Volume 14, Issue 1 — January 8, 2016
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Industry News Displays Cables, Cases, Furniture, Mounts, Racks, Screens & Accessories Control & Signal Processing Media Players, Recording & Distribution Audio Projection Unified Collaborative Conferencing Lighting
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Scope Creep, Scope Leak and Now Scope Seep
By Omar Prashad rAVe Blogger
Every integrator is all too familiar with the dreaded scope creep and thanks to a fantastic article by Mark Coxon, we are now familiar with scope leak. While those are both challenges that require more actionable strategies that we’ve seen tabled up to this point, those are topics for another day. Have you ever head the phrase Scope Seep?
I recently read a fantastic book on management consulting written by Alan Weiss where he introduces the concept of scope seep, and while his definition of the term was in relation to how management consultants treat their assignments the phrase should be permanently engraved in the glossary of the AV industry. Quite simply scope seep are those little things that ‘we’ volunteer to do during the course of a project that were never actually part of the project scope but that we throw in during the course of a project in an attempt to justify our value or, worse, justify our technical prowess and brilliance.
While scope seep is an affliction that typically infects our operations and project delivery teams the sales team isn’t immune to it. Especially the ‘relationship’ reps who think being the nice guy and having the customer ‘like you’ are what secures business.
Let’s use an example to illustrate: You’re doing a small $40,000 AV system upgrade for a new customer. You secured the project because the account manager showed the customer how your company would meet their needs (instead of just listening to their wants) and you delivered a proposal that was customer-centric. In her diluted version of reality, the account manager thinks that you won the sale because she had a great relationship with the customer. Now while the project is for the boardroom upgrade the account manager notices during one of her meetings with the customer that the video wall in their lobby looks awful, the color consistency is way off and it’s in desperate need of a color balance. Instead of addressing it with the customer she tells the field tech something along the lines of ‘hey, since you’re on-site anyways could you spend a few minutes and re-balance the video wall for them.’ In her head, she’s thinking that the client is really going to appreciate going above and beyond.
I would argue that this actually erodes the customer’s perception of the value that we bring to the relationship. Why you ask… while fixing it for them is the ‘nice’ thing to do not only does it cost us money and labor time, but it costs us an opportunity to show the customer the value in partnering with us. We miss one of those critical teachable moments. We miss the opportunity to sit with the customer in their own lobby and show them how the poorly calibrated video wall detracts from their brand and image. We miss the opportunity to demonstrate the value we bring as a business partner. We miss the opportunity to show the customer that we are thinking from their perspective.
Here’s another example — the project is almost finished and our programmer is now on-site loading and testing and preparing the system for commissioning. While in the room she notices that there are motorized shades and blinds which weren’t in our scope because they operated perfectly from a bank of rocker switches. Her curiosity is piqued and she pops a couple of ceiling tiles, lo and behold, there are already group motor controllers for the blinds and shades. She thinks, boy wouldn’t it be cool if the blinds would automatically adjust when the AV system was turned on depending on the time of the day. All the hardware is there and I’ve got a couple of open ports on the control system. So off she goes pulling control cabling to the group motor controllers and adding to the control system program while on-site, the entire time thinking about how much the customer will appreciate that they went above and beyond.
Again I would argue that just doing this extra work not only eats into the profitability of the project but also tangibly impedes the valued partnership we all strive to have with our customers. Not being able to show the customer and explain to them why it may be a good idea to link the blinds control to the central AV system means the customer doesn’t get to see you actively thinking from their perspective, on their business issues, and on what might make their lives better. If the projector lamp explodes in the room three months down the road, right before the CEO’s meeting, do you think your customer is going to remember that nice little thing you did with the blinds or the video wall in the lobby? Remember the old adage — people take for granted what they get for free.
Let’s look at it from outside of the AV industry for a minute. Think about the last time you hired an electrician; let’s pretend it was to install a new light fixture. If they noticed that the receptacle for your TV was in the wrong place and the cord was an eyesore draping down the wall do you think they would have just moved it while they were there without charging you for it? Sure it needed to be done, and it would have made your life better, but I would bet my bottom dollar that they would have pointed it out to you and told you that it could be fixed (for a nominal price because they were already in your house with their tools). And although you may not admit it, I’m sure that you would think back fondly on that electrician because while they were doing one job at your house. They noticed something else that wasn’t ideal and they put themselves in your shoes proposing a solution to a problem that you may not have known that you had.
So what can we do to prevent scope seep? Being it’s a mental affliction more than anything else the solutions have to be slowly and consistently ingrained into your company culture.
- Remember the sole purpose of our existence as integrators is to provide value to our customers. Making sure the customer sees that we are constantly thinking about them is paramount to building the business partner relationship. Don’t give it away and miss out on the opportunity to bring to the customer’s attention the attentiveness of your organization to their business needs.
- Make sure our technical delivery teams don’t feel that they have to justify your presence and value. The customer relationship is that of equal partners. They need us just as much as we need them.
- Yes it’s fun to do cool new things, but cool new things are for the R&D bench, not for a free add-on to a customer project. Justifying your technical prowess and brilliance is a self-fulfilling prophecy that does nothing to strengthen the business partnership with your customer.
