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Volume 6, Issue 3 — March 7, 2013
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Digital Signage: More than a Posterboard
By Scott Tiner Last week’s Digital Signage Expo in Las Vegas was the Expo’s 10th anniversary. It amazes me that a segment of our industry has grown to this level in just ten years. I find digital signage to be so interesting, because for what seems to be a fairly straightforward technology, there are so many applications.
Digital signage can serve a lot of needs and be a lot of things, but unfortunately cheap is not one of them. The cost of setting up a single sign can be anywhere from $3,000 to $10,000, depending on your design and vendor. Once you network that equipment, the cost goes up even higher. Education has struggled on this front, as it has been hard for us to find the Return on Investment (ROI) for a system that costs in the tens of thousands of dollars. We don’t have the same monetary incentive that retailers have to use this technology to generate income.
We have been working with digital signs for about six years ago. It began with a request from our Dean of Faculty’s office for a way to post information about upcoming events, or celebrate academic achievements of our faculty and students. The first sign was a success and every year they would ask us to put up another sign in a new location. From the start we used Tightrope Media System because we knew it could grow with us, and we did not need a massive investment up front.
Slowly, one sign became four, then five and now we have a total of 14 digital signs on our campus. This includes one in every academic building, our two athletic buildings, our dining hall, our student center, our admissions office and our theater.
We have learned some things over the years which have made the digital signage system add value to our community. This first step in this project, like any successful project is to define who does what. As the IT/AV people, we spec, design, install and support the digital signs, but we do not create content. To that end, we are at a point where we do not even provide training for our users. Our communications office has taken on the role of creating all the templates, and training all the users. Each sign has its own local admin who can create content, edit content and approve content. This gives us the ability to keep the signs fresh and updated. No one person is responsible for the content, and most importantly, we (my group) are not responsible for the content. This should be a familiar concept between the IT/AV and Communications groups at institutions. We went through this years ago when IT got out of the business of updating content on web pages. In fact, the model we use for our digital signs is almost an exact duplicate of what we do with our web pages.
In addition to the standard task of advertising events, we have found several additional uses for our digital signs. One task is to stream live video to the signs. We have used this for major campus events such as commencement and convocation. We also use it for remote monitoring. For example, a digital sign outside our concert hall serves as a audio and video monitor of the event happening inside the hall. As people show up late they can see what is going on inside without walking in and interrupting the performance. When they see a break, they can sneak in. During our athletics contests we stream video to the monitors outside of the gymnasium, so people who go to grab a snack or a bit of fresh air can still see what is happening. This proved very useful during a swim meet for our local high school teams. All of the families could not fit in the pool area, so they watched the monitor outside and would rotate in and out as their own child’s event came and went. The beauty of all this is that it is automatically programmed to switch the content. So, right before an event starts, the video feed turns on. Once the event ends, the content goes back to the regularly scheduled content.
A wonderful feature of a networked digital signage system is the ability to make a global announcement. With a networked system a user can log into a web page and set an alert to all the monitors on your campus, or to subsets of the signs. This may pass important information to customers, like closings due to weather. Obviously, we all hope that we never need to use this system in a time of violence or danger on campus, but we also need to be aware of the possibility. I recommend you put a policy in place on how you would handle this situation. In our case, our security office does not directly use the Tightrope System. It is such a rare event that they need to use it, when the time comes they will have forgotten how. Instead, we have identified a couple of everyday users who they would contact in an emergency and those people would set the alert message.
One thing that I will caution against is trying to develop your own custom built digital signage system. I know of a couple cases where this was attempted and neither of them ended very well. In both cases the technology manager got into a position where he was the only person who could support these systems. So, while it looked like a lot of money was being saved up front, one has to question how much money was spent in support of these devices and how much time was lost waiting for this single point of support. When the first request for a digital sign came to our department, there was some discussion of putting a Mac Mini behind a monitor and running a slide show. While this would have been less expensive up front, it was not scalable and would have required a great deal of training and support. If we have taken this approach we would be a real pinch right now trying to support 14 signs.
Integrators and designers can help technology managers on this front, by showing them all the various options for digital signage and more importantly, the various things it allows you to do. Show us these features and tell us how other educational institutions are using them. Budgets are tight, and we may have pressure from above to use an inexpensive “Mac Mini” type solution. You can arm us with the right information to educate our customers. Also, give us some options as to how we can grow. Many schools can not afford a $100,000 investment up front.
In a recent blog on rAVe I wrote about convergence — this is another example of where convergence is simply a part of life. You will eventually, if not immediately, need a server that links all your digital sign boxes. Each device will need to be on the network, and it is desirable to have the system connected into your authentication system so the accounts link to accounts your users already have (LDAP, active directory, etc.). All of this will require strong partnership with your networking folks. Many systems now branch in other systems. For example, they can read and display RSS feeds and they can tie into your campus scheduling system and show events from it based on criteria you define. The Tightrope system, for example, gives you Web pages that display your digital signage content. Maybe it is time to take your network administrator out to lunch.
Have you started using digital signage in your institution? Was it a success? How did you setup your team and what equipment did you use? I’m looking forward to hearing from you!
Scott is very active in the field, having presented at both regional and national conferences. In 2011, he was appointed as chair of the Technology Managers Council of InfoComm. Scott can be contacted via LinkedIn, on Twitter at http://www.twitter.com/stiner or via email at stiner08@gmail.com
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Share Article Back to Top SMART Technologies Pulls Out of InfoComm
By Gary Kayye
rAVe Founder We've learned that SMART Technologies, once the de facto standard in electronic and interactive whiteboards, has pulled out of the top AV show: InfoComm.
In explaining the decision to their channel, SMART said, "This decision was made based on how SMART can best utilize our budget and resources to deliver the best programs to you in 2013."
Unlike Extron, who also pulled out of the U.S. InfoComm show, SMART's leadership role in the interactive whiteboard market isn't increasing; it's declining. In fact, about 20 percent of classroom and meeting room projectors sold now are pre-integrated with built-in interactivity. In addition, up-and-comer Promethean is taking market share from SMART in chunks.
