Volume 16, Issue 7.2 — April 11, 2018
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Industry News Projection Control & Signal Processing Audio Unified Collaborative Conferencing Media Players, Recording & Distribution Security Staging & Live Events Cables, Cases, Furniture, Mounts, Racks, Screens & Accessories
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Focusing on Vision
By Mark Coxon rAVe Blogger
In AV, we are sometimes very product-focused. Manufacturers build best in class products and then engage a dealer channel to make sure those products have a solid strategy to get into the marketplace. Integrators get trained on how the product works, many times engaging with the manufacturers to become certified in the installation and/or programming of the products. Then the integrators websites proudly display a list or set of logos of all of the manufacturers’ products that they install and integrate. Technology, as it seems, is the core from which we think about and describe our businesses, whether from the manufacturing or integration side, and the products make up quite a bit of that description.
At this point, many of you are saying —
“Mark, of course technology is a large part of our vernacular. Technology is what makes these systems work and the delivery of that technology from both a product quality and integration standpoint are essential to our success.”
To answer that, I first want to draw your attention to the work being done at MIT’s Tangible Media Group and the Vision statement that drives it.
“From the three approaches in design research: technology-driven, needs-driven and vision-driven, we focus on the vision-driven approach due to its lifespan. We know that technologies become obsolete in ~1 year, users’ needs change quickly and dramatically in ~10 years. However, we believe that a clear vision can last beyond our lifespan.”
Products change quickly which means product-focused businesses will have to constantly reevaluate their overall business strategy and direction. Companies that develop the skillsets to do proper needs analyses and that take a needs-based approach can dramatically lengthen that cycle and potentially even get away with doing five-year plans to roadmap their business.
My guess would be that if you took the total number of manufacturing and integration companies in AV, you’d find they follow the 80/20 rule.
Eighty percent are most likely product- or technology-focused. In manufacturing, they are the fast followers. The companies releasing me too products six months after everyone else and their value proposition is usually cost savings, most likely passed on from not doing much R&D themselves. In integration, these are the companies doing labor-only installations of OFE gear or the companies bidding 45 lines of a spreadsheet, regardless of what those lines include.
Then there are the 20 percent that are needs-driven. These are the manufacturers doing their own R&D, introducing new products, hopefully, based on customer empathy research done with their end user and integration customers. These companies introduce products and solutions that slice bread better, not just cheaper. They typically enjoy short time frames of prosperity based on the novelty of their newly introduced solutions, at least until the 80 percent catch up or figure out how to circumvent their IP. On the integration side, these are the tried and true design-build firms — integrators who develop relationships with their customers and learn where technology can improve their day-to-day business. These integrators are also typically well versed in managed services, giving their clients a consistent and reliable experience over the course of the intended life of the technologies and products being utilized in the current environment.
My question is: How many AV companies, manufacturers and integrators alike, are vision focused? Can there even be such a thing in an industry that is so reliant on underlying technology, even if your company does have a needs-based approach?
Most of the discussion I see out in the space about the shift in focus of our industry association to experiences seems to be rooted in this same question.
Developing businesses based on vision is hard. It requires you to be open to realities that do not yet exist and requires a company to strike a delicate balance between the execution of existing strategy in the short term while still maintaining a focus on the horizon to see where the currents may be going to push your company in the future.
Many business consultants and coaches describe this conflict all the time when looking at businesses that fail to scale or fail completely. The management of the company can become so involved in the day-to-day execution of production, marketing materials, trade show organization, etc. that there is no one on the bridge actually steering the ship. The captain, therefore, becomes a deckhand and somehow everyone is surprised when the ship capsizes.
Experience in many ways is a vision-focused goal. It is a very fluid and subjective way to judge success in a business or industry, and for that reason, it scares the living daylights out of many technology people who want flow charts and concrete data.
I was talking about this from a trade show perspective with a friend earlier today. It is easy to take a product-focused approach to a show. You need a black tablecloth and a collection of boxes in a pelican case to set on top. A needs-based approach requires a little more effort to showcase a complete system or idea based on a particular application, like a huddle room for example. But having a vision for the future and creating an experience takes time, resources, and… vision. If a trade show that lasts a few days can take this type of effort, then how much harder is it for an integrator or manufacturer to base their businesses on vision?
I honestly don’t think there is one easy answer to any of this, but I know intuitively that NOT thinking about our businesses on this level surely leads to failure or constant reactive decision making, which causes turmoil in the long run, both for our businesses and our clients.
My challenge is to try to think about your business from a vison-based perspective. Is there a higher calling for you and your firm that goes beyond current market needs and existing technology? If there is, what mileposts in will you keep an eye out for to create a map from your current business to the vision-based approach?
I’d love to hear your thoughts on companies in our industry that you think have the best opportunities to execute on vision. Please use the comments below to let me know your thoughts. Leave a Comment
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Apple Could Fail to Recapture K-12 Market for the Same Reason It Owns the SmartPhone Market
By Gary Kayye rAVe Founder
Kids love the Apple iPhone. And most kids in schools who have smartphones have an iPhone — this, all while Android is the world’s leading smartphone platform. And, they mostly don’t use them as a phone. They text on them, Snapchat on them, they post on Instagram and they store their photos on them — lots of photos.
