Volume 9, Issue 4 — April 10, 2018
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Aeiforia Technos Editorial
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Blockchain and the New Sustainable Frontier
By Raymond Kent Director of the Innovative Technology Design Group, DLR Group/Westlake Reed Leskosky
If you have never heard of blockchain before, it’s to your advantage to read up on it. Most people in some way have heard of Bitcoin, the ubiquitous digital cryptocurrency, but have not ventured farther into that somewhat mysterious world. Blockchain is what makes cryptocurrencies such as Bitcoin work, providing it security in an unregulated market. It’s essentially the digital ledger that all cryptocurrency uses to track transactions and any associated data. When you buy Bitcoin, for example, that transaction gets recorded into a decentralized database and enforces any contracts related to the transaction automatically. Since it is decentralized, the transaction history is added to the digital chain rather than in a paper trail ledger. This keeps score in all locations rather than just one, and since it is also encrypted, it is nearly impossible to tamper with.
The financial markets are already using this technology in the wild west of cryptocurrency; however, the premise of blockchain technology is also garnering attention from other industries — and for good reason. Online retailers, for example, are researching it for handling product purchases and delivery more efficiently and securely in an effort to stem the tide of data breaches that have plagued retailers such as Target and Home Depot. Energy companies, as another example, see advantages in potentially clearing out the antiquated and cumbersome trading and clearing systems in what is a complex market.
There is potential in leveraging smart meters as the genesis of blockchain ledger points, creating a distributed grid that would allow the power companies the ability to sell excess energy to anyone in the open market, effectively cutting out the middle man and lowering total energy costs. A Brooklyn, NY startup, LO3 Energy, is currently testing this across its microgrid of solar panels. By leveraging blockchain technology, excess energy can be diverted to provide real-time demand and load-shedding. The biggest hurdle to scaling this up is current energy regulations and government policy.
Additionally, blockchain can help large international manufacturing and retail companies manage supply chain hurdles such as sustainability certificates and origin of materials by verifying the process along the way automatically and issuing the certifications instantly, speeding up delivery and process and reducing their total product chain carbon footprint. This plays nicely in developing Environmental Product Declarations (EPDs) for products or components made or sold at retail. This works well with any companies Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) data collection in compliance with ISO 14040/44 by building it into a blockchain ledger where a product’s environmental data can be stored and tied to its financial data all within the same ledger allowing the data to be machine readable on demand speeding up the process and significantly reducing errors or omissions based on the decentralized nature of blockchain.
On a more local scale, blockchain technology can be tied to IoT sensors within a building, campus or region to drive energy efficiency even higher as well as protect a company’s critical infrastructure from potential hacking and disruption. This type of distribution can also help get a company up and running faster after a natural disaster as the stored assets are located across many locations instead of being stored in just one location — a virtual, perpetual and instantaneous redundancy. Blockchain strategies also have the potential as well from an asset management side monitoring computer, security systems, audiovisual, lighting or other systems within a building or collection of buildings from a theft management as well as usage and power management side to again control the carbon footprint of these systems along with informing operations and capital purchase decisions.
The Information Communications Technology industry could be a huge beneficiary of blockchain, and will need to find qualified individuals to implement blockchain strategies as networking and communications are critical to having a successful system. If the ICT industry does not catch up and get involved, others will take up the slack — and end up raking in the Bitcoin. Leave a Comment
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Did Plantronics Bail Out Polycom or Is This Perfect Timing?
By Gary Kayye rAVe Founder
As the rest of the advertiser-supported AV press just reprints the Polycom or Plantronics press releases, we’re going to call it how we see it — with the truth about this “acquisition.”
Yes, Plantronics is taking control of Polycom — a history-making videoconferencing company that all but invented the space — for what amounts to $2.0 billion in enterprise value, but the financial breakdown of the deal is this:
- Plantronics assumes about $690 Million of Polycom debt.
- They pay about $948 in cash and 6.4 million Plantronics shares (that’s valued at $362 Million the moment the deal was announced yesterday).
- Polycom shareholders end up owning about 16 percent of Plantronics
The transaction has been unanimously approved by the boards of directors of both companies, is subject to regulatory approvals and other customary closing conditions, and is expected to close by the end of the third calendar quarter of 2018. Polycom is privately held and for CY2017, Polycom had GAAP revenue of $1.1 billion, Non-GAAP gross margin of 56.6 percent, Non-GAAP operating income of $183.1 million and Non-GAAP operating margin of 16.0 percent.
But, who wins and who loses in this deal?
Well, to be frank, this could be one of those win-win deals in a few different ways. First off, Plantronics has been begging to be noticed in the commercial AV space ever since debuting its Habitat Soundscaping sound-masking environment last year. It’s garnered a lot of popular press and some nods from the integration community (and they’ve paid for a few awards) but it hasn’t yet taken hold in a big way. The system is truly unique and one of the most creative products we’ve seen in years. It should sell but it’s a bit complicated to pitch as it’s not simply sound masking.
