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Volume 6, Issue 7 — July 11, 2013
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Creative Uses for the Crestron Mobile App
By Scott Tiner rAVe Columnist
Anyone who knows me knows that I love my job. I always tell people that my job is like Christmas every day. If it is not a new product I am learning about, programming or testing out, then it is a problem to solve. Most mornings, I really don’t know what to expect on any given day. Often times I discover new solutions by playing around and using devices and tools in tangential ways to the purpose for which they were designed.
The most success I have had with this type of work is with the Crestron mobile app. I know that several other manufacturers make similar software, and you can likely do this with their software as well. However, in this column I discuss what I have learned with Crestron’s product.
Many people had the same reaction that I did when Crestron introduced the mobile application. It was cool — you could now have a wireless touch panel for under $1,000. It did lack some of the functionality of the full blown touch panels (of course), but was a pretty decent substitute in many situations. I started making one page of a touch panel for every room we set up on campus. This way, if something went wrong with the touch panel, I could whip out my iPhone or iPad and get the room up and running. I thought that was great customer service, and a potential CYA for my staff.
Well, then I realized, that I was using these pages more for troubleshooting than I was for emergency purposes. For example, we get a text message indicating that a presenter is having problems with a projector in a room. (A text message, you say? How do they do that? Well, check out this rAVe article about it from September 2011.) I can take out my iPhone, and look to see the status of that room. I can see EXACTLY what the touch panel in the room looks like. Did they turn the projector on? Did they choose the correct source? If no, then I can fix it immediately. In the past, we could do this from a laptop, or via a rather clunky RoomView web interface. Now, it is right from my phone, which I always have with me.
My interest in this grew. What if the projector was on? What if they had chosen the right source? Is there any way to tell if the switcher was getting a signal? Is there any way to tell if the projector is online? Every time I asked a question, the answer was yes. So, we started developing a technical page that appeared only on the Creston mobile touch panel. This was information that only my techs and I could see, so as not to confuse the user. Now, not only could I see whether the projector was online, I could send it a specific query and see the response in real time. I could see in an instant whether the switcher was getting a sync signal. If there were issues with the volume I could see what the level was at and make sure that the amp was powered on.
These tools became even more powerful as we began to troubleshoot inside a room. We could program any one of the hundreds of feedback items from Crestron equipment and display it on our iPad. For example, all Ethernet-enabled Crestron equipment has an online/offline feedback. We added this feedback to our tech page and now, at a glance, we can tell if there is any equipment offline. If you have done any work with DM, you know how valuable this is, because there can be several pieces of equipment in a single room. If you are running UPS equipment with temperature readings, you can tell internal temps of the rack. A really smart UPS will even allow you to switch off the outlets, in effect rebooting equipment, without pulling a rack out of a closet. These are simply a couple examples of the myriad feedback you can see. Almost every time we build a new room, we add new feedback to the mobile screens.
Our latest discovery is using the mobile app while programming and building a room. As you run into issues, and want to know whether something is working as expected, we don’t have to try and watch the SIMPL debugger. Rather, we have a page on our iPads that shows us all the feedback. This has been really useful in building out rooms with class capture. As we try to set the microphones in the room, the presets on the camera, etc. we can do all of this with our mobile touch panel pages. We have added gauges that show us the UV meter on the Capture HD, along with gain settings on each individual mic in a room. This not only helps us initially configure a room, but also helps us with audio presets for when you get that really quiet or really LOUD speaker in a room. Rather than hauling in a laptop and trying to make the adjustments on individual equipment, we do it in real time while sitting in the room via an iPad.
This is the market for the future. If you are an integrator and have customers that want to control some of these things on their own, but who also could make a real mess of things if they start plugging directly into them, this is a great solution. Give them all the control they could imagine. Every room on their campus, from anywhere in the world! Oh, but remember to include a “reset to defaults” button. That is my favorite for when things get really messed up.
I am really excited to hear from others about how and if they are using this type of technology. Are you doing this in house as a tech manager, or are you an integrator offering these solutions to your customers? What are you doing that I have not even dreamed of yet? I look forward to hearing from you.
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Documentation! …And I Don’t Mean System Documentation
By Jon Chuchla rAVe Blogger
We’ve all read about how important it is for us as integrators to provide good thorough documentation packages for clients on our integration projects. After all, we’re creating something custom and unique for them, and they need to know how it works. I’ve seen various document packages from several integrators, and they’re getting better and better as time goes on.
Why then, are the manufacturers going in the opposite direction? It seems that more and more lately, as new product starts shipping, that the technical documentation is weak or hard to access. I’ve spent the past several days working on a movie theater project for a local university. In this project, I had several newly released products that I was getting to integrate for the first time. There was a new projector series, a new generation of touch panel, a new surround decoder, even a new series of rack. Mind you, I work for a small shop, and I have the benefit of being the designer, engineer and programmer all in one. So I can’t blame anyone but myself for product selection. But who thought there’d be anything wrong? These were all just new products from tried and true manufacturers.
First off, there was the rack. Yeah I know what you’re thinking — “what documentation does a rack need?” How about what’s in the box? Nowhere in the sales literature did it say that it ships with rear rack rails. So of course, being thorough, I made sure to specify rear rack rails in the equipment list. When it arrived, not only were there rear rack rails included, but they were even already installed for me. Now I have an extra box of unneeded rear rails that I paid for, that now need to be returned. So I thought I’d go check the literature again. Nope, it wasn’t there. I went the extra step this time and downloaded and checked the detailed PDF. It wasn’t there in the list of features, but they did show up on the diagrams. Then again, so did other optional, a la carte components. So how was I to know what was included and what wasn’t? This was a fairly small headache, but one that could have been saved with a bit more detail on the manufacturer’s part, we could have saved the time, expense and extra shipping.
Now onto the projector: This new beauty has one of those newfangled HDBaseT ports. Finally, I thought, “The vision of one-wire connectivity has been achieved!” We got it hooked up [to a different manufacturer’s transmitter] and fired up, and voila! A beautiful HD picture quickly showed up on the screen. The next step was to take control of this machine. The sales literature boasted of the built in support for a several manufacturer’s connection standards. So I started sifting through information on the website of the control system vendor (I know better than to try to find tech details on projector manufacturers’ websites) and I found a white paper describing exactly this application. I thought I was all set! This article was divided into two parts, one part talking about setting it up if you didn’t need the projector to communicate with the outside world (thus saving an IP address), and the second part which was much more complex, which explained how to do it and still have it visible to the outside network (but at the expense of autoconfiguration of the control system). Since it didn’t need to see the outside world, and I wanted to save the IP address, I decided the first method was right for me. The problem here, is the white paper didn’t talk at all about what sort of IP settings to use on the projector. So I put in a call to tech support. First of all, it took some time to get the support agent to even find the document on their website that I was reading. Then he had me try some settings that contradicted the document. This was a rather complex process for reasons beyond the scope of this article. But after three hours on the phone trying different settings, reboots, trial and error, and level 2 escalation, we went with the second method in the white paper and things worked. I still am not convinced the first method wouldn’t have worked had there been a configuation example in the document. But I had wasted enough time on it.
