Volume 8, Issue 6 — June 10, 2015
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Evolving College Student Population Will Change Education Technology Needs
By Scott Tiner rAVe Columnist
As I sit down to write this column, one day past my deadline (sorry, Sara) I am in the wonderful district of Washington D.C. With the support of my institution, I have the honor and pleasure of attending the Leading Change Institute, put on by EduCause and CLIR. This institute is an application based institute for people looking to improve their leadership skills and overall knowledge of the higher education landscape. We have the opportunity to hear from some amazing, intelligent and opinionated people. We have heard from the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation, the Office of Educational Technology and presidents of colleges representing areas from around the country.
I am writing about this experience to share some of the thoughts that these very intelligent people have put before us. It seems timely as InfoComm is just around the corner and I hope that you are able to take some of these thoughts and apply them to the show floor and products that you see.
A common theme of the 36 attendees and the presenters are the changes that higher education is currently going through. These include regulatory oversight, budgetary challenges and cuts, along with changes in the faculty and the changing demographics of the students attending our colleges. For example, did you know that 40 percent of the people who start a four year degree don’t finish? That 25 percent of college students are over the age of 25. Another 25 percent of college students are parents and of that 50 percent are single parents.
Yeah, OK. What does that have to do with projectors, screens and amps? Nothing and everything.
Most of us either work in, or sell to educational institutions that serve students that attend classes in person on a regular basis. That is not the case however for our community colleges and large public institutions. These institutions have been trying to reach out, and are going to need to find new ways to reach out to students who don’t fit the model of the 18 year old who just graduated from high school and is ready to attend college full time. In smaller private schools, we may not see the trend yet, but these “typical” college students are changing into a different demographic. While there will likely always continue to be the “typical” college student, the pool of those students is shrinking.
If you are an integrator or a technology manager, you need to be keenly aware of what is going on, because it is going to change what you do. The concept of in-class instruction is not going to disappear any time soon, but the current construct of in-class instruction is quickly disappearing. We see this in the active classroom models and the “flipped classroom” approach happening all over the country. The construct is, if you are going to spend the time and resources on face to face education, it had better be worth it. That means active learning, student centered learning and “guide on the side” teaching. If you are simply going to lecture every day for 50 minutes and take five minutes of questions at the end (which in some cases may be an effective teaching method) then don’t spend the time and resources of a full classroom. Record it, post it, and answer questions video e-mail and a video response.
As you walk the aisles of InfoComm this June, think about these things. Which technologies there will provide you or your customers with the most flexibility and efficiency for adapting to the new paradigm, while still providing for the current model. Some ideas to get you started. If the device does not have an Ethernet connection, keep walking. Video and more video. Schools needs methods to record video, edit video, store video and play it back. So many of these systems today are convoluted and expensive. Look for systems that are easy to use and scalable. When you think about classroom equipment make sure that it is easily movable and flexible. It is likely that the room you install this summer will be changed before it is due for another upgrade. It is a very exciting, albeit challenging time in higher education and you have the ability to be part of the change. Leave a Comment
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Making a Case for Software Based AV Management
By Eric Cantrell Medialon
Audiovisual systems in classrooms, meeting rooms and huddle spaces have been steadily moving into the world of IT, replacing separate displays, playback, matrix switchers and DSPs with simple interactive whiteboards and soundbars, or even Microsoft’s new Surface Hub touch screen. The question of whether an AV control system is even needed in these spaces at all is increasingly valid.
AV systems used to be complex, with lots of different components brought together in such a way that took trained technicians to understand the signal paths and how to get each type of source to the destination, be it a telephone call to the loudspeakers or a PowerPoint presentation to the projector. Ah, the memories of half a dozen remote controls in the top drawer of the credenza!
In an attempt to democratize AV, control systems were invented, making complex AV systems more approachable and usable for general users, without needing to understand signal flow or how each room was designed. Touch screens became de rigueur, though each programmer thought differently about what makes a control system useful, and it was rare that any two systems functioned alike unless the same programmer was hired to do them.
Typically, control systems consisted of a hardware based controller in each room, connected to the AV devices in that room, including the local touch panel or button pads, sometimes both.
More recently, those expensive touch screens have been replaced by an app on a tablet, and AV devices in multiple rooms are connected to the network, enabling the controller to manage many more devices in multiple rooms. Typically, this means the hardware controller can be located in an equipment room along with other centralized systems, such as a digital signal processor or a matrix video switcher. Hooray for efficiency!