Here's a copy of the letter that went out this morning to their sales channel:
Dear valued channel member,
I am writing to advise you that SMART will not be exhibiting at InfoComm 2013 in Orlando, Florida. This decision was made based on how SMART can best utilize our budget and resources to deliver the best programs to you in 2013. We look forward to sharing these plans with you throughout the year.
In the mean time, please take advantage of some of our other customer engagement opportunities.
Engage your customers with the following opportunities:
- Executive Briefing Centers and Microsoft Technology Centers — Did you know SMART has over 30 Executive Briefing Centers and Microsoft Technology Centers around the world? Let me know if you would like to book a customer event at one of our Executive Briefing Centers or Microsoft Technology Centers.
- Join us at other trade shows and events including, Enterprise Connect in Orlando, on March 18 — 21 — Bring your customers to see how SMART has transformed the face of collaboration at Enterprise Connect. Use this priority code to receive a Free ExpoPlus pass or 40% off a conference registration package; priority code: CMSMART. Check Sourcewire regularly for updates on additional trade shows and events throughout the year.
- Scheduled meetings with me to support your customer engagements — Need support on an upcoming sales opportunity? I’m here to help.
- Invite SMART to attend your events — Whether you’re hosting an exclusive or non-exclusive event, I’m happy to support you in making this event successful. Let me know how I can help.
- Leverage Campaign Central campaigns to nurture your customers — From assessment tool to events and webinars, SMART’s Campaign Central has several customizable campaigns you can run to turn your prospects into customers.
I look forward to working with you on some of these opportunities and look forward to helping you have a more than outstanding year in 2013!
Kathy Dubreuil
Area Manager for Eastern Canada
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InfoComm Opens 2013 Show Registration More than 10,000 of the hottest technology products from more than 925 companies will be featured at InfoComm 2013 in Orlando, Florida, June 8-14, at the Orange County Convention Center. Attendee registration is now available at http://www.infocommshow.org.
InfoComm 2013 has more than 500,000 net square feet of show floor exhibits and special events space. More than 35,000 professionals are expected to attend the show, with a third of attendees coming from technology managers, specifiers and end-user communities. InfoComm caters to a broad spectrum of market sectors, including business, government, military, education, worship, healthcare, hospitality, retail and entertainment.
Showcasing the latest AV technology, InfoComm 2013 provides the multi-billion dollar industry and its customers with a thriving show floor, along with unsurpassed education and training. Attendees will hear from all the leading audio brands in demo rooms and on the show floor, get connected with collaborative conferencing in the Unified Collaborative Conferencing Pavilion, experience the latest signs of the times at the Digital Signage Pavilion and see the latest in illumination and production in the Lighting and Staging Pavilion. The Technologies for Worship Pavilion will feature the latest AV technology applied for House of Worship staff and volunteers, while new technology zones will highlight emerging trends in the areas of digital content creation, education applications, mobile videoconferencing and security solutions.
"The $78 billion AV industry continues to grow each year," said InfoComm Executive Director and CEO David Labuskes, CTS, RCDD. "Demand for AV technology, including control systems, conferencing, digital signage and networked audio, has increased dramatically in the built environment. Audiences expect increasingly spectacular live events. This interest has resulted in a thriving Show, and I am confident that InfoComm 2013 attendees will experience the most dynamic InfoComm ever."
InfoComm is often praised by attendees and exhibitors as the "can't miss" technology show of the year because of the ability to interact with all segments of the industry in just a few days, while having the opportunity to attend more than 300 educational sessions offered by InfoComm University and valued partner groups. Beyond the show floor, AV Technology Tours will allow attendees to see installed AV projects in action and networking activities will bring everyone together, allowing for the development of meaningful conversations and relationships.
The U.S. Department of Commerce is supporting InfoComm 2013 by promoting the show to overseas attendees because of its export potential, international interest, U.S. exhibitor offerings, stature and overseas marketing efforts. More than 4,500 attendees from 90 countries outside of North America are expected to visit the event.
InfoComm 2013 is sponsored by Christie, Crestron and Samsung. For more news on InfoComm 2013 before, during and after the show, visit http://www.infocommshow.org
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Share Article Back to Top Russian Manufacturer Polymedia Takes Aim at InFocus MondoPad Nearly-unknown Russian manufacturer Polymedia thinks it has a better MondoPad than MondoPad originator InFocus with the FlipBox.
Flipbox is a multi-functional, user-friendly interactive display for business meeting rooms from five to 20 attendees. It allows writing and drawing in flip-chart mode, displaying data and demonstrating presentations from flash drives, going on-line and holding video conferences without the need for a separate computer or videoconference terminal.
Flipbox offers a high resolution screen (1920×1080), built-in stereo loudspeakers, a camera with 720p resolution, integrated Wi-Fi, USB ports for connecting Flash drives and an Intel-based processor with a proprietary software shell.
In a unique twist, it's the first third-party product in the world capable of driving video to it via Apple's Airplay. Lots of companies use AirPlay to drive wireless audio, but, up until now, only Apple's own iPads and iPhones (and MacBooks) could send wireless video to an Apple TV connected to an HDTV display. But Polymedia has integrated wireless audio and video to its FlipBox without an Apple TV — it receives it natively, and wirelessly.
We shot a video of it via rAVe NOW at the ISE 2013 show last month in Amsterdam. You can watch it here: http://bit.ly/UKLcpV
You can see the company details here: http://www.flipbox.ru/index_en.html
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Peerless-AV Launches Technology Division New wireless solutions were previewed to visitors at ISE in Amsterdam as Peerless-AV announced the formation of the Peerless-AV Technology Division, dedicated to advanced digital content delivery solutions for the commercial and residential markets.
The new division will focus on the company’s technology portfolio, to cover new areas such as wireless connectivity, wireless broadcast, digital audio and touch products, to provide a comprehensive catalog of digital content delivery tools for AV dealers, distributors, integrators and installers.
