Volume 11, Issue 4 — April 6, 2018
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PASS: An Alliance You Need to Know About
By Scott Tiner rAVe Columnist
Last month for rAVe Ed, I wrote an article about school safety. I was inspired by the Parkland students, who suffered a horrible tragedy and decided to do something to make sure others did not have to suffer a similar tragedy. I specifically avoided talking politics and law. I think there is a place for that, but this is not it. I had a vision where those of us in the AV industry could use our skills, talents and numbers to help make schools safer. When I wrote it, I realized it was a huge ask and may not be very likely, but I dared to dream. The morning after the article was first published, I heard from a friend in the industry. He had read the article and was inspired by it. He wanted to host a podcast to try and publicize the idea, and asked if I would discuss my article. I jumped at it! Anything to get this moving. He spoke with another friend in the industry (the amazing Gina Sansivero) and she told him about a group that already existed, the Partner Alliance for Safer Schools (PASS). By the end of the week my friend and Gina were hosting a podcast with me and Chuck Wilson of the NCSA. Chuck is the creator of PASS and after an hour with him, I realized that I needed to make sure everyone in the industry knew about this organization.
Chuck Wilson started by spending a few minutes discussing how PASS got started. Chuck had spent a day visiting an inner city Chicago high school. As he walked the school and the surrounding neighborhood, he wondered how students could go there everyday and feel safe. On the way home he made a call to SIA (Security Industry Association) and by the time he was done his drive home that day, NCSA and SIA had created PASS.
PASS currently provides resources for anyone who is interested in helping with school safety. They provide a checklist/assessment for integrators who are doing a school visit. They also provide outlines for four tiers of security over the different layers of a school. This includes everything from the parking lot to the individual classroom. Additionally, they provide estimated costs for each tier of the security protocol based on the square footage of the school. These are powerful tools for integrators and for school administrators and staff. Because the information provided by PASS is manufacturer-agnostic (and in some cases does not involve technology at all), you can provide services no matter who is on your line card. Second, because it’s developed by experts in the field, it’s truly a legitimate, well thought out process for creating safer schools. As an integrator you won’t feel like you are walking blind into a site visit, and you won’t be worried about whether you are giving accurate information.
This is important for school districts for many similar reasons. Money is a critical issue in any public school in this country. Many schools can not afford to hire expensive consultants and then have to write their own RFPs for equipment. By being able to deal with a trusted integrator, they save that precious money and put it to use for change. Additionally, the schools will know they are also following well-established guidelines. They can choose tiers based on the threats they feel are most likely and what they can afford to complete. Finally, they can do the work over a period of time that is affordable and can do it from the tiers. As an added bonus, to start looking into this information, the school does not have to spend money. Everything from PASS is provided free of cost.
Chuck Wilson and the other dedicated volunteers at PASS have already done something that I only hoped was possible. As a community, we need to support PASS in several ways. First, we need to use their tools and direct school districts to their site. This will help PASS and, most important, help the schools. Second, we can spread the word about PASS and support them financially. At InfoComm this year, a fundraiser put on by NCSA — the Drunk Unkles concert — will help support the PASS organization. Spread the word about the concert and fill up the venue.
I try not to write about the same topic very often. And I certainly try not to do it in back to back months. However, this is just too important and the work that has already been done is just too exciting. One comment from Chuck during our conversation stuck with me. We were talking about whether this is at all possible — could we secure every public school in the country? Chuck pointed out that about 50 years ago, fire alarm and suppression systems became code in all schools. Since that time, codes have not only been implemented across the country, but we have also not lost a single student in a school fire. Chuck envisions the same happening with school security. So, yes, with ALL of our help, this is possible. Leave a Comment
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Nine Tips to Bridge the Cybernetic Design Gap
By Raymond Kent Director of the Innovative Technology Design Group, DLR Group/Westlake Reed Leskosky
Before you commit to incorporating augmented or virtual reality into your design process, consider these scenarios that could harm, rather than help, your final outcome.
Much like Doctor Who’s TARDIS, the toolbox for design just got a lot bigger on the inside. What was once relegated to testing labs, tinkerer’s garages, and a relatively small segment of the gaming industry has now exploded onto the landscape of everyday tech with the promise to change practice in everything from product design to education to entertainment to architectural design. Unlike other technologies we have seen, augmented and virtual reality are looking to have staying power in a truly disruptive way.
