Volume 6, Issue 4 — April 30, 2015
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Aeiforia Technos brAVe New World
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Earth Day is A-Okay!
By Raymond Kent Managing Principal, Sustainable Technologies Group
So Earth Day 2015 just happened. Did you miss it? Did you celebrate it in some way? Did you ignore it completely, roll your eyes, or give it a little head nod and say, “Oh yeah… Earth Day” and then go on with your life? However you recognized the event (or not), it happened. Why should we care? Well for starters sustainability is the in-thing — and not in the same way the paleo-diet is “in” right now or how gluten-free anything graces restaurant menus and supermarket shelves everywhere. Now in American and across the globe, people, governments, and corporations have an attitude that’s either positive or negative about the notion of sustainability, carbon foot print and global warming.
This year marked the 45th anniversary of the first Earth Day event. On that day (April 22nd, 1970), a young man who was chosen by Senator Gaylord Nelson (D – Wisconsin), organized what has become one of the most significant American movements in our country’s history. On this day in 1970, more than 20 million Americans took to the streets, parks, theaters, classrooms and demonstrated for a healthier, cleaner world. He did this before technology was able to connect globally at the click of a mouse button with good old fashioned shoe leather and a quick dialing finger. He and his staff of 85 people orchestrated this event which continues to grow. The impact of this event created a movement and the movement helped to launch the Clean Air, Clean Water and Endangered Species Act and helped to establish the Environmental Protection Agency by pushing the issues into the majority of public sentiment garnering the attention of lawmakers and the President of the US.
By 1990, Earth Day went global reaching over 145 countries and 200 million people. Recycling efforts came to the forefront of the public’s consciousness and the United Nations organized out of this the first Earth Summit in Rio de Janeiro. By the new millennium over 5,000 environmental organizations and 184 countries were involved now using the latest in technology – the Internet – to reach out and get the message heard that environmental stewardship wasn’t a luxury, it was a necessity. Where technology hadn’t reached yet, word of mouth, shoe leather, and even drum chains (Gabon, Africa) helped to rally the cause.
On the 4th anniversary in 2010, great challenges emerged including climate change deniers, big-oil money interests, well funded lobbyists and some complacency in the American public cause the collation to refocus their efforts and launch a climate rally and a renewed sense of commitment driving 40 million environmental service actions towards the established 2012 goal of A Billion Acts of Green and with the assistance of film director James Cameron, launched an initiative to plant over a million trees globally.
All of the significance of the last 45 years has found prominence in many avenues of our world including the green building movement and the meaningful rise of alternative fuel sources. As climate change impacts our daily life in an ever more pressing manner including record snow falls, extreme droughts, more powerful hurricanes, and other significant disasters one cannot help but to recognize the importance and significance of an event that happened 45 years ago. What I personally find most compelling is the global acknowledgement and participation in identifying and addressing environmental attitudes. To me it is one of the United States greatest exports and it cost us nothing and has gained us everything.
Where the impact is most evident lately is accessible in the rise and dominance of social media. Twitter had millions of Tweets mentioning the day and trumpeting events and engagement opportunities. On this day, corporations expelled their greenness touting their initiatives on reducing their carbon footprint. This is significant because the court of public opinion is a hyper critical and cynical population. They expect corporations who trumpet their environmental accomplishments to be truth tellers and they call them out if they try to green wash things. This puts corporations and politicians on notice that the will be truth in advertising and that there is an expectation that the environmental cause will be shouldered by everyone including companies and governments.
But let’s face it. Environmentalism has become more mainstream and ordinary and that is not a bad thing. It has created a more savvy public, brought new ideas to the table in terms of providing solutions to dwindling conventional energy sources, a raised two entire generations with the notion that this blue and green marble floating in space is the only home we have and we really do need to take care of it.
We in the ICT industry see much of these opportunities as we can be front line workers in the cause that started 45 years ago. Our data centric lifestyles and products bring the nimbleness and speed to which movements such as this can proliferate and ingrain themselves into everyday consciousness. Hopefully many in the ICT industry see the advantage and help celebrate Earth Day everyday in a meaningful way.
Raymond Kent is the Managing Principal of Sustainable Technologies Group, LLC specializing in technology systems for the performing and cultural arts, healthcare, Government, higher education, and corporate markets. He is a co-author of the STEP rating system and serves as the chair of the Technology Task Force for the STEP Foundation. Raymond received the 2012 InfoComm Sustainable Technology Award and is involved with the Center for Sustainable Practice in the Arts.
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On a Green Stage
By Midori Connolly AVGirl Productions
In our world, staging an event isn’t necessarily about putting someone on a stage for a performance, but the truth is that a large segment of our industry actually is doing exactly that. Although sometimes overlooked in the audiovisual industry, many AV professionals and much of the innovation for technology comes from the production and touring functions of our industry. And when it comes to sustainability, those theater people are solidly leading the charge.
From Broadway to London to San Diego (yes, my little hometown!), a collection of theaters and professionals are focused on decreasing the environmental impact of their productions. While many of the guides and resources that they are creating pertain to the building features or venue management of a theater, there are also several notable guides and reports that I found incredibly interesting as it pertains to AV technology.