A selection of these new products was shown by Peerless-AV for the first time in Europe at ISE last month. This included the HD Flow Pro Wireless Multimedia Kit, a device allowing Full HD 1080p video and passive 3D signals to be streamed up to 40 meters to HDTVs, projectors or other displays without cabling and the PeerAir Wireless HD Multimedia System, an HDMI interface-based plug-and-play wireless content streaming system for home entertainment, corporate, education and training applications.
The division is equipped with its own engineering, product development, product management, field applications engineering and customer care staff as well as select manufacturing capabilities and testing facilities for all products.
Here are all the wireless products: http://www.peerless-av.com/en-us/professional/product_categories/Wireless_Solutions
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Share Article Back to Top Barco Adds Three New Features to ClickShare ClickShare’s new dual display functionality means when two displays are connected to the ClickShare Base Unit, the latter will automatically activate ‘Dual display mode’ and show the content on both screens.
This is especially useful for businesses with a video conferencing system: When they don’t use the video conferencing mode, they can now present information (PowerPoint, MS-Excel spreadsheet, etc.) on two screens.
On top of this dual display functionality, two more features that had been announced at ClickShare’s official launch will soon be available: ClickShare’s full compatibility with an iPad — via Apple TV or HDMI to DVI video cable — and audio.
Details are here: http://www.barco.com/en/products-solutions/presentation-collaboration/clickshare-presentation-system/wireless-presentation-and-collaboration-system.aspx
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Share Article Back to Top Hitachi Unveils Broad Range Of Installation LCD Projectors Hitachi Digital Media launches six new LCD projectors for installation environments. The models, say the maker, feature a contemporary design and deliver substantial improvements in performance, flexible installation, connectivity and most importantly, total cost of ownership.
To deal with the high demands of installation environments Hitachi has also launched a family of optional lenses to accompany these new installation models. The lenses cover a wide range of projection distances and lens shifts, enabling them to adapt to the available space.
The intuitive motorized vertical and horizontal lens shift mechanism provides fast and efficient installation; users can easily adjust images ± 50 percent horizontally and up to 60 percent vertically. This functionality is designed for theaters and conference suites that require continuous changes to projection set-ups. When stacked, users can achieve double brightness levels. This unique set up also acts as a fail-safe operation mode; if one projector fails the other will continue to operate unaffected.
The 6,000 ANSI Lumen color light output of the CP-X8160 means that users have great scope to project large but bright images in all environments. There are six models with an assortment of resolutions and brightness levels. The CP-X8150 and CP-X8160 offer XGA resolution, while the CP-WX8240 and the CP-WX8255 provide WXGA wide screen format. The CP-WU8440 and CP-WU8450 deliver WUXGA resolution.
There is also the ability to project the same image on up to 12 projectors simultaneously using the multi-projector facility. In addition the Crestron RoomView software provides a custom configurable interface to monitor, manage and control every device in every room remotely from any computer.
The new models feature a 5,000-hour lamp life and a hybrid filter that operates for up to 15,000 hours under normal operating conditions.
The CP-X8160 and the CP-WX8255 offer a 360-degree vertical tilt angle, enabling users to project downwards onto a floor or upwards onto a ceiling. Both the CP-X8160 and CP-WX8255 also contain a superior three-layer hybrid filter lasting up to a remarkable 20,000 hours. These models also cater for an increased environmental operating temperature range of 0 ~ 45C. All models are now able to operate at 10,000 feet or 3048 meters.
While not intended for actual medical diagnosis applications, the medical industry-standard DICOM simulation mode is available on all models for the accurate reproduction of greyscale levels. It is a feature for viewing medical images such as X-rays in training and educational environments.
Here are all the specs: http://www.hitachidigitalmedia.com/pressRelease.do?actionName=loadPressText&id=507&language=dk&country=DK#
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Epson Intros $429 and $359 2,700-Lumen Projectors Epson's new VS-series (The V stands for Value) projectors include two models so far. The VS220 ($359) and VS320 ($429) offer SVGA and XGA resolution, respectively, and deliver high performance with 2,700 lumens (non-ANSI) of color brightness and 2,700 lumens of white brightness. They also offer HDMI connectivity for high-quality audio and video with one cable.
The VS220 and VS320 offer easy-to-use connectivity and control features, including USB Plug ‘n Play for instantly projecting video and audio from a PC or Mac computer via a USB connection, as well as automatic vertical keystone correction for easy image alignment and fast setup. The VS320 offers additional features, including a horizontal easy-slide control bar for enhanced image correction, allowing for a rectangular image from any angle, as well as an A/V Mute slide which stops the sound and picture to allow for a quick pause in the presentation.
The new VS models also feature Direct Power On and Off for wall switch power control and Instant Off which instantly powers the projector on and off with no cool down time. Inputs include HDMI and VGA.
Here are all the specs of the 220: http://www.epson.com/cgi-bin/Store/jsp/Product.do?BV_UseBVCookie=yes&sku=V11H592020
Here are the specs of the 320: http://www.epson.com/cgi-bin/Store/jsp/Product.do?BV_UseBVCookie=yes&sku=V11H429420
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Share Article Back to Top Barco Buys Wireless Company AWIND Without much fan fair, Barco bought one of the leading wireless transmission (wireless high-resolution video and audio) company today for $7.1 million dollars. AWIND, based in Taiwan, was founded in 2003 and employs about 60 people. Currently, it's the technology that's used in the majority of the projector manufacturers that do wireless video and audio transmission (e.g., EPSON, Sharp and Sony). AWIND's wireless transmission system includes its own branded "black box" hardware, embedded firmware, wireless networking and software for Windows, Mac, Mobile and Linux. The system supports resolutions up 2048×1536. You may also know AWIND from its USB dongle called WiGA, which allows for video and audio from a Mac or PC via a USB port to a projector or HDTV: http://www.awindinc.com/products_wiga_wga_120.html
Obviously Barco will leverage AWIND for its ClickShare strategy. This is a good move for Barco since well over 65 percent of the wireless video and audio transmission systems (without Apple's AirPlay) on the market are using the AWIND technology.
