Volume 6, Issue 11 — November 12, 2013
|
|
Video Over the Network Takes the Next Step
By Scott Tiner rAVe Columnist
On October 1st of this year, Crestron Electronics sent out a press release that its DMCO 7-series streaming card for DigitalMedia was now shipping. This card was not a huge surprise to the industry, as it had been rumored/discussed since InfoComm of 2012. In addition, the technology had been seen by many people in Crestron’s Capture HD product for a couple of years. While it was not a huge surprise, it is an amazing step forward for the entire AV industry.
From my perspective, the change is based on how Crestron is marketing the product. Crestron writes that “streaming video eliminates any distance limitations, enabling signals to be sent around the building, around the campus or around the world.” The company is saying the product can not only “stream this to outside parties,” but also works as a method of sending video around a building or around a campus. Crestron is beginning to market this product as a video distribution system for the masses.
We have seen other companies and products that distribute video over IP. They typically are very high end and therefore very expensive. Typically, the market these companies target is the medical field. This is the first time I remember a company going directly after the common install, and discussing video distribution over IP as an option for everyone.
In fact, check out the following quote from Crestron’s Fred Bargetzi:
“Streaming is the future of AV, and DM supports this technology today. DM can now stream 1080p HD content directly to computers and Crestron touch screens, as well as to in-house servers or open-source media sites such as Kaltura or Wowza, and stream to any display or mobile device anywhere in the world. A DM network is not really complete without at least one streaming output. Our modular, card-based architecture makes it easy to add streaming to a DM system.” –Fred Bargetzi, VP of Technology
Note that Bargetzi says streaming is the future of AV, and that a DM network is not really complete without at least one streaming output. Those are pretty clear statements about where Crestron believes the future of AV distribution lies.
If this surprises you, then that is a problem that you need to think carefully about. In reality, this should be no more surprising to us than the fact that Haley’s Comet will be when it reappears in 2061. We know both are coming, and yet we are still amazed when they actually arrive.
Thankfully, just like Haley’s Comet, you still have some time to prepare for its arrival. While the Crestron streaming product is good, it’s not great. Right now I don’t see many people jumping on to this for high quality transmission of video — it’s just not good enough yet. Certainly not as good as you can get from using a standard video over UTP system. History has taught us however, that when Crestron puts out a technology like this, they have a whole set of engineers already working on the next generation product, so it won’t be long now.
What do we do today to prepare for this? Partly, it should be the same thing you have been doing for the past several years: UTP cable everywhere you have an AV device, and a few extra cables to places you don’t. Another recommendation from my perspective is to seriously consider running ALL your UTP cables back to the IDF, even those that today you don’t consider to be “network” connections.
Why? Because over the next couple of years, as the AV over IP technology for the masses matures, you will be prepared. In the meantime, you might actually save some money. We have been doing this for the past several projects. Everything is labeled the same way we have always labeled our network connections. Follow whatever scheme you have always used for labeling. In our IDF, we patch depending on whether something is currently on the network, or currently used for AV. In our case, we use yellow Ethernet cables for patching inside the closet, for those connections that are currently only AV. These are short cables that simply jump to another spot on the block. We use blue cables for those that are currently being used as Ethernet; these cables go to a switch. This way, a quick look at the rack can give us an idea of what is going on. Better yet, in two years when we want to switch from AV connections, to Ethernet connections, it is a simple matter of re-patching. No cables need to be run.
There are some very clear challenges with this approach. The first being that you need to be tied in even closer with your networking group. Hopefully, you have already started working on this relationship. In order to get access to the IDF’s and the network patch panels, you are going to need to be a trusted colleague. Another challenge is going to be with distance limitations. Going from your AV closet to a projector in the ceiling may only be 30-40 feet, where going from the computer in the room to an IDF, and then back to a projector may be several hundred feet.
These changes continue to offer amazing opportunities for consultants and integrators to sell their soft services. With these changes, there is a clear need for IT and networking training among former “AV” only people. These are services that forward thinking integrators will help technology managers seek out and attend. Or perhaps for the bigger guys, offer these courses themselves. Certainly design services, along with consulting on these changes is going to be a huge need for technology managers.