The first resource that is really an outstanding place to discover exciting projects and ideas is the UK-based Julie’s Bicycle. (Funny name, but seriously good suggestions, case studies and guidance.) You can find the site here. In a few hours of exploration, I discovered some outstanding resources. While some were more on the capricious side (gym members using stationary bikes to generate power packs to be carried to a local show), there were great ideas such as FocusTrack’s PowerTrack. PowerTrack calculates lighting power consumption cue-by-cue and compile into a database for analysis and tracking over time… plus give insight into the performance of the system for quality. This site is a great way to find a wide variety of case studies and concepts to support green initiatives.
In the United States, the Broadway Green Alliance is the most notable organization for learning about greener production. BGA is most useful for finding resources on lighting. There is a fantastic page where you can look at a list of greener alternatives for various types of lighting instruments. Also, some great data is available on rechargeable batteries, which were successfully put into play during the 2008 Wicked season. The rechargeable batteries have 32 times less impact on the environment (global warming, air and water pollution) than disposable batteries throughout their lifecycle, and one rechargeable can replace 93 disposables. Plus, they will ultimately save $22,103.15 over five years.
While slightly less oriented to the live production/event side of the business, the Producers Guild of America offers a site called “The Green Production Guide.” The resources are many, including cost benefit analysis, best practices and even sample crew memos. It’s definitely worth a visit.
In addition to the more obvious information on relevant AV technology, these resources offer dozens of ways to learn about designing and building scenic components, responsible procurement, writing environmental policies, managing a tour with a focus on sustainability… truly the list goes on! Have fun finding some inspiration and ideas from our cousins in production. As it so often happens, the creative solution you’ve been looking for may be waiting where you least expect it. Leave a Comment
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MUSIC Group Buys TC Group
MUSIC Group has today announced the acquisition of TC Group, one of the largest group of companies in the professional audio industry. Headquartered in Denmark, and with offices all over the world, TC Group owns and manages some of the most acclaimed brands such as Tannoy, Lab Gruppen, Lake, TC Electronics, TC Helicon and TC Applied Technologies.
The addition of Tannoy, Lab Gruppen and Lake allows MUSIC Group to round out their professional install and touring sound offerings alongside Midas, Klark Teknik and Turbosound, while TC Electronics and TC Helicon represent the industry’s leading brands in the guitar effects and voice processing sector, and perfectly complement MUSIC Group’s Bugera guitar tube amplifier brand and highly successful Behringer prosumer division.
TC Electronic has also long been established as a leader in broadcast, studio, mastering and production processing, where it gained ultimate authority in loudness control and mastering. For decades now, Tannoy’s HiFi products continue to win “Best in Class” Awards, and as a result the brand has developed a huge following of audio enthusiasts around the world.
TC Group’s strong focus on product innovation and IP creation is further demonstrated by their TC Applied Technologies company, which is invested in cutting-edge semiconductor designs, networking and interface technology.
MUSIC Group founder and CEO Uli Behringer commented, “MUSIC Group stands for relentless focus on innovation, business transformation and overall IP creation. Since the acquisition of Midas, Klark Teknik and Turbosound, we have been continuously pursuing brands that complement the mixing console, processing and loudspeaker excellence offered by these historic brands. Throughout our search, TC Group has clearly stood out as the ideal match because of their world-class brands, impressive intellectual property, sterling reputation and first-class team of people. I am very proud to welcome the TC Group team into our family.”
Tannoy, Lab Gruppen and Lake will now join MUSIC Group’s prestigious Midas, Klark Teknik and Turbosound anchor brands to further strengthen MUSIC Group’s continued expansion into the professional A/V market. Aimed at delivering complete system solutions to Install and Touring customers, the combination of these brands represents an unprecedented range of choice for the most demanding of applications.
Uli Behringer continued, “We will invest heavily in positioning TC Group’s brands at the very pinnacle of the industry, as we have done with Midas, Klark Teknik and Turbosound, where we have invested over $100 million in highly automated and integrated manufacturing facilities, quality control systems and engineering resources, including a new Center of Engineering Excellence in Manchester, UK.
TC Group will now equally have full access to MUSIC Group’s extensive resources and advanced automated system platforms in such areas as product development and lifecycle management, engineering, manufacturing, supply chain and finance.”
TC Group’s CEO Anders Fauerskov responded, “We are very honored that during the acquisition process, some of the largest industry players were bidding for TC Group; however we have selected MUSIC Group as they represent the perfect fit in terms of strategic direction, overall synergies and company culture. Our team is thrilled to join MUSIC Group and open a new chapter for TC Group and its prestigious brands. With the incredibly talented people and massive resources of the MUSIC Group behind us, the team is excited to enter a new era of unprecedented innovation and growth.” Leave a Comment
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Vaddio Announces a New and Enhanced ZoomSHOT 20 POV Camera Vaddio has announced its latest point-of-view camera, the ZoomSHOT 20. Based on Vaddio’s ClearVIEW HD-20SE PTZ camera technology, the ZoomSHOT 20 is fully equipped with an advanced image signal processor, 20x optical zoom and native 1080p/60 high definition video. Manual pan and tilt positioning allow for simple, precise control.
