Volume 16, Issue 9.1 — May 7, 2018
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Editorial Editorial Editorial
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Industry News Control & Signal Processing Projection Audio Media Players, Recording & Distribution Unified Collaborative Conferencing Cables, Cases, Furniture, Mounts, Racks, Screens & Accessories
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Amazon CEO Jeff Bezos’ Personal AV Tech Controls the Future of AV and Doesn’t Even Realize It
By Gary Kayye rAVe Founder
Maybe I’m a skeptic. I don’t think I am but, maybe. Having lived in technology for nearly 30 years, it’s not often a new tech product debuts that I get excited about. The iPhone was a giant WOW. Wireless networking was an “its about time” kind of moment as I was one of those power-travelers that used to use a phone “coupler” (if you don’t know what that is, you’re probably younger than a Millennial). And self-driving cars excite me like no other tech product since the first time I saw the so-called World Wide Web in 1994. I can’t wait.
I love new technology and I love all the cool things our industry is doing. HD was a huge, huge deal for us — like, even bigger than VGA on the original IBM PS/2 computer! But, 4K blows HD away. These days, I rarely go watch a movie in a theater that doesn’t have a 4K projector — I go out of my way to drive by two non-4K theaters to go to my local 4K-DCI one as often as possible. I have always thought it was cool that I get to see all the new tech before everyone else sees it — stuff my friends think is cool now (like digital signage and facial recognition), I saw at an InfoComm show or at a Digital Signage Expo a half-dozen years ago or more.
I find myself pondering the future of AV a lot. And, as you likely know, not only have I written about it many times in the past, but I’ve also been invited to speak at countless tech trade shows and special events about the Future of AV technology how how it may or may not affect us all. There seems to always be a technological evolution (e.g., HD to 4K) or sometimes a revolution (e.g., AV-over-IP) that makes for a perfect keynote subject for the attendees. In most cases, it’s easy to see how a new product or technological advancement will change things.
But it dawned on me today that the future of our very own AV market may not be in the hands of any new product, new technology or even an AV company at all. In fact, there’s likely one AV guy (or girl) out there, today, that controls the future of AV for all of us, but doesn’t even know it, yet.
I’m talking about Jeff Bezos’ personal AV technician. Yes, that Jeff Bezos — the one who started Amazon.
Follow my logic.
The Amazon Alexa is AMAZING. Probably the most amazing thing since Apple’s iPhone. And, maybe even more so. The iPhone was revolutionary as it was a handheld phone, an email client, notes taker, voice recorder, calendar, to-do list, wrist watch and flashlight — all in one. It replaced like 10 things I was using every single day. And I didn’t even mention the camera!
About a year ago, I reluctantly bought an Amazon Dot. I had been holding out for the Apple version as I was convinced it would be better. In hindsight, I’m glad I went ahead and purchased the Alexa-enabled Dot as, now that the Apple version, called HomePod, is out I can safely say that it sucks when compared to the Dot. Sure, it sounds better, but that’s not what I primarily use it for so I don’t care. Alexa’s voice-recognition software runs circles around the 2012-era Siri. Someone buying the HomePod for Alexa-like functionality must be experiencing what it was like to use the iPhone’s built-in Maps function instead of Google Maps back in 2010.
Anyway, stick with me here.
Alexa seamlessly and simply connects to nearly everything you want to connect it to. And, it’s updated weekly — yes, weekly — with behind-the-scenes Friday-afternoon firmware and software upgrades. So, just when you think Alexa doesn’t do something you want it to do, she can — you just have to wait until an upcoming Friday — as someone will add that functionality. And, at any time, you can add Alexa SKILLS to yours and have third-party control of your Lutron lighting system, your shades and blinds, your HVAC, your TV, your DVR, your CableTV box, your SONOS, your home security system, your cameras and even your washer and dryer (yes, I have that functionality — even though I can’t find a use for it yet). It can even call people, play any radio station in the world, play movie previews, play Jeopardy!, play Sirius/XM radio — I mean, it can do nearly anything. It’s squarely aimed at the average consumer or home application — all to simplify your life.
\But it could EASILY be upgraded to control everything. I mean everything. Projectors, digital signage networks, AV-over-IP systems, scalers, switchers, audio systems, commercial-grade lighting systems, rooms, buildings, etc. — you get the idea. In fact, a number of integrators, including AVI Systems and Whitlock, have custom Alexa Skills that add connectivity and voice-control of meeting rooms to Alexa. But, for now, that’s not Amazon’s target market — not by a long-shot. In fact, all these higher-end, commercial-like capabilities for Alexa have been, so far, developed by third-party companies like integrators or the manufacturers of the gear itself. None are core functionalities of Alexa. Yet.
But what if was? What if Amazon decided to add commercial lighting control, room control, AV control and remote control of everything-AV to the Alexa — as an out-of-the-box function? A scary thought, huh?
Well, that’s not likely to happen — except for one tiny possibility. What if Jeff Bezos experienced what we all experience in his daily professional life?
What if every time he wanted to make a video call, he had to get to the room 15 minutes before the meeting even started to make sure the system worked? What if he pressed START on his conference room touch panel and nothing happened? What if he switched inputs on his monitor and it skipped the input he wanted all the time? And, what if he tried to connect his laptop to the AV system and it sometimes it didn’t work?
As long as his personal AV tech keeps making his rooms work before Amazon founder, Jeff Bezos, gets there — so he never has to make anything AV work on his own, we are safe — our industry survives just as it always has. But, if he ever experiences what it’s like to really have an AV room that sometimes just doesn’t work right, he could very well yell down the hall, “Get the Alexa Team in here right now and let’s make all this shit work with a Dot!!”
At that moment, the future of AV may very well change forever. Leave a Comment
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Calling All Entrepreneurs and Start-ups: Come Show Your Stuff at IC18
By Richard Blackwell A few years back the InfoComm Trade show decided to nourish its own by opening the Innovation Showcase — it quickly became a star attraction in the InfoComm crown. What’s not to like? There are big prizes, creativity oozing out of every crack, Soon to be famous entrepreneurs (there are rumors Elon Musk considered showing, but he was busy building a moon rocket), tons of cool stuff to see, and of course the staple energy source of all startups — coffee. Lots of coffee.