I can’t think of a time when the AV industry ever got boring, but these changes certainly will provide a tumultuous and exciting next few years. As tech managers, we need all the education and information we can get. As integrators, dealers and consultants, now is the time to make sure YOU are the expert your customers turn to.
What are your thoughts? Is this change as close as I think? Have any of the readers already used this technology in your “average” installation? Let me know. I look forward to hearing from you. Leave a Comment
Share Article
Back to Top |
Click above to learn more
|
|
Sony Tanks Again (But Apple Can Save Them!)
By Gary Kayye rAVe Founder
While most of you were sleeping last night, Sony execs were mostly sleepless as they’d just announced a huge loss — one of the worst in company history. I mean huge. In fact, after releasing a 40 percent reduction in their 2013 profit forecast and a nearly $200 million loss for the most recent quarter, their stock tanked over 10 percent on the Tokyo Stock Exchange right after the announcement.
What the heck is wrong? Is Sony leadership clueless?
They are, at best, an also-ran right now in consumer electronics without a single innovation since their famed PlayStation home video game player. Nothing.
Sony had decades of pioneering with awesome gear including the Walkman, the Video8 format, Blu-ray, Betamax, SDDS sound, the CD (with Pioneer), the floppy disc for computers, the memory stick and DVD-Audio — all inventions that were huge successes; heck, even the ones you think weren’t successful, in fact, were. Take Betamax, for example. Betamax lost the home video format war of the 1970s and ’80s, but every studio, production company or TV field camera used the format for over 20 years — Sony sold millions.
But, since the company’s heyday in the 1980s and ’90s, it’s floundered, at best as a “me too” manufacturer — with one exception: PlayStation.
And, thank goodness for Sony, the PlayStation 4 (aka PS4) is about to ship — otherwise, it’d be a total train wreck heading towards nothingness.
But Sony’s 4K projector is amazing. Its XBR series of flat screen HDTVs are incredible. But, nothing else excites anyone (minus the PlayStation 4 — which will miss the 2013 Christmas season of sales). But Sony, in nearly all areas of consumer electronics, faces stiff competition from Korean manufacturers LG and Samsung with both 4K and high-end HDTVs. And, as both those two companies are flying high — and have much better brand recognition and respect among up-and-coming Millenial buyers, Sony is doomed.
Or, are they? What can they do to recover and climb back up to the top of the consumer electronics pinnacle?
Here are two suggestions:
1. Partner to Innovate: Sony just isn’t doing any right now. None. It’s like it’s given up and are reacting to what everyone else is doing in nearly every product category. Sure, it tried a tablet, a phone and a set-top box, but all three have been nothing special. No unique features, no great “gotta have it” at all. So, Sony NEEDS to partner to survive. And, it can’t be a normal partnership — no using Android to build phones or new tablets or a set-top box or even Smart TVs. It needs to differentiate as that’s what Samsung, LG, et al. are already doing. So, what do they do?
Partner with Apple — in a BIG way (i.e., Apple, which is sitting on a mountain of cash, should buy Sony). Apple, too, is about to go through what Sony went through in the early 2000s – Apple’s been on top for nearly a decade and is starting to slip thanks to the same set of manufacturers that have chipped away at Sony’s market share in recent years. But, unlike Sony, Apple has innovative technology and intellectual property (and a built-in LOYAL user base that won’t just go away). And, if Apple were to partner with anyone in consumer electronics, it should be Sony. Everyone else is partnered with either Microsoft or Google (Android), so Sony needs someone else. And, NO it can’t do it itself. If it did, go ahead and start digging Sony’s grave as IT WON’T WORK.
So, why would Apple even entertain this? Simple — the studio (aka content for iTunes and the Apple TV) AND a way for Apple to integrate iOS, its mobile operating system, into a plethora of consumer electronics gear it currently doesn’t make (e.g., TVs, Blu-ray players, whole home AV systems, receivers and, dare I say it, a different line of phones). It’s a win-win.
