Volume 8, Issue 3 — March 11, 2015
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Microsoft Shows Up To ISE
By Scott Tiner rAVe Columnist
Last summer one of the biggest stories (non-stories) was the large, vacant booth from Microsoft at InfoComm. It was almost as if they planned to release a product, but it was not ready. By the time that ISE rolled around this winter, we had already heard of the Surface Hub, but this show was their real coming out party to the AV world. How the party went depends on who you ask.
rAVe’s founder Gary Kayye wrote a column that essentially asked whether this is really anything new. At least three other companies have similar products, likely cheaper prices and certainly better brand performance than Microsoft. I do agree with Gary on each of those points, but I look at the Surface as a truly unique product.
First, I think Microsoft has hit a chord with those of us in higher ed, who think about multi-touch screens. For starters, it is pretty rare to have a classroom where a multi-touch screen would be of any use. The situations that are advertised and written about never really occur. We have had a variety of touch screens and none have taken off. The main culprit is the software. Whether you are SMART, TouchIT technologies or Sharp, learning the software that goes along with these monitors is simply too much of a hassle. If a faculty member wants to write on a board, they don’t want to have to mess around with a computer to do it. They want to grab a pen and write. Despite their promises, I have yet to see a screen that just does it. In addition to the software, all of these screens are simply too small for higher education. Even at a small liberal arts college, most of our classrooms are too big for these monitors. Finally, the design of all these boards puts someone in the front of the room, passing down knowledge. From the classroom to the boardroom, we are moving away from this style of instruction to much more collaborative work.
This is where Microsoft is going to find the Surface Hub to be a huge hit. You should clearly note that they are including the word “Surface” in the name. If you read last month’s column you already know that I think the Surface 3 is a huge hit for Microsoft. The integration this product has with the Surface is beautiful. Built in MiraCast allows you to wirelessly connect any Surface (or any MiraCast device) with just a couple sweeps of the finger. Oh, speaking of sweeps, did you notice that all you have to do in order to power on the Surface Hub is wave at it? More about that later. So, back to collaboration. Now you put several people in a room, all with their Surfaces and they can annotate, share and display their work, seamlessly and in a much more collaborative mode than the “sage on the stage” mode.
What about simplicity? Not something Microsoft has been known for in the past. Yet, you can tell that simplicity was a key factor in their development of this product. It is all one unit, and for basic functions, only needs a power connection and a network connection. As I mentioned earlier, walk into the room and wave at the Surface Hub, and it turns on. A very simple screen asks you whether you want to Call, Whiteboard or Connect. The call function is Skype for Business. The built in cameras and microphones allow you to start your call with ease. The whiteboard function is powered by OneNote. Again, if you have not used OneNote, you really need to put it through its paces. A great piece of software that you will find powerful and useful immediately. The nice integration into the Surface Hub is a plus, but again leads to the “sage on the stage” mentality that I think we are moving away from. Perhaps it could be used as a whiteboard in small groups, and perhaps that is why Microsoft included the feature, but I don’t think it is a main selling point. The third feature, Connect is what allows you to wirelessly connect your device. This is the collaboration point, where multiple people in the room can share content. These three features are 95 percent of what our conference rooms provide. This is the first product I have ever seen that I would consider installing in a room, with no other technology (no dedicated computer, no touch panel, no auxiliary cameras). So, when you consider price, an important consideration will be all the “extras” you are not adding.
So, it appears that Microsoft has developed a product that is simple for the end user. What about for the integrator? This is where there is going to be pushback. I fear that many integrators are not going to be interested in the selling the product because they won’t see the markup, or the future revenue from it, like they would a full AV install. I think this is where IT companies are going to eat our lunch. They can sell these easily to the clients they already work with, and essentially sell it as a computing device that needs no integration with AV. If you are an AV/IT integration firm, then I highly recommend you look deeper into this product. The skills your company has will be able to make money from the initial sale of the product, to the integration into the servers at the business. The product gives you a great opportunity for current revenue and service contracts.
What are your thoughts? Would you install this as the only piece of technology in your conference rooms? How about as the technology in your active learning spaces? Or, has the blue screen of death scared you away for ever? Leave a Comment
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Via Will Debut an Android-Based Sub-$200 Media Player at DSEVIA Technologies just told rAVe that it will announce a line of commercial-grade Android digital signage players at DSE 2015, including the VIA ALTA DS 2, which runs dual displays in extended mode and outputs 4K on a single display.
