Volume 15, Issue 8 — April 21, 2017
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Industry News Audio Displays Control & Signal Processing Media Players, Recording & Distribution Cables, Cases, Furniture, Mounts, Racks, Screens & Accessories Unified Collaborative Conferencing
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AV as a Service?
By Mark Coxon rAVe Blogger
If you have gone to any AV leadership event over the last several years, ranging from the Commercial Integrator Summit to InfoComm’s AVEC to NSCA’s Business and Leadership Conference, you know that developing a revenue stream based on service has been at the forefront of the conversation.
Many integrators have started offering managed services to their clients, not only as a way to create value, but also to offset falling average selling prices and reduced margins. They are making investments in help desk software, remote analytics, and CRM systems to deliver the professional support services that their cilents require to proactively manage their equipment and reduce downtime.
Some manufacturers have also entered into the services arena through service contracts. Some of these service agreements have been received better than others depending on the actual value received by the integrator and the end user. In some cases, the service agreements are not optional, and are required as ongoing fees to keep the equipment operational.
Other manufacturers have experimented with the idea of licensing fees as a way to generate additional revenue. In my experiences, integrators and end users alike have not taken well to that scenario. I have seen security network video recording manufacturers and home automation companies both try this approach. The latest experiment with this revenue model I saw was by a control manufacturer who stopped making video switching equipment due to falling margins. Instead, they decided to just create control code for third party video switchers and then charge a licensing fee for every video port used in the system. An end user who wanted to add a new source or an additional display would then have to buy a license for those ports to enable their control. (Insert groan here).
Today, we are also starting to see AV companies and manufacturers adopt the “as a Service” model from the IT world. So what does AV as a Service, AVaaS, actually mean?
If you are unfamiliar with the concept, “as a Service” models typically reduce or eliminate the upfront cost of buying hardware or software for their full price, instead offering an ongoing subscription through monthly payments. Software as a Service, SaaS, models can be of great value to IT organizations, especially in managing versions of software and compatibility.
Take Office 365 or Adobe Creative Cloud as examples. Companies embracing these platforms pay a fee for the software per user each month. The software is automatically updated to newer versions as they become available, meaning the days of having to save Word docs as older versions when sending to specific employees are over. The overall cost of the monthly fees will add up to more than the direct purchase of the software, but the savings in IT support and updating and managing several versions of the software overtime fade to $0.
Given this, AVaaS can be tricky. The upfront hardware costs of flat panels, touch panels and control systems would have to be absorbed on the front end by either the integrator or the manufacturer and then recouped overtime through monthly payments. For that reason, I don’t think we will see a complete AVaaS offering for some time. However, there are a few companies in the AV space successfully offering AVaaS in very specialized market segments that are worth taking a look at.
Video Teleconferencing as a Service
The world of unified communications has seen a large amount of growth in the last decade, especially when it comes to Video Teleconferencing, VTC. The first iteration of VTC involved proprietary codecs at each location that facilitated secure calls through a network of infrastructure owned by the companies themselves. This arrangement gives companies the most control over the security of the devices as well as the quality of service, as they control all the hardware involved.
Due to the cost of these types of systems, software codec based systems like Skype, Lync, Zoom, Blue Jeans, etc. gained a lot of momentum over the last few years. These platforms use encryption as well to secure calls, but all of the infrastructure is off premise and companies access them for free or a small fee for the software depending on the types of meetings they need to run.
VTC as a Service is a model that lies in between these two. For companies that want the additional security and quality of a hard codec based system, but don’t want to incur a huge outlay for the equipment, companies like Arkadin may provide the answer.
Arkadin offers VTC as a Service through a company called Vidyo. Arkadin purchases the Vidyo hardware and client licenses required for each person who wants to join a call. They house the Vidyo servers in their own facility, creating a private cloud that companies can then purchase tiered access to on a monthly basis based on the number of calls and number of participants on each call. It allows companies to purchase access to VTC based on consumption needs and mitigate costly hardware for each location, given that some locations may see higher ROI on those investments than others.
Engineering as a Service
Many companies enlist the services of AV consultants in order to properly address their communications needs and assure that they are taking advantage of cutting edge technology design. Consultants are typically hired on a per project basis and the fees are commensurate with the amount of work those projects take. Because these fees are typically substantial, many times the IT departments may be forced to bid each project separately and if a different consultant wins the next project, the continuity of the designs across the projects can potentially suffer.
Enter AV Helpdesk.