- Perfection is the enemy of good (and of profitability).
- Remember – its human nature to take for granted what we get for free.
I’m pretty sure I’m pushing a button here that will have people sharply divided. There are too many organization that believe that having the customer like you and having a ‘great relationship’ is what drives sales. So I’m curious to hear your feedback integrators, do you add things out of scope to impress the customer and justify your value? Leave a Comment
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InfoComm Announces 2016 Certification Committee MembersInfoComm announced the election results for the 2016 InfoComm International Certification Steering Committee. The committee of industry volunteers oversees the development and administration of InfoComm’s Certified Technology Specialist certifications (CTS, CTS-D and CTS-I), the most respected professional credentials in the audiovisual industry.
Current CTS holders elected the following industry professionals to the Certification Steering Committee:
- Heather Callaway, CTS-D, SiteReady Design
- Tim Cichos, CTS, University of Notre Dame
- Alec Graham, CTS-D, CTS-I, ServicePoint Australia
- John Lamberson, CTS, Biamp Systems
- Rodrigo Ordonez, CTS-D, K2 Audio, LLC
- Farrell Wood, CTS-D, CTS-I, Whitlock
“I am excited for what the CTS program will bring in the coming year,” Caldera said. “Recognition of CTS certification as the leading AV professional credential-both within the United States and abroad-is higher than ever and we need to take it to the next level. Along with other members of the steering committee, I’m excited for the opportunity to lead the certification effort and its expansion over the next year.”
Callaway and Graham were reelected for new terms. The elected Certification Steering Committee members join current members Jeremy Caldera, CTS-D, CTS-I, Zdi Inc., Josh Srago, CTS, ICS Integrated Communication Systems and Matthew Wood, CTS-I, George Washington University. Caldera was elected by committee members to chair the committee.
The outgoing chair of the Certification Steering Committee is Rich Kowalske, CTS-D, CTS-I of We Know IT!; other outgoing committee members include Matthew LeFeber, CTS of The Sextant Group, Christopher Neal, CTS-D, CTS-I of One Workplace and Adam Walton, CTS of SVSi.
“Rich Kowalske and all the volunteers serving on the Certification Steering Committee have made important contributions to industry excellence and the Certified Technology Specialist program,” said Adrienne Knick, director of certification, InfoComm International. “We want to thank Rich, Matthew LeFeber, Christopher Neal and Adam Walton for their time, expertise and insight during this exciting time in the CTS program. Under their watch, the number of Certified Technology Specialists exceeded 10,000 worldwide — a milestone that anyone who’s ever volunteered to be part of the Certification Steering Committee or been a CTS can be proud of.”
As of Dec. 17, 2015, there are 10,241 Certified Technology Specialists around the world. In 2014, over 80 percent of eligible CTS, CTS-D and CTS-I holders chose to renew their certifications, demonstrating their commitment to industry professionalism.
Here is information on certification. Leave a Comment
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rAVe Founder Gary Kayye to Present on Social Marketing at ISE 2016The InfoComm FlashTrack entitled Social Media Marketing for AV Pros, takes place on Wednesday, 10 Feb 2016 at 15:00-15:20 on Stand 12-N100 at Integrated Systems Europe 2016 – Europe’s largest tradeshow for the professional AV and electronic systems industry. Co-taught by rAVe founder Gary Kayye and Social Media Expert Kayla Blevins, the session is designed to help AV integrators and manufacturers, in the EMEA region, understand the state of the social media industry and what is working to promote AV products and what isn’t.
“I am proud of what we do with social media. We have over 33,000 followers on our various social media accounts and we think we can help everyone market themselves better in social media,” said Kayye.” Kayla was a student of mine at UNC (University of North Carolina) in my social media marketing class and she’s become a social media superstar with her column on our website teaching integrators and manufacturers how to use social media marketing to promote their AV products.”
Social media shouldn’t be a separate marketing effort in your company — it should be part of your overall marketing strategy. And, Twitter isn’t the only thing you should be doing! This session will go over the five social media platforms/apps that should be part of every AV integrator or dealer’s marketing plan.
“InfoComm International’s presence at ISE showcases our commitment to the industry to provide valuable education globally and we are grateful for the participation of our volunteer experts, like Gary Kayye, who are committed to improving the industry by offering quality training,” said Terry Friesenborg, chief global officer, InfoComm International.
The InfoComm FlashTrack session will take place at the InfoComm International stand 12-N100. No registration is required but you should put this on your calendar as seating is limited — first come/first served. Click on the appropriate calendar link to automatically import details of this event into your calendar.
2016-02-10 15:00:00 2016-02-10 15:20:00 Europe/Amsterdam Social Media Marketing for AV Pros This session is designed to help AV integrators and manufacturers, in the EMEA region, understand the state of the social media industry and what is working to promote AV products and what isn’t. Stand 12-N100 at ISE 2016 in the Amsterdam RAI Gary Kayye gary@ravepubs.com
ISE is here. Leave a Comment
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NEC Display Intros 75-Inch X754HB Display Built for High-Brightness EnvironmentsNEC Display Solutions today announced the MultiSync X754HB display, a high-brightness display that allows for extremely clear visibility in higher ambient light environments.
