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Volume 5, Issue 6 — June 5, 2012
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Modern Classroom: The Digital Tapestry
By Ken Royal
rAVe Columnist The fabric of the modern day classroom should create a tapestry. This month’s column is confirmation of the right path for companies already weaving classroom tapestries, as well as those companies worried, because they feel their single thread won’t be seen as valuable in the current edtech larger picture — and its iPad frenzy. The key is that you cannot create the best tapestry without the individual threads. All companies need to embrace the full canvas on this digital classroom issue, because there’s room for all — if you understand this classroom tapestry concept.
Today, it’s easy to see the single threads; all you have to do is pick up any local newspaper. Typically, there’s a picture of a young person with an iPad showing school administrators the new App that he/she has created for his iPad program. In most cases, those administrators may only have limited knowledge of that handheld. What they do know is that for all they’ve heard and been told, this is the quickest way to create a digital classroom. Beyond that, it keeps a district in stride with other local schools and districts that may or may not know exactly what they need either. I’m certainly an advocate of getting digital devices into the hands of students, but as an educator you need to look at the complete 360-degree classroom view. An iPad in hand does not a complete classroom make.
In covering education technology at all levels, I’ve met with heads of companies who get this, and have been promoting the classroom as a tapestry for a long time. I’ve also discovered that if you can talk to the heads of companies — you hear the passion. Crestron and Extron are examples of companies that have made it a lot easier to tie all the classroom tech, video, and audio threads together. Many tech plans, and best-in-tech how-tos, include specific references to those companies for that very reason — as part and partners in a solution
Promethean is best known, internationally, for interactive education. Its whiteboards, called ActivBoards, as well as all its digital ActivHardware and ActivSoftware, including response systems — ActivVote and ActivExpression — have transformed teaching and classrooms, at all levels, on most continents. It was one of the first companies to actually understand the importance of creating a place for educators online with its Promethean Planet, a sort of personal and collaborative learning network. I know this last part, because I actually was privileged to hear that idea from Promethean executives — years ago — before its launch. At that time, they asked me what I thought about a place for educators. I think my answer was something like, “I’ve been saying that for years… glad you’re thinking about doing it.”
I may have also said something like it was great to hear something that wasn’t just hardware or software, but really was about teaching and educators. Interestingly, after the Promethean Planet launch, many other companies thought it a good idea, too. Some did it well, and some are still trying. It’s still a great idea. It really is a leap into interactive online self-publishing by users and for users. It certainly beats stale PDFs or product pricing hypes without user specifics.
When I heard that Jim Marshall was moving to Promethean as president, I immediately thought it was not only a great idea, but also a brilliant one for Promethean. I’ve known Jim for some time, and he is widely known and appreciated in the education marketplace. Some of my good friends in the market are his friends. You may know him from past leadership roles at SpectrumK12/Harland Clarke, but you may not know that Jim is one of those who had a chance to attend what I like to refer to as Steve Jobs University. Jim was at the Apple leadership table, as vice president of the education division when the digital world first shifted gears, streamlining clunky devices — and giving us the individualized tech we hand hold today. If you check around, you’d be amazed at how many education-marketplace leaders were influenced by Steve Jobs. Not only did they work at Apple, but many of them also used lessons they learned from Jobs to build their own philosophy for paradigm shifting.
I was supposed to talk with Jim Marshall about the release of the ActivTable. I began telling him about how I learned about Microsoft’s table version long before it was released, and at that time, as an old chalk pusher, I appreciated the collaborative use of a digital table with tracking ability for center use. This table idea isn’t a new thing, for sure, so I was prepared to play devil’s advocate. How would it fit into today’s classroom, where many educators are looking at iPad devices and individualized digital instruction?
Jim had read my reversing the presentation ideas, so I wasn’t sure how he would take my blunt approach to this topic, when I asked, “What’s new or different about this ActivTable? If I’m an administrator, what’s in it for my staff? What approach should I take, especially in tough economic times, where the whole education world is going handheld happy? What’s the fit?” Jim was a guy, who had set out to “crush the digital divide” with Apple, by leading the charge early on to put a digital device in every student’s hand, and later, followed that up with Spectrum, an IEP (Individualize Education Program) company, and turned that into personalized learning and intervention for any child. Jim was quiet for a moment. Had I gone too far?