Next was the touch panel. This was my first chance to get my hands on this new series of panel. I will admit, that I did not go to a detailed training session on this, so part of this is my own fault. I did watch some intro videos, so I felt confident enough with the workflow and figured that whenever I got stuck, I’ll just hit F1 and it’ll explain the detail. So I set out to do the touch panel design using the new toolchain. While I was very pleased to see all the new power of the new tools and design elements, I was confronted with myriad new settings with names that were’t very self evident. I hit my trusty F1, and got nothing. It did open the help file and took me to a generic page telling me about the new toolchain. But no matter how much I searched, I couldn’t find any chart explaining what these settings actually did. For this manufacturer, this is a real departure from the past. They always used to be very good with documentation. The style may have varied widely, but it was always there, and in fairly good detail. Some of their oldest stuff even included examples right in the help files. Now I was left with two options, tech support, and trial and error. I ended up using a combination of both to get the job done. There were a few instances where a call to tech support would yield a support agent paging thru the same documents I had already read and he was no more educated than I was.
In the end, I did get the project completed successfully. And it was very nicely done. The rack looks beautiful. There’s only one wire going to the projector. The new touch panel looks beautiful and is super responsive. On the other hand, I think I spent about 16 or so hours on this project more than I planned. I suppose this is still less than going to a handful of training courses on non-billable time. But that 16 hours probably could have been trimmed down to four or so if the necessary technical resources actually existed and were available in a usable form. There are people who read those books, and it’s us: the integrators, designers and programmers. A new fancy product with new features is useless if we can’t figure out how to use it. Please keep those documents coming, and make sure they’re available when the product is in our hands!
Jon Chuchla is a blogger for rAVe [Publications].
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Attending InfoComm — Remotely
By Scott Tiner rAVe Columnist
Are you like me, sitting at work wishing you were at InfoComm?
I decided this year that I was going to dedicate half of every work day to InfoComm even though i am not present at the show. Lucky for us, rAVe makes this very easy to do. Frankly, except for the missing out on the networking, in many ways I like this better. I get to see all the cool new stuff, without waiting in line to get a rep, or having to wait 30 minutes in a lunch line. Although, I do miss the Eggs Benedict from the B-Line Diner.
If you are a technology manager, here are some things that I have found that are very interesting for us. Explore the rAVe Pubs site on your own, but certainly check out these links:
Crestron AirMedia
Crestron introduces AirMedia. It seems to be a fantastic product that allows four people to display wirelessly at a time (quad screen), and up to 32 people to display individually. All this at a price tag under $2,000. My only initial hesitation is they do gloss over the fact that software is required to be installed. While this is a slight drawback, if it easy to do, it also provides nice control of who is able to display.
https://www.ravepubs.com/rave-video/infocomm-2013-crestron-explains-airmedia/
Maclocks
Maclocks presented two devices that struck my interest. Both are iPad mounting devices. The first is a table top mount that looks suprisingly like an iMac. It hold the iPad securely in place and allows you to secure it with a cable lock. I am confident some of our industrious colleagues could find a way to secure it directly to a table. My first thought at seeing this product is that it would allow us to use a $600 iPad as a touchpanel. A very cost-effective solution.
The second product is the BrandMe tablet stand. Again, with using an iPad as a touch panel, and display device, you can get your presenter out from behind a podium, while able to control the room, control the presentation, and have a confidence monitor! Check these out!
https://www.ravepubs.com/rave-video/infocomm-2013-maclocks-illuminates-ipad-all-in-one-enclosure/
https://www.ravepubs.com/rave-video/infocomm-2013-maclocks-talks-about-brandme-tablet-stand/
ClearOne ViewPro
I did not realize that ClearOne was in the video business. But I guess that is what these shows are all about. ClearOne presented a new multimedia streaming encoder and decoder. There was no mention of cost, so I am not sure how hot I am on this product yet. But, I am pointing it out because I believe streaming is the future for all of us. The fact that so many companies are getting into it shows we need to start paying attention.
https://www.ravepubs.com/rave-video/infocomm-2013-clearone-mentions-viewpro-multimedia-streaming-encoderdecoder/
Da-Lite, Vaddio and Conferencing
I think we are finally seeing the industry start to adapt to the change we have seen in higher ed over the past several years — away from hardware based conferencing and towards Web-based, software-based, free conferencing. One very cool product, the Da-Lite View Share struck me. It is brilliant in its simplicity! A camera is embedded in the base of a motorized screen. BAM! Instant conferencing! A more utility application, the Quick Connect USB from Vaddio, allows you to take their standard HD cameras and convert it to a USB video output. Again, not show stopping, but a clear indication of where the industry is moving.
https://www.ravepubs.com/rave-video/infocomm-2013-gary-kayye-talks-to-da-lites-melissa-rone-about-viewshare/
https://www.ravepubs.com/vaddio-controller-ptz/
Extron Interview
While at UBTech, Gary had the opportunity to interview Extron Director of Education Programs Tim Schnabel. They covered several education issues, and discussed Extron’s plans for expanding and growing their regional training. My interest though is in the TeamWork product. Extron has again taken a basic need and served it well. That need is for the collaborative “huddle room.” While wireless would be super fancy, it also takes software, and that leads to various issues. Here, Extron goes with good old wired connections, that simply work at the press of a button.
https://www.ravepubs.com/rants-and-raves-episode-135/
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BYOD Collaboration Takes Center Stage
By Chris Chinnock Display Central
One of the most visible themes at this year’s Projection Summit and InfoComm was the emergence of multiple solutions aimed at Bring Your Own Device (BYOD) collaboration. Companies we talked with that are supporting this trend included Barco, Mersive, TideBreak, Christie, Epson, and Mitsubishi – but there are many more. What is clear is that BYOD collaboration in the corporate and education markets is becoming a mainstream force, which is likely to spill over into additional ProAV sectors soon.
At Projection Summit, Mersive teamed up to showcase its Solstice collaboration software coupled to a WX display solution from Delta. This single hardware/software solution includes a PC installed with Mersive’s Solstice software and a display solution from Delta. At Projection Summit, this consisted of two short throw projectors mounted above a very wide aspect ratio screen. A camera mounted in the same area, looks at this screen and runs Mersive warp and blend software, Sol, to align and blend these two overlapped projectors. The image quality looked great.
Solstice was launched in February and a 1.1 update was announced at InfoComm (see my video interview with CTO Chris Jaynes here). Solstice is a sophisticated yet easy to use solution where meeting participants can share content on a common screen sourcing content from their handheld devices, corporate servers, the Internet or even Blu-ray players or video conferencing equipment. Android and iOS devices are supported though wireless connections. There are also a number of modes to govern how content is shared. As Jaynes puts it, “Any collaborative solution must meet three critical requirements: connect, share, control.”
Tidebreak has developed a BYOD package called TeamSpot. At Projection Summit, the company used a Mac mini to create a local area network in the room and CEO Andrew Milne gave his presentation from a tablet. He also asked several company employees to join the demonstration as they all worked together on a spreadsheet in real time.