The new 75-inch display is built specifically to withstand the harsh environment of direct sunlight that would otherwise ruin normal displays. With integrated thermodynamic cooling fans, a panel that can reduce the risk of isotropic liquid crystals and a screen brightness of up to 2500 cd/m2, the X754HB is designed for solutions such as in a front-facing store windows and outdoor applications when coupled with an enclosure.
The X754HB also can intelligently adapt to its surroundings utilizing an integrated ambient light sensor. When it’s on during the day, it can offer a bright, clear image allowing for full visibility in the brightest conditions. It can then dim down at night, reducing power consumption and contributing savings to the overall investment. Typical liquid crystal panels do not guarantee full visibility if the orientation of the display changes and if the person viewing the screen is wearing polarized sunglasses. NEC Display’s X754HB has a quarter-lambda polarizer integrated onto the panel that will allow for full visibility in any orientation.
Other X754HB benefits include:
- 8-bit color SPVA panel
- Direct LED backlighting and new localized dimming functionality, which allow for improved contrast ratio and lower power consumption
- A Quarter-Lambda optical film, integrated to overcome polarization of light emitted by the display. This guarantees full readability in outdoor and semi-outdoor installations for both landscape and portrait orientations when wearing polarized sunglasses
- NFC sensor, which is incorporated into the chassis and can be addressed via a matching app for Android devices. This helps reduce installation cost as several displays can be easily configured before they are mounted
- Built-in OPS (Open Pluggable Specification) option slot and expanded connectivity options, such as
- DisplayPort 1.2, which give installers flexibility and reduce overall set-up time
- Intelligent power saving and thermal management features, which not only reduce energy usage, but also ensure that the display aligns with NEC’s Green Vision for sustainability and eco-friendliness
The X754HB display ships with a three-year limited parts and labor warranty, and will be available in December 2015 at a minimum advertised price of $11,299. Here are all the tech specs. Leave a Comment
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Sharp Intros New 80″ Signage Display and 60″ AQUOS BOARD
The Sharp PN-E Series has added a new 80″ class (80″ diagonal) PN-E803 professional LCD monitor to the 70″ Class (69.5″ diagonal) PN-E703 and 60″ class (60.1″ diagonal) PN-E603 models. The PN-E803 display combines 1080p image quality and a thin profile designed for professional signage solutions for a wide range of applications. The new PN-E803 monitor replaces the PN-E802 monitor. The PN-E803 display is 3 3/4″ thick and weighs 125.7 pounds, compared to the PN-E802 display at 4 13/16″ and 174.2 pounds. The PN-E803 display boasts two HDMI inputs (versus one in the PN- E802 model), a DVI-D input and output (none in the PN-E802 model), plus a DisplayPort input and output. All the detailed specs are here.
In addition, Sharp introduced a new entry-level, 60″ Class (60.1″ diagonal) PN-C603D AQUOS BOARD interactive display system. This 1080p touchscreen monitor lets you display and manipulate a variety of information with ease and precision. The PN-C603D interactive display has all the main features of its bigger brother’s model, the 70″ class (69.5″ diagonal) PN-C703B interactive display. The PN-C603D model is priced at 41 percent less than Sharp’s 60″ class (60.1″ diagonal) PN-L603B AQUOS BOARD interactive display. Specs are here. Leave a Comment
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PrimeView Launches 32″ 4K DisplayPrimeview USA has introduced a 32″ UHD LED LCD monitor to the market. The new display expands the company’s 4K UHD (3840×2160) line to under 40 inches (also going up to 98 inches diagonal) to fit a vast range of budgets and size of space in control rooms, medical environments, gaming, museums and digital signage. It’s specified as having 10-bit color.
Joining the Primeview 4K UHD line of 49-, 55-, 65-, 75-, 84- and 98-inch displays, the PRV324KLED boasts true 4K resolution includes HDBaseT connectivity embedded (model # PRV324KLEDHDBT) as well as HDMI 1.4 and HDMI 2.0.
The 4K UHD line and 4K HDBaseT LED LCD Lines are now available. For more information, go here. Leave a Comment
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LynTec Announces New IPC Panel — All-in-One Breaker Panel and Isolation TransformerLynTec today announced the Integrated Power Center (IPC) panel, a circuit breaker panel and isolation transformer integrated into one enclosure. LynTec’s IPC panel adds award-winning control to Schneider Electric’s space- and labor-saving Integrated Equipment product line, which is designed to reduce material-handling costs on the job site by delivering complete, ready-to-install units.
As part of the Integrated Equipment line, the LynTec IPC panel arrives at the job site as a ready-to-wire transformer, panel board, and control solution in a single, floor-standing enclosure. All of the internal wiring between the transformer and panels is installed and tested at the factory, which saves wall space, build-out time, and wiring labor on the job site. The panel can be configured with as many as 84 circuit breakers above an isolation transformer.
Internal panel boards are set forward in the IPC enclosure to allow code compliance and vertical cooling for the isolation transformer. Users can access the wiring at both the top and bottom panels of the enclosure.
IPC panels are available with LynTec’s RPC, MSP, LCP or SCP panels and control options, and breaker counts, breaker sizing, and transformer sizing can be customized for a specific application.
