Volume 15, Issue 3 — February 2, 2017
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Projection Control & Signal Processing Unified Collaborative Conferencing Displays Audio
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2017: The Predictions You Didn’t Hear About
By Richard Blackwell
You know 4K video, AVB, laser projectors and most anything Ethernet-equipped will have a big year in 2017, but there are two technologies that people are only whispering about that you should pay attention to this year. Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Augmented Reality (AR) will both pop up to the level of common conversations this year. I’m not suggesting either will be big sellers in this year’s market, but R&D advances for both will reach critical mass, allowing bleeding edge integration to begin in early 2018, and initial main stream adoption in 2019/20. Here is a five minute synopsis on each that will let you appreciate what’s coming and allow you to discuss the topics when your CEO asks what the company is doing to be prepared for the future. I’ve linked each title to short videos.
AR is not virtual reality where you see only what is on the screens in front of your eyes, but instead allows you to see everything around you with an overlay video precisely positioned in your current field of view, just like any real object would be.
The Upside — Users will no longer need a video display, but instead will use virtual displays that they can make any size and put in any visible location. Prototyping new products can be achieved at almost no cost and no materials. Even better, face-to-face meetings around the world can be had without leaving the office and it will be like your together. Direct interaction with sports, friends/ family, games, wildlife and just about anything you can think of from anywhere. There will be further escalation in video streams and all related products.
The Downside — 4K LCD displays are no longer needed when you can make a virtual device of any size. AV integration firms will eventually see a drop in this type of business and job lose. Congested networks will need to handle even more high priority traffic traffic.
The Take-away — There is almost no industry that will not be touched by AR and you will begin to see folks walking around with visors more commonly by end of this year, and 2018 will be the breakout year as application development accelerates. We all got along just fine without AR, so failure situations will not be catastrophic which will actually drive early adopters and general acceptance. Streaming video sources will increase by an order of magnitude.
Not unlike the HAL-2000, AI will begin to help us make decisions, and then later on make decisions for us in our absence. AI is not a glorified set of instructions, but a process that is beginning to approach the abilities of Neural Synapses in our brains. Our brains are constantly changing pathways and often make two different decisions given the same data, and AI is working in that same direction. We can’t replace an adult human with AI yet, and it will still be a decade or two before memory density and computing power will allow us to get close. How ever we may be getting close to a dog’s intelligence and one place you might see it will be in security-bots.
The Upside — AI will help us make better informed decisions, Power companies will better plan distribution, Buildings will be more efficient with resources, Traffic will get better, commutes will be shorter, research will progress faster, Meeting Spaces will know you and anticipate your needs, war fighters will better anticipate the enemy, and the list goes on.
The Downside — We will rely on machines more and people less, so the march to isolationism will continue. Automation associated with AI will reduce many factory worker jobs, online support jobs and technical analyst just to scratch the surface.
The Take-away — As with AR, there is almost no industry that will not be positively effected by having low cost intelligence available, and many jobs that will be negatively effected by an entity that does not take breaks, sleep or vacation. AR will effect us tremendously and in many very subtle ways at first, but with increasing momentum each year.
So…
In a recent conversation with Crestron CTO Fred Bargetzi, he expressed Crestron’s growing interest in AI, and how important data will be to any intelligent agent making decisions for our homes or office spaces.
While AR and AI technologies may not be as exciting at a 100 GB network switch (to some), they will significantly effect our lives beginning in late 2017 and every biz-dev guy should be asking questions about their company’s roadmap in these areas.
Past writings in this area include:
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The When and Why of UI
By Mark Coxon rAVe Blogger
It’s fun to be a part of the tech industry, but it’s also interesting sometimes to take a step back and look at it from afar. I took the opportunity to do that a couple days ago with respect to all the attention Alexa and Amazon Echo have been getting ever since the Crestron compatibility was shown at CEDIA. Then some lighter fluid was thrown on that with the story about Facebook’s Mark Zuckerberg creating his own Jarvis control system that incorporated Alexa and Crestron as well.
My initial excitement about voice control was tempered over time by the continued hype around the format as the future of the user interface, (UI). I definitely believe it has a place in the future of control, but it will not replace or displace all other forms of UI. I even wrote a mock press release to point out the potential shortcomings of a world that only uses voice as the primary method of controlling everything.
The piece got some immediate commentary online and led to a side conversation about the potential of gesture control to be the future of UI based on its presence at CES this year. I promptly shared another piece on gesture control I wrote back in 2013.
So, with all the hype and speculation about UIs, which one is best? The answer is “it depends,” and to be honest, the right UI may be a combination of many of them in the same environment.
So what type of UI is best for different applications? Let’s take a quick look.
Traditional Devices — I define these as switches, keypads, keyboards and mice. Sometimes the best UI is the traditional one. Nothing beats the simplicity of a well placed switch for turning on lights or the fixed location of tactile keys on a keyboard for entering a large amount of information into whatever system you are attempting to control. Pros: intuitive, Fixed, Familiar, Fast, Reliable. Cons: inflexible, accessibility, security, take up space.
Remotes — We’ve all had these and they usually work fairly well. Line of sight IR issues were solved long ago with RF based communication coupled with IR emitters. The great thing about remotes is that they have hard buttons are always in the same place so you don’t have to look down to operate them like you would a touchscreen. Pros: intuitive, consistent, portable. Cons: line of sight for IR, additional hardware for RF, light interference issues.