2. Sell it Yourself: Best Buy’s turned into the biggest bait-and-switch retailer in the country. You never know what they’re going to recommend (unless you happen to have access to their weekly spiff sheets) to a shopper who walks in its stores. But, nine out of 10 times, it won’t be Sony. So, how do you even get something from Sony if you wanted it? Sure, a lot of people buy online and will use SonyStyle.com to shop, but most still buy home entertainment products via the showroom and Best Buy controls that nearly everywhere. So, Sony needs its own retail presence. So, get some (more) stores. Or, better yet, see suggestion #1 above.
Look at it another way: Apple is strong in innovation and has brand loyalty wrapped up among the teens, 20-somethings and 30-somethings. Sony is lacking innovation but has brand loyalty only with 40-somethings and above and has the manufacturing capacity Apple lacks (Apple outsources all manufacturing to third party companies around the world like Flextronics). So, Apple would gain manufacturing capacity, integration of its iOS mobile operating system into everything Sony makes and buys brand loyalty for the older crowd. Sony gets access to innovation, instant brand loyalty from the younger crowd and one of the best retail channels on the planet.
Apple should buy Sony before there’s not a Sony left to buy. Leave a Comment
Share Article
Back to Top |
|
Extron Ships PlenumVault Systems for Suspended Ceiling Installs Extron’s new PlenumVault Systems, a family of centralized AV switching and control systems designed for classrooms with a suspended ceiling, is now shipping. These economical classroom AV systems use twisted pair technology for transmitting signals and include network connectivity for Web-based asset management, monitoring and control. PlenumVault Systems take their name from the unique PlenumVault Mounting Kit that securely mounts and conceals system components in the plenum space above a suspended ceiling.
Several standard PlenumVault Systems are available to streamline the design and procurement process. These two-, three-, and four-input systems include all the necessary audio and video switching, audio amplification, system control, source connectivity, speakers, mounting hardware and cabling for a complete classroom AV solution. All integrators have to add is the video projector, projection screen and video sources.
Here are all the details. Leave a Comment
Share Article
Back to Top |
Vivitek Introduces NovoClassroom Vivitek has just launched NovoClassroom, a tablet software package that helps with teacher/student interaction in the classroom. NovoClassroom is available on both the iOS and Android platform tablets and also integrates with other classroom technology, including interactive whiteboards and projectors. The system coordinates classroom interaction between teacher and students and incorporates presentation management, instant response and two-way annotation into its suite of features like:
- Teaching mode – The teacher can stream content to all tablets in class.
- Instant response mode – The teacher can distribute a test or quiz to all tablets and once complete it can be sent back to the host where grading is created instantly.
- Projection from the tablet – This allows for more flexible teaching methods and better classroom interactions can be designed.
- Sharing annotations – Those made on student tablets can be shared with the teacher and publicly projected at the teacher’s discretion.
- Connect up to 40 tablets simultaneously, which covers the majority of technology requirements for primary and secondary school education.
Leave a Comment
Share Article
Back to Top |
Click above to learn more
|
Projectors Still Dominating Education Market TFCinfo today announced the completion of its latest report: “The Use of Projection and Interactive Whiteboards in Education 2013.” TFCinfo’s report examines and provides detailed information on the use of projectors and interactive whiteboards in educational settings, along with AV video display buying trends in both K-12 and higher education.
The need to improve the learning process and enhance the educational experience has been driving AV purchases in educational institutions for years. With the trend of downward pricing, investing in more AV technology is finally a possibility for more and more schools.
This research shows that interactivity continues to be increasingly important to the educational initiatives in K-12 and interactive applications are in demand for all educators who want to involve their students and use learning with technology as a tool. “Interactivity has progressed greatly, despite its additional cost. K-12 has made the most use of interactivity and thus gives a significantly higher priority to interactive features of video displays,” states Tanya Lippke, TFCinfo director of survey market research. “70 percent of those in K-12 state that on screen interaction is extremely/very important to them, compared to 49 percent in higher education.”
The interactivity that is desired in school settings can be reached in all three technologies (projectors, whiteboards and flat panels), and this research has revealed some very interesting insights into the competitive interaction of the different display technologies.