AV Helpdesk offers an Engineering as a Service model that allows companies to hire them for a recurring monthly fee. AV Helpdesk then becomes a trusted part of the IT staff, designing and engineering not only the large AV projects that happen periodically, but also adding value by being available to engineer smaller projects and AV upgrades that typically may not enlist a consultant. AV Helpdesk’s constant presence allows them to partner with their clients to create long term technology plans and to assure each project along the way, whether large or small, utilizes a design and technology that adhere to that road map. This model allows companies to eliminate large spikes in spending on AV design services and replace the project based fees with a fixed monthly amount, as well as mitigate potential compatibility issues with systems designed by different firms with different intentions.
Digital Signage as a Service
One of the most recent entrants into the “as a service’ arena is Convergent, which is now offering Digital Signage as a Service (DSaaS).
The Convergent offering provides Digital Signage content creation, content management, content deployment with continued content updates along with 24/7 monitoring and next day replace or repair service, all for a small recurring monthly fee. The service includes professionally created “Spot Packs,” (with full screen graphics and custom messaging) and a SpinetiX digital signage Hyper Media Player. Based on their preliminary pricing, a corporate facility could have several displays running current and relevant managed content with the capability to add and grow as needed, all for a very affordable monthly charge.
This offering does require the client to provide their own displays with cabling, but the SpinetiX networked Hyper Media Players and the content management are included with the monthly service, which means Convergent may have solved the most challenging part of the digital signage puzzle.
The three scenarios above illustrate that AVaaS can be a great way to offer value to integrators and end users alike without having to have pockets deep enough to seed millions of dollars of hardware into the market. The trick is to actually offer reduced up front costs while minimizing hardware investments and then add value that substantiates the monthly fees. The three companies above have shown that it is possible do all these things.
Some other companies will surely use the AVaaS acronym without delivering the value and reduced initial costs that come with the model, and in that case, they will really just be making an “aaS” out of themselves.
What are some other opportunities for AVaaS models to take hold? I have a few ideas and I’d also love to hear yours in the comments below.
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This Lightform Image Mapping Projection Technology Will Help Kill the Under 100″ Screen Market
By Gary Kayye rAVe Founder
The responses to my recent blog explaining why I believe the projection SCREEN (not projector, but screens) market is heading for a downward spiral have been mixed — sort of. I heard from systems designers, integrators/dealers and manufacturers. On the manufacturer front, surprise-surprise, the screen manufacturers nearly (I say nearly as ONE agreed with me) all universally disagreed. I got texts, emails and Tweets from screen manufacturers saying that the screen market is doing just fine and that screen sale are, remarkably, up. I’ll address that lie a little later — so hold that thought.
From integrators, the response was overwhelmingly in agreement with me — in counting the actual responses, I received various responses in the form of emails, social media, phone calls and texts. In total, I count approximately 300 — a decent response rate. There were seven that disagreed.
As for systems designers, I heard from 11. Nine of the 11 said they agreed with me and two said they have already stopped specifying screens in all small rooms opting for collaboration boards.
Oh, and before I tell you about something called Lightform, let me go back and address the three screen companies who told me their sales were up (not down) in recent years. As I said, one company spoke quite honestly in how they’d seen a 40 percent decline in screen sizes less than 100″ over the past two years and that 2017 was trending lower as well. Of the three that said sales were up, two admitted that they were down on sizes 80″ and smaller. So, there you go.
Now on to Lightform. Check out this video.
And now, take a look at these:
Note: No screen!
So, this is all using a box from a start-up called Lightform. Lightform is aimed at the consumer and small businesses to make projection mapping cheap and easy (cheap as in only hundreds, not thousands, of dollars) using any projector you want. Basically, it’s a computer that you stick onto the side, top or bottom of a projector and it uses a series of cameras and 3D “image scanners” to figure out what’s in the room — in realtime. (Thus, if the room changes, the projected image adapts automatically.) They call this making a dumb projector smart — using their Lightform box. As you know, with what we use for projection mapping, things inevitably move in the real world, and even slight shifts in the set or projector alignment can noticeably ruin the effect. It currently requires tedious clicking around in clunky software to re-align the content. This is why you typically don’t see projection-mapped installations outside of temporary events.
Lightform aims to offer the first end-to-end workflow for projection mapping, making it possible for a single user to 3D scan, create content and deploy an installation in one sitting. By leveraging computer vision, the company says they automate tedious steps while assisting in the more fun process of content creation. They use 3D info to drive AI-generated effects and real-time filters, which users can quickly integrate into their projects. The experience is designed around one explicit goal: quickly turning 3D scans of the real world into compelling motion content (their words).
Oh, and they are aiming it with use on a low maintenance LED or laser projectors — sound familiar?