Touch Screens — This category includes touchpanels, Smart Boards, Touchscreens, tablets, and smart phones. These were the de facto standard for “high-end” control for years. Dedicated touchpanels were infinitely flexible in their layouts and utilized processors with RS232 and IP control that eliminated the issues with RF remotes and IR emitters in many cases. Touch screens integrated into displays also give users the ability to interact with software applications at the screen without having to go back to their PC. Pros: flexible, customizable, more connectivity options. Cons: potential theft concerns, access, parallax, potential light interference.
Gesture Control — Wii and Kinect brought gesture control to the mainstream, even if they both use slightly different methods to facilitate it. Gesture control allows users to control systems without ever touching them by making gestures in the air. This is a great advantage in public spaces, areas where sanitation may be a concern, or when the display someone may be trying to control is way to large to reach each corner. The gestures do have to be learned and the user may or may not be shy to start using gesture control in public in front of a public audience. Pros: sanitary, accessible. Cons: requires user registration, limits number of concurrent users, learning curve, lighting issues, stage fright.
Eye Tracking — If you haven’t seen eye tracking user interfaces you need to check one out. It’s pretty cool to look at a program icon on a computer screen and then open it by holding your gaze on it. There are fringe applications for eye tracking but the largest opportunity comes in solving ADA issues, where a disabled person that may be paralyzed, can use their eyes to control things around them. Pros: sanitary, ADA, no theft concerns. Cons: requires user registration, limits number of concurrent users, eye issues can make it unreliable.
Voice — There is definitely something cool about having a conversation with your technology, hence the excitement around voice control. It also allows users to not have to manage a physical device for control. It is great for short commands to remote devices that generate longer term results such as: “Play my Spotify jazz list” or “turn on the TV and play Game of Thrones.” Applications that require continuous input become more tedious. Noisy environments can be a problem as well as accents and speech intelligibility. Again, like gesture control, there may be some apprehension to use voice control in public spaces based on potentially sounding silly. Pros: conversational, easily accessible. Cons: speech recognition, proper phrasing, noisy environments, stage fright.
Sensors and Software — This combination could really encompass a lot of UI possibilities. They include everything from passive UI like walking into a room where a motion sensor or pressure mat executes a command, biometric readers that utilize fingerprints to execute commands or open doors based on clearance levels, and even things like IR tracking that is used in Apache helicopter helmets, Nintendo Wii, and camera tracking systems.
Cameras and facial recognition software are also a part of UI now. Android can assess whether someone is looking at the screen so it won’t time out and go black. Sony even had facial recognition cameras in their TVs at one point that would dim the screen when kids were sitting too close, save power when no one was in the room, and could even differentiate between humans and the dog for making theses adjustments. Pros and Cons: vary depending on the hardware combination.
Content and Layout — Now if deciding which type of UI is best for each task isn’t enough, the final part of this is creating the phrasing, gesturing strategy, and mechanical and visual layouts of all of these in a way that is easy for the user to interpret, remember and access efficiently. This is where an understanding of the customers habits, work flow, and experience levels are key.
As you can see, depending on the environment and the task needing to be performed, a single system may utilize two or more UIs to perform separate tasks.
Ironman’s Jarvis is often said to be the ideal user interface. If you pay attention, Jarvis utilizes may UIs, not one. The conversations Tony Stark has with Jarvis are the most memorable, as they are unique, but Tony also uses a combination of gesture control, touch, light pens, sensors, switches and readers to interface with Jarvis as well depending on the task at hand.
So Jarvis is much more than a UI. He is a combination of UIs and great visualizations that are all best suited to perform the tasks they are paired to, and this “blended UI” if you will, creates the overall experience of using Jarvis, or the user experience (UX). We’ll talk more about the UX next time! Leave a Comment
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NEC Display Solutions Europe Unveils PA Series Installation Projector Range NEC Display Solutions Europe has today launched five updated XGA (1024×768), WXGA 1366×768) and WUXGA 1920×1200) resolution LCD projectors in its PA Series professional range. The compact PA Series installation projectors can simultaneously manage 4K/60p inputs, as well as sharing signal output with multiple daisy-chained connected projectors.
Additional developments include color space conversion with Rec2020 to Rec709 specification support, along with HDR10 media profile and 3D support. These capabilities are further supported with a variety of inputs and outputs including HDMI and HDBaseT output. NEC says that picture sharpness processing has been upgraded with the implementation of NEC’s fourth generation Sweetvision engine.
The five new projectors in the PA Series range offer high performance and outstanding picture quality for professional applications. They combine contrast ratios of up to 10,000:1 with a broad feature set that includes highly flexible geometry controls to adapt output for curved and irregular surfaces, free orientation for angled installation, multi-screen and picture-in-picture projection output along with stacking and blending support.
Cost-efficient installation options are increased significantly with support for Cat6 network cabling. Using this powerful cable option, content can be transferred to the projector from up to 100m away using the HDBaseT connectivity standard. Furthermore, multiple projectors can be fed from the one source and daisy-chained from a PA Series projector using the unique HDBaseT-Out interface not offered by other solutions.
With lamp life increased to 5,000 hours, 10,000 hours of filter run time and standby power consumption of just 0.3 watts, PA Series projectors represent a low-maintenance, low-downtime and reduced consumable consumption solution. The updated range reduces running costs through longer parts-replacement intervals, energy efficiency and fewer causes for physical intervention.
The five latest additions to the NEC PA Series installation projectors will be available beginning of February 2017. More information is here. Leave a Comment
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Christie Adds 4K20 Projector to Boxer Line With 20,000 Lumens BrightnessChristie is expanding its Boxer line with the new 3DLP Christie Boxer 4K20 projector. It offers 4K resolution while maintaining the same small and rugged design as the rest of the Boxer product line. Suitable for rental stagers who don’t need the 30K brightness that comes with the Boxer 4K30, the Boxer 4K20 features 20,000 lumens and an updated, simplified GUI.