More information on LynTec’s full line of products is available here. Leave a Comment
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Cat8 Ethernet Cable Debuts Wireworld Cable Technology announces the development of its Starlight Category 8 cables for high speed media network applications. Unlike Category 7 cables, these cables utilize a new conductor geometry developed by Wireworld to support higher transmission speed for the most lifelike reproduction of streamed music and video.
Starlight Ethernet is the first production cable that meets the proposed requirements for Category 8. This cable is also the first to incorporate Wireworld’s Tite-Shield Technology, a new structure that they say overcomes limitations of previous network cable designs. With twelve tightly-spaced shields replacing the six unevenly-spaced shields in Category 7 cables, the Tite-Shield design improves the most critical parameters of digital signal transmission.
Category 7 cabling was created to satisfy the demands of 10 Gigabit Ethernet. Even though most media networks now run below that speed, cables that support higher speeds have been found to improve the quality of audio and video streaming. Those improvements are possible because streamed signals suffer from data errors that cannot be repaired by the error correction systems that preserve file transfers. The proposed standard for future networks is Category 8, which extends network speeds to the staggering rate of 40 Gigabits per second.
One of the reasons why Cat7 cables do not meet the proposed Cat8 specifications is that they allow too much crosstalk (mixing) between the four signal channels. To control crosstalk, conventional cables use four twisted pairs of conductors with one foil shield on each pair. An overall two-layer shield reduces outside interference. The problem with twisting is that it makes lengths of the conductors uneven, which causes timing errors called skew. Tite-Shield technology isolates the four channels with a three-layer shield on each conductor pair. Those shields are so effective that twisting is no longer needed and conductor length differences are eliminated.
Starlight’s unique flat design provides greater separation between the four conductor pairs to provide lower crosstalk, supporting higher transmission speeds than conventional designs. The cable also utilizes Wireworld’s proprietary Composilex 2 insulation to minimize triboelectric noise.
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RTI Ships New KX1 Multi-Room Audio KeypadRTI today announced its new KX1 multi-room audio keypad is now shipping. Specifically designed to control distributed audio within rooms or zones across any home or business environment, the innovative keypad simplifies the user experience through a color OLED display, two-way control capabilities, backlit volume, programmable hard buttons, and more.
RTI’s KX1 features a 1.2-inch OLED color display — allowing two-way metadata feedback from audio sources such as AV receivers, media streamers, iPod docks, and more. The device also provides 11 backlit hard buttons to facilitate commonly selected functions for users, and a convenient back-lit volume bar to display audio volume levels clearly.
To facilitate the installation and integration process, the innovative KX1 provides customizable programming capabilities via RTI’s renowned Integration Designer software — allowing installers to tailor the automation experience easily to customers’ specific requirements. Featuring an embedded Ethernet connection for straightforward connectivity, the multi-room audio keypad can be fitted into any standard single-gang electrical box, and is available in black, white and light almond colors.
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Aurora Ships QXT Touch PanelAurora claims its QXT-700 is the world’s first platform “agnostic” Quad Core IP HD 7″ Touch Panel (QXT-700TS) / Control System (QXT-2). Designed for conference rooms, educational facilities and control over digital signage systems, it mounts into a standard two-gang box, and uses a 7-inch 1280×800 touch screen with 170 degree viewing angles. It also includes a 2D and 3D graphics engine with 1080p H.264 streaming.
The QXT-700 has stereo speakers, stereo digital microphones, light sensor, proximity sensor and IR Learner. Here are the specs. Leave a Comment
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Roland Now Shipping Its V-1HD High-Definition Video SwitcherRoland announced it’s shipping its V-1HD Video Switcher, a four input HDMI switcher with compositing effects and creative video switching capabilities and HDCP copy protection. The V-1HD can also be controlled by the companion PC/Mac or iPad application when connected by USB. The V-1HD includes two HDMI program and preview outputs and a stereo audio output.
The V-1HD gives users an array of compositing effects, including picture-in-picture and keying, allowing for graphic insets plus titling and green screen capabilities. The V-1HD is ideal for live event video switching, thanks to its advanced transition and filter effects — more than 30 effects and transition types including mix, cut, full additive mix (FAM), non-additive mix (NAM), wipe and other performance effects. The V-1HD also has output fade, BPM Sync and Auto-Scan functions. The A and B video busses each have controls for effects assignment and parameter control. The output can be switched A/B or in PGM/PST mode where the B buss is used for signal preview. The preview output can be set to a multi-view mode, where all inputs are displayed with colored borders indicating the program and preview selections, or in a full-screen mode. The preview output can be used for additional, menu-driven set-up control, or as a second output for applications such as a simultaneous webcast or recording output.
The 12-channel audio mixer offers 3-band parametric EQ, reverb, up to 500ms delay for accurate lip-sync, a compressor/gate on the mic input and level/multi-band EQ on the master mix. A headphone output facilitates audio monitoring and the V-1HD supports mono or stereo plug-in-powered microphones.
The V-1HD features a clean, intuitive control layout with multi-function buttons and knobs and a large T-handled T-Fader for key and transition operations.