Simultaneously, companies like Zoom and products like Skype for Business have been eating Polycom’s lunch when it comes to conferencing and collaboration. To combat this, Polycom even partnered with Zoom back in 2017 but in reality, most people use Zoom as a stand-alone product/service. Zoom is currently valued (remember, it’s private) in excess of $2 Billion by many financial analysts. Zoom has publicly stated it’s in 90 percent of the top-200 US-based universities and that more than 50 percent of the Fortune 50 companies primarily use Zoom.
So, this is the perfect time for Plantronics to buy Polycom. Plantronics needs distribution in the commercial AV market and Polycom needs both a tech and financial boost if it wants to eventually compete with the likes of Skype, Zoom and even Cisco’s Spark platform. Plus, as an added bonus, Plantronics has key contacts inside the IT world of the Fortune 1000 via nearly unanimous adoption of its phone headset market — it has well in excess of a 90 percent market share there. Polycom could benefit selling its hardware-based systems into that already-developed market owned by Plantronics.
In the public statement yesterday after the acquisition announcement, Plantronics said that Polycom “brings a global leadership position in voice and video collaboration, accelerating Plantronics vision of delivering new communications and collaboration experiences.” This is absolutely true. Polycom has some of the best people in AV and its brand is like the “Kleenex” of the VTC market.
This will help Plantronics ease Habitat Soundscaping in to the ProAV market — or, at the very least, get noticed.
Polycom is a provider of communications and collaboration technologies. Polycom is privately held and has been an innovator in personal collaboration, group collaboration, and services (including customer care, managed and professional services, and cloud services for interoperability, management, and analytics). For CY2017, Polycom had GAAP revenue of $1.1 billion, Non-GAAP gross margin of 56.6 percent, Non-GAAP operating income of $183.1 million and Non-GAAP operating margin of 16.0 percent. Significantly Enhances Plantronics Long-Term Shareholder Value
The transaction is expected to be immediately accretive to Non-GAAP EPS. Plantronics targets achieving annual run-rate cost synergies of $75 million within 12 months of transaction close.
Plantronics intends to fund the cash portion of the consideration with cash on hand and approximately $1.375 billion in new, fully-committed debt financing. Wells Fargo Bank and affiliates have committed to provide the debt financing for the transaction, subject to customary conditions. Plantronics expects to pay down a significant portion of the debt within the next several years with cash on the balance sheet and through cash generation.
Plantronics is here and Polycom is here. Leave a Comment
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Prysm Adds the LPD 6K, an Interactive Single Panel Large-Format DisplayPrysm is creating a new category in the display market by unveiling its latest – the Prysm Laser Phosphor Display (LPD) 6K Series. These interactive large-format single panel displays offer a panoramic image with no seams or bezels with, what they are saying is, the power consumption similar to a commercial coffee maker. The displays are shatter-resistant, flexible and offer rollability for transport.
The new modular design uses a durable front screen — made of a specialty coated polycarbonate layer – that is rolled into a cylinder for easy transport. This allows integrators to negotiate tight corners and enter through standard doors and passenger elevators during set-up — something that is nearly impossible for traditional large-format displays.
The LPD 6K display is available with Prysm’s visual collaboration platform known as the Prysm Application Suite. The Prysm Application Suite consolidates applications, content, video conferencing and the web into a touch-interactive workspace. This combination is known as the LPD 6K Series and is made up of the following components:
- 190-inch or 135-inch LPD-powered single panel large-format display and Prysm collaboration appliance
- 90-day Prysm software trial license (optional)
The LPD 6K Series is currently in general availability and shipping to partners and customers. All the specs are here. Leave a Comment
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Osprey Video Announces Raptor 12G and HDMI 2.0 PCIe Capture Cards Osprey Video today announced the launch of the Raptor I/O family, the newest generation of Osprey’s PCIe cards. The Raptor family includes an array of solutions, from 3G-SDI to 12G-SDI cards with up to eight inputs to HDMI 1.4 and 2.0 cards in single- and multi-input configurations. With Raptor, users can ingest video from SD to 4K UHD/DCI, depending upon the card series selected.
Each SDI input will support 16 embedded SDI audio channels, while the HDMI series will support eight channels per input. As with earlier Osprey offerings, some models of the Raptor SDI card will offer programmable loop-outs and true I/O capability. In a new feature for Osprey, many of the multi-input SDI cards will offer bidirectional I/O ports, allowing each port to be used as either input or output. Also added are analog black burst and HD tri-level reference connections.
Raptor has a unified driver that supports DirectShow, Windows Media Foundation, Medialooks and NewTek NDI (Windows), as well as Linux V4L2 and Advanced Linux Sound Architecture.