The graphics have gotten fancier, but programming has mostly been the same old story, if you want multiple systems to work the same, you need to hire the same programmer. Besides, he has the original code, so if you want to change a projector model or add a button, it’s much less expensive to hire him again to make the modification than to pay someone to start over from scratch (which would result in you having one room that didn’t match the rest).
But now, here we sit at the nexus of AV and IT, where computer manufacturers are creating touchscreen collaboration tools, and interactive whiteboards combine projection, signal switching, audio, and an on-board computer. With so much of the AV incorporated into these arguably IT devices, how necessary is an AV control system at all?
Want to do a video conference? Launch Skype.
Need to do a presentation? Pop in a USB stick.
How about playing a video? Stream it from your network file server.
AV control systems are in an awkward position at the moment. Their skill sets are being replaced by advancing capabilities of the devices they once controlled. AV control systems are trying to find themselves in this changing world. And their place is likely in middle management, making sure the devices are there, operating, and keeping an eye on expendables such as projector lamps.
A college campus with hundreds of classrooms, or a conference center with dozens of breakout rooms needs to monitor and supervise the AV equipment. Who has time to log into web pages for 100 different projectors, just to make a note about the lamp hours remaining? Control systems are great for this kind of supervisory task.
Most AV control systems are based on microprocessors of limited capacity and have limited memory. If they can handle multiprocessing, that only means one controller can run multiple programs, not that a single program can be busy polling and processing complex calculations or string operations and still be able to handle input from touch screens simultaneously. When projects get too big or complex, the entire system can feel sluggish, which results in multiple button presses by users, further complicating the situation.
Due to limitations of the hardware, a college campus or conference center would need to have dozens of hardware controllers, and each one needs to be purchased, programmed, maintained, and powered. And then gathering all the information from all the controlled devices in one place requires yet another layer of software or a cloud service. It’s typically not easy to set up or maintain, and in many cases, technicians just log into a dozen different control systems to gather the information manually.
Let’s contrast this with modern computing hardware, operating systems, and software.
Even a modest netbook has hundreds of times more computing power than most dedicated AV control hardware. The PC can handle multiple TCP connections, simultaneously performing calculations, running scripts, querying databases, and rendering graphics… and that’s just to look at Facebook! Why couldn’t this processing power be used to control and supervise hundreds of video projectors from a single machine? Imagine the electricity you could save every year just by not running dozens of hardware boxes!
What if the user interfaces were simple web pages, written with HTML and CSS? That would enable any device with a web browser to be used as a control surface. No longer would you need dedicated touch screens or special apps to control your AV system.
Gathering information about the health and well-being of your AV equipment is a major benefit of using AV control systems. If all the devices are controlled by a single system, they become easy to supervise and manage in one central place with little effort.
Another consideration is about the nature of electronic hardware in general. Eventually, it will stop working. With a hardware controller, your only choice is to buy another hardware controller, and hope that your programming can be installed on it. With a software based AV control system, if the computer hardware dies, simply install the software and the project files onto another computer, and you’re back up and running.
With software AV control systems, there’s another alternative for handling hardware failures: virtualization.
Software based AV control systems can operate on any computer, even a virtual one, running on a server with other virtual machines, like your IT department may already be using for e-mail, file servers, FTP, Accounting or any number of other mission-critical applications.
The virtualization systems used by datacenters are designed to provide automated recovery from hardware or software failures, as well as resource balancing as more memory and processing is required.
If a stick of memory or a power supply fails in a server, the hypervisor layer handles the situation by continuing to run the virtual machines on different hardware. This concept is called “fault tolerance.”
This technology is not limited to datacenters, however. In fact, it is easy and inexpensive (even free in some cases) to implement datacenter-style virtualization on a small scale. That kind of hardware redundancy is something no dedicated hardware based AV control system can offer.
Another advantage of looking at AV Control from an IT perspective is the ability to provide better integration with IT services, such as single-sign on credentials management tools or room booking systems.
Credential management systems allow the IT team to manage what functions each user is able to perform with the AV system. A general user may be able to turn a projector on, select an input, and adjust the volume of the speakers in the room, while a technician may be able to see lamp hour status, projector temperature, adjust audio EQ. Managers, on the other hand, may be more interested in knowing about the usage of the AV assets in each room so they can schedule preventative maintenance or to report about uptime for service level agreements.
Connecting to a room booking system makes it possible for the AV Controller to prepare rooms for scheduled meetings ahead of time, making sure equipment is functioning properly, alerting the meeting organizer if something isn’t working right. The meeting organizer then can opt to move the meeting to another location, cancel it, or reschedule, rather than waiting for everyone to arrive, just to find out the presentation or videoconference can’t take place.