The latest 1/2.8-Type Exmor CMOS high speed, low noise image sensor processor combined with the advanced ISP of the ZoomSHOT 20 provides exceptional low-light performance rated at 0.3 Lux making this camera ideal in low-light applications including house of worship, ProAV system integration, distance learning classrooms, live events, IMAG systems, UCC applications and more.
In addition to the advanced ISP, the ZoomSHOT 20 comes equipped with a 20x auto-focus zoom lens, providing a 63-degree wide to 3.47-degree, tele-horizontal field-of-view for a wide range of applications.
Like all Vaddio cameras, the ZoomSHOT 20 is designed to work with Vaddio’s Quick-Connect camera interface systems that allow integrators the ability to run power, video and control over Cat5 cabling. Full image color control is available for a built-in internal On-Screen Display.
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dnp Intros WVF Screen dnp just launched a new product in the rear projection product line for video wall cubes called the WVF. The dnp WVF Screen (short for Wide View FEL Screen) fills out the gap in the product range of the dnp Ultra Contrast Screen, dnp Cross Prism Screen, dnp FXS Screen, dnp CSI Screen and dnp Black Bead Screen. It’s available from 50″ to 80″ sizes.
The dnp Ultra Contrast Screen is the entry level screen offering, with a relatively high peak brightness but limited viewing angles. The dnp Cross Prism Screen, dnp FXS Screen, dnp CSI Screen and dnp Black Bead Screen are high-end products offering improved viewing angles.
The new dnp WVF Screen fills out the gap in between these two product groups, and with a peak gain of 2.0, a horizontal ½-gain angle of 38° and a vertical ½-gain angle of 21°, this new screen is perfect for small and mid-size display walls, where a superb image quality is required at limited costs.
The design of the dnp WVF Screen is, like all other dnp cube screens, based on an advanced Black Stripe lens technology, which absorbs the majority of ambient light, while transmitting the majority of the projector brightness. dnp is the only screen manufacturer offering this advanced Black Stripe lens technology.
The dnp WVF Screen is available in all sizes up to 1600×1200 millimeters, with a variety of Fresnel focal lengths to fit the actual projection engine optics.
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Christie Debuts Five New 3LCD D Series Projectors Christie unveiled five new 3LCD digital projectors today spec’d with brightness ranges of 6,000 to 8,000 lumens with a single lamp (and an optional 0.38:1 Ultra Short Throw lens). The D Series are all 10,000:1 contrast ratio and come in resolutions of XGA (1024×768), WXGA (1366×768) and WUXGA (1920×1200).
Christie D Series are what the company calls “whisper-quiet,” aimed at higher education, corporations, museums, houses of worship, government facilities and selected rental and staging environments. Christie’s totally new aesthetic is used on all five new D Series models.
The new Christie Connect option with Wireless USB option provides monitoring and collaboration capabilities in multi-user environments. Users also benefit from professional tools including HDRC-Liteloc for “stunning images” even as the lamp ages, and the new Advance Color Management system provides separate controls for hue, saturation and luminance to create lifelike images.
Christie D Series features include:
- Optional* Ultra Short Throw (UST) lens with a 0.38:1 throw ratio
- Portrait or landscape mode provides installation flexibility
- XGA, WXGA and WUXGA resolutions
- Single-Connect cable option: Christie OneConnect — via HDBaseT
- 3G-SDI (WUXGA only)
- Multiple lens options
- Third party control system integration via AMX and Crestron
Christie D Series ships in May 2015 and here are all the specs. Leave a Comment
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AVF Debuts Industry’s First SMART kapp Mobile Stand — Also Handles 80″ LCDs Audio Video Furniture (AVF) has debuted what is believed to be the SMART kapp’s first mobile stand. Dubbed the AVF SYZ84, the stand uses modern ball-bearing wheels that allow it to be easily moved all around a facility. The hollow, center-mounted column has grommets both in the top and bottom for passing cables inside — giving the stand a clean aesthetic and making it convenient to distribute all the connected cabling as well as power. Available in white & black metal it comes in two configurations, SYZ84-K (white only) and SYZ84-S/XL (white or black) and can mount either SMART kapp (42″ or 84″) as well as any monitor from 40”-84” — or, monitors weighing up to 160 pounds.
The adjustable monitor mounting bracket allows for height and pitch adjustments and is made of heavy-duty steel. Using 4″ wheels, the ADA-compliant AVF SYZ84 has a base design to allow access to the monitor without tripping over support legs.
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The World’s First 50 Gbps Digital Backplane Comes from Extron’s New XTP II Switchers Extron’s new XTP II CrossPoint matrix switchers claim the world’s first 50 Gbps digital switching backplane (think: uncompressed 4K).Extron says the XTP II enables the deployment of an AV system infrastructure with a switching bandwidth that exceeds the data rate required to distribute 4K/60 video with 4:4:4 chroma sampling at 16 bits per color. These matrix switchers can be configured with a variety of boards, including the new XTP II HD 4K PLUS input and output boards that support HDMI 2.0 and HDCP 2.2, a new family of XTP 4K fiber optic boards and endpoints, or any of the existing products in the XTP Systems family.