Jim began, “At Promethean, we’re trying to be a catalyst to provide a teacher-centric, learner-centric fabric in the classroom. The iPads, which are essentially one-to-one devices, are rejuvenating interest, along with digital texts; authoring, and disruptive budgets have created a perfect storm for digital change, beyond those original, few, 1:1 leadership districts. As we raise the tech in the back of the classroom, what kid with an iPad and the Web at his/her finger tips is going to want to look at a squeaky dry-erase board?” Wait a second; the President of Promethean gets it! And did I hear him say, “fabric?”
Marshall continued, “Teachers are always going to make their points, teach the curriculum, do what needs to be done, but now, with the whiteboards, the tech level goes up in the front of the class, and when we add these small group instructional devices –tables — we weave all the modalities or pieces together into a single fabric in the classroom — a teaching and learning-technology-centered fabric. That’s taking it up a level from individual devices — whiteboards, tables, and 1:1. That optimal fabric might be a couple of tables for group instruction, a large computer board/whiteboard at the front, which is just a portal to the digital world, when teachers want to take the class on a single-focused journey. From there, the class might break up into small groups and then individuals — there’d be a flow. Software is our backbone to link all the devices. We think there needs to be a whole class instructional device, an individual instructional device in every child’s hand, as well as a collaborative, kid to kid device — digital table.”
I’m thinking this concept is something every company leader should be hearing, saying and promoting. There is space for all devices, software, audio, video and classroom management solutions in this classroom tapestry, which most educators will agree, has all the components necessary for full-bodied lessons, and enhancing individual student digital learning.
I sometimes tongue-in-cheek my own tech observations, but I really get what Jim was saying. One device alone does not cover all the educational-learning real estate. That would be like carrying a golf bag with one club in it. The biggest drawback may be the difficulty districts have in finding the funds to cover all those tech bases. What usually happens is an either/or approach. Maybe one tech-teaching device can be purchased, but asking for more, or even all, isn’t likely to happen. Daily, I’m reminded that the majority of educators don’t have the tech tools necessary for this digital learning tapestry — nor do their students — yet, and that the ones who do, don’t have all the skills to create this technological concert — yet.
I shared my thoughts with Jim about teachers without tech, and he understood it as a problem he faces daily as well. We both agreed, though, that the conversation, the publication of new ideas and the classroom as a complete learning and tech-woven environment are the goals. Four teachers that maybe have one document camera, projector or whiteboard shared between them is a problem still needing a solution — no matter the economic times. What may be the biggest concern, though, is that those four educators may think what they have is great, because they don’t know what else is possible. Now, that’s where I believe the marketplace can be helpful — in sharing the possibilities. Administrators and educators will ask for what they need but they need to know what’s in it for them — and their students. Call that marketplace lessons, or simply a field trip to what’s classroom-possible. If not, educators may continue to be satisfied with sharing one device beyond its tech obsolescence.
I know that this may get easier with the new Common Core, where students need to back up ideas, thoughts, hypotheses and answers using technology. Districts will have to get onboard, and it won’t be just words this time — there will be pressure. Sad to use that word, but it’s true. Pressure to join the 21st Century — where teachers teach with tech, and guide kids, who control their own learning with tech — and together, they all collaborate, create, manipulate and transform is necessary. So, how can individuals and companies get involved?
Jim Marshall’s plans, with Promethean, include enlisting university and community college students to help share new learning ideas within their communities. This giving back to the community idea isn’t new, but hasn’t been taken to its fullest potential yet. It seems Jim and his education and marketplace colleagues are headed in that direction. This sort of community involvement spreads the word, revitalizes education at the grassroots level, and gives young people a challenging purpose for creating positive and change. That fresh energy tapped is essential — and young people are passionate. It also can promote a company as leader. I know there will be plenty of stories there, and companies that get involved in community will get rewards beyond their expectations — or press release.
This isn’t about one device in a classroom. The right thing for the times — for education — and for students is weaving all the human, digital, wiring, audio, video, infrastructural and structural components into a seamless tapestry — to create the digital learning classroom.
Find out more about the Promethean ActivTable here: http://www.prometheanworld.com/en-us/education/products/interactive-displays/activtable
ActivTable Quick Specs:
- 46” Full HD LCD display
- Individual tool library including keyboards, maths tools, web browsers, etc.
