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Volume 11, Issue 6 — March 21, 2013
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Church Redux
By Anthony Coppedge
House of Worship Technology Consultant I’ve written about growth churches and mega churches in the past because they offer a lot of sales potential for Audio/Video/Lighting manufacturers and systems integrators. Fast growth = frequent sales opportunities. I’d put the majority of my marketing and sales resources there, no doubt.
However, there’s something to be said for the other 90 percent-plus of the churches in North America. That’s right: The vast majority of churches are either in slow growth, have plateaued or may even be in decline. While that doesn’t sound like a sexy, ripe market, the sheer numbers can’t (and shouldn’t) be ignored. Of the roughly 300,000+ churches in the U.S. alone, roughly 270,000+ are an underserved market. A huge market. So the question lingers: Is your marketing ignoring focusing on targeting this massive market?
Focusing on the Majority
While churches are, in fact, churches, the many articles I’ve written have focused primarily on reaching the top 10 percent (or even less). This time, I’m saying that tapping into this staggeringly large, virtually untouched market needs a focused approach.
Because the average size of a church is right around 90 people, the opportunities for sales are both limited in quantity and revenue more often than not. I contend that there are two simple approaches to making the most of marketing and sales efforts into this numerically significant church space. The first is a shotgun approach to provide low-cost, box sale opportunities that are time sensitive (the deals expire) to pick up the easy sales. The second is to further subdivide the market from those churches that are simply getting by with technology to turn-around churches — a category of churches actively engaged in becoming growth churches again.
Sell Once to Many
With greater than a quarter-million unique churches fitting into the small-church category, targeting the senior pastor or worship leader is not only smart, it’s likely the only staff members you’ll need to reach. The idea of speaking to felt needs is important, as these churches will spend money, but they’ll do so far less frequently.
With Easter coming in just a few weeks of the publication of this article, the last-minute marketing push to this demographic is prudent. From easy, self-installation product sales for replacing aging gear to reminding these non-technical staff of swapping out expendables with fresh replacements, the quick sale is easy and helpful for churches.
For many churches, there are a couple of budget numbers that are helpful in staying under to expedite sales. The first is the sub-$500 sale. Far and away, churches often place no restrictions on processing a purchase order that’s under $500 without the additional step of added authorization. Make a sale in this price point, and you’ll likely have a credit card transaction happening nearly instantly. The second price point is sub-$2,000. It’s a safe number for many churches to allow senior managers/leaders to spend up to this $2k tipping point when important repair/replace decision need to be made quickly. Though less common than the $500 P.O. limit, it’s still a nice way to market products that make an immediate, notable difference for church services.
Of course, capturing these sales contacts is helpful, but I’d further recommend adding a custom field to your CRM database for Typical Weekend Attendance (TWA). This lets your marketing and sales teams know the size of a church prospect/client; helpful for targeted marketing and sales campaigns. <100; 100-500; 500-1,000; 1,000-2,000; 2,000-5,000; 5,000+ are standard TWA ranges to use.
Targeting Turn-Around Churches
A subset within the 90 percent of churches described above are a group called turn-around churches. These are churches that often have new, young leadership actively campaigning to take a church that is either in decline or has stagnated in growth to a new level of community reach and growth.
Here the tact is slightly different. Instead of only focusing on low-cost, fast sales, the felt need is both short- and long-term. Because these are quite typically young pastors, they’re attuned to the value of technology and are interested in leveraging electronic tools to both revamp their image to their community and as a way to be more efficient and effective with a small volunteer-only team of techies.
The short-term sales opportunities are similar to their counterparts in this 90 percent of the demographic; they have repair/replace issues that need solving, too. But because they’re more future-focused in their turn-around efforts, they’re also open to low-cost solutions that get them down the road towards more significant technology purchases once the growth curve has brought in additional revenue. The tweak to the marketing and sales efforts here helps value their self-described turn-around philosophy, applauding them taking the harder, more courageous road towards effective change. Speaking to their short- and longer-term mindset helps them identify with your brand as a potential partner on this journey; something not lost on the lonely who walk this path.
Value Proposition and Value Budgets, Together
As I continually remind our readers, the value proposition is more important than the features and benefits. This is a market where meeting felt needs is the way to more sales and long-term, loyal purchasing. At the same time, the reality of a smaller church requires acknowledging the smaller budgets that are a reality for this demographic.
Those sub-$500 sales are important to all churches — all of them. Yet it is important to identify which portion of the market a marketing campaign is targeting because stopping at the quick, low-cost sale is too short-sighted and leaves money on the table for those churches interested in leveraging technology as part of their roadmap for more effective growth.
Is it too much to ask manufacturers, rep firms and systems integrators to put the minimal effort into subdividing this vertical market into the very real categories that exist? Getting the right message to the right people in the right way at the right time is the crux of good marketing. The house of worship market deserves this kind of attention and deliberate, focused effort if this industry wants to see the revenue opportunities that are available right under the surface.
A former staff member at three mega churches and church technology consultant, Anthony Coppedge has developed a respected reputation as a leader in technical and communications circles within the church marketplace. Reach him at anthony@anthonycoppedge.com or on Twitter at http://www.twitter.com/anthonycoppedge
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Control Rooms Get Smarter with Networked Visual Collaboration
By Peter Bussens
Director of Segment Marketing, Advanced Visualization Systems for Barco The widespread proliferation of CCTV (Closed-Circuit Television) systems can be seen in every walk of life, from crime prevention and emergency services, to utilities operations and transportation management. As technology platforms have migrated to IP-centric networks, it’s become even easier to capture, share and display thousands of video feeds in real time, enabling public agencies to cooperate more efficiently and even partner with private companies to gain access to more information in a timely manner.
But all of this data can be both a blessing and a curse: While a plethora of more detailed information can enrich the quality of decision-making, it can also overwhelm operators if not properly managed. Successful incident handling lies in effectively utilizing this data to make smarter, faster decisions. The key to smoother operations and improved outcomes? Collaboration.
Information Shared is Power Squared
Today’s control room discussions are no longer centered around display wall management. Gone are the days when maximizing pixels, optimizing image layouts, and managing a giant, common operational picture, were the only issues of concern to supervisors. The current trend calls for enhancing collaboration to improve situational awareness, both within and outside the control room.
There is a monumental shift in focus from the display wall to the communications infrastructure which drives it, with the goal of enabling fast, easy distribution of data and video among all stakeholders, from operators to field engineers, from managers to customer service reps. The most robust solutions empower users to not only create and share dynamic perspectives of events and situations, but to facilitate widespread collaboration, which ultimately leads to better decision-making in mission-critical environments.
Real-Time Image Distribution
The distributed architecture of networked visualization, by its very nature, enables users to capture and share video content with an unlimited number of display stations via a standard Ethernet network. Any user on the network can mirror content from the main display on their own workstation, manipulate image windows to create different perspectives, and “push” the customized content to the main video wall – or any other networked display – for further analysis and action. This fluid, continuous process enables all users to simultaneously share information, a key advantage in highly volatile environments like emergency response, traffic management and power generation.
The IP network platform enables true shared situational awareness, providing insights far beyond what any single person can see in a situation. Networked collaboration extends knowledge from the individual to the team in real-time, enriching the opportunities for analysis and problem resolution.
Playback Essential for Knowledge-Building
The most robust net-centric visualization platforms provide screen recording, archiving and playback capabilities, enabling managers to review past events for in-depth analysis in debriefing sessions. The ability to show in detail how an incident unfolded and was resolved offers a valuable learning opportunity for control room personnel and other stakeholders.
This functionality is also useful for training control room operators and other staff responsible for monitoring, assessing and responding to situations. Again, by visually re-enacting past events, control room supervisors can educate current and incoming staff on how to handle critical situations, enabling them to better anticipate and respond to incidents as a team.
Anything In, Anything Out Foundation
Any networked visualization platform should be designed using an open Application Programming Interface (API) with conformation to communications standards to facilitate easy integration with other operational systems, commercial video camera systems and ancillary products used in the configuration of a comprehensive networked visualization solution. For example, in a security and surveillance center, all of an organization’s disparate physical devices can be seamlessly integrated to form a global intelligent security system which enables users to monitor, manage, and collaborate on situations. The result: one large common operating view of all situations and their current status distributed to any display on the network.