And, when they go to school, they use Google Docs — the dominant platform for K-12 collaboration. Because it’s free.
In the ultimate slap-in-the-face to Apple, they load Google’s apps all over their phones so they can collaborate between each other on projects, do homework and build presentations.
Because of this, thousands of school districts over the past few years have purchased millions of Chromebooks for their students to use. In fact, Futuresource says that Google has a market-leading position over Apple and Microsoft in the range of 3:1.
In an attempt to finally fight back, Apple yesterday held an education-focused launch event at a school in Chicago to launch a new lower-priced iPad in the form of a 9.7-inch iPad with Apple Pencil support. And at $299 for schools, it’s closer in price to the Chromebook, but even though most students prefer iPad over Chromebook, it likely won’t, alone, work to get Apple back to a market-leading position — like they were with over 55 percent of the market in 2015.
Why?
It’s the software, stupid.
Apple’s not just fighting the Chromebook; they’re fighting Google Docs — nearly every K-12 students uses it. Don’t believe me, just ask your own kids.
To combat this, yesterday Apple launched two new apps:
1. Schoolwork — a new app that helps teachers create assignments, see student progress and communicate securely with students.
2. Everyone Can Create is a new, free curriculum that Apple says makes it fun and easy for teachers to integrate drawing, music, filmmaking or photography into their existing lesson plans for any subject.
Will this work?
It’s hard to bet against Apple as they have a 40+ year history of success in education — remember, that’s where they started. And, during that time, they’ve been the market leader in education for 30 or more of those years. They’ve set-up an Education-only portal with all-new school’s only pricing, dedicated apps for K-12 and plenty of free resources for teachers to encourage them to adopt. But, as we all know, adoption (and change) in education is slow — now, it’s S-L-O-W, especially in public school districts.
So, only time will tell. A lot of time. Leave a Comment
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The 2018 rAVe Readers’ Choice Award Nominations Are Now OPEN!
It’s that time of year again! Our Readers’ Choice Awards are open for nominations now and we need you (our readers) to tell us who you think the best of the best is in the AV industry.
In case you haven’t heard every year at InfoComm we give out our annual rAVe Readers’ Choice Awards on the show floor. These awards are given out for FREE! Yes, for free! No, we don’t charge manufacturers (or integrators) to nominate a product, a company or even themselves. Nope, it’s free. Then, when we award the winners, we give them a trophy that we spent between $240 to $350 on (for each trophy). And, we don’t charge for it – we give out the trophies for free. Did I say this is all free?
But we need your nominations for each category before we open up the awards for general voting.
Be sure to nominate your favorite display manufacturer, your favorite distributor, your favorite control system product along with 22 other categories, it is not required, but why not? It’s fun!
We will close the nominations on April 20th at midnight. After we will count each nomination and then open the awards for general voting on the top three or four nominated in each category and it will all culminate in an announcement of the winners at this year’s InfoComm in Las Vegas.
Go nominate your favorites NOW! Here! Leave a Comment
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Neuroscientist Dr. Beau Lotto and Creative Technologist Rana June to Headline TIDE Conference at InfoComm 2018
Neuroscientist Dr. Beau Lotto and pioneering creative technologist Rana June will headline AVIXA’s TIDE (Technology. Innovation. Design. Experience) conference at InfoComm 2018 in Las Vegas.
On June 5 at the Park MGM Las Vegas, the day before the InfoComm floor opens, Lotto and June will join a lineup of innovative minds to explore the creative forces shaping the AV industry. The conference will focus on human-centered design, an approach that considers the human perspective throughout every step of the design process. Understanding the human mind and body can help create AV technology solutions that resonate with users, driving engagement and adoption, and ultimately delivering meaningful solutions. The event will bring together designers, brand marketers, architects, integrators, and live events producers to share their different viewpoints.
“We’re excited to bring the TIDE conference back to our InfoComm show — this time in Las Vegas,” said Dan Goldstein, senior vice president of content and communications, AVIXA. “We want attendees to take a step back from their day-to-day way of thinking about technology. Listening to innovators on stage and seated next to them will open their minds to new possibilities. Starting off the week with the TIDE conference will have people looking at the technology spanning the InfoComm trade show floor in a whole new light.”
Kicking off the conference is Dr. Beau Lotto, a globally renowned neuroscientist and founder and CEO of Lab of Misfits Studio, the world’s first neuro-design studio. The lab creates unique real-world “experiential-experiments” that place the public at the center of the process of discovery. By spanning social and personal boundaries among people, brands, and institutions, the Lab’s aim is to create, expand, and apply their insights into what it is to be a perceiving human. In 2017, Lotto published his first major book, Deviate: The Science of Seeing Differently, examining how disruption leads us to create and innovate.
“What is core to design? Perception,” Lotto said. “Perception underpins everything we think, feel, know, and believe. It explains why we do what we do, when we do it, from the styles of clothes we choose to those we trust. Perception explains why successful design decreases uncertainty. Without this understanding, design fails to foster the level of value and meaning that is essential for success.