The Roland V-1HD High-Definition Video Switcher is now available at a suggested retail price of $995. Here are the specs. Leave a Comment
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Kramer Intros VP-558 11×4 Presentation Scaler/Matrix SwitcherKramer’s new VP-558 is an 11×4 ProScale presentation scaler/matrix switcher that can output four independent scaled images with embedded audio via both HDMI and HDBaseT. The VP-558 features six HDMI and four HDBaseT inputs along with an analog VGA input. The unit includes a 4×1 USB switcher, independent stereo audio outputs and a line output. VP-558 also has a microphone input, an amplified speaker output and audio DSP.
This product is designed as a matrix switcher solution for meeting rooms with video conferencing systems. With its integrated 4X1 USB switcher, the VP-558 is also an outstanding choice for setups that require USB switching with video and audio (e.g., an interactive whiteboard).
VP-558’s control options include extensive built-in Web pages, OSD and RS-232. Here are all the tech specs.
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Aurora Introduces DXB-8 Low-Cost Eight-Button, Single-Gang Wall ControllerAurora’s new DXB-8 has eight programmable buttons and two RS232 ports for controlling RS232 devices. Designed for classrooms and small conference rooms, the DXB-8 buttons can be configured for sending commands on both a press and/or release, for applications such as camera pan/tilt near/far commands, as well as press-and-hold functionality for volume ramping applications.
Each button can also be programmed as a toggle function sending a unique serial command on the first press and a totally different command on a second press (I.e. Display Power On and Display Power Off both under the same button). Each of the eight buttons are back-lit with programmable colors (red, green and blue). Different colors can be placed onto a single button showing one color on a press and another on a release or toggle between two as well. The DXB-8 comes in black and white with an assortment of laser-etched back-lit buttons.
With Aurora’s free DXI programming software, the DXB-8 can easily be programmed within a single page for easy viewing of the entire project. The DXB-8 also mates with Aurora’s award winning DXW-2 series HDBaseT wall plates allowing RS232 control via HDBaseT to the display over a single umbilical.
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Extron XTP Fiber Optic Receiver With Vector 4K Scaling ShipsExtron is now shipping its XTP SFR HD 4K, an XTP scaling receiver for extending video, audio, bidirectional control, and Ethernet over one fiber optic cable. It accepts signals from XTP Fiber transmission products, and incorporates the Extron’s new Vector 4K scaling engine, specifically engineered for 4K applications. For streamlined integration, it features on‑screen menus, audio de‑embedding to digital S/PDIF or analog stereo audio outputs, and relays for room control. Ethernet extension along with RS‑232 and IR insertion allow LAN access and remote AV device control. Signals can be delivered up to 700 meters (2,297 feet) over OM4 multi-mode fiber optic cable and up to 10 km (6.21 miles) over singlemode cable. The XTP SFR HD 4K is ideal for XTP Systems that require long-haul distribution and scaling of 4K video.
XTP Systems offer a complete integration platform for a digital AV infrastructure that supports 4K and beyond. XTP II CrossPoint matrix switchers are the first in the Pro AV industry to offer a 50 Gbps switching backplane. They are modular and expandable up to 64×64 sizes, delivering integrated solutions for high performance signal routing between multiple local and remote sources and display devices up to and beyond 4K. They can be configured with a wide selection of local, twisted pair, and fiber optic input and output boards providing integration for a variety of signal types and formats. Twisted pair and fiber optic endpoints support long distance extension of AV, control, and Ethernet to deliver complete end-to-end system solutions.
Here are all the tech specs. Leave a Comment
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Antelope Audio Intros Two Thunderbolt-Compatible Devices: Orion32+ and Orion StudioAntelope Audio announced that Orion32+ and Orion Studio, are now compatible with Apple Thunderbolt technology — and both are shipping.
Orion32+ follows its predecessor, Orion32, which launched three years ago as a 32-channel interface solution in a 1U rack. Orion32+ is now Antelope’s flagship interface and features Thunderbolt compatibility, improved dynamic range, claiming zero latency monitoring and Antelope’s “signature uncompromising audio quality.”
The Orion32+ is 32 channels of I/O with a spa of zero latency monitoring and 32-simultaneous channels of 24-bit, 192 kHz audio performance. The unit also delivers a vast range of connectivity options including Thunderbolt, MADI and USB, making it suitable for use in commercial, home studio and live environments. The Orion32+ also incorporates ADAT and S/PDIF throughput, with I/O being handled by eight D-Sub 25 connectors and a pair of mastering grade monitor outputs — both capable of delivering 129 dB dynamic range.
Now with full Thunderbolt compatibility, Antelope’s Orion Studio is in a 1U form factor, is their lowest latency AD/DA converter in its class and USB compatibility.
Designed for both project studios, home recording environments and other applications, Orion Studio delivers professional grade audio quality and is capable of processing 32 channels of 192 kHz audio at dizzying speeds of 100μ round trip delay. With 12 commercial quality microphone pre-amplifiers, 16 analog outputs, two mastering grade monitor outputs and Thunderbolt compatibility, Orion Studio is the perfect companion to achieve the ultimate in sound quality.