The “anything in, anything out” capability found in industry-leading software and controllers enables operators to quickly view any content from any source, on any part of the display wall, as well as any networked display. This vastly improves efficiency, expands and enhances views and facilitates collaboration to reduce response times to incidents.
Scalable, Cost-Effective Growth
Scalability of a networked visualization platform is also a big bonus when it comes to exploiting the latest cloud-based architectures. By foregoing the typical chassis-based architecture for today’s IP-centric platforms, companies can expand their network by simply adding an unlimited number of I/Os by linking to additional, external components. In fact, with the proliferation of high-speed Ethernet networks and anticipated wider-scale application of the AVB standard, opportunities for growth are virtually unlimited.
By using the existing IP network infrastructure, a universal visualization platform can transcend the control room to make information omnipresent throughout the organization – reducing installation and maintenance costs. An IP platform also enables remote asset management, allowing proactive control room maintenance and support for additional cost savings.
The result: increased system flexibility, wider area information sharing and collaboration and a clear, cost-effective technology migration path. In other words, just what every control room manager needs for performance and peace of mind.
Peter Bussens currently guides the company’s worldwide market development and long-term business strategies in the control rooms and virtual reality markets. He has been with Barco for more than 13 years, holding various positions in market development and product management. During this time, he has been deeply involved in bringing to market Barco’s visualization products and control room software for the broadcast, telecommunications, public utilities, process control, traffic control, surveillance and command & control applications industries, developing a profound understanding of the visualization needs in 24/7 mission critical environments. Bussens holds a Master’s Degree in Industrial Engineering – Electronics from IHR Gent, Belgium. He has also served as a Director in the Members’ Board of the International Association of Broadcasting Manufacturers (IABM) since August 2011. Barco released a video this week about smart cities, which you can see here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=F5UTz4uIuaw&list=UU2zgx2gJoSzTCx9PW186Wtw&index=2
For more information about Barco, click here: http://www.barco.com
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South by Southwest Interactive Recognizes User Interface Advances
By Phil Wright
DisplayDaily The recently concluded South by Southwest Interactive (SXSW Interactive, March 8-12, 2013, Austin, Tex., USA) has awarded its Breakout Digital Trend Award to Leap Motion for its Leap Motion Controller hardware and software. This is scheduled to ship to consumers beginning May 13, 2013 with pre-ordering available now at a price of $79.99. Leap Motion’s approach to promoting their user interface technology has been to provide demos of their device (photo below) illustrating that it is responsive and accurate for 10 finger tracking. They also have seeded a large number of developers with sample units, and discussed the applicability of their hardware and software for embedded applications in notebook and desktop PCs, mobile phones and tablets and other devices.
To date, Leap Motion has shipped more than 12,000 devices to developers to stimulate adoption of its motion control technology. Mike Zagorsek, vice president product marketing at Leap demonstrated the operation of the Leap Motion Controller at SXSW as shown in the video here:
Source: Engadget
The Leap Motion Controller consists of the device hardware, a software development kit (SDK) for developers, and an app store named Airspace that will launch in May when consumer device shipments begin.
As an input device for a notebook or desktop PC, the Leap Motion Controller acquires and tracks all ten fingers of the user in a 2x2x2 foot cube over the device as illustrated in the video. The Leap developers believe that the Leap Motion Controller can become the preferred input device for 3D content creation and manipulation, and for navigating 2D content on large displays where touch sensing is not appropriate. In addition to pointing, the Motion Controller can be used to select, tap, swipe, poke and enter gestures.
Leap’s CEO Michael Buckwald has stated that he does not envision the Leap Motion Controller replacing the keyboard and mouse input paradigm when the device launches on May 13. However, Syntellia, Inc. the developer of the Fleksy text input application was also at SXSW this week showing its software working with the Leap Motion Controller to provide gesture-based typing input. It’s too soon to assess whether the Leap controller will become as ubiquitous as keyboards, mice and trackpads. However, given the market acceptance of devices such as Microsoft’s Kinect, and consumers’ interest in improved user interfaces for their consumer electronics products, we look forward to continuing new and hopefully improved user interface approaches to come.
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Share Article Back to Top When Size Matters: Projection Screens
By Brian Rhatigan
Almo Pro A/V, Business Development Manager Larger flat panels, namely 70” and larger, are becoming more and more affordable, including a 90” model from Sharp coming in right around the $10k mark. We are talking sizes and prices that were, until now, reserved for projectors and projection screens. Many will agree that projectors still have their place and will continue to have it.
When thinking about commercial applications, high-end conference rooms and fancy sports bars may be the most impacted by this shift as the price of larger flat panels is now falling to the point where they would be comparable to a good mid-range projector and screen. There are still many applications where projectors will remain strong. K-12 is a good example of this, where often budgets are restricted and projectors can be had for less than $1,000. Additionally, many classrooms are now outfitted with interactive white boards which, by design, require a projector.
Further, there are still many venues where a very large screen is required, such as lecture halls, auditoriums, and large churches. With a 152” plasma display costing around $500k, the cost of a high end projector and screen is much easier to swallow at this point, and can still produce images significantly larger. On the flip side, there are projectors that are small enough to fit in your pocket that can project images as large at 70”, perfect for those on the go or for mobile presenters.
For the purpose of this discussion I am talking projectors, specifically projection screens, and determining the proper size screen for a particular space. According to InfoComm’s CTS Exam Guide, the maximum viewing distance is based on the amount of detail in the image. For the majority of the viewing public, the viewing distance should be no greater than 150 times the character height. For video, the closest viewer should be no closer than the width of the screen and the farthest viewer should be no farther than eight times the height of the screen. For computer data, the closest viewer should be no closer than the width of the screen and the farthest viewer should be no farther than six times the height of the screen.
Using the same math, you can determine an appropriate screen size based on viewer distance.
Examine the following formula:
S(H) = D / S(L)
S(H) = Screen Height, D = Distance of Farthest Viewer, S(L) = Screen Detail Factor (See Below)
4 – Engineering Drawings, Medical Images, Very Fine Detail
6 – Web Pages, Spreadsheets, Simple Presentations
8 – Motion Video
So if you are designing a conference room where the farthest viewer will be 24 feet from the screen, and content will be primarily general presentations such as PowerPoint or Web pages, you would calculate the screen height by dividing 24 by 6, which is 4 feet. Based on a 4-foot screen height, that gives you roughly an 84” diagonal if you are dealing with a 4:3 aspect ratio, or roughly a 94” diagonal screen in a 16:10 aspect ratio.
Now, you also have to take into account the ceiling height in the room. Generally, the bottom of the screen should be approximately 40” to 48” above the floor, so you will need clearance for the area underneath the screen, the height of the screen and housing, as well as the distance required for any projector lens offset. If you are working in a room with a low ceiling and you are not able to have clearance for all of these factors, then you will be limited as far as the size of screen that will physically fit in the space. In this case you would naturally try and find the largest possible screen for the area.
So in summary, the next time you are trying to determine an appropriate screen size, there are two main factors you need to consider. First are the dimensions of the audience area and second is the projection format or detail of content that will be displayed. The above formula will prove very useful once you have both pieces of information. Remember that in certain instances, you may be restricted by ceiling height, which in that case you will just want to find the largest screen height that will fit while considering the distance from the floor and projector offset.
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Share Article Back to Top WAVE Feature: Marla Suttenberg, A Woman in AV Pioneer
By Jennifer Willard
Founder, Women in AV I had the honor of interviewing Marla Suttenberg, 2013 Women in CE Award winner and owner/principal of Sapphire Marketing, a manufacturing representative firm, offering leading-edge AV solutions to both the commercial and residential side of the industry in the Northeast. She is an inspiration to all of us women who want to one day be a female business-owner, especially in a male-dominated market where few women, or men for that matter, have the insight, wisdom and experience she brings to the table about both Pro and CE sides of our industry. She's a firecracker and someone who truly makes you question, “What IS it stopping you from living your dreams?!”