Pioneering creative technologist Rana June will deliver TIDE’s afternoon keynote presentation. Over the past 10 years, her technology initiatives have spanned from large-scale data analytics programs to site-specific multimedia installations translating physiological data into richly expressive visuals. Her work leverages biometric data to examine the spectrum of human emotion and transforms them into experiential artworks. In 2012, June founded biometrics company Lightwave, which has been recognized internationally for measuring the energy of large-scale events, including Wimbledon and the NCAA Men’s Basketball Championships and for bringing emotion tech to brands, such as Pepsi, Jaguar, Chanel, and Procter & Gamble.
The keynotes will complement a series of fast-paced talks and panel discussions, breakout sessions, workshops, and networking opportunities.
To learn more about the TIDE conference in Las Vegas and to register, go here. Leave a Comment
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New Study From AVIXA and PMA Research Reveals Shift in Worldwide Commercial Display Purchases
During the next three years, buyers of display products (direct-view and projection) anticipate 20-percent growth in the number of displays per location, even as replacement cycles grow longer due to more durable technology, according to a new report from AVIXA, the Audiovisual and Integrated Experience Association and PMA Research. The report, Worldwide Market for Large-Display Projects: How Buying Decisions Are Made; provides insight into display buyers on a global scale, from spending patterns and technology choices to product satisfaction. The research shows that while commercial-display purchases are shifting toward replacement-driven requirements, there is still a healthy percentage of incremental volume.
For the first stage of the study, key representatives were identified in businesses around the world in three regions: Europe, Asia, and North America. The subjects primarily serve in management roles with responsibility for approving major display projects, and they completed an online survey. The second stage was a program of open-ended interviews with North American buyers involved in large display projects.
This report revealed commercial buyers anticipate nearly half of all display purchases in the next 12 months will be for new locations, adding to their overall inventory. However, the global trend is toward reduced spending on large displays in 2018, even while the number of units is expected to hold steady or grow, as buyers continue to anticipate falling prices.
“The results of this new display market report are consistent with trends shown in AVIXA’s Industry Outlook and Trends Analysis (IOTA) report, which indicate an inflection point within the display segment,” says Sean Wargo, senior director of market intelligence at AVIXA. “New technologies and applications for large-screen displays are disrupting the market as buyers evaluate options. Overall, display revenues are expected to soften in 2018 before rebounding in 2019 and beyond.”
“This report was designed to deliver an inside look into customers’ motivation for purchasing decisions for display technology,” says Wargo. “If you understand your buyers’ intentions, you can come to the table much better prepared. It might seem obvious, but it all comes down to knowing your customer and thus the drivers of growth.”
Additional highlights from the Worldwide Market for Large-Display Projects: How Buying Decisions Are Made report:
- Worldwide, about half of all participants purchased their large-screen display from a professional AV or IT dealer or integrator. In Europe and Asia, the figure was well over 50 percent. In North America, only 33 percent used a professional AV or IT source.
- Respondents cited image quality and better resolution as the top reasons for choosing large flat panels over projectors. The top reason for choosing projectors was ease of use.
- Direct-view LED is starting to gain attention in the minds of large-screen display buyers.
- Customers tend to focus either on features or brand when making product-selection decisions. Learning which is more important to a customer can successfully drive sales.
“Overall, commercial buyers expect to continue to invest in displays, upgrading current installations and adding incrementally to their fleet this year,” said Rosemary Abowd, Senior Analyst for PMA Research. “Understanding the buyers’ hot buttons and limitations is critical to capturing the sale. They’ll start by looking at technology that matches their current installation but can be influenced by a growing need for interactivity and piqued interest in new technologies like direct-view LED.”
The report is available for purchase here. Leave a Comment
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Epson Ships PowerLite L-Series Laser Projectors for Education and Corporate Markets
Epson has announced its new PowerLite L-Series for corporate, signage, education and houses of worship. The new Epson PowerLite L615U, L610U, L510U, L400U, L610W, L500W and L610 use an integrated laser light source, include up to 6,000 lumens of color and white brightness with resolutions up to WUXGA (1920×1200) and have enhanced wireless technology to connect to multiple devices.
Epson’s new PowerLite laser projectors are spec’d to offer maintenance-free operation with up to 20,000 hours using a laser light source. Weighing between 17 and 19 pounds, PowerLite L-Series features are designed to be portable or for installation. The new PowerLite L-Series also supports advanced wired and wireless solutions, including HDMI and HDBaseT. To support BYOD classrooms, the projectors provide enhanced wireless display technology, allowing teachers to connect the projector to up to 50 Chromebooks, PCs and Mac computers, and iOS and Android devices. Educators can also simultaneously display up to four screens with the Epson iProjection4 wireless display solution. The PowerLite L610U and L615U models offer wireless screen mirroring from a smartphone or streaming device with Miracast.
The projectors include the following features:
- Solid-State Laser Light Source and Electrostatic Air Filter
- Versatile Connectivity and Control – Supports a full range of inputs, including HDBaseT 3G-SDI; compatiblilty with Crestron RoomView, AMX, Extron XTP, Control4 and Art-Net for easy integration
- Full 360-degree installation flexibility, including Portrait Mode, Instant Off power, quieter performance and high contrast ratios
Here are the detailed specs on each one. Epson says the projectors will ship in August.Leave a Comment
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Gefen Ships Six New AV-Over-IP Products Gefen is now shipping six new models from their Gen 2.0 AV-over-IP product line including the DVI KVM, VGA KVM and audio-only input and output formats. The Gen 2.0 KVM line claims 4K Ultra HD with HDR support, built-in scalers, video-wall control, independent USB, RS232, IR, audio routing and backward-compatibility with first-generation products.