Look, the laser projector (and the coming on-slaught of brighter LED projectors) will change everything. Please don’t live in denial. The need for screens will plummet. The use of screens will plummet. You WILL BE ABLE TO PROJECT ON ALMOST ANYTHING. Don’t be caught locking yourself in to the proverbial projection rectangle. Please.
Want to order a Lightform when it ships to test it for yourself? Go here. Leave a Comment
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rAVe Announces the Best of DSE 2017 Awards
Unlike nearly every other publication’s awards program, ours have no entry fee and no biases towards advertisers, sponsors or those that spent money of an award-entry program. These are awards that are picked AT THE SHOW based on the actual product shown at DSE — not a spec sheet or a marketing blurb on a product. And, we don’t take any money for them.
We sent reporters to EVERY booth/stand at DSE 2017 and we selected the TOP products in every possible product category for our 2017 Best of DSE Awards. No other publication, or entity for that matter, goes to every single booth at the DSE show and sees every new product demo’d or launched at DSE in Las Vegas annually – so these are THE BEST of THE BEST, which is why we call them the 2017 Best of DSE Awards.
Congratulations to all the winning companies and products!
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We’re Back from DSE 2017 – The Largest Digital Signage Expo Ever
The 2017 Digital Signage Expo (DSE) was their biggest, ever. And, we covered it all here. So, what’s there? We shot about 300 videos of new products from the show floor. These included a 55” OLED display (called Wallpaper) from LG Business Solutions that is the less than the thickness of a dime. BrightSign had all-new 4K media players — including an OPS one — and NEC showed a giant LCD, a infinite-resolution display solution, retail analytics that can tell who you are and a media player on a USB stick. Oh, and the show had the industry’s first analog digital signage display — uh, what? Go look at it — it’s from a company called BREAKFAST. We also took 300+ PHOTOS from the show floor and podcasted! We hope you find this microsite useful and productive. And, while using it, if you have ANY suggestions to make it better for future shows, just send us an email at pr@ravepubs.com — we do pay attention to your ideas! All our DSE coverage is here. Leave a Comment
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D-Tools System Integrator 2017 Now Available D-Tools announced today the availability of its newest version of System Integrator (SI) software platform, SI 2017.
Building on the architecture of the System Integrator platform, including a robust Cloud infrastructure, this major new release adds significant new capabilities and performance enhancements, in addition to system design and productivity improvements, that enable commercial and residential AV integrators to maximize the efficiency of their business processes.
SI 2017 can now report information across multiple projects, providing executives with a powerful BI engine that delivers visual reports and dashboard views of key performance indicators. In addition to pre-configured BI reports, SI 2017 makes it easy to create custom visual reports to understand important elements of an integrator’s business. The D-Tools Business Intelligence engine enables deep analysis of business activities and trends such as profit analysis, product usage, vendor engagement, personnel performance, and even sales pipeline, activity and results.
SI 2017’s pre-configured dashboard views can be filtered by date range and viewed as a graph (bar, line, pie) or table. Pre-defined dashboards include reports such as sales by salesperson, sales pipeline by project stage, top products sold and profit margin by system type, product category, project size and more.
Additionally, the new Dashboard Wizard allows users to create, edit, and clone dashboards to streamline the time required to create additional views. SI 2017 enables two types of dashboards: Summary (for grouped and summarized data) and Tabular (simple data table). The power and flexibility of the new BI engine are ideal for viewing the data needed to run the business in an informed and efficient manner.
Coming in May 2017, the new Customer Portal, built on the D-Tools Cloud infrastructure, enables users to publish proposals, change orders, drawings and other client-facing documents to the web for improved client engagement. Clients will be able to login to a secure web portal to review documentation, make comments and accept or reject the documents presented.
You can sign up for a 30-day trial here. Leave a Comment
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Meyer Sound’s LEO Family Grows with LINA and 750-LFC Meyer Sound‘s LEO family of linear sound reinforcement systems has been expanded with the addition of the new LINA, a compact linear line array loudspeaker and companion 750-LFC, a compact low frequency control element.
The self-powered LINA loudspeaker measures only 20.27 inches (515 mm) wide and weighs in at 43 lbs. (19.5 kg). Also, because LINA shares the same structural footprint as Meyer Sound’s current MINA line array loudspeakers, owners of MINA systems can add LINA to their existing inventory using the same rigging and mounting hardware. Mixed systems of MINA and LINA are compatible using the delay integration in Compass control software.