The VIA ALTA DS Series features a choice of single and dual display Android-based media players for managing multi-display deployments (in an affordable way). Applications range from digital sign and menu boards to Digital Out of Home Advertising (DOOH) across a broad spectrum of retail, hospitality, entertainment, transportation, corporate and entertainment environments.
The VIA ALTA DS 2 is compact fanless Android media player which offers dual independent Full HD screen support as well as these features:
- 1.0GHz dual core VIA Elite E1000 Cortex-A9 SoC with a high-performance 2D/3D graphics and video engine that supports Open GL ES 3.0 hardware acceleration and simultaneous multiple Full HD video playback
- Dual-screen support with optional second HDMI port
- Extended and independent screen content support
- 2GB DDR3 SDRAM and up to 16GB eMMC Flash memory onboard
- Two HDMI-out ports; two USB 2.0 ports; two mini-USB 2.0 ports, one Gigabit Ethernet port; Audio-out/Mic-in; one SD card slot
The VIA ALTA DS is a fanless system with a single output as well as these features:
- VIA Cortex-A9 SoC with advanced 2D/3D graphics and HD video playback capabilities
- 1GB DDR3 SDRAM and up to 16GB eMMC Flash memory onboard
- HDMI and VGA (optional) ports; four USB 2.0 ports; one 10/100 Ethernet port; Audio-out/Mic-in,
- Auto power on when plugged
- Optional Wi-Fi card
Both VIA ALTA DS systems are available with a signage software solution pack featuring Android 4.3 as well as the VIA Smart ETK comprising a number of APIs, including Watchdog Timer (WDT) for safeguarding against system crashes, WOL, RTC wake-up, and a sample app. A full set of software customization services that speed up time to market and minimize development costs is also available. For customers looking for large-scale network signage and kiosk deployments, VIA offers cloud-based device management support for remote monitoring, control, and silent OTA software updates for both OS and apps.
All the tech specs are here and they will be priced starting at $180 US for the VIA ALTA DS and $195 US for the VIA ALTA DS 2. Leave a Comment
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Barco Launches New Indoor 4mm and 6mm LED Modules Barco just added two new indoor LED displays to its lineup aimed at digital signage retail and advertising. Designed for fixed indoor installation in fashion retail, automotive retail, banking or transit advertising applications, the V4i and V6i feature 4mm and 6mm pixel pitch, respectively.
Just like the other V-series LED displays, the V4i and V6i are managed and controlled by the dedicated V-series Toolset (VTS) application software. The VTS comes with an intuitive interface for easy display management and set up. Advanced options — such as brightness, gamma and color temperature control — and the display configuration tools make the V-series an excellent choice for basic LED display applications. Customers can choose from front or back serviceability.
All Barco V-series displays are supported by the DV-100 LED image processor and equipped with Barco’s Athena scaler . Designed for full flexibility, the DV-100 also supports new standards like 3G SDI, HDMI and DisplayPort, in addition to supporting standard inputs up to (dual) HD-SDI.
The Barco V4i is here and the V6i is here. Leave a Comment
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DT Research Launches MA Signage Multi-Screen Media Players DT Research just announced a new line of digital signage players called the MA Multi Screen Appliance series. The so-called “rugged” and compact embedded system players are packaged with the intuitive WebDT Content Manager (WCM) software suite, which includes a menu board design tool, Menu Board Editor, for a turn-key digital signage package to quickly deploy menu boards, transportation signage, and other multiple screen applications.
The MA Signage Appliances provide multiple video connections with 2 to 7 HDMI ports (depending on the model) for up to 1080p or 4k high resolution. The MA1363C/1363B includes the Intel Celeron/Core i7 CPU, integrating 3 video out connectors with 3840×2160 (@24Hz) or 1920×1080 (@60Hz) resolution in a fanless package weighing less than six pounds, while the MA1367C/B also uses the Intel Celeron/Core i7 CPU, but it integrates 7 video out connectors with 3840×2160 (@24Hz) or 1920×1080 (@60Hz) resolution, packaged in a sealed chassis with an external fan for protection from airborne contaminants. The MA1352/1356 is powered with the Intel Celeron Quad Core CPU and has 2 to 6 video out connectors housed in a solid-state, fanless design weighing less than three pounds and the MA102/104 has an ARM CPU with an Android operating system and can power 2 or 4 screens with 3840×2160 or 1920×1080 resolution to each screen.