Imagine the efficiencies an organization can gain by using automation and supervision together in an AV Management system. By comparison, it makes today’s touch screen based control systems seem about as useful as that credenza drawer full of remote controls!
To recap, centralized systems provide efficiencies in system operation, including system setup, power consumption, less equipment to purchase, program, and maintain, and ease of device management. Hardware controllers and their limited processors aren’t built to manage hundreds of devices in a real-time manner. However, modern computing hardware, operating systems, and software can handle a large amount of device communication and user activity easily. Running AV control software in a virtual machine provides additional benefits of reduced power consumption, hardware redundancy, and automated disaster recovery.
The next step to making AV systems truly useful will be implementing automation and management functions that connect AV to other critical business functions, such as credential management, room booking, and even building management systems.
All of these benefits come with a lower purchase price and lower total cost of ownership than hardware-based AV control. Just like Skype and Microsoft Lync have largely replaced dedicated hardware videoconferencing solutions, it’s only a matter of time before software replaces hardware for AV control.
We have the technology. Let’s do something with it! Leave a Comment
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Sharp Launches Its First 55 With an Ultra-Slim Bezel Sharp is expanding its PN-V video wall series with the launch of its first 55″ class (54.6″ diagonal) PN-V551 LED Ultra-Slim Bezel professional monitor. With a bezel-to-bezel width of just 3.5mm, the PN-V551 features Sharp’s Uniform Color Calibration Technology (UCCT), the industry’s first and only factory calibration process that delivers out-of-the box pixel to pixel color uniformity between multiple video wall monitors — encompassing chromatic intensity, luminance, and hue.
The energy-efficient PN-V551 monitor combines full-HD (1920×1080) resolution with a brightness of 700 cd/m2 to deliver stunningly bright and detailed images to complement virtually any commercial or public space. Whether in a shopping mall, hotel, control room, transport hub or conference hall, these monitors will convey messages with overwhelming style and precision.
Other features include:
- Easy Video Wall Assembly/Connection: Video walls are easy to assemble and simple to control via RS-232C interface or network. Four monitors set up in a 2×2 configuration, for example, display every pixel of native 4K Ultra HD (3840×2160 pixels) content, equivalent to a 110″ Class screen.
- Mirror Frames: Optional Mirror Frames in video walls help lessen the visible lines between monitors by reflecting images of the display content. This creates a smoother big-picture effect.
- Safe Handling: All four corners are fitted with robust carrying handles. Together with the monitor’s light weight of 60.2 lbs., these handles help enable safe transport and easy, time-saving installation.
- 24/7 Usage: The sturdy PN-V551 monitor is ideal for use in 24-hour stores and in other demanding professional applications that require round-the-clock operation, seven days a week.
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Hitachi Adds CP-WU8461 and CP-WU8451 LCD Projectors Featuring HDBaseTHitachi America today introduced its CP-WU8461 and CP-WU8451 LCD projectors, two new models that offer HDBaseT capability along with improved contrast, WUXGA resolution and numerous additional enhancements. The CP-WU8461 and CP-WU8451 are aimed at mid- and large-sized auditoriums and venues.
The CP-WU8461 and CP-WU8451 are able to receive video signals from distances of more than 300 feet via HDBaseT. In addition, both projectors include a complete selection of A/V inputs including HDMI, component, S-Video and composite video, USB Type A and Type B, computer and audio. LAN, RS-232C control, remote control and monitor out connections are also provided.
The CP-WU8461 and CP-WU8451 are both WUXGA 1920×1200 resolution and 5000:1 contrast ratio as well as 6,000 and 5,000 lumens brightness, respectively. They feature exclusive Hitachi image technologies such as HDCR High Dynamic Contrast Range to yield clear images even in bright rooms, and Accentualizer, which enhances sharpness, shadow detail and other image qualities. Both models offer a DICOM (Digital Imaging and Communications in Medicine) Simulation Mode, which is ideal for viewing grayscale medical images, such as X-rays, for training and educational purposes.
The CP-WU8461 and CP-WU8451 provide motorized focus, zoom and lens shift, allowing adjustment of the image via the supplied remote control. Digital keystone (horizontal and vertical) correction, Hitachi’s exclusive Perfect Fit image correction and 360-degree display rotation enable precise positioning of the image and facilitate installation. In addition to their supplied 2.0x zoom lens, four optional additional lenses are available to accommodate a wide variety of projection distances.