All Raptor cards are fanless. They are also available in a ruggedized version that features passive cooling, a high-humidity coating for outdoor applications and are all here. Leave a Comment
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Marshall Electronics Releases New AR-DM61-BT Multi-Channel Digital Audio Monitor Marshall Electronics announces the release of a new multi-channel digital audio monitor, the Marshall AR-DM61-BT. Packed into a 1 RU design, the Marshall AR-DM61-BT allows users to monitor up to 64 channels of audio vertically, or two detailed audio channels horizontally and also includes a live video confidence monitor. It also is equipped with two powerful stereo speakers that feature a max volume of 100 dB.
The AR-DM61-BT has two dedicated 3GSDI inputs with loop through (MADI compatible), and one additional HDMI input. It has four stereo AES inputs and outputs, supports eight channels on “D” input and output (-10 dB or +4 dB switchable), and has speakers powerful enough to be heard even in a noisy control room environment. The 10-inch LCD intuitive touchscreen panel uses Loudness, K-weighted, relative to full scale (LKFS) bars and peak indicators and is the first-of-its-kind to include a live video confidence monitor.
The AR-DM61-BT is fully compatible with the latest Dolby and Dante formats, and has a built-in Web server for software updates, storing and retrieving presets, making the AR-DM61-BT a “future proof” solution. It is AES67 compliant and accepts inputs from multiple signal types with format conversion and matrix routing.
The Marshall AR-DM61-BT is here. Leave a Comment
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Altinex Adds Control Capabilities to MultiTaskerAltinex just introduced the Neutron MT312-104 Digital MultiTasker Control Card for use with the MultiTouch family of touch panels for boardrooms, lecture halls, residential control systems, among others. It is designed with sensory inputs to control any third-party equipment and provides unlimited possibilities in designing audiovisual systems when combined with the power of the AVSnap software. The MT312-104 is equipped with two bi-directional RS232 ports, two IR ports, two relay ports and two sensor ports. When MT312-104 is combined with 12 or 20 slots enclosures it provides an unlimited control options and system design flexibility. The relays can be used to independently control lights, screens, shades and system power, while the sensor inputs trigger events based occupancy, noise, light, video and audio sensors. They can handle up to 1 amp at 30V DC and can be program as momentary or latching relays. The RS232 ports are equipment agnostic and can control any type of equipment with various baud rates from 9600 to 115K. The sensor inputs will respond to contact closures and voltage outputs from other equipment. The threshold is programmable to accommodate specific sensor. The two supplied voltages, +12VDC and +24VDC add additional flexibility and convenience when configuring sensor inputs. The MT312-104 combines all the necessary functions to design and implement small and large AV systems. Just like other MultiTasker cards, the MT312-104 must be installed in an enclosure to provide a complete control system. The Neutron MT312-104 Digital MultiTasker Control Card is $250. Leave a Comment
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Yamaha DXS12mkII and DXS15mkII Powered Subwoofers DebutYamaha today announced the DXS12mkII and DXS15mkII portable powered subwoofers that combine a super-efficient Class-D amplifier putting out 1,020 watts of peak power (as compared with 950 watts in the originals) with a unique bandpass cabinet design. This configuration helps the subwoofers achieve remarkable sound pressure levels (SPL) from compact enclosures; the DXS12mkII and DXS15mkII are capable of a maximum SPL of 134dB and 135dB, respectively. Low-frequency response has also been improved, with the DXS12mkII going down to 42Hz and the DXS15mkII to 40Hz. Compared to the competition, the DXS12mkII essentially offers the performance of a 15” powered subwoofer, while the DXS15mkII provides that of an 18” unit. Because the amplifiers do not require active cooling, the DXSmkII subs can be run at high volume for extended periods and not risk the thermal shutdown or distortion issues that plague much of the competition.
On the original DXS models, the XLR thru outputs simply passed the full-range audio from the inputs to any connected speakers. On the DXSmkII models, these outputs have a high-pass filtered option, meaning that all crossover work is done within the subwoofer. In this configuration, connected full-range powered speakers (such as the Yamaha DXR or DBR Series) can devote their full output power to amplifying only those frequencies the DXSmkII subs are not.
For mounting a full-range speaker on a pole atop the subwoofer, both models now have an M20 threaded socket in addition to the standard 1-3/8” (35mm) non-threaded socket, resulting in increased stability. For stacking speakers directly, insets on the top of the cabinet minimize unwanted vibration in even the highest SPL-use cases. Plywood construction decreases weight compared to the original models by approximately six pounds.
Here are the details. Leave a Comment
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Vivitek Releases V 3.1 of NovoConect Collaboration SoftwareSo far, the Vivitek NovoConnect is the top competitor to the Barco ClickShare for a button-based wireless collaboration system. Vivitek also just released version 3.1 of its software, adding what it’s calling Quad View screen capability allowing four inputs to be wirelessly-streamed to one screen in nearly any layout format — not just a 2×2 wall configuration — including Apple AirPlay and GoogleCast capability.
In addition, new features like AES-256 security protocol compatibility, a software interface that is not only faster to download for their Launcher buttons to connect but also a better UX and a configurable sleep-mode timer.