DT Research’s products all use their WebDT Content Manager (WCM) 6.2 Pro software for remote management of content and hardware functions. Bundled with all WebDT signage appliances, WCM offers an easy-to-use interface for organizing, scheduling, and distributing content, and supports numerous media formats (e.g., images, videos, Flash, remote URL’s, RSS, executable applications, ZIP, and Microsoft PowerPoint). Flexible screen layout options with multiple zones and layers enable a multi-screen video wall to be divided into multiple areas with different content in each zone to mix images, text, and real-time video through an RTSP or MMS stream, or through an optional video capture card. This management software allows quick updates over a network connection for real-time or scheduled content playback and automatic content download recovery to prevent downtime. The newly released WCM 6.2 Pro now offers a powerful Menu Board Editor (available for download online), enabling efficient menu board design, enhanced player management interface, extended browser support, and fully frame-synchronized multi-screen video playback with frame-synchronized audio/video. The Menu Board Editor offers a tool to streamline the layout and scheduling of menu board content with templates and plug-ins for fast deployment.
All the tech specs for each player are on the company’s website here. Leave a Comment
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Extron Adds New Architectural Models to USB Extender Plus Series Extron just launched new models to the USB Extender Plus Series, a family of products that extend signals from USB peripheral devices located up to 330 feet (100 meters) away from the host computer using a single CATx cable. The USB Extender Plus AAP fits into a double‑space Architectural Adapter Plate – AAP opening, providing convenient and elegant architectural USB connectivity. The USB Extender Plus D is a Decora‑style wallplate that fits into a single‑gang wall box. Each extender supports USB 3.0, 2.0, 1.1, and 1.0 devices with data rates up to 480 Mbps. Direct connection of USB peripherals to a remote host eliminates the need for additional IP network drops, equipment, software, or drivers. For streamlined integration, the transmitter includes USB peripheral emulation that supports trouble‑free booting of the host. Also, the receiver features an integrated four‑port hub with 5 Volts, 500 mA available on each port to power attached devices.
The USB Extender Plus Series streamlines integration by avoiding IT‑specific design criteria that may be in conflict with the need to extend KVM in professional AV installations. For increased system reliability, peripheral emulation mimics continuous connection of device to host. Real‑time status LED indicators provide visual confirmation of port activity between an active host and each connected peripheral device.
Here are all the details. Leave a Comment
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InFocus Expands Q Series Handheld Tablet LineInFocus has released three new 10.1-inch, Windows 8.1 tablets specifically designed for use in school and at work. The second-generation InFocus Q Tablet series now consists of the INP-120Q for consumers, INP-120Q-ED for use in schools and INP-120Q-PR for business. Each of the new models features a 10.1-inch display, a version of the Window 8.1 operating system, an Intel Atom 1.8 GHz quad-core processor, 2GB RAM and dual front and rear-facing cameras. Unlike some other tablets, these models also feature network connectivity, USB-A, USB-C 3.0 and an SD card slot for easy data transfers.
There are only a few differences between the models. The consumer-facing INP-120Q runs Windows 8.1 with Bing and comes with Microsoft Office365 at no cost for one year so it’s ready for work or play. For power and increased productivity similar to a PC, the INP-120Q-PR and INP-120Q-ED run a full version of the high-performance Windows 8.1 Pro operating system. The education version is specially priced for school budgets.
InFocus Q Tablet includes free downloadable applications to facilitate sharing, viewing and controlling content with other InFocus devices wirelessly, enhancing the collaboration experience. Free apps include:
- EZ Display – Presents documents from the Q Tablet to an enabled InFocus projector.
- ControlView – Duplicates the InFocus Mondopad desktop on the Q Tablet, giving a presenter full touch control of Mondopad from the tablet.
- Present2 – Wirelessly replicates the Q Tablet’s screen on Mondopad for presentations.
- InFocus BigNote – Adds an interactive whiteboard to the Q Tablet with multi-colored pens and shapes for notes, sketches and annotations that can be saved and shared.
- InFocus BigConnect – Lets users make and receive SIP and H.323 video calls from the Q Tablet.
Here are all the tech specs. Leave a Comment
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Barco Partners with Vidyo and Gets Deeper into UCC Market Barco and Vidyo jointly announced a partnership this week. In case you don’t know Vidyo, it’s a provider of cloud-based HD and UHD video conferencing solutions. The plan is to integrate Vidyo into Barco’s TransForm C enterprise collaboration solution to enable high-quality universal VTC communications. This will be demo’d at ISE next week in Amsterdam (stand 11-F78 and 11-H75). This demonstration offers a preview of Barco’s anticipated market release of the solution, with commercial availability by end of first quarter of 2015.