The CP-WU8461 and CP-WU8451 can be found here. Leave a Comment
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Extron Ships Full-Range of SpeedMount Speaker System for Suspended CeilingsExtron is shipping the CS 123T SpeedMount Ceiling Speaker System, a patented low profile, plenum rated two-piece speaker system. It provides a wide 165° conical dispersion for flexibility in speaker spacing. The system is designed for applications where high intelligibility and maximum coverage is desired in paging applications and low ceiling installations. The innovative system consists of the CS 120P plenum rated enclosure and a CS 3T full-range speaker cartridge. The enclosure installs quickly into 2’x2′ (600×600 millimeter) suspended ceilings. The speaker cartridge features a 3″ full-range driver, and can be used in 70/100 volt or 8 ohm operation. The CS 123T is available as a complete assembly, or the CS 120P and CS 3T can be purchased separately to accommodate division-of-labor installations.
The CS 123T is available as a complete assembly including a pair of CS 120P enclosures and a pair of CS 3T full-range speaker cartridges. The enclosures and speaker cartridges can also be purchased in pairs separately, so they can be delivered to low-voltage and AV system contractors.
The CS 120P plenum enclosure installs quickly into 2’x2′ or metric 600×600 millimeter suspended ceiling grids. It features a shallow 5″ (12.7 centimeter) profile, which simplifies installation into congested ceiling spaces around piping and ducts. The integrated tile bridge of the enclosure rests on the ceiling tile above the grid, evenly distributing the weight of the CS 120P and the CS 3T speaker cartridge. This avoids the need to assemble V-rails and C-rings, greatly reducing the number of installation steps and the chances of losing installation hardware.
The CS 3T speaker cartridge features a 3″ (7.6 centimeter) full-range driver, and can be used in 70/100 volt or 8 ohm operation with a behind-the-grille, six position power selector switch. The cartridge installs quickly and easily into the CS 120P enclosure. The CS 3T delivers full-range audio reproduction and a wide conical dispersion of 165 degrees for vocal clarity and broad coverage. The CS 3T is optimized for voice reproduction and paging applications. It features a power rating of 16 watts continuous pink noise and 32 watts continuous program capacity. The CS 3T features a magnetically attached grille and a thin-edged bezel for a refined appearance on the ceiling.
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Medialon to Demo AV Management System, Overture, at InfoCommMedialon will be demo’ing its Overture facility-wide AV Management system to the U.S. market at InfoComm 2015 next week. Medialon’s Overture won a rAVe Best of ISE Award earlier this year and they attribute the award to the system being integrated into a multitude of places including a conference center and a theme park.
Available for use in a range of locations including museums, concert venues, and sport stadiums, Overture makes it easy to control company-wide technology using one dynamic, innovative software.
Medialon develops user-friendly management solutions for monitoring and integrating audiovisual resources, information technology, and building systems for an overall better user experience.
Created by seasoned AV veterans for IT departments, Overture eliminates old, bulky hardware and programming by creating easy-to-use interfaces through simple configuration. Medialon also eliminates the need to bring in outside specialized programmers or hold extensive employee training sessions as well.
In addition to system-wide control, Overture has many other benefits including eliminating unnecessary hardware in every room by centralizing AV control and management to software that runs on virtual machines on existing server hardware. It detects and can alert staff about equipment errors and can automatically power down equipment when not in use, extending the useful life of AV gear and saving energy.
Medialon’s booth (4855) will demo Overture and you can set a one-on-one appointment here.
We recorded a podcast with Medialon’s Director of Sales Eric Cantrell, which you can listen to it here.
And, Medialon is here. Leave a Comment
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Stewart Filmscreen Takes Aim at Install Market with Non-Tensioned Motorized ElectriScreens Designed for Boardrooms, Classrooms and HOW Stewart Filmscreen’s new line of Cima NT non-tensioned motorized projector screens will launch at InfoComm 2015 next week. Stewart says the new Cima NT above- or below-ceiling ElectriScreen models deliver the durability, image quality and aesthetics that Stewart is known far but at more competitive, budget-friendly price points.
Designed and manufactured in the USA by Stewart Filmscreen and available in standard sizes and aspect ratios from 92 to 164 inches (diagonal), Cima NT ElectriScreens are designed for boardrooms, classrooms, and houses of worship.
The Cima NT AC ElectriScreen is a non-tensioned above ceiling ElectriScreen, whereas the Cima NT BC ElectriScreen is a non-tensioned below ceiling ElectriScreen. All Cima NT models feature Stewart’s proprietary adjustable black drop. Every screen will include additional black masking that can be reset at the job site. This makes specification much simpler.