It’s not too lake to take advantage of this incredible community service offered to the AV world entrepreneur. Get your startup recognized all over the press and have a line of prospects waiting to see your stuff. OK, I was channeling Dale Carnegie for a moment there, but you get the picture. AVIXA and the InfoComm trade show want to give your startup a chance to get noticed for cheap. If you know an AV-related startup, then send them this link and when they are super successful, they will owe you many beers.
Find out about registering your startup here. Leave a Comment
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Crestron Masters 2018: Welcome to the New World
By Hope Roth Halfway through a session on Crestron’s upcoming HTML5 touch panels, a friend who works there texted me, “Your excitement is the most entertaining [thing] I’ve seen thus far in a class.”
What can I say? I’m looking forward to using the same tools as the rest of the software industry. I will have to brush up on my CSS and JavaScript, but it’s a small price to pay in order to play outside Crestron’s sandbox.
I’ve been beating the drum for years now that AV programming is going to change. Some of us are going to adapt, but some of us are going to be left behind. Friends, that change is on the horizon. As AV programmers, it’s past time to start expanding our skill set.
How do I know that (to quote the late, great Sam Cooke) a change is gonna come? I looked at the new products that Crestron was hyping at Masters. Some of them, like XiO Cloud, are pure software tools, with no programming necessary. Configure your devices from a webpage, hand the controls over to your IT department,and pat yourself on the back for a job well-done. XiO Cloud will monitor and manage hardware at a firmware level. It’s our AV/IT convergence nightmare. Don’t Praise the Machine.
But at the other end of the spectrum? New touch panels and a software product (XiO Edge) that are designed to run “real” software (HTML5 and C#, respectively). XiO Edge is a server-based control product. As of now, it will run C# only, no Simpl Windows. The next generation of touch panels will have to support both HTML5 and Smart Graphics, but Crestron is eventually going to force us all to learn how web tools work. Notice a pattern here? Products like VTPro-E and Simpl Windows aren’t going to disappear tomorrow, but Crestron is clearly not trying to keep them around forever.
So what does that mean for those of us who have made a career out of figuring out the best ways to use Crestron’s proprietary software? The good news is, we can now look stuff up on Google (or Stack Overflow). The bad news is, we’ve got a lot of learning to do. I’m already doing development in Simpl# and Simpl#Pro, but my day-to-day code still relies an awful lot on Simpl Windows. I predict a lot of online classes and software books in my future.
Whenever someone asks me how to become a Crestron programmer, I tell them to learn how to be a “real” programmer first… go online and learn about object oriented programming and algorithms. That advice goes ten-fold today. There are some cool new tools in our future. It’s on all of us to learn how to use them properly. Leave a Comment
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Leyard and Planar Acquire eyevisToday Leyard and Planar announced the intent to acquire eyevis, a manufacturer of visual display solutions.
Through this geographic expansion, the companies will better serve customers in EMEA with combined marketing, sales, installation support and customer service.
eyevis, a German manufacturer of large screen systems, is a provider and integrator of visualization systems for professional applications in control rooms, broadcast, virtual reality and simulation. eyevis solutions include displays, graphics controllers, software and accessories. Teracue, a manufacturer and supplier of professional IPTV and video-networking systems, is included in the intent to acquire eyevis. Teracue was acquired by eyevis in 2014.
“This acquisition demonstrates our ongoing commitment to further geographic expansion and investment, specifically in Western Europe,” said Marco Bruines, CEO of Leyard EMEA.
Leyard is here and Planar is here. eyevis is here. Leave a Comment
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Award-Winning Drunk Unkles Play Vegas, Again, at InfoCommThe NSCA Education Foundation is excited to announce the Drunk Unkles’ first 2018 fundraiser, scheduled for Wednesday, June 6, at Vinyl in the Hard Rock Hotel Las Vegas. Now in their 13th year of supporting the NSCA Education Foundation, the Drunk Unkles have generated more than $1 million for the industry through this annual event.
In February, the Drunk Unkles received NSCA’s 2018 Volunteer of the Year award to recognize their continuous efforts to make the systems integration industry better. This fundraiser will not only strengthen the NSCA Education Foundation’s efforts to grow the AV industry, but will also give the industry the chance to thank its beloved Drunk Unkles for all they’ve done.
Dubbed “Awards are Nice … Like Tequila on Ice” as a toast to the band’s recent accomplishment, the Drunk Unkles concert kicks off InfoComm this year. Tickets for the event can be picked up at designated sponsor booths during InfoComm 2018, or downloaded here or here.
Thanks to the generosity of Cleerline’s Rob D’Addario, the Drunk Unkles will auction off a Music Man guitar with an authenticated signature from renowned guitarist Albert Lee – with strings attached (featuring the latest D’Addario strings and accessories). The funds generated from this auction will be donated to the NSCA Education Foundation.
Donations from industry professionals, manufacturers, consultant firms, dealers, distributors, rep firms, and integrators as part of this annual event allow the NSCA Education Foundation to establish meaningful and impactful programs, offer scholarships and provide training opportunities for new professionals and industry veterans.
“The Drunk Unkles are a very humble group that will likely want to hide from the attention and recognition of all they’ve done,” says Chuck Wilson, director of the NSCA Education Foundation. “It does appear, however, that tequila is their sweet spot. The Drunk Unkles have supported our industry in a way that no other group has.”
The band performed its first fundraising event 16 years ago to help the family of an industry peer who unexpectedly lost his life. Not only is the annual Drunk Unkles performance during InfoComm a great party and a fun way to reconnect, but it more importantly brings in funds that allow the NSCA Education Foundation to continue to support the systems integration industry.