The strategic alliance between Barco and Vidyo addresses the need for an immersive collaborative visualization solution with integrated telepresence capabilities for high-end collaboration spaces such as executive briefing centers and boardrooms to smaller-scale situation, crisis response rooms and control rooms. The combined solution provides an alternative to hard-wired VTC platforms with limited collaboration features, providing a cost effective, yet easy-to-use platform that facilitates remote collaboration for enhanced decision-making.
The new Barco collaboration system connects natively to Vidyo’s standard portfolio to deliver the experience. Barco’s solution uses Vidyo’s technology to translate the native VTC streams into low-latency, HD-quality multipoint video conferencing images. Users can configure and display multiple, dynamic VTC windows on a large display wall, integrate meeting room collaboration through the ClickShare one-touch, screen-sharing solution, and control source placement and size through Barco’s TransForm C display management software system. The TransForm C user interface runs on Barco’s immersive, seamless OverView OSV Series video wall for high-end collaboration spaces, as well as on the OBLX system, which features the OverView KVD or OVD near-seamless LCD panels for mid-range meeting room environments.
VidyoWorks works without forcing users to toggle between their application and a standalone communication client. Developers using VidyoWorks can create custom in-browser, desktop, and mobile clients that meet the needs of consumers and business professionals while leveraging Vidyo’s full portfolio. This includes software cloud servers that deliver multipoint video conferencing, interoperability with legacy systems and support across mobile and desktop from the cloud or on-premise.
The OSV Series video wall features blended, rear-projection display modules and seamless, bezel-free screen technology. The OverView OSV is available in resolutions ranging from 3.8 to 8.5 megapixels.
The OBLX system is a free-standing (no wall integration required!), scalable LCD display system providing high-quality visualization at a moderate price point. It features Barco’s OverView KVD or OVD near-seamless LCD panels, which can be configured into a basic 2×2 landscape, offering no limit to the horizontal extension.
For both systems, the TransForm C controller and collaboration management system provides placement of any video stream anywhere in the plane of the video wall. The solution also integrates with ClickShare, allowing users of this robust presentation and collaboration system to share multiple sources on-screen with one click.
All the details are here. Leave a Comment
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Sharp Intros 70″ 4K Ultra HD With PN-H701 Sharp has launched its first pro-grade 70″ UHD resolution (3,840 x 2,160) display first professional grade LED-lit LCD. Using an ultra-slim aluminum bezel, it’s designed for 24/7 operation. Measuring just 9 millimeters (top/right/left), Sharp says it’s the narrowest, thinnest and lightest display in its class. It can be used in both portrait and landscape formats, as well as up to 20-degree upward and downward tilt.
The Sharp PN-H701 comes equipped with built-in upscaling capability, allowing Full HD (1080p) signals to be easily upscaled to 4K Ultra HD images. In addition, the PN-H701 features a built-in USB and internal memory media player, allowing playback of informational content without the need of a PC.
It ships later this month and all the specs are here. Leave a Comment
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Extron Introduces Five MediaLink Plus Controllers – All Ethernet Device Control and PoE Extron has launched five new MediaLink Plus controllers. The MLC Plus 50, 100 and 200 are sleek, fully configurable Ethernet controllers with beveled edges, rounded corners, and backlit buttons. While the MLC Plus 50 features backlit Up and Down volume buttons, the 100 and 200 models feature a multi-function volume knob for smooth, precise control of select Extron amplifiers, ProDSP-equipped Extron products, and a wide range of audio devices. As part of the MediaLink Plus Series, all of these controllers are loaded with features and enhanced security, making them ideal for handling common AV functions such as display on/off, input switching, volume, and Ethernet control of AV devices. Magnetically-attached faceplates hide the mounting screws giving the controllers a refined, uncluttered appearance. Power over Ethernet allows the controllers to receive power and communications over one Ethernet cable. The MLC Plus 100 and 200 are also available in AAP versions; providing openings for up to four, single space Architectural Adapter Plates for numerous connectivity possibilities.
All of these new MediaLink Plus controllers are configured using Extron Global Configurator Plus or Global Configurator Professional software. They also integrate seamlessly with Extron’s award-winning GlobalViewer Enterprise software for complete AV resource monitoring, management, and control over a computer network.
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BenQ’s New M7 Projector Is Entry-Level Priced BenQ America today announced of a new 1-chip DLP projector series dubbed the M7. The MX723, MX726 and MW727 projectors all feature up to 4,200 ANSI lumens of brightness, a 13,000:1 contrast ratio, integrate BenQ’s SmartEco technology, include a mobile high-definition link (MHL) connector as well as dual HDMI support and have keystone correction.