A quick primer on this technology and its current capabilities:
Augmented reality (AR) is a live, direct or indirect view of a physical, real-world environment whose elements are supplemented by computer-generated sensory input such as sound, video, graphics, or GPS data. The most recent successful AR example is a little game you may have heard of: Pokemón GO. Thanks to the app, millions of users were chasing virtual creatures around the actual globe using their smart phones. The app generated millions of dollars in sellable data for the game’s creator and launched AR technology into the mainstream.
Virtual reality (VR), unlike augmented reality, currently relies on a head-mounted display (HMD) that blocks out all external visual and auditory stimulus and provides a computer-generated simulation of a three-dimensional image or environment with which users interact using special electronic equipment. Having the largest presence in gaming/entertainment, medical, and military applications, products such as the HTC Vive or Oculus Rift are providing immersive environments that transport the user into the intended scenario.
Both technologies have a long history dating back to the 1960s, and for much of their collective history, they were seen as clunky and expensive. Over the last several years however, investments from deep-pocketed sources coupled with advancements in computing power and the rise of smart devices, have gotten us much closer to the kind of technology we associate with legendary science fiction lore.
Designing with the Tech of the Future
As designers we have the opportunity to leverage this technology and delve more deeply into the design process in new ways. At DLR Group, we’re exploring how we can use this technology as an internal collaborative and iterative process in partnership with our clients, as a part of the product for the client in the form of a marketing/fundraising tool, or as an immersive way to experience the final environment.
There are a variety of ways to engage in AR/VR and a myriad of price points to go with it, each with advantages and drawbacks. Wading into this world can no doubt be a daunting task for any design team, but enticing possibilities for collaboration and new design techniques far outweigh the hesitancy. Below are some key considerations when deciding to launch an augmented or virtual reality design project:
1. Define Your Objectives
There are several key factors to consider outside of which technology you to use. In some ways the technology takes a back seat to the actual experience you’re working towards. As powerful as AR/VR technology is, the goal should always tie back to the core mission, brand, or business objective. This drives back to the most basic of questions: Why is using this type of platform necessary, and what do you expect of the outcomes?
2. Select the Technology
Once you’ve outlined your objectives, you should review the available technology to consider which one makes the most sense for your project. Does augmented or virtual reality make better sense? Are you using an existing technology you already have? Will it require custom software or off-the-shelf products to allow you to accomplish your goals? These considerations are critical to success as the outcomes may not translate between platforms; content developed for Oculus Rift will not translate to Google Cardboard.
It’s also crucial to understand the technology of any partner firms. Misunderstandings here can be akin to making a video call to someone using a rotary phone, as well as options for user control devices, which can range from gaming controllers, wands, gesture technology, or even thumb wheelsI It’s important to consider the user, the environments, and which control capabilities exist.
3. Try Before You Buy
First-time users are often awestruck when they initially experience new AR/VR technology. It’s exciting to try new things, but sometimes in their excitement, users lose their ability to deliver actionable contributions or feedback. It’s helpful to schedule training sessions with the team to acclimate everyone on how to best maximize your use of the technology. This could–and often should–include leveraging similar examples or test runs of the current project for your team to try out for themselves before any required constructive meeting.
4. Understand First-Person Design
Just as in the real world, in AR/VR, users see things from a different perspective. The iterative and interactive nature of AR/VR allows each user to contribute to the environment in their own unique way. This feature is exciting, but it is important to design the framework and boundaries for the environment, rather than have it be endless. If it’s too large, the team gets lost. If it’s too small, you could wind up virtually tripping over each other.
5. Separate the Good From the Bad
Investing in quality content will make the experience of designing in AR/VR much more effective, more dynamic, and more memorable. Know your comfort level with creating content, and find the right partner with the right experience to help fill any gaps. The teaming requirements should tie directly back to the original objectives, and how best to achieve them.
6. Mobile vs. Dedicated Environments
Incorporating a mobile platform for design use requires additional levels of consideration. Mobile app developers will tell you that some of the biggest challenges are creating apps for multiple platforms and multiple versions of operating systems, even on the exact same device. This complicates mobile AR/VR apps significantly, as there are essentially two layers to the app design. The first is the actual app design, which considers experience navigation and other out-of-experience control features such as settings. The second is the experience design itself, and how to navigate within the experience. Items such as breadcrumb threads and content libraries often have to be split between AR/VR modes and within the app itself. So the ability to develop or use the tools across both environments to leverage the experience in the design process is imperative.