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Epson Adds PowerLite 4770W to Large Venue Projector Lineup Epson today introduced the PowerLite 4770W, a $1,999, 5,000 lumens (of color brightness) WXGA (1440×900) resolution 3LCD projector, the newest edition to the PowerLite 4000-Series.
The 4770W includes horizontal and vertical lens shift, has HDMI, VGA and DisplayPort inputs as well as wireless projection via Epson iProjection app as well as these features:
- Built-in lens shift: Up to 70 percent vertical lens shift and 38 percent horizontal lens shift
- Remarkable video processing: Faroudja DCDi Cinema technology for exceptional video quality without introducing artifacts
- Split Screen Capability: Project two images (video or still) side by side from two different sources, simultaneously
- Network management and control tools: Remote presentations, built-in schedule function and EasyMP
- Monitor tool to monitor and control all networked Epson projectors, setup email notification, and verify and change internal settings
- Advanced installation features: Including point and arc correction to easily adjust each side of an image for a perfectly rectangular image
- Centered lens design: Position the ceiling mount, screen and projector independently; screen will align with the lens at the center of the projector
- Convenient test patterns: Nine patterns to check linearity, color reproduction, bleeding and tone production; distortion detection included
- Long lamp life: High efficiency lamp lasts up to 5,000 hours in ECO mode and 4,000 hours in normal mode; lamp and filter located on the side panel for easy access and quick, easy replacement even if the projector is mounted
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Extron Adds SM 28 Fast Installing, Two-Way Surface Mount Speakers Extron has launched the SM 28 SpeedMount Surface Mount Speaker, a two-way speaker with a patent pending, concealed wall mounting system. It features an 8″ (20.3 cm) woofer with dual tuned ports and a 1.1″ (2.8 cm) tweeter. The SM 28 provides a frequency range from 59 Hz to 22 kHz, and a power rating of 90 watts continuous pink noise, 180 watts continuous program capacity. The Extron exclusive mounting system is designed to accommodate division-of-labor installations and save costs. The SM 28 is available as an 8 ohm model, and an SM 28T version which can operate in 8 ohm direct as well as 70 volt and 100 volt modes. The SM 28T features a six-position power tap selector for up to 64 watts, which can conveniently be accessed through the grille from outside the speaker.
For installers, 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 28 to be oriented vertically or horizontally, flush with the wall. When the versatile 10° mounting adapter is added to the mounting plate, the SM 28 can be positioned with a 10° tilt downward, upward, left, or right.
The SM 28 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 28 onto the mount.
The SM 28 is sold in pairs and carries a 5 year parts and labor warranty. It is available in a black or white finish and includes a 0° mounting plate and a 10° mounting adapter. Also available is an optional yoke mount kit for the SM 28. It allows for vertical or horizontal speaker mounting on a wall, or on a ceiling, and provides 180° of pivot in 10° detented steps.
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AOPEN Partners With DISE to Pre-Install Digital Signage ContentDISE International AB has in cooperation with AOPEN created digital signage player software especially tailored for the AOPEN MEP320 and AOPEN DE6140, which will now come pre-installed on these devices. These products cover a broad range of installations and scenarios, from low to high-end.
AOPEN MEP320 is an Android-based media player that includes the new DISE product package called “DISE Smart.” DISE Smart is designed for customers needing an affordable solution that can display basic content but not lose advanced features of a digital signage system.
AOPEN DE6140 is a Windows-based signage player that includes the new DISE product package called “DISE Premium.” This product is intended for customers interested in advanced content with a lot of simultaneous, dynamic messages. This signage player is suitable for video walls, synchronized messages and interactive presentations.
The products are running through a cloud-based interface but are also supported with DISE Composer for those who wants higher freedom and add their own unique templates and content, tickers and other file formats. The products are delivered as software as a service (SaaS).
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Extron SMP 351 Integrates with Opencast Media Server to Automate Lecture Capture Extron’s SMP 351 now integrates with Opencast Media Server to create end-to-end solutions for recording AV presentations, from scheduling to publishing. Opencast is a free, open-source platform for the management of AV media recorded in training and education environments. The Extron SMP 351 Streaming Media Processor serves the role of a “capture agent” in an Opencast system. It combines a presentation source and camera video of the instructor with a background image into flexible layouts, which deliver the live presentation experience.