Designed for any classroom, boardroom, or home theater environment, BenQ’s MX723, MX726 and MW727 projectors provide 3,700, 4,000, and 4,200 ANSI lumens of brightness and each are spec’d to have a 13,000:1 contrast ratio.
Equipped with something called LAN Display, the M7 Series allows audio and video signals to be carried to the projectors over a single LAN cable. Equipped with BenQ’s SmartEco technology, M7 Series lower TCO by setting projectors to “Smart Eco” mode so that the projectors automatically adjust lamp power by up to 70 percent in order to use just the right amount of brightness needed. To further reduce power consumption, an “Eco Blank” mode allows teachers or presenters to blank out the screen whenever projection isn’t required, while a “No Source Detected” mode automatically lowers brightness to 30 percent when no display has been detected for more than three minutes. After twenty minutes of inactivity, the projectors automatically shut down to save power.
Available now, the BenQ MX723, MX726, and MW727 retail at $1,199, $1,299, and $1,499 respectively. Here are all the specs. Leave a Comment
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Barco Claims World’s Quietest Laser Phosphor in the World With PGWX-62LProducing less than 35 decibels, Barco says that when someone integrates its new laser phosphor projector, meeting participants will hardly hear that they’re there. Available in two models — WXGA or WUXGA resolution — these projectors are spec’d to have a 6,000 ANSI lumens and 20,000-hour lifetime.
The 1-chip DLP Present-P series projectors use a combined laser phosphor light source and they can be rotated 360° and support portrait mode and can be installed in any direction, without any impact on their lifetime.
Barco has also integrated its wireless collaboration system (ClickShare) into both the projectors and they also accept, VGA, HDMI and HDBaseT signals natively. Thus, signals can be sent both wired or wirelessly.
The PGWX-62L is here. Leave a Comment
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Denon Adds Bluetooth Receiver to ProAV Lineup Denon Professional has a new Bluetooth-enabled (DN-333XAB) rackmount mic/line mixer with integrated amplifier. Aimed at the education, fitness, restaurant and hospitality markets, the DN-333XAB forms the heart of a complete commercial audio system by mixing and amplifying wireless, microphone and line input sources.
Designed for driving in-ceiling or wall-mounted speaker systems, the DN-333XAB features 120 watts of built-in Class D amplification at ultra-low distortion for exceptional clarity. Dedicated mixing controls for three XLR+1/4-inch (6.3 millimeters) combination microphone inputs, two pairs of stereo line level RCA jack inputs and a front-panel 1/8-inch (3.5 millimeters) auxiliary input allows users to create a seamless blend of audio from a plethora of source types. A front-panel Bluetooth pairing control with LED status indicator provides a fast and simple wireless connection to smartphones and tablets. An integrated audio limiter tames erratic signals from microphones or playback material.
The DN-333XAB output section offers detachable Euroblock 70V and 100V outputs with a 4-ohm transformer bypass output, as well as Chime, Alarm and push-to-talk mic facilities. An RCA line-level send and return connector lets the installer integrate external audio processors if desired. The compact 2RU unit fits neatly with other rack-mounted equipment for an integrated system appearance, or may sit on a shelf via the attached rubberized feet.
Denon Professional DN-333XAB Features:
- Audio mixer with Bluetooth receiver and 120-watt amplifier
- Accepts & mixes all common audio input types
- Independent volume controls for mic, line and Bluetooth inputs
- Three XLR+1/4″ (6.3mm) combo mic inputs with selectable +15V phantom power
- Two RCA line level stereo inputs; front panel 1/8″ (3.5mm) Aux input
- Built-in limiter automatically prevents erratic audio sources from clipping
- Front panel Bluetooth pairing control with LED status indicator
- Master level control with system Bass and Treble adjustments
- Euroblock connections for Common, 4-ohm transformer bypass, 70-volt, 100-volt, microphone PTT, Alarm and
- Chime outputs
- RCA line-level send-return connections
- Stereo RCA Aux outputs
- Space-saving 2RU design
The DN-333XAB lists for $399.99 and all the specs are here. Leave a Comment
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Sennheiser Introduces SpeechLine Digital WirelessAt ISE 2015, Sennheiser has unveiled SpeechLine Digital Wireless – a wireless digital microphone designed exclusively for speech applications. And, SpeechLine Digital Wireless has an Automatic Frequency Management feature that automatically searches for free frequencies on-site, thus eliminating the need for time-consuming frequency planning in advance.