Jennifer Willard: Please tell us about your background. When and how did you get started in the AV industry? How did it feel being a woman in a male-dominated industry? Have you seen any evolution over the years and where do you feel we are at now?
Marla Suttenberg: It was a total fluke – I fell into it. It was the summer of 1978 after I graduated college, and I was deciding whether to go to graduate school to be a psychologist. But I also needed to make money, and I was presented with an opportunity to open a NYC sales office for a Midwest ‘filmstrip’ manufacturer as the inside sales coordinator.
After a year of being on the ‘inside,’ I was fortunate that my boss thought I’d make a great outside salesperson as well, and after a few ‘old salesman pointers,’ sent me on my way. At that point there were hardly any women in the industry, especially not outside sales representatives. Luckily, I enjoyed being out of the office, meeting new people, and talking about how my products were the best on the planet and could solve the world’s communication and training challenges.
Being a road-warrior took practice, and sometimes nerves of steel, and I learned to feel comfortable eating at a restaurant by myself, walking down a dark hallway to a hotel room, and even sitting at the bar to have a drink (with my head in a book of course). My kids can’t believe that I’ve actually been to movies by myself while on the road!
My most humbling experience was when one of the larger NYC dealers invited me to lunch to get to know me better. The check for lunch came, and I let it sit on it the table for a few minutes since he was the one who invited me (and he was the man and I was the woman??). After a few more awkward seconds, which felt like an hour, I picked up the bill and offered to ‘split’ it with him. Hey, I thought that was ok since I was used to going ‘dutch’ with my current boyfriend at the time. He proceeded to lecture me on how it was MY responsibility to pay, since HE was the customer. I was so embarrassed and realized how wrong I was… The good news is, I certainly learned a lesson, and he’s still one of my customers today!
Most of our commercial dealerships that were family-owned were often passed down to the ‘sons’ in the family – I can only name one or two daughters who currently run their family businesses. The residential dealers are generally still first-generation, given that it’s a newer marketplace, and the overwhelming majority of the owners are men.
When I first started, most women (including myself) were more like ‘detail’ salespeople, i.e., we’d check the pricing station to make sure they were current, and re-stack literature racks to make sure our brochures and spec sheets were up to date. Today, our roles need to be more “consultative” and technical in order to succeed. A dealer has the Internet for pricing and product specs – what they need from us is suggestions on ways in which they can become more profitable with our products, and us sharing interesting applications that other people have been successful with.
Early on, I experienced a great deal of satisfaction when I knew more about my products than my customers did – which seemed to make them respect me even more. Even today, some men seem surprised when I know what I’m talking about when taking a deeper dive into a product/application discussion. I probably try twice as hard to be good, but get twice as much respect in return.
I believe that the IT channel has brought more women to the A/V side — perhaps because there are actual college courses being offered? Although I think these women are mostly on the end-user side within the corporations and/or universities.
JW: Please tell us about your business, it's history, how you've evolved, what market you serve and what you do for the AV industry?
MS: Sapphire Marketing is a manufacturer's representative in the AV/IT market, supporting both commercial and residential integrators, specifiers and users in the northeast. We celebrated our twelvth year in business this past January. Since I’m responsible for both the commercial and residential space, I have separate sales forces covering each market. I pride myself on having the most experienced, knowledgeable and resourceful salespeople in the industry. And of course, I have women in both channels! I also have a small office staff to handle inside sales support for the dealers, and another person who runs the company from an administrative standpoint. One of those women, Lainie Mataras, has a very important and unique role for a manufacturer’s rep. She is Sapphire’s official consultant liaison, a position most of my manufacturers’ don’t even have. This is such an important position for us, as many of the global, influential consultants have headquarters in the northeast. Prior to joining Sapphire seven years ago, Lainie spent 14 years at Crestron, primarily dealing with the consultant community, so she is very well known and respected by all.
We support and attend all of the national industry trade shows, and I’m a member of InfoComm, CEDIA, NSCA, CEA and of course, Women in AV and Women in CE. I’m on the board of directors and the membership chairperson of IPRO, a professional sales representative organization. I’m very passionate about my support and endorsement of symbiotic relationships between independent manufacturer’s reps, and the manufacturers who hire them.
JW: How do you see the AV industry in being welcoming and/or encouraging women? What, if anything, do we need to do to bring or open the possibilities for women to want to join us and make a career of AV?
MS: When I first started, and even now to a certain extent, I struggled with my male clients who would preface our conversations with "How are your kids?" or, "Sorry to bother you with a business question, but…" I then decided that although it was great that I was ‘friends’ with my clients, but I needed to present a more professional front so they would respect my position as a businessperson. And I knew they didn’t really care about my kids anyway, nor would they ever preface a conversation with a male counterpart with the same question.
I think companies need to invest in intern programs to recruit bright young women, and look to the local colleges and universities to recruit candidates. Some of these kids will even work for free in exchange for college credit and to build up their resumes. Target the MIS, Engineering, Business, Theater departments — anything that involves IT, communication, facilities, etc.
I also think that now’s a great time for women to enter the field as it’s become much more mainstream – who can actually ‘survive’ in today’s fast-paced information world without having a fairly decent understanding of how computers & tablets work, IT networks, streaming content, cloud-based services etc.? Even our kid’s schools are promoting a BYOD agenda.
Many of the women I encountered throughout my career were generally on the end-user side, and most of them came from the production or broadcast arena. Today, the majority of women I meet come from the business and/or IT channel. One of my closest industry friends, Elizabeth Taaffee Collins from Sonic Foundry, actually worked for the Venture Capital company that invested in them. She had a business degree, along with an innate understanding of technology, which are a very powerful combination.
JW: You are elite in being involved in both the consumer and professional side of our industry. What are the differences, similarities, and where do you see the two markets headed?
MS: Elite — more like masochistic!? It’s like running two entirely separate companies. The dealer channels think and react differently, the competitive landscapes are totally different, ‘best practices’ are totally different, and the personnel needed to be successful are also totally different. What’s similar is the use of technology to automate, communicate, entertain and be more productive.
When I first started and couldn’t afford two separate sales teams, it was a disaster! The dealers hated my reps, and vice versa! Fortunately, as I mentioned earlier, I now have salespeople supporting both markets (including very competent women in each team of course), which makes it even more interesting, as the worlds are beginning to collide.
There has always been the situation when the ‘rich guy’ wanted his or her ‘home guy’ to do their boardroom, or an executive wanted his or her ‘work guy’ to do their home, but the boundaries seem to be blurring now. I’ve heard the term ‘light commercial’ used to describe some of the new work the residential dealers are doing, like sports bars, clubs, retail, etc. But I have a fair amount of them who have also progressed into serious commercial integration and conferencing projects as well.
I’m fortunate in that I’m able to leverage one channel over the other, based on what’s going on in the real world. For example, after September 11th there was a lot of ‘nesting,’ and people wanting to spend more time in their homes, which resulted in them spending more money for entertainment, security and comfort. The commercial business was at a standstill.
After the ‘crash’ of ’08, there were less Wall Street bonuses to go around, which meant less money being spent on luxury or entertainment items. We did, however, see an increase in lighting, HVAC and shading automation systems because they saved energy, which was satisfying from both a financial and social standpoint. In the commercial world, the Analog Sunset provided us with huge opportunities as corporations and universities rushed to become digitally compatible with the systems they needed to communicate with in the future.
Both channels have their challenges and struggles when immersed in each other’s worlds. I think it’s hard for a commercial dealer to deal with a homeowner in his/her personal space, since they’re used to dealing with employees of a company who aren’t personally invested in their workspaces. And I think it’s frustrating for a residential dealer to deal with purchasing agents, ‘low bid’ mentalities, and often times having to work through general contractors, etc. in a commercial project to get paid.
JW: Most importantly, you won the 2013 Women in CE Award for your achievements and leadership in our industry. What does it mean to you to be recognized, what would you like people to know about being a what it takes to be a women leader in our industry, and what advice do you have for women who want to follow in your footsteps?