The new Gefen AV-over-IP line-up includes a new KM Emulation feature which facilitates real-time, simultaneous keyboard and mouse control of each source from all connected workstations, eliminating the inherent limitations of earlier systems. HDMI and DisplayPort products feature maximum input resolution of 4K 60 Hz 4:2:0, and maximum output resolution of 4K 30 Hz 4:4:4. HDCP 2.2 and 1.4 are also supported. The DVI and VGA models support VESA and CEA resolutions up to WUXGA (1920×1200 at 60 Hz) and 1080p Full HD (1920×1080 at 60 Hz).
The Sender units (except DisplayPort) feature a video output for local monitoring of the source. USB, RS232 two-way IR and audio can be routed independently between any sender and receiver unit, allowing end users to control any of the sources and the displays within their network.
The new digital and analog audio over IP units allow integrators to add audio-only nodes to an installation. Each receiver can play back audio from any of the Gefen AV-over-IP sender units, including audio de-embedded from HDMI inputs. These senders and receivers can be used for multi-room music, conferencing, public announcement and live venue audio projects.
All KVM and AV Receivers feature a built-in scaler as well as a video wall controller that accommodates any screen configuration up to 16×16 in sizing and manipulating live and signage content. Digital and analog audio break-out on HDMI, DVI and DisplayPort receivers allow audio that is embedded into the video to be sent to a separate audio system, enhancing the impact of presentations in large venues. HDMI models pass 7.1 channels of HBR (High Bit Rate) and LPCM digital audio from source to display.
The Receivers’ integrated USB hub with two USB 2.0 and two USB 1.1 ports accommodate touch panels, keyboard and mouse, and a variety of supported devices.
A built in two-port Gigabit switch on each receiver allows the daisy-chaining of additional receivers or other IP-enabled devices. In applications such as digital signage, where content is often replicated on multiple displays throughout the installation, the ability to cascade the receivers removes the requirement for each cable to be run directly to the main network switch.
You can see the entire line here. Leave a Comment
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Adder Adds WUXGA AV-Over-IP KVM Adapter
Adder Technology just debuted an IP-based KVM (keyboard, video and mouse) transmitter – the ADDERLink INFINITY 100T (ALIF100T). The ALIF100T is aimed at broadcast operations, control rooms, command and control centers and IT management.
The ALIF100T USB-powered KVM transmitter is part of the ADDERLink Infinity solution. It can be plugged into the back of any computer like a dongle. The ALIF100T uses only 2 watts of power and can also be powered directly from USB, meaning there is no need for power distribution units. The system supports resolutions up to 1920 x 1200@60Hz through either DVI, DisplayPort or VGA and USB stereo audio (Line In, Line Out) is sent digitally across the network. It has integrated EDID management to either allow the true characteristics of the monitor to be passed back to the computer, or controlled resolutions to be imposed.
Here are the details.
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New Scaler and Frame Synchronizer from Cobalt Digital Is 4K Cobalt Digital today introduced its 9904-UDX-4K-IP next-generation advanced scaler and frame synchronizer for the openGear platform. The new offering from Cobalt simplifies the upgrade of HD and UHD systems, enables ongoing use of existing content libraries, and provides features such as professional Technicolor HDR Intelligent Tone Management (ITM) for production and ATSC 3.0 broadcasting applications.
Using the 9904-UDX-4K-IP with HDR ITM, Cobalt customers can upgrade their existing HD (720p/1080i/1080p) and UHD (2160p) SDR (Standard Dynamic Range) infrastructure — cameras, switchers, servers, etc. — to new HD and UHD HDR systems and workflows. And an HDR ITM-enabled 9904-UDX-4K-IP can breathe new life and revenue into HD and UHD content, allowing media companies to archive and repurpose their thousands of hours of such material for HDR distribution.
The 9904-UDX-4K-IP not only upconverts 6G/3G/HD/SD-SDI to either UHD1 3840×2160 Square Division (SDQS) or Two Sample Interleave (2SI) quad 3G-SDI-based formats, but also outputs SMPTE ST 2082 12G-SDI signals for single-wire 4K transport. With its 12G-SDI and quad 3G-SDI inputs, the unit can also perform the reverse processes in downconverter mode. Four bi-directional AES ports support embedding and de-embedding. The 9904-UDX-4K-IP features dual 10GigE Ethernet ports that support emerging uncompressed video/audio/data over IP standards including AES67, SMPTE ST 2022-6 and SMPTE ST 2110. The 9904-UDX-4K-IP also features optional 3D-LUT conversion and supports third-party Wowow and Pomfort color-grading software GUIs.