If you want to see all the products AWIND makes, go here: http://www.awindinc.com/products_all.html
Here is where you can see Barco's ClickShare: http://www.barco.com/clickshare
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Share Article Back to Top Extron Announces New DVI Signal Regenerator and Audio Extender with EDID Extron's new DVI 110 Plus is a DVI signal regenerator and audio extender with EDID Minder. The DVI 110 Plus retimes and reshapes marginal or noisy DVI-D signals at the source, ensuring a strong, stable digital signal. It also accepts unbalanced computer stereo audio and converts it to balanced line level stereo audio, eliminating noise usually associated with unbalanced audio over long cable runs. The DVI 110 Plus features EDID Minder, which maintains continuous EDID communication with the source and ensures proper video output even if the display device is off. The DVI 110 Plus is available in Decora-style and AAP form factors, and is ideal for improving system performance by eliminating signal noise and reducing jitter at the output of the source.
The DVI 110 Plus can be used in conjunction with an Extron DVI 101 or HDMI 101 Plus cable equalizer to ensure optimal picture quality on a long cable run. It can also be used with DVI or HDMI products equipped with input cable equalization, such as the Extron SMX HDMI and DVI Pro matrix boards, or DXP Series and DMS Series digital matrix switchers.
Here are all the specs: http://www.extron.com/product/product.aspx?id=dvi110plus&s=5
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New InFocus Projectors Designed for Large Venues InFocus' new DLP projector is the IN5550, which is aimed at larger venues. Specified at 8,300 lumens, this is the brightest projector InFocus has ever offered. The company isn't really known as an install projector provider — in fact, InFocus is known to have bought and destroyed an install-brand: Proxima.
The IN5550 offers two lamps, motorized lens shift and 360-degree projection and image blending, which lets users project separate images from multiple projectors, creating one stunning seamless image. The projectors also come with two easily replaceable color wheels. The “Presentation” color wheel delivers rich colors with high brightness and the “Cinema Correct” color wheel provides precise RGB and CMYK color control.
Inputs includes VGA, 3G-SDI, HDMI 1.4, DVI-D, five BNC (RGBHV, YpbPr), as well as RS232 and Ethernet control. It also offers a wired remote, which allows users to run a small cable up to 100 feet and plug directly into the remote control that ships with the unit. The IN5550 Series offers six interchangeable lenses ranging from short throw to ultra-long throw. These bayonet-style lenses can be switched with the touch of a button and adjusted with motorized lens shift to precisely position your image. When the preferred position is achieved, it can be saved in one of 10 memory locations.
The IN5550 Series comes in three models: the IN5552L, IN5554L and IN5555L, which feature native resolutions of XGA, WXGA and WUXGA, respectively. Here are all the specs: http://www.infocus.com/projectors/large-venue-projectors/infocus-in5550-projector-series
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Share Article Back to Top Digital Projection's HIGHlite 330-3D Ships Digital Projection International is shipping its HIGHlite Cine 330-3D projectors. These new 3-chip DLPs are available in two models: the high contrast HIGHlite Cine 330-3D-HC (spec'd at 3,000 lumens and greater than 20,000:1 contrast) and the high brightness HIGHlite Cine 330-3D (spec'd at 5,500 lumens). Listing at $29,995, the new HIGHlite Cine 330-3D includes HDMI 1.4a compatibility and 10-bit color to home theaters and higher ed theater rooms.
Both models include a lens shift range of 120 percent vertical and 30 percent horizontal, and have two HDMI inputs, as well as RGB via D-15, component, composite and S-Video inputs. They have multiple lens options, including 0.77 and 1.16:1 fixed lenses, as well as zoom lenses with throw ratios ranging from 1.45 – 6.76:1.
The 330-3D-HC can be found here, while the 330-3D is found here. |
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Share Article Back to Top Extron Intros High Performance Shielded Twisted Pair Cable for XTP Systems and DTP Series Products Extron has announced its new 24 AWG shielded twisted pair cable for Extron XTP Systems and DTP Series products. XTP DTP 24 cable is engineered to Extron’s exacting standards of performance and is certified to 475 MHz bandwidth at distances up to 330 feet (100 meters). The cable utilizes an SF/UTP Shielded Foil/Unshielded Twisted Pair design for superior performance in digital video and audio distribution system applications, and features 24 AWG solid copper conductors within overall braid and foil shields. Both Non-Plenum and Plenum-rated versions are available in spools of 1,000 feet (305 meters). To ensure end-to-end cable infrastructure performance, a line of matching shielded RJ-45 plugs, punch down jacks, and couplers is also available.
XTP DTP 24 Cable is available in Plenum and Non-Plenum versions, in 1,000 foot (305 m) spools with self-dispensing packaging. XTP DTP 24 RJ-45 Plugs, Punch Down Jacks and Couplers are sold in packages of 10.
Here are all the specs: http://www.extron.com/product/product.aspx?id=xtpdtp24&s=5
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Share Article Back to Top TouchSystems to Launch InspiraTouch Tables at DSE TouchSystems' new InspiraTouch is a new line of interactive touch tables that includes two models: the InspiraTable and the InspiraPoint. InspiraTable is just the touch table, i.e., the display and the enclosure. InspiraPoint includes not only the touch table, but also multi-touch software and an optional PC for a complete multi-touch solution. Both of the 1920×1080 tables are available 42" and a 55" sizes and they company hinted to us that it might have a larger size coming by InfoComm. They have both HDMI and DVI-D inputs.
The touch tables are integrated with an infrared multi-touch technology that allows up to forty touch points. The tables also boast advanced anti-image sticking technology that eliminates ghosting and SmartPower, an energy-saving feature that can cut energy costs by up to fifty percent.