While projectors are still the display technology that is most widely used in K-12, it is interactive whiteboards that are highly desired by educators. K-12′s strong interest and figures for interactive whiteboards in this research is actually quite interesting considering budget sensitivities. This suggests that K-12 is continuing to research and look towards interactive whiteboards for their needs and are perhaps still not fully aware of the emergence of lower priced interactive projectors as a cheaper alternative.
Since interactive whiteboards are still not available in very large numbers in schools, the lower priced interactive projectors and flat panels could have a major impact on the market position of interactive whiteboards in K-12. The rate of adoption of interactive displays in the education market could also be affected with more awareness for the differing technologies at different price points at an end user level.
Projectors perform very well in comparison to other display devices, especially among those in higher education. Projectors currently dominate in higher education due to image size, although many of the most important characteristics of a video display (as rated by end users in each educational sub-segment) are being delivered and met by projectors. Projectors offer the largest display, at an affordable price, without taking up precious classroom space.
This report also revealed a large intent to purchase flat panels in the future for higher education. This is potentially disturbing for projectors; however these are likely for digital signage and entertainment applications, rather than classroom use.
Some major differences are seen in this research between the two groups as to what information sources are most influential, who has the decision making power, how often and how many video displays are being purchased, and how the purchase process works.
This 260+ page report provides readers with the answers needed to more fully understand this market segment, and will enable them to approach this market in a more informed manner. Along with research conclusions of the overall education segment and usage of the displays, some important topics covered include: the install base for video displays, brand usage, future purchasing and important product characteristics, the purchase process (influencers, decision makers, frequency, and training), and much more.
This detailed study is now available for purchase. For a complete brochure and outline of this report, contact Tanya Lippke, TFCinfo director of survey market research, at (207) 783-0055 or tmlippke@tfcinfo.net. Leave a Comment
Share Article
Back to Top |
NEC Intros 65-Inch Touch Screen NEC Display just added a 65-inch model to its Touch-Integrated V Series. The commercial-grade panel and components promote extended use and deliver superior touchscreen capabilities for digital signage and video wall applications in education, corporate, retail and restaurant environments.
NEC’s V652-TM display offers digital signage users interactive capabilities with full-HD resolution at a cost-conscious price. Within the Touch-Integrated V Series bezel is an integrated, low-profile, four-camera optical-imaging technology that allows for up to six simultaneous touches. Its anti-reflective glass coating protects the panel and allows for higher brightness transmittance.
The new touch-Integrated V Series model includes the following features:
- Commercial-grade LCD panel and components
- 1920×1080 native resolution, 16:9 aspect ratio, 430 cd/m2 (maximum brightness), and 4000:1 contrast ratio
- 4-camera optical-imaging technology, which supports up to six simultaneous touches
- Integrated, double-sided anti-reflective glass protects the LCD panel, while minimizing reflectivity
- DisplayPort, HDMI and DVI-D
- Networking capabilities through RS232C, RJ45, IR Remote and DDC/CI inputs
- Built-in expansion slot for Open Pluggable Specification (OPS) devices
- Built-in, low-profile 10-watt speakers
- Optional accessories, which include stands, 3G/HD/SD-SDI card, DVI daisy chain, OPS devices, OPS adapter (required for use with OPS adapters) and external PCs
The V652-TM will list for $7,499 and ship later this month. Here are the details. Leave a Comment
Share Article
Back to Top |
Click above to learn more
|
Chief Adds Extra-Large Mobile Monitor Cart to Fusion LineChief has launched the Extra-Large Fusion Mobile Cart. Using rounded edges, the new Chief XPAU is part of its Fusion series that includes features for easy customization. The cart was designed for extra-large and touch panel displays from 55” to more than 100” and up to 300 pounds (136 kilograms). The cart also can be customized for dual monitor video-conferencing use with the dual monitor accessory and a camera shelf.