2013 Women in CE Legacy Awards
MS: Initially, I was intimidated by the four other women who were honored along with myself for this award, because they worked for huge billion dollar corporations and associations. But then I realized how cool it was that our “niche” market was actually being recognized and applauded!
My advice would be if you have a passion for the technology or business side — you should absolutely pursue the industry. People are still surprised when I open my mouth and spew my technical bits and bytes of wisdom about a product or an application. Right now, technology is hot, and so much more mainstream than it was when I started. iPads, Android, smart appliances, etc. are just a fact of everyone’s lives.
As much as you or I don’t want to hear this, residential dealers are often looking for women salespeople because of the end-user wife influence over the decision-making process for their home. Yes, the majority of the spouses are still women, who stereotypically hate ugly speakers, displays and wall ‘acne.’ There have been quite a few very successful female salespeople who can influence the buyer and sell the benefits of all the nasty stuff their husbands want to install in their home.
From a personal standpoint, there were definitely bumps along the way — like the time my high school daughter defiantly replied, when asked what she wanted to be when she grew up…”a housewife so I can be home with my kids, and my husband will make all the money.” Ouch! Insert knife in back, add salt and turn slowly… The happy ending to that is, she graduated college with high honors, and was recruited by multiple firms to work in supply chain (normally a male-dominated position), and is currently happily working, excelling in all she does and making good money. Life is about balance. I made the decision that I would be a better mother if I had a career outside of the home, and I still think it was the best decision I made for my family and me. Technology is exciting, it’s what our kids and society are weaned on, it’s mainstream, it’s a necessity and it’s cool.
JW: What advice would you have for women who want to be a business owner such as yourself, what do they need to know and do?
MS: My best advice is to play to your strengths, and hire the experts to do the rest. I have very talented business people that take care of the operations of the company, which frees me up to do what I love the most — working with my employees and customers to help solve problems and challenges they might be having. Hire the best people you can afford, and make sure they have the same passion and work ethic as you do. They are the face of your company, and can make or break your next opportunity. Although I love all my employees equally, my women employees are my most organized and responsible with reports, return calls, etc.
I had no formal training or experience in running a business; I just ‘borrowed’ the practices I learned from my prior bosses and applied the ones that motivated me when I was an employee. My basic motto is to treat my employees the way that I liked to be treated as an employee, and all will be good. So far, so good.
You have to take risk to get the reward.
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It couldn’t be more fitting for Women’s History Month to have such an amazing woman and business owner to teach us you can do whatever you want and that you will make mistakes along the way, but, with an awesome sense of humor — everything will work out!
To learn more about what Marla and Marketing Sapphire can do for you, visit http://www.sapphiremarketing.com and find them on Facebook at http://www.facebook.com/SapphireMkt
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AV People: Sam Taylor of Almo Pro A/V
By Molly Stillman
rAVe Director of Marketing and New Business Development Sam Taylor: Now, that’s a name people know in the AV industry.
Sam, who is the current COO and executive vice president of Almo Pro A/V, is one of those people that you just can’t help but like and respect.
Sam started in AV in 1987 as a regional sales manager for Electrograph Systems. He worked his way up through the ranks and was president of the company from 1995-2009. Sadly, in 2009, Electrograph suffered at the hands of the recession and went out of business.
But Sam didn’t let that stop him.
“I was so fortunate at the time. I was able to take 22 of my best people from Electrograph and bring them with me to start the Almo Pro A/V division,” Sam said. “And in just four years, we’ve built the Almo Pro A/V division from $0 to over $160 million a year. But it’s all been because of the people. They’re great, knowledgable people and we started with a strong and solid team.”
What you may not know about Sam is that he’s not only been successful professionally, but also outside of the “9 to 5” – as a swimmer.
As a little kid, Sam took up swimming and playing baseball, but quickly, Sam learned that he was much better at swimming than baseball and began to focus all of his energy in the pool.
He went on to swim in high school and then in college at Johns Hopkins University. His first THREE years at Johns Hopkins he, along with his teammates, were able to bring home THREE Division III NCAA national championships.
It was while he was at Johns Hopkins that he met his wife, Blair. They were the same year in school and both swam on the team, but they didn’t begin dating until after college.
Sam took a break from swimming shortly after college and focused on his career, his new wife and raising three wonderful children, Lauren, Nick and Leah.
But, it wouldn’t be long before Sam knew he needed to jump back in the pool.
Sam continued to swim throughout his adulthood and swam competitively until five years ago.
It was in 2008 when Sam took FOURTH at Masters Nationals (that means he was fourth in the COUNTRY), but he unfortunately experienced a semi-career-ending injury.
“It was 2008. I was swimming the 100 fly in Masters Nationals and I knew that I had done something to my shoulder during the swim,” recalled Sam. “My daughter Lauren had come down to Austin to see me swim. Afterwards, we went out to dinner to celebrate and I had ordered a margarita. When I went to squeeze the lime with my thumb and forefinger, I almost passed out from the pain. I knew I had done something bad.”
It turns out Sam had torn his shoulder in four places, thus ending his competitive swimming career.
Now, Sam continues to swim to stay in shape… and eat more.
But it hasn’t stopped there.
A few years ago, Sam had developed a relationship with the head coach of the Johns Hopkins swim team. They’d get together for lunch a couple times a year and Sam would check to see how the team was doing.
One day coach asked Sam if he wanted to help out. And since then, Sam has coached the Johns Hopkins team on a volunteer basis about two days a week.
When he stated coaching, the teams were finishing about 10th in the country.
Today, the men’s team is ranked 3rd and the women’s team is ranked 5th. In fact, as I was interviewing Sam, he was in Houston, Tex. for the NCAA Division III championships. The team was almost in first place at the time of press. Woo hoo!
But it’s not just the swimming success that makes Sam proud.
“I am so proud of our women’s team,” he said. “Last year our women's team finished with the second highest GPA of any women's Division III swim team in the country. We have one girl on our team who is a Rhode's Scholar and one who has the HIGHEST GPA of any Division III swimmer in the nation. She has a 3.97 GPA and she is a molecular biology major. But what that all tells me is these kids work so hard in the classroom and so hard in the pool, and it’s really a fulfilling hobby to have.”
It’s not just the enjoyment that Sam has received from swimming and coaching all these years, it’s the lessons he’s learned and the experience he’s gained.
“There are a lot of similarities between managing people and coaching a team,” said Sam. “You try to get people to believe in themselves and their abilities – stretch for their goals – in a good way. And honestly, my philosophy in life is you learn more from the failures than the successes. One of the most important things sports teaches you is how to lose. In life, you’re going to fail. You’re going to lose. Bad things are going to happen. While winning is nice, it’s not about that – it’s about how you react when those bad things happen that defines you. It teaches you to carry on and do the right things.
“It’s all about making lemonade out of lemons.”
I couldn’t agree more. I think many of us could learn a lot of somethings from Sam.
Molly Stillman is the director of marketing and new business development for rAVe [Publications]. Reach her at molly@ravepubs.com
Do you know someone in the industry with an interesting story that should be featured in our monthly column? Email Molly and let her know.
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Recently from rAVe's BlogSquad Back to Top This Year's Digital Signage Expo Breaks 2012 Record The tenth annual Digital Signage Expo (DSE) show held last month in Las Vegas and we covered it LIVE via our rAVe NOW Microsite — including posting more than 350 videos, 20 blogs and over 350 tweets. And it can all be seen here: http://www.rAVeNOWdse.com.
Show management has just confirmed that the new benchmarks established at DSE 2013 last month include:
- 4,080 qualified attendees (excluding exhibitors)
- Record conference attendance
- Record international attendance from a total of 77 countries
- Record 211 exhibitors
- A record show floor space
We've put all the DSE stats together in an easy to read Infographic here: https://www.ravepubs.com/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=10237:infographic-dse-2013-stats&catid=253:rave-infographics&Itemid=577
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4K×2K LCD TV Panel Shipments Expected to Reach 2.6M in 2013, NPD DisplaySearch Reports According to the latest NPD DisplaySearch Quarterly Large Area TFT Panel Shipment Report, TFT LCD panel suppliers are forecast to ship 2.6 million 4K×2K LCD TV panels (also known as Ultra HD) worldwide in 2013, up more than 40-fold from 63 thousand in 2012.