Their support helps fund industry programs like IGNITE and the Partner Alliance for Safer Schools (PASS K-12).
The all-star band features Felix Robinson, “Unkle” Steve Emspak and Marc Hochlerin of Shen Milsom & Wilke, Mike Phillips of Hudson Marketing Inc., John Cardone of Cardone Solomon and Associates and “Aunt” Lisa Wenger, formerly of Bosch Communications Systems and now with the Lisa Wenger Band. On June 6, a number of special guests will also be welcomed, including Mark Peterson, Billy Larson and Rob D’Addario.
Here are details on the concert. Leave a Comment
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InfoComm 2018’s Center Stage Speaker Lineup Is Published
InfoComm 2018 will bring back Center Stage to the trade show floor, June 6-8 in Las Vegas. The Center Stage sessions will explore how to increase audience engagement through personalized and immersive experiences by way of augmented reality (AR) and virtual reality (VR), wearable technology, human-centered user interfaces and more.
Leading thinkers and practitioners from the fields of entertainment, enterprise, education, and hospitality, such as Huge, Bravo Media, PixMob, FreemanXP, The Salk Institute, Local Projects, Patten Studio and Marriott International, will take the stage (booth N1646) to present free, 20-minute sessions throughout all three days of the InfoComm show.
“We’re excited to have Center Stage return after a successful debut at InfoComm 2017,” said Jason McGraw, CTS, CAE, senior vice president of expositions, AVIXA. “It’s a great opportunity to learn from these bright creatives who employ technology to push the human potential to learn, connect, and entertain.”
In the Center Stage session Personalization of Digital Signage Content, David Title, chief engagement officer of Bravo Media and Manolo Almagro, managing partner of Q Division, will bring their expertise of advertising media psychology to discuss the complicated art of translating analytics information into a genuinely fun experience. They’ll discuss what displays and sensors are needed to achieve that personal experience and how to show technology buyers they’re getting their ROI.
The session The Psychology of User Interface Design led by Sundar Raman, director of creative engineering, Local Projects, and James Patten, director of Patten Studio, will explore how technologies like voice, motion, heat and RFID sensors, can be used to analyze human actions and emotions and turn the human into a user interface.
The Center Stage session lineup also includes:
- AR for Immersive Live Experiences
Cortney Harding, Founder of Friends with Holograms
- Why Our Voice Assistants Need Ethics
Sophie Kleber, Executive Director of Product and Innovation, Huge
- Wearable Technology for Connecting Audiences
Vincent Leclerc, Partner and Chief Technology Officer, PixMob
Christopher Cowley, Senior Director of Technology, C2 International
- Experience Capture Technology for Improving Event Design
Haluk Kulin, Senior Vice President of Strategy and Data, FreemanXP
Sergei Gepshtein, Director of the Collaboratory for Adaptive Sensory Technologies at the Salk Institute
- Incorporating VR into the Online Classroom
Julian McCrea, CEO of Portal Experiences
- Using Videoconferencing to Connect Learning Communities
Amar Bakshi, Founder and Creative Director, Shared_Studios
Lewis Lee, Curator, Shared_Studios
- How Buildings of the Future Will Change in Response to Human Occupants
Neil Redding, Director of Emerging Technology, ThoughtWorks
Güvenç Özel, Principal, Ozel Office
- Combining Live Music with Both Physical and Virtual New Media
Yo-Yo Lin, Media Artist and Art Director, The Family
Steve Dabal, Co-Founder and Creative Director, The Family
- Creating Empathy with Immersive Audio in VR and Video Games
Joanna Fang, Foley Artist, Alchemy Post Sound
David Grinbaum, Co-Founder and Chief Technology Officer of Chapter Four
- How Hospitality Brands Use VR and Interactive Video to Engage Guests
David Kepron, Vice President of Global Design Strategies, Distinctive Premium Brands, Marriott International
Bill Lally, President of Mode:Green
- Innovators in Online Video Content Creation Reveal the Secrets to Compulsively Watchable Content
Alesia Hendley, Multimedia Journalist and AV Operator, Berry Center, Cypress-Fairbanks Independent School District
Will Curran, Founder and Owner of Endless Events
“By putting innovators in conversation, Center Stage shows how AV is leveraged across disciplines to create something really exciting,” said Rachel Bradshaw, director of exhibition content, AVIXA. “Center Stage is a beacon of inspiration in the middle of the show floor.”
For more information on Center Stage, go here.
InfoComm 2018 will be held June 2-8 (exhibits June 6-8) at the Las Vegas Convention Center. To register to attend, go here. Leave a Comment
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Leon Speakers Buys Outdoor Speaker Specialist Terra SpeakersToday Leon Speakers announced that it has acquired Terra Speakers, Maine-based manufacturer of rugged, all-weather speakers.
Leon and Terra have a long history of working together. Terra’s All Climate FIVE line of all-weather loudspeakers was designed in partnership with Kaplan, and Leon’s Boundary Series outdoor speakers are made with drivers manufactured by Terra at its Maine plant.
The acquisition will bring a whole host of new products to Leon’s current residential and commercial product lines, especially bolstering their outdoor audio offerings. Terra is known in the industry for creating durable speakers that are built to thrive in rugged weather conditions, and their current product line will help to build out Leon’s Boundary Series of outdoor speakers. The merger also opens up new opportunities in the professional and house of worship market on the commercial side of their business, as Terra has been a player in this area for many years.
So far there’s no information on how this will affect dealers or employees of Terra Speakers, but in an email to partners, Leon Speakers founder Noah Kaplan said more information on how the two companies would be working together is forthcoming.
Leon Speakers is here. Terra Speakers is here. Leave a Comment
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Location-Based Virtual Reality Market to Reach $809 Million
News reports of experiential location-based virtual reality (LBVR) in shopping arcades, theme parks and movie theatres are taking the global press by storm. Companies including FoxNext, Zero Latency and Disney’s ILMxLab with Star Wars are demonstrating that LBVR is a viable business for investment, which is clearly enticing mainstream consumers to satisfy their VR curiosity. This is demonstrated by the high levels of growth, with consumer spend expected to reach $809 million by 2022, according to the latest VR Tracker Report from Futuresource Consulting.