- Easy table access for chairs and wheelchairs
- Embedded sound system for multi-media lesson and voice recording
- Connectivity: 4 x USB-A ports, 1 x 3.5-mm mic in socket, 4 x 3.5-mm stereo headphone sockets, DVI, 1 x Ethernet port and Wi-Fi
Ken Royal is a teacher/education and education technology blogger/reporter, video interviewer, podcaster, education event news commentator with 34 years of classroom/school and instructional technology experience. His teaching accomplishments include being four-time district teacher of the year, Connecticut Middle School Teacher of the Year and Bill and Melinda Gates award for Technology School of Excellence. Reach Ken at ken@ravepubs.com or on Twitter at http://www.twitter.com/kenroyal ;
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InfoComm: Future-Proofing Classroom AV
By Mark Mayfield
Special to InfoComm International This column was reprinted with permission from InfoComm International and originally appeared here.
The roots of the AV industry are firmly planted in the K-12 education market, dating back to the formation of the National Association of Visual Education Dealers (NAVED) in 1939. Back then, classroom AV technology consisted of film strip projectors, screens and eventually basic audio equipment and overhead projectors. Of all the vertical markets in which AV pros do business, education is, and has always been, among the most consistent and highest revenue producers.
But as anyone in the industry knows, K-12 schools have been facing major budget constraints. At the same time, they’re tasked with finding new ways to engage students — AV technology would be one of those ways. So although it’s generally recognized that technology is critical in today’s teaching environment, for most schools, making the right investment choices requires addressing two interrelated challenges: planning and funding.
Changing Technology
Keeping informed about the most recent developments in school technology is key to developing a solid plan. What makes this so challenging is the rapid pace of advances in technology. No one wants to commit precious resources to equipment that will be outdated by the time it’s delivered and put to use. This dilemma is not unique to schools, of course; all enterprises — and consumers — struggle with the issue. But K-12 schools struggle perhaps more than others because of their dependence on public funding and the political uncertainties that implies. Schools can’t count on a consistent flow of funds to update aging technologies. A plan that includes replacement lifecycle analysis is more likely to be funded.
It’s important to recognize that not all AV technologies advance at the same rate. In fact, some AV technologies can be described as “mature,” and even commoditized. For example, if a school has recently installed a sound system, it’s not likely that the loudspeakers will require replacement for many years. But continuous improvements in digital signal processing technology allows increasingly higher levels of flexibility in the use of that loudspeaker system.
Over the last decade, projection and flat-panel display technologies have neared their mature stage, too, with lower prices and higher performance. Since the early days of AV in schools, the most cost-effective presentation system was a projector and a screen. Today, that’s changing, as flat-panel display prices have dropped, sizes have increased, and performance has dramatically improved.
“We see a migration toward large-format LCD displays, and away from traditional projectors with screens and interactive whiteboards,” says Julie Solomon, manager of marketing and business development at CCS Presentation Systems. Although interactive whiteboards are the hot technology in K-12 today (analyst firm Wainhouse Research says more than 80 percent of schools use them), that may not always be the case. “Eventually, everything will move toward touch interactive displays,” Solomon believes.
Pedagogy as the Driver
Focusing on specific technologies or products may be the wrong approach to future-proofing K-12 school technology. According to Michael D. Leiboff, principal consultant with the Sextant Group, “Faculty and administrators who take the time to examine how their teaching pedagogy should drive technology implementation are in a much better position to succeed.” So while technology is always evolving, it’s not the technology that should drive investment.
“This evolution is not driven by advances in the products that are available, so much as how teachers imagine new ways to use them creatively and effectively,” says Leiboff. “The goal, in planning classroom technology implementation is not merely to purchase best of breed video projectors, SMART Boards or computer tablets, but to imagine how these devices could be used in different ways. And new equipment that will be purchased over time needs to be interoperable with existing equipment.”
Interoperability is an important concern, says Jim Tierney, CEO of Tierney Brothers. “As schools evaluate each piece of new technology they must question how it will work with and enhance current technology while meeting their goal to improve teaching effectiveness and raise achievement,” says Tierney. It’s rare that entire AV systems can be — or should be — replaced on a regular basis.
Leiboff says that the real trick is to infuse flexibility into the infrastructure.
“Equipment, by and large, does not provide much real flexibility. And, over time, at least some of the equipment will need to be replaced,” he says. “Infrastructure, for the most part is cheap. And, it has the added bonus of being funded as part of the building's overall construction budget, not the technology equipment budget.”