Figure 1: 4K×2K LCD TV Panel Shipment Forecast by Size (Q4’12-Q4’13)
Source: NPD DisplaySearch Quarterly Large Area TFT Panel Shipment Report
TFT LCD panel suppliers play a pivotal role in 4K×2K LCD TV adoption, providing innovative cost-effective technology solutions that will meet the anticipated demand for these devices. Specifically, they are focused on leveraging new technologies, such as high-transmittance cell designs, high-output driver integrated circuits (ICs), and high-efficiency backlight units and integrated up-scaling circuits for 4K×2K panels.
“To date, Innolux Corp. has been the most aggressive panel manufacturer in this market segment, developing a full line-up of 4K×2K panels in the 39" to 85" range,” noted David Hsieh, NPD DisplaySearch Vice President, Greater China Market. “Despite this, 4K×2K panel manufacturers’ shipments are primarily focused on 50", 55"/58”, and 65" sizes, which are expected to have the highest volume shipments, especially in China.”
Panel manufacturers are also looking to accelerate 4K×2K panel adoption by strengthening their relationships with LCD TV brands with more aggressive manufacturing and sales efforts.
Table 1: 4K×2K LCD TV Panel Suppliers and Customers in 2013
Source: NPD DisplaySearch Quarterly Large Area TFT Panel Shipment Report
Hsieh added, “4K×2K LCD TV is the newest TV technology available, and in order for it to be successful, it will be critical for the supply chain to avoid falling behind when making their purchases, even if content is still scarce. Some panel makers are also working with design houses to develop circuits built into the panel, to enable up-scaling of HD to 4K×2K content. This will help to drive the 4K×2K LCD TV market and encourage panel makers, especially those that have already started design-in work with TV brands in 2013.”
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Share Article Back to Top NSCA Executive Director Chuck Wilson Publishes New Book NSCA Executive Director Chuck Wilson has authored a book titled “Under the Social Influence,” which focuses on specific influences that can impact a successful life and career. All book proceeds will benefit the NSCA Education Foundation, which helps further the education of systems integration professionals.
Wilson reflects on the past 30 years of owning and managing both corporate and non-profit companies, and discusses through humor and real-life stories the impact of cross-generational employees in the workplace. This no-nonsense, tough-love playbook for those struggling to get ahead and those under the influence of negative social situations is written primarily for younger generations entering the workforce.
“I’ve been fortunate enough to be invited into our members companies to evaluate organizational issues where I witnessed so many of their younger employees struggling with work and life balance issues, situational awareness, financial woes, reputation management, workplace drama and of course the addiction to social media,” said Wilson. “After hearing similar stories across different companies, I decided to put my thoughts in writing to share with all generations. Likewise, I’ve seen some very impressive examples of doing it right… we can learn a great deal from those stories as well.”
Wilson's new book is available for purchase at a variety of online retailers including Amazon and Barnes & Noble. Those interested in purchasing bulk orders should visit http://www.800CEOread.com to receive additional discounts.
Wilson will also provide opportunities for presentations or workshops based on the book. For more information on “Under the Social Influence” or to purchase the book, visit http://www.underthesocialinfluence.com. ;
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Almo's E4 Chicago Stop on March 28 to be Biggest Ever – Kayye to Keynote Less than two weeks away, Almo today revealed details about new exhibiting manufacturers and product launches taking place at its first E4 AV training and networking event of the year. Registration is still open for E4 Chicago on March 28, which will feature 32 carefully selected manufacturing partners, hundreds of new products — including many InfoComm 2013 previews — and 12 educational sessions, all worth InfoComm CTS Renewal Units (RUs).
To learn more details about E4 Chicago, view this recent interview with Melody Craigmyle, vice president of marketing for Almo Professional A/V: https://www.ravepubs.com/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=10133:almo-e4-av-tour-is-open-for-registration&catid=87:proav-edition&Itemid=180
The newest exhibiting manufacturers and their product highlights include:
- Elo Touch Systems, supplier of touch-enabled products is unveiling the 4201 42-inch touch display with an integrated PC and bringing its new 70-inch Multi-Touch Interactive Digital Signage Display.
- Hiperwall, producer of high-performance, low-cost videowall software that can display a wide variety of content with unmatched speed, flexibility and functionality in extremely high resolution, is exhibiting in partnership with NEC Solutions and Premier Mounts to show a complete videowall solution.
- Peerless AV, is hosting a virtual Slam Dunk contest with its fully integrated kiosk solution that includes a 90-inch Sharp Professional display, integrated audio, Xbox Kinect and software program that simulates a slam dunk contest. Peerless will also demo its HD Flow wireless transmission solutions.
- TouchSystems, provider of touch-enabled monitors, kiosks and displays, is bringing a 55-inch Multi-Touch Monitor with multi-user capability, which encourages collaboration and interactivity. It is being shown on a Peerless stand/mount and is powered by Sherlock Systems Media Players.
- Rane Corporation, an established provider of problem-solving pro audio tools, affordably priced with unequalled reliability and customer service, is showcasing its newest audio technology, the HAL System, an open-architecture DSP product for expert room combining, paging and distributed audio systems for meeting and classrooms, hotels, retail, conference centers and restaurants.
- Samsung Hospitality, provider of the 26-inch to 55-inch, all-LED line of televisions for the hospitality industry, is showing televisions withPro:Idiom, an encryption technology which securely delivers HD and video-on-demand signals without the need for a set top box in each room to protect content from piracy.
Other new products being shown during E4 Chicago:
- Sharp’s 32-inch 4K LCD Ultra High Definition Display with 3,840 x 2,160-pixel resolution.
- Planar’s UltraLux 80-inch display with a zero bezel, infinity edge-to-edge glass design configured for multiple solutions within digital signage applications.
- Samsung’s UE55C with the System on Chip (SoC), which eliminates the need for a PC to play back content by running on an embedded chip within the display.
Also, rAVe founder, Gary Kayye, will be opening the E4 AV Tour with his Kayye's Krystal Ball keynote where he'll talk about what's going to happen with projection, flat-panel, videoconferencing, digital signage and control systems over the next three years. It's all free and is on March 28 at the Oakbrook Drury Lane Conference Center and runs from 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. It is an entirely free event, including parking, for Almo Pro A/V’s reseller, integrator and consultant partners. To register, go to http://www.e4avtour.com/
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Share Article Back to Top Dante Virtual Soundcard V3.2.0 Just Released with WDM Support Audinate has announced enhancements to its Dante Virtual Soundcard software for Windows. The Dante Virtual Soundcard allows your PC or Mac to connect your preferred audio application directly to a Dante audio network. Dante Virtual Soundcard uses the standard Ethernet port on your computer to communicate with a network of other Dante enabled devices — no special hardware is required.
With the new Windows Driver Model (WDM) mode in V3.2.0, Dante Virtual Soundcard for Windows now adds support for applications including iTunes, Windows Media Player, Skype and more. PC users can play out or record audio from these applications with professional sound quality.
Additional features:
- Choice of 64×64 ASIO or 8×8 WDM mode (presents as four stereo Windows WDM soundcards)
- Choice of 44.1kHz or 48kHz sample rate in WDM mode
- Windows 8 32- and 64 bit support
- Integrated online help
- Installation of Apple Bonjour service no longer required
- Clock performance improvements
Download Dante Virtual Soundcard V3.2.0 for Windows at the Audinate website: http://www.audinate.com/DanteVirtualSoundcard
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Share Article Back to Top TruAudio Launches Dual 70V and 8-Ohm Combined Landscape Speaker TruAudio's new Acoustiscape is a landscape speaker that's compatible with both 70-volt and 8-ohm amps (the only one we know of, by the way). While most companies have a 70-volt or an 8-ohm landscape speaker, TruAudio combined them into one speaker that uses a switch on the back to switch the speaker to whichever system your whole house amp is using. And, with the 70-volt setting, you can daisy-chain the wire from speaker to speaker.