“Q1 2018 saw significant growth and rising consumer spend, which is expected to lead to full year spend of $299 million in 2018 across the four types of LBVR categorised as arcades, multi-player experiences, VR cinemas and VR theme parks,” commented Carl Hibbert, associate director of consumer media & technology at Futuresource Consulting. “Of all four categories, ‘VRcades’ has seen the fastest take off. The category was estimated at $79 million consumer spend in 2017, accounting for 40 percent of all LBVR revenues.”
The VRcade category has the highest number of locations, with an estimated 4,000 worldwide, of which those in China account for 75-80 percent. However, the VRcades, particularly those in China, offer low-cost and consequently limited quality experiences, according to the Futuresource Consulting Global Virtual Reality Tracker Report.
However, at the other end of the spectrum are high-end, free-roam and interactive multi-player ‘location-based’ VR experiences. By 2022, multiplayer VR experiences will account for 41 percent of Global LBVR consumer spend.
“Multi-player LBVR allows players to roam free, untethered and with others in a VR environment. This category is expected to have the highest CAGR rate across the forecast period, despite a lower number of installations. This is due to consumer desire to pay for sociable experiences with friends, especially in more developed markets. Furthermore, the majority of multi-player installations offer original content restricted to franchise partners, thus remaining exclusive and adding to the attractiveness,” added Hibbert.
Notable players in the market such as The Void and IMAX are banking on using well-known franchises to support their roll-out of LBVR and support consumers’ appeal of this new tech medium. But with the cost of popular franchises restrictive for many, start-ups including Zero Latency are building their own content and experience portfolio.
Location-based VR is seeing popularity as the entry point for mass consumer adoption of VR, as it serves well to increase consumer awareness and engagement with the technology. The at-home market has seen slower than expected uptake, whereas LBVR allows consumers to experience VR without the large investment costs involved in purchasing hardware.
You can get the FutureSource report here. Leave a Comment
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Xantech Introduces New HDMI Distribution Line Nortek Security & Control (NSC) today introduced its all-new line of Xantech HDMI distribution solutions — including extenders, switchers and distributions amps. Xantech, traditionally known as a control accessory company, is expending its video product line considerably with these new products — all centered around sending HDMI signals longer distances as well as solving quirky HDMI routing issues.
The three new Xantech extenders include:
- The XT-HDBT-EX100-4K18G-KIT: 4K HDBaseT extender delivers HDMI 2.0 with HDCP 2.2 support, Bi-directional IR, RS-232 and PoH (PoE) up to lengths of 70m at 4K (100m at 1080p) over a single CAT cable.
- The XT-HDBT-EX70-4K-KIT: 4K HDBaseT solution delivers HDMI with HDCP 2.2 support, Bi-directional IR and PoH (PoE) up to lengths of 40m at 4K (70m at 1080p) over a single CAT cable.
- The XT-CAT-EX40-KIT: Slim-line extender provides HDMI distribution over a single CAT cable at outstanding value and delivers HDMI & Bi-directional IR up to lengths of 40m @ 1080p and 50m @ 1080i.
Five new Xantech splitters include:
- The XT-HDBT-SP14-KIT: 4K UHD HDBaseT splitter distributes a single HDMI source to four simultaneous HDBaseT outputs with HDCP 2.2 support.
- The XT-SP12-4K18G: 4K HDMI 2.0 splitter distributes a single HDMI source to two simultaneous outputs, and supports full HDMI 2.0 and HDCP 2.2 with video resolutions up to and including 4K @ 60Hz 4:4:4.
- The XT-SP14-4K18G: 4K HDMI 2.0 splitter distributes a single HDMI source to four simultaneous outputs and supports full HDMI 2.0 and HDCP 2.2 with video resolutions up to and including 4K @ 60Hz 4:4:4.
- The XT-SW21-4K18G: 4K HDMI 2.0 switcher distributes 2x HDMI sources to a single output and supports full HDMI 2.0 and HDCP 2.2 with video resolutions up to and including 4K @ 60Hz 4:4:4.
- The XT-SW41-4K18G: 4K HDMI 2.0 switcher distributes 4x HDMI sources to a single output and supports full HDMI 2.0 and HDCP 2.2 with video resolutions up to and including 4K @ 60Hz 4:4:4.
Providing exceptional performance and value, the three new Xantech matrix switchers include:
- The XT-HDBT-MX44-4K-KIT: The 4×4 HDBaseT Matrix, a 4K HDCP 2.2 Matrix package, delivers HDMI, Bi-directional IR and PoH (PoE) up to lengths of 70m over a single CAT cable and includes simultaneous HDBaseT/HDMI on output 1 and a web browser interface module for control and configuration of the matrix.
- The XT-HDMI-MX44-4K18G: 4K HDMI matrix features HDMI 2.0 chipsets with HDCP 2.2 support, allowing for the distribution of four HDMI sources to four displays. The unit transmits all HDMI resolutions up to and including 4K 60Hz 4:4:4.
- The XT-HDMI-MX42-4K18G: 4K HDMI matrix features HDMI 2.0 chipsets with HDCP 2.2 support, allowing distribution of four HDMI sources to two displays. The unit transmits all HDMI resolutions up to and including 4K 60Hz 4:4:4.
Designed to seamlessly convert and distribute audio signals in any installation, the new Xantech audio accessory offerings include:
- The XT-CAT-ARC-KIT: Audio over CAT cable solution transmits digital audio signals up to distance of 300m (192kHz signals up to 100m). This plug-and-play device will extend both optical and coaxial digital inputs concurrently.
- The XT-DAC-12: Designed to convert either coaxial or optical signals from a digital signal to analog stereo audio. This unit includes a digital converter for converting an optical signal to a coaxial signal.