Here are the details. Leave a Comment
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IHSE Adds Dual-Head/Dual-Link DVI Extenders for Draco Series KVM Systems
IHSE today announced it has added new models to its Draco ultra fiber and CatX extenders for Draco vario ultra KVM matrix systems. Known as the 492 Series, the new extenders support either dual-link DVI up to 2560×2048 at 60 Hz or two single-link DVI sources up to 1920×1200 at 60 Hz. The extenders also accommodate USB 2.0, digital audio, analog audio, RS232 and RS422 signals with the optional upgrade card.
As DVI extenders that support both DVI dual-link and DVI dual-head in the same plug-in extender module, the 492 Series allows for connectivity via point-to-point connections or through KVM matrix switching. By using a standard DMS-59 cable adapter included with the units, users can easily configure the units to support one 2560×2048 display or two 1920×1200 displays.
The 492 Series extenders offer high-performance remote-display transmission of dual-link DVI-D signals up to 10 kilometers over one fiber-optic cable or up to 140 meters over a CatX cable.
Here are the details. Leave a Comment
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Crestron Ships AM-300 AirMedia 2.0 Wireless Presentation System Crestron announced today it is now shipping its new AirMedia Wireless Presentation System (AM-300), featuring AirMedia 2.0 technology. The AM-300 also offers a DM input, HDMI in and out, LAN port for power and communications, and full display control.
Crestron says that AirMedia 2.0 sends video, keyboard and mouse commands wirelessly and is a BYOD solution that an on-screen display with connectivity instructions, room availability, and meeting details when connected to a calendaring platform, includes mirroring with Windows, MacOS, Android, and iOS, without Bonjour software, and it’s capable of both cloud-based deployment and management and enterprise-grade network security.
While a lot of the AV industry’s BYOD products provide just a wireless access point, AirMedia 2.0 is a network-based wireless presentation technology that leverages the latest security protocols: 802.1x network access control; Active Directory user authentication; AES-128 content encryption; and SSH, SSL, TLS, and HTTPS.
AirMedia 2.0 is basically a network-based appliance that can be deployed, configured, and managed from the cloud. Using Crestron XiO Cloud or the built-in web tool, the mobile app can be deployed to laptops and smart devices across the enterprise, and user access rights and firmware updates can be remotely managed.
The AirMedia family includes the following products:
- AM-101 Wireless Presentation Gateway
- AM-200 AirMedia Presentation System with AirMedia 2.0 and HDMI in and out (available June 2018)
- AM-300 AirMedia Presentation System with AirMedia 2.0, DM in and HDMI in and out
- DMPS3-4K-250-C DigitalMedia Presentation System with AirMedia 2.0 capability built-in
- DMPS3-4K-350-C DigitalMedia Presentation System with AirMedia 2.0 capability built-in
- Crestron Mercury with AirMedia 2.0 capability built-in
Here are all the specs. Leave a Comment
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New Clear-Com E-IPA Is Audio-over-IP Card Clear-Com has introduced a high-density audio-and-intercom-over-IP connection card for the Eclipse HX series, called E-IPA. Natively AES67 compliant and SMPTE2110-30 ready, the E-IPA card provides 64 streams of low-latency and high audio bandwidth connections for linking existing and new IP-based Clear-Com products as well as for interoperating with AES67 compatible products. With this card, Clear-Com can deliver up to 256 IP ports in the Eclipse HX-Median and Omega systems.
The E-IPA card comes in 16, 32, 48 and 64-port options, and is compatible with Eclipse HX-Delta, Median and Omega systems. Eclipse HX-Delta can support up to three E-IPA cards, while the Median and Omega can carry up to four, allowing users to build an extremely dense network with a mix of connectivity options.
E-IPA is natively AES67 compliant and SMPTE2110-30 ready. Now Eclipse HX systems with the E-IPA card can easily interoperate with other AES67 compliant products. For example, Clear-Com’s flagship FreeSpeak II wireless intercom system has an all-new AES67-based IP Wireless Transceiver (IPT). With up to 64 IP ports, the E-IPA card can support up to 64 IPTs and 64 FreeSpeak II wireless beltpacks on just one card over AES67 compliant IP networks.
Here are all the specs. Leave a Comment
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Roland Releases Updates Its V-60HD HD Video Switcher to V1.1 Roland Professional A/V has released the new version 1.1 firmware and software updates for the Roland V-60HD HD Video Switcher, an integrated video switcher and audio mixer. The new updates introduce support for Roland’s RCS Remote Control Software, add Auto Scan automated video switching and add panel information commands to the already available RS232 control for use with connected touch panel or other programmable interface devices. The RCS software, available now as a free download for both Mac and PC, provides remote control of the V-60HD over a connected LAN. In addition to the comprehensive virtual control provided by RCS, Roland’s Smart Tally function provides wireless tally capability to any smart device on the LAN via an IP browser setup screen, thus eliminating the need for wired tally cables typical to live production setups.
The V-60HD offers a feature set suited for live event production as well as broadcast, recording and streaming. The V-60HD supports SDI camera inputs plus scaled HDMI inputs for data, computer, tablet and other video sources via a variety of video connections, plus a Program and independent AUX bus for confidence/presenter note monitoring, downstage monitoring or side screens. The V-60HD also offers advanced audio functionality including multi-channel embedded audio, XLR/TRS and RCA analog inputs, and multichannel embedded audio to two SDI outputs, plus comprehensive dynamics and auto-mixing.