Orion32+ is priced at $3,495 (U.S.) and Orion Studio is priced at $2,795 (U.S.) and all the specs are here. Leave a Comment
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Tripleplay Launches Low Latency Encoder HD Wi-Fi System and Network Streaming App at ISETripleplay says it will debut a new low-latency Tripleplay HD Encoder and a new Tripleplay Mobile Media App for off network video upload and streaming, as well as a Wi-Fi-enabled video streaming solution at ISE. Here is what we know so far:
- Tripleplay HD Encoder: The new Tripleplay super low latency encoder will deliver 250ms video, glass to glass, be competitively priced and will be aimed at the sports industry in particular.
- Tripleplay Mobile Media App: Tripleplay MMA is the company’s brand new mobile media application, based around the technology it uses in its existing TripleStream and TripleChoice Media Portal solutions. It allows off network video streaming, content upload, live TV recording, chat and secure encrypted download of video files for off network playback.
- Tripleplay High Density Wi-Fi Video Streaming: Tripleplay has developed a video streaming technology that Tripleplay says will allow secure and reliable delivery of media content in environments with densely packed audiences and many mobile devices trying to access rich media from the communal WiFi. Using patent pending technology, the Tripleplay HDW Video Streaming solution uses a mix of forward error correction and live reporting to deliver a smooth, quality video experience for the user.
- BART Software Platform: The Tripleplay BART software platform has brought with it a variety of new features including native 4K, Samsung SSP and interactive touchscreen support, as well as improved clustering and resilience features for corporate network environments, as well as providing improved server efficiency, load management and scalability.
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Datapath Launches First SQX ProductsDatapath launched the first three products in its SQX range of IP streaming and compression technologies. Two of the introductions are SQX decode technologies: ActiveSQX is a scalable and powerful PCIe card designed to decode multiple streaming videos using an on-board processor; while SoftSQX is a low cost CPU decoding engine designed for systems that may require the management of a small number of compressed IP streams. The third product introduced to the range is Wall Control SQX, an SQX compatible software application for controlling Vision Capture, IP-Camera and third-party application windows on Datapath video wall controller systems.
Datapath’s new ActiveSQX is basically a PCIe card designed to decode multiple streaming videos with its integral processor. Importantly, as a scalable solution, it can work side-by-side with other ActiveSQX cards installed in the same system to support the management of entire CCTV systems or connect to online media libraries, streaming and decoding video for accelerated video wall display. The card provides a large number of simultaneous decodes, all available within a single Windows desktop display surface. Decoded video can be scaled to display on multiple screens, across screen boundaries, tiled, overlaid and moved anywhere at any time without restriction.
ActiveSQX is capable of simultaneously decoding and transferring up to 1.2 GBps of video data, equivalent to 6 x 1080p 60fps streams, or 12 x at 30fps. Additionally each Active SQX card can decode 50+ D1 streams.
The second introduction, SoftSQX, uses the advanced capabilities of the latest system CPUs to decode within the Datapath SQX framework even when no accelerated hardware resources are available. In short, SoftSQX is a low cost or rollover decoding engine designed for new and existing systems that may require the management of a number of compressed streams.
When using an ActiveSQX card, system resources such as the processor are not used. However, SoftSQX can use these resources to decode IP streams without requiring any additional configuration. This provides additional capabilities to make full use of the technology available, or to cater for times of high load.
With SoftSQX, users can typically decode an incoming bandwidth equivalent to 12x 1080p 30 fps streams. Decoded video can be then transferred at full Gen 2 PCI Express speed directly to a Datapath ImageDP4 graphics card for accelerated display on to a video wall.
SoftSQX uses the same API as ActiveSQX hardware. When both ActiveSQX and SoftSQX are installed in a system, the API chooses which product to use based on the availability of system resources. ActiveSQX hardware is always the default preference, however, if the card is fully utilised, the third new Datapath SQX introduction, Wall Control SQX, will roll over to SoftSQX to ensure maximum flexibility and system availability is maintained.
Wall Control SQX software is an interface that automatically provides users fast access to vision input capture channels, configured IP camera sources and applications. It delivers a graphical representation of the data wall and a toolbar through which all available sources and applications can be manipulated. The software can be used to interactively open, move, size and position any window on either the local machine or a remote network client system.
Wall Control SQX provides users with the interface required to manage traditional input sources as well as multiple IP streams and local applications. Here are the details. Leave a Comment
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Extron Ships Mic/Line to Dante Audio InterfaceExtron has started shipping its AXI 22 AT D, a single-gang Decora-style audio interface for integrating two mic/line sources onto a Dante-enabled audio system. It features two XLR audio inputs and switchable 48 volt phantom power for connecting and powering condenser microphones, plus gain controls for each input. The AXI 22 AT D also features two line outputs on the back for routing any two Dante channels from the network to an amplifier, or connecting into an optional secondary wallplate with two XLR outputs or RCA outputs. The AXI 22 AT D interfaces with Extron Dante-equipped audio processors over a standard local area network, and can be powered through PoE. This allows a single network cable connection for bidirectional audio and power from a central equipment rack.