Meyer Sound says that on the inside, LINA has been outfitted with new drivers and an updated amplifier and signal processing package to conform with the LEO. Compared to MINA, the newly designed class D amplifier affords greater efficiency, and an upgraded power supply enables higher peak output. The 3-inch HF compression driver incorporates a new magnet structure first used in the LEOPARD line array loudspeaker (LINA’s next-larger sibling) for reduced distortion. Low-frequency distortion from the dual 6.5-inch woofers is further reduced compared to MINA, aided by new internal venting and baffling to optimize performance. On-board signal processing has been upgraded for more power, and it now includes optimized Native Mode.
In most applications, LINA compact line array loudspeakers will be integrated with the companion 750-LFC low-frequency control element for extending deep bass performance across its operating frequency range of 36 Hz to 125 Hz. The 750-LFC houses a 15-inch, dual voice coil long excursion driver along with a two channel, open loop class D amplifier and signal processing to provide separate, precisely synchronized power to each voice coil. Like its larger siblings, the 900-LFC and 1100-LFC, the 750-LFC reproduces low frequencies at high continuous levels with clarity, extremely low distortion, and optimized phase response. An integral pole mount receptacle pairs with LINA or ULTRASeries loudspeakers, while an optional rigging frame allows flying in LINA arrays without a transition grid.
LINA compact linear line array loudspeakers and 750-LFC low-frequency control elements are expected to ship June and here are all the specs. Leave a Comment
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Audio-Technica’s Alteros Debuts GTX Series Ultra-Wideband (UWB) Wireless Microphone System Alteros, an Audio-Technica company, just introduced the GTX Series Ultra-Wideband (UWB) Wireless Microphone System. The Alteros GTX Series is a fully digital 6.5 GHz system that provides reliable, interference-free performance and license-free operation, supporting up to 24 simultaneous, high-quality, low-latency (< 3ms), uncompanded 48 kHz/24-bit audio channels in any indoor or outdoor broadcast environment.
The GTX Series operates beyond the UHF and VHF television bands, requires no frequency coordination, license, database registration or STA, and does not cause interference or create intermodulation products.
The GTX Series system launches with three components: the GTX3224 control unit, GTX24 body-pack transmitter and
transceiver. No additional filters, combiners or distribution amplifiers are required. The GTX3224 simultaneously supports up to 24 channels, an additional 24 channels of talkback audio, and eight group assignment channels in just 3U of rack space. The unit features MADI, Dante and AES67 digital outputs that are all available simultaneously and allow for seamless integration with IP-based infrastructures. A single-mode fiber output supports long-distance runs. The 7-inch front-panel touch screen provides access to system settings, monitoring tools, performance reports and other controls.
Up to 32 GTX32 transceivers may be deployed, connecting to the GTX3224 over standard shielded Cat 5 cable, which is operational to 1,000 feet. The GTX Series system’s powerful management software maximizes operational efficiency, enabling users to set up and confirm operation of 32 transceivers and 24 transmitters in only a few hours.
The GTX24 body-pack transmitter may be purchased on its own, without a microphone or configured with one of two Audio-Technica Subminiature Omnidirectional Condenser Lavalier Microphones, the AT899cL4 or AT899cL4SW, the latter equipped with an in-line talkback switch.
Here are all the specs. Leave a Comment
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VocoPro Launches Battery-Powered PA System with Integrated LED Projector VocoPro today announced its new K-CAST product, what they are claiming as the world’s first battery-powered PA system with an on-board LED projector. The K-Cast’s portable PA system has a 12-inch woofer and horn tweeter pumping out 120 watts of power. The back panel includes an integrated LED projector and a guitar input jack, as well as controls for the two included wireless microphones. The 1080p LED projector can includes content deliver from either an HDMI source or via a USB thumb drive. The K-Cast USB drive has a built-in video decoder that will accept the most popular video files such as .mp4, .avi, .mov and .mkv.
The K-Cast also includes two UHF wireless microphones for duet performances and a 70-inch portable screen for outdoor events.
Other features:
- Four to six hours of performance time on a full charge
- 12-inch woofer with compression tweeter
- Remote control uses 2.4G RF for distance and 360 degree reception
- Speaker stand ready
- Includes: rolling PA system unit, two UHF wireless microphones, 70-inch portable outdoor screen
It retails for $699.00. Here are all the specs. Leave a Comment
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Harman JBL Intros EON ONE PRO Rechargeable Portable PA HARMAN Professional Solutions today unveiled the JBL EON ONE PRO rechargeable portable personal linear-array PA. The EON ONE Pro combines the sound quality of a professional system with the convenience and portability of a self-contained, battery-powered solution. Featuring Bluetooth audio, a seven-channel mixer and a rechargeable lithium battery that lasts six hours, EON ONE Pro is designed for portable and rental applications for pop-up musicians, educators, fitness studios, corporate environments and more.