Other features include:
- A turn knob to allow a single user to easily adjust the screen height 48-65” (122-165 centimeters)
- Flexible cable covers for lay-in access anywhere along the column
- Room for internal storage of AV components, including hardware to vertically mount 2 RUs of AV gear
- Black or silver finish
Here are all the details. Leave a Comment
Share Article
Back to Top |
Extron Now Shipping HDMI Streaming Encoders and Decoders Extron is now shipping the VN-Matrix 250 series of encoders and decoders, which provide real-time transmission of high resolution HDCP-compliant HDMI, DVI or RGB video across standard IP networks. The VN-Matrix 250 Series accepts HDMI and RGB signals at resolutions up to 1920×1200 and 2048×1080 and streams video and audio over an IP network, preserving the native source resolution of digital or analog video sources. It offers a wide range of features to support diverse streaming application requirements including USB keyboard and mouse data transport, bidirectional RS232 control, return audio streaming, multiple network ports and support for both HDMI-embedded and analog stereo audio.
VN-Matrix 250 Series encoders and decoders use the PURE3 codec, which provides an unmatched combination of bit rate efficiency, low latency, visually lossless image quality and a high immunity to network errors. VN-Matrix 250 systems excel in applications with demanding quality requirements such as command and control, training and simulation, or distance collaboration applications in government, aerospace, energy or medical environments. With its very low encode and decode latency of just 35 milliseconds each, the VN-Matrix 250 Series is ideal for applications that must support bidirectional communication and real-time decision making. The combination of high quality, low delay, and flexible bit rate management makes the VN-Matrix 250 Series the ideal solution for many quality-critical applications.
For more information on the VN-Matrix 250 Series, click here. Leave a Comment
Share Article
Back to Top |
Vaddio Ships GroupSTATIONVaddio says that GroupSTATION makes it easy to create BYOD-ready meeting rooms by providing a single solution that connects to the user’s device. The Vaddio solution includes the necessary peripherals to create a high-quality multi-use room and group collaboration experience: an HD PTZ camera, loudspeakers, microphones and a control dock. Users simply connect personal devices to the GroupSTATION or HuddleSTATION control dock via a USB or HDMI connection and begin using their favorite collaboration tools.
Employees can collaborate remotely with PowerPoint or Keynote presentations, engage in high definition videoconferencing using Skype, Microsoft Lync, WebEx or any other application, as well as record meetings for review and provide record keeping of participants who could not attend the meeting. Users can also use SIP-based Voice over IP (VoIP) for multi-person audio conferencing or stream videos over IP using YouTube, Vimeo or any other application of their choice.
It’s that simple: Whatever device employees want to use, whatever operating system they have, whatever way they want to collaborate, and whatever application they want to use — they can.
The Vaddio GroupSTATION details are here. Leave a Comment
Share Article
Back to Top |
Click above to learn more
|
BenQ’s Revamped 3000 Lumen M5 Projector Series Debuts BenQ America just introduced its revamped line of M5 series projectors: the MS504, MS521, MX505, MX522 and MW523. These projectors are aimed at small- to medium-sized spaces, specified with 3,000 ANSI lumens and a 10,000 hour lamp life. Every model uses BenQ’s SmartEco technology that includes a “no source detected” mode that automatically lowers brightness to 30 percent when no display has been detected for more than three minutes and a standby mode with power consumption to less than 0.5 watts during periods of inactivity.
Available in SVGA (MS504 and MS521), XGA (MX505 and MX522) and WXGA (MW523) resolutions and the new projectors use BenQ’s Colorific image system that they claim gives contrast ratios of 13000:1.
For 3D applications, the MS521, MX522 and MW523 feature 3D Blu-ray compatibility while the MS504 and MX505 are capable of stereoscopic 3D-ready projection. Available end of November, BenQ’s new MS504, MS521, MX505, MX522 and MW523 retail at $429, $489, $499, $529 and $749, respectively.
Complete specs are here. Leave a Comment
Share Article
Back to Top |
Vivitek Targets IWB Market with New NovoBoard Whiteboard Frame Adapter
Vivitek has launched NovoBoard, a new, adjustable interactive whiteboard proximity frame. The NovoBoard frame can be installed on any school whiteboard to turn the surface to be interactive with the combination of a projector. With its built in IR LED optical sensing system, NovoBoard enables two users to write simultaneously on the board using a finger or stylus pen. Simple to install and operate, NovoBoard is a good solution for schools and academies looking for a cost effective way to add touch screen technology to their classrooms. Key features of the NovoBoard include an easy to install and lightweight design, an adjustable frame size from 69” to 95” and a plug and play USB port.