The in-ground mounting design gives it full range of motion so you can position the Acoustiscape and direct the sound exactly where they want it to go. With a two-way design, the Acoustiscape utilizes a 4.5” injected polypropylene woofer and ¾” soft silk dome tweeter and includes a 14 inch (355mm) metal ground stake. The Acoustiscape wiring is all concealed in the ground stake (just like any landscape lighting system has), so nothing is exposed to the elements. And, it's all housed in a non-corrosive sealed enclosure that TruAudio says makes it waterproof, weatherproof and impervious to the elements.
Here are all the specs: http://truaudio.com/products/8/Outdoor_Speakers/AS-1
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Share Article Back to Top IED Licenses Audinate for Dante Innovative Electronic Designs (IED) has licensed Audinate's Dante digital-media networking technology and will incorporate Dante into several new products in 2013 and beyond. Audinate's patented Dante solution is a media networking solution suite designed to transport many channels of high-resolution, uncompressed, low-latency digital media over relatively long distances and to multiple locations using a standard 100 Mbps or 1 GB Ethernet network. It has become the solution of choice for a variety of professional applications because it delivers tightly synchronized, sample-accurate playback while simplifying installation and configuration of AV networks.
IED is a division of Mitek – the parent company of Atlas Sound, Soundolier, MTX, ETA and a dozen other ProAV and HomeAV audio-centric companies. Audinate's Dante has been licensed by over 25 companies in the ProAV and HomeAV space including Yamaha, Extron, Bosch, Harman, Peavey, Shure and Stewart Audio.
You can see the entire list of licensees here: http://www.audinate.com/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=343
IED is here: http://www.iedaudio.comp
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Share Article Back to Top Sharp Intros Two New XGA Projectors Sharp's new PG-LX3500 and PG-LX3000 are XGA (1024×768) projectors using TI's BrilliantColor Technology 3D-Ready format. They offer a brightness spec of up to 3,500 lumens (PG-LX3500). Weighing less than 6 pounds, they're ultra-portable, and are aimed at schools and businesses where projectors are frequently moved from room to room. These models join the PG-LW3500 and PG-LW3000 WXGA projectors to complete the new series lineup.
Both projectors have an HDMI and VGA input and include a 1.2x optical zoom lens. They also have LAN control content sending capabilities.
You can get all the specs here: http://www.sharp-pdd.com/Home/Passthroughs/SharpStartLoginPage/tabid/56/Default.aspx?returnurl=%2fdefault.aspx
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Share Article Back to Top Extron Now Shipping Three-Input, Compact, HDCP-Compliant Scaler Extron is now shipping its new DSC 301 HD, a compact HDCP-compliant video scaler. This scaler has an HDMI input, a configurable high resolution analog input, a composite video input and an HDMI output. Featuring an advanced scaling engine with 30-bit processing and 1080i deinterlacing, the DSC 301 HD delivers uncompromised picture quality for output resolutions up to 1920×1200, including 1080p and 2K. It includes EDID Minder, automatic input switching and simplifies system connections by embedding audio from one of the three stereo inputs onto the HDMI output.
The DSC 301 HD offers several features that enhance and simplify AV system setup and operation. For HDMI signals with protected content, Key Minder authenticates and maintains continuous HDCP encryption between input sources and displays to ensure quick and reliable switching. EDID Minder ensures that the display's capabilities are communicated to connected video sources to obtain an optimal image. Front panel controls, intuitive on-screen menus, plus USB and RS-232 connections provide flexible control and monitoring capability.
To view a product video and for more information, please visit http://www.extron.com/dsc301hdpr
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Share Article Back to Top Pakedge Intros Eight-Port Switch Pakedge Device & Software today announced the introduction of its S8Pe — an Eight Port Gigabit Unmanaged PoE and PoE+ Switch, which supports up to four ports with PoE+ power or up to eight ports with full gigabit PoE (Power over Ethernet).
The S8Pe can deliver up to 31.5 watts per port to four ports, making it ideal for use with high-power wireless access points and touch panels, high-definition IP cameras, HDMI-over-IP transmitters, home automation PoE+ controllers and other devices that require PoE+ operation and gigabit Ethernet connectivity.
The Pakedge S8Pe is equipped with eight auto-speed-sensing 10/100/1000 Mbps ports. It offers plug-and-play operation without any software to configure. The S8Pe meets 802.3at and 802.3af standards and features Intelligent Endspan PoE Detection – it will not turn on until it detects a valid PoE signature from the devices connected downstream. This useful feature protects against damage to non-compliant equipment.
Housed in a 1U metal enclosure with supplied rack-mount brackets and front-panel indicator lights, the S8Pe's connections are all from the back panel for easy cable access in a structured wiring panel, equipment rack or A/V cabinets. The S8Pe is also equipped with a power switch for easy on-off access.
Here are the specs: http://www.pakedge.com/docs/S8PeBrochure.pdf
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Share Article Back to Top Kramer Intros VS-808TP 8×8 Twisted Pair Matrix Switcher Kramer's new VS−808TP 8X8 is a twisted pair matrix switcher with eight inputs and eight outputs for remote connection with the TP−133/TP−134 transmitter/receiver pair. An additional, switchable VGA, stereo audio and RS232 local input (built−in transmitter) and output (built−in receiver) allows direct connection of the signals (analog video up to WUXGA, audio and RS232) with these compatible units.
A two−line LCD display shows separate routing information of video, audio or RS232 signals. The unit is controlled via its front panel buttons, RS232, RS485 and Ethernet. It also includes rack ears.
All the specs are here: http://www.kramerus.com/
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Share Article Back to Top Utah Scientific Debuts 4K Routing Switchers Utah Scientific has launched a series of 6 Gbps UHD-SDI matrix switcher that supports new 4K signal formats (both single- and multi-link) used in ultra-high-definition (UHD) TV production. The company says the 6 Gbps UHD-SDI solutions will provide twice the density (at half the power) and outstanding performance at a substantially lower cost than competitive 3 Gbps multi-link solutions.
The UTAH-100/UDS 4K routers bring 4K signal management solution to the growing world of UHD television. Routers in this new series are available in 32×32, 64×64, and 144×144 matrix sizes, and they offer the same control options as the successful UTAH-100/UDS routers introduced in 2012. Complementing the new 4K routers will be a 4K signal-processing module that provides multiplexing and demultiplexing of 1.5 Gbps and 3 Gbps streams to and from the 6 Gbps format.
This modular system is based on I/O modules with 16 ports, interconnected by a crosspoint fabric that allows any input signal to feed any number of output ports. For mixed-signal applications, the new 4K routers can also be fitted with 3G cards from the UTAH-100/UDS family, providing a full range of connectivity options including coax, fiber, IP-video and DVI/HDMI interfaces.
The UTAH-100/UDS 4K routers are controlled and monitored through a built-in Web interface that allows users to operate the system from a Web browser for local or remote control. Hardware control panels and an iPad® app are also available to control the routers.
Here are the specs: http://www.utahscientific.com/
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Share Article Back to Top Crestron Cameo infiNET EX Provides LED In-Wall RF Dimming Crestron's new CLW-DELV wireless dimmers are in-wall RF dimmers capable of controlling incandescent, halogen and LED light sources. Available in 120-volt, 230-volt, and 277-volt models, CLW DELV will begin shipping on April 1 and use 2.4 GHz mesh network technology. Cameo in-wall dimmers feature field-replaceable, engravable buttons, can be configured with various button layouts and are available in a wide variety of designer color options. Each CLW dimmer and switch is shipped with a full assortment of blank buttons for future use, keeping installers fully prepared should interior design plans change.
Here are the complete specs: http://www.crestron.com/resources/product_and_programming_resources/catalogs_and_brochures/online_catalog/default.asp?cat=1041
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Share Article Back to Top Matrox Intros Avio F125 High Performance Dual Video KVM Extenders Matrox Graphics Inc. has announced the Matrox Avio F125, a fiber-optic KVM extender which separates dual HD video, keyboard, mouse, stereo analog audio and USB 2.0 devices from a workstation. The Avio F125 transmitter/receiver pair extends two single-link DVI (2x1920x1200) or one dual-link DVI (2560×1600 or 4096×2160) video, and multiple high-speed USB 2.0 compliant devices from the host computer by up to 400 meters (1312 feet) over multimode cable and 4 kilometers (2.5 miles) over single-mode cable. Matrox says it can transmit all signals with zero compression and zero latency on a single duplex LC-LC fiber-optic cable.