Here are all the specs: http://www.touchsystems.com/products.aspx?product=InspiraTable42
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Share Article Back to Top SI Ships FlexGlass Flexible Rear-Projection Screen Material Screen Innovations' new FlexGlass is a flexible rear-projection screen material that claims to offer all of the benefits of the best rigid optical panels with the benefit of custom and curve capabilities that can only be achieved with a flexible screen material. With edge-blend capability and claiming a zero hotspot with infinite viewing angles (and the ability to be rolled on a two-foot core) FlexGlass is aimed at multiple-projector, edge blending, and short throw projector applications.
See how FlexGlass works here: http://www.screeninnovations.com/screen-materials/flexglass-rear-pro/ |
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Share Article Back to Top Middle Atlantic Intros Mobile Videoconferencing Cart Middle Atlantic Products has announced its new VTC Series Mobile Videoconferencing & Presentation Cart System. Designed with generous equipment mounting space, the VTC Series is a versatile mobile cart system for videoconferencing and presentation applications.
The VTC Series supports single screens up to 80” or dual large screens up to 70”, and can support up to 250 pounds in screen weight. Its welded steel frame is UL Listed, tip and weight tested.
The VTC Series was designed with up to 15 total rackspaces. It also offers the company’s patent-pending Lever Lock tool-free mounting system. The Lever Lock plate, ideal for Codecs, media extenders, power supplies and other small devices, is easy to install and service, according to Middle Atlantic.
The VTC cart’s base features rackmount space for heavier components, such as UPS systems that offer point of use protection. The lower frame provides four rackspaces that are ideal mounting for switchers and processors, and can accommodate tower-style PCs.
A removable 12-space rack frame option is available, and allows for easy pre-staging, integration and maintenance access. Also available are storage drawer, work surface and speaker shelf options.
For more information about the VTC Series, click here: http://www.middleatlantic.com/sec/VTC_Products_Page.htm
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Share Article Back to Top BOXLIGHT Intros ProjectoWrite6 Series BOXLIGHT has announced the release of its ProjectoWrite6, the latest addition to its interactive projector line, which features LightPen Dual User annotation software and wireless display capabilities.
It uses a 90 FPS CMOS Camera, and system-on-chip technology. The included SP6 driver allows users to take advantage of touch functions within Windows 7 and 8, and for dual person annotation at the projected image.
The P6 interactive projector does not require a USB cable (between projector and computer) for annotation and control. It ships with a 2.4 GHz interactive Wi-Fi dongle, allowing for complete PC control at the projected image. In addition, the ProjectoWrite6 features PC-less presentations through the addition of a USB input, allowing for 1.5G of internal storage. The initial release includes two versions;
- ProjectoWrite6 WX31NST: WXGA, 3,100 lumen, short throw interactive
- ProjectoWrite6 X32N: XGA, 3,200 lumen, standard throw interactive
Display content, including video or audio direct from your computer to your projector with EZ Wi-Fi LAN software (a free download) via USB to mini-USB, or the LAN connection of the projector and your network.
The EZ Display App for Android and iOS devices allows wireless display from a mobile device. Connect to your Dropbox account to display content, view web pages and annotate over the image. Additionally, the Wi-Fi USB Dongle allows for wireless connection of up to four devices.
The ProjectoWrite6 ships standard with side changing lamp and filter for easy access and with newly advanced optics, the contrast ratio has increased from 600:1 up to 3000:1. Multiple anti-theft features come standard and the projector has seven different display modes, logo capture and image freeze, along with an on-board 10 watt speaker bringing quality audio to presentations. In addition, the ProjectoWrite6 qualifies for BOXLIGHT’s “Lamps for Life” lamp warranty program and is TAA compliant.
The list prices are $2,036 for X32N and $2,714 for the WX31NST. BOXLIGHT says the projectors will ship soon. For more information, click here: http://www.boxlight.com/Products?search=ProjectoWrite6
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Share Article Back to Top Extron Announces New EDID Emulator for HDMI Extron introduced the EDID 101H, an EDID Emulator for HDMI signal sources. It features EDID Minder, an Extron exclusive technology that automatically manages EDID communication between connected devices. Pre-stored EDID is communicated to the source based on a user-selected resolution and refresh rate. Alternatively, the EDID 101H can be set to capture and store EDID information when connected to a display. A unique HPD (Hot Plug Detect) port provides control for remote cameras and other signal sources that require a periodic HPD trigger.
The EDID 101H joins the EDID 101 Series of EDID emulators, which includes the EDID 101D for DVI and the EDID 101V for VGA signals. The EDID 101H is housed in a compact 1" high, quarter rack width metal enclosure for convenient, discreet installation. An energy-efficient external universal power supply is included.
Here are all the specs: http://www.extron.com/product/product.aspx?id=edid101h&s=5
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Share Article Back to Top BenQ Debuts New 4K Lumen HD Projector BenQ's new SH940 is a native 1920x1080p resolution DLP projector that's specified at 4,000 lumens and a contrast ratio of 50,000:1. Included with horizontal and vertical lens shift, 2D keystone correction and throw ratios of up to 2.43, the SH940 is aimed at both home theater applications since it includes an HDMI ports and a VGA port in addition to a set of five BNC (RGBHV) for connecting systems the old-fashioned way.
For IT managers maintaining facility-wide installations, features such as scheduling, monitoring, email alerts and control of multiple A/V gear are all provided through an intuitive user interface to make maintenance easier. With a LAN control feature, the SH940 also provides support for Crestron, SNMP, PJLink, and AMX systems, enabling remote management and control in addition to projector maintenance from workstations.
To reduce energy costs, power-saving features such as an "Eco Blank Mode" allow presenters to blank out the projection screen whenever the projector is not in use, while a standby mode will lower power consumption to less than 0.5W while the SH940 is inactive. Lamp replacement has also been made extra easy with access from the side or top of the projector while a filter-free optical system and BenQ's no color decay further reduces the TCO of the device.