Compact, portable and easy to operate, the V-60HD supports six video channels from a variety of inputs, including 3G-SDI, HDMI and RGB sources with scaling on HDMI and RGB inputs to support both video and VESA resolutions from 480i up to WUXGA. A built-in de-interlacer enables 1080i and 1080p SDI video sources to be used simultaneously without external signal conversion.
Program, Preview and AUX bus sources enable flexible output for multiscreen environments such as churches, conference centers, hotels, and trade show facilities. The dedicated AUX bus may be assigned to any of the four discreet SDI or HDMI outputs providing seamless switching from the eight input channels and two still images uploaded via the USB port. The USB port also allows users to save program files and memory settings and upload software updates.
A front-panel 3-inch LCD display allows quick access menu navigation and access to switcher parameters. A multiviewer supports Program and Preview feeds and up to eight video sources with audio meters and labels.
The professional user interface also includes broadcast switcher quality cross-point buttons with PGM/PST LED color indicators, a rugged T-bar and DSK (downstream luminance or chroma keyer) quick edit knobs for key level and gain. Two sets of dedicated controls enable center framing of Split and PinP (picture-in-picture) placement. The DSK can be used to apply up to three layers of composition incorporating titles, song lyrics, logos or graphics coming from the video sources. Video processing enables cut, mix with cross-dissolve and NAM/FAM transitions, with up to 30 different wipe patterns, with seamless transition ensured by time-based correction and frame synch.
The V-60HD also features a 18-channel audio mixer with four TRS/XLR combo jacks with 48V phantom power, an RCA stereo pair, plus audio de-embed from the six video inputs. Audio processing capabilities include powerful dynamics and effects, such as a high-pass filter, gate, compressor/limiter, 3-band EQ, delay and the ability to select audio-follows-video channels. The audio features also include an innovative discreet multi-channel audio embedding function and auto-mixing capability.
Here are the details. Leave a Comment
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New Holosonics Audio Spotlight Technology Debuts Holosonics unveiled newest Audio Spotlight technology — a directional audio technology. Aimed at the digital signage and out-of-home advertising communities it’s designed to place audio precisely and unobtrusively. Audio Spotlight technology creates a tight, narrow beam of audio, similar to the beam of light produced by a flashlight, which is designed for adding sound to any digital signage installation, without disturbing the surrounding area. Holosonics claims that this spotlight effect reduces sound levels by over 90 percent just a single step outside the narrow beam of coverage.
Here are all the tech specs. Leave a Comment
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Zoom NA Adds F1-SP Field Recorder and Shotgun MicZoom North America now offers its new F1-SP Field Recorder + Shotgun Mic system, which comes with the F1 Field Recorder and the SGH-6 shotgun mic. The recorder and mic system mounts to DSLR cameras with a hot shoe.
The Zoom F1 Field Recorder + Shotgun Mic bundles the F1 Field Recorder with the SGH-6 Shotgun Mic and the included SMF-1 shock mount connects the F1-SP to a DSLR thus eliminating unwanted thumping sounds caused by vibrations when shooting on the move. The F1’s audio output connects to the camera’s input using the included 3.5mm stereo cable, and while recording, the F1 can also record to a microSD card, creating a separate stereo audio file that provides flexibility in post-production.
The F1 Field Recorder and SGH-6 mic feature an aluminum construction to make carrying it lighter and features a newly designed LCD display that claims readability even in direct sunlight. Users can monitor levels, battery life, rumble filter lo-cut settings and more, while the one-touch controls that surround the display make recording levels, limiter settings and volume output easily accessible. The F1-SP combination can record high-resolution audio up to 24 bit/96 kHz.
Other features for videographers include a tone generator, sound markers, auto-level recording, on-board limiter, USB connectivity and more. The F1 can be powered using two AAA batteries (included) or with the optional AD-17 power adapter.
The Zoom F1-SP system lists for $249.99 and here are all the specs. Leave a Comment
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Axeos Launches Stand-Alone (aka: Not Ugly) Huddle Space Furniture Pod
Someone has finally launched a “not-ugly” huddle space furniture solution. Axeos, a french furniture company, just launched a new range of AV-focused collaboration and technology integrated (that it calls “Connected Conference Space”) furniture — we would call it a pre-fabricated huddle space dubbed the MX POD.
Our MX POD is designed for collaboration and open-plan office organizations. Designed to allow for AV integrators to add both AV and collaborative gear, it’s supposed to create a huddle space out of any space in an office. It’s self-contained, round and includes a table with a connection panel and it can accommodate a display from 32’” to 40’”. Axeos also says, mechanically, it’s acoustic correction design absorbs noise and contributes to the comfort and the concentration of attendees. The off-the-shelf design seats four. The total height is 1500 millimeters, total diameter is 2220 mm, seat height is 450 mm and it uses a standard table height of 740 mm.
Here are all the detailed mechanical specs. Leave a Comment
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Vaddio Shows New Classroom Studio Solution Vaddio is partnering with Cattura to show how Vaddio AV Bridge switchers and RoboSHOT cameras connect with Cattura CaptureCast devices.