The High Bandwidth Multi-Input Card (HBMIC) in the Boxer 4K20 provides a variety of connections for high bandwidth 4K signals and allows for 4K@60Hz over a single cable using 12G-SDI, HDMI or DisplayPort. The HBMIC also adds direct fiber input capability for use with a Christie Link transmitter that sells separately or as part of a bundle. All inputs offer preview capability and fast synchronizing or switching between inputs.
The Christie Boxer 4K20 ships in February. All the specs are here. Leave a Comment
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norxe to Have Coming Out Party With P1 Projector at ISE norxe, the new projector company from the team that brought projectiondesign (now part of Barco) to market some dozen or so years ago, has made its product debut now with the new P1 — a single-chip DLP LED projector that’s available in two native resolutions WQXGA (2560×1600) and WUXGA (1920×1200). Brightness depends on resolution (2,500 to 4,200 ANSI Lumens) and it’s spec’d to have an 8000:1 contrast ratio. Using all-glass lenses, there are four options available from 0.8 to 1.6:1 and the projector is LED light driven.
Inputs include two DVI ports, one DisplayPort and one HDMI; control is either LAN or RS232. The P1 projector uses NO moving parts such as phosphor wheels and color wheels as used in laser phosphor products; it’s actually all solid state.
According to norxe Head of Business Development Henning Kirchner, the target markets for the P1 are simulation, virtual reality, augmented reality, control rooms and medical and visitor attractions.
Their EMEA and worldwide debut will happen next week in Amsterdam at the annual ISE show (in the Dome Projection stand in Hall 12/N44) and here are all the specs. Leave a Comment
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Vivitek Intros Two Short-Throw Laser Projectors Vivitek is introducing two new short-throw projectors, the DH765Z-UST and the DW763Z-UST, both laser projectors.
Their ultra-short throw projector design with an embedded reflective mirror allows for a projection size of 80” to 150” diagonal image from a mere 40cm away from the screen, an extremely close distance to the projection surface. With the native 1920×1080 DH765Z-UST and the native 1920×1200 DW763Z-UST both have laser phosphor light engines, are spec’d at 3,500 ANSI lumens and a 12,000:1 contrast ratio. Inputs include two HDMI, VGA and component video.
Both using TI’s DLP and BrilliantColor technologies, the new models have a sealed optical engine and an enhanced ventilation system that’s designed to minimize the impact of dust.The DH765Z-UST and DW763Z-UST will be available in Q2 2017, with a list price respectively of £2,199 MSRP (ex VAT) and £1,899 MSRP (ex VAT). The Ultra Short Throw Laser Phosphor models come with a warranty on projector for three years or 10,000 hours on the Laser Phosphor illumination source (whichever comes first).
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NEC Europe Adds ME Series of Projectors Aimed at Classrooms and Meeting Rooms, Includes Wireless Sharing NEC Display Solutions Europe today launched the ME Series, a range of compact and multi-purpose 3LCD projectors (all native 1280×800) aimed at learning environments and corporate meeting facilities. The new ME Series all range from 3,000-4,000 ANSI lumens and all of the projectors come with MultiPresenter, NEC’s multi-user wireless screen sharing receiver that connects via USB. With the ability to connect up to 16 devices at once via a wired or wireless connection, MultiPresenter allows users to simultaneously collaborate and deliver wireless presentations from any Windows, MacOS, Android or iOS device. No internet or WLAN access is required to instantly present and share content with other participants.
The ME Series is an upgrade from the M Series WXGA LCD projectors. With the same footprint, lens position, shooting and throw angle, the ME Series allows for simple replacement of legacy LCD projectors. Furthermore, the new ME Series offers an extended lamp life of 9,000 hours. Additionally, the projectors are in line with NEC’s Green Vision, with ECO Mode technology and energy-saving features such as quick start up and direct power off. All these factors reduce total cost of ownership.
There are three different ME Series projectors, thus far. The 3600 lumen ME361W, the 3000 ANSI lumen ME301W and the 3300 ANSI lumen ME331W. All the specs are here. Leave a Comment
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Barix Brings Linux Open Source Programmability to New Barionet I/O DeviceAt ISE 2017, Barix will introduce the Barionet 1000, the latest member of the company’s universal programmable I/O device family for IP-based control and automation applications. In contrast to other Barionet devices that use the proprietary Barix ABCL programming language, the Barionet 1000 is the first device to be programmable in Linux using the Open WRT framework. It is also the first Barionet device to integrate wireless support and a USB port for emerging control and automation connectivity needs.
The Barionet 1000’s positioning as a Linux Open WRT platform device addresses the latest industry trend for open source control, and provides systems integrators and OEMs with a clean slate to program the device for almost any control or automation application desired. To maximize the Barionet 1000’s programmable useful features and operational flexibility, Barix has equipped this device with wireless connectivity and a USB interface alongside standard Barionet features, including relay closures and digital and analog I/Os.
