Volume 6, Issue 9 — September 4, 2013
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Relationships: Should You Be Steady Dating, or Playing the Field?
By Scott Tiner rAVe Columnist
If anyone is a regular reader of my columns or blogs, they know that Bates College, where I work, is a Crestron house. This summer I was able to work with some products from AMX. Specifically, we had the DVX-3155HD presentation switcher, along with the Modero MXT-1000 touch panel. I was able to configure these products using the online tool AMX Rapid Project Maker. At some point, I hope to write a blog about my reaction to this equipment. This column however, is about relationships.
Anyone who has paid attention to the AV industry over the past five to six years has noticed a trend towards manufacturers trying to force you to use their equipment as a complete solution. Eight to ten years ago, we could buy a control system from one manufacturer, a switcher from another and various accessories from all over. Those days, for our basic classroom and conference room installs are by and large, over. In large part, this is due to many manufacturer putting out “all-in-one” equipment. This equipment often is a multi-input and output switcher, audio switcher, a control system and now sometimes a DSP and an amp. The manufacturer then sells accessories, such as CAT extenders that allow you to bring in remote sources. They don’t force you to use their accessories in every case, but certainly they are designed so that it makes it much easier to stick with one manufacturer.
There is no question that for the designer, integrator, installer and technology manager these products make our lives so much easier. They also make the manufacturers and their salesmen happy because they tend to tie us into one vendor tightly. As I mentioned, we are a Crestron house. Crestron has wisely provided us great customer service and access to a wide variety of resources. As I worked with the AMX product, I began to realize how difficult it would be to switch over to a new manufacturer. Don’t get me wrong, this is not about whether the AMX product is difficult to use or program. In fact, AMX’s Rapid Project Maker allows you to build a program and touch panel design in about 10 minutes — but it is different than our Crestron equipment.
As a department, we have over 15 years of experience with Crestron equipment. Obviously, if we switched to a new manufacturer, that would not all go to waste, but a huge learning curve would be in our future. So, the question becomes: Is it financially, strategically and efficient (personnel-time wise) to begin to learn about multiple manufacturers?
I am truly torn on the answer to this. What if any of these companies get bought out and change strategic direction? We may be caught off guard and our institutions could suffer financially, and more importantly, our users could suffer with equipment that was not meeting their needs. On the other hand, if your current manufacturer is giving you exactly what you need, why fix what is not broken? Should we be steady dating, or play the field?
What I do know is that for a manufacturer to get a school to switch, the manufacturer would need to make some very major concessions. Likely, these would need to be in partnership with local integrators and dealers. When I say major concessions, I mean really major. I remember a year or so ago, NEC had an offer that they would pay the programming cost when you switched to its brand from any other manufacturer. My first reaction was that this was brilliant. After all, that is one of the major reasons people don’t switch brands. Then, with more research, I realized it would offer up to $100 in programming costs. Note to all manufacturers: That is NOT a major concession. I don’t know of any programmers that would do that work for $100.
So, what is a major concession? First, the manufacturer would have to listen to how we use our systems and our rooms, and I mean really listen. They would need to send a rep to my institution who would walk through a room with me, and look, listen and learn, without trying to sell. It would then need to spec a system that could do everything we already do. It would not need to be the same way, but we would need the same functions. Second, it would need to provide the equipment at a discounted rate. This discount is about giving me the incentive to use the new product. I don’t expect free equipment, but I would expect the first sale to be at a cost that made me sit up in my chair.
Third, it would need to provide programming and configuration support. In my mind, this means that the manufacturer would have a local installer and programmer on hand for a day or two to install and configure the system. This, in my case, would need to be free. I understand that would be a concession for the manufacturer, but since we mostly do our own installs, we would lose money if we had to pay for someone to come in and do it for us. Also, we could not fumble around with the install and configuration ourselves, and waste staff time that would normally be more efficiently used.
Finally, the company would need to provide training, phone and e-mail support for free. Again, I am saying free, because we already get it for free (or don’t need it), so if we need to start paying for it, there would be no incentive to switch.