With roots from Stanford University, the company wants to develop sophisticated full-participation, collaboration tools. To get there, Milne offered a useful definition of collaboration: “A group of interdependent individuals who may have shared or differing goals who must bargain/negotiate to achieve their desired outcome(s).” He then went on to describe the layers of collaboration (conferencing) as:
- Video Conferencing
- Wired Collaboration
- Wireless Collaboration
- Multi-screen Group Meeting Systems
- UC / Remote Collaboration
- Collaboration Apps
To date, each of these modes has typically generated its own hardware and software solutions that were typically not interoperable. Going forward, many users will be looking to tie all of these modes together, which is the need that TeamSpot and the company’s other solution, ClassSpot, seek to address.
The third presenter at Projection Summit was Barco with its ClickShare BYOD solution. This is also a hardware/software package with a hardware box providing the “glue” to connect devices and sources of content in a wired or wireless manner, then output it to any of four different screens. These screens can be discrete devices or blended projectors.
ClickShare is a little more limited than the previous two solutions but it is also dead simple to use. Users for the meeting simply plug in a USB device to their laptop or connect wirelessly to the shared network. A one button “click” brings up your content on the shared screen. Several display modes are available with support for various OS platforms ready this summer.
At InfoComm, one of the more visible announcements came from Christie with its introduction of the Brio platform aimed at BYOD collaboration. The solution requires hardware, but for Windows-based devices, no software is needed as it uses the Projector Network feature that is built into the Windows OS to initiate the collaboration.
Christie has adapted their Phoenix box for BYOD collaboration. Instead of streaming a number of sources over a network, they use the Brio box to encode and share a couple of sources of content between multiple nodes, which can be in the same room or located remotely. Brio allows connection of up to 5 different devices that can be output onto two screens (projectors or flat panels). The five devices can connect wirelessly or by a wire, with the latter providing high quality video capabilities.
This solution is clearly aimed at in-room collaboration as content only for the participants devices can be shared (no external data). This is useful, but may not satisfy all customers’ needs (see video interview here).
Epson takes a different approach choosing to embed a basic processor in their new BrightLink Pro projector. This is aimed at digital white board collaboration, supporting image, movie and some drawing files, but there is no support for Office docs. For that, you need to run the applications on your tablet or laptop, then share it on the screen (see video interview here).
Mitsubishi introduced what it calls a workstation projector that includes a thin client stack in the projector itself. To facilitate sharing of content, they have two apps. One, called SidePad, is a mirror of the device shown on the screen. This reflects interaction on the tablet, phone or PC and is supported on Android and iOS platforms.
A second free app is called Wifi Doc. This connects a mobile device to the projector as long as they are in the same network (see the video interview here).
Sony also said it will have a new BYOD solution that will include several modes including a “moderator” mode that allows for better control of what content is displayed on common screens.
So there you have it. I think you will agree that BYOD collaboration will have an impact on many industries going forward.
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Mersive Debuts Solstice 1.1
Yesterday Mersive announced a new version of Solstice software (version 1.1). Solstice enables multiple users to connect simultaneously to a shared display using a range of devices and applications over an existing Wi-Fi or Ethernet network, which fundamentally changes how people are able to use displays in meeting rooms.
Three key new features of Solstice 1.1 include: the addition of Android devices to Solstice’s supported clients; the highly-anticipated Podium Mode, which gives meeting presenters, moderators and teachers new controls for Solstice sessions; and the ability to integrate with external video sources, such as video conferencing equipment, Blu-ray players, live camera feeds and additional mobile devices supported by the Solstice software.
Go here for all the details.
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Panamax/Furman Introduces Vertex VT-EXT Eight-Outlet Vertical Power Strip for A/V Racks
Panamax/Furman today introduced a new vertical power strip for A/V equipment racks. The Vertex VT-EXT provides integrators with eight outlets (three with transformer spacing), addresses ground loop issues with specialized mounting brackets and simplifies cord management to reduce installation time. The vertical power strip is designed to be used in conjunction with a Panamax/Furman power management unit for providing clean, safe power, further extending Panamax and Furman’s advanced protection and filtration technologies to connected equipment.
The Vertex VT-EXT features mounting clips with plastic spacers that allow the strip to be mounted vertically to an equipment rack while helping to prevent ground loop issues. The unit’s vertical orientation allows integrators to use various length component power cords to save space, eliminate cord clutter and drastically reduce installation time. In addition, the unit features a detachable 10-foot power cord that can easily be swapped out for a shorter cord if desired.
The Vertex VET-EXT can be used as a stand-alone power strip, or as an extension of an existing Panamax/Furman power management component. By plugging the power strip into the Panamax/Furman unit, the company’s protection and filtration technologies will be extended to connected equipment to improve component performance and ensure equipment longevity.
The Vertex VT-EXT is now shipping with a list price of $65 and can be found here.
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Atlas Sound Intros BlueBridge DSP Accessories
Atlas Sound’s new Atlas Sound BlueBridge DSP controllers are a set of rack and wall mount accessories for the BlueBridge platform. The BB-SM1 is a 1RU rack-mountable system manager that allows for third-party control interpretation as well as Web browser control of the BlueBridge system using a PC or mobile device (iOS or Android). The BB-SM1 also includes scheduling and system backup functionality. The BB-EB1616DT is a 1RU rack-mountable expansion box that features 16 inputs and 16 outputs including Dante. The BB-EB1616DT can be as a standalone digital snake in a Dante network. Five wall plates are also being released to support the BlueBridge platform allowing integrators the ability to offer their customers remote and preconfigured control over system settings.
BB-SM1 System Manager
The BBWP-K1B allows control of any single value change preset by the integrator including gain, threshold and frequency adjustment. The BBWP-S4K1B is a four-button controller with level control that can be used to change any four preset selections and control any single value change. The BBWP-K4B is a four-button controller with level control that can be used to change any four preset selections and control any four-value changes. The BBWP-S8B is an eight-button controller that can be used to change preset selections. Finally, the BBWP-S4B is a four-button controller that can be used to change any four preset selections. The Atlas Sound BBWP-TOUCH7 is a custom PoE 7″ Touch Screen that can be customized to control any function using the BlueBridge software. An integrator can easily turn this touch panel into a multi source or zone volume control, allow for muting capabilities of installed hardware, or create a mixer that can adjust the system on the fly. All wall plates and touch panels are additionally available in a white finish.
Here are the details.
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Extron Introduces New Media Presentation Switcher with DTP Extension
Extron’s new MPS 602 is 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. In addition, the MPS 602 includes a selectable DTP 230 twisted pair or HDMI output. 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.
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 Talk Over feature automatically reduces program audio when it detects a microphone signal, replacing the need for a separate, standalone 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 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 details.
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Atlas Sound Debuts Line of Half-Rack Products
Atlas Sound has a new line of half width rack equipment cabinets to be sold under the Atlas Racks brand. These new products are designed to save space and make rack equipment easier to ship to installers in the field. You may recall that Extron and Middle Atlantic first announced the half-rack standard back in late 2011,so now there are two rack mount companies making half-rack racks.