NovoBoard also comes bundled with free NovoTeach software for a complete interactive learning experience. NovoTeach is an interactive whiteboard (IWB) software package that is designed especially for teaching at all learning levels, whether classroom teaching or lecture material preparation. With multipoint-sensing enabled and a Vivitek interactive projector, it is an effective and powerful tool that offers a new blueprint for future-proof interactive learning.
The NovoBoard Small, 69″-80” lists for about $800 USD and the NovoBoard Large, 80″-95” is about $1,100 USD. You can find out more information about both here.
Leave a Comment
Share Article
Back to Top |
Extron Now Shipping Media Presentation Switcher with DTP ExtensionExtron is shipping the MPS 602 — a six-input media presentation switcher for digital and analog sources. It offers digital video switching with three HDCP-compliant HDMI inputs and one DTP 230 twisted pair input, and analog video switching with two RGB inputs that are digitized for distribution to the digital outputs. For increased flexibility, the MPS 602 includes a DTP 230 twisted pair output and an HDMI output that are switch-selectable. The DTP 230 input and output extend video, audio and bidirectional control signals to DTP 230 transmitters and receivers, each over a single CATx cable up to 230 feet (70 meters). The MPS 602 also includes several audio switching and processing features, available power amplification, plus flexible control options for complete switching and distribution with local and remote display support. The MPS 602 is available in three models: a non-amplified version with a variable preamp output, the MPS 602 SA that adds a stereo 4/8 ohm power amplifier, and the MPS 602 MA with a mono 70 volt amplifier.
The DTP 230 twisted pair input on the MPS 602 can receive signals from a remote DTP 230 transmitter in areas such as a conference table, lectern, or wall for connecting a guest laptop. The DTP 230 twisted pair output can be used to transmit digital AV signals from an MPS 602 in a rack to a DTP 230 receiver behind a flat-panel display on a wall, above a ceiling-mounted projector, or any other remote location. To simplify installation, bidirectional RS232 and IR signals can be inserted from a control system and transmitted over the single CATx cable together with the video and audio, enabling control of a source or display. The MPS 602 can also remotely power the DTP 230 transmitter and receiver over the same CATx cable, streamlining system design and installation.
The MPS 602 includes six-input analog audio switching, a mic/line input with 48 volt phantom power, HDMI audio embedding and de-embedding, and several audio processing features for mixing and ducking. The mic ducking feature automatically reduces program audio when it detects a microphone signal, replacing the need for a separate ducking processor. To streamline audio setup, the MPS 602 features front panel mic and program audio output volume controls that allow for independent adjustment of mic volume, program audio volume, and muting. Two MPS 602 models feature integrated power amplifiers. The MPS 602 SA delivers stereo power amplification with 50 watts rms per channel into 4 ohms and 25 watts rms per channel into 8 ohms, while the MPS 602 MA provides mono 70 volt amplification with 100 watts rms output.
To simplify integration of sources and displays, and to help ensure optimal system performance and dependability, the MPS 602 features two Extron-exclusive technologies: EDID Minder and Key Minder. EDID Minder manages EDID communication between the display device and input sources to ensure that the correct video formats are displayed reliably. For HDMI signals with protected content, Key Minder authenticates and maintains continuous HDCP encryption between input and output devices to ensure quick and reliable switching.
Here are all the specs. Leave a Comment
Share Article
Back to Top |
Christie Ships Mirage WQ-L Projector Christie’s newest Mirage WQ-L projector is an LED, 1-chip DLP projection system featuring WQXGA (2560×1600) resolution and 800 ANSI lumens. Using an LED light engine rated at 60,000-hours (approximately 6.5 years) life cycle, the Christie Mirage WQ-L includes Christie ArrayLOC for synchronized color and brightness management, which Christie says reduces calibration requirements. The Christie Mirage WQ-L is targeted at the aerospace, automotive, oil and gas, government, education and entertainment markets.