7. Duration and Timing of Delivery
Setting realistic expectations for the development, setup, and delivery of the experience so users get the most out of the design process is crucial, particularly if you work on billable time. Even if you clearly define your objectives, select the right technology, and put the right people in place, you can’t completely absolve yourself of delays or complications. A timely approach will allow users to reap the unique, unmatched benefits this technology can produce.
Developing the necessary tools to achieve your goals can take an average of 12-to-16 weeks for simple scenarios, and as much as three-to-six months before design even begins. The good news is set-up can work in tandem with other initial developmental design processes, such as programming and schematic design, which often mimics the timeframe of AR/VR setup. There are also several shortcuts that can shorten the set-up time, including purchasing stock 3D video capture or computer-generated elements, purchasing pre-written modules of code or complete software add-ins such as Enscape for Revit.
8. Understand the Technology Will Evolve Faster Than Your Project
Thanks to large infusions of investment capital being pumped into the market, technology developers are spinning out new technology and software almost daily. This is exciting, but can make for an uneasy landscape. You and your team can chase the proverbial technology tail forever, trying to dazzle and incorporate what new thing just came out. Keep in mind that your main objective is to deliver an experience and a narrative rather than showcase the technology. The AR/VR landscape can be an incredibly powerful design and presentation tool, but it is not a cure-all for unwanted or inadequate design ideas. What it can do is provide solid dimensional collaboration and communication opportunities that present the material in a more intuitive way than 2D drawings or images on a screen.
9. The Environment for the Environment
The last consideration for using AR/VR in the design process is where you will be using this technology. Mobile applications have the least number of controlled environments and offer the most flexibility, but the output can be affected by the real world environment, e.g. sunlight glare, ambient noise, poor acoustics in the space. AR in a dedicated, enclosed, controllable environment requires special consideration to maximize the technology’s ability to display content. Depending on the sophistication of the technology, it may require fixed objects within the room to lock onto where the AR visual field sits.
The computing power required for many of these system is much greater than for standard applications. Poor or limited bandwidth will hamper the experience and can cause latency issues or crashes. The rule of thumb when working with this technology is that you should double the expected bandwidth required whenever possible.
Following these best practices can put your design project on a good path for success. I recommend starting off with unique aspects within a smaller project’s total design project so you can acclimate to the process, and get a feel for how it will be beneficial. Doing this on multiple projects will allow you to build your skills and improve your design portfolio across greater platforms. Happy designing!
This content is reprinted with permission from DLR Group. Leave a Comment
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Spectrum Adds SIM32 Front-Loading Tablet and Laptop Storage Cart for Education
Spectrum Industries has introduced the SIM32 Cart, which has the smallest footprint of any Spectrum design. The SIM32 measures 24 inches wide, 22 inches in diameter and 37 inches in height. The small cart can store 32 laptops or tablets. The SIM32 can also store and charge iPads, Chromebooks and notebooks. Plastic dividers are used to separate and protect devices. The SIM32 offers easy accessibility and storage of electronics due to its front-loading door. This system keeps cords organized and offers a large storage space. Rotated and staggered power outlets built into the SIM32 can fit most AC plug adapters. The SIM32 is composed of heavy steel making it one of the toughest carts on the market and also comes with a single-bolt latch for security.
There are two available models of the SIM32, one with a power switch and one with the eLogix Timer. The eLogix Timer available contains a power switch and LEDs that help identify which electronics are charging. The SIM32 is ETL listed to UL 60950-1 standard.
Here are all the details.
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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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VITEC Intros the MGW Diamond Encoder, Expanding Its HEVC Ecosystem VITEC has expanded its ecosystem of HEVC video distribution solutions with the new MGW Diamond Encoder and the VITEC Playout Server, a point-to-point HEVC distribution solution, which is being announced at NAB. The MGW Diamond Encoder adds quad-channel HEVC encoding in what VITEC says is a compact and portable form factor to the VITEC HEVC family. The all-new VITEC Playout Server provides an efficient platform to manage, capture, preview and distribute IPTV streams, complementing VITEC’s point-to-point HEVC contribution ecosystem.