As part of Barix’s respected Barionet family, the Barionet 1000 is designed for a range of control and automation-based programmable functions. These include:
- access and door control
- contact closure monitoring, environmental monitoring, alarming, and logging
- failover switching
- motion detection and security camera control
- photovoltaic power management
- temperature monitoring, logging and HVAC control
Physically, the Barionet 1000 has two USB host ports, one 10/100 Ethernet port and one DB9 RS232 serial port; it also has Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g/n 2.4Ghz wireless connectivity and is IPv6 capable. Requiring a 9-30 VDC power supply, this device is built into a classic Barionet Din-Rail case with two relay outputs, four open collector (digital) outputs, and has eight contact closure inputs; four of which are analog capable. The Barionet 1000 also comes with 16M flash and 64M DRAM, and an interface for a Dallas 1-wire 18DS20 temperature sensors, which further simplify wiring needs by eliminating home runs.
Here are all the tech specs. Leave a Comment
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Extron Quantum Ultra Modular 4K Videowall Processor Ships Extron has announced the availability of the Quantum Ultra, a modular 4K videowall processor with high-performance scaling and windowing technology for a wide range of applications. The Quantum Ultra features the Extron Vector 4K 4:4:4 scaling engine and 400 Gbps HyperLane video bus capable of carrying a multitude of high-resolution sources for unmatched real-time performance. A single processor can support multiple videowalls with mixed resolutions and screen orientations, providing flexible system design with minimal complexity and cost. Portrait and landscape output support, output overlap, and mullion compensation provide compatibility with nearly any display technology. RS-232 and Ethernet interfaces provide direct connections for control systems.
Quantum Ultra utilizes a modular card-frame architecture that can be populated with input and output cards selected to match source and display requirements. Multiple card frames can be configured and operated as a single system to accommodate any size videowall. Quantum Ultra can accommodate a mixture of display devices with varying resolutions. Features such as output overlap, mullion compensation, and output rotation provide compatibility with current and future display devices.
The future-ready Extron HyperLane bus delivers real-time performance unattainable by other videowall processors. It has a maximum throughput of 400 Gbps, sufficient to simultaneously carry more than twenty 4K/60 sources with 4:4:4 chroma sampling. It also possesses the bandwidth required to support evolving signal formats, such as 8K, and the higher resolutions, high dynamic range — HDR, greater color depth, and expanded color gamut these signals will provide.
Sources can be windowed and positioned anywhere on the video display. Static image files such as logos and maps can be stored locally on the Quantum Ultra, and displayed with full keying and alpha channel support. Internally generated clocks can be presented in a variety of time formats, in multiple time zones. The integrated VNC client can decode multiple simultaneous VNC server streams for presentation on the videowall. Custom color borders can be applied to any window, with support for rounded corners, drop shadows, flashing and transparency.
Quantum Ultra was designed for continuous operation in mission-critical environments. Redundant, hot swappable Extron EverLast power supplies, dual IEC power connections, a write-protected, solid-state operating system drive, and secure communication protocols, ensure system redundancy, security and stability.
Quantum Ultra setup and preset configuration are performed using Extron VCS — Videowall Configuration Software. System configuration is broken down into logical tasks, such as wall configuration, source setup, preset design, and EDID Minder for simplified integration. Online and offline editing allows creation and configuration of systems with or without an attached processor. Familiar editing controls streamline layering, aligning, and sizing of source windows. With an intuitive workflow and familiar interface, VCS provides efficient configuration of any Extron 4K videowall processor.
This intuitive application simplifies configuration of even the largest and most complex systems. Settings and preset changes within the software are automatically synchronized and stored on the videowall processor, facilitating direct RS232 or Ethernet connection of remote control systems to the Quantum Ultra card frame.
Here are the specs. Leave a Comment
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Altinex Debuts HDMI-Over-Power Cable ProductDubbed the TP315-103, Altinex has launched a product they say can carry up to 1080p HDMI via power cable (extension cable). You connect HDMI as a source (it has an HDMI loop-through) and the output four 15-amp AC outlets with HDMI embedded on them. There isn’t a lot of technical information on the product, but Altinex says there is no interference from the power over the HDMI and that you can extend the outputs up to 100-feet using just power cable extension cords. On the end of each power cable, you will need a receiver that strips off the power and the HDMI separately.
Here are all the details that available. Leave a Comment
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New Atlona Velocity Is Cloud-Based AV System ControlAtlona introduced Velocity today — basically it’s a cloud-based control system. Velocity is comprised of three elements: Velocity Control Suite, Velocity Control Gateway and Velocity Touch Panels.
The Velocity Control Suite is the cloud-based service to create and manage AV control projects by client, client sites, and specific locations such as rooms. An integrator accesses the Velocity Control Suite through a standard web browser and, of course, Atlanta claims configuration is fast and they also say that no compiling or device uploading is necessary and configurations can easily be duplicated across devices, rooms and sites.
The Velocity Control Gateway is a software-based control processor that resides on-site with the client’s AV systems. It is configured and managed remotely through the Velocity Control Suite. Atlona offers the Velocity Control Gateway as a server appliance that can interface with up to 500 devices. For enterprise-wide scalability, a software license of Velocity Control Gateway is also available for hosting on IT server infrastructure, with the capability to serve up to 5,000 devices.
Velocity Control Gateway features an IP-based system architecture that allows redundancy in facilities with two gateways in operation, one serving as the primary and the other as a backup.
For user interaction with AV systems, Atlona is launching Velocity Touch Panels in 5.5” and 8” screen sizes but also says the system allows easy BYOD integration with tablets, smartphones and laptops, as well as PC desktops and touch displays. Web-based GUIs are automatically generated by the Velocity Control Suite and accessible to the touch panels or BYOD user devices through the Velocity Control Gateway.