Claiming it as the first all-in-one battery-powered linear-array PA system, the EON ONE PRO has a high-frequency section and two spacers fit conveniently into the base unit. Two spacers provide a long throw for live performances and large crowds, while a single spacer is ideal for conferences, gyms and medium-sized groups. For small meetings and intimate events, users can place the high-frequency section directly atop the base unit.
With a maximum SPL of 118 dB (peak), the EON ONE PRO provides distortion-free audio. An 8” bass-reflex subwoofer delivers a low-frequency response that’s designed for recorded music. The high-frequency section features JBL’s patent-pending Directivity Control Geometry, which optimizes the spacing and angles of the six two-inch high-frequency drivers to deliver full and clear sound over a wide coverage area, ensuring that the entire audience hears the sound accurately and consistently.
The built-in seven-channel mixer with Hi-Z inputs and phantom power enables users to connect microphones, instruments such as acoustic guitars, electric guitars and keyboards, and other sources. The mixer features bass, treble and reverb controls to optimize the sound. The unit also includes a pass-thru XLR connector for integrating additional units for more robust sound reinforcement. Bluetooth audio streaming makes it easy to play back recorded music from smartphones or tablets. A USB charger connection provides power for phones and tablets when needed and the unit features an integrated tablet stand for convenience.
Here are the tech specs. Leave a Comment
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HARMAN Professional Solutions Debuts JBL VTX A12 Line Array LoudspeakerHARMAN Professional Solutions today introduced JBL by HARMAN VTX A12 line array loudspeakers, a completely redesigned solution for mid- to large-size touring productions and high-end fixed installations. Featuring entirely new and proprietary transducer and high-frequency waveguide designs, innovations in the rigging and suspension hardware, and refinements to the physical aspects of the cabinet, JBL VTX A12 addresses the most important needs of tour sound professionals and represents a renewed commitment by JBL to the tour sound community.
The VTX A12 loudspeaker was designed from scratch to address the unique challenges of rental companies, front-of-house engineers and tour sound production crews. All VTX A12 accessories are designed to be lightweight, durable and sized to fit both USA and International truck dimensions simplifying transport and logistics.
VTX A12 features a new high-frequency (HF) section with three uniquely designed drivers that combine the HF phasing-plug and waveguide into one part, yielding better tolerances and increased sensitivity above 6 kHz, while reducing distortion and overall weight. A newly designed Radiation Boundary Integrator (RBI) combines four 5” mid-frequency drivers into the high-frequency waveguide and provides a smooth horn surface for the high frequency section. A lightweight 12” low frequency woofer (LF) features a fourth-generation Differential Drive design, new dual NEO dual-coil magnet arrangement and a host of proprietary JBL technologies for increased excursion, power handling and sensitivity. These elements combine to deliver a system with the highest output per weight, great low-frequency extension, and 90 degree directivity down to 300 Hz.
VTX A12 also features an updated exterior. The full-face grill design protects the loudspeaker components and helps the system achieve a higher Ingress Protection rating (IP55). Even more extensive weatherization is available if desired. The full-face grill also reduces the number of exposed components, allowing the loudspeaker to be finished in a variety of color options to better suit fixed install applications.
JBL VTX A12 will be available in April 2017. Here are all the specs. Leave a Comment
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NEC Unveils New Set of E Series of Professional Signage Solutions NEC Display Solutions Europe today unveiled a new generation of its E Series entry-level professional displays. Now in its sixth generation, the Energy Star-rated E Series digital information displays come in 32-, 43- and 55-inch screen sizes using newly added S-IPS panels and 50- to 65-inch sizes using S-PVA panels. The updated E Series displays feature a slim-bezel design, cleaner OSD and an integrated USB media player for instant use and plug-and-play stand-alone operations.
Content can be played directly from a USB drive and the displays can be programmed with an embedded autostart time schedule function, to turn on the screen and play content automatically at a certain time.
The E Series supports infrared lock to ensure content security and continuity of the display. The feature allows users to disable the infrared remote control sensor, blocking unauthorized persons from accessing the display and interrupting the display output. Screens can instead be controlled centrally via RS232 commands over a cable connection. Furthermore, Energy Star 7.0 certification reduces running costs and the device carbon footprint, delivering low overall cost of ownership.
Here are all the specs. Leave a Comment
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Samsung Debuts Cinema Screen LED Technology Samsung Electronics just unveiled something they are calling Cinema Screen, promoting it as the world’s first High Dynamic Range LED theater display. Citing no pixel-pitch of the LED-based technology, the 34 foot Samsung Cinema Screen is actually aimed at movie theaters but, clearly, has applications in digital signage and rental/staging as well. Cinema Screen is native 4K DCI (4096×2160) resolution and conforms to the DCI specifications used to ensure a uniform and high level of technical performance, reliability, and quality in digital cinema.