VITEC’s point-to-point/point-to-multipoint HEVC streaming offering, featuring the MGW Ace hardware-based HEVC encode/decode solution. VITEC’s MGW Diamond is a compact HEVC and H.264 HD/SD encode designed for any multichannel broadcast application. The MGW Diamond delivers HEVC encoding in a fraction of the footprint of comparable encoders, with the ability to capture up to four 3G/HD/SD-SDI or composite inputs and live stream up to eight channels.
Complementing the VITEC HEVC ecosystem, the new VITEC Playout Server provides an efficient platform to manage, capture, and preview IPTV-protected streams transmitted by VITEC encoders from any location and distribute them within a target network, whether for rebroadcast, video-on-demand or any other application. The server is the perfect solution to enable high-quality, low-bandwidth, reliable contribution over the internet while avoiding the use of expensive and less flexible fiber or satellite transmission infrastructure, leading to a dramatic reduction of operating expenses (OPEX).
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Magewell Adds HDR Support to Select Cards in Pro Capture Family Magewell today announced the addition of High Dynamic Range (HDR) support to select HDMI models in its flagship Pro Capture family of PCI Express capture cards.
When used with HDR-enabled video sources and software, Magewell’s HDR support will allow users to capture and record content compatible with the HDR10 open standard for consumer TVs. HDR support will initially be available in Magewell’s Pro Capture HDMI 4K Plus, Pro Capture HDMI 4K Plus LT and upcoming dual-channel Pro Capture Dual HDMI 4K Plus models, all of which support resolutions up to 4096×2160 at 60 frames per second over HDMI 2.0 interfaces. Existing cards can be upgraded to support HDR by simply uploading a new EDID (extended display identification data) file.
HDR capture and recording will also require HDR-enhanced software applications. In addition to anticipated support from third-party vendors, Magewell will provide a sample application for testing and development, and plans to add HDR recording capabilities to a future version of its own Capture Express software. Captured files can then be played back on HDR10-compliant devices through compatible playout hardware or software.
The HDR enhancements for 4K, HDMI-connected Pro Capture Plus cards are available immediately to developers, with end-user software to follow. HDR support is also planned for Magewell’s 2K/HD Pro Capture cards through future driver and firmware updates, bringing the benefits of extended dynamic range to high definition productions.
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How Wearables, Augmented Reality and Virtual Reality Will Make a Difference in EducationFor decades, new technologies have promised to transform education. Every year, educators are bombarded with top-ten technology lists that promise to transform their practice, their classrooms and even school as we know it. Often, these market-driven approaches represent attempts by technologists to solve what they view as problems in education. While many such solutions are effective in solving specific problems or in meeting certain needs, they typically work within the current realities of the present-day education system. Rarely do they support transformational change.
With the spread of wearables, augmented reality and virtual reality, education stakeholders again face the question of how developing technologies may support learning. These technologies have the potential to impact learning in significant ways. However, evaluating their uses requires sifting through the hype and developing a critical filter for assessing their potential value.
As highlighted in KnowledgeWorks’ 2015 forecast, The Future of Learning: Education in the Era of Partners in Code wearables, augmented reality and virtual reality could be used to support the creation of responsive learning environments, or learning biomes. This provocation raised the possibility that these developing technologies might facilitate the creation of more inclusive, positive group learning environments that would support students in cultivating the knowledge, skills and dispositions that they will need to succeed in the future.
This paper explores the potential for wearables, augmented reality and virtual reality to help create more responsive learning environments that:
- Increase student engagement
- Enhance the personalization of learning
- Increase understanding of others’ experiences and perspectives
- Help develop greater levels of self-awareness
- Foster critical thinking
- Increase student agency
In exploring these technologies’ future potential for education, the paper presents a frame for understanding how such technologies add a layer of “digital depth” atop physical reality. It also takes a closer look at each technology, with emphasis on its relevance to education. Building upon this analysis of the technologies’ potential relevance to education, five future vignettes illustrate some ways in which wearables, augmented reality and virtual reality could support the creation of responsive learning environments. The future vignettes are followed by insights and implications for education stakeholders to consider in evaluating potential uses of these and other emerging technologies in education and an action guide for exploring these technologies’ potential in specific settings.