Organizations use Opencast to schedule, process, and distribute AV recordings to Learning Management Systems (LMS) such as Blackboard, Moodle or Sakai, or Content Management Systems (CMS) such as Kaltura, YouTube or iTunes University. Opencast also provides a video-on-demand server that provides a browser-based player interface to play back recorded media. Recording schedules can be entered and managed directly from Opencast, while the SMP 351 continuously updates schedule data for reliable initiation of recording sessions. The SMP 351 delivers long recordings to Opencast as sequential MP4 files that maintain the complete audio and video program with no gaps, ensuring that events are captured in their entirety.
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Anchor Audio to Launch Bigfoot Powerful Portable PA System at InfoComm 2015 in OrlandoThe Bigfoot Line Array is being promoted by Anchor Audio as the most powerful battery-operated, portable PA ever built — and it will debut this June at InfoComm 2015. The Bigfoot outputs 130 dB and 400 watts AC/DC of sound through its five 8” neodymium woofers and one high-efficiency tweeter, all powered by three rechargeable batteries. It comes in a durable UV resistant enclosure and two rugged, heavy-duty 8” wheels.
The Bigfoot is the first Anchor Audio portable sound system that offers up to four built-in UHF wireless receivers. Standard inputs and outputs include: two universal microphone inputs, one 1/4” balanced line input, one 3.5 mm AUX balanced line input, and USB charging for portable devices. It also features standard built-in Bluetooth connectivity on all models and an optional built-in CD/MP3 combo player. The Bigfoot includes bass and treble controls for fine-tuning as well as a battery level indicator.
The Bigfoot Line Array is available à la carte as well as in packages with either two or four wireless receivers and microphones. The cost of a base unit starts at $3,350 and the top of the line package, the Bigfoot Quad, includes the system with standard built-in Bluetooth, a built-in CD/MP3 combo player, four wireless receivers and the customer’s choice of four wireless microphones.
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Bogen to Debut Four New Lines at InfoComm Bogen Communications will be introducing several new products at InfoComm 2015 including a line of compact, half-rack width amplifiers; a 500-watt amplifier; a compact line array loudspeaker system; and a digital loudspeaker controller.
The CC4062MBT is the latest model in the CC-Series of amplifiers which are 40-watt compact amplifiers with varying inputs and features. The new CC4062MBT provides seven inputs (three mic/line, one aux, one tel, a built-in Media Player with EQ, as well as Bluetooth source-pairing capability) and an MOH output. In addition, it offers individual phantom power for MIC inputs, volume controls for each input, priority muting, bass and treble controls and a REC output. These amps are housed in half-rack width enclosures. Each amplifier measures 8-1/4” wide by 3-1/2” high by 10-3/8” deep and weighs 11 pounds. They work with 70V, 25V, 4-ohm and 8-ohm speaker systems.
Bogen has also added a 500-watt amplifier to its Gold Seal Series. This new addition, Model GS500, provides the same features as the other five models in the series but with double the power (500 watts). Features include seven inputs (four mic, one mic/tel, one mic/aux, one aux); 10-band graphic equalizer; loudness contour control; audio enhancement; phantom power for each MIC input; variable music muting; remote master volume control; automatic level control; balanced line driver output; low-cut filter for MIC channels; and AUX fade back after TEL page.
The Gold Seal Series works with 4-ohm, 8-ohm, 25V, 25VCT and 70V systems. The GS500 provides several safety features such as thermal and overload protection. Separately sold accessories include a tamper-resistant front cover, rack mounting kit and a remote volume control.
Bogen’s ALA-1 system is a compact line arrays system consisting of four parts:
- The ALA-1 is the main array, which incorporates four metal-alloy woofer cone drivers featuring the pioneering voice-coil guidance system by NEAR, with Ferrofluid in the magnet gap.
- The ALA-1LT Long-Throw module increases the array length by 50 percent, focusing this extra energy to augment and extend the performance of the ALA-1 for longer distances.
- The ALA-1DF Down-fill Module increases vertical coverage below the main array greatly improving articulation in front row near-field listening areas often eliminating the need for stage-based front fill speakers.
- The ALA-1S has a 12” woofer which provides high output and extended bass for music and video productions. In addition, a unique mounting bracket that allows the full ALA array to be suspended and tilted.
Finally, the Apogee Model DLX24 is a two-input by four-output digital loudspeaker controller that they say is designed for both live sound and fixed installations. The DLX24’s software allows custom configuration of any combination of Apogee speaker presets and provides remote volume control and monitoring of the speaker system through a PC USB interface. Users can access up to 8 bands of parametric equalization, up to 910 milliseconds of delay, LP and HP crossover filters, and peak compressor/limiter (per input channel). Output channels offer the same input capabilities and include an additional RMS compressor/limiter. Output channels can be specific protected Apogee speaker presets or non-protected for non-Apogee products.