These WMA half racks, models WMA12-19-HR and WMA16-19-HR, are wall mounted racks designed for mounting of half rack width components or vertical mounting of 19″ standard rack width components. And, both of them feature a unique, patent pending swing down design that enables an integrator or contactor to access the back of the rack for easy connection and wire management of installed components. A selection of blank panels, fans, doors, and vertical mounting adaptors will also be available for use in the WMA half rack products. Atlas is also releasing 2 half-rack models in the popular AWR Series, models AWR2-HR and AWR3-HR. This convenient access, lock-in security, and welded models can be surface or recessed mounted. Both AWR models are designed to install within standard 16″ stud wall construction, reducing installation time and the need to cut and repair dry wall.
You can see them all here.
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Christie Debuts New 55″ LCD with Gorilla Glass
Here at InfoComm, Christie is launching the next generation of its Jumpstart and a new 55″ video wall using multiple FHD551-X — a 55″ LCD made with Corning Gorilla Glass, and the company’s first multi-touch video wall solution. An industry first with what Christie says is the smallest image-to-image gap of any bonded LCD monitor, the Christie Multi-touch Video Wall Solution comprises a 4-unit wide by 1-unit high row of portrait-mounted 55-inch LCD panels with bonded Corning Gorilla Glass, Christie Interactivity Kit, Christie Jumpstart, and the mounting hardware for a wall-mounted or freestanding display.
Christie Jumpstart now provides additional flexibility with six outputs (compared with four previously) and a 50 percent increase in resolution capability — now 15 megapixels. The content management system allows you to display multiple, high-bandwidth video files, graphics, Microsoft Windows applications, Blu-ray and DVD movies and text on a large-format video wall. Christie says it’s compatible with any digital display.
Christie JumpStart features a 3.6 GHz processor, 16 GB memory and 64-bit server for even faster performance and a more powerful workstation. Users can also send serial over IP commands to external devices by scheduling them at any point along the scenario timeline.
Christie FHD551-X with Corning Gorilla Glass is the first 55-inch super-narrow bezel LCD display for tiled video walls with bonded Corning Gorilla Glass.
Both the FHD551-X and the Jumpstart will ship in July and are here.
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Middle Atlantic Adds to Modular Power Raceway Line
Middle Atlantic Products is expanding its MPR Series Modular Power Raceway System to include three new options: a 30 Amp controlled raceway module and two options for Neutrik powerCON connectors. If you aren’t familiar with the MPR Series, it’s an off-the-shelf NRTL-listed plug and play solution for creating a custom power strips.
Two Neutrik powerCON modules are available to accommodate the manufacturer’s 20-amp and 30-amp connectors. The 20-amp rated receptacle module can be incorporated into the MPR system raceway via standard MPR connectivity options, while the 30-amp version is hardwired within the raceway.
The new 30-amp controlled module brings the benefits of the MPR Series’ 30-amp controlled standalone unit into the MPR raceway. This hardwired-only option incorporates a 30-amp isolated ground twist lock receptacle. It includes a local toggle switch that allows the integrator to control the outlet status (Always On, Always Off or Dry Contact Control) and features LEDs to confirm the module’s status.
All the details are here.
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Atlas Sound Intros New Live Surface Mount Sound Speakers
Atlas Sound’s new series of powered and passive surface mount speakers are aimed at cafeterias, classrooms, restaurants/bars, DJs and other applications where sound reinforcement of live or recorded music or vocals are required.
The SMA-12 and SMA-15 are two-way powered speakers that include a single woofer, 12″ or 15″, and a high frequency, horn style compression driver. Each unit features an integrated class-D amplifier that includes RCA and XLR mic inputs. The SMA-12 and SMA-15 also feature a Speak-On output for connecting to a passive SMP model. The SMP-12 and SMP-15 are passive models that feature the same 2-way design as the powered versions but are designed to be used in conjunction with a powered SMA version. Each cabinet includes a Speak-On connector for connecting to the powered version making them easy to install and share a source with.
You can find the specs here.
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IED Adds New Power Amplifiers
Innovative Electronic Designs’ (IED) new IED1581NA-C/IED1581NA-D and IED1542NA-C/IED1542NA-D are single and dual channel power amplifiers designed for use in smaller applications that require full-bandwidth audio and where low power and low cost are considerations.
The IED1581 amplifiers have a single channel output that offers 8 watts of power at either 4Ω or 8Ω. Model IED1581C incorporates CobraNet digital audio inputs while the IED1581D features Dante digital audio inputs. The IED1542 amplifiers feature two-channel output at either 4Ω or 8Ω with total output power of 4 watts per channel. Model IED1542C incorporates CobraNet digital audio inputs while the IED1542D features Dante digital audio inputs. All models are powered by either an external 48VDC power supply or IEEE 802.3af PoE switch and have remote monitoring output available. Each model has a small footprint enclosure that can be either DIN rail or wall mounted for convenience.
Here are all the details.
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Tightrope Introduces New Compact, Multiformat HD Video Server for Small-Scale Broadcast Operations at $14,995
Tightrope Media Systems announced at InfoComm the Cablecast SXHD LE video server, a new multi-format HD and SD video server that joins Tightrope’s Cablecast family of all-in-one broadcast automation systems. SXHD LE is a single-box, 1 RU solution for video playout that includes 4 TB of storage and built-in branding functions. It’s meant for small-scale broadcast operations such as public, educational, and government-access TV stations; campus television; local origination cable channels; hospitals; and cruise ships.
The Cablecast SXHD LE video server plays all common video formats, including MPEG-2, WMV, H.264, AVI, DVCPRO HD and ProRes, with no transcoding required, and it encodes MPEG-2, DV, DVCAM, DVCPRO, DVCPRO HD and ProRes formats up to 220 Mbps in the full 4:2:2 profile. Besides having built-in support for all of those formats, the SXHD LE plays video files back-to-back on the same output. Channel branding is made easier with video overlay features such as a station bug, bug text and crawls with both foreground and background images, possibly eliminating the need for a downstream key. The server also automatically downconverts HD files to SD for playout on an SD channel, and upconverts SD to HD for playout on an HD channel.
As with all Cablecast video servers, the SXHD LE comes with Cablecast station automation and scheduling software, which allows users to “write once, publish everywhere.” They simply enter the program information into the system one time and then drag programs onto the schedule, and Cablecast automatically publishes the schedule to the channel, the website, TV Guide’s format, and station programming reports. Cablecast also automates file conversion for Web-based video on demand.
The SXHD LE is a lower-cost alternative to Tightrope’s Cablecast SX2HD server in a smaller footprint. It is capable of standing alone, or it can control a Tightrope Carousel player through built-in software. The Carousel player automatically shows the program schedule and promotes upcoming shows throughout the day, and also serves as a community bulletin board for campus, shipboard, and community announcements.
The Cablecast SXHD LE video server will be available in Q3 for $14,995.