The AXI 22 AT D digitizes two incoming analog mic/line audio channels at 24-bit/48 kHz for output via Dante, and converts two Dante audio channels for its analog line level outputs. It is connected into a Dante network over Ethernet using standard IP networking protocols. This avoids the effort and expense of pulling long analog mic cables from an audio processor to each wall, floor box, or furniture location. Audio system designers can easily design an audio system with AXI 22 AT D wallplate interfaces throughout a large facility, each connecting back into a central equipment location. For additional integration convenience, the AXI 22 AT D can be remotely powered through Power over Ethernet (PoE) using Extron XTP PI 100 and XTP PI 400 power injectors, a network switch equipped with PoE or a midspan PoE injector.
A network of Extron Dante-enabled products, including the AXI 22 AT D audio interfaces, can be set up using Dante Controller software as well as DSP Configurator Software. Dante Controller is used to easily assign an output from an AXI 22 AT D to an input on a Dante-equipped digital signal processor, such as the Extron DMP 128 AT. Similarly, an output from a DMP 128 AT can be assigned to appear at the line level output AXI 22 AT D.
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AudioControl Ships New Multi-Zone Matrix-Amplifier: The Director ModelM6400Audiocontrol is now shipping the Director Model M6400, its new high power matrixing amplifier with DSP control. The Director Model M6400, part of AudioControl’s new Matrix M Series, builds upon the success of AudioControl’s ‘The Director’ DSP Series driving sixteen channels of amplification in a 2U chassis that delivers 65 watts per channel at 8 ohms, 100 watts per channel at 4 ohms and 175 watts at 8 ohm bridged, all channels driven. The M6400 features on-board digital signal processing, graphic and parametric equalization by zone, network monitoring, and programming plus the addition of Volume Control, channel/zone grouping and zone audio presets. It also allows individual channel and zone selection via standard TCIP, the ability to bridge into low impedances while delivering incredible power and AudioControl’s legendary audio performance.
The matrixing capabilities of the Director M series allow any of eight analog or two digital inputs to be routed to any amplified zone output. The Director Model M6400 includes two digital SPDIF inputs plus two SPDIF outputs that are included in the matrixing so that any one of the input sources can be routed through the digital outputs. These digital outputs can be connected to Director M series digital inputs so that multiple amplifiers can receive any signal from any inputs from any of the amplifiers.
The Director Model M6400 is available in brushed stainless steel or black finish.
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James Loudspeaker Offers Built-to-Match Sound Bars for Curved LCD Displays James Loudspeaker has announced the availability of built-to-match curved sound bars to accommodate the demand for curved displays and screens. Each curved bar is custom built per the specific geometry of the TV or screen, giving integrators a vital tool to deliver superb audio performance along with seamless cosmetics.
The curved geometry option is available on the SPL-3, SPL-5 and SPL-6 series of sound bars, providing integrators with superb sound quality, best-in-class aircraft-grade aluminum construction and seamless cosmetic integration for any A/V system. James Loudspeaker exhibited a curved SPL-5 sound bar at CEDIA 2015 mated to a Samsung 65-inch display to rave reviews.
James Loudspeaker curved sound bars are available now. There is a $400 premium for the curved geometry. Check out the company here.
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Two New BenQ Projectors Launch Aimed at Home and CommercialBenQ America launched two new projectors int he form of the TH670 and MH741. Both are spec’d at 10,000:1 contrast ratio, 3,000 (TH670) or 4,000 (MH741) ANSI lumens of brightness and native 1080p resolution. The TH670 is aimed at home entertainment, while the MH741 is spec’d for medium- to large-size conference rooms, training rooms, classrooms and houses of worship. Among a variety of connectivity options including HDMI, the TH670 offers a 1.5-A USB Type-A input supplying power for accessories such as wireless dongles. In addition, for those times when the projector needs to be set at an angle from the screen, the TH670 automatically corrects the vertical trapezoidal effect.
For installation flexibility, the MH741 provides 2D keystone correction by adjusting the trapezoid effect via horizontal and vertical adjustments up to ±30 degrees. This allows the projector to be placed off center, for instance, where the presenter can stand in front of the screen without blocking the image. With corner fit geometric correction, the projector enables the picture to be perfectly aligned by adjusting each corner of the image independently. Advanced connectivity options on the MH741 include two HDMI inputs, one with MHL. With MHL presenters can project small-screen content from mobile devices to the big screen by mirroring documents, photos, videos, and presentations. Once connected, the projector supplies power to the smart device, keeping it charged while presenting.
To lower TCO, both the TH670 and MH741 feature BenQ’s SmartEco technology, which automatically adjusts lamp power to deliver bright, vibrant images with up to 10,000 and 4,500 hours of lamp life, respectively, as well as energy savings of up to 70 percent without any compromise in picture quality. To further reduce power consumption, an “Eco Blank” mode allows users to blank out the screen whenever projection isn’t needed, while a “No Source Detected” mode automatically reduces power consumption to 30% when no source has been detected for more than three minutes. With the Auto Power Off function, the projectors automatically shut down when not in use for 30 minutes. When inactive they keep power consumption to a minimum, <0.5-W standby power, for even more energy savings.