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Leyard and Planar Expand Planar Simplicity Series LCD Display Line with 4K ModelsLeyard and Planar announced the Planar Simplicity Series 4K, expanding the Planar Simplicity Series line of LCD digital signage displays to include five new 4K models. The displays are designed for retail, museums, corporate communications, quick serve restaurants and small companies with a limited budget that would like to capitalize on the benefits of digital signage.
The Planar Simplicity Series 4K features:
- Wide variety of sizes (43”, 55”, 65”, 75” and 86”)
- Exceptional clarity with four times the resolution of Full HD
- Whisper-quiet fanless design
- Native 4K resolution at up to 60Hz support for smooth video and mouse tracking
- Integrated signage tools, such as USB playback with scheduling and LAN distribution, eliminating the need for third-party hardware
- Built-in speakers
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ATEN Introduces Thunderbolt 3 Docking Station ATEN Technology today announced the UH7230 – Thunderbolt 3 Multiport Dock solution. The UH7230 Thunderbolt 3 Multiport Dock quickly connects peripherals and displays video content from a laptop. The Thunderbolt 3 Multiport Docking Station allows users to add an additional monitor for enhanced multitasking, such as designing and viewing of movies, or photos in high definition.
Thunderbolt 3 provides high speed data transfers, powerful performance and lightweight in a single form factor. So, while more laptops – like MacBooks and Ultrabooks – are adopting the interface, many users are still faced with the challenge of connecting multiple devices with legacy interfaces due to lack of the proper port.
UH7230 key features include:
- Support of dual 4K or 5K resolution for graphics-intensive multitasking – allows users to connect one 5K display or two 4K displays (one DisplayPort and one Thunderbolt 3 USB-C port) with nearly 16 million more pixels than HDTVs. Whether editing video or digital media, designing graphics, or using applications that require high-definition visuals, users will benefit from astonishing resolution, contrast, and color depth.
- Blazing fast speed to boost productivity – with up to 40Gbps bandwidth, users can transfer files faster (a 4K movie takes less than 30 seconds) and reduce waiting, freeing up more time to accomplish other tasks.
- USB Power Delivery 2.0 for Mac and Windows laptops – supporting up to 85W of power delivery, the UH7230 is an intuitive central hub for not only connectivity expansion, but also for charging a laptop and USB accessories. The UH7230 can provide power to matched USB-C Windows or Mac laptops with PD Profile specifications of 20V/4.25A, 15V/3A, 9V/3A, and 5V/3A.
- Simplified workspace via a single cable – using the (included) single Thunderbolt 3 cable, the docking station expands connectivity up to 8 ports, including audio, Gigabit Ethernet, DisplayPort, Thunderbolt 3 USB-C and USB 3.1 Gen 1 ports to accommodate a user’s most demanding computing needs. A Thunderbolt 3 port is also provided to daisy chain up to 5 additional Thunderbolt 3 devices, such as data storage.
The UH7230 Thunderbolt 3 Multiport Dock is now available for $220. More information is here. Leave a Comment
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Carousel Digital Signage Intros tvOS App for Apple TV Deployments With Jamf Carousel Digital Signage Software is now available on Apple TV through the company’s Carousel App, which can be downloaded from the Apple App Store. The new Carousel App will allow anyone running a digital signage network, whether they are a small school district or a large enterprise network operating across hundreds of locations, can now use Apple’s Apple TV as a media player.
Because of an integration partnership between Carousel Digital Signage and Jamf, a device management provider that specializes in helping IT departments bring the Apple experience to corporate, education and government organizations, it allows the Carousel App and Apple TVs running on a digital signage network to be easily monitored and managed as remote IT appliances.
Jamf is the leading Apple device management solution in K-12 schools, making the education sector particularly well-suited for the Carousel App. But the same capabilities and benefits can be applied to corporate campuses and other enterprise-class deployments that want to add our digital signage, or transition their network to a lower cost, more reliable and easily managed solution.
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Spectrum Introduces Pivot Jr. WorkstationSpectrum Industries has introduced the Pivot Jr. Workstation which offers height adjustable features, mobility and flexibility for this product to be used as a student desk or small lectern.