Go here for more information.
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Williams Sound Digi-Loop DSP Induction Loop Amplifier with Network Control Introduced
The new Williams Sound Digi·Loop induction loop amplifier includes DSP audio processing, software control of mixing, equalization, compression and loop phase shift. Williams Sound says Class D pulse-width amplifiers maximize efficiency while reducing size and weight. Network control capability provides seamless, remote system set-up, operation and monitoring via laptop, tablet or other portable devices. The Digi-Loop’s dual-amplifier design offers flexibility, with the option of single 12A output for perimeter loops or dual 10A outputs for loop arrays or one loop and one loudspeaker. Priority input (70-100V) is also available for connection to a paging system, ensuring life/safety announcements are heard loud and clear.
Here are all the details.
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VDO360 Pro USB PTZ HD Camera under $1,400
At InfoComm, VDO360 said that its new VTC camera, the PTZHD-01 — a 720p PTZ camera, is the first professional grade USB PTZ HD camera under $1,400.
While the idea of a USB HD PTZ camera isn’t exclusive to VDO360, this price point is. While the rest of the VTC industry has been pushing its way to the next great codec, the next great telepresence product, VDO360 says it has decided to focus on getting the price lower.
Camera features include:
- Sensor size: 1/2.7 ” CMOS
- Effective pixels: up to 1280X720 Pixels
- Zoom: 12x optical zoom lens
- Focal length: 4.0 ~ 48.0 mm
- View angle: maximum 53°, the minimum 5°
- Video frame rate: 30fps @ 720P
- Pan: 300° left and right
- Tilt: 180° up and down
- Dimensions: W90 x L110 x H105
- Supports Linux, Windows XP,Vista,Windows 7 32 and 64bit as well as Mac OS
Cart System highlights includes:
- PTZHD-01 Camera
- Sturdy metal base and casters
- Cherry laminate cabinet
- Small Form Factor PC
- Intel i7 Ivy Bridge processor (3.8Ghz)
- Blu-ray player
- PCi expandable for future-proofing
- Wireless keyboard/mouse
- Jabra Speak 410 (echo and noise cancelation)
- 47” LCD monitor
Here are the details.
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Anchor Audio Go Getter Portable Sound System Introduced
Anchor Audio announced the arrival of its newest portable sound system, the Go Getter. This battery powered system comes with standard options that make it ideal for school assemblies, sporting events, corporate and military training, outdoor theaters and houses of worship.
Anchor Audio will be introducing the Go Getter Portable Sound System and its package options. The total cost of a complete package will be offered at $995 suggested retail price. The Go Getter Basic Package will include the speaker with one wireless receiver, a built-in MP3/CD player, your choice of wireless microphone, and a stand all for under $995 (suggested retail price).
The Go Getter features 110 dB of crystal clear sound and is ideal for both voice and background music. It can be used indoors or outdoors, and the company says it can reach crowds of 400+ people. Weighing in at 23 pounds, the Go Getter is easy to transport and set up on a speaker stand. Simply plug in your media player or microphone and the system is ready to go. The Go Getter is completely portable with a rechargeable battery built in that can operate up to 8 hours on a single charge.
The Go Getter is available with several additional options, such as a built-in MP3/CD player, and a single or dual UHF wireless receiver(s) with 16 user selectable channels. It is comprised of a 6.5″ woven fiber woofer, and a high-output horn tweeter. The back panel features two microphone combo input jacks, and a LED display that indicates charging and low battery. There is also an external speaker output that can power an optional companion speaker.
All the specs are here.
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Panasonic Debuts Brightest Single-Chip DLP WUXGA Projector Ever
Panasonic’s newest single-chip DLPs are all part of the PT-DZ870U Series. The line includes the 8,500-lumen PT-DZ870UK, spec’d to be the industry’s brightest WUXGA (1920×1200) 1-Chip DLP projector; the 8500-lumen, WXGA (1280×768) resolution PT-DW830U; and the 10,000-lumen, XGA (1024×768) resolution PT-DX100U. The entire PT-DZ870 Series uses a new 420-watt, dual-lamp system.
All models are specified at a contrast ratio of 10,000:1 and include Panasonic’s proprietary and re-engineered Dynamic RGB Booster, which the company says improves image color and brightness by optimizing lamp intensity of individual red, green and blue colors according to each scene. The PT-DZ870 Series is also 3D compatible and supports various 3D formats including frame packing, side by side, top and bottom, line by line and simultaneous.
The PT-DZ870 Series is DIGITAL LINK compatible (HDBaseT), which assures end users of a simplified AV infrastructure with high definition video, audio and control signals all carried over a single CAT5e or higher specification Ethernet cable for up to 100 meters (328 feet). This solution reduces cabling costs and complexity and simplifies installation and maintenance. Panasonic’s Digital Interface Box, the ET-YFB100G ($1,999.00 list) is currently available and can be paired with the PT-DZ870 Series projectors for DIGITAL LINK connection, or the projectors can be used with major AV control manufacturers’ protocols such as Crestron’s Digital Media 8G+ , Extron’s XTP Systems, AMX’s Enova DVX and other manufacturers’ HDBaseT variants without the need for an external receiver.
Paired with a new ultra short-throw lens — the ET-DLE030 — the PT-DZ870 Series makes an ideal projection solution in situations where space is limited, including museums, auditoriums, exhibitions and digital signage installations. With a short throw ratio of 0.38:1(WUXGA), the device will be able to project a 100” to 350” diagonal image from 2.7ft
(0.82m) and 9.4ft (2.85m) from the screen respectively. The ET-DLE030 lens, part of a wide range of optional lenses offered by Panasonic, is compatible with all current, lens-replaceable. 1-chip DLP Panasonic projectors and will be available in August for a list price of $5,999.00.
The entire series can be found here.
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dnp Debuts Short Throw Screen
The dnp Supernova STS is a unique front projection screen with a built-in Fresnel lens structure — an optical technology that is used to focus projected light — and is aimed at applications using ultra-short-throw-projectors. The STS Screen is optimized for Ultra-Short-Throw-Projectors with a lens-throw between 0.21 and 0.27:1.
Compared to traditional white front projection screens, dnp claims the Supernova STS Screen provides better contrast and color saturation, thanks to its built-in lens technology. The dnp Supernova STS Screen offers a sophisticated lens structure, which comprises six optical layers, joined by UV-molding and aluminum evaporation processes. At the heart of the screen lies a half-circular Fresnel lens that reflects the light beam from the projector and sends it forwards at a right angle towards the viewers. dnp says its highly efficient light-transmission enables the screen to have darker black levels, without losing significant brightness in the white, which effectively results in higher image contrast.
The STS Screen comes standard in a 100″ — 16:9 format. Custom sizes are available upon request. The screen is fitted with a stylish thin black frame around the image area. A hard-coat front and a rigid aluminium back plate make the screen suitable for touch and interactive applications, should users wish to add these. Screens are packed individually and preassembled.
Here are all the specs.