All the specifics will be posted here when they officially announce. Leave a Comment
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WolfVision Jumps Into Collaboration Market With Cynap BYOD Box That Also Records Content WolfVision’s new Cynap BYOD collaboration and information sharing system will officially debut at InfoComm in Orlando next month, but we were at the launch last week. Cynap is promoted as a complete, open platform multimedia interface allowing you to share information and materials — in any format, from any device, to any location — at any time. The system features ‘Bring Your Own Device’ capabilities, as well as HD recording, streaming, and media player functionality. Think of it like Barco’s ClickShare but with lecture/meeting capture added to it.
See a video rAVe shot of Cynap here.
Cynap is compatible with iOS, Android, and Windows devices and it allows up to four devices to share content simultaneously on-screen with 4K UHD output resolution (four 1080p outputs). And, it supports both AirPlay and Miracast mirroring.
Recording functionality is what differentiates this BOYD product as it enables HD capture of all multi-media presentation and lecture content. Saved sessions can also be automatically uploaded to specific destinations on an FTP server or streaming distribution services when automated distribution of recorded content is required.
Additionally, WolfVision’s new vSolution Capture app enables large numbers of students or virtual attendees to receive and record a direct stream of content from Cynap anywhere within the network with voice-over commentary and audio included. The Capture app even allows recipients to personalize their own copy of the recorded stream by adding notes and annotations in real-time.
WolfVision says their Cynap’s user-friendly interface allows individuals to easily access materials, as well as display, play, record, and stream all commonly used media simultaneously — providing unlimited media sharing options during lectures, collaborative sessions, and professional meetings. ‘Live’ materials are also easily integrated, when used in combination with a WolfVision Visualizer. The official launch of the Cynap system will be at InfoComm 2015 at WolfVision Booth #C3733.
When it’s on WolfVision’s website, it will be here.
See a video interview about Cynap with WolfVision’s Arthur Jenni here. Leave a Comment
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BenQ Introduces MX570 Entry-Level Projector Aimed at Education Corporate Meeting Rooms BenQ America’s new MX570 Colorific projector is spec’d as a 3,200 ANSI lumen, 13,000:1 contrast ratio projector integrated with their SmartEco technology. Designed specifically for classrooms and conference rooms, the MX570 is an XGA resolution (1024×768) projector that includes HDMI and VGA connectivity and uses a 10,000 lamp.
Designed for setups across entire facilities, the MX570 features remote management via LAN — providing management for IT staff via remote monitoring, scheduling and maintenance from any location over a network. For even further convenience and to ease installations into existing infrastructures, the unit’s LAN terminal is compatible with AMX, Crestron, Extron and PJLink. The MX570 features a 1.3x zoom as well as vertical keystone correction, while HDMI, VGA, S-Video, RS232 and RJ45 inputs.
Here are all the detailed specs of the $529 MX570. Leave a Comment
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SMART Launches kapp iQImagine a 4K front-of-room display that also doubles as a digital whiteboard that’s as simple to use as a regular whiteboard. That product now exists in the form of the SMART kapp iQ. It enables multi-way linking between any combination of devices, anywhere in the world — that’s SMART kapp iQ. SMART kapp iQ lets everyone, whether in the meeting room or classroom, see what is being written in real time. It doesn’t stop there. Anyone can contribute from their device, and when they do, whatever they write appears not only on kapp iQ, but is seen by everyone instantly, on their own device.
SMART says that the kapp iQ isn’t just a whiteboard. Host live sessions between multiple SMART kapp iQ boards across remote locations. Anything written or shared on the SMART kapp iQ is viewable on connected boards, and participants are able to share right back. Connect any Android or iOS device to the SMART kapp iQ and you can share and save in real time to any connected laptop, tablet, smartphone or other SMART kapp iQ boards with access to a web browser. And, SMART kapp iQ is available in two sizes: 55″ and 65″ (diagonal).
Connect with the board through the SMART kapp app, connect your device to the board in a single step using a QR code. Only one person needs to connect. Once you’re connected, share the meeting with participants in the room or across the globe.
After you connect, a URL is immediately created for your session. Email the link to whomever you’d like to have join, and they’ll see the content on their display as it unfolds on the kapp iQ. Up to 250 participants may join a session with the SMART kapp Plus subscription (up to five participants allowed with the free SMART kapp starter subscription). Any participant can capture and save notes as snapshots (JPEG or PDF), and store them on Evernote for archiving and easy distribution.