- The XT-DIG-11: Designed to convert coaxial or optical digital audio signals from one signal type to another, this unit supports 192kHz sample rates for enhanced sound reproduction. Outputs are simultaneous so that audio can be distributed to multiple locations.
And the new Xantech HDMI-SM-4K18G HDMI Signal Manager is designed to help solve issues with HDMI compatibility, HDCP 2.2, clock stretching, EDID and handshaking that are common when distributing higher bandwidth HDMI signals over longer distances.
Here are all the specs. Leave a Comment
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Just Add Power Pushes 4K Latency Spec to 16ms from Source to ScreenJust Add Power (J+P) announced that its 3G Ultra HD Over IP series of solutions has been updated to send 4K video-over-IP with a 16 ms latency spec from source to screen. This is important because many AV-over-IP vendors lie and say “zero latency.” Using JPEG 2000 compression and aimed at ballparks, arenas, command centers and corporate AV 4K installations, J+P’s 3G Ultra HD over IP solutions are designed for virtual UHD distribution and matrixing applications across an AV network with at least 1G of bandwidth.
Using standard PoE, J+P solutions consume a maximum of 10 watts per device, decreasing power consumption by 30 percent and eliminating the cost of proprietary PoE injectors. They use standard network protocols (telnet, TCP/IP, UDP and multicast) and are built to work with off-the-shelf gigabit switches. Operating from an isolated, firewall-protected VLAN that has no access to other corporate databases, information, and servers, the device don’t require additional security measures.
All the detailed specs are here. Leave a Comment
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Arista Corporation Debuts RS-122 Universal 1RU Rackmount System With Dual HDBaseT and AV-over-IP Arista Corporation introduces the RS-122 Universal 1RU Rackmount System with Dual HDBaseT, AV-over-IP, and computer options. Designed for applications where computers and extenders can be configured dynamically, the RS-122 can accommodate any two of five available swappable modules:
- the MicroBox-1100A-E01 computer
- the ARD-1006-A07-TX HDBaseT transmitter
- the ARD-1006-A07-RX HDBaseT receiver
- the ARD-1006-A31-TX AV Over IP transmitter
- the ARD-1006-A31-RX AV Over IP receiver
The system enables integrators to determine which combination of transmitters and receivers should be placed in the system’s 1RU, 19-inch rackmount housing — with or without the PC controller module.
Arista’s MicroBox-1100A-E01 computer module features an Intel Atom E3845 1.9GHz quad-core CPU and up to 8GB DDR3 memory. The system is capable of running Microsoft Windows or the Open Source Linux operating system. Accessible ports on the front of the MicroBox-1100A-E01 include a four port USB 3.0 hub, dual Gigabit Ethernet, one RS-232/422/485 BIOS selectable COM port, a CFast slot, and a VGA port. The unit’s rear accessible ports include one HDMI port, one USB 2.0 connector, one RS-232/422/485 BIOS selectable COM port, an audio out jack and a power on/off switch.
The Arista ARD-1006-A07-TX HDBaseT transmitter module features an HDMI Loopback output, a two-port 10/100 Mbps Ethernet pass through hub, IR control, plus Power over HDBaseT. The unit transmits video signals up to 4K/UHD with embedded multi-channel audio and remote power for the receiver. The Arista ARD-1006-A07-RX HDBaseT receiver features a four-port USB 2.0 hub and a two-port 10/100 Mbps Ethernet pass through hub, along with an RS232 port and IR control.
Other module options also available are the Arista ARD-1006-A31-TX a 4K/60 4:4:4 AV Over IP transmitter and the ARD-1006-A31-RX 4K/60 4:4:4 AV Over IP receiver. These units deliver uncompressed, zero-latency signal with broadcast quality scaling for stunning visuals. They are ideal for applications that require high quality, zero latency video extension. These units’ attributes include HDMI 2.0, HDR video, windowing and audio downmixing, audio embedding/de-embedding and more.
The Arista RS-122 Universal 1RU Rackmount System with dual HDBaseT computers and extenders will be priced from $790 to $1,500, depending upon the configuration and here are the details. Leave a Comment
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Extron Ships 18 Gbps HDMI Matrix Switchers for 4K/60 Signals
Extron is shipping the new DXP HD 4K PLUS Series of HDMI matrix switchers that support signals up to 4K/60 with 4:4:4 chroma sampling.They support HDMI 2.0b specifications, including data rates up to 18 Gbps, HDR, Deep Color up to 12-bit, 3D, and HD lossless audio formats. These HDCP 2.2 compliant matrix switchers incorporate Extron technologies such as SpeedSwitch, EDID Minder, and Key Minder as well as HDMI input equalization and output regeneration to ensure reliable system operation. Digital audio can be de-embedded from any input and assigned to digital or analog stereo outputs for ease of integration. Available in 4×4, 8×4, and 8×8 sizes, the DXP HD 4K PLUS Series is designed specifically for matrix switching of 4K/60 HDMI signals.
The DXP HD 4K PLUS Series matrix switchers are designed for use with computers equipped with 4K graphics cards, 4K media players, 4K Blu-ray players and other similar signal sources, as well as 4K native resolution displays. With a maximum data rate of 18 Gbps, they support computer and video resolutions up to 4096×2160 at 60 Hz with 8-bit color in 4:4:4 color space. In addition, these matrix switchers fully support 1080p/60 with 12-bit Deep Color. To maintain signal integrity, they feature automatic cable equalization on inputs and output reclocking to reshape and restore timing of the video signal at each HDMI output. These features combined with Extron Pro Series High Speed HDMI Cables allow longer 4K signal runs, reducing the need for additional signal conditioning equipment by compensating for weak source signals or signal loss on long cable runs. Additionally, +5 VDC, 200 mA is available on each output for powering peripheral devices.