As an integrator, dealer, installer, manufacturer, what are your thoughts on this? Does anyone out there have a great program to get people to switch over? Is there any benefit to the integrators and dealers to keep all the manufacturers happy? How many technology managers out there have multiple manufacturers throughout their institutions? Let me know in the comments; I look forward to hearing from you. Leave a Comment
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Denmark-Based Neets Intros EasyConnect PowerDenmark-based Neets’ EasyConnect is an all-in-one connector box that’s made to be integrated into a tabletop or lectern. The standard version accommodates all five typical connections for laptop computers and most tablet-type mobile devices (VGA, HDMI, RJ 45, 3.5mm audio and USB). A sixth cable (optional) can be included to accommodate, for example, a DVI connector, an XLR microphone, ¼” audio jack or RCA jack for composite video for K-12 applications. Cables are terminated at both ends.
The new EasyConnect Power is an addition to the EasyConnect Control, adding two power ports. There are three versions:
- 305-0250 Neets EasyConnect – Power EU, 2 x Power
- 305-0251 Neets EasyConnect – Power DK, 2 x Power
- 305-0252 Neets EasyConnect – Power UNI, 2 x Power
All the details are here. Leave a Comment
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BenQ Ships SX914 6000 Lumen Install Projector BenQ America is shipping a new large-venue install projector dubbed the SX914 — an XGA (1024×768) resolution DLP projector specified to output 6,000 ANSI lumens with a contrast ratio of 6500:1.The projector offers 1.6x zoom capabilities, an embedded test pattern, dual HDMI inputs, a VGA port and an Ethernet port for control and content.
With LAN Control, the SX914 enables both audio and video to be delivered over a single LAN cable, allowing IT managers to remotely manage and maintain their devices directly from their workstations. The projector supports Crestron, SNMP, PJLink, and AMX systems, and offers wireless transfer of photos and documents from any iPad, iPhone or mobile device directly to the projector.
To reduce energy costs, the SX914 features a standby mode to lower power consumption to less than 0.5 watts while the device is inactive. Lamp replacement has been made extra easy with access from the side or top of the projector, while a filter-free optical system further reduces the TCO of the device.
Available now, the SX914 lists for $3,599 and all the specs are here. Leave a Comment
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Crestron Adds New IOEX Control Modules for IR, Series, Relay DevicesCrestron has announced the release of two new infiNET EX IOEX Wireless Control Modules. Designed for retrofit applications, the IOEX modules offer a way to add wireless control of serial, IR and relay devices in homes and commercial buildings. The INET-IOEX-IRCOM enables long distance wireless communication between 3-Series control systems and devices such as TVs, cable boxes, displays, projector screens, AV components, switchers and other equipment that is controllable using basic serial or IR commands. The INET-IOEX-RYIO provides a low-voltage relay and digital input control interface for remote devices such as garage door openers, sensors, motorized screens and other relay-controlled devices, while providing the same wireless communication to a Crestron control system. Using either or both modules, the connected device can then be controlled from any Crestron user interface or from any Apple or Android mobile device.
The INET-IOEX-IRCOM features one RS232 and two IR control ports and can be mounted discreetly behind a display or inconspicuously on a wall near the desired device. INET-IOEX-RYIO provides two isolated relays and two digital input ports while communicating with a Crestron control system over the infiNET EX wireless network to enable control and monitoring of the remote equipment.
Get the specs for the INET-IOEX-IRCOM here and for the NET-IOEX-RYIO here. Leave a Comment
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Epson Introduces Brighter EX-Series Projectors Epson today introduced its new EX-Series — four LCD projectors: the EX7220 (WXGA), EX6220 (WXGA), EX5220 (XGA) and EX3220 (SVGA) — all spec’d at 3,000 ANSI lumens and with HDMI inputs. The EX6220 and the EX3220 also have wireless projection capabilities. All the projectors include keystone correction, remote lens control and a 1.2x zoom lens. They also feature Epson’s iProjection wireless system that allows computers or mobile devices to display video wirelessly.
The list price for the EX7220, EX6220, EX5220 and EX3220 projectors is $649, $599, $549 and $449, respectively. All the details are here. Leave a Comment
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Sharp Intros 20-Inch LED Display That Can Be Used In Any Configuration Sharp has debuted a unique, multi-touch LED 20″ display that can be used while flat, angled or while hanging or mounted. When flat, it can be mounted in tables or lecterns in classrooms. When angled, it sits at 75-degrees with the included stand. It can also be used as an interactive second computer monitor, or when vertical, it could be used as a digital signage kiosk.