Cattura’s multi-source and multi-room recorder gathers content from all relevant content sources and then records or streams to applications like Kaltura, Opencast, Panopto, YouTube and more. When paired with RoboSHOT cameras and the AV Bridge MATRIX PRO presentation switcher, end users can create live audio and video captures of classroom interactions. When a PC is connected to the AV Bridge MATRIX PRO with USB, end users can bring remote classrooms into the learning environment using soft conferencing programs like Skype, Google Hangouts or Zoom.
The classroom recording studio is well-suited for applications including mobile lecture capture for higher education, recording large corporate events and house of worship venues.
The recording studio solution combines a Vaddio AV Bridge MATRIX PRO switcher, Cattura CaptureCast, Vaddio RoboSHOT PTZ cameras, Middle Atlantic RFR series mobile rack and Shure wireless microphones that can be used in a host of applications including live production, automated presentation and unified conferencing and collaboration.
The AV Bridge MATRIX PRO combines audio and video mixing functionality into a single appliance. It provides a way to add multiple cameras, microphones and other AV devices to a classroom. It then manages the complex process of mixing, switching and controlling those devices into a single USB or HDMI stream.
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Atomos Shogun Inferno and Sumo19 Unlock the Panasonic AU-EVA1 5.7K RAW Output Panasonic’s AU-EVA1 is a great Super35 cine camera with low light capabilities. Now users will be able to unlock the true potential of this amazing camera and its low noise sensor by combining it with the Atomos Shogun Inferno HDR monitor/recorder, thanks to the release of Panasonic’s free RAW output upgrade.
Users will soon be able to capture 5.7K RAW imagery direct from the sensor at up to 30 fps over the 6G SDI connections and record it to SSD media. In 4K resolution you can record up to 60fps from the RAW output in production ready Apple ProRes, Avid DNxHR or CDNG RAW up to 2Kp120 or 4Kp30. The resulting frames are super clean, detailed and capable of withstanding heavy grading.
The Shogun Inferno also helps the EVA1’s slow motion performance. It can record the RAW output at up to 240fps in 2k/HD, direct to Apple ProRes or Avid DNxHR. Perfect for sports, wildlife and a wide range of other uses. All these features will come in an AtomOS upgrade for the Shogun Inferno and Sumo19 to be released this month.
Shogun Inferno also offers state-of-the-art monitoring for both HDR and SDR recording with its 7” 1500nit high brightness panel with the Sumo19 at 19” and 1200nits.
Take the guesswork out of exposure in HDR or Log with Atomos’ unique AtomHDR system which shows a massive 10+ stops of dynamic range on either screen. The display is colour accurate and can be calibrated over time using a X-rite i1Display Pro probe. Benefit from AtomoOS’ full range of monitoring tools like waveform, vectorscope, false colour, audio level meters and pixel-to-pixel magnification.
Users can also load and store LUTs directly into Shogun and Sumo for complete creative control, production to post. With HDMI or SDI users can output their footage in 4K PQ (HDR 10) or HLG HDR direct to a compatible television or monitor for instant preview using our AtomHDR engine.
Here are all the tech specs. Leave a Comment
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Marshall Adds Newtek NDI Marshall Electronics’ new CV620-NDI high-definition PTZ camera is now equipped with NewTek NDI and is recognizable as a source by other NDI-enabled applications and devices connected to a standard Ethernet local area network.
Marshall’s new CV620-NDI utilizes the same smooth tri-synchronous pan-tilt-zoom control as other Marshall PTZ cameras, while adding improved video performance and multi-level fine tune adjustments. Adding NewTek’s NDI capability enables this camera to be integrated, controlled and managed using a range of NDI-enabled equipment. Installers and users will be able to discover the CV620-NDI camera and use the tools that NDI enables for IP workflows.
NewTek’s royalty-free NDI technology allows video and audio sources to be shared bi-directionally across a network, eliminating the need for costly direct connections, expensive cable runs and infrastructure upgrades while turning every source into a destination instantly available anywhere on the network.
Here are details on NewTek’s NDI and here are specs on the Marshall camera. Leave a Comment
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JVC Professional Video Announces Three Additions to Its 4KCAM cameras JVC Professional Video today announced three new additions to its family of 4KCAM cameras. Among other new features, the new GY-HM250U offers integrated graphics and live streaming, while the GY-HM250SP adds sports-specific score overlays. Also new, the GY-HM180U sets a new benchmark for professional compact cameras without built-in streaming or graphics.
Designed for enhanced single-camera production, the GY-HM250U offers lower-third and full-screen titling solutions for recorded or streamed video output without an external CG or production switcher. Lower-third graphic overlays are generated and controlled using a browser-equipped device, such as a tablet or smartphone. JVC also provides a software utility that lets customers upload logos or icons that are displayed in the lower-third of the recorded video.
Full-screen graphics can be advanced manually or presented as a slideshow during extended breaks in the action with user-defined timing. Users can store up to 50 .JPG or .PNG graphics, such as team logos or religious icons, in the camera. Worship facilities, for example, can display scripture readings or lyrics, with the operator manually advancing graphics during the service.