Integrated Audio Level Management automatically adapts the system to the application scenario and the speaker. As a result, the system ensures optimum speech intelligibility at all times. Also, network integration enables the system status to be remote controlled and monitored at a glance at any time using the special app “Wireless System Remote” (WSR), AMX or Crestron — for example to show the current reception quality or the battery’s state of charge.
If wireless transmission is disturbed, Automatic Interference Management automatically and seamlessly switches the system to an alternative free frequency. The lithium-ion battery technology used in SpeechLine Digital Wireless provides a battery life of more than 15 hours. In addition to various flexible charging possibilities, the battery can also be conveniently recharged via USB if required, making it much easier to arrange several consecutive lectures. Optimum speech intelligibility is guaranteed at all times by various selectable sound profiles and sound processing algorithms, such as presets for bass-intensive male voices or high female voices.
Integrated with 256-bit AES encryption, the mic also operates in the license-free, future-proof 1.9 GHz frequency band, and no registration is required.
SpeechLine Digital Wireless is available as a handheld or Lavalier microphone or as a headset. All three sets include a mobile transmitter unit — a handheld or a bodypack system, a battery as well as a receiver station that can easily be integrated.
The SpeechLine Digital Wireless sets and the app “Wireless System Remote” (WSR) will be available in June. Here’s a video we shot of it at ISE last week.
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Extron ShareLink Collaboration Gateway Ships Extron is now shipping its new ShareLink 200 N Collaboration Gateway — Network Version, which enables anyone to present content from a personal device. This new version of ShareLink does not include an integrated wireless access point; rather, it works with the facility’s existing wireless network to allow content sharing from mobile devices. Supported devices include Windows and OS X computers as well as Apple and Android smartphones and tablets. ShareLink technology provides simultaneous display of presentations, images, documents, and other content from up to four different personal devices, eliminating the need to constantly change sources during a session. Content from a single device shows full screen, and content from multiple devices appears simultaneously in four windows on the display (2×2). Any user can share content and control the presentation when it is set to collaboration mode. A moderator mode allows only approved content to be displayed. Designed for ProAV applications, this wireless gateway also includes many integrator-friendly features such as WebShare technology, Power over Ethernet — PoE, and UL 2043 plenum rating. The ShareLink 200 N can be used to create a wireless collaboration and presentation system on an existing network or to add mobile device support to a variety of AV system designs.
The ShareLink 200 N can also enhance the presentation for audience members. WebShare technology enables content to be sent over the network to a Web browser on each attendee’s personal device. WebShare is useful if the sight line to the display is impaired or when slides need to be saved for future reference. ShareLink technology also allows a Windows or OS X computer to communicate with multiple ShareLink 200 or ShareLink 200 N units on a network to send the same content to as many as four displays. This is useful for larger spaces with multiple displays or to support adjacent rooms used for overflow. For easy integration into modern digital and legacy analog systems, ShareLink 200 N includes HDMI and VGA video outputs to support a wide variety of display devices and system switchers.
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Behringer Ships X AIR XR18 Behringer today said its X AIR XR18 Digital Mixer for iPad/Android tablets is finally shipping.
The XR18 is a remotely-controllable 18-input/12 bus portable mixer housed in a stage box form factor, and claim it’s the first of its kind designed for use with iPad and Android tablets, as well as smartphones and PC, Mac and Linux computers. XR18 is designed for both live and studio applications and includes 16 Midas-designed mic preamps, an integrated tri-mode Wifi module for wireless control — and a bidirectional USB audio/MIDI interface.
Other features include four high-end X32 stereo FX processors, with close to 50 studio-grade X32’s high-end FX “Plug Ins”; X AIR Gain Sharing technology for hands-free auto-mixing; a high-resolution 100-band Real Time Analyzer (RTA), with full bar and spectrograph views, and Ultranet connectivity for Behringer’s P-16 Personal Monitoring System.
The $699 X AIR XR18 can be found here. Leave a Comment
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Extron Introduces New Mic/Line to Dante Audio Interface Extron has introduce the AXI 22 AT D, a single-gang Decora-style audio interface for integrating two mic/line sources onto a Dante-enabled DMP 128 audio system. It features two XLR audio inputs and switchable 48-volt phantom power for connecting and powering condenser microphones, plus gain controls for each input. The AXI 22 AT D also features two line outputs on the back for routing any two Dante channels from the network to an amplifier, or connecting into an optional secondary wallplate with two XLR outputs. The AXI 22 AT D interfaces with Extron Dante-equipped audio processors over a standard local area network, and can be powered through PoE. This greatly simplifies the cabling infrastructure for integrating audio connectivity in locations remote from a central equipment rack.