The Pivot Jr. features a backpack and cup holder that provides storage and more work room. The height of the Pivot Jr. can adjust from 27-42 inches making this small footprint the perfect piece of furniture for any student’s or teacher’s height. Available with either casters or glides, mobility in any area with this product will never be a problem.
The Pivot Jr. is made of a scratch-resistant powder coat and high pressure laminate worksurface. In addition, the worksurface is available in a variety of Spectrum’s full expression colors including dry-erase. With the Pivot Jr’s height adjustable features and effortless mobility, this product will be a great fit for collaboration in the classroom.
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Sony Upgrades Vision Exchange Classroom Collaboration System Today, Sony announces version 1.1 of its interactive collaboration and active learning solution Vision Exchange. The upgrade adds Skype for Business (but, weirdly, no Zoom support) and something they are calling Personal Note Taker. The updates to Vision Exchange aim to eliminate any logistical remote learning issues and applies to the two main unit series PEQ-C100, PEQ-C130 and Pod PC Software PES-C10.
This update to Vision Exchange will improve educational workflows and will be available at no additional cost for the first year of purchase. This will ensure that existing V1.0 owners can seamlessly take advantage of the new V1.1 software. For future updates, Sony offers the Software Upgrade Program (SUP) that will provide users with an annual subscription.
Skype for Business is one of the most popular remote communication tools within both education and business environments, and as such, will be natively integrated into Vision Exchange. Using Vision Exchange, students can work collaboratively with one another, without having to be in the same room. They can also wirelessly share content from a multitude of devices. Wherever they are working, seamless collaboration on a global level can be achieved.
Vision Exchange’s existing Interactive Mirroring function enables users to connect and share any source within the classroom. The new Personal Note Taker takes this one step further which enables students to easily refer, capture, write and save the main screen content using their own devices, for their later review. There is no need for students to take photos with their devices to capture information for later use; it can all be captured using the new Personal Note Taker.
Additional new features:
- HDMI input has been added to support Pod PC software PES-C10 and with the addition of a 3rd party HDMI capture box, AverMedia’s DarkCrystal CD750.
- BYOD screen mirroring is now enabled with major OS platforms. Sony-unique “Quality of Service (QoS)” mechanism enhances their stable mirroring connectivity.
- Multi-language support (German, French, Spanish in addition to Japanese, Chinese and English).
- Streaming Option support for Pod PC software PES-C10 (requires optional license PEQA-C30).
- The content area of the primary display can now be streamed out for recording, lecture capture or live distribution with the optional license PEQA-C30.
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TechLogix Intros Fiber Cabling LineupTechLogix Networx is expanding its Media over Fiber Optics lineup with a new offering of bulk fiber cabling, connectors and accessories.
The initial TechLogix fiber line includes riser-rated OM3 multimode fiber, plenum-rated OM3 multimode fiber, LC and SC style connectors, termination kits and test kits. All products are compatible with TechLogix’s existing line of HDMI extenders, USB extenders, DVI extenders and AV over IP distribution systems.
TechLogix fiber cabling employs SSF technology to streamline the installation process by spec’d that it can handle a 220-pound pull rating, has a micro bend radius and polymer coating to ensure cable integrity and safety when handling.
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Vinten Debuts Ceiling Track System for Cameras Vinten today announced that its robotic camera dolly and ceiling track system will ship in the U.S. next month. A collaboration between Vinten Automation and veteran dolly manufacturer Tecnopoint, the new Vinten ceiling track system is designed for creative productions in which floor space is at a premium.
Like its sister product, the Hexagon floor track system, the new ceiling track system fully integrates with all Vinten robotic camera supports. The dolly, motorized column and robotic head natively interface with the Vinten control protocol and can be fully managed from the Vinten robotic control system (VRC) to create a powerful studio robotic solution. The track system supports shot sequencing, allowing users to select multiple shots and execute a seamless move through multiple key frames, and an absolute encoder outputs tracking data to the VRC, making the system ready for use in an augmented reality or virtual reality environment.
The new ceiling tracks are designed for flexible installation. The dollies run on steel rails mounted on a truss, while four traction wheels with dual synchronized motors enable high-traction operation with virtually no slipping. Available with straight or curved tracks, the system’s modular structure enables multiple configurations to fit any specification.