XTP II CrossPoint matrix switchers are engineered to exceed the bandwidth required by HDMI 2.0 and DisplayPort 1.3 signals. Three modular frames are available for 16×16, 32×32, as well as larger 64×64 I/O sizes, and can be configured with XTP II HDMI input and output boards, which offer the highest level of HDMI 2.0 performance with a full 18 Gbps data rate throughput at each port. The XTP II boards are also HDCP 2.2 compliant, ensuring reliable switching of encrypted, 4K video content. To streamline integration, all products within XTP Systems are compatible with one another. This enables complete end-to-end system solutions, and provides a wide range of possibilities for future system upgrades to support emerging video standards and formats.
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Extron Ships Room Scheduler Extron is now shipping the Extron Room Scheduling application. Extron says it has simplified the room booking experience by pairing standard TouchLink Pro touch panels with Microsoft Exchange to create a complete, easy-to-use solution. While competitive devices rely on additional scheduling software or external processors, TouchLink Pro touch panels only require free Room Agent software and Exchange to deliver a convenient stand-alone room booking solutions for any size facility. Users can reserve rooms from any Exchange-connected device, including their mobile devices, or from the touch panel itself. Since Extron Room Scheduling uses popular 5″ and 7″ TouchLink Pro touch panels, multiple mounting options are available, including on-wall, in-wall, as well as secure mounting to almost any flat surface, including glass or granite with the TLP Pro 520M.
Extron TLP Pro 520M, TLP Pro 720M, and TLP Pro 720T TouchLink Pro touch panels require no programming, as they simply operate as a client of Microsoft Exchange. Booking a room from the touch panel is as easy as tapping the “Reserve” button for the time you want. The intuitive interface clearly displays room availability and a timeline view of the room’s occupancy status for the rest of the day. In addition to the customizable touch panel interface, bright green and red LEDs within the bezel make it easy to see if a room is occupied or available, even from down the hall.
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HARMAN’s Crown Introduces XLS DriveCore 2 Amplifiers With Upgraded Features and FlexibilityHARMAN’s Crown Audio today announced the introduction of the XLS DriveCore 2 Series two-channel power amplifiers, offering a host of upgraded features including more flexible DSP band pass filtering, selectable input sensitivity, remote sleep mode trigger and sleek new styling.
Four new XLS DriveCore 2 models are available including the XLS 2502, XLS 2002, XLS 1502 and XLS 1002, with power ratings from 350 to 775 watts per channel at 4 ohms and 1100 to 2400 watts at 4 ohms bridged. Setting new performance and value benchmarks at their respective price points, Crown’s XLS DriveCore 2 Series amplifiers feature HARMAN’s exclusive DriveCore amplifier circuitry that combines high power output with exceptional energy efficiency, all under 11 lbs (5 kg).
Crown XLS DriveCore 2 amplifiers now offer a bandpass filter on each channel in addition to the previous low and high pass filters, enabling more precise DSP tuning. All models allow the front-panel LED indicators (except the clip and thermal indicators) to be turned off if desired, reducing distraction in dark venues. All the amplifiers have selectable input sensitivity of either 1.4 Vrms or .775 Vrms, facilitating their use in a wider variety of applications and enabling the amplifiers to be driven at full power no matter what the input is.
XLS DriveCore 2 amplifiers now offer a remote sleep modetrigger function, to reduce power consumption from a distance. The amplifiers also feature a display sleep mode that turns the display lighting off after a specified time. All models provide a security setting that disables the front-panel menu buttons; the menu is locked and unlocked by entering a simple button combination. In addition, a system reset function enables all factory settings to be restored.
Power ratings of the XLS DriveCore 2 models (per channel into 4 ohms) are as follows: XLS 2502, 775 watts; XLS 2002, 650 watts; XLS 1502, 525 watts; XLS 1002, 350 watts. All incorporate Crown’s DriveCore Class D amplifier design, which is the size of a postage stamp yet combines the amplifier driver stage into the power output stage along with additional audio-signal functions to provide remarkably efficient, cool-running operation that conforms to HARMAN International’s GreenEdge environmental initiative. All the amps are just 2U rack spaces high.
Crown XLS DriveCore 2 amplifiers can power 8- 4- or 2-ohm loads and can be bridged for 8- or 4-ohm mono operation. Additional features include:
- Peakx limiters that deliver maximum output while protecting the speakers
- balanced XLR
- 1/4-inch and RCA inputs
- touchproof binding post
- Speakon outputs
Crown XLS DriveCore 2 Series amplifiers will be available in June 2015 at prices ranging from $299 to $599. All the details are here. Leave a Comment
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Extron XTP Now Does Long Haul 4K Video Extension Over Fiber Extron has added fiber optic products to the XTP Systems family. The new XTP 4K Fiber input and output matrix boards, transmitters and receivers enable long haul extension of 4K video, multi-channel audio, bidirectional control, and Ethernet over one fiber optic cable. The XTP CP Fiber 4K I/O boards and XTP 4K Fiber extenders are HDCP‑compliant, and enable high performance transmission of computer and video resolutions up to 4K with 4:4:4 chroma sampling. Shared capabilities include support of data rates up to 10.2 Gbps, 12‑bit Deep Color, 3D content, and HD lossless audio formats. Extron’s proven EDID Minder and Key Minder technologies ensure quick and reliable signal switching and distribution. XTP matrix switchers can be configured with XTP Fiber 4K I/O matrix boards to support XTP fiber optic transmitters and receivers installed at remote endpoints.