Other features include something the company calls AirNote (UI flow includes on-off control, current user display, user designation, etc.), Full on-screen mirroring in iOS or Android, slideshows can now be used in full-screen mode and no WiFi password is required.
Go here or search for Vivitek in the Chrome Web Store App Store, or Google Play Store and get the update for free. Leave a Comment
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TVU Networks to Show Evolutionary Changes in Broadcast Video Workflow at NABAt the upcoming NAB Show, TVU Networks will introduce updates and new features for every aspect of the TVU ecosystem — from acquisition and transmission, to production, distribution and management. TVU Networks will showcase updates for its TVU Grid v5.0 live video switching, routing and distribution system, TVU Anywhere app v7.0, TVU RPS Remote Production System v4.0, and TVU Command Center v3.0 cloud-based centralized management solution, as well as enhanced social media integration capabilities.
New releases will be shown at NAB for TVU Anywhere — TVU Networks’ powerful app that enables organizations to instantly capture and transmit footage from anywhere at anytime. One new feature of TVU Anywhere v7.0 is remote access to camera on phone control from a central operations room via the TVU Receiver. This allows for complete control over the camera’s focus and brightness and features Pan, Tilt and Zoom ability, providing an operator back at the studio with unprecedented control over camera framing and exposure without degradation of HD picture quality. Another new feature enables users to record and stream live video on their smart phone while leaving a full copy of the recording. TVU Anywhere aggregates all available data connections for streaming, including Wi-Fi, cellular and Ethernet.
TVU Networks will also showcase a new version of TVU Grid — which provides live video switching, routing and distribution with sub-second latency. TVU Grid v5.0 includes the all-new TVU Grid Market, which gives Grid users the ability to exchange, share and sell video content using the solution’s infrastructure. Users can view TVU Grid public video sources that are available around the world and request to take the stream and make it available for their own viewing audience. The entire process of transferring a selected video source is automated with minimal delay from source to destination.
Enhancements to TVU’s video content management solutions include updates to TVU Command Center. TVU Command Center offers centralized remote management and control of all TVU products and services. As a cloud-based solution, it offers the convenience of remote access from anywhere with an Internet connection. With version 3.0, TVU Command Center now integrates with the TVU Booking Service, enabling broadcasters to better manage their IP video workflow through a simple-to-use management system. Extensive booking management features have been added in for greater options and control over the scheduling of daily TVU transmission. TVU Command Center v3.0 also supports metadata creation and editing, including Story Slug, to provide a description of the event to be captured.
TVU Networks will also introduce TVU RPS v4.0 for the first time at NAB. TVU RPS provides a simple solution for live, multi-camera, fully synchronized remote productions using low-cost commodity Internet. Ideal for sporting events, on-location news, concerts or corporate events, TVU RPS encodes up to six synchronized SDI sources in the field and transmits over a standard, low-cost commodity internet connection to a broadcasters existing studio control room for production. TVU RPS v4.0 includes new extensive support for the following: 16 channel AES/EBU embedded SDI audio, Variable Bit Rate (VBR) and the ability to set channel priorities.
TVU’s social media integration capabilities are now updated to include Periscope API support to go along with existing support for Facebook Live and YouTube Live.
All the details will be posted here, go here. Leave a Comment
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Magewell to Debut Standalone Streaming Encoder
Expanding beyond its video capture and playout cards, Magewell will show company’s first standalone, hardware-based streaming encoder at the 2018 NAB Show next month. Dubbed the Ultra Stream HDMI, it’s capable of recording or streaming video and audio from a variety of sources with one-click using on-device buttons or a smartphone app. Designed for users who want to stream but may have very little technical knowledge, the encoder is aimed at church volunteers, teachers and gamers to corporate marketers and live event organizers.
The initial configuration is performed over network or Bluetooth connectivity with the free iOS or Android app. Once encoding and destination parameters have been set (e.g., entering Facebook or YouTube keys), recording and live streaming can be started and stopped directly with physical buttons on the Ultra Stream unit or via virtual buttons in the app. It can natively stream to Twitch, YouTube and Facebook Live or to a custom-specified RTMP server. Streams can be output to multiple target services simultaneously, while real-time video preview in the smartphone app allows for monitoring.
The first of multiple planned models in the Ultra Stream family, the Ultra Stream HDMI captures, encodes and streams video up to 1080p60 via an HDMI input interface from sources such as video cameras, players and game consoles. The encoder also supports 4K HDMI inputs at 60fps with 4:2:0 color subsampling, down-converting them automatically to HD (H.264) for recording and streaming. Embedded HDMI audio is done by an analog microphone input and a headphone output for monitoring. HDMI loop-through connectivity enables source signals to be simultaneously sent to a monitor or projector without the need for an HDMI splitter.