The 1920×1080 resolution LL-S201A uses an edge-to-edge glass design; it weighs in at just over 5 pounds and is 1″ thick.
Sharp Pen Software makes the 20″ LCD like an AQUOS BOARD Interactive Display as it’s integrated with Windows 8 compatibility. A palm cancellation function prioritizes the touch of the pen over touch – making it easy for any sized hand or user. It supports up to 10 touch points, and can be used in a wide variety of applications, including corporate, digital signage, creative work and proofreading, medical, education and even gaming or as a personal tablet.
See all the specs here. Leave a Comment
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Crestron HDMI Extenders with HDBaseT Supporting 4K Ship Crestron has announced the availability of its new HDMI over HDBaseT Transmitter (HD-TX3-C) and HDMI over HDBaseT Receiver (HD-RX3-C). The new devices support 4K and offer a solution for extending uncompressed HDMI signals up to 330 feet (100 meters) via HDBaseT over a single CAT5e/UTP cable without signal degradation.
Available in a black or white faceplate, the HD-TX3-C makes it simple to connect an HDMI, DVI or DisplayPort multi-mode source to an HDBaseT display. Conversely, the HD-RX3-C enables easy connection of an HDBaseT source to an HDMI or DVI display. They also support IR and bidirectional RS232. A wall mount transmitter is available with black or white face plates.
The transmitter and receiver with IR and RS232 are also available bundled together (model HD-EXT3-C). A different model, the HD-EXT4-C transmitter and receiver set, offers (instead of the control parts) separate analog audio in and out to support DVI, or other devices that don’t support embedded digital audio. The analog audio output of the transmitter can also feed a room amplifier or powered speakers, according to Crestron.
Get more information here.Leave a Comment
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Network Control Added to BlueBOLT Power Management Platform BlueBOLT, now a separate brand from Panamax/Furman within the Core Brands group owned by parent company Nortek, today introduced a network management feature to its cloud-based power and energy management platform. The new feature allows users to query (ping) any device with an IP address on a network from a BlueBOLT-enabled component with a BlueBOLT-CV1 card. In the event of a failed ping response, BlueBOLT can send email notifications, reboot an outlet, reboot a series of outlets in sequence or any combination of the above. Existing Panamax and Furman equipment owners with products that have a BlueBOLT-CV1 card already installed can upgrade for free via a firmware upgrade. In addition, the feature will be available in Q4 for use with the Panamax MD2-ZB and BB-ZB1 product family.
Initially designed to facilitate the control of power and energy usage and remotely reboot problem components in installed electronics systems, the company’s hardware and software technology provides an intuitive, plug-and-play Web interface where users can control AC outlets to schedule, monitor and manage their energy consumption easily. With this new feature, BlueBOLT expands from power and energy management to network management for a full systems management platform.
Get all the details here. Leave a Comment
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DynaScan Intros 65-Inch LCD Specified at 3,000-nit Brightness DynaScan Technology just introduced a new 65-inch LED-backlit LCD, the DS651LR4, that’s spec’d at 3,000-nits brightness, and offers lower power consumption and a wide range of video inputs.
Using a locally-dimmed LED back light, the DS651LR4 has a contrast ratio of 1,000,000:1 (dynamic). The company says that it consumes up to 20 percent less power than its predecessor. Inputs include VGA, HDMI (HDCP compliant), and it features built-in video daisy chaining. A single video source can be used for up to 36 displays without the need for any additional external video wall controller. The narrow bezel size also makes it easy to integrate the display in an external enclosure or kiosk while maintaining a small profile.
To increase performance and prolong the lifespan of the display, the DS651LR4 utilizes a fan-less thermal management system. Heat generated by the display is radiated away from high temperature areas while a sensor continuously monitors the internal temperature to protect the system from overheating. All of this is done without the use of any fans, resulting in silent operation and greatly reducing the potential of mechanical failure.