The XTP fiber optic products are compatible with the XTP Systems family, and share many of the features and capabilities found on other XTP boards and extenders. For streamlined integration, the XTP FT HD 4K transmitter includes an HDMI Loop‑through with selectable audio control and enables embedding of analog stereo audio signals while the XTP FR HD 4K receiver provides selectable HDMI audio pass‑through, audio de‑embedding to digital S/PDIF or analog stereo audio outputs, and relays for environmental control at the destination. The XTP SFR HD 4K fiber optic scaling receiver also features Extron Vector 4K scaling technology to support modern and legacy display devices. All XTP devices are compatible with one another. This compatibility enables complete end-to-end system solutions, and provides a wide range of possibilities for future system upgrades to support video standards and formats of 4K and beyond.
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New Extron H.264 Media Player and Streaming Decoder Ships Extron is shipping its new SMD 202, the latest addition to the company’s H.264 Streaming AV product line. The SMD 202 is a compact, high performance media player and live stream decoder used in H.264 streaming applications. It provides the flexibility to present the signal from a locally connected AV device, decode a live streaming source, or play back media files from internal memory, removable SD card, local USB or network storage. The SMD 202 supports a wide range of container formats and streaming protocols, making it adaptable for use with a variety of encoded media. Advanced signal processing, scaling, and aspect ratio management supply high quality signals to AV displays.
The SMD 202 is adaptable to different network conditions and streaming requirements, offering both push and pull streaming configurations. Audio output signals are available as HDMI embedded audio as well as analog stereo audio, making it directly compatible with embedded display speakers or existing audio systems. An intuitive, interactive on-screen menu simplifies setup and source selection using front panel buttons or the optional handheld IR remote control. Designed for pro AV applications, the SMD 202 can be controlled using Ethernet, RS232, IR and wired IR interfaces.
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Crestron’s New Commercial Lighting Control Plan Crestron is changing the way lighting control systems are designed, specified, and installed with the new SpaceBuilder design-based solutions. Crestron says its SpaceBuilder is the fastest way to design, install and start up commercial lighting controls for any size building or system.
According to Crestron, the advantages of a SpaceBuilder system include:
- Faster quotes
- Faster submittals
- Comprehensive packaging and streamlined delivery system
- Simplified wiring and installation
- Fewer components and logistics
- Pre-programmed operations
- Faster commissioning and start up
- Seamless networking
With SpaceBuilder, lighting controls are designed on a space-first basis, reducing the complexity of building-first designs and saving time and money every step of the way. An online system filter helps even the novice designer to select the optimal Crestron system for their application. The accompanying automated configuration worksheets help to quickly complete the system design for a single space-type and can easily be copied for other similar spaces in the building. Designers no longer need to worry about knowing the product model numbers or technology specifications. All they need to know are the lighting requirements for the specific space.
In addition to improving efficiencies for the design community, SpaceBuilder simplifies the delivery and installation process for the contractor. Rather than searching through pallets of dimmers, sensors and keypads in a remote staging area, installers get one box for each room that contains all the components, technical information and wiring diagrams needed to complete the installation.
After installation, the contractor energizes the system and it immediately functions. Every Space Builder system arrives in its own box pre-programmed during production. It’s not necessary for a field tech or programmer to visit the site to program the system.
When it’s time to start up an entire building, SpaceBuilder systems network together seamlessly for master control, integrating with building management systems or property management systems. Organizations can also monitor and manage AV equipment, room scheduling, lighting, shades, climate and energy consumption from a single platform with Crestron Fusion enterprise management software.
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Panasonic Claims Lightest 3-Chip DLP Laser Projector with PT-RZ12KU Panasonic’s new PT-RZ12KU laser projector is a three-chip DLP that’s specified at 12,000 lumens at native 1920×1200 resolution with a 120 Hz frame-rate. Integrate with two DIGITAL LINK (HDBaseT) ports, the PT-RZ12KU is aimed at the rental and staging markets but can be used in auditoriums, bars and even lecture halls. One unique features with the projector is it allows for vertical, horizontal and tilting 360-degree projection because of the laser light source.
The PT-EX12KU incorporates two 380-watt lamps to get the 12,000 lumen spec with a 4000:1 contrast ratio. The image quality is also supported by the Pure Color Control function and full 10-bit image processing system. The Pure Color Control function independently controls the light intensity of yellow coloring. This provides rich overall color expression while maintaining brightness. It’s also integrated with an Eco Filter which minimizes the need for filter maintenance for up to 12,000 hours. It weighs in at just under 95 pounds.