In addition to outputting live streams, the Ultra Stream HDMI can record video as MP4 files to a directly-connected USB drive or the associated smartphone. Footage can also be recorded in a loop on embedded storage within the unit for subsequent previewing and downloading. The device supports H.264 video compression and AAC audio, with HEVC encoding and recording planned for a future update. Two distinct combinations of resolution, frame rate and bitrate can be specified, enabling simultaneous recording and streaming with different parameters. Still frames can also be captured with the app.
The compact Ultra Stream HDMI measures just 3.7 inches (94.2 mm) square with a height of 1.1 inches (28.5 mm). The flexible unit offers both wireless and wired network connectivity, with built-in Wi-Fi as well as an RJ45 Gigabit Ethernet port. Here are the specs. Leave a Comment
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TASCAM Expands Acclaimed DA-6400 Multitrack Digital Recorder TASCAM’s DA-6400 Multitrack Digital Recorder has been given a powerful new upgrade, with the new Version 2.0 firmware update adding a host of new functions and enhancements. In addition to a variety of performance and functionality improvements, the new Version 2.0 update incorporates two new features: Theater Play mode and playlist support.
The new Theater Play function enables DA-6400 users to set start and end marker points for individual takes. These markers allow theater operators to trigger multichannel events manually or via external control, after which the system automatically proceeds to the next scheduled cue and waits patiently in standby mode. This potent feature enables venue designers to easily combine audio, lighting and scenery cues into a single, easily controllable experience.
Using playlist mode, users can define regions and non-destructively set playback ranges within individual multitrack Takes, and create dynamic scenarios whereby these regions are played in various orders and/or multiple times each. This makes creating complex performances from chains of events quick and intuitive.
Other new functions include playback of WAV files in 32-bit PCM and 32-bit floating formats, sorting functions that allow the take list to be arranged in Take timecode or Take name order and mDNS support so that network connection with the DA-6400 can be achieved from Mac OS and Telnet or VNC and FTP apps that support mDNS.
TASCAM DA-6400 Firmware V2.0 is available now as a free download here or to see the DA-6400, go here. Leave a Comment
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ATEN Debuts New KVM Switch Series ATEN Technology today announced the expansion of its enterprise KVM solutions line with the launch of a new series of Secure KVM switches. The 18 new KVM switches are compliant with PSS PP v3.0 (Protection Profile for Peripheral Sharing Switch, Version 3.0) and certified by the National Information Assurance Partnership (NIAP) to ensure high-level desktop security, protection and data safekeeping for organizations in industries such as government agencies (e.g., Department of Defense, Department of Justice, CIA, military, etc.), finance and other environments using multiple computers with different security classifications.
ATEN’s new PSS PP V3.0 Secure KVM Switches provide isolation between computer sources and peripherals while sharing a single keyboard, mouse, monitor, speaker set and Common Access Card (CAC) reader between connected computers with various security classifications. Compliance with PSS PP v3.0 ensures peripheral sharing capabilities provide maximum user data security when switching port focus, preventing unauthorized data flows or leakage between connected sources. Key protections include isolation and unidirectional data flow, restricted peripheral connectivity and filtering, user data protection, configurable device filtering and management and tamper-proof design, keeping sensitive assets isolated and providing advanced security and a user-friendly design for instantly secure deployment.
ATEN’s new PSS PP V3.0 Secure KVM Switches support multiple customer demands with options including two-port, four-port and eight-port models; video interfaces including DisplayPort*, HDMI and DVI. The ATEN series of Secure KVM Switches also provides customers with the flexibility to connect single or dual displays, providing up to 4K UHD (3840×2160 @30Hz) video quality.
ATEN will start accepting orders for its 18 new certified Protection Profile for Peripheral Sharing Switch, Version 3.0 Secure KVM Switches on April 2nd, 2018, with shipping expected on April 30, 2018. Here are all the models. Leave a Comment
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TrueConf and Panasonic Partner for Videoconferencing Solutions Using Panasonic Phones
Panasonic and TrueConf have teamed up on a family of video conferencing offerings. TrueConf Server is officially compatible with the Panasonic KX-HDV430 SIP deskphone and Panasonic’s KX-VC-series, including the KX-VC1000, KX-VC1300, KX-VC1600 and KX -VC2000.
This integration will expand video conferencing capabilities as people using Panasonic deskphones and high-definition video conferencing systems can join conferences running on TrueConf Server using SIP-server internal assignment (IP-PBX). The integration was performed through TrueConf’s gateway, which is commonly used to connect external subscribers to video conferencing endpoints.
One of the key elements of the integration is Panasonic KX-VC1000 — KX-VC2000 systems. The systems provide Full HD video quality at 60 FPS and have built-in MCU. Depending on their needs, users can choose any of the following KX-VC-series models: KX-VC1000 for point-to-point video calls, KX-VC1300 for four connections, KX-VC1600 for 10 connections and KX-VC2000 for 24 connections. KX-HDV430 is the first Panasonic corporate deskphone with support for up to 16 SIP lines.