The quiet ceiling track system offers integrated cable management, so there are no cables outside the track. Cables move along the track with a festoon system, although a unique cable management system that uses a side vessel for chain cable is available for users who can’t accommodate a festoon.
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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.
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B-Tech Launches New Heavy Duty Projector MountB-Tech AV Mounts has launched a new projector mount, purposely designed for today’s larger, heavy duty projectors. B-Tech’s latest mount, the BT893, can handle projectors up to 70kg and can be mounted to ceilings directly or with B-Tech’s ø50mm pole system for suspended installations. The BT893 boasts easy adjustment to tilt, yaw and roll – allowing for perfect projector alignment. Also featured is tried and trusted micro-adjustment technology borrowed from their installer favoured BT8310 video wall mount, for precision alignment of projected images. Micro-adjustment is altered using handwheels for better grip and a more controlled adjustment.
Designed for live event and staging applications, as well as large scale projection mapping use, the BT893 has been developed with input from some of the world’s largest projection manufacturers.
The BT893 is available now. Here are all the tech specs. 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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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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Optoma Unveils the ZH420UST Laser Projector at Digital Signage Expo
Optoma today at DSE 2018 debuted the ZH420UST 1080p HD laser projector — an ultra short throw projector with built-in edge blending and warping. They are aiming it at digital signage applications where you need projection in a large format. And since it’s laser, it can be mounted in any configuration.
The ZH420UST is a single-chip DLP projector that’s spec’d at 4,000 ANSI lumens, a 100,000:1 contrast and 0.25:1 throw ratio so it can project a 100-inch image from just 13 inches away. Inputs include HDBaseT and two HDMI. It’s available in two colors — ZH420UST-B (black) and ZH420UST-W (white) and will list for $2,799.
Here are the detailed specs. 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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Gefen Ships Six New AV-Over-IP Products Gefen is now shipping six new models from their Gen 2.0 AV-over-IP product line including the DVI KVM, VGA KVM and audio-only input and output formats. The Gen 2.0 KVM line claims 4K Ultra HD with HDR support, built-in scalers, video-wall control, independent USB, RS232, IR, audio routing and backward-compatibility with first-generation products.
The new Gefen AV-over-IP line-up includes a new KM Emulation feature which facilitates real-time, simultaneous keyboard and mouse control of each source from all connected workstations, eliminating the inherent limitations of earlier systems. HDMI and DisplayPort products feature maximum input resolution of 4K 60 Hz 4:2:0, and maximum output resolution of 4K 30 Hz 4:4:4. HDCP 2.2 and 1.4 are also supported. The DVI and VGA models support VESA and CEA resolutions up to WUXGA (1920×1200 at 60 Hz) and 1080p Full HD (1920×1080 at 60 Hz).
The Sender units (except DisplayPort) feature a video output for local monitoring of the source. USB, RS232 two-way IR and audio can be routed independently between any sender and receiver unit, allowing end users to control any of the sources and the displays within their network.
The new digital and analog audio over IP units allow integrators to add audio-only nodes to an installation. Each receiver can play back audio from any of the Gefen AV-over-IP sender units, including audio de-embedded from HDMI inputs. These senders and receivers can be used for multi-room music, conferencing, public announcement and live venue audio projects.
All KVM and AV Receivers feature a built-in scaler as well as a video wall controller that accommodates any screen configuration up to 16×16 in sizing and manipulating live and signage content. Digital and analog audio break-out on HDMI, DVI and DisplayPort receivers allow audio that is embedded into the video to be sent to a separate audio system, enhancing the impact of presentations in large venues. HDMI models pass 7.1 channels of HBR (High Bit Rate) and LPCM digital audio from source to display.
The Receivers’ integrated USB hub with two USB 2.0 and two USB 1.1 ports accommodate touch panels, keyboard and mouse, and a variety of supported devices.
A built in two-port Gigabit switch on each receiver allows the daisy-chaining of additional receivers or other IP-enabled devices. In applications such as digital signage, where content is often replicated on multiple displays throughout the installation, the ability to cascade the receivers removes the requirement for each cable to be run directly to the main network switch.
You can see the entire line here. Leave a Comment
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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.
Here are the details.
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Vaddio Shows New Classroom Studio Solution Vaddio is partnering with Cattura to show how Vaddio AV Bridge switchers and RoboSHOT cameras connect with Cattura CaptureCast devices.