The AXI 22 AT D digitizes two incoming analog mic/line audio channels at 24-bit/48 kHz for output via Dante, and converts two Dante audio channels for its analog line level outputs. It is connected into a Dante network over Ethernet using standard IP networking protocols. This avoids the effort and expense of pulling long analog mic cables from an audio processor to each wall, floor box, or furniture location. Audio system designers can easily design an audio system with AXI 22 AT D wallplate interfaces throughout a large facility, each connecting back into a central equipment location. For additional integration convenience, the AXI 22 AT D can be remotely powered through Power over Ethernet – PoE, using Extron XTP PI 100 and XTP PI 400 power injectors, a network switch equipped with PoE, or a midspan PoE injector.
A network of Extron Dante-enabled products, including the AXI 22 AT D audio interfaces, can be set up using Dante Controller software as well as DSP Configurator Software. Dante Controller is used to easily assign an output from an AXP 22 AT D to an input on a Dante-equipped digital signal processor, such as the Extron DMP 128 AT. Similarly, an output from a DMP 128 AT can be assigned to appear at the line level output of the AXP 22 AT D. Dante-equipped products are AVB – Audio Video Bridging ready.
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DynaScan Announces World’s Brightest Professional LCD DynaScan Technology has announced a new 1080p 55” LCD that produces a sunlight viewable 7,000 nit image. Dubbed the DS551LT7, it’s designed for applications in high ambient light environments like storefront windows, outdoor kiosks, and other locations with direct sunlight.
DynaScan says that each screen is individually color-calibrated to the D65 (6500 K) color standard and it will be available by the end of Q1 2015. Here are all the specs. Leave a Comment
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Altinex Expands MUSE Line Altinex has added two new additions to the company’s Muse HDMI+Power+IR+RS-232 signal management and distribution system: the MU400-123 and MU500-122, which allow for AC power to the far end and send an HDMI signal back to the near end. This “reverse” capability provides integrators with the power necessary for video equipment and the ability to send an HDMI signal back to the AV rack. A typical setup would include video equipment located at the point of use, and the signal is sent to the video switcher. With “reverse” capabilities, the local power to video equipment is provided by Muse through CAT6 cable and the HDMI signal is fed back using the same CAT6 cable.
Both can send signal and power over a single unshielded Cat6 cable as well as RS-232 and infrared control of third party devices. The output of the MU400-123 unit is monitored for power consumption and when power is exceeded, the output is turned off to protect all components. The Muse can power devices with a maximum continuous power consumption of 150 watts. The MU400-123 has many advanced features to safely transmit power to the source and receive HDMI video. These features include current monitoring, auto shutdown, and auto receiver detection.
The MU500-122 provides constant power and voltage to the HDMI source device. When the Cat6 cable length increases, the system automatically adjusts itself to provide the maximum possible power to the display. The MU400-123 and MU500-122 combination has a built in IR channel that allows IR signals to be sent from the MUSE transmitter (display side) to the Muse receiver (HDMI source side), to control AV equipment. This feature simplifies setup and provides convenience when AV equipment is hidden from sight.
The Altinex MU400-123 and MU500-122 list for $700.00 and $795.00, respectively. More information on MUSE is here. Leave a Comment
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Bose Professional Expands ControlSpace Dante-Enabled Products Bose Professional has expanded its range of Dante-enabled ControlSpace offerings with several new Dante endpoints and a new fixed-I/O DSP, providing integrators more options for creating installed audio solutions using Dante. The new ControlSpace products — ESP-1600 engineered sound processor; EP22-D and EP40-D endpoints; and WP22B-D and WP22BU-D wall plates — were designed to allow for Dante connectivity in houses of worship, classrooms, conference centers, hotel meeting and ballrooms, sporting and live performance venues and others.
The ControlSpace ESP-1600 extends the line of Bose fixed-I/O engineered sound processors with a new model designed for up to 16 analog inputs. The ESP-1600 features a built-in ESPLink output for sending eight digital audio channels to one or more PowerMatch amplifiers and when combined with a Dante card, the ESP-1600 becomes a powerful, high-quality and cost effective input processor (e.g. stage box) for Dante network distribution.