Other Matrox Avio F125 features include:
- Smooth HD, 2K and 4K video playback without any dropped frames
- Keyboard and mouse extension via two USB HID ports or PS/2 connectors
- Four USB 2.0 ports on the receiver unit for USB 2.0 high-speed peripherals, including support for isochronous audio and video devices
- Local outputs on the Avio transmitter unit for easy maintenance or to share the remote the desktop on a collaborative video wall
- DDC compliance and advanced EDID management for reliable communication between the remote monitors and host system
- Rack mountable or stand alone units
- Plug & play design for easy deployment with no software installation
- Compatibility with Microsoft Windows, Linux, UNIX and Mac OS X operating systems
Matrox Avio F125 KVM extenders will be available as of Q2 2013. For more information, click here: http://www.matrox.com/graphics/en/products/kvm/avio/
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Share Article Back to Top Crimson AV Adds Kiosk Display Stand, Custom Configurations for Menu Board Solutions and Video Matrices Crimson AV, LLC announced several products at DSE 2013 in Las Vegas last month — a new kiosk display stand, a video matrix ceiling mount system and a menu board mount system.
The SU65 Kiosk Display Stand for 37" to 65" displays features a universal design, variable tilt angles, as well as a flat, stationary base, making it a good solution for interactive commercial displays up to 65" in size located in highly trafficked public areas. The SU65 is VESA compatible and was designed to be assembled by a single installer, according to Crimson. Included is a pre-sorted hardware pack and integrated cable management. An optional tempered glass or metal shelf (sold separately) can be installed below the display if needed.
Learn more here: http://www.crimsonav.com/products/su65
The new Video Matrix Ceiling Mount System is an extension of the Flex-Wall systems and Crimson says it was designed to deliver a simple solution for complex digital signage installations involving multiple commercial displays up to 60” in size. Fully modular, the Video Matrix Ceiling Mount system can be assembled by a single installer, and includes all of the necessary components as well as the hardware needed to complete the installation. Systems designers need only to know the size and number of displays to be used; Crimson will kit the complete mount system and ship it to the location requested. Prices are based on the number of displays to be mounted.
For more information on the Video Matrix Ceiling Mount System, click here: http://www.crimsonav.com/txn/Flex-Wall™/307170720
The Menu Board Mount System is a fully modular solution for mounting menu board displays to the wall or ceiling in either landscape or portrait configuration for commercial displays up to 65” in size. This new mount solution features Crimson’s post-installation leveling and cable management capabilities, and includes all of the necessary components and hardware needed to complete the installation. Like the Video Matrix Ceiling Mount System, designers need only to know the size and number of displays to be used as well as the orientation; Crimson will kit the complete mount system and ship it to the location requested. Prices are also based on the number of displays to be mounted.
For more information on the Menu Board Mount System, click here: http://www.crimsonav.com/txn/Menu Boards/307170727
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Share Article Back to Top AmpliVox Acrylic Lecterns Are Customizable AmpliVox Sound Systems has expanded its line of Acrylic Lecterns with 14 different styles — all of which are customizable with any logo or image on the front panel. AmpliVox has an extensive range of lectern products, available in hardwood, wood veneer, Lucite and mixed-material designs. Many lecterns also come with wireless UHF 16-channel or dynamic gooseneck mics to enhance sound amplification systems.
AmpliVox’s Acrylic Lecterns are more contemporary in style, with each lectern manufactured from thick plexiglass sheets in either clear or smoked finishes, in a wide range of styles. They ship fully assembled and ready to use. Customized front panels are available in most models of lecterns, which also feature a range of wood and metal accent choices. The logo complements the lectern’s materials while still allowing a clear view of the speaker.
Here are the details: http://www.ampli.com/lecterns-and-podiums/3525-Contemporary-Acrylic-and-Aluminum-Lectern.aspx
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Share Article Back to Top Extron Announces SDI, HD-SDI and 3G-SDI Input Capabilities for Quantum Series Videowall Processors Extron's new two input 3G-SDI Card for the Quantum Elite videowall processing system accepts SDI, HD-SDI and 3G-SDI signals. The new 3G-SDI input card features Extron high performance scaling technology, motion adaptive deinterlacing and film mode cadence detection to ensure high quality image presentation on videowall displays. Automatic source format detection captures 480i and 576i SDI sources, HD-SDI sources up to 1080i/60 Hz and 3G-SDI sources up to 1080p/60 Hz, complying with SMPTE 259M, 292M and 424M digital video standards. SDI, HD-SDI and 3G-SDI input support is also available for the Quantum Connect videowall processing system.
Extron says that Extron Quantum Series videowall processing systems deliver reliable multi-image presentations intended for demanding, mission-critical environments. They feature high performance graphics and video processing and a dedicated high-speed video bus that maintains real-time performance under heavy input loads. Quantum Series processors can simultaneously display hundreds of windows of high quality graphics and video, making them ideal for medium to large videowall systems in environments including public spaces, corporate buildings, surveillance, visualization and command and control.
To view a product video and for more information, please visit http://www.extron.com/quantumsdipr
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Share Article Back to Top Atlona Ships HDBaseT Extenders for HDMI Transmission Up to 100 Meters Atlona is now shipping its HDMI extenders featuring HDBaseT with signal transmission to a distance of up to 328 feet (100 meters). Atlona says both the AT-HDTX-RSNET transmitter and AT-HDRX-RSNET receiver offer provide bidirectional control with Ethernet, RS-232 and IR remote control for compatibility with third-party control systems. By using Power over Category cable (PoCc), AV, IR RS-232 and power can be sent over a single category cable without the need for a receiver power supply.
The new RSNET family of HDMI extenders feature locking HDMI ports, USB ports for in-field firmware updates and captive screw connectors for IR, RS-232 and RJ45 Ethernet connectors. Resolutions up to UltraHD (4Kx2K) and CEC pass-through are also supported by the devices. Along with 3D, the RSNET family transmits all embedded audio signals including Dolby TrueHD and DTS-HD Master Audio. Convenient captive-screw terminations for control and power (24 vdc on HDTX and PoCc on HDRX).
Here are the specs: http://www.atlona.com
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Share Article Back to Top Extron Announces VNS 104 Multi-Stream Decoding Software Extron's new VNS 104 Multi-Stream Decoding Software decodes and presents one or four video sources and one associated stereo audio source streamed from VN-Matrix 225 or 200 Series Encoders and VN-Matrix Recorder. VNS 104 multi-stream decoding software includes text overlay and status messaging features, which are valuable for distinguishing between AV sources during operation and system commissioning.
VNS 104 multi-stream decoding software operates on Windows PCs and is managed as a part of a system by a VN-Matrix Enterprise Controller. It offers aspect ratio management for VN-Matrix streams, including FILL, FOLLOW and a 1:1 mode, which can be applied independently to each decoded source. VNS 104 provides an effective method for monitoring multiple streaming sources in a variety of environments including command and control, after action review, training and simulation, and medical or geological visualization.
Here are all the specs: http://www.extron.com/product/product.aspx?id=vns104&s=5
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Share Article Back to Top Vaddio Launches Major Software Updates to AV Bridge and ClearVIEW HD-USB PTZ Camera Vaddio announced a major software update to the AV Bridge and ClearVIEW HD-USB PTZ camera that adds support for 4.2.0-encoded video applications including WebEx, Microsoft Lync and GoToMeeting.
“When recording lectures with detailed classroom and presentation content, HD video is essential and the higher video resolutions work great,” said COO of Vaddio, Mark Steen. “But when you’re network only provides limited bandwidth, sometimes lower resolutions are the only way to go. Streaming an HD video call, only to have it scaled down on the soft client end, doesn’t make much sense and eats up a lot of bandwidth.”
For more information on the ClearVIEW HD-USB Camera and AV Bridge software upgrade please visit the Vaddio website at http://www.vaddio.com in the Tech Center.