With flexible infrastructure — one that does not itself limit the types of signals and endpoints that can be tied in — new technologies can be more easily added as funds become available.
Andrew J. Milne, CEO of Tidebreak, a Silicon Valley-based provider of group interaction technologies, also believes in the value of flexibility.
“Flexible learning spaces that easily accommodate emerging and future technologies help schools ‘future-proof’ against retrofitting costs without overspending on equipment that will become obsolete, and without sacrificing future performance in order to constrain costs,” says Milne. “Intelligently-designed infrastructure that both anticipates future directions and allows for unanticipated opportunities positions schools for cost-effective evolution of their facilities.”
Milne believes that hardware-centric AV system infrastructures impose constraints for future improvements or upgrades. He says that a software-based system infrastructure offers more options.
“For years, schools have equipped classrooms with AV technologies that primarily facilitate in-class presentations. These rooms use proprietary hardware infrastructures and technologies that require custom design and highly specialized integration skills. The problem is that making changes or upgrades can be costly and time consuming,” Milne says. “A software-enabled infrastructure on the other hand, makes it possible to consider a wider range of learning space arrangements that can embrace different instructional approaches and emerging technologies.”
A clear trend in pedagogical style is the shift from the “sage at the stage” — one-way delivery of information — to more collaborative methods such as the “flipped classroom,” where lectures are homework and collaborative problem solving is class time. While the debate continues to rage over this approach, one thing is indisputable: Today’s generation of learners value the role that technology plays in sharing ideas and information, even outside of school. Research firm Grunwold Associates found in a 2007 study that 96 percent of online teens used social media. That number is likely closer to 100 percent today. Learning technologies that capitalize on this fact — and other tech trends that kids have already adopted — will be wise technology investments for the future.
Tech Trends that Empower Schools
The explosion of mobile devices should also being acknowledged in the classroom. Some schools are actually condoning “Bring Your Own Technology” (BYOT) policies to embrace smartphones and tablets. Advocates argue that because young people are already glued to them, schools should come up with educational uses for them. And at a time when state budget cuts are accelerating, it makes sense for educators to explore BYOT as a way to do more with less. But bringing mobile devices into the classroom is not without its own complications.
“Schools need to invest in a good wireless infrastructure and the necessary bandwidth to support simultaneous use of multiple mobile devices,” adds Solomon. “Many schools are looking at large rollouts of mobile devices, yet don’t have a solid plan for how they are going to support everyone hitting the system at once.”
Other technology trends outside of education are beginning to make sense in the school environment. Cloud computing is one example that has the potential to significantly reduce IT investments in hardware (such as servers, desktop and laptop systems, and storage hardware) and software (operating systems and applications), because these resources can be located centrally in the cloud, where they’re shared among users who can access them from anywhere using any device with Internet access.
Because the cloud moves applications out of their traditional home on the desktop or laptop, low-cost computers like netbooks and thin clients can be used to access applications and content. The main requirement becomes access to the Internet and to networked applications. But the more important advantages that a cloud infrastructure offers are scalability and freedom from being locked into a hardware investment.
Tierney sees the general move toward digital technologies as a catalyst to the adoption of many other types of teaching scenarios.
“In the classroom of the future, all curricula will be digital, so new technologies will be designed around creating, consuming or managing digital curricula,” says Tierney. “The shift to BYOT will speed up the adoption of robust wireless networks within schools to support all the devices. The enhanced wireless infrastructure will, in turn, open the door to technologies that will change how and where digital curriculum is consumed.
“Assessment of students will become interactive, such as through recording of video and audio instead of traditional answers like ‘true’ and ‘false,’” Tierney continues. “Online visual learning will become real time, with students able to learn and work from anywhere through desktop video conferencing technology. All digital resources will be accessible from home for use by administrators, teachers and students through managed home access technology. And finally, all technology devices will be monitored and controlled remotely via single interface remote maintenance software.”
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Share Article Back to Top Dukane Intros Tilting Drawer iPad Cart Today Dukane launched the MCC40 tablet charging cart with a patented tilting drawer design that makes the loading and unloading of iPads very quick. It's a full metal, lockable rolling cart that's designed to allow for storage and portability of tablets. It's aimed at schools or corporate education where the iPad is the primary student interface and it lists for $2,295.