The SH940 is shipping now and lists for $3,999. You can see all the specs at: http://www.BenQ.us
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Share Article Back to Top Almo A/V Opens Registration for 2013 E4 Tour Almo Professional A/V, in partnership with InfoComm International, announced recently that all 12 of its educational courses on the 2013 E4 AV training and networking tour are now worth InfoComm CTS Renewal Units (RUs). Registration is open for the first two E4 events of the year, taking place in Chicago on March 28 and San Francisco on April 25.
“As we enter our fourth year of traveling around the country for the E4 AV tour, our mission remains the same: to offer our partner community local access to free educational training so they may get the business, technical and practical knowledge they need to lead their companies in the right direction,” said Melody Craigmyle, vice president of marketing for Almo Professional A/V. “We are reaffirming this mission and taking it a step further by making every one of our courses worth CTS renewal units. With a keynote and classes running on three different tracks throughout the day, attendees will walk away from any session at this influential event with new information as well as professional AV credit.”
The events will feature hundreds of products from more than 30 carefully selected manufacturers, including AMX, Canon, Chief, Hitachi, Mitsubishi, NEC, LG, Panasonic, Planar, Premier Mounts, Samsung, ZeeVee and more. The spring E4 tour will provide a rare opportunity for attendees to have a sneak peek at new products that will be officially unveiled at the InfoComm show in Orlando in June.
E4 Chicago will include hourly 30-minute demos of the new Samsung Smart School Solution, a fully integrated, interactive learning platform that empowers educators and helps re-engage K12 students with Samsung GALAXY Note 10.1 tablets and interactive whiteboard displays. The Smart School Solution provides teachers with the ability to lead interactive lessons and real-time group activities through its convenient screen and content sharing features while delivering learning management tools that enable students to access course materials and information, as well as school notices and forums, through their tablets.
Gary Kayye, founder of rAVe Publications, will kick off E4 with a keynote address based on his popular “Kayye’s Krystal Ball” annual column that outlines industry trends affecting resellers, manufacturers and integrators. The full Chicago E4 educational schedule will be broken down into the following tracks to help attendees navigate their way through the day:
Emerging Technology:
- Predicting A/V Futures with Kayye’s Krystal Ball LIVE (1 CTS RU): Gary Kayye, rAVe Publications
- Assessing Network Readiness for AV Systems (1.5 CTS RU): Paul Streffon, InfoComm International
- Digital Signage 201 for Integrators (1 CTS RU): Gary Kayye, rAVe
- Designing for Optimum Image Quality (1 CTS RU): Paul Streffon, InfoComm International
Technical Knowledge: - An Overview of Interactive Display Technology and Application (1 CTS RU): Brian Minchew, C2G
- Video Walls: A Start to Finish Guide for Success (1 CTS RU): Dave Gentile, NEC Display
- Managing and Troubleshooting HDCP (1 CTS RU): Melissa Dillman, Kramer Electronics
- HD Video & Digital Signage Distribution Over Simple Coax (1 CTS RU): Roy Bertlalotto, ZeeVe
Business Savvy: - How to Play in the IT Sandbox with A/V Installations (1 CTS RU): Jonathon Brawn, Brawn Consulting
- Integration of the Mobile Device in AV (1 CTS RU): Alan Brawn and Jonathan Brawn, Brawn Consulting
- Connectivity Buzzwords Decoded (1 CTS RU): Alan Brawn and Jonathan Brawn, Brawn Consulting
- The Inside Track on Displays: Fact Not Fiction (1 CTS RU): Alan Brawn and Jonathan Brawn, Brawn Consulting
E4 Chicago is on March 28 at the Oakbrook Drury Lane Conference Center and E4 San Francisco is on April 25 at the South San Francisco Conference Center. Both run from 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. and are entirely free, including parking, to Almo Pro A/V’s reseller, integrator and consultant partners. To register, go to http://www.e4avtour.com/. The E4 AV program can be accessed on demand during and after each event for instructor videos, copies of the course presentations and live Twitter updates.
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Share Article Back to Top Extron Now Shipping Select DMP 128 Audio DSP Models with Dante Extron is shipping the DMP 128 AT and DMP 128 C AT audio digital signal processors with Dante network connectivity from Audinate. Both DMP 128 models are 12×8 audio mixers featuring Extron ProDSP, automixing and I/O expansion capabilities. The DMP 128 C AT version also features AEC — acoustic echo cancellation. DMP 128 AT models feature a 56 input by 24 output expansion matrix, providing efficient scalability for creating larger audio matrices over a local area network using standard Internet Protocols. A built-in four-port Gigabit switch provides direct interconnection of multiple DMP 128 AT units. The award-winning DMP 128 Series offers a configuration approach to DSP that simplifies mixing, routing, conferencing and room optimization. Quick and intuitive configuration using the DSP Configurator Software allows the DMP 128 to be installed in very little time, with easy-to-learn adjustments that can be heard in real-time.
DMP 128 AT models provide scalable audio transport over a local area network using standard Internet protocols. Each processor sends out 24 channels of 24-bit/48 kHz digital audio and can receive 56 channels over the network. A built-in four-port Gigabit switch also provides direct interconnection of multiple DMP 128 AT units to create larger, cost-effective audio matrixes. Dante technology distributes a virtually unlimited 512×512 audio channels at 24-bit/48 kHz over a single Gigabit Ethernet link, or 48×48 audio channels at 24-bit/48 kHz over a single 100 Mbps Ethernet link, plus integrated control data with extremely low latency. Both Dante and the DMP 128 AT processor's four-port switch are AVB – Audio Video Bridging ready.
The DMP 128 features Extron ProDSP, engineered from the ground up using a powerful 64-bit floating point DSP engine and studio grade 24-bit converters with 48 kHz sampling. ProDSP is managed by the intuitive DSP Configurator Software, featuring an easy-to-use GUI that allows for complete audio system visualization within a single window. All DMP 128 models include an automixer with gated and gain sharing modes for managing up to eight groups of microphone signals. Select DMP 128 processors feature Extron AEC with eight independent channels of high performance, fast echo cancellation for optimal intelligibility in conferencing applications.