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Share Article Back to Top ShowKube Unveils 4K Video Processor & Media Server ShowKube's Kshow is a video processing system for projection that integrates a live mixer, a timeline and a 4K media server into one package. Designed for live-events multi-image processing, Kshow features a Linux-based 4U rack-mountable processor and all the workflows needed to prepare a show using its show driver, screen and layout editors and a flexible timeline.
Kshow claims that it makes it easy to adjust media for optimal projection on a diverse selection of screen shapes using edge blending and geometric corrections such as keystone, warping and mapping. It also features advanced live video source mixing with real time effects and transformations. Other features include:
- Different video frame rates on a same screen composition
- Management of synchronous and asynchronous video inputs
- Unlimited windows cloning option
- Advanced Media Manager with multiple effects (trimming, cropping, bright, glow, etc…)
- Real time and independent adjustment of video outputs for keystone, warping, mapping, color correction and other effects
- Management of windows (mask) and content layer (texture) from the timeline
- Input resolutions from video to 1920×1200 and output native is 4096×2160 and can be mapped to 8182×8192.
ShowKube Kshow has two HD/SDI inputs, two DVI/VGA inputs and one streaming (network video) port and outputs on six DisplayPorts with three management preview ports. Here are all the specs: http://www.showkube.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/08/Kshow_Brochure_web.pdf
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Share Article Back to Top NEC Display Adds LED-Backlit V463 LCD to V Series NEC Display announced today its latest addition to its commercial-grade V Series, the V463 display, which offers an LED-backlight, slimmer cabinet depth and an OPS-compliant expansion slot.
The V463 includes the following features:
- LED backlighting technology for reduced power consumption
- Commercial-grade LCD panel and components, which enable extended run times
- 1920 x 1080 full HD native resolution, which provides stunning clarity
- 350/500 cd/m² brightness (typical/maximum) and 4000:1 contrast ratio for vivid imagery
- DisplayPort, HDMI, DVI-D (in/out), VGA 15 pin D-sub (Composite, Component, S-Video), which enable connectivity to a wide range of peripherals
- RS-232C, Ethernet (RJ45), IR Remote, DDC/CI for external control
- Built-in, 10-watt speakers enhance the experience with superior sound
- TileMatrix, which facilitates video walls up to 10×10
- Built-in ATSC digital tuner, which allows for high-definition broadcast capabilities (V463-AVT model only)
- Bundled solution, which includes a V463 display and single board computer (OPS-PCAF-WS) for simple digital signage (V463-PC model only)
- Optional accessories, including speakers, stand, a variety of internal and external computers, digital tuner, calibration kit and wall mount
The V463 display is available at a minimum advertised price of $1,199. The V463-AVT and V463-PC models are priced at $1,399 and $1,949, respectively.
Click below to learn more about each model.
V463: http://www.necdisplay.com/p/v463
V463-AVT: http://www.necdisplay.com/p/v463-avt
V463-PC: http://www.necdisplay.com/p/product-bundles/v463-pc
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Share Article Back to Top NSCA to Make Admission to MNEC Free to 20 People The NSCA Education Foundation is offering 10 scholarships for individuals from systems integrator firms as well as 10 scholarships for government officials to attend NSCA’s Mass Notification & Emergency Communications (MNEC) Symposium May 9, 2013, at PSA-TEC in Westminster, CO. The scholarships, provided by the NSCA Education Foundation, are valued at $249, the cost of attending the conference.
NSCA members are encouraged to invite their local Authorities Having Jurisdiction (AHJs) or other government officials engaged in building code management to apply for scholarships for the MNEC Symposium. The integration community, in addition to government officials, will gain knowledge on the changing codes and better understand the need to require public and private venues to install or update a MNEC system in order to encourage public safety.
“Both NSCA and the Foundation are advocates for building better integrators,” said Andy Musci, president of the NSCA Education Foundation. “By offering these scholarships, we are encouraging the two main audiences who need to be engaged in this important initiative to become better educated on the positive outcomes and opportunities that exist within this emerging marketplace.”
Attendees of the MNEC Industry Symposium will take away information on how to:
- Build knowledge of MNEC including terminology, modified codes and regulations, constituent groups impacted, and inherent risks and rewards
- Build strategic partnerships between A/V, fire, life-safety, and security industries
- Communicate with customers/facility managers on the value of emergency systems
- Assist clients with a risk assessment to determine vulnerabilities to build the right MNEC system
- Provide opportunities to see the technologies and applications through table-top displays and representatives from leading manufacturers and consultants
AHJs may also apply on their own without an integrator referral if they choose. Applications are available at http://www.nsca.org or http://www.mnec.org and must be submitted by April 15.
Registration is $249 to attend the one-day event. You may also choose to attend half of the day for $99. For more information on the MNEC Symposium and PSA-TEC, or to register, visit http://www.psatec.com
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Share Article Back to Top Creative Marketing and Elrep Sales Partner Two independent manufacturer’s sales representative firms based in the southeast announced this month that they have joined forces. Elrep Sales and Creative Marketing Associates, Inc. are creating a joint venture, binding their respective brands and personnel together to better serve consumer, custom install and pro-AV customers across the southeast.
To read the complete press release online, click here. Back to Top Screen Innovations Offers Employee Pricing to All Industry Affiliates Screen Innovations (SI), a U.S.-based manufacturer of projection screen technology, announced this month that the company has launched a new Employee Pricing for Everyone program, designed to enable industry affiliates to own a Screen Innovations projection screen at 50 percent off current retail prices.
To read the complete press release online, click here. Back to Top For all you REGULAR readers of rAVe ProAV Edition out there, hopefully you enjoyed another opinion-packed issue! For those of you NEW to rAVe, you just read how we are — we are 100 percent opinionated. We not only report the news and new product stories of the ProAV industry, but we stuff the articles full of our opinions. That may include (but is not limited to) whether or not the product is even worth looking at, challenging the manufacturers on their specifications, calling a marketing-spec bluff and suggesting ways integrators market their products better. But, one thing is for sure, we are NOT a trade publication that gets paid for running editorial or product stories. Traditional trade publications get paid to run product stories — that's why you see what you see in most of the pubs out there. We are different: we run what we want to run and NO ONE is going to pay us to write anything good (or bad). Don't like us, then go away — unsubscribe! Just use the link below. To send me feedback, don't reply to this newsletter. Instead, write directly to me at gary@ravepubs.com or for editorial ideas, Editor-in-Chief Sara Abrons at sara@ravepubs.com A little about me: I graduated from Journalism School at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill (where I am adjunct faculty). I've been in the AV-industry since 1987 where I started with Extron and eventually moved to AMX. So, I guess I am an industry veteran (although I don't think I am that old). I have been an opinionated columnist for a number of industry publications and in the late 1990s I started the widely read KNews eNewsletter (the first in the AV market) and also created the model for and was co-founder of AV Avenue, which is now known as InfoComm IQ. rAVe [Publications] has been around since 2003, when we launched our original newsletter, rAVe ProAV Edition. Everything we publish is Opt-in — we spam NO ONE! rAVe ProAV Edition is our flagship ePublication with what we believe is a reach of virtually everyone in the ProAV market. rAVe HomeAV Edition, co-published with CEDIA and launched in February 2004, is, by far, the largest ePub in the HomeAV market. We added rAVe Rental [and Staging] in November 2007, rAVe ED [Education] in May 2008 and then rAVe DS [Digital Signage] in January 2009. We added rAVe GHGav [Green, Healthcare & Government AV] in August 2010 and rAVe HOW [House of Worship] in July 2012. You can subscribe to any of those publication or see ALL our archives by going to: https://www.ravepubs.com To read more about my background, our team and what we do, go to https://www.ravepubs.com Back to Top Copyright 2013 – rAVe [Publications] – All rights reserved – All rights reserved. For reprint policies, contact rAVe [Publications], 210 Old Barn Ln. – Chapel Hill, NC 27517 – (919) 969-7501. Email: Sara@rAVePubs.com
rAVe contains the opinions of the author only and does not necessarily reflect the opinions of other persons or companies or its sponsors.
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