Here are all the specs: http://www.dukane.com/av/JL/TiltingDrawerCart.pdf
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Extron Announces New DisplayPort Switcher and Distribution Amplifier Extron today launched the SW2 DP two-input DisplayPort switcher, as well as the DP DA2 two-output DisplayPort distribution amplifier. They are HDCP compliant and support data rates up to 10.8 Gbps and computer resolutions up to 2560×1600 at 60 Hz, including HDTV 1080p/60. The SW2 DP and DP DA2 feature EDID Minder, which maintains continuous EDID communication between connected devices for reliable video content display. The DP DA2 also features Key Minder, an Extron-exclusive technology that continuously authenticates HDCP encryption between all devices, ensuring the simultaneous distribution of source content to both displays. Additionally, dual-mode support on the DP DA2 allows source signals to be distributed to multiple HDMI, DVI, or VGA display devices with appropriate adapters.
The addition of the SW2 DP and DP DA2 to Extron's expanding line of DisplayPort products allows the integration of this technology into a wide variety of AV applications, including conference areas, houses of worship, and rental and staging environments. The SW2 DP and DP DA2 are ideal for AV systems that require reliable switching and distribution of DisplayPort signals.
Here are all the details: http://www.extron.com/product/product.aspx?id=sw2dp&s=0
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Share Article Back to Top Ricoh Intros First Upright Ultra-Short-Throw Projector Ricoh just unveiled the first upright ultra-short-throw projector, capable of displaying a 48” diagonal HD image when placed less than 5” from a wall or screen.
Weighing only 6.6 pounds, spec'd at 2500 ANSI lumens, the PJ WX4130/PJ WX4130N is designed for conference rooms, offices, small-to-midsize meeting spaces and classrooms. Unlike ceiling-mounted short-throw projectors, which are fixed in place, the portable PJ WX4130/PJ WX4130N can be placed on a tabletop or stand and project upwards. Its vertical orientation means the projector depth and wall gap together occupy less than one foot of space along the wall, preserving table space that traditional projectors would fill. Backing the projector up to 9.6” from a wall delivers an 80” HD WXGA 1280×800 picture.
Achieved using Ricoh's Free-Form Mirror and Deflection Technology, these projectors use a concave mirror to spread the image reflection, which allows for a wide viewing angle while keeping the optical system small.
The Ricoh PJ WX4130 lists for $1,650, while the PJ WX4130N (which is also networkable) lists for $1,900. More info is here: http://www.ricoh-usa.com/news/news_release.aspx?prid=813&alnv=pr
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Share Article Back to Top A 16-Port USB Charger Charging large numbers of iPads, iPhones and iPods is a challenge for many schools, but a new 16-port pro-grade (though ugly) USB charging station now makes this possible.
Dubbed the Power Pad 16 (DS-IP-PP16), it provides enough power to charge 16 iPads at one time. iPads take more USB power than any other consumer USB-powered device.
Created by Datamation Systems, a security carts and cabinet company, it's designed to be used in school common areas where lots of students need power simultaneously (like classrooms or even lunchrooms). It can also be integrated into a mobile cart to charge everything while in storage.
Here are the details: http://www.ipadcarts.com/solutions/DS-IP-PP16.htm
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Premier Mounts Debuts New Mobile Mega Mount Cart for Large Displays Premier Mounts announced yesterday a new addition to its mobile cart product line, the PMC-MM-085. Using the MVWC-2X2 mobile cart as the base with a newly designed mounting head capable of 360 degrees of rotation, this cart can bring mobility for an extra large single screen display, specifically from 80" up to 103" and larger or up to 500 lbs.
Heavy-duty casters with a reinforced design accommodate the 500-lb. weight capacity and assure stability, according to Premier, even on uneven surfaces, including trade show and other event settings. Likewise, the heavy-duty casters provide swift maneuvering and precise placement in any desired location. The PMC-MM-085 provides 360 degrees of rotation, allowing displays to be viewed in either landscape or portrait orientation, as well as any other arbitrarily angled view. The mount also features both a positive and negative tilt adjustment for accommodating preferred viewing angles and to account for involuntary display tilt due to equipment weight.
Premier says the cart can be ready and assembled in 30 minutes or less. It also has a solid bottom skirt ad tray to store and protect other equipment. List price is $3,995.
