available in Q4 2014, this new system leverages the utility of existing Ethernet networks for the routing and distribution of networked audio, supporting up to 512×512 uncompressed channels for audio matrix mixing.
ClearOne’s CONVERGE Matrix works with CONVERGE Pro and SR units connected into a network through CONNECT Dante, without requiring any hardware changes in the CONVERGE units, to enable a flexible modular approach. ClearOne says the unit is easy to manage, provides complete system redundancy, and leverages a hybrid systems approach with room endpoints, shared DSP processing, and centralized DSP matrix routing with distributed resources. This solution from ClearOne increases the scalability and reliability of networked voice and sound applications without any distance limitations, and is suitable for small, medium, and large scale projects.
Common uses for CONVERGE Matrix include sound reinforcement and distribution at airports, transportation hubs, universities, stadiums, casinos, entertainment venues, amusement parks, houses of worship, shopping malls, convention and expo centers, auditoriums, corporate buildings, healthcare facilities, hotels and aboard cruise ships.
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Steve Hix Debuts New Company at InfoComm Dubbed Circle Technology for BYOD ProAV Solutions
By Gary Kayye rAVe Founder
Circle Technology, a Vancouver, Washington-based company formed by InFocus Systems founder Steve Hix has announced the debut of CircleHub and CircleBox, two new wireless, Internet-free presentation system solutions that stand to revolutionize the way groups present and share information.
CircleHub and CircleBox are screen sharing solutions installed with software compatible with Windows 7 and 8 OS. This proprietary software creates an instant access point to direct screen share in a local environment to other mobile devices using the Circle Viewer App. The CircleHub can share a presentation with up to 15 mobile devices, and the CircleBox can share with up to 40 devices. Bringing your own device (BYOD) to a meeting to view the presentation or sharing content to a classroom has never been made easier.
There are two software applications provided by Circle Technology: Circle Host, which acts as a local access point to allow our Circle Viewer App to connect. The Circle Host Software is compatible with Windows 7 and 8 operating systems. Circle Viewer Software is available for free as an app to download for free on your mobile device, both at the Apple App Store and the Android Market, or comes preinstalled on all Circle Displays.
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Mitsubishi Intros 60” Slim Display Wall Cube Mitsubishi’s newest display wall cube is in the form of a 60” Slim Cube with a “near-zero bezel.” The rear-projection LED display cube measures only 20.5 inches deep, which is approximately 26 percent slimmer than Mitsubishi Electric’s similarly sized, conventional rear-projection LED display cubes. Additionally, depending on how it is installed, the footprint depth of the cube frame stand can be as shallow as 15.2 inches.
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Extron Ships New IN 1608 IPCPExtron is already shipping its new IN1608 IPCP with built-in Extron IP Link Pro control processors. The IN1608 IPCP is a scaling and presentation switcher, together, that includes an HDCP-compliant, multi-format video switcher, Extron’s scaling engine, an integrated DTP transmitter and receivers for signal extension up to 330 feet (100 meters), a mono or stereo amplifier, DSP audio processing, and an advanced control processor that is expandable.
The IN1608 IPCP features a built-in IP Link Pro control processor, with the same features, processing power, and technologies found in the standalone Extron IPCP Pro control processors. The IN1608 IPCP delivers high-speed processing and control port capacity for complete, customizable control of an entire AV system, including all source devices and displays, plus room functions. Simply connect an Extron TouchLink Pro touchpanel to the built-in Gigabit Ethernet switch to create a complete AV control system.
The IN1608 IPCP is can be configured with Extron’s Global Configurator software and features conditional logic, local variables, and macros as well as scalability with Controller Groups, a unique feature that allows an IN1608 IPCP to be combined with additional IP Link Pro processors to create a large-scale control system.
With the purchase of an Extron LinkLicense with the IN1608 IPCP, a tablet or laptop can serve as the primary control interface for the AV system. A benefit of LinkLicense is the ability to use Extron GUI Designer software to design interfaces for specific user roles in an organization. LinkLicense works seamlessly with Extron’s TouchLink for iPad app, and allows an interface to be duplicated to many additional devices. It simplifies deployment of AV system control for BYOD with a single license purchase per system and no per-user fees, and allows a standardized BYOD strategy for AV control across an organization.
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IED Intros GLOBALCOM EN54-16 Compliant SystemInnovative Electronic Designs has launched GLOBALCOM platform designed to meet the criteria for EN54-16 compliance.
The heart of the EN54-16 compliant GLOBALCOM system is the 5400ACS Announcement Control System. This integrated announcement controller contains all of the intelligence to manage an entire system of emergency communication stations, digital zone manager amplifier units, and other network peripherals. The 5400ACS manages the system in compliance with the EN54-16 standard, performing overall supervision and reporting of equipment faults plus any ongoing alarm conditions.
IED will additionally be offering Digital Zone Managers, the 5404DZM and 5432DZM, that provide line level audio outputs to paired four-channel amplifier units and manages up to 32 paging zones as assigned from the 5400ACS as well as providing backup amplifier switching. Three new 4-channel amplifier models 5414AMP, 5434AMP, and 5454AMP, will also be available and will offer 100 watts, 300 watts or 500 watts per channel at 100V output. Additionally IED will be offering two digital communication stations. The 5416CS includes 16 programmable buttons and is available with either a gooseneck or handheld microphone. The 5450CS features a fully programmable touch screen interface and is also available with either a gooseneck or handheld microphone.
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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 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 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
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Copyright 2014 – 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 |
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