If you want to see all the hardware and software specs, go here. Leave a Comment
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Barco Launches New ClickShare in 4K Capable CSE-800 Barco is about to one-up the ante in the wireless video/collaboration market with a totally new ClickShare model — finally one that’s actually 4K. The new CSE-800 is a is basically a 4K ClickShare with two 4K DCI (4096×2160) outputs (on HDMI) — but, it’s not as if they just took the functionality of the CSE-200 and changed the 1080p outputs and made them 4K. In this case, you can actually have 8-sources on screen at the same time — four 2×2 tiled sources on each wall. Thus, each of the eight images would be 1080p native resolution. Four ClickShare buttons are included with the CSE-800.
In addition, Barco has added both Whiteboarding functionality as well as Annotation capabilities. In the Whiteboard mode, the screen is, exactly that, a digital whiteboard — like many interactive displays have nowadays. And, Barco says you can draw, write and collaborate with anything shown on the screen and it’s simultaneous. Integrated with Apple AirPlay, Google Cast and MirrorOp, the CSE-800 now has configurable three-layer security as well as the same feature allowing you to hide the SSID of the base unit. But, they’ve added dual-network connectivity to be able to accommodate both the connected network as well as guest network connectivity (to allow casual presenters to be able to connect to a system without having to be given access to the corporate or facility-wide network).
Here are all the detailed tech specs. Leave a Comment
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NEC Intros InfinityBoard for Collaborative Meetings NEC Display Solutions Europe has announced the InfinityBoard, an all-in-one display solution, available in 65” and 84” sizes, aimed at BYOD, collaboration in interactive workspaces and huddle rooms. Designed for video conferencing, creative brainstorming, presenting, reviewing and collaborating, the InfinityBoard provides a modular platform.
Based on ultra-high definition (UHD) 65” and 84” large format displays with InGlass touch technology, the InfinityBoard solution provides what NEC is calling a seamless, paper-like touch performance using a passive precision pen. NEC says this allows users to be creative with finger and pen differentiation allowing for intuitive touch, interactive writing and palm erasing.
The large surface allows users to create, annotate and present on an infinite canvas with the ability to import and export content thanks to the supplied whiteboard application. Using a new collaboration software, the InfinityBoard supports wireless presentation, screen to device and screen to screen interaction. These features keep the InfinityBoard vital to new and modern ways of working. Using NEC’s MultiPresenter function, the solution also supports bring your own device (BYOD) initiatives, enabling users to wirelessly stream what’s on their phones, tablets or notebooks.
The InfinityBoard provides maximum comfort for video conferencing thanks to a combination of the integrated software-powered high-res Huddly camera with 120° viewing angle, the loudspeakers by SEAS and an optional audio microphone conferencing solution, called TeamConnect Wireless, from Sennheiser. It’s also adjustable to accomodate users of different heights and includes a modular open pluggable specification (OPS) Slot-in PC with Windows 10 operating system.
More details will be posted here eventually. Leave a Comment
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wePresent to Debut New Wireless Collaboration Platform and Management Software at ISE 2017 wePresent, a Barco-owned company, is making double debut at Integrated Systems Europe in Amsterdam. The WiCS-2100, which will be shown for the first time at ISE 2017, is the premiere model for wePresent’s Wireless Interactive Collaboration System line of products, and is designed to facilitate collaboration in any environment. As with all wePresent products, the WiCS-2100 supports most major platforms for computers and mobile devices, including enhanced compatibility with Apple AirPlay and integrated Google Chromecast support. The hardware’s UI is designed for better functionality, allowing previews of connected devices by a moderator before they’re displayed, and an enhanced onboard moderation utility that will be a boon to those in the education sector.
Alongside the new hardware at ISE 2017 is wePresent’s Management Suite, a server-based utility that allows network-integrated management of wePresent hardware. Once installed, the Management Suite will allow administrators to schedule firmware updates, change the configuration of individual units, or remotely troubleshoot problems with the hardware. Best suited for large networks, such as schools or office buildings, the Management Suite is intended to address the growing need for remote hardware management, easing the workload of IT administrators who oversee an abundance of devices.
All the products will eventually be posted here. Leave a Comment
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NEC’s New Digital Signage P and V Series Powered by Raspberry Pi NEC Display Solutions Europe today launched the P and V Series, a range of professional MultiSync large format displays for digital signage as well as presentation use. The new displays support the NEC Open Modular intelligence (OMi) platform, enabling the creation of tailor-made solutions for signage. Scalable computing power such as Raspberry Pi compute modules or Open Pluggable Specification (OPS) Slot-in PCs can be seamlessly embedded into the displays to create a fully integrated solution.
The P and V Series line-ups each consist of three models, ranging in size from 40 to 55 inches (P404, P484, P554 and V404, V484, V554). With an elegant and slimline design, both new Series of displays allow for an unobtrusive integration. They are suitable for installations in retail, leisure and museum environments, for corporate signage solutions, passenger information, quick service restaurants and all other public spaces.
The V Series features a display brightness of 500 cd/m², providing effortless readability under common ambient light conditions. The higher 700 cd/m² brightness level of the P Series, guarantees captivating readability in applications where ambient light is high. Both Series use an anti-glare surface to reduce reflections effectively.
The MultiSync P and V Series also delivers enhanced imaging performance via its SpectraView Engine, a colour stabilisation solution which for flagship P Series allows full control of brightness, colour, gamma and uniformity for precise and natural reliable images. Additionally, the combination of high end colour performance with extreme viewing angles driven by hardware calibratable 12 bit Look Up Tables (LUT) enable viewers to benefit from consistently accurate rendering ofimages such as branding and corporate identities.