TrueConf and Panasonic experts believe that the integration can be used for various corporate needs. The integration eliminates the video communication barrier between TrueConf and Panasonic users and opens up new opportunities for collaborative use of their video conferencing solutions.
Here are more details. Leave a Comment
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New Clear-Com E-IPA Is Audio-over-IP Card Clear-Com has introduced a high-density audio-and-intercom-over-IP connection card for the Eclipse HX series, called E-IPA. Natively AES67 compliant and SMPTE2110-30 ready, the E-IPA card provides 64 streams of low-latency and high audio bandwidth connections for linking existing and new IP-based Clear-Com products as well as for interoperating with AES67 compatible products. With this card, Clear-Com can deliver up to 256 IP ports in the Eclipse HX-Median and Omega systems.
The E-IPA card comes in 16, 32, 48 and 64-port options, and is compatible with Eclipse HX-Delta, Median and Omega systems. Eclipse HX-Delta can support up to three E-IPA cards, while the Median and Omega can carry up to four, allowing users to build an extremely dense network with a mix of connectivity options.
E-IPA is natively AES67 compliant and SMPTE2110-30 ready. Now Eclipse HX systems with the E-IPA card can easily interoperate with other AES67 compliant products. For example, Clear-Com’s flagship FreeSpeak II wireless intercom system has an all-new AES67-based IP Wireless Transceiver (IPT). With up to 64 IP ports, the E-IPA card can support up to 64 IPTs and 64 FreeSpeak II wireless beltpacks on just one card over AES67 compliant IP networks.
Here are all the specs. Leave a Comment
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Marshall Electronics Announces New HD PTZ Camera
Marshall Electronics just debuted a new high-definition PTZ camera, the Marshall CV620-WH2/BK2. Built on a 2-megapixel, 1/2.8-inch sensor, the Marshall CV620 delivers 1920×1080 video and can be controlled remotely via RS232 over Ethernet cable or RS422 over twisted pair. It uses common protocols to make it compatible with most integrated control systems.
The Marshall CV620 has multiple outputs including HD-SDI (3G) and HDMI (DVI) and many broadcast adjustable settings, such as white balance, exposure, iris, gamma, black level and more for tremendous flexibility of use. The pan-tilt range spans 340° horizontally and 120° vertically. It offers simultaneous 4D control for pan, tilt, zoom and focus.
The Marshall CV620 can be set to resolutions of 1920x1080i, 1920x1080p and 1280x720p, with adjustable high-speed frame rates of 60, 59.94, 50, 30, 29.97 and 25 frames per second. The high definition PTZ camera, available in black (BK2) or white (WH2) color options, is mountable via table, wall or ceiling and includes flappable images.
The Marshall CV620-WH2/BK2 is here. Leave a Comment
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Axeos Launches Stand-Alone (aka: Not Ugly) Huddle Space Furniture Pod
Someone has finally launched a “not-ugly” huddle space furniture solution. Axeos, a french furniture company, just launched a new range of AV-focused collaboration and technology integrated (that it calls “Connected Conference Space”) furniture — we would call it a pre-fabricated huddle space dubbed the MX POD.
Our MX POD is designed for collaboration and open-plan office organizations. Designed to allow for AV integrators to add both AV and collaborative gear, it’s supposed to create a huddle space out of any space in an office. It’s self-contained, round and includes a table with a connection panel and it can accommodate a display from 32’” to 40’”. Axeos also says, mechanically, it’s acoustic correction design absorbs noise and contributes to the comfort and the concentration of attendees. The off-the-shelf design seats four. The total height is 1500 millimeters, total diameter is 2220 mm, seat height is 450 mm and it uses a standard table height of 740 mm.
Here are all the detailed mechanical specs. Leave a Comment
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Epson Ships PowerLite L-Series Laser Projectors for Education and Corporate Markets
Epson has announced its new PowerLite L-Series for corporate, signage, education and houses of worship. The new Epson PowerLite L615U, L610U, L510U, L400U, L610W, L500W and L610 use an integrated laser light source, include up to 6,000 lumens of color and white brightness with resolutions up to WUXGA (1920×1200) and have enhanced wireless technology to connect to multiple devices.
Epson’s new PowerLite laser projectors are spec’d to offer maintenance-free operation with up to 20,000 hours using a laser light source. Weighing between 17 and 19 pounds, PowerLite L-Series features are designed to be portable or for installation. The new PowerLite L-Series also supports advanced wired and wireless solutions, including HDMI and HDBaseT. To support BYOD classrooms, the projectors provide enhanced wireless display technology, allowing teachers to connect the projector to up to 50 Chromebooks, PCs and Mac computers, and iOS and Android devices. Educators can also simultaneously display up to four screens with the Epson iProjection4 wireless display solution. The PowerLite L610U and L615U models offer wireless screen mirroring from a smartphone or streaming device with Miracast.