Complete specs of the DXP HD 4K PLUS Series are here. Leave a Comment
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ATEN Eliminates Bulky Docking Stations with Plug and Play USB Mini Dock
ATEN Technology today launched its USB-C Dual-HDMI Mini Dock (UH3233), helping to transform SMB and consumer USB-C devices into dual monitor workstations. The slim and lightweight design of the mini dock makes it an ideal solution for individuals with businesses who want to maximize their workspace while easing their ability to travel.
Supporting dual display mode and using USB-C connections to deliver reliable highspeed data transfers, the UH3233 mini dock can route video from the source device to two HDMI monitors, splitting the video transmission for a dual-view display via a single cable while maintaining a high-quality resolution up to 1080p. Users can connect up to 128 additional peripherals, including Dual HDMI and USB 3.1 Gen1 devices.
Key features:
- Plug and play – no additional drivers or external power adapter required
- USB 3.1 Type-C compliant
- Connects a computer to two HDMI monitors with dual-view output
- Supports 4K (UHD) resolutions via single display output
- Supports dual-display video output up to 1920×1080 simultaneously
- USB 3.1 Gen1 port with data transfer rates up to 5 Gbps
The USB-C Dual-HDMI Mini Dock is available for $110 and here are the tech details. Leave a Comment
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DPI Readies Industry’s First 8K DLP Projector, Ships 4K 3-Chip DLP Projector at 12.5K LumensDigital Projection was at NAB last week with its first-ever 8K DLP projector. The 25,000-lumen INSIGHT LASER 8K (7680×4320) — that’s 33-million pixels and four times the resolution of 4K. The INSIGHT LASER will ship later this year.
In the meantime, DLP’s HIGHlite 4K resolutions (3840×2160) LASER is now 12,500 lumens and a 2000:1 contrast ratio. The 3-chip projector is aimed at home-cinema and entertainment venues, commercial AV and houses of worship. Medical imaging is also supported through the projector’s DICOM simulation mode. Digital Projection’s LASER projectors provide a lowest cost of ownership as a result of the laser illumination system’s 20,000-hour life-span. With no lamps to replace or maintenance costs, the end-user saves money over time and never needs to worry about the possibility of lamp failure. In addition, since they are laser, the projector can be oriented in any position. Other features include HDMI 1.4a, HDMI 2.0 for support of 4K-UHD formats and DisplayPort 1.2 for 4K content delivery.
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Adamson Launches New Point Source Models from IS-Series
Adamson Systems Engineering has officially launched the IS7p and IS10p, a new pair of point source additions to its heralded IS-Series of install-focused loudspeaker products.
The IS7p and IS10p join the IS7 and IS10 two-way, full-range line array cabinets and IS118 and IS119 subwoofers in the IS-Series, which packs Adamson’s sophisticated tour-grade technology into a sleek package with rugged and unobtrusive rigging solutions.
The IS7p is a two-way point source cabinet with two ND7-LM16 7” Kevlar Low-Mid drivers (2x 16 Ω) and one NH3-8 1.4” exit compression driver (8 Ω). The IS10p is a two-way point source cabinet containing two ND10-LM 10” Kevlar Low-Mid drivers (2x 16 Ω) and again one NH3-8 1.4” exit compression driver (8 Ω).
Both loudspeakers feature newly designed waveguides, which have been refined through boundary element analysis (BEM) and incorporate the best aspects of 30 years of Adamson waveguide technology. The rotatable waveguides are available with nominal dispersion patterns of 70° x 40° or 100° x 50°, respectively, and ensure a smooth transition from on- to off-axis positions, delivering natural sound without diffraction or lobing. Depending on the application, their full-range capabilities can negate the need for a subwoofer, and with their high SPL-to-size ratio, the IS7p and IS10p are remarkably efficient solutions.
The choices in dispersion pattern enable the IS7p and IS10p to be used as main systems or to supplement larger setups as fill cabinets in theatres, musicals and houses of worship as well as dance clubs, large meeting rooms and arenas. The comprehensive rigging options mean the new models can be easily deployed for all of these applications, from main house systems to under-balcony and lip fills and beyond.
The cabinets feature marine-grade birch plywood and aircraft-grade aluminum and steel. The models come equipped with Speakon NL4 connectors (IS7p and IS10p) or barrier strips (IS7pb and IS10pb). A plate-and-screw rigging system is placed on four faces of the enclosure, with a multitude of accessories allowing the enclosure to be deployed seamlessly in a variety of applications.
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EPIC System Intercom, Paging and Bells System for K-12
Audio Enhancement just released something called the EPIC System (Education Paging and Intercom Communications) – a customizable intercom, paging and bells solution.
The EPIC System claims to be is the only solution designed from the ground up specifically for K12. The system is easy to use and fully customizable for effective schoolwide communication. EPIC System integrates with Audio Enhancement’s Classroom Audio Systems, providing the same audio. It also supports The SAFE System, allowing for discreet alerts and timely communication, improving the safety of students and teachers. When incorporating XD Technology, incident location can now be determined from any school location including hallways, cafeterias, gymnasiums and even outside.
EPIC System comes with a touchscreen display, simplifying the process of setting up bell schedules and zones, sending pages and making intercom calls. When a schedule needs to be adjusted for weather, assemblies or late-start, administrators can make the necessary changes without hiring a technician. With customizable paging and bell zones, office staff can choose the exact area with which they need to communicate, whether it be a single classroom, a hallway, or the entire school. Common areas like the cafeteria or gymnasium can also be reached without sending a runner, and the clear, rich audio ensures that the intended audience will understand what is being said.
EPIC System is nonproprietary and uses standards-based architecture with easy connection to any Audio Enhancement-networked equipment. It can integrate with the school’s existing LDAP/Active Directory Servers and utilizes standardized SIP protocols to connect to existing Voice over IP (VoIP) phone systems.
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Almo ProAV Launches New Sound Options Audio Sourcing & Engineering Group Almo ProAV today launched Sound Options, a dedicated audio sourcing and technical engineering group. From mics, speakers, DSPs, mixers and specialty applications, Sound Options offers favorite brands while providing the audio-specific sales, technical and engineering expertise needed to complete a successful AV installation. Sound Options is making its debut at the Almo E4 AV Tour in Dallas on April 24.