ControlSpace Dante endpoints, including the EP22-D 2-in/2-out Dante endpoint, EP40-D 4-input Dante endpoint, WP22B-D 2-in/2-out Dante wall plate and WP22BU-D 2-in/2-out Dante wall plate, complement Bose ControlSpace ESP products and PowerMatch lines and share configuration and control using ControlSpace Designer software. ControlSpace Dante endpoints, combined with ControlSpace ESP products and PowerMatch amplifiers, allow installers to create Dante-enabled systems of nearly any size, in either new installations or when retrofitting existing systems. Available in wall-box and rack/wall-mount versions enabling installation in various locations (surface, table, shelf, rack), Bose ControlSpace Dante endpoints are convenient and cost-effective for connecting analog devices like microphones and mixer amps.
Also, the company’s ControlSpace Designer software has been updated to version 4.2 to support the ControlSpace Dante endpoints and the ESP-1600 processor.
Here are all the tech details. Leave a Comment
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Beale Street Audio Intros In-Ceiling Subwoofers Beale Street Audio just launched two in-ceiling powered subwoofers in the form of the 6.5 and 8-inch ICS6 and ICS8.
Beale Street says the challenge for in-ceiling and in-wall subwoofers has been to produce deep, low frequency effects without damaging walls and creating sonic artifacts in the room. Beale Street Audio claims that its patented Sonic Vortex Technology moves air more efficiently and at higher speeds through multiple ports in a vortex-shaped enclosure.
Sonic Vortex Technology works by separating the main port of the enclosure into multiple sections called “fins” that are tuned to ideal listening specifications. The fins compress and move air at a high rate of speed without port noise and also add to the cabinet’s rigidity. Compared to sealed models, the Sonic Vortex design provides a 6 to 9 db boost in the mid-lower bass ranges and a flatter frequency response across the audio spectrum.
For more detailed specs, go here. Leave a Comment
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Interactive Display Market Remains Resilient with Market Value up 19 PercentDespite the increased focus on PCs and tablets, interactive display value is growing due to a strong transition to higher priced interactive flat panels, which accounted for over a third of the market in 2014, according to the latest research from Futuresource Consulting.
New entrants are now entering the market, offering flat panel solutions, including many distributors who are developing their own branded solution sourced from the Far East. Global market volumes reached 1.3 million units, representing a 2 percent decline.
“One of the key factors expected to ensure steady sales is that the replacement market is now significant, says Colin Messenger, Senior Market Analyst at Futuresource Consulting. “Of the seven million interactive displays in schools, one million are over eight years old. This is providing a strong opportunity with many end users trading up to flat panel solutions when they replace their existing display.
“In addition there are some large scale projects taking place that are driving market values. The major FATIH programme in Turkey for 350,000 displays is currently rolling out. In addition, China continues to see major investment across the whole country. There are also discussions under way for potential nationwide projects in both Thailand and Japan but neither of these are yet confirmed.”
Corporate Market Opportunity Hots Up As Microsoft Announces Surface Hub
An extremely attractive yet untapped gap in the market is that of interactive displays in the corporate meeting room. Futuresource estimates that there are 46 million meeting rooms globally, current penetration is negligible at 1.6 percent (with market volumes in 2014 reaching just over 100,000 units), compared to the 20 percent penetration in classrooms.
“Few vendors have developed solutions targeting the market and to date, the success of interactive displays in classrooms has not transitioned across to the meeting room environment. One of the largest issues we hear is the issue of simplicity. Unlike the classroom environment, meeting room solutions are likely to be utilized rarely by any one individual. Therefore meeting room solutions need to be completely intuitive to ensure adoption.
“This is where Microsoft’s launch of the Surface Hub could invigorate the sector, driving awareness as to the benefits of meeting room collaboration, but at the same time providing a simple to use intuitive platform for collaboration,” says Messenger.
Regional activity, key highlights
Asia continued to post strong value growth in 2014 with an increase of 15 percent year-on-year, while China continued its ascent, with more than half of all world sales.
US sales again decreased. One-to-one learning programs continue to develop apace in the US, with the introduction of common core assessments in 2014 acting as a stimulus for many districts. This major movement towards one-to-one, including internet infrastructure, diverts funds and focus away from front-of-class displays.
EMEA performed above last year’s results, with a value growth of 54 percent and volume of 15 percent helped by the second phase of the FATIH project in Turkey.
In the UK, interactive flat panel displays accounted for 58 percent of sales in 2014, taking significant market share away from interactive whiteboards and triggering faster value growth.
This 100+-page report examines the current state of the Interactive Display market across 67 countries, exploring market segmentation, drivers and barriers as well as detailed five year forecasts. For more information or to make a purchase, go here. Leave a Comment
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