The projectors include the following features:
- Solid-State Laser Light Source and Electrostatic Air Filter
- Versatile Connectivity and Control – Supports a full range of inputs, including HDBaseT 3G-SDI; compatiblilty with Crestron RoomView, AMX, Extron XTP, Control4 and Art-Net for easy integration
- Full 360-degree installation flexibility, including Portrait Mode, Instant Off power, quieter performance and high contrast ratios
Here are the detailed specs on each one. Epson says the projectors will ship in August.Leave a Comment
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VIA Announces VIA Mobile360 License Plate Recognition System
VIA Technologies today announced the launch of the VIA Mobile360 License Plate Recognition system, a computer vision solution that enables the automatic detection and recognition of license plates in real-time or from recorded footage.
Powered by the NVIDIA Jetson TX2 module, this AI-driven edge computing system collects license plate data complete with high quality images, timestamps, and GPS coordinates from up to four cameras. Its state-of-the-art license plate detection application utilizes an algorithm that detects up to 10 plates per frame – enabling the instant identification of stolen vehicles, traffic-rule violators, fine evaders, and criminal suspects by law enforcement and government agencies.
With its robust low-power design, the VIA Mobile360 License Plate Recognition System delivers ultra-reliable operation in buses, police cars, and other public service vehicles. It offers multiple hardware and software customization options to meet specific installation requirements, including support for up to four cameras, HD Digital Video Recording, remote wireless monitoring, and seamless cloud database integration.
The system also provides a flexible solution for commercial operators of parking lots, gas stations, toll roads, and other facilities to enhance the efficiency and security of their operations by automating vehicle authorization, payment, and monitoring processes.
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Adder Adds WUXGA AV-Over-IP KVM Adapter
Adder Technology just debuted an IP-based KVM (keyboard, video and mouse) transmitter – the ADDERLink INFINITY 100T (ALIF100T). The ALIF100T is aimed at broadcast operations, control rooms, command and control centers and IT management.
The ALIF100T USB-powered KVM transmitter is part of the ADDERLink Infinity solution. It can be plugged into the back of any computer like a dongle. The ALIF100T uses only 2 watts of power and can also be powered directly from USB, meaning there is no need for power distribution units. The system supports resolutions up to 1920 x 1200@60Hz through either DVI, DisplayPort or VGA and USB stereo audio (Line In, Line Out) is sent digitally across the network. It has integrated EDID management to either allow the true characteristics of the monitor to be passed back to the computer, or controlled resolutions to be imposed.
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New Holosonics Audio Spotlight Technology Debuts Holosonics unveiled newest Audio Spotlight technology — a directional audio technology. Aimed at the digital signage and out-of-home advertising communities it’s designed to place audio precisely and unobtrusively. Audio Spotlight technology creates a tight, narrow beam of audio, similar to the beam of light produced by a flashlight, which is designed for adding sound to any digital signage installation, without disturbing the surrounding area. Holosonics claims that this spotlight effect reduces sound levels by over 90 percent just a single step outside the narrow beam of coverage.
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Atomos Shogun Inferno and Sumo19 Unlock the Panasonic AU-EVA1 5.7K RAW Output Panasonic’s AU-EVA1 is a great Super35 cine camera with low light capabilities. Now users will be able to unlock the true potential of this amazing camera and its low noise sensor by combining it with the Atomos Shogun Inferno HDR monitor/recorder, thanks to the release of Panasonic’s free RAW output upgrade.
Users will soon be able to capture 5.7K RAW imagery direct from the sensor at up to 30 fps over the 6G SDI connections and record it to SSD media. In 4K resolution you can record up to 60fps from the RAW output in production ready Apple ProRes, Avid DNxHR or CDNG RAW up to 2Kp120 or 4Kp30. The resulting frames are super clean, detailed and capable of withstanding heavy grading.
The Shogun Inferno also helps the EVA1’s slow motion performance. It can record the RAW output at up to 240fps in 2k/HD, direct to Apple ProRes or Avid DNxHR. Perfect for sports, wildlife and a wide range of other uses. All these features will come in an AtomOS upgrade for the Shogun Inferno and Sumo19 to be released this month.
Shogun Inferno also offers state-of-the-art monitoring for both HDR and SDR recording with its 7” 1500nit high brightness panel with the Sumo19 at 19” and 1200nits.
Take the guesswork out of exposure in HDR or Log with Atomos’ unique AtomHDR system which shows a massive 10+ stops of dynamic range on either screen. The display is colour accurate and can be calibrated over time using a X-rite i1Display Pro probe. Benefit from AtomoOS’ full range of monitoring tools like waveform, vectorscope, false colour, audio level meters and pixel-to-pixel magnification.
Users can also load and store LUTs directly into Shogun and Sumo for complete creative control, production to post. With HDMI or SDI users can output their footage in 4K PQ (HDR 10) or HLG HDR direct to a compatible television or monitor for instant preview using our AtomHDR engine.