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Auralex Now Shipping ProKit-1 and ProKit-2 ProPanel Kits Auralex Acoustics is now shipping its ProPanel ProKit-1 and ProKit-2 kits — all-in-one acoustical room treatment systems designed to address the acoustic and aesthetic needs of the small and medium-sized project studio (ProKit-1) as well as the most demanding professional mix/mastering environments (ProKit-2).
Consisting of beveled-edge 2’x4’x2” ProPanel fabric-wrapped Class A absorptive fiberglass panels, these cost-effective kits are highly effective at controlling critical mid- and high-band frequencies. The ProKit-1 and ProKit-2 kits also include 2’x4’x2” mitered-edge ProPanel corner treatments that provide low-frequency absorption, which is critical in small and medium-sized rooms. Based on the 2” thickness of the ProPanels included in both kits, there is a greater surface area of coverage per panel over other competing offerings. The Auralex ProKit-1 and ProKit-2 room treatment systems are available in two standard fabric choices, sandstone or obsidian, and include all mounting hardware.
ProPanel ProKit-1:
- For rooms 12’x12’ and up
- Two M224 SST & OBS
- Seven B224 SST & OBS
ProPanel ProKit-2:
- For rooms 18’x20’ and up
- Six M224 SST & OBS
- 12 B224 SST & OBS
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Clockaudio Ships Retractable Motorized Ceiling Microphone CCRM4000 Clockaudio is now shipping its CCRM4000 Retracta Motorized Ceiling Microphone. Designed for use in boardrooms, conferencing and nearly any audio conferencing application, the CCRM4000 offers an alternative to installations that can’t have any microphones on the table, but still need high quality sound. The unit comes virtually pre-assembled and allows you to bring the microphone closer to the participant, which contributes in getting more direct sound and less of the room. In addition, the retractable unit enables the microphone to completely withdraw back into the ceiling when not in use, leaving the room aesthetically pleasing and ready for other functions.
Clockaudio ships the CCRM4000 master units complete with a ceiling mounted IR sensor, remote control, cardioid microphone with knuckle joint and magnet, ceiling bezel with locking ring and jockey wheel, 18VDC power supply unit, ceiling tile mounting bracket and safety cable. Slave units are also available.
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Atlona Ships Three More 4K Products Atlona has announced that three of its new products unveiled last month at ISE in Amsterdam, the AT-UHD-M2C-BAL converter, AT-UHD-SW-52 switcher, and AT-UHD-SW-51 switcher, are already shipping.
The AT-UHD-M2C-BAL is a 4K-compatible converter which extracts and down-mixes Dolby and DTS audio tracks and provides balanced analog audio output in stereo or mono. It uses a web-based interface allowing remote control of mode, volume and EQ. The converter also processes audio content while allowing 4K/UHD video to pass through from the source to a display.
The analog signal output from the converter (+4dBu) is provided via a five-wire captive-screw connector on the rear panel. Rear panel connections also include ports for IP (RJ45) and RS232 and it includes remote settings for volume, mute, bass and treble. Audio on the converter’s HDMI output, also on the rear panel, is configurable to provide either the original multichannel content or the down-
mixed channels.
The front panel of the AT-UHD-M2C-BAL provides an HDMI jack for source input and a USB jack for installing firmware updates. LEDs indicate the format of the audio source (PCM, Dolby HD, DTS-HD, etc.). The device is HDCP compliant but Atlona claims it can be switched on/off for use with non-compliant displays and devices.
The AT-UHD-SW-52 and AT-UHD-SW-51 are part of the AT-UHD-SW-5 Series, Atlona’s first line of HDMI switchers that support 4K/UHD video @ 60 Hz. Both switchers are spec’d to have 10.2 Gbps bandwidth and an internal web server enabling control of EDID, HDCP, and audio settings. The switchers can be manually switched, set for auto-switching or controlled via IR, IP, or RS232 formats. Both switchers support multi-channel digital audio formats up to Dolby TrueHD and DTS-HD Master Audio.
The AT-UHD-SW-52 offers an audio return channel and provides dual mirrored HDMI outputs without HDBaseT. The switcher has front panel control for source selection and volume level and it is spend to do audio de-embedding with rear panel outputs for S/PDIF and balanced stereo audio.
The AT-UHD-SW-51 is positioned as a “cost-effective” version that includes web-enabled control of EDID and HDCP, audio de-embedding with stereo output (unbalanced) and S/PDIF output.
Both switchers are 1U rack-mountable in a half width enclosure. More information is here. Leave a Comment
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Extron Ships New DTP CrossPoint 84 Presentation Matrix Switcher ModelExtron’s new DTP CrossPoint 84, a new model without an integrated control processor or amplifier, is now shipping. The compact 2U DTP CrossPoint 84 includes an integrated 8×4 matrix switcher with 4K inputs and outputs, two built-in independent scalers, integrated DTP and XTP transmitters and receivers and a comprehensive audio DSP.