“We understand that audio is a very personal choice for integrators and that most have a preferred brand, which is why Sound Options stocks and sources the industry’s favorite pro audio lines,” said Sam Taylor, executive vice president and COO for Almo Professional A/V. “Sound Options is the experienced and trusted resource for everything pro audio. With more than 70 combined years of real-world audio expertise, this group is dedicated to helping incorporate an audio system that works flawlessly as part of a complete AV installation for everything from a collaboration room to a mega church. Streamlining through Almo rather than setting up a new account with every supplier ultimately saves time and money with the added benefit of superior service and technical support.”
“Our customers know us for purchasing display products but the most important part of the install is the sound – if the audio is not operational, the whole installation is in trouble,” explained Rob Ziv, director of business development for Almo ProAV. He said that with 20-plus featured brands and access to dozens more, “if an Almo partner doesn’t see their favorite brand listed, all they have to do is ask and we can source it for them. In fact, sourcing those obscure, uncommon products is a service we offer. In addition, we can answer technical questions in-house and we have a direct line to all the audio manufacturers.”
Sound Options audio categories include amplifiers; assistive listening; conferencing; control; DSP; recording, playback and streaming; microphones; mixers; speakers; simultaneous interpretation; and unified collaboration.
Some of the featured brands available through Sound Options include Revolution Acoustics, Tascam, BSS, Kramer, AMX, Atlas, Phoenix, Taiden, DBX, JBL, Crown, Ashly Audio, Beyerdynamic, Biamp and more. Here is the portal. Leave a Comment
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MuxLab Releases New HDMI 4×1 Switcher with Audio Extraction MuxLab just debuted a new 4×1 HDMI switcher (dubbed the Model 500437) with audio extraction and 4K/60 (4:4:4) and support for 12-bit Deep Color and 3D viewing.
In addition, the switcher extracts digital audio from each source, and outputs it as S/PDIF Toslink or two-channel audio. Specifically, it extracts LPCM 2.0 or 5.1, Dolby 5.1 and DTS 5.1 audio and delivers it as digital S/PDIF Toslink. LPCM 2.0 audio can be extracted and delivered as analog two-channel audio using standard RCA jacks. The Switcher also supports HDMI pass-through of all digital audio modes including LPCM 7.1, Dolby TrueHD, Dolby Digital Plus, Dolby Atmos, DTS-HD Master Audio and DTS:X. Users have the option of selecting between four HDMI inputs, and three audio modes of pass-through, 2.0 and 5.1 audio using the switcher’s front panel buttons or the IR remote control.
The switcher’s Audio Return Channel (ARC) sends selected audio back to the source. Additional audio equipment can then be connected to amplify surround sound and higher-level audio in the viewing environment. The rugged enclosure provides all connectors on the rear panel for a tidy installation.
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Epiphan Video launches Pearl Mini All-in-One Live Production Streaming DeviceEpiphan Video announced the official launch of their new portable all-in-one live production system, Pearl Mini. Pearl Mini is a hardware solution that contains everything users need to capture, encode, stream and record professional-quality live video. The system offers two HDMI inputs and one SDI input, allowing users to mix multiple sources into custom layouts and encode two separate programs simultaneously in resolutions up to 1080p, via H.264. Users can operate Pearl Mini using the device’s user-friendly touch screen, web-based Admin panel or Epiphan Live mobile tablet interface.
Designed to enable professional live video across a variety of markets and industries, Pearl Mini is designed for corporate and marketing communications, live event production, lecture capture in higher education and others. We here at rAVe use the Pearl for all our streaming events!
In the live event industry, operators can use Pearl Mini to stream live switched programs to multiple destinations while simultaneously recording for post-production. Within educational institutions, lecturers and AV technicians can use Pearl Mini to easily capture, record and stream lectures, conduct one-on-one remote tutorials and create a library of video on demand in their LMS/CMS.
In corporate settings, users can live stream meetings, presentations and training to increase stakeholder engagement, enhance communication strategies and boost corporate brand. While marketing teams can use Pearl Mini to create dynamic live streams that increase brand awareness, generate audience engagement and help tell their brand’s story.
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Crestron to Ship AirBoard Whiteboarding SolutionCrestron will soon be shipping the Crestron AirBoard PoE electronic whiteboard technology. Crestron AirBoard enables viewing of electronic whiteboard content on any display device, thereby solving the problem of meeting participants — remote participants, especially — not being able to see the whiteboard unless they’re seated with a direct line of sight.
Crestron AirBoard is essentially a camera on an arm that attaches to any electronic whiteboard via the included mounting kit. With PoE, only a single Ethernet cable to the LAN is required for video, communication and power.
With Crestron AirBoard, annotations can be saved and then posted, emailed, or texted to either a central web page (education applications) or to invited participants (corporate applications). Meeting participants simply choose “whiteboard” as a source on the in-room Crestron TSW or Crestron Mercury touch screen to start the session. When “end meeting” is selected, the user is prompted to save and send the file.
Remote conferencing participants can access the whiteboard session much like they would connect to Crestron AirMedia, by entering the URL (or friendly name) shown on the room display in their web browser. Once on the web page, the user simply enters the dynamic PIN or access code, which is also shown on the room display.
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i3-Technologies joins Zoom Video Communications Technology Ecosystem Program
i3-Technologies has teamed up with Zoom as a member of the Zoom Rooms Technology Ecosystem Program. The software-based video communications platform from Zoom and the interactive touch displays from i3-Technologies allow organizations to bring visual collaboration to any size room.
Remote collaboration is a growing reality for businesses. The simple yet powerful interface from Zoom, paired with the plug and play touchscreens from i3, enables users to organize collaborative sessions with remote team members in just one click. Features like HD video, wireless content sharing and mobile join turn meetings into a rich and engaging experience for all.