Cattura’s multi-source and multi-room recorder gathers content from all relevant content sources and then records or streams to applications like Kaltura, Opencast, Panopto, YouTube and more. When paired with RoboSHOT cameras and the AV Bridge MATRIX PRO presentation switcher, end users can create live audio and video captures of classroom interactions. When a PC is connected to the AV Bridge MATRIX PRO with USB, end users can bring remote classrooms into the learning environment using soft conferencing programs like Skype, Google Hangouts or Zoom.
The classroom recording studio is well-suited for applications including mobile lecture capture for higher education, recording large corporate events and house of worship venues.
The recording studio solution combines a Vaddio AV Bridge MATRIX PRO switcher, Cattura CaptureCast, Vaddio RoboSHOT PTZ cameras, Middle Atlantic RFR series mobile rack and Shure wireless microphones that can be used in a host of applications including live production, automated presentation and unified conferencing and collaboration.
The AV Bridge MATRIX PRO combines audio and video mixing functionality into a single appliance. It provides a way to add multiple cameras, microphones and other AV devices to a classroom. It then manages the complex process of mixing, switching and controlling those devices into a single USB or HDMI stream.
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Covid Introduces Two New HDMI Cable ProductsCovid has announced the addition of two new HDMI cables to its extensive cable line: a locking HDMI cable and a right-angle HDMI cable. The locking HDMI 2.0 cable, (HDLK) features the Ultra Lock System, making it one of the most secure and reliable high retention HDMI cables on the market. The simple locking device is locked into place by easily pushing up on the switch located on the connector head. These locking HDMI cables support resolutions up to 4K@60Hz (4K-18G), are triple shielded and are offered in several lengths up to 10 feet.
Covid’s right-angle HDMI cable, (HD-RA) is an option when space is limited for the HDMI connection. They also offer the benefit of being a more cost effective solution when compared to purchasing both cable and angle adapter separately. These cables are built using high grade materials including copper foil shielding, and to help with flexibility are offered in 30 AWG gauge size. The Right-Angle HDMI cables support resolutions up to 2160p@60Hz (4K-10G), and can be purchased in a variety of lengths up to 10 feet.
Here are the tech specs. Leave a Comment
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Marshall Adds Newtek NDI Marshall Electronics’ new CV620-NDI high-definition PTZ camera is now equipped with NewTek NDI and is recognizable as a source by other NDI-enabled applications and devices connected to a standard Ethernet local area network.
Marshall’s new CV620-NDI utilizes the same smooth tri-synchronous pan-tilt-zoom control as other Marshall PTZ cameras, while adding improved video performance and multi-level fine tune adjustments. Adding NewTek’s NDI capability enables this camera to be integrated, controlled and managed using a range of NDI-enabled equipment. Installers and users will be able to discover the CV620-NDI camera and use the tools that NDI enables for IP workflows.
NewTek’s royalty-free NDI technology allows video and audio sources to be shared bi-directionally across a network, eliminating the need for costly direct connections, expensive cable runs and infrastructure upgrades while turning every source into a destination instantly available anywhere on the network.
Here are details on NewTek’s NDI and here are specs on the Marshall camera. Leave a Comment
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IHSE Adds Dual-Head/Dual-Link DVI Extenders for Draco Series KVM Systems
IHSE today announced it has added new models to its Draco ultra fiber and CatX extenders for Draco vario ultra KVM matrix systems. Known as the 492 Series, the new extenders support either dual-link DVI up to 2560×2048 at 60 Hz or two single-link DVI sources up to 1920×1200 at 60 Hz. The extenders also accommodate USB 2.0, digital audio, analog audio, RS232 and RS422 signals with the optional upgrade card.
As DVI extenders that support both DVI dual-link and DVI dual-head in the same plug-in extender module, the 492 Series allows for connectivity via point-to-point connections or through KVM matrix switching. By using a standard DMS-59 cable adapter included with the units, users can easily configure the units to support one 2560×2048 display or two 1920×1200 displays.
The 492 Series extenders offer high-performance remote-display transmission of dual-link DVI-D signals up to 10 kilometers over one fiber-optic cable or up to 140 meters over a CatX cable.
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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
Here are all the specs. Leave a Comment
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