The DTP CrossPoint 84 can immediately be put to use for integration with all of the latest 4K capable graphics cards, 4K cameras, and the ever-growing number of displays with 4K and UHD native resolutions. The DTP twisted pair inputs and outputs provide extraordinary flexibility in how and where AV and control signals can be distributed. Integrators can choose from the industry’s most complete offering of digital twisted pair transmitters and receivers with single and multi-input models available for furniture and wall-mount applications. The twisted pair inputs and outputs can also 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 and converted to deliver the highest quality image content for display. With Extron’s exclusive digital technologies, integrators can easily connect sources and displays and set up switching ties, with plug-and-play simplicity, automatic device negotiation, and nearly instantaneous switching delivered with Extron EDID Minder, Key Minder and SpeedSwitch.
Integrators can customize system designs and mixes any way desired, with fully configurable EQ, filters, dynamics, extensive matrix mixing options and more. If a large number of microphones or speaker destinations are needed, the DTP CrossPoint 84 offers a unique digital audio expansion port that links the internal DSP to a DMP 128 for additional inputs and outputs, or to add AEC to a conferencing system.
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Crestron Ships RL 2 Crestron’s RL 2 is the company’s second generation Microsoft Lync and Skype for Business collaboration system.
The RL 2 codec claims a number of new features including a fully integrated DigitalMedia receiver, native Crestron Fusion connectivity for room monitoring, multiple audio input configurations, and versatile mounting options. Crestron RL 2 includes a TSW-style touch screen controller. Integrators can add the optional custom elements required for your application: display, camera, microphone and speakers.
Crestron RL 2 features include:
- Auto-switching between VGA, HDMI, and DM video sources without a separate video switcher outside of a Lync session
- Analog microphone inputs
- The ability to control everything in the room from one touch screen, including AV devices, lighting and shades
- The ability to integrate with Crestron Fusion software, for system-wide monitoring
- Crestron DigitalMedia input
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Barco Updates ClickShare Via Software Barco has performed a software update to the ClickShare product line (both the CSM-1 and CSC-1) that adds an auto-layout function to the CSM-1 Base Unit. This allows two people to share content on-screen at the same time.
You may already know that a CSC-1 kit comes with four Buttons, and four people can already share content simultaneously with it — something that the CSM-1 could not do, until now. With the new software update, a CSM-1 kit (which includes 2 Buttons) now enables two side-by-side windows on the screen.
In addition, now the ClickShare can fully mirror the screens of Apple devices using the CSC-1 Base Units. This means that whatever you see on the mobile device’s display — including data, images and video (yes, video) — is simultaneously shown on the central meeting room screen, without the need for an Apple TV or a specialized app. Full mirroring of Samsung Galaxy devices with ClickShare was already possible — so this update is focused on doing the same for iOS.
The update also added two other features to ClickShare:
- The option to disable the wireless access point of the ClickShare Base Units and integrate the Base Units in your corporate network. This feature allows the ClickShare Buttons, or the mobile devices using the ClickShare apps, to connect to the ClickShare Base Unit via the corporate wireless infrastructure, instead of via the wireless network of the Base Unit itself. This option lets you avoid adding additional access points in your Wi-Fi environment.
- A new signal strength modulation function, which limits the reach of the Base Unit. This function not only allows more ClickShare units to be integrated in a limited space – the section of the building that contains a lot of meeting rooms – but also prevents connections from outside the room.
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Listen Ships New IR Solutions Listen Technologies has expanded its IR technology offerings with the new LT-84 ListenIR Transmitter-Radiator and LA-141 ListenIR Extended-Radiator, as well as the new iDSP IR Receiver. In creating these new IR solutions, Listen Technologies says its engineers considered all aspects of how the product would be used, focusing on the user experience, ease of dispensing, inventory management and battery management at the venue.
Listen claims the new LT-84 ListenIR Transmitter-Radiator is the only product of its kind that provides complete, gapless coverage in a variety of venue sizes. The LT-84 provides twice the coverage as similar products — one unit covers an area up to 30,000 sq. ft. (2700 sq. m), and it is the first product of its kind to feature delay compensation. It is the only two-channel Transmitter-Radiator with up to four frequencies (2.3 MHz, 2.8 MHz, 3.3 MHz, or 3.8 MHz), eliminating the need to purchase additional transmitter-radiators. Simple to install (with the included mounting hardware and legislative compliance kit), it was designed to blend in with the design of any environment without disrupting a room’s design — in fact, it was developed with input from architects and interior designers. Up to four LA-141 Extended-Radiators can be added to the LT-84 for additional coverage. And, when coupled with iDSP IR Receivers, the experience includes enhanced management and storage tools for venues and exceptional listening for end users.
Listen also expands its iDSP (Intelligent Digital Signal Processing) offerings with a new IR version, joining the previously introduced iDSP RF 72 MHz receivers (LR-4200-072 Intelligent DSP RF Receiver and LR-5200-072 Advanced Intelligent DSP RF Receiver). The iDSP IR receiver features an integrated neck loop/lanyard for end users; streamlined dispensing, collecting and care; and environmentally friendly advanced battery technology.