Here are the specs: http://www.extron.com/company/article.aspx?id=dmp128ad&s=sl01
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Share Article Back to Top Extron Expands HDMI Distribution Amplifier Lineup Extron has introduced two new, larger HDMI distribution amplifiers as part of its HDMI DA Series product line. The HDMI DA4 with four outputs, and HDMI DA6 with six outputs, are HDCP compliant and support HDMI specification features including data rates up to 6.75 Gbps, 12-bit Deep Color, 3D, Lip Sync and HD lossless audio formats. They also support HDTV 1080p/60 and PC resolutions up to 1920×1200. For ease of integration and reliable operation, the HDMI DA Series features two Extron technologies: EDID Minder, which maintains continuous EDID communication between connected devices, and Key Minder, which continuously authenticates HDMI encryption between all devices, ensuring the simultaneous distribution of source content to connected displays.
To enhance and simplify integration, the HDMI DA Series offers features including automatic input cable equalization, automatic color bit depth management and selectable output muting, as well as 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 DA Series 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 amplifiers provide immediate visual confirmation of EDID status, HDCP authentication, and signal presence confirmation for each port via front panel LED indicators.
Here are all the stats: http://www.extron.com/product/product.aspx?id=hdmidaseries&s=5
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Share Article Back to Top Delta Displays Introduces Innovative WX21 and WX31 Megapixel Displays Delta Products is launching the WX21 and WX31 WideXtreme (WX) megapixel displays that Delta claims can be assembled in under an hour and calibrated in seconds using Mersive's auto-calibrating Sol software. In addition to integrating Mersive's Sol software, the WX series displays are also the first displays to ship with Mersive's Solstice software, a new application that allows multiple users to access and share the display simultaneously using laptops and mobile devices over an existing IP network. Delta’s WX displays effectively solve two of the most common problems found in nearly all conference rooms today: the lack of cost effective beyond HD display systems, and collaborative software to connect, control, and share. Here are all the stats: http://www.delta-americas.com/displaysolutions/products/WX-Series-Displays/
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Share Article Back to Top Extron Now Shipping Three-Input, Compact, HDCP-Compliant Scaler Extron is now shipping its new DSC 301 HD, a compact HDCP-compliant video scaler. This scaler has an HDMI input, a configurable high resolution analog input, a composite video input and an HDMI output. Featuring an advanced scaling engine with 30-bit processing and 1080i deinterlacing, the DSC 301 HD delivers uncompromised picture quality for output resolutions up to 1920×1200, including 1080p and 2K. It includes EDID Minder, automatic input switching and simplifies system connections by embedding audio from one of the three stereo inputs onto the HDMI output.
The DSC 301 HD offers several features that enhance and simplify AV system setup and operation. For HDMI signals with protected content, Key Minder authenticates and maintains continuous HDCP encryption between input sources and displays to ensure quick and reliable switching. EDID Minder ensures that the display's capabilities are communicated to connected video sources to obtain an optimal image. Front panel controls, intuitive on-screen menus, plus USB and RS-232 connections provide flexible control and monitoring capability.
To view a product video and for more information, please visit http://www.extron.com/dsc301hdpr
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Share Article Back to Top Panasonic Ships New Solid Shine Series of LED/Laser Projectors Panasonic told rAVe today that its new SOLID SHINE Series of lamp-free projectors with DIGITAL LINK technology are already shipping. The LED/laser light source in the SOLID SHINE Series of one-chip DLP projectors is specified with a 20,000 hours light-source life span. All models in the series are spec'd to deliver 3,500 lumens of brightness. Integrated with a DIGITAL LINK terminal, and by combining an optional interface box with its HDMI and other input terminals, a user can transmit uncompressed HD digital video, audio and control signals (Ethernet, RS-232C) for up to 100 meters (328 feet) through a single CAT5e cable.
DIGITAL LINK is an original function added to technology based on the transmission standards used in Crestron’s DigitalMedia 8G+ and Extron’s XTP Systems, as well as others. Signals from the ET-YFB100G Digital Interface Box can also be relayed to a non-DIGITAL LINK-ready projector by using another manufacturer’s equipment based on the same technology.
The PT-RZ470/RZ370 Series projectors offer installation flexibility, with a 2x zoom, wide lens shift capability, HDMI/DVI digital inputs and Crestron RoomView compatibility. The PT-RZ470 Series offers additional flexibility with portrait mode projection capability, as well as edge blending, color matching and 3D.
The PT-RZ370 Series, which includes the PT-RZ370U (1920×1080) and PT-RW330U (1280×800), are available immediately and list for $5,899 and $4,599, respectively. The PT-RZ470 Series, which includes the PT-RZ470UK/UW (1920×1080) and PT-RW430UK/UW (1280×800) will be available in March and will list for $6,799 and $5,499, respectively.
Here are all the specs: http://panasonic.com/business/projectors/
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Share Article Back to Top Extron Ships Six-Input, HDCP-Compliant Scaling Presentation Switcher Extron Electronics is shipping the IN1606, a six-input, HDCP-compliant video scaler that includes four HDMI inputs, two universal analog video inputs and two simultaneous HDMI outputs. The IN1606 accepts a wide variety of video formats including HDMI, HDTV, RGB and standard definition video. Its video scaling engine features 1080i deinterlacing, Deep Color processing and seamless switching with support for up to 1920×1200 and 2K output resolutions. Enhanced audio features include six stereo inputs, fixed and variable stereo outputs, two mic/line inputs with ducking and 48 V phantom power, plus HDMI audio embedding and de-embedding. The IN1606 also offers a complete AV switching system with flexible control options including Ethernet, RS-232, and USB.
To enhance and simplify integration, the IN1606 features SpeedSwitch Technology, which Extron says provides exceptional switching speed for HDCP-encrypted content. EDID Minder and Key Minder automatically manage EDID communication and HDCP key negotiation between input and output devices to ensure reliable operation. The IN1606 also provides immediate visual confirmation and real-time HDCP status verification.