The Christie Mirage WQ-L operates off the exclusive Christie KoRE electronics and firmware platform, which provides the most extensive level of input capability and control flexibility available for advanced visualizations systems.
The Christie Mirage WQ-L is shipping now and all the details specs are here. Leave a Comment
Share Article
Back to Top |
SurgeX Launches Defender Series Aimed at Digital Signage MarketESP/SurgeX’s new Defender Series MultiPak is a multi-stage surge protector and power conditioner specifically designed to safeguard digital signage arrays. Available in four (SX-DS-154) and six (SX-DS-156) outlet configurations, the MultiPak provides advanced protection against damaging surges, spikes, over/under voltage, EMI/RFI noise, wiring faults, and other power issues that can degrade video display performance.
In addition to its multi-stage surge protection technology, the MultiPak includes COUVS (Catastrophic Over/Under Voltage Shutdown) to insures multi-panel displays will not sustain catastrophic damage from having too little or too much power voltage coming from the AC line and SurgeX ICE (Inrush Current Elimination) technology with zero cross turn-on removes the need for time delay circuit breakers or startup sequencing.
The MultiPak is designed to be concealed within the mounting system as it’s thin and low-profile and it’s rated to handle 15 Amp loads.
For complete specs, click here. Leave a Comment
Share Article
Back to Top |
BenQ Releases World’s First Custom-Built CAD/CAM Monitor for 3D Printing BenQ just launched the first wide quad high-definition (WQHD) monitor designed for 3D printing, computer-aided design (CAD) and computer-aided manufacturing (CAM) applications: the BL2710PT. Custom-built to ready users for the rise of 3D print technology, the monitor is made to meet the functional, creative and ergonomic demands of designers, architects, and engineers. The 27-inch 2560×1440 WQHD display includes two USB 3.0 ports, it detects ambient light levels and automatically adjusts monitor brightness and inputs include DisplayPort and HDMI 4.0.
Here are all the specs on the $699 display. Leave a Comment
Share Article
Back to Top |
Epson Partners with Almo Pro A/V in Distribution DealThis week Almo Pro A/V announced an agreement with Epson America to distribute the complete line of Epson commercial projection models, including the BrightLink Pro Interactive Meeting Room Solution. Epson has also joined the Almo E4 AV Fall 2013 Tour.
“Epson is clearly a leader in projection technology with some of the most specialized high end projectors for everything from the conference room and classroom to large rental and staging venues like stadiums and concert halls,” said Sam Taylor, executive vice president and COO for Almo Professional A/V. “Additionally, Epson understands the needs and capabilities of the AV dealer by providing quality demo products and great margin potential. With Epson on the E4 AV Tour this fall, our partners will have valuable one-on-one networking time and the opportunity for hands-on product interaction.”
The following Epson commercial projection solutions are now available through Almo Pro A/V:
- Epson BrightLink Pro 1410Wi: The new meeting room productivity tool helps increase collaboration throughout an organization. Using the 3100-lumen WXGA interactive projector, it is simple to use because it works like an appliance and doesn’t require a computer. BrightLink Pro serves as a digital whiteboard allowing any wall to be used as an interactive surface. It also offers exclusively-designed optional all-in-one mounts from Chief Mounts.
- PowerLite Pro Z Series Multimedia Projectors: Offer up to 10,000 lumens of color light output and 10,000 lumens of white light output for virtually any venue, including lecture halls, conference centers and entertainment venues, even those with ambient light.
- PowerLite Pro G Series Multimedia Projectors: Epson’s first projector family offering up to 7,000 lumens with a single lamp, select models in the Pro G Series combine HDBase-T, HD-SDI, HDMI and DisplayPort connections and the ability to accommodate live video streaming, making them ideal for applications requiring installation flexibility and robust connectivity.