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Atlas Debuts 4″ Black Ceiling Speaker
Atlas Sound’s FAP40T-B four-inch in-ceiling speaker system is part of the Strategy II Series in-ceiling speakers. Designed to provide high performance in a very compact footprint, the FAP40T-B is meant for high-intelligibility voice, music, and signal reproduction in commercial, industrial and institutional applications. A patent-pending tap selector switch design allows for easy system tuning. A full selection of taps up to 16 watts as well as an 8Ω transformer bypass setting is included for maximum system versatility. This switch “knob” also functions as a diffuser cone, providing smooth, even dispersion of the high frequency content from the center of the 4″ polypropylene driver. The grille and baffle are finished in black.
You can get all the specs here.
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RCF Intros New Two-Way Sound Design in TT+ Series
At InfoComm, RCF showed two-way sound design with the new TT+ Series 10”, 12” and 15” two-way active loudspeakers. The design philosophy for the new TT+ Series is based upon offering the sound engineer solutions and tools that are ready to use. The new products are RDNet ready, providing total control and monitoring of each individual cabinet component. Designed for both touring and rental, the cabinets are equipped with a complete set of integrated rigging mechanics, with dedicated accessories to create clusters.
The TT1-A is a 10”, 800 watt two-way cabinet.
- 800 watts (550W LF + 250W HF)
- 10” neodymium LF driver with 3” voice coil
- 2” titanium dome neodymium HF compression driver with 3” voice coil
- 55 Hz-20 kHz (+/- 3dB) frequency response
- 131 dB maximum SPL
- 90×60 precision waveguide
The TT2-A is a 12”, 1,600-watt two-way cabinet.
- 1600 watts (1100W LF + 500W HF)
- 12” neodymium LF driver with 4” voice coil
- 2” titanium dome neodymium HF compression driver with 3” voice coil
- 50 Hz-20 kHz (+/- 3dB) frequency response
- 134 dB maximum SPL
- 90×50 precision waveguide
The TT5-A is a 15”, 1,600-watt two-way cabinet.
- 1600 watts (1100W LF + 500W HF)
- 15” neodymium LF driver with 4” voice coil
- 2” titanium dome neodymium HF compression driver with 4” voice coil
- 45 Hz-20 kHz (+/- 3dB) frequency response
- 136 dB maximum SPL
- 90×50 precision waveguide
For all the specs, click here.
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New Acer K520 Hybrid Laser-LED Projector
Acer America has announced the Acer K520 hybrid laser-LED projector that’s spec’d at a brightness of 2,000 ANSI lumens in standard and 1,600 ANSI lumens in ECO mode. Using a native XGA resolution 1024×768 DLP chip (4:3 aspect ratio), it claims a 100,000:1 contrast ratio. The K520 offers inputs including analog RGB/component video, composite, S-video, PC audio and HDMI. It weighs 8.9 pounds and measures 12.6×9.1×3.4 inches.Here are all the details. |
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Crestron Edge-to-Edge Glass Touch Panel Line Debuts at InfoComm
Crestron’s new TSW family of touch screens use capacitive touch screen technology and are integrated with H.264 streaming video, edge-to-edge glass, (like the Modero line from AMX) and are connected via a single-wire PoE. The TSW-1050 ten-inch touch screen is designed for video conferencing applications, while the seven-inch TSW-750 and five-inch TSW-550 are general-purpose panels. Each is available in wall-mount or table-top models.
Features include:
- Rava SIP Intercom technology: Enables hands-free full-duplex VoIP communication between any two Rava-enabled Crestron touch screens and IP phone systems. This feature makes it extremely convenient for calling the help desk if support is needed.
- H.264 Streaming Video: Streaming video capability means users can view content from media servers, including the Crestron Network Video Streamer, security cameras, web cameras and other H.264 streaming video sources.
- Power over Ethernet: PoE connectivity simplifies installation as control, video, intercom, and power signals are transmitted over a single Ethernet wire.
- TSW-1050 and TSW-750 wall mount models install easily using a standard two-gang backbox. Using the included post-construction brackets, any TSW can neatly and quickly attach directly to drywall and other surfaces.
Here are all the specs.
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Atlas Debuts Ceiling Tile Speaker Adapter
The new Atlas Sound DT12-2X2ADP is a ceiling tile adapter for use with the Atlas Sound DT12 1′ x 2′ drop in speaker system. The DT12-2X2ADP is an adapter plate that turns the Atlas Sound DT12 1′ x 2′ lay-in speaker package into an easy-to-install 2′ x 2′ speaker package that can replace an entire 2′ x 2′ acoustical tile.
The kit includes two adapter plates and an additional T-bar support. Atlas says the DT12-2X2ADP is manufactured at the same factory as the DT12 to insure both products match in appearance. Customers can order both the DT12 and the DT12-2X2ADP to create an entire 2′x2′ speaker package.
More information is here.
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Extron Introduces New Eight-Channel Audio Extractor for 3G-SDI
Extron’s new 3G-AE 100 is an audio extractor for 3G-SDI, HD-SDI and SDI digital video signals. It automatically detects the incoming 3G-SDI/HD-SDI/SDI data rate, de-embeds up to eight channels of digital audio and then converts it to line level, analog audio. The 3G-AE 100 features an equalized 3G-SDI/HD-SDI/SDI input and eight analog audio outputs that are switch-selectable to support audio groups 1 through 4. A buffered and reclocked 3G-SDI/HD-SDI/SDI loop-through allows two 3G-AE 100 units to be cascaded to support up to 16 channels of embedded audio.
The 3G-AE 100 de-embeds eight channels of digital audio from SDI groups 1/2 or 3/4, and outputs it as line level, analog audio on captive screw connectors. Two units can be cascaded to support applications in which 16 channels of audio are required. In addition, the 3G-AE 100 features automatic input equalization up to 500 feet (150 meters) for HD-SDI and SDI signals, and up to 400 feet (120 meters) for 3G-SDI on Extron RG6 cables. Input cable equalization reduces the need for additional signal conditioning equipment by compensating for weak source signals or signal loss from a long input cable.
A front panel data rate indicator provides visual confirmation of input data rates for quick identification of the incoming digital video signal. The 3G-AE 100 is housed in a compact 1U, quarter rack width metal enclosure.
Here are the full specs. |
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Panasonic Debuts Five New Short Throw Projectors
Panasonic’s new PT-CW330 Series of ultra short-throw projectors includes the PT-CW330U, PT-CW240U, PT-CX300U as well as two interactive models that have dual pen capabilities, the PT-CW331RU and PT-CX301RU. All of these projectors are well suited for a host of applications where space is limited and high image quality is critical, including classroom lectures, corporate presentations, digital signage and small rooms.
With up to 3100 lumens and a contrast ratio of 8000:1, the PT-CW330U, PT-CW240U and PT-CW331RU are able to generate an 80” diagonal image from less than 2 feet away and the PT-CW331RU and PT-CX301RU have built-in interactive features enables two users to simultaneously write on the image using IR pens without requiring a dedicated interactive whiteboard.