The iDSP IR Receiver offers precise clarity with 20 dB less hiss than comparable products. The integrated neck loop/lanyard improves the experience for people who have hearing aids and cochlear implants with telecoils. iDSP IR receivers are the smallest of their kind, making them easier for venues to store, charge, and distribute; it also makes it easier for end users to wear and operate. Additionally, iDSP IR receivers use lithium-ion battery technology with battery management (same as a smartphone), eliminating the cost and hassle of traditional AA alkaline batteries.
For venues, the benefits of iDSP IR receivers are obvious. They streamline the care and management process — iDSP IR is easier to care for, store, and distribute than comparable products from other manufacturers. Additionally, since the iDSP IR receiver comes with an integrated neck loop/lanyard (making it compliant with the legislative requirement to provide neck loops for hearing aids with telecoils), the complication and guesswork are taken out of achieving legislative compliance.
There are also benefits for end users: iDSP IR is easier for end users to check out from venues, it’s easier to operate, and it’s easier to wear. Also, iDSP IR receivers can be programmed (using free iDSP software) with unique display names, like Theater, Chapel, Classroom, or more. Additionally, the iDSP software allows venue inventory management and a convenient USB port makes it easy to set up software and apply updates.
System components include:
- charging tray, which can be mounted in several ways
- charging case
- optional cable management system
- earphones (with leatherette cushions, or hard plastic, solving certain sanitary issues)
- log book
- free setup/inventory software and signage
Two headphone jacks accommodate neck loop/lanyard or two sets of headphones (could be shared if needed).
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Hitachi Intros New PTZ Cameras Hitachi America’s Digital Media Division and Security Solutions Group is introducing the PTZ Series Full HD Camera Series. The PTZ Series cameras support clear and lively video conferencing, video recording and net broadcasting, and are aimed at a variety of applications that include boardrooms, classrooms, auditoriums and houses of worship.
The PTZ Series is comprised of six models: the VZ-HD3600A; VZ-HD3650A; VZ-HD3700A; VZHD3780A; VZ-HD4000A; and VZ-HD4900A. All of the PTZ Series cameras feature an optical lens for Full HD with 10x zoom, while the VZ-HD4000A and VZ-HD4900A also have a 25x zoom. Four of the six models offer a wide horizontal viewing angle of 70 degrees, making them perfect for classroom recording. A direct drive motor pan/tilt mechanism provides non-distracting smooth and quiet functionality.
For needs in large venues, the PTZ Series features seven-daisy-chain control for low-light shooting. The PTZ Series also offers 32 preset memories for pan/tilt/zoom and other settings using the remote control unit, and up to 127 presets using external control via RS-232C or RS-422. Various digital video interfaces are available, including 3G-SDi, HD-SDI and DVI-I.
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Peerless-AV Shows New Desktop Mounts Peerless-AV just launched a new product called the LCT620A Desktop Mount. Aimed at education, commercial office space and gaming applications, the LCT620A Desktop Mount can be customized to fit users’ needs, with the ability to be configured in single, double, triple and quad arrangements. The LCT620A uses polished aluminum articulating arm(s) with chrome and gloss black accents.
Peerless-AV claims that the LCT620A Desktop Mount improves workstation ergonomics by allowing displays to be located at the perfect working angle. You can check it out here. Leave a Comment
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IC Realtime Unveils 4K Video Surveillance LineIC Realtime is debuting a lineup of 4K video surveillance products this week that includes a 360-degree x 360-degree Virtual PTZ camera and NVRs.
As you likely already know, Ultra HD 4K display has 3,840 x 2,160 pixel resolution with an expanded color space, in a 16:9 format, and uses progressive scanning at 25/30 Hz. This equates to four times the resolution of 1080p HDTV. All IC Realtime 4K products comply with the UHD standard.
IC Realtime’s dual-sensor 24-megapixel Virtual PTZ (pan, tilt, zoom) camera together with the company’s proprietary IC720 software app, gives the user the ability to pan from floor-to-ceiling and completely around the camera — including zoom and freeze options — in a smooth fashion, free of blind spots or distortion. This yields fields-of-view that until now required several cameras to achieve. Navigation is achieved by simply pointing the display device in the desired directions, or via finger touch of the display screen. The app (available as a free download here) is presently compatible with iPad and iPhone. Versions for Android and a variety of mobile devices, tablets and laptops, are in development. List will be $3,000.
IC Realtime is now offering 4K in a 360-degree dome as well as several standard wide-angle lens varieties. Each claim 4,000 x 3,000 resolution, 4K @ 15FPS recording and is powered by the IC720 software platform which works with a smart device’s built-in sensors and gyros to permit users to review events from inside of the action. Additional capabilities of the cameras include infrared night vision and audio. The 360-degree 4K dome camera (model # ICIP-360L12) has list of $1,598. The wide-angle versions are expected to range from $900 to $1,400 list and will be available in bullet, dome and box styles.
IC Realtime’s 4K NVR is the next step in the evolution of high-performance 4K resolution network video recorders. This ONVIF-compatible unit boasts an Intel i7 quad-core processor, can store up to 96TB internally and is capable of outputting 4K from 4-channels to 128. List for the NVR (model # NVR-8256DR) starts at $13,998.
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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).
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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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