The GY-HM250SP’s score overlays for football, baseball, basketball, hockey, soccer, and volleyball can be placed in various screen positions. Camera operators can update the score using an external Wi-Fi connected smartphone or tablet, or receive real-time scoreboard data automatically when wirelessly connected to a Sportzcast Scorebot that is integrated with the venue’s scoreboard.
Both the GY-HM250U and GY-HM250SP also feature built-in streaming with Wi-Fi and 4G LTE connectivity that provides live access to CDNs like Facebook Live and YouTube. The cameras also work as part of JVC’s S.L.I.M. studio camera system, an affordable approach to multi-camera production that uses the RM‑LP100 remote camera control as a CCU for JVC IP-capable cameras.
Other new features include 4:2:2 recording for 4K/30p and 4K/24p, as well as 4K/60p HDMI output. The new tele macro shooting mode on the GY‑HM250U and GY‑HM250SP provides better focus on close objects than previous models, while the new Zero Config function provides automatic, one-click configuration of the camera when it joins the same LAN as other cameras.
The GY-HM180U lists for $1,795, the GY-HM250U is $2,245 and the GY-HM250SP is $2,595. Here are more tech specs. Leave a Comment
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Studio Technologies Introduces Model 391 Dante Alerting System Studio Technologies introduced the Model 391 Dante Alerting Unit that offers both visual and audible indications that operator attention is being requested. The unit can be used in conjunction with Dante Audio over Ethernet-based intercom beltpacks and user stations that support call light functionality. Housed in a compact enclosure, the tabletop, Power over Ethernet (PoE) unit offers extensive configuration choices to optimize alerting performance. The unit is ideal for a wide range of theater, corporate, industrial, and broadcast applications where party-line and 4-wire intercom is utilized.
The Model 391 gains the attention of nearby personnel via an audible sounder as well as a prism-shaped lens with multiple full-color (red/green/blue) LEDs for visual alerting. The unit responds to 20 kHz “call” signals that are commonly used in both legacy analog and contemporary digital party-line and matrix intercom circuits. Upon detecting a call signal, the Model 391 can provide a visual indication, enable an audible “buzzer” output and even activate an analog line output. The Model 391 is directly compatible with the call signals generated by popular Studio Technologies products like the Model 370 and Model 371 Dante-enabled intercom beltpacks, which generate a 20 kHz tone whenever their call button is pressed.
The Model 391’s balanced line-level analog output offers a unique resource. It can be configured as a general-purpose, always-active output associated with either of the Model 391’s two Dante audio inputs. Alternatively, it can be configured to be active only when a call signal is present. Interfaced using a standard 3-pin XLR audio connector, the line output signal is compatible with inputs on devices such as audio consoles and amplified speakers.
Using the STcontroller software application, an extensive set of configure choices allow the Model 391’s operation to be optimized. Available free of charge and supporting many Studio Technologies products, STcontroller is compatible with version 7 and later of the Windows(r) operating system. STcontroller is used to configure the exact color, intensity, and lighting cadence for visual alerting as well as selecting the level range and audio character of the sounder. In addition to responding to intercom call signals, the Model 391’s visual and audible resources can serve as general-purpose status indicators. For example, the Model 391 could provide a flashing “rehearsal-in-progress” or “closed set” indication.
As a Dante-compliant device, the Model 391’s two audio input (receiver) audio channels are assigned (routed) from source devices using the Dante controller software application. The Model 391 is compatible with Dante digital audio sources that have a sampling rate of 48 kHz and a bit depth of up to 24. Only a connection to a PoE network port is required for full operation.
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MultiDyne Debuts New IP and Fiber Transport System
MultiDyne Fiber Optic Solutions just debuted the SilverBack V, a 12G and 4K-capable camera-back system featuring an IP output. What makes the SilverBack V different is its 12G transport and conversion capabilities.
The same base station can support two camera heads simultaneously and has a built-in multiviewer that provides live monitoring for both camera feeds, along with optional audio monitoring. The SilverBack V also integrates expansion slots to support external I/O connections with other MultiDyne fiber transport systems and third-party products.
In addition to 12G, 8K, 4K and 3G, the Silverback V supports 1.5 Gbps video, audio, intercom, camera control, tally, data and power onto a single tactical, SMPTE hybrid fiber cable and/or IP network.
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Covid Introduces Two New HDMI Cable ProductsCovid has announced the addition of two new HDMI cables to its extensive cable line: a locking HDMI cable and a right-angle HDMI cable. The locking HDMI 2.0 cable, (HDLK) features the Ultra Lock System, making it one of the most secure and reliable high retention HDMI cables on the market. The simple locking device is locked into place by easily pushing up on the switch located on the connector head. These locking HDMI cables support resolutions up to 4K@60Hz (4K-18G), are triple shielded and are offered in several lengths up to 10 feet.
Covid’s right-angle HDMI cable, (HD-RA) is an option when space is limited for the HDMI connection. They also offer the benefit of being a more cost effective solution when compared to purchasing both cable and angle adapter separately. These cables are built using high grade materials including copper foil shielding, and to help with flexibility are offered in 30 AWG gauge size. The Right-Angle HDMI cables support resolutions up to 2160p@60Hz (4K-10G), and can be purchased in a variety of lengths up to 10 feet.
Here are the tech specs. Leave a Comment
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