PT-CW330 Series projectors include a built in 10 Watt speaker, up to 5,000 hour lamp replacement cycle and Crestron RoomView compatibility. The projectors are also 3D capable and all of them have HDMI inputs:
All of them are here.
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ViewSonic Quells Rumors of a Projector Divestment with New 6K Lumen Projector
ViewSonic Corp launched the Pro10100 projector at InfoComm aiming it at theaters, museums, auditoriums, lecture halls and houses of worship. Offering 6,000 lumens, XGA (1024×768) resolution 3-chip DLP projector features interchangeable lens options, motorized zoom and focus with powered vertical and horizontal lens-shift functions, network management capability and supports 24/7 continuous use. Optional features include warping and geometric adjustment for image-correction technology and edge-blending capability. Inputs include VGA, HDMI, DVI and Ethernet.
Here are all the specs they have on it as of now.
At InfoComm, ViewSonic also introduced a new meeting room projector in the form of the Pro8500. The Pro8500 is a single-chip DLP that’s native XGA (1024×768) and claims 5,000 lumens using the TI BrilliantColor chipset. Integrated with a USB input for laptop-less presentations as well as a network content port, the Pro8500 also has VGA and HDMI ports and includes Crestron RoomView on-board.
Here are the specs they have on the Pro8500 here.
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Panasonic Intros New 50″, 65″, 85″ and 103″ Interactive Displays
Panasonic has launched a new line of plasma-based interactive displays that integrate whiteboard-style collaborative functions with pen-touch capabilities via an Electronic Pen System that detects and displays the input device’s position from the light emitted from the display. The system allows up to four pens to be used simultaneously for actions such as written annotation, drawing and moving items independently around the screen. The system also has a remote pointer function that allows users to point, draw and annotate from up to 16 feet away (85/103PB1 is from up to 26 feet away). Only the pen is detected, so there are no false touches caused by contact with clothing or hands. Because the technology is based on fixed location pixels, the device requires no calibration, which decreases total installation time as well as follow up maintenance. In addition, the pen can be used as a mouse without extra software or driver.
Offered as the 50-inch TH-50PB2U, 65-inch TH-65PB2, 85-inch TH-85PB1 and 103-inch TH-103PB1, these plasma displays also feature wireless capabilities and a cable-free design. Data on a PC screen can be easily transmitted via a Panasonic Easy Wireless Stick (ET-UW100) without the need to switch cables for each presenter or changing any
network settings. Additionally, Multiple Transmission Mode allows data from up to 16 PCs to be shown in different cells on a single screen, or data from one PC to be shown on up to eight displays. The 50” and 65” interactive displays include a redesigned, easily rechargeable pen with a pressure sensor on the tip for a fountain pen-like feel, as well as a dedicated, one-action eraser button. These models also feature increased screen brightness for improved use in rooms with high levels of ambient light. Finger touch capability can be incorporated with the use of an optional overlay accessory.
The 50-inch , 65-inch , 85-inch and 103-inch are available now and list for $2,000, $5,000, $30,000 and $49,995, respectively. Here are all the specs.
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Middle Atlantic Intros New Lectern Line
At InfoComm, Middle Atlantic debuted its new Reference Series Lectern line that’s aimed at AV integrators and helping them speed up integration and reduces the effects of transit damage by shipping the outer wood surfaces separately from the internal rack structure. Each lectern features a fully customizable Presenter’s Panel that can be designed with cutouts to incorporate the controls, touchscreens and other devices necessary for each project’s individual requirements.
The inner steel rack structure ships directly from one of the company’s five North American warehouses, allowing integrators to begin the integration of the system immediately. The outer surfaces are shipped separately to the installation site or shop and can be quickly and easily attached to the core structure to cover the metal and complete the installation. Installers can choose from single-bay, 1.5-bay or dual-bay widths and 13 standard finishes.
Here are the details.
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NEC Intros 4th Generation E Series LCDs
NEC Display just debuted its newest LED-backlit E Series commercial-grade displays — the 4th generation in this series. The 42-inch E424, 46-inch E464, 55-inch E554 and 65-inch E654 displays are aimed at educational institutions, corporations, quick-service restaurants, healthcare facilities and fitness centers. These displays are affordable and come with a three year warranty.
All 1920x1080p models in the E Series are specified at 4000:1 contrast ratio, have three HDMI inputs, include a built-in ATSC tuner and have Ethernet and RS232 control.
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Bretford Debuts iPad Charging Cart for 42 Tablets
Bretford Manufacturing today introduced its highest capacity charging cart for iPad and iPad mini in the form of the Mobility Cart 42, which is capable of charging, storing, securing and transporting up to 42 iPads or iPad mini tablets. The new cart offers a simple and practical charging system, making it ideal for schools, training facilities and other organizations with large deployments of iOS devices.
All Bretford Mobility Carts, including the Mobility 42 for iPad and iPad mini, feature separate locking front and rear compartments, which allow customers to keep chargers locked separately from their devices and direct the heat from chargers to dissipate away from the iOS devices. The Mobility Cart family of solutions also includes the Bretford Dock & Lock Security Kit that allows the cart to be secured to a fixed, immoveable object during off-hours.
It starts shipping next week and all the details are here.
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Extron Debuts Digital Version of PoleVault System
Extron has a hybrid analog (VGA) and digital (HDMI) version of its popular K-12 classroom system PoleVault. Each system uses economical twisted pair cable (CATx) for transmitting signals and includes network connectivity for Web-based AV resource management, monitoring, and control. PoleVault Digital Classroom AV Systems are HDCP compliant, with support for both HDMI and VGA sources commonly found in many classrooms. At the heart of these systems is a switcher/amplifier that meets ENERGY STAR requirements for AV products and includes two Extron-exclusive power saving modes designed to lower energy usage and reduce operating costs.
Whether you plan to use a flat panel display, ceiling mounted projector, or wall mounted short-throw projector, digital versions of Extron PoleVault, WallVault, and PlenumVault Systems are include all the necessary audio and video switching, audio amplification (50-watt rms), system control, source connectivity, speakers, mounting hardware, and cabling needed for a complete classroom AV system. All that remains is to add a video projector, screen or flat panel display, and sources.
Here are all the details.
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BOXLIGHT Intros New Short Throw Projectors
BOXLIGHT just introduced two new short throw projectors, one for interactive applications, the ProjectoWrite8 (P8) WX31NXT, and the other for standard applications, the DAL WX31NXT. The P8 is a wall-mounted ultra short throw interactive projector that offers auto calibration software, BOXLIGHT’s LightPen software and its Dual Screen Link, which allows for two separate and individual interactive screen surfaces.
Both the P8 WX31NXT and DAL WX31NXT claim a contrast ratio of 3000:1 and 3,100 lumens. They are 3D-capable, offer native WXGA resolution, 2x digital zoom, multiple wall color options for various wall conditions or screens, LAN connection for remote monitoring, microphone input, fine tune horizontal and vertical image adjustment and a filter-less design. At a throw ratio of .35:1 from image to mirror, or .17:1 from image to projector, an 87” optimum image size can be accomplished by projecting just 14” from the screen.