Epson is here and Almo Pro A/V is here. Leave a Comment
Share Article
Back to Top |
Extron Adds Two-Input XTP Wall Plate Transmitter Extron just launched the XTP T UWP 302, a two-input XTP wall plate transmitter that provides the ability to connect local source devices at a wall or other locations including a lectern or floor box. This XTP transmitter mounts into a standard three-gang junction box, and sends HDMI or RGBHV video, audio and control up to 330 feet (100 meters) over a single CATx cable. It is HDCP-compliant and supports computer-video to 1920×1200, including HDTV 1080p/60 Deep Color and 2K. For simplified integration, the XTP T UWP 302 features automatic switching between inputs with selectable prioritization, and can be powered over the same CATx cable. The XTP T UWP 302 is designed for use in XTP Systems for signal distribution and long-distance transmission between remote endpoints.
The XTP T UWP 302 can transmit HDMI with its embedded audio, or alternatively, embed audio from a separate analog stereo input prior to transmission. This XTP transmitter features two Extron’s EDID Minder, which ensures continuous EDID communication between devices, and Key Minder, which authenticates and maintains HDCP encryption to provide quick and reliable transmission across the XTP System infrastructure.
Here are all the specs. Leave a Comment
Share Article
Back to Top |
NEC Launches New Flagship P Series LED-Backlit LCDsThis week NEC Display Solutions released the latest generation of its flagship P Series commercial-grade displays: the 40-inch P403, 46-inch P463, 55-inch P553 and 70-inch P703 displays. All feature a new thinner chassis (56 percent thinner), LED edge-lit back lights, two expansion slots, Near Field Communication (NFC) capabilities. They also use 33 percent less power than the last generation.
P Series are commercial-grade displays aimed at harsh install environments, including quick-service restaurants, airports, public information areas, healthcare facilities and retail stores. Integrated with internal temperature sensors with self-diagnostics and fan-based technology to prevent overheating. These 1920×1090 displays are spec’d at 700 cd/m2 brightness and are the first with a built-in NFC sensor. A human sensor accessory can be both an energy saver and enabler of creativity.
The displays also support two expansion slots — one with Open Pluggable Specification (OPS) technology and a second slot for additional connectivity. The OPS slot adheres to the Intel specification for standardizing and simplifying slot-oriented digital signage installations. The second slot allows for customizable input options.
Inputs include DisplayPort, VGA, HDMI and LAN ports. The displays offer PiP capability, IR lock and can be daisy chained. The P403, P463, P553 and P703 are priced at $1,449, $1,829, $2,699 and $8,399, respectively.
Here are all the specs. Leave a Comment
Share Article
Back to Top |
AmpliVox Debuts Boomboxes (Yes, Really)AmpliVox Sound Systems has just launched the SL1010 Boombox and SL1014 Listening Center/Boombox combinations. These classic sound system easily adapt to different situations and supports a variety of audio formats, including an AM/FM radio, a top-loading CD player, an auto-stop cassette recorder/player, and SD card and USB ports for student or teacher-generated content. The AmpliVox Boombox combines all these options in an affordable and portable single unit.
With technology changing at a breakneck pace, Amplivox says it can be challenging to find equipment that bridges the gap between older and newer systems. For schools, churches and other organizations on a tight budget, this can cause waste when useful audio resources become obsolete. The AmpliVox Boomboxes makes it easy to access CD and cassette media without the expense of digital transfers or major equipment upgrades. The Boombox runs on external power or batteries and can easily be moved from room to room with the built-in handle. With the addition of the Listening Center, up to six users can plug in headphones to hear the audio without disturbing others.
Get more info here. Leave a Comment
Share Article
Back to Top |
|
For all you REGULAR readers of rAVe ED [Education] 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).
Don’t like us? Then go away — unsubscribe! Just use the link below.
To send us feedback, don’t reply to this newsletter. Instead, write directly to founder Gary at gary@ravepubs.com or Editor-in-Chief Sara Abrons at sara@ravepubs.com
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
To read more about rAVe’s team and what we do, go to https://www.ravepubs.com Back to Top |
Copyright 2013 – 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 contains the opinions of the author only and does not necessarily reflect the opinions of other persons or companies or its sponsors. |
|
|
|