For more information, click here: http://www.mounts.com/product?product=PMC-MM-085
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Share Article Back to Top Chief Now Shipping New Interactive Solution for Ceiling-Mounted Projectors Chief announced yesterday that its new interactive ceiling-mounted projector solution is now shipping. The CMSI interactive accessory, the latest solution in Chief's interactive product line, converts an existing ceiling-mounted projector’s image into an interactive display.
With a built-in sensor, the accessory mounts on the wall above an existing dry erase board and immediately transforms a ceiling-mounted projector into an interactive platform, powered by eBeam technology from Luidia (the same technology used in Chief's interactive ultra short throw mounts, which were launched last year). These mounts allow the end user to update a projector or whiteboard any time in the future without having to pay for interactive functionality again.
For more information on the new CMSI interactive accessory, click here: http://www.chiefmfg.com/Products/CMSI
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Share Article Back to Top SoundCraft Debuts New ED product Line Sound-Craft’s new ML Series of lecterns and rack enclosures, constructed of pre-laminated low-pressure laminate on MDF core, feature dadoed joinery that the company claims adds strength and stability. They are offered in three wood-grained finishes — Fusion Maple, Wild Apple and Serene Cherry, as well as a neutral solid, Graphite Nebula. Each one includes locking Euro-hinged doors, a document camera drawer and front access panel as well as a keyboard tray, cable ports and casters. Available in two sizes, the ML1B is a compact single bay unit with a 10RU capacity that measures less than 32” wide, while the MLB2 two bay model is only 42.25” wide, making them work for applications when space is at a premium. Factory-installed options and custom cutouts can be specified to meet individual needs.
For traditional lectern applications, two models are offered, the ML27 and the ML36, in 27” and 36” widths, respectively. Both feature a fixed storage shelf for easy access to presentation materials and four casters for mobility. Locking doors, a built-in sound system and task lighting are just a few of the many options that may be included. Mobile storage is addressed with the new RE16 rack enclosure, available with choice of 16RU rack rails or adjustable shelving and include a locking door, removable front access panel, and casters. Custom sizes and various options are also available.
Full specs are here: http://www.sound-craft.com/catalog_index.asp
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Atlantic Technology Ships TLC Ceiling Speakers The new Atlantic Technology in-ceiling TLC-8.2/6.2 (two-way ceiling-mount speakers with a 1" soft dome tweeter), TLC-8.3/6.3 (two-way ceiling-mount speakers with two 1" soft dome tweeter) and the ICTS-6 HT (uses a heavy-duty 6 ½-inch woofer that is angled 15 degrees towards the listening area) are all shipping. TLC, which stands for "Trim Look Ceiling" are in-ceiling speakers that do not use a wide plastic bezel and are designed to disappear when mounted by using a low-profile magnetic grille that hides the bezel.
Here are all the specs: http://atlantictechnology.com/default.asp?NodeId=165
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Share Article Back to Top Extron Ships 1×2 HDMI Distribution Amp Extron has started shipping its new HDMI DA2, a one-input, two-output HDMI distribution amplifier. The HDMI DA2 supports HDMI specification features including data rates up to 6.75 Gbps, Deep Color up to 12-bit, 3D, Lip Sync and HD lossless audio formats. The HDCP-compliant distribution amplifier supports all HDTV rates including 1080p/60 and PC resolutions up to 1920×1200. Extron says it features two exclusive technologies: EDID Minder, which maintains continuous EDID communication between connected devices and Key Minder, which continuously authenticates HDCP encryption between all devices, ensuring the simultaneous distribution of source content to both displays.
The HDMI DA2 features include automatic input cable equalization, automatic color bit depth management, selectable output muting and indicators for monitoring and troubleshooting. Input cable equalization restores and reshapes incoming HDMI signals, reducing the need for additional signal conditioning equipment by compensating for weak source signals or signal loss from a long input cable. The HDMI DA2 automatically adjusts color bit depth based on the display EDID, preventing color compatibility conflicts between source and display. Outputs can be muted independently via RS-232, allowing content to be previewed on a local monitor. Additionally, the distribution amplifier provides immediate visual confirmation of EDID status, HDCP authentication, and signal presence confirmation for each port via front panel LED indicators.
More specs are here: http://www.extron.com/product/product.aspx?id=hdmida2
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Biamp Ships AVB-Based Networked AV System Tesira Biamp Systems has just started shipping Tesira, its digital signal processor (DSP)-based networked media system, which uses AVB as the primary digital media transport.