List price for the P8 WX31NXT is $2,559 and for the DAL WX31NXT is $2,099. Wall mounts for either unit are $199. The full specs are here.
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CAD Audio Ships New Wireless Mic System
CAD‘s new GXL-V and GXL-U wireless mic systems are shipping. The GXL-V is a VHF receiver that features two channels of VHF wireless in one chassis. It includes XLR and ¼” discrete outputs and XLR as a mix output of the two channels. The GXL-V receiver features RF and AF indicator lights along with volume controls.
The GXL-U is a UHF receiver that includes two channels of UHF wireless also in one chassis. It is outfitted with XLR and ¼ connectors as discrete outputs and XLR as mix output of the two channels. The receiver also includes RF and AF indicator lights and volume controls.
GXL-V VHF and GXL-U UHF wireless systems are offered with handheld or bodypack transmitters. All bodypack systems are supplied with guitar cable and condenser head-worn mic at no additional charge and list for the GXL-V VHF wireless is $139 and the GXL-U UHF wireless is $229.
Complete specs are here.
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3M Exhibits New Multi-Touch Portfolio
3M exhibited its latest Projected Capacitive (PCAP) multi-touch display concepts and wide product portfolio at KIOSK Europe Expo (KEX) 2013. The now available 21.5” commercial grade chassis for interactive applications was demonstrated alongside the new 46” chassis display. Visitors also had the opportunity to get hands-on with a 46” collaborative multi-touch table concept and a vertically mounted 55” multi-touch prototype display.
The 21.5-inch 3M Multi-Touch Display C2167PW, available since May, was exhibited at KEX showing visitors its ability to combine multi-touch performance, high-definition graphics, ultra-wide viewing angles, flat front surface product design and all-steel frame into a fully integrated, commercial grade multi-touch chassis device.
The new 46” 3M Multi-Touch Display C4667PW chassis was demonstrated as a large-format, interactive table top application to highlight new opportunities for designers and creative teams in markets such as retail, hospitality and banking. Its ultra-slim, lightweight and ruggedized open frame design allows easy integration in to applications like this, as well as kiosks and enclosures.
Both 21.5-inch and 46-inch high-definition 1080p LCD displays feature a wide 178-degree viewing angle (horizontal/vertical). The 21.5-inch offers 20-touch multi-touch performance for intuitive on-screen collaboration with an ultra-fast 8 ms touch response for advanced multi-touch applications. The 46-inch is capable of tracking 60 simultaneous touch events at less than 12 ms response speed with palm rejection.
In addition, 3M exhibited a 55” prototype display designed for ultra-large interactive applications. The display is capable of tracking 40 simultaneous touch events and, like the C4667PW chassis display, has an easy to use tablet-like user interface. It was showcased vertically mounted to demonstrate its ability to capture and maintain the attention of target consumer audiences, both from a distance and close by for multi-user experiences. This feature can help improve messaging efficiency, especially in crowded public areas such as shopping centres, hotel lobbies and convention centres.
3M also demonstrated a fully-integrated, highly-scalable PCAP system solution designed for 15” to 32” multi-touch displays. The 3M Multi-Touch System PCT2000PX combines proprietary touch screen manufacturing technology with the 3M Multi-Touch Controller PX400 to overcome existing OEM design challenges in scaling PCT solutions beyond common mobile handheld device sizes (less than 11.6 inches).
Here are the details on the new products.
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Extron Debuts New Mic for VoiceLift System
Extron’s new VLP 202 Compact Pendant Microphone for use with Extron VoiceLift systems is in a new small form factor makes the VLP 202 comfortable to wear on a lanyard or clipped to the instructor’s clothing.
Signals from the VLP 202 are transmitted wirelessly to an IR receiver mounted on the ceiling or wall. The signal is then passed to an Extron PoleVault switcher where it is amplified and distributed to speakers placed throughout the classroom.
The VLP 202 includes a Power/Mute switch to silence the microphone for private conversations (for when not in use), volume controls and an auxiliary input jack for connecting additional audio devices like MP3 players. It operates for an entire school day on a single, rechargeable AA battery. It is also a component in the Extron Instant Alert system, which allows the teacher to request assistance at the push of a button.
Here are all the specs.
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Optoma Introduces Four High-Brightness Projectors
At InfoComm, Optoma introduced four new high-brightness DLP projectors. The four install projectors include the 7,000-lumen, dual-lamp flagship EH7700, as well as the 6,000-lumen X605, and two 5,000-lumen models, the EH505 and W505.
Optoma’s WUXGA resolution, dual-lamp EH7700 is the company’s first 7,000-lumen model, and offers the ultimate flexibility and reliability. Both 350W P-VIP lamps can be used together for maximum brightness and to provide redundancy. Alternatively, a single lamp can be used in Relay Mode to maximize the lifespan of each individual lamp and minimize service need.
Users can choose from any of the five motorized optional lenses, and the projector provides full 360° mounting range along the vertical axis, so the projector can be mounted on the ceiling or floor. The EH7700 also supports image blending for use with multiple projectors, and supports the most commonly-used control systems, including Crestron, Extron, AMX, PJ-Link and Telnet LAN. The EH7700 is completely live-performance ready with a mechanical shutter for situations where absolute darkness is required, safety mounting points and a flying frame option. I/O connections include two HDMI (v1.3), two VGA inputs and one VGA output, RGBHV BNC, YPbPr(3RCA) component, S-video and composite. Control ports include RJ45, RS232C and a 12V trigger.
The EH7700 is scheduled to be available at the end of this month for a list price of $9,999. More information is here.
The new X605 is an XGA, 6,000-lumen projector. Specified at 10,000:1 contrast ratio, the X605 is Optoma’s brightest projector to support full 3D through its HDMI 1.4a input. It features a choice of three optional lenses, vertical and horizontal lens shift, and two 3-watt speakers. It offers HDMI, DVI, two VGA inputs and one VGA output for analog content, S-video, composite video, component video, five BNC (RGBHV/YPbPr), two stereo mini jack audio-in, two RCA stereo audio-in, audio-out and two 12-volt triggers. RS232 and RJ45 connections are available for command and control, and a USB port allows for wireless presentation capability via an optional USB dongle.
The X605 is scheduled to be available in August for $2,799. More information is here.
Finally, the new 5,000-lumen EH505 (WUXGA resolution, $3,499) and the W505 (WXGA, $2,799) offer a choice of three optional lenses, vertical and horizontal lens shift and two 3-watt speakers. Inputs and control options are the same as for the X605. Both models will be available in August. More information is here.
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Extron Ships EDID Emulator for HDMI
Nearly everyone has EDID (Extended Display Identification Data) issues when using HDMI, especially if you’re using different sources or different displays simultaneously. Extron is shipping its EDID 101H, an EDID emulator for HDMI signal sources. It features EDID Minder, an Extron technology designed to provide automatic and continuous EDID management, ensuring that the source powers up properly and reliably outputs content. The EDID 101H also features a unique HPD (Hot Plug Detect) port that 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.
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