The P and V Series large format displays are easy to install and operate. Using the free multi-display management software NaViSet Administrator 2, companies can manage all connected display devices from a centralised location. Suitable for 24/7 mission critical applications, the meticulous selection of industrial-grade components and careful design of the P and V Series ensures continuous operation in demanding usage scenarios.
The new NEC P and V Series large format displays will be on show at the NEC Display Solutions booth 5-R24 at the ISE trade fair in Amsterdam 7 – 10 February 2017. Here are all the details. Leave a Comment
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New Sennheiser XS Wireless Microphone Systems Debuts Sennheiser is debuting a new radio microphone series: XS Wireless 1 and – in a preview – XS Wireless 2.
The series uses the Sennheiser evolution capsules, and employs antenna switching diversity for reliable reception. The individual sets provide up to ten compatible, preset channels in eight frequency banks, and are available in a number of ranges across the UHF spectrum — A: 548-572 MHz, GB: 606-630 MHz, B: 614- 638 MHz, C: 766-790 MHz, D: 794-806 MHz, E: 821-832 MHz + 863-865 MHz, K: 925-937.5 MHz. The receiver provides balanced XLR and unbalanced jack outputs.
All XS Wireless 1 sets come complete with receiver, transmitter, microphone capsule or instrument cable, power supply unit and batteries. Two XS Wireless 1 Vocal Sets give a choice of two different microphone capsules, the e 825 cardioid capsule or the superior capsule of the e835, also with a cardioid pick-up pattern. Also included is a microphone clamp. The XS Wireless 1 Headmic Set with ME 3-II headworn microphone is an ideal solution for any live sound application where users need to have their hands free when singing or presenting.
The Lavalier Mic Set includes the unobtrusive ME 2-2 lavalier microphone with mic clip.
The upcoming XS Wireless 2 series, which will become available in April 2017 and that takes the benefits of XSW 1 even further. XS Wireless 2 has been designed for users who need greater flexibility and control. Consequently, XSW 2 has up to 12 compatible, tunable channels in its eight frequency banks, and an LCD display that shows the transmission frequency, AF and RF levels and battery status.
The XS Wireless 2 series includes two Vocal Sets with either a cardioid e835 dynamic capsule or a super-cardioid e 865 pre-polarised condenser capsule, a Headmic Set, a Lavalier Set, and an Instrument Set. All XSW sets are compatible with each other.
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QSC Intros Q-SYS Core 510i Integrated Core ProcessorQSC just introduced the Q-SYS Core 510i Integrated Core processor. An evolution of the Q-SYS Platform, the Core 510i processor leverages the latest Intel platform using a QSC-developed Linux realtime operating system (RTOS) to deliver the most powerful audio, video and control (AVC) solution available. The Core 510i processor offers the most flexible audio I/O configuration options of any processor in the Q-SYS catalog, with card-based I/O as well as native Q-LAN network channel and AES67 capabilities. It is designed for applications that require a mixture of analog, digital and networked audio connectivity, including mid- to large-sized meeting spaces and hospitality applications.
The Core 510i can be deployed in two different software configurable modes:
- Q-SYS Core mode: handles all AVC processing including extensive resources for built-in acoustic echo cancellation (AEC) that can be deployed with the new Q-SYS AV-to-USB Bridging solution for soft codec conferencing applications.
- I/O Frame mode: support for up to 128×128 audio channels as an I/O peripheral into the Q-SYS system for processing on a separate Q-SYS Core processor. It can accommodate any combination of Q-SYS Type-II I/O cards including Dante, CobraNet, AVB or Q-SYS analog and AES/EBU cards.
With the recent release of Q-SYS Designer Software v5.3, all Q-SYS Core processors shipped to date, including the Core 510i processor offer native AES67 capability without the need for any additional hardware or license costs. Like other Q-SYS solutions, the Core 510i processor offers multiple levels of system redundancy allowing the designer to choose the most appropriate redundancy scheme for the project at hand.
Gary recorded a podcast with QSC earlier this week that covered the Core 510i that you can listen to here.
The Q-SYS Core 510i processor will debut at the QSC Systems stand 7-Q170 at the Integrated Systems Conference (ISE) in Amsterdam and all the specs are here. Leave a Comment
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Tannoy Debuts CMS 3.0 at ISEClaiming the reinvention of the Dual Concentric driver, Tannoy is launching the CMS 3.0 at ISE in Amsterdam next month. The latest line of Dual Concentric equipped CMS comprises five models — CMS 403DCe, CMS 503DC, CMS 603DC and CMS 803DC — each designed to replace previous equivalent iterations — plus an all-new CMS 803DCQ 8” high-Q model, designed for high-ceiling/longer throw applications.
The new driver features what Tannoy is calling Omnimagnet technology and a Torus Ogive Waveguide assembly that they said is deigned to deliver more consistent and controlled directivity, with notable improvement in higher frequency ranges, in comparison to previous generations. The CMS 3.0 also features mechanical and aesthetic changes that make the process of specifying, installing and commissioning easier, with new back cans and clamp designs to more convenient termination panels and a choice of grille fixings, from the classic bevelled edge to the new Arco Grille accessory.
CMS 3.0 utilizes a 16 ohm driver, making it able to be used in high performance low-impedance systems powering 8 CMS 3.0 loudspeakers per channel — with optimized performance when used in conjunction with LAB GRUPPEN LUCIA amplifiers.