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Crestron Ships AM-300 AirMedia 2.0 Wireless Presentation System Crestron announced today it is now shipping its new AirMedia Wireless Presentation System (AM-300), featuring AirMedia 2.0 technology. The AM-300 also offers a DM input, HDMI in and out, LAN port for power and communications, and full display control.
Crestron says that AirMedia 2.0 sends video, keyboard and mouse commands wirelessly and is a BYOD solution that an on-screen display with connectivity instructions, room availability, and meeting details when connected to a calendaring platform, includes mirroring with Windows, MacOS, Android, and iOS, without Bonjour software, and it’s capable of both cloud-based deployment and management and enterprise-grade network security.
While a lot of the AV industry’s BYOD products provide just a wireless access point, AirMedia 2.0 is a network-based wireless presentation technology that leverages the latest security protocols: 802.1x network access control; Active Directory user authentication; AES-128 content encryption; and SSH, SSL, TLS, and HTTPS.
AirMedia 2.0 is basically a network-based appliance that can be deployed, configured, and managed from the cloud. Using Crestron XiO Cloud or the built-in web tool, the mobile app can be deployed to laptops and smart devices across the enterprise, and user access rights and firmware updates can be remotely managed.
The AirMedia family includes the following products:
- AM-101 Wireless Presentation Gateway
- AM-200 AirMedia Presentation System with AirMedia 2.0 and HDMI in and out (available June 2018)
- AM-300 AirMedia Presentation System with AirMedia 2.0, DM in and HDMI in and out
- DMPS3-4K-250-C DigitalMedia Presentation System with AirMedia 2.0 capability built-in
- DMPS3-4K-350-C DigitalMedia Presentation System with AirMedia 2.0 capability built-in
- Crestron Mercury with AirMedia 2.0 capability built-in
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Roland Releases Updates Its V-60HD HD Video Switcher to V1.1 Roland Professional A/V has released the new version 1.1 firmware and software updates for the Roland V-60HD HD Video Switcher, an integrated video switcher and audio mixer. The new updates introduce support for Roland’s RCS Remote Control Software, add Auto Scan automated video switching and add panel information commands to the already available RS232 control for use with connected touch panel or other programmable interface devices. The RCS software, available now as a free download for both Mac and PC, provides remote control of the V-60HD over a connected LAN. In addition to the comprehensive virtual control provided by RCS, Roland’s Smart Tally function provides wireless tally capability to any smart device on the LAN via an IP browser setup screen, thus eliminating the need for wired tally cables typical to live production setups.
The V-60HD offers a feature set suited for live event production as well as broadcast, recording and streaming. The V-60HD supports SDI camera inputs plus scaled HDMI inputs for data, computer, tablet and other video sources via a variety of video connections, plus a Program and independent AUX bus for confidence/presenter note monitoring, downstage monitoring or side screens. The V-60HD also offers advanced audio functionality including multi-channel embedded audio, XLR/TRS and RCA analog inputs, and multichannel embedded audio to two SDI outputs, plus comprehensive dynamics and auto-mixing.
Compact, portable and easy to operate, the V-60HD supports six video channels from a variety of inputs, including 3G-SDI, HDMI and RGB sources with scaling on HDMI and RGB inputs to support both video and VESA resolutions from 480i up to WUXGA. A built-in de-interlacer enables 1080i and 1080p SDI video sources to be used simultaneously without external signal conversion.
Program, Preview and AUX bus sources enable flexible output for multiscreen environments such as churches, conference centers, hotels, and trade show facilities. The dedicated AUX bus may be assigned to any of the four discreet SDI or HDMI outputs providing seamless switching from the eight input channels and two still images uploaded via the USB port. The USB port also allows users to save program files and memory settings and upload software updates.
A front-panel 3-inch LCD display allows quick access menu navigation and access to switcher parameters. A multiviewer supports Program and Preview feeds and up to eight video sources with audio meters and labels.
The professional user interface also includes broadcast switcher quality cross-point buttons with PGM/PST LED color indicators, a rugged T-bar and DSK (downstream luminance or chroma keyer) quick edit knobs for key level and gain. Two sets of dedicated controls enable center framing of Split and PinP (picture-in-picture) placement. The DSK can be used to apply up to three layers of composition incorporating titles, song lyrics, logos or graphics coming from the video sources. Video processing enables cut, mix with cross-dissolve and NAM/FAM transitions, with up to 30 different wipe patterns, with seamless transition ensured by time-based correction and frame synch.
The V-60HD also features a 18-channel audio mixer with four TRS/XLR combo jacks with 48V phantom power, an RCA stereo pair, plus audio de-embed from the six video inputs. Audio processing capabilities include powerful dynamics and effects, such as a high-pass filter, gate, compressor/limiter, 3-band EQ, delay and the ability to select audio-follows-video channels. The audio features also include an innovative discreet multi-channel audio embedding function and auto-mixing capability.
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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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