The Cinema Screen’s direct-lit LED technology is spec’d for a peak-brightness level nearly 10 times greater than that offered by standard cinema projectors (146fL versus 14fL) with what they say is better uniformity and free of optical distortion and interference. And, for the most interesting spec of all, they say the contrast ratio is infinity:1.
Not much else is known about the Samsung Cinema Screen other than, at this time, its mostly a technology demo but they expect to start integrating it into theaters next year. Here is their press release about it. Leave a Comment
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Atlona Ships AT-HDR-M2C Audio Converter
Atlona is now shipping its AT-HDR-M2C audio converter to extract, down-mix and convert multi-channel HDMI source audio to two-channel HDMI, TOSLINK and analog audio.
The HDR-M2C has an HDMI input with pass-through capability and also strips multi-channel PCM, Dolby and DTS audio and outputs 2.0 stereo signals over HDMI, two-channel analog unbalanced audio and TOSLINK digital audio outputs. The HDR-M2C audio converter includes EDID management features as well as audio volume and bass / treble controls, all available via Ethernet through the Atlona Management System (AMS), the web GUI or a control system.
the HDR-M2C lists for $449.99. Here are all the specs. Leave a Comment
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Key Digital Launches HDMI Matrix Switchers with HDBaseT Output and Support of HDCP 2.2, UHD/4K Key Digital just introduced the KD-Pro6x6CC and KD-Pro8x8CC matrix switchers with KD-XSWRx extenders. These matrix switchers are compliant with HDCP2.2 standards and support resolutions up to 4096×2160 @24fps (4:4:4 chroma sampling).
With KD-Pro6x6CC and KD-Pro8x8CC every input can be routed to a separate output set which consists of an HDMI and an HDBaseT output, both of which can be simultaneously active and mirror each other’s output, allowing for support for up to 16 TVs (eight mirrored). Using HDBaseT technology, the outputs can carry video, audio and control signals over longer distances than HDMI based system. With HDBaseT 4K can be sent up to 250 feet at 1080p/60, 1080p/24, 1080i, 720p or up to 150 feet at 4K/Ultra HD with KD-XSWRx extenders. The KD-Pro6x6CC and KD-Pro8x8CC both support of HDR (High Dynamic Range) video.
The KD-Pro6x6CC contains 27 control ports, and KD-Pro8x8CC contains 33 control ports.
The specs are here and here. Leave a Comment
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Extron Adds USB Matrix Switching Controller to USB Extender Plus Series Extron Electronics has introduced the USB Plus Matrix Controller, which provides a simple management interface to create USB switching systems using up to 64 USB Extender Plus Series transmitters and receivers. Any AV control processor can easily control USB switching using SIS commands sent via Ethernet or RS232. The USB Plus Matrix Controller can be combined with USB Extender Plus Series transmitters and receivers to create a simple, distributed USB matrix switching system for any size room. The system can be configured quickly and easily using Extron’s Product Configuration Software (PCS).
The USB Extender Plus Series extends and switches USB signals from peripheral devices to a host computer up to 1,980 feet (600 meters) through a Gigabit Ethernet network or up to 330 feet (100 meters) point-to-point over one CATx cable. It supports USB 2.0/1.0 devices with data rates up to 480 Mbps and it is compatible with USB 3.0 devices that can operate at USB 2.0 data rates. The transmitter includes USB peripheral emulation to enable trouble-free booting of a host computer that is not connected to a keyboard or mouse. The receiver features a built-in, active four-port hub. The controller provides simple setup and control for creating a distributed USB matrix switching system over an Ethernet network. The USB Extender Plus Series supports USB peripherals such as keyboards, mice, mass storage devices and webcams in ProAV environments.
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ClearOne Launches Mobile Dialer Apps for CONVERGE Pro 2 DSP Platform ClearOne is releasing mobile applications to dial and control its CONVERGE Pro 2 line of DSP mixers. Compatible with both Android and iOS mobile phones and tablets, the Apps come on the heels of the already-released software Dialer-Controller applications for Windows and MAC OS platforms.