Here are all the specs. Leave a Comment
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Dan Dugan Sound Design Announces New Automixer at ISE Dan Dugan Sound Design has introduced the Model E-3A, an automatic microphone mixing controller with AES digital I/O. The E-3A is designed to connect to standard mixing consoles via insert points, making it a versatile and useful tool for sound engineers who frequently manage multiple microphones at live events such as corporate meetings or governmental sessions.
The Model E-3A replaces the prior Model E-3. The new version incorporates a bright OLED front panel which is used for automix gain display, management of six matrix mixing buses, and other control functions. The E-3A accommodates 16 channels of AES I/O at 48kHz or 96kHz, and may be easily linked to other Dugan digital mixers for system expansion. Alternatively, users may utilize AES and ADAT I/O simultaneously for a maximum of 32 channels at 48kHz.
As with all other Dugan automixers, the Model E-3A may be controlled from the product’s front panel, the Dugan Control Panel for Java (supplied free), the updated Dugan Control Panel for iPad, and/or the Dugan Model K Control Surface. The front panel version of the Dugan Control Panel is operated by navigation keys and a rotary encoder for setting values.
Dan Dugan is the inventor of the automatic microphone mixer. His gain-sharing technology is widely recognized throughout the professional audio and broadcast industries for creating the best possible mix of live microphones. The Dugan Speech System provides fast, transparent cross-fades without upcutting, choppy sound or shifts in background noise. Transitions between talkers are smooth and consistent, no matter how many mics are open.
More information will be here once the product is posted on Dan Dugan’s website. Back to Top |
Wisdom Audio to Introduce Architecture-Friendly In-Ceiling Loudspeakers at ISE 2017 Wisdom Audio today announced the first in-ceiling loudspeaker as part of its Sage loudspeaker series. Targeting high-performance entertainment audio applications where architectural design aesthetics are important, the Sage Series ICS7a in-ceiling loudspeakers is designed as a multi-channel solution in a media room or overhead channels in an immersive home theater. Wisdom Audio will showcase the new in-ceiling speaker product alongside its new Sage Series Superbars on stand 5-U120 at ISE 2017, Feb. 7-10 in Amsterdam.
Inside the Sage Series ICS7a in-ceiling speaker is a redesign of Wisdom’s Sage P20 driver. This re-engineering introduces a change in the power shading capabilities of Wisdom Audio’s planar magnetic driver (PMD), delivering a fully passive Sage Series point-source product that’s capable of achieving high output down to 57Hz. To ensure maximum clarity, the angled PMD design allows the on-axis energy to be focused straight at the listening area. An optional laser alignment tool (LAT-IC) — sold separately from the system — was created to assist installers in achieving ultra-precise driver orientation, improving focus and delivering incredible imaging. The system does not require active crossover or bi-amplification, allowing dealers worldwide to offer Sage Series performance at a lower price point.
All the specs are here. Leave a Comment
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Renkus-Heinz Introduces New C Series Loudspeakers Renkus-Heinz introduced the new C Series of professional loudspeakers for installed sound applications today. The C Series is designed for permanent installed applications and are being promoted as a “cost-effective” solution for theaters and performing arts spaces, houses of worship, multi-use venues, public spaces and any project where quality sound, high performance and superior pattern control are essential.
The new C Series loudspeakers incorporate the latest generation of Complex Conic Horns, with updated drivers to provide what Renkus-Heinz calls “clean, natural sound” and tighter pattern control. Unlike conventional loudspeaker designs, Complex Conic horns provide consistent beamwidth over a wider frequency range, with the natural, transparent sound that Renkus-Heinz is known for.
C Series models will be available in amplified (CA Series) and passive (CX Series) models, in black or white finish. The CX42 stairstep loudspeaker, an updated version of the CFX41, will only be available in a passive design. C Series will be shipping in Spring 2017. Here are all the detailed specs. Leave a Comment
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QSC Announces New Q-SYS Flex I/O Expander QSC has introduced the Q-SYS I/O-8 Flex Channel Expander. Featuring eight flexible audio I/O channels, a QSC exclusive technology first seen on the Q-SYS Core 110f, I/O-8 Flex allows users to easily configure each channel via Q-SYS Designer Software as either a fully balanced mic/line input with phantom power or a line level output. It also offers PoE+ support for simple, single-cable deployments plus an auxiliary DC power input that can be used for redundancy where required. With the same chassis and mounting solution as the QSC SPA Series power amplifiers, the I/O-8 Flex is ideal for mounting under the table in a conference room, on the wall or in a rack.
Acting as a Q-SYS peripheral, the I/O-8 Flex Channel Expander offers local Audio-to-USB bridging for integration with soft codec applications such as Skype for Business, GoToMeeting, etc. In addition, the onboard control connectivity including GPIO and RS232 can be used to provide Push-to-Talk or Push-to-Mute functionality and microphone LED status in addition to connectivity to any serially controlled device.
Gary recorded a podcast with QSC about the I/O Expander and you can listen to that here.
The Q-SYS I/O-8 Flex Channel Expander will debut at the QSC Systems stand 7-Q170 at the Integrated Systems Conference (ISE) in Amsterdam. All the details are here. Leave a Comment
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AKG by HARMAN Unveils The C636 Master Reference Handheld Condenser Microphone AKG by HARMAN today announced the new AKG C636 master reference handheld condenser microphone. In addition to a custom-tuned capsule with hand-selected components, the C636 is engineered to reject feedback, handling noise and pop noise so vocalists can fully focus on their performance.
The AKG C636 features three proprietary technologies that are designed to address several common problems singers face on stage, including feedback, handling noise and pop noise:
- The C636 essentially eliminates feedback by combining a uniform cardioid polar pattern throughout the entire frequency spectrum with a specially designed suspension and grille for the capsule. This unique approach to housing the capsule avoids unwanted sound reflections on the back of the capsule, ensuring feedback and spill over rejection.