More information about the DS651LR4 is here. Leave a Comment
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Extron Reveals Fast-Installing, Two-Way Surface Mount Speakers Extron’s new SM 26 SpeedMount Surface Mount Speaker is a two-way speaker with a patent pending, concealed wall mounting system. It features a 6.5″ (16.5 cm) woofer with dual tuned ports and a 1″ (2.5 cm) tweeter. The SM 26 provides wide frequency response from 70 Hz to 18 kHz, and a power rating of 60 watts continuous pink noise, 120 watts continuous program capacity. The mounting system is designed to accommodate division-of-labor installations and save costs. The SM 26 is available as an 8 ohm model, and an SM 26T version which can operate in 8 ohm direct as well 70 volt and 100 volt modes. The SM 26T features a 6 position power tap selector, which can conveniently be accessed through the grille from outside the speaker. All models of the SM 26 and SM 26T are immediately available, in a black or white finish.
The SM 26 slides onto the mount and locks into place. In the same installation step, the integrated electrical contacts on the speaker automatically mate with the pre-wired contacts on the mounting plate to speed up and simplify installation. A release on the speaker baffle allows for quick removal from the mount. The release is lockable and hidden, and together with the concealed speaker wiring contacts, helps to deter theft.
To meet a variety of installation needs, the flexible mounting system includes a 0° mounting plate and a 10° mounting adapter. The 0° mounting plate provides the electrical connections and allows the SM 26 to be oriented vertically or horizontally, flush with the wall. When the versatile 10° mounting adapter is added to the mounting plate, the SM 26 can be positioned with a 10° tilt downward, upward, left, or right.
The SM 26 saves time and installation costs for AV system contractors working with low-voltage contractors in a division-of-labor installation. During rough-in, a low-voltage contractor installs the mounting system on the wall and terminates the speaker cable to the mount’s integrated wiring contacts. Later, the AV system contractor completes the installation by sliding the SM 26 onto the mount.
For more information on the SM 26, click here. Leave a Comment
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Epson Adds Sub-$1000 Home 1080p Projector with PowerLite Home Cinema 2030Epson’s new PowerLite Home Cinema 2030 is a 2D and 3D 1920x1080p 3LCD projector that offers MHL-enabled HDMI. You can learn all about MHL (Mobile High-Definition Link) here. Basically, MHL is a smaller connector (for small devices like memory stick streaming devices, mobile phones, tablets, etc.) that can output resolutions up to 4K and do surround 7.1, too.
The EPSON 2030 includes six color modes, is spec’d to output 2,000 ANSI lumens, has an integrated 1.2x zoom, has both HDMI (two ports) and MHL ports, handles component video and includes two pairs of 3D glasses. It lists for $999 and all the specs are here. Leave a Comment
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Richard Gray Power to Debut IP-Addressable Power StripsRichard Gray’s Power Company (RGPC) will launch a new version of its IPAC-8 Remote IP Power Management System at CEDIA. The IPAC-8 provides IP-addressability and remote monitoring capabilities to power management systems. Designed for virtually any residential or commercial environment or application, IPAC-8 features on/off remote (IP) control of eight individual AC power outlets and local monitoring with an easy-to-read RMS current meter display that provides a quick visual indication of the load, reducing the risk of overloads and tripped breakers. On/off sequences can be defined and power can be remotely monitored via meter, web or RGPC’s free bundled software, and Http, Https, SNMP, DHCP and UDP protocol is supported. The system includes user-defined alarm thresholds for warning and overload, and event alerts can be delivered via email, trap or audible alarm.
IPAC-8 requires no additional mounting hardware, is ihiji invision compatible and there are no port forwarding or extensive network configuration requirements. It can be put in a rack (1RU) or wall mounted. This list price is $1,000 USD.
Want all the specs? Go here. Leave a Comment
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For those of you NEW to rAVe, you just read how we are — we are 100 percent opinionated. We not only report the news and new product stories of the ProAV industry, but we stuff the articles full of our opinions. That may include (but is not limited to) whether or not the product is even worth looking at, challenging the manufacturers on their specifications, calling a marketing-spec bluff and suggesting ways integrators market their products better. But, one thing is for sure, we are NOT a trade publication that gets paid for running editorial or product stories. Traditional trade publications get paid to run product stories — that’s why you see what you see in most of the pubs out there. We are different: We run what we want to run and NO ONE is going to pay us to write anything good (or bad).
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