In case you didn't know, AVB is the new IEEE open standard that allows media streams to be carried over Ethernet networks — it's what Audinate uses for Dante and Harman uses for HiQnet.
Tesira is a modular system and the base is the so-called server. Tesira SERVER can accommodate up to eight DSP-2 cards per chassis and two network cards for AVB or CobraNet in any combination. Or, there's a SERVER-IO, which can support up to 12 Tesira I/O cards for up to 48 channels of audio I/O (e.g., mic and line level, VoIP and telephone interface). The SERVER-IO can also be configured with one 420×420 channel AVB-1 card or one AVB-1 card and one or two 32×32 channel SCM-1 cards.
Controllers include two different surface-mounted or in-wall LCD-based keypads, RS232 or Ethernet. Complete specs on the Biamp Tesira are here: http://www.biamp.com/products/tesira/index.aspx
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Share Article Back to Top NEC Display Solutions' Pierre Richer Adds CEO to Title Gary's Note: I have known Pierre for more than a dozen years, and I can safely say that he's one of the top five most creative people in AV. He is a visionary and has passion for this market that is unmatched in his position. He's perfect to steer the NEC ship (and, he's one of the best dressers in AV – no lie. That guy has the most creative shirts I have ever seen). Congrats, Pierre!
NEC Display just promoted President Pierre Richer to CEO, the company announced today. Richer has guided NEC to strong growth, product innovation and channel development over the last five years.
In his new role, Richer will continue to shape the vision of the company, which has enabled NEC to enhance its standing as a projector and LCD market leader, while capitalizing on the growing Digital Out-of-Home (DOOH) advertising market through VUKUNET.
“Pierre has continuously achieved company goals through his tremendous commitment, credibility and creativity, which have translated to a leading market position and revenue growth,” said Nick Akagi, president of NEC Display Solutions Worldwide. “His leadership has been instrumental in transforming NEC Display Solutions into a profitable and premier solutions company.”
“It is an honor to assume the CEO position at NEC Display Solutions, a company that accomplishes extraordinary results with quality employees and products,” Richer said. “I have worked with some very good companies throughout my career, but I have never heard customers and channel partners so often say that we are the best and easiest company to work with. It’s truly a testament to our people who live by our NEC motto of ‘achieving greatness’ by doing amazing things for those same customers and partners.”
Richer has been with NEC since 2003, where he was responsible for sales partner initiatives, marketing and service offerings, as well as introducing new revenue opportunities through the channel. He also played a key role in the successful merger of the projector and plasma business units with the desktop and large-screen LCD business units.
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Share Article Back to Top VidaBox Debuts Power-Over-CAT5 Charging Solution for USB Devices VidaBox's new vCharger and vPower station are a complete long-distance Power-over-CAT5 USB charging solution. The vCharger draws constant voltage from a vPower station via CAT5 cable, and converts that voltage to charge a connected USB device, such as an Apple iPad, iPod, iPhone, Android device, Kindle Fire or Samsung Galaxy Tablet. The vCharger can be located as far as 328 feet away from the vPower, and still provide full charging power. Up to four vCharger units can be connected to a single vPower station by adding a vPower four-port adapter.
vCharger has no moving parts and is designed for ultra-reliable, long term use. This miniature, 3"x2"x2" device can be easily hidden inside any in-wall/back boxes and function without ventilation; it is not rated for standalone, in-wall use. For added flexibility, the vCharger is backwards compatible and can be used with older Power-over-Ethernet (PoE) switches as power sources.
Her are all the specs: http://www.vidabox.com/products_vcharger_poe-like_cat5_usb_charger.php
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Share Article Back to Top Extron Starts XTP System Certification Program Extron has launched the XTP System Certification program for AV system designers and integrators. The program consists of online and instructor-led training for design and implementation of enterprise-wide digital systems based on Extron’s XTP CrossPoint Systems. XTP CrossPoint is a flexible signal switching and distribution system for local and remote devices that provides a completely integrated solution for multiple digital and analog formats. Achieving this manufacturer certification is an industry-recognized way to demonstrate acquired expertise related to digital AV applications.
"Since the introduction of digital AV technology, there’s been a need for in-depth training and instruction,” says Casey Hall, Vice President of Sales and Marketing for Extron. “The XTP System Certification program provides a clear pathway for AV professionals to gain knowledge and experience with Extron digital AV products, and validates that understanding through testing and certification."