These new mobile applications extend choices of devices and interfaces for users, while also providing the ability to:
- Connect with available CONVERGE Pro 2 system
- Support telephone and VoIP dialers
- Make & receive calls
- Make multi-party conference calls
- Put calls on-hold
- Transfer calls
- Set call forwarding
- Add contacts to phone book
- Set favorite contacts for quick access
- View call logs
- Set Do-not-disturb state
- Mute microphones
- Set volume up & down
- Set custom buttons with user-defined actions
Choices will soon become even broader with ClearOne’s soon-to-be-released touch-panel controller and control modules for third-party control systems. With this new solution, ClearOne will offer the full gamut of controller options — Android, iOS, MAC, Windows, touch panel and third-party control systems.
Here are the details. Leave a Comment
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New Shuttle PC Designed for Sharp AQUOS BOARDsThe new Shuttle PN-SPCi7W10S PC is now available as an add-on solution for the entire AQUOS BOARD interactive display line. Equipped with an Intel Core i7-6700 Skylake Processor and 8GB RAM/256GB internal SSD, the PN-SPCi7W10S can operate up to three AQUOS BOARD interactive displays from this single PC. When using three PN-L803C AQUOS BOARD interactive displays, the Shuttle PC uses Sharp Pen Software with integrated Wide Board mode to recognize the multiple screens as a breathtaking, super wide screen.
The Shuttle PN-SPCi7W10S PC is expected to be available for shipment later this month and orders may be placed immediately. It will list for $2,450 and weigh five pounds. But, it’s designed to fit behind the AQUOS BOARD. Here are the details. Leave a Comment
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Magewell to Launch 4K USB Video Capture Devices This WeekMagewell will unveil new 4K models in its USB Capture Plus series of external video capture devices this week.
Like existing Magewell USB video “ingest” solutions, the newest USB Capture Plus models enable all types of computers including laptops to capture professional video and audio signals through a standard USB 3.0 interface, with no additional power source required. Available with SDI or HDMI inputs, the 4K USB Capture Plus devices capture resolutions up to 4096×2160.
The new USB Capture SDI 4K Plus captures 4K video at 30 frames (@30Hz) per second over its 6Gbps SDI interface, while the USB Capture HDMI 4K Plus supports 4K inputs up to 60fps (@60Hz) via HDMI 2.0 connectivity, but scales them at 30fps. 4K inputs with 4:4:4 or 4:2:2 color sampling are automatically converted to 4:2:0 for capture in the NV12 or I420 color space formats, to fit within the bandwidth available in the USB 3.0 standard. Both models offer loop-through connections.
Both new 4K USB Capture Plus devices support embedded audio in the SDI or HDMI input signal, as well as separate audio inputs and outputs for capture and monitoring: line-level analog input and output connections on the USB Capture SDI 4K Plus, and an analog microphone input and stereo headphone output on the HDMI model.
Like Magewell’s HD models, the new 4K USB Capture Plus devices feature FPGA-based video processing, for deinterlacing, up/down conversion and image controls while not affecting CPU availability for third-party software. FPGA-based audio processing featuring ASRC technology delivers superior USB audio handling, while the included USB Capture Utility software gives users advanced control of processing settings and access to detailed status information.
The USB Capture SDI 4K Plus and USB Capture HDMI 4K Plus support Windows, Mac and Linux operating systems. Here are the details. Leave a Comment
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Altinex Expands Cable Nook Product Line With New CNK220 and CNK222 Altinex has added two new interconnect boxes to its Cable Nook product line: the CNK220 and CNK222. Both the CNK220 and CNK222 provide a way of enabling the user to access connections to AC power, USB charging, HDMI, network and other media sources from a table-mounted box.
The Altinex CNK220 includes the CNK200 Cable-Nook Modular Tabletop Interconnect Box and the SP3504SC faceplate. The faceplate is pre‑configured with one CNK-IP-200 module that provides dual AC power and dual USB charging ports. The center module (CNK-IP-212) includes an HDMI video input connector, two 3.5 millimeters audio connectors and one 15-pin VGA port. The third module is the six snap-in port CNK-IP-211, which is outfitted with two RJ45 network connectors, leaving four open ports for customization by Altinex or the integrator.
The Altinex CNK220 includes the CNK200 Cable-Nook Modular Tabletop Interconnect Box and the CNK‑IP‑210 faceplate. The faceplate is pre‑configured with two CNK-IP-200 modules (each with dual AC power and dual USB charging ports) and one CNK‑IP‑217 HDMI module. The CNK‑IP‑217 module has one HDMI pass‑through connector and four blank snap‑in ports that can be customized by Altinex or the integrator.