With HDMI audio embedding and de-embedding, the IN1606 can insert analog input audio signals onto the HDMI output or extract embedded HDMI audio signals. Audio breakaway allows the analog audio channels to be separated from corresponding video signals so that the audio channels can operate as an independent switcher. The IN1606 also provides control of advanced audio configuration settings, such as audio gain, attenuation, mixing and ducking.
For more information, click here: http://www.extron.com/in1606pr.
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Share Article Back to Top Polycom Ships SoundStation Connect with USB Polycom's new SoundStation Connect plugs directly into any laptop or desktop USB port, letting users of soft-phone apps such as Polycom RealPresence Desktop 2.0, Microsoft Lync, Skype or IBM Sametime get HD-quality audio conferencing technology for small-group meetings in the office, at home or when traveling.
Benefits of the SoundStation Connect include:
- Clear conversations: Polycom Voice technology reduces background noise, echo, and feedback, while microphone pickup covers more than 7 feet in diameter
- Easy to deploy with broad interoperability: Plug-and-play with no software driver needed, the device runs on USB power and works with any UC soft-phone app running on computers that support USB audio
- Easy to use and transport: The ultra-simple UI with volume up, down and mute makes it easy for anyone to use
Polycom SoundStation Connect will be available in Q2 2013 and will list for $299. Here are the specs: http://www.polycom.com/products-services/voice/conferencing-solutions/conferencing-phones/soundstation-connect.html
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Share Article Back to Top BenQ Launches New Entry-Line of Projectors BenQ's new entry-level M6 Series MS616ST, MX618ST, MX662 and MW663 models are spec'd at contrast ratios of 13,000:1 and up to 3,500 ANSI lumens of brightness. They also include BenQ's SmartEco technology to cut energy consumption by up to 70 percent. Designed for corporate, classroom and personal spaces, the MS616ST (SVGA) and MX618ST (XGA) are short-throw projectors offering wireless connectivity for "Bring Your Own Device" (BYOD) scenarios. The higher brightness versions are the MX662 (XGA projector spec'd at 3,500 ANSI lumens) and the MW663 (a WXGA wide-screen projector spec'd at 3,000 ANSI lumens).
One interesting feature is that the BenQ M6 Series features wireless display options for cable-free connection to content sources. When paired with BenQ's Qpresenter app for the iPhone and iPad, users can transfer files from their handheld iOS devices directly to the projection screen. What makes them green is that BenQ's SmartEco technology allows users the same brightness, features and performance at a lower total cost of ownership (TCO). For instance, in "Smart Eco" mode, projectors automatically adjust lamp power by up to 70 percent in order to use just the right amount of brightness needed. The result is an 6,500 hours of lamp life without any compromise to picture quality, according to BenQ. To further reduce power consumption, an "Eco Blank" mode allows teachers or presenters to blank out the screen whenever projection isn't needed while a "No Source Detected" mode automatically lowers brightness to 30 percent when no display has been detected for more than three minutes. An audio pass through function also preserves lamp life by enabling only sound when projectors are on standby.
Available now, the BenQ MS616ST, MX618ST, MX662 and MW663 retail at $699, $899, $799, and $799 respectively. Here they are: http://www.benq.us/products/product_line.cfm?plid=8
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Share Article Back to Top NEC Adds 46-Inch and 52-Inch to Super-Slim Line NEC Display added two super-slim displays to its specialty X Series portfolio in the form of the 46-inch X462S and 55-inch X552S. NEC is calling these "industrial-strength." Using LED backlighting and a mere 1.8 inches deep, the X462S and X552S are not only super-slim and ultra light, but they also deliver a brightness of 700 cd/m².
In addition, these super-slim displays include the Open Pluggable Specification (OPS) slot, a standardization designed to simplify installations, use and maintenance of digital signage. Users receive full connectivity, including DisplayPort, HDMI and DVI-D, as well as remote management through the Network Control and Communication tools.
The X462S and X552S displays include the following features: - LED backlighting technology, which reduces power consumption and contributes to a lightweight design with minimal 1.8-inch depth
- Commercial-grade LCD panel and components, which enable extended run times
- 1920×1080 native resolution, which provides stunning image clarity
- 500/700 cd/m² brightness (typical/maximum) and 3,000:1 contrast ratio delivering brilliant imagery
- DisplayPort, HDMI and DVI-D (in/out), which enable connectivity to a wide range of peripherals
- RS-232C, LAN and DDC/CI for external control
- TileMatrix, which facilitates video walls up to 100 displays in 10×10 configurations
- Optional color-calibration solution, which enables color uniformity and fidelity across individual and multiple screens
- Real-time clock, which has the ability to set schedules for on/off times 24/7 and can be set to warm up 30 minutes before use for optimum color representation
- Built-in ATSC digital tuner
The X462S and X552S are available at minimum advertised prices of $1,999 and $3,099, respectively and are here: http://www.necdisplay.com/category/large-screen-displays
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Share Article Back to Top For all you REGULAR readers of rAVe ED [Education] 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). Don't like us, then go away — unsubscribe! Just use the link below. To send me feedback, don't reply to this newsletter. Instead, write directly to me at gary@ravepubs.com or for editorial ideas, Editor-in-Chief Sara Abrons at sara@ravepubs.com A little about me: I graduated from Journalism School at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill (where I am adjunct faculty). I've been in the AV-industry since 1987 where I started with Extron and eventually moved to AMX. So, I guess I am an industry veteran (although I don't think I am that old). I have been an opinionated columnist for a number of industry publications and in the late 1990s I started the widely read KNews eNewsletter (the first in the AV market) and also created the model for and was co-founder of AV Avenue, which is now known as InfoComm IQ. rAVe [Publications] has been around since 2003, when we launched our original newsletter, rAVe ProAV Edition. Everything we publish is Opt-in — we spam NO ONE! rAVe ProAV Edition is our flagship ePublication with what we believe is a reach of virtually everyone in the ProAV market. rAVe HomeAV Edition, co-published with CEDIA and launched in February 2004, is, by far, the largest ePub in 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 my background, our 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 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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