Once enrolled in the XTP System Certification program, an individual is required to successfully earn a passing score on an online exam for Digital AV Technologies. Study materials are available online to assist with test preparation. Then, the student attends concentrated instructor-led training and, depending on discipline, sits for one of two final exams: XTP Systems for Technicians – XTP-T or XTP Systems for Design Engineers – XTP-E.
For more information, go to http://www.extron.com/certification
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Share Article Back to Top Premier Adds Plenum Rating to Ceiling Boxes Premier Mounts announced this week that its GB-AVSTOR series are now plenum-rated (UL 2043 certified safety) and permitted to be installed within environmental air spaces. Equipment installed in air-handling spaces, or plenums, must meet installation code requirements for smoke and flammability performance. The UL 2043 certification is a fire test for heat and visible smoke release for discrete products and their accessories installed in air-handling spaces. Equipment installed in plenums must meet specific requirements, making it beneficial for manufacturers to test for UL 2043 compliance.
The GB-AVSTOR series of false ceiling storage equipment boxes provides a safety-certified, secure and discreet storage for A/V and IT components, and ensures a clean and organized room environment. The ceiling boxes GB-AVSTOR3 and GB-AVSTOR5 replace a standard 2×2-ft. ceiling tile, while the GB-AVSTOR4 replace a half of standard 2×2-ft. ceiling tile.
The full product line is here: http://www.mounts.com/gearbox/
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Share Article Back to Top Tecom Launches a Wood AV Lectern At InfoComm, Tecom will launch a new wooden version of its AV podium in the form of the TecPodium W. Designed for ED applications, the TecPodium W is an all-in-one lectern with all devices, such as computers, LCD projectors, and DVD players, managed via a single control panel. The new design includes a 19” rack space. All the AV equipment, including the control system and control panel, is pre-wired and configured within the lectern.
Details are here: http://www.tecpodium.com/en-US/Content.aspx?did=71&miid=45&sel=46
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Share Article Back to Top Polycom UC Board Converts Any Whiteboard (or ANY Surface) Into UC-Capable and Interactive Board Take this, SMART Technologies! Polycom's got a new gizmo, dubbed the UC Board, that LITERALLY transforms ordinary surfaces into virtual whiteboards, making sharing content via video as easy as picking up a pen. UC Board combines a compact infrared sensor that attaches to a whiteboard or monitor (and, by the way, fits in your pocket) and a wireless stylus that meeting hosts can use to sketch, write and annotate just as they would use any pen or marker. The Polycom UC Board works the moment the stylus touches the writing surface, requiring absolutely no technical skill or training to operate – including whiteboard sharing and annotating over content. UC Board provides HD video whiteboarding at a fraction of the cost by leveraging your existing technology or whiteboards.
Still don't understand this product? Check out this video: http://www.polycom.com/products/hd_telepresence_video/realpresence_whiteboard/uc_board.html?vid=Video_Introducing_Polycom_UC_Board
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Share Article Back to Top Well, that's it for this edition of rAVe! Thank you for spending time with us as we muse the industry's happenings. To continue getting my newsletter, or to sign up a friend, click the link below. To send feedback, don't reply to this newsletter – instead, Publisher Gary Kayye at gary@ravepubs.com or Editor-in-Chief Sara Abrons at sara@ravepubs.com
A little about Gary Kayye, CTS, founder of rAVe and Kayye Consulting. Gary Kayye, an audiovisual veteran and columnist, began the widely-read KNews, a premier industry newsletter, in the late 1990s, and created the model for and was co-founder of AV Avenue – which later became InfoComm IQ. Kayye Consulting is a company that is committed to furthering the interests and success of dealers, manufacturers, and other companies within the professional audiovisual industry.
rAVe Pro Edition launched in February 2003. rAVe Home Edition, co-sponsored by CEDIA, launched in February 2004. rAVe Rental [and Staging] launched in November 2007. rAVe Ed [Education] began publication in May 2008.
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To read more about my background, our staff, and what we do, go to https://www.ravepubs.com Back to Top Copyright 2012 – rAVe [Publications] – All rights reserved – All rights reserved. For reprint policies, contact rAVe [Publications], 210 Old Barn Ln. – Chapel Hill, NC 27517 – (919) 969-7501. Email: sara@ravepubs.com
rAVe Ed [Education] contains the opinions of the authors only and does not necessarily reflect the opinions of other persons or companies or its sponsors.
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