The TH670 and MH741 projectors are available now and priced at $999 and $1,899, respectively. More information is here. Leave a Comment
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rAVe EXCLUSIVE: 4K and iOS9 Come to Barco’s ClickShare!The new firmware update for the ClickShare CSC-1 Base Unit is available now and it adds two key features: 4K resolution compatibility as well as full mirroring from iOS9 devices.
Barco’s CSC-1 was already compatible with resolutions up to 2560×1600 but now, with this new firmware update, the CSC-1 is capable of outputting 4K (4096×2160) via the DisplayPort output. So, you can now connect multiple 1080p images and view them simultaneously, full-resolution on a 4K display. No other wireless transmission system does 4K yet.
In addition, this new update makes ClickShare FINALLY capable of full iOS9 mirroring support (for iPhones and iPads with iOS9) using AirPlay Mirroring built into the iOS software. To do this, make sure you are connected to the wireless SSID from the Base Unit. Then open Control Center on your device and select the AirPlay option.
Here’s the update. Leave a Comment
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Nureva Announces the WhisperTek Surface for Its Span SystemNureva announces the WhisperTek surface, a high-performance bezel-less projection surface for the Nureva Span ideation system. The lightly textured surface can withstand the high-use demands of interactive surfaces and regular wear and tear from pen and finger touches over time. The WhisperTek surface has been designed to enhance projector brightness and color, while eliminating the hotspots and glare that are common with other off-the-shelf projection surfaces.
The WhisperTek surface has an aspect ratio of 16:6, which matches the displayed image of the Span system WM210i model, measuring 10′ (3.1 m) wide by 4′ (1.2 m) high. Two WhisperTek surfaces can be applied side-by-side for the 20′-wide (6.1 m) WM220i model. The product weighs only 20 lb. (9 kg) and ships rolled up inside a compact container, overcoming the shipping and handling challenges associated with large whiteboard and hardboard projection surfaces. Two people can easily apply the surface to a wall and have it ready for use in under 30 minutes.
Here are specific product details.
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Vivitek Takes Aim at Barco ClickShare With New Collaborative NovoPROVivitek Corporation today announced it’s shipping the $799 NovoPRO — taking aim at Barco’s ClickShare product. Vivitek’s NovoPRO collaborative and interactive wireless BYOD “system” offers the same advanced feature set as the bestselling NovoConnect, but on a Quad-Core processor. Equipped with UltraHD 4K support (Buyer Beware: no color bit-depth specified thus, it likely doesn’t do 4K @ 60Hz or 4:4:4) or 1080p @ 60 fps, the NovoPRO streams wireless video. In addition, the NovoPRO also features full Android and iOS mirroring.
The NovoPRO’s built-in Ethernet port and Wi-Fi module allow for standard dual network support so that both a wired and wireless connection can be accomplished to accommodate, for example, both guest and corporate networks. To make operation simple, the optional Launcher buttons allow for instantaneous screen sharing though this USB connected device. In a collaborative setting, the Launcher also has placement buttons for the four screen quadrants to provide an easy selection of multiple display devices. Lastly, the Launcher has the software preloaded, which makes it truly plug-n-plug to PCs or Macs. (No software installation is required.)
Here are all the tech specs. Leave a Comment
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AMX Updates Massio Firmware to Add Switching
HARMAN’s AMX Massio ControlPads now have new NetLinx programming capability that include the ability to integrate any controllable switching product.
Combining a wall- or lectern-mounted keypad, with the device and room control capabilities of a central controller, Massio is a control interface for meeting room and classrooms that’s available in six-button and eight-button configurations and Massio ControlPads each feature a built-in AMX controller. Available beginning in December 2015, this FOC update allows Massio users to choose between NetLinx programming as well as AMX’s Rapid Project Maker (RPM) cloud-configuration tool. A native NetLinx device, Massio ControlPads sit easily on the AMX Resource Management Suite (RMS) platform and, when using RPM configurator, can be fully integrated without any additional programming or coding.
Available in black or white, the sleek aesthetics that allow Massio ControlPads to blend seamlessly into any environment were inspired by AMX Modero X Series touch panels. Integrated Power over Ethernet (PoE) connectivity simplifies installation, eliminates the need for a separate power cable and makes Massio connected devices instantly manageable. Both models are also extremely easy to navigate, with simple, LED-backlit push-buttons that glow blue to indicate activity. Massio 8-Button ControlPads also include a convenient rotary control knob with backlit level indicators to enable quick rotary adjustments of volume, lighting or other control aspects.
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For all you REGULAR readers of rAVe ProAV Edition out there, hopefully you enjoyed another opinion-packed issue!
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Everything we publish is opt-in — we spam NO ONE! rAVe ProAV Edition is our flagship publication with what we believe is a reach of virtually everyone in the ProAV market. rAVe HomeAV Edition is co-published with CEDIA, covering the HomeAV market. We added rAVe Rental [and Staging] in November 2007, rAVe ED [Education] in May 2008 and then rAVe DS [Digital Signage] in January 2009. We added rAVe GHGav [Green, Healthcare & Government AV] in August 2010 and rAVe HOW [House of Worship] in July 2012. You can subscribe to any of those publication or see ALL our archives by going to: https://www.ravepubs.com
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