The CNK-IP-200 module (UL/cUL Listed) in both the CNK220 and CNK222 is designed for 12 Amp AC power capacity while the dual USB charging ports are 3 amps total, 5VDC, Type A, 2.0. These units come with 9.5 feet (2.9 meters) power cables terminated with a single male plug. They will be available in May and pricing is $585 for the CNK220 and $625 for the CNK222. Here are all the specs. Leave a Comment
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Comprehensive Introduces New 4K60 4:4:4 18Gb Commercial Plenum HDMI Over Fiber Cables Comprehensive Connectivity Company launched its new Pro AV/IT HD18G series of 4K60 4:4:4 18Gb HDMI over Fiber Plenum Cables for system integration and other commercial applications. These cables offer a low smoke and fire-retardant plenum jacket, as well as full Ultra HD, 18G 4K 60 4:4:4 end to end performance.
They enable high-speed, plug-and-play HDMI signal transmission up to 100 feet. Perfect A/V distribution for conference rooms, classrooms, digital signage or other commercial applications. Comprehensive Active Optical Plenum HDMI Cables use active components in the connectors to perform electrical-to-optical signal conversion, drawing power from the HDMI port.
Each Active Optical Plenum HDMI Cable is thin, light, flexible and plenum rated to make it easy to pull through conduit. Comprehensive plastic optical fibers can accommodate very tight bends with no loss of signal, unlike glass optical fibers. Pro AV/IT Active Optical Plenum HDMI Cables send video using light pulses, which provide higher immunity to EMI/RFI interference and electromagnetic noise. HDR, EDID, CEC, HDCP and RoHS compliant.
Features:
- Full UHD HDMI 2.0b 18G, HDR, 4K@60Hz 4:4:4, with all audio support — all lengths
- Available in pre-terminated lengths up to 100 feet
- Thin and flexible with indefinite long-term bend radius of ~0.2″
- Strong pull tension (up to 100 pounds)
- UL CMP-OF/FT-6 rated for all plenum applications
- Active connectors require no external power supply
- Polymer optical fiber technology provides low power consumption and low EMI
- EDID, CEC and HDCP compatible
- RoHS Compliant
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Crestron Ships New Line of UL 1449 Certified Power ConditionersCrestron announced today it is now shipping a complete family of professional-grade UL 1449 certified power conditioners. Rack-mountable, the Type 3 Listed PC-100, PC-200 and PC-300 are for 120-volt AC power distribution, switching, surge protection and EMI/RFI noise filtering for AV systems.
UL 1449 is the UL safety and performance standard for Surge Protective Devices (SPD), formerly known as Transient Voltage Surge Suppressors (TVSS).
RMS voltage and current monitoring enables technology managers to log and report line voltage, current, power and energy usage at the input. The external temperature sensor keeps tabs on heat conditions within the equipment rack or room. Network connectivity allows for setup and operation using a web browser, and extensive custom control and monitoring capabilities are enabled through integration with a Crestron control system.
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wePresent Debuts New Collaborative Management Suite for Enterprise Deployments wePresent has announced its new Collaborative Management Suite (CMGS), giving IT department employees a tool to remotely manage the wePresent systems on their network. The CMGS platform is best used for enterprise-wide and other large deployments to allow for mass monitoring.
The Collaborative Management Suite was previewed at the Integrated Systems Europe tradeshow in Amsterdam and you can see the video we shot of it here. CMGS is a server-based utility that allows network-integrated management of wePresent hardware. Once installed, it will allow administrators to schedule firmware updates, change the configuration of individual units or remotely troubleshoot problems with the hardware. Designed for large networks, such as schools or office buildings, CMGS is intended to address the growing need for remote hardware management, easing the workload of IT administrators who oversee an abundance of devices.
More details on the Collaborative Management Suite are here. Leave a Comment
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Crestron Ships Mercury Collaboration Solution Crestron said they have started shipping their Mercury tabletop meeting and collaboration system. Mercury is basically a conferencing phone with a built-in Crestron AirMedia wireless presentation gateway. So, you can use it to collaborate with users in far-sites or locally by using it as a presentation gateway for wireless content. Mercury can make calls from either a mobile device (cloud-codec) or via any standard SIP phone system and it includes both built-in mice and speakers — so it acts just like a speaker-phone.
The collaboration parts of Crestron Mercury from a laptop or dedicated in-room PC can be done using any soft phone, or web conferencing or UC application, such as Skype for Business, Cisco WebEx, GotoMeeting or Slack.
The built-in occupancy sensor on Crestron Mercury enables facility managers to collect usage data to drive efficient room utilization and Crestron Mercury includes enterprise security standards.
Available collaboration spaces in multiple locations equipped with Mercury can be located via the built-in Crestron PinPoint proximity beacon on each console. And, Mercury includes integration with Microsoft Exchange enabling users to reserve a room using Mercury’s on-screen calendar.
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