Here is where your an learn more about i3. Leave a Comment
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ErgoMounts Adds Floor-Standing Digital Signage Mount ErgoMounts expanded their Infinity Video Wall Series with a new free standing floor base version. The Infinity TV Floor Stand can support both VESA and Non-VESA compliant screens with interfaces up to 600×400 millimeters and weighing up to 70 kilograms. Manufactured out of light-weight aluminium components, ErgoMounts claims this stand can be assembled in a matter of minutes.
A heavy duty steel base eliminates the need to bolt to the floor and adjustable leveling feet are included to support the stand over uneven surfaces and integrated cable management allows you to hide all cabling.
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Draper Launches Ambient Light Rejecting Surface for Ultra-Short Throw
Draper has announced TecVision XH800X UST ALR and CS1000X ALR, the latest additions to their TecVision line of ISF-certified, 8K-ready viewing surfaces. The TecVision XH800X UST ALR will debut at InfoComm 2018. TecVision XH800X UST ALR is a premium ambient light rejecting surface formulated for use with Ultra-Short Throw (UST) and short throw projectors in moderate to high ambient light applications for improved contrast and color saturation. This surface can reject 57 percent of off axis ambient light while still being able to support extremely wide viewing angles. Available in NanoPerf up to 102” image height, the TecVision XH800X UST ALR works with lens throw distance ratio of 0.25:1 or longer for best brightness uniformity.
In addition, the TecVision CS1000X ALR includes Draper’s TecVision with 82 percent ambient light rejection, making it designed for spaces where there’s high ambient light with no way to control it. The TecVision CS1000X ALR’s half gain angle is 20 degrees and should be viewed within 30 to 35 degrees off-axis. A lens/throw distance ratio of 1.6:1 or longer is recommended.
TecVision is available in sizes as large at 23 feet by 67 feet wide. Boasting what Draper says is better off-axis performance than similar products, TecVision surfaces offer minimal variance in gain spec and optimal uniformity for better ambient light performance qualities. All TecVision surfaces are engineered for high contrast, precise resolution, color accuracy and the broadest possible view cone while providing superior quality, consistency and uniformity.
All the details will be posted here. Leave a Comment
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Primacoustic Ships Hercules Impact-Resistant Acoustic Panels
Primacoustic Hercules panels are absorption panels that are designed to withstand the abuse of environments such as gymnasiums, offices, classrooms, and other public occupancy spaces. While most acoustic panels are delicate and susceptible to damage, Hercules will help to reduce reverberation while looking like new after repeated impact.
Hercules Impact-resistant panels are manufactured from the same high-density (6pcf/96kg/m3) glass wool core as Primacoustic Broadway, but the face of the panel is covered with a rigid fiberglass layer. This facing allows the panel to effectively absorb most frequencies, but the protection will prevent damage occurring from accidental contact. Whether someone bumps into the panel, or a basketball bounces off it in a gymnasium, the Hercules panel will remain looking fresh and intact. This durable facing even allows for the use of thumbtacks in the panel, making it ideal for office spaces or schools.
Hercules panels measure 24″x48″x2″ (60x120x5 centimeters) with square edges and are available in beige or grey acoustically transparent fabric. They list for $699.99 for a box of six.
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Tributaries Improves Slim HDMI Cables By Making Them Slightly Thicker Tributaries just announced a major upgrade to the UHDS Slim line of HDMI cables. All UHDS cables are now certified 18Gbps by DPL Labs and the Imaging Science Foundation (ISF) — 18Gbps certification ensures 4K compatibility, enabling High Dynamic Range (HDR) and Deep Color.
By increasing the wire gauge slightly from stranded 36AWG to solid 32 AWG, Tributaries UHDS are all now able to support 18Gbps passively from ½ meter through 2 meters while maintaining a slim flexible design. Why is passive such a big deal? In addition to incompatibility issues with other electronics, active cables are directional and will not work if reversed. The active end of the cable must be connected to the display and requires power to supply the on-board electronics; typically, these cables harvest their power from unused TMDS voltages. This method works well as long as the source which drives the 5V line has an adequate output. If the source voltage is too low, it will draw down the vital 5-volt line.
Passive cables are bi-directional and voltage agnostic, making any installation simpler and more stable. Increasing the wire gauge resulted in a minor cable O.D. increase of less than 1mm maintaining the cable’s slim profile. Ideal for rack systems where multiple cables are bundled and dressed and installations where flexibility and a minimum bend radius is required the UHDS fulfills the promise of ease of installation.
The new improved UHDS Slim are available now in 1/2 meter, 1 meter, 1.5 meter and 2 meter, which replace the original models. The 3-meter and 4-meter lengths have been discontinued. More information is here. Leave a Comment
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For all you REGULAR readers of rAVe ProAV Edition out there, hopefully you enjoyed another opinion-packed issue!
For those of you NEW to rAVe, you just read how we are — we are 100 percent opinionated. We not only report the news and new product stories of the ProAV industry, but we stuff the articles full of our opinions. That may include (but is not limited to) whether or not the product is even worth looking at, challenging the manufacturers on their specifications, calling a marketing-spec bluff and suggesting ways integrators market their products better. But, one thing is for sure, we are NOT a trade publication that gets paid for running editorial or product stories. Traditional trade publications get paid to run product stories — that’s why you see what you see in most of the pubs out there. We are different: We run what we want to run and NO ONE is going to pay us to write anything good (or bad).
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Everything we publish is opt-in — we spam NO ONE! rAVe ProAV Edition is our flagship publication with what we believe is a reach of virtually everyone in the ProAV market. rAVe HomeAV Edition is co-published with CEDIA, covering the HomeAV market. We added rAVe Rental [and Staging] in November 2007, rAVe ED [Education] in May 2008 and then rAVe DS [Digital Signage] in January 2009. We added rAVe GHGav [Green, Healthcare & Government AV] in August 2010 and rAVe HOW [House of Worship] in July 2012. You can subscribe to any of those publication or see ALL our archives by going to: https://www.ravepubs.com
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