- The C636 innovates by integrating the world’s first double shock suspension system, greatly reducing unwanted handling noise. The capsule sits on a highly absorbent rubber bearing that eliminates any structure-based noise, while an adjustable balancing network cancels vibrations over a wide frequency range.
- A multilayer protection system prevents unwanted pop noises. The protection system consists of the grille, a foam layer behind the grille and a magnetically attached computer-modeled mesh layer on top of the capsule — providing singers with a clear, plosive-free vocal performance. This three-layer protection system is virtually unique to AKG and sets the new standard for pop noise suppression in the market.
The AKG C636 will be available in April 2017 and all the specs are here. Leave a Comment
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Renkus-Heinz Introduces New T Series Loudspeakers Renkus-Heinz just introduced the new T Series of professional loudspeakers for installed and live sound applications. The next generation of the company’s TRX Series, the T Series is designed for installed sound applications, including houses of worship, performing arts centers, transportation hubs, museums and other public spaces. The all-new T Series incorporates redesigned HF and LF drivers for better performance and even more transparent sound.
Available in both powered (TA Series) and passive (TX Series) models, T Series loudspeakers will be built to order with a variety of horn pattern for optimal coverage control, and will be fully customizable, with Renkus-Heinz’s custom color matching and weather resistant options.
All T Series models incorporate the latest generation of Complex Conic Horns, with optimized drivers to provide clean, natural sound and tight pattern control. Unlike conventional loudspeaker designs, Complex Conic horns provide consistent beamwidth over a wider frequency range, with what Renkuz-Heinz says is a natural, transparent sound.
Renkus-Heinz T Series loudspeakers will be shipping in spring of 2017. The company will be previewing the T Series at ISE 2017 in Hall 7, Stand X-185 at Amsterdam’s RAI Center from February 7-10, 2017. Here are all the specs. Leave a Comment
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PreSonus Ships ULT10 Long-Throw Loudspeaker PreSonus is shipping the ULT10, the newest model in the company’s ULT line of active loudspeakers. ULT full-range loudspeakers combine the widest horizontal dispersion of any loudspeaker in their class with a focused vertical dispersion for an ultra-long throw. The result is even coverage throughout the space, enabling the audience to hear clearly wherever they are. Designed for both mobile use and permanent installations, the ULT10 joins the ULT12 and ULT15 full-range systems and the ULT18 subwoofer in the line.
The ULT10 features PreSonus’ proprietary, rotatable Pivot X110 horn and a proprietary, 10-inch, low-frequency driver with a 2.5-inch voice coil. The system is biamped and driven by a powerful 1,300W (peak) Class D amplifier, generating up to 130 dB SPL and boasts a frequency response of 60 Hz to 18 kHz (-3 dB).
PreSonus’ proprietary Pivot X110 constant-directivity, rotatable horn combines ultra-wide horizontal coverage (110°) for broad coverage with focused vertical dispersion (50°) for superior throw. The result is a loudspeaker that can fill the room without introducing early reflections that muddy the sound. In addition, the Pivot X110 horn’s large size (11×11 inches) enables it to control the dispersion pattern lower in the frequency range than smaller conventional horns, so it maintains more consistent gain on- and off-axis, ensuring that the audience at the sides has the same listening experience as those in front. The result is sound reproduction that evenly fills the entire room.
The Pivot X110 horn can be rotated 90˚, so the ULT10 enclosure can be mounted in a horizontal configuration while still maintaining its 110˚ x 50˚ coverage pattern. Along with its compact size, this makes the ULT10 an ideal center-channel speaker for an LCR system or an under-balcony fill. Rotating the Pivot X110 horn can also help fix FOH issues in tall, narrow venues by minimizing early reflections and providing more directed coverage. Add the ULT10’s multi-angle enclosure and presets for live performance, floor monitor use and music playback and you have an extremely versatile loudspeaker that is equally at home at front-of-house and as a stage monitor.
You get two combo XLR and ¼-inch TRS inputs: a mic/line input with PreSonus’ acclaimed XMAX mic preamp and a line-level-only input. The inputs have independent level control, allowing up to two audio sources to be mixed internally and summed to a balanced XLR output for “daisy-chaining” multiple units. A separate direct output for the line input channel provides additional flexibility.
The ULT10 loudspeaker features a lightweight, Baltic birch enclosure with a tour grade, 16 gauge, powder-coated steel grille; ergonomic handles; a locking IEC power connector; and a defeatable front-panel power-indicator LED. A multi-angle enclosure enables ULT10s to serve as mains or monitor wedges.
The ULT10 is available immediately from PreSonus dealers at an expected U.S. street price of $899.95. For more information, go here. Leave a Comment
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For all you REGULAR readers of rAVe ProAV Edition out there, hopefully you enjoyed another opinion-packed issue!
For those of you NEW to rAVe, you just read how we are — we are 100 percent opinionated. We not only report the news and new product stories of the ProAV industry, but we stuff the articles full of our opinions. That may include (but is not limited to) whether or not the product is even worth looking at, challenging the manufacturers on their specifications, calling a marketing-spec bluff and suggesting ways integrators market their products better. But, one thing is for sure, we are NOT a trade publication that gets paid for running editorial or product stories. Traditional trade publications get paid to run product stories — that’s why you see what you see in most of the pubs out there. We are different: We run what we want to run and NO ONE is going to pay us to write anything good (or bad).
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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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