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AVF Intros Electric Lift DeskAudio Visual Furniture’s (AVF) DS6330-LFT is an adjustable height work desk aimed at high tech classrooms, lecture halls and corporate training sites. It features a large work surface with easily accessible power and grommets for electronics and charging devices. Powered by Linak electric actuators with push-button height adjustment and height readout LCD, the desk can adjust from sit to standing position (27” – 50”) in a mater of seconds and also includes three user memory height settings for macro-adjustment.
The desk itself is made with furniture grade laminates and available also in thermowrap finish to match other AVF products and it has a large work-surface (63″ W x 30” D) to accommodate monitors, laptops and documents and, of course, it has a modesty panel with cable management.
This is a perfect desk for both classrooms and training rooms. Leave a Comment
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Contemporary Research to Debut ATSC-SDI 4 Tuner and ICC1-IRX TV Controller at InfoCommContemporary Research (CR) will introduce two new products at InfoComm: the ATSC-SDI 4 Tuner and the ICC1-IRX TV Controller.
The ATSC-SDI 4 is the newest addition to CR’s successful line of HDTV Tuners. They are marketing it as the first “cost-effective” HDTV demodulator that features onboard ASI and HD-SDI ports, as well as MPEG2 and MPEG4 decoding. The integral HD-SDI output allows inclusion of 708/608 captioning, choice of AES stereo or AC-3 audio, and scaled output set to a constant 1080p, 1080i, 720p, or 480i resolution. The ASI port outputs the full MPEG stream, including all programs, audio options and data at native resolutions. A professional HDTV tuner, the ATSC-SDI 4 features onboard Web pages for control, setup and monitoring and is designed for broadcast integration.
The ICC1-IRX is the newest product in the CR Display Express RF display control line. This TV controller adds a direct Xantech CSM1 power sensor input, allowing absolute power control for TVs that don’t have discrete power commands.
CR’s new line of dual channel QMOD HDTV Modulators/IPTV Encoders will soon add full digital RF/IPTV convergence, enabling MPEG2 and MPEG4 /H2.64 encoding. In addition to two-channel encoding for RF or IPTV, the encoder can offer split operation — one source can be output as a full HD MPEG2 RF channel, as well as a lower bitrate MPEG4 stream for IPTV. This feature will be available by the end of Q3 and will be easily updated using the USB port on the front panel. All the new QMODs feature 2-channel operation, AC3 Audio, SAP audio and full hardware scaling.
The ATSC-SDI 4 HDTV Tuner is available now for $1,540 and the ICC1-IRX will be available in July for $355 and both are here. Leave a Comment
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FSR to Roll Out Range of New Electronics Products at InfoComm 2015At this year’s InfoComm, FSR is introducing a variety of new products, including the DV-MFMV-74 and DV-MFSS-71 scaling switchers; DV-HSW4K-41, DV-HSW-21A and DV-MFSW-21A HDMI switchers; the HD-HPC-SP-Tx and HD-HPCWP-Tx additions to the company’s HDBaseT product family; the relaunch of its FLEX IO-16 I/O Interface Unit and a sneak peak at significant upgrades and design changes to the Digital Ribbon Cableseries. The new products are:
- DV-MFMV-74: DV PRO – MultiVU – Seven Input Multi-Format Windowing Scaler – The DV-MFMV-74 is a 7×1 seamless windowing switcher that has seven multi-format inputs (four HDMI, two DisplayPort and one VGA/RGB/YPbPr) and one HDMI out that supports scaled resolutions up to 4Kx2K 30hz. The DV-MFMV-74 allows users to show up to four of the inputs on the same screen simultaneously in a single, dual, triple or quad screen layout. Each input also has audio inputs available via captive screw terminals. The one-rack unit high windowing switcher can be controlled from the front panel, via RS-232 or IP via the integrated GUI Control. The DV-MFMV-74 MultiVU 7×1 Windowing Switcher integrates with FSR’s HuddleVU FLEX Collaboration Systems.
- DV-MFSS-71: DV PRO – Seven Input Multi-Format Scaling Switcher – The DV-MFSS-71 is a 7×1 Scaling Switcher that has seven multi-format inputs (four HDMI, one DisplayPort, one DVI-I, and one VGA/RGB/YPbPr) and one HDMI out that supports scaled resolutions up to 4k x 2k 30hz. Each input also has audio inputs available via captive screw terminals and has a stereo output as well. The one-rack unit high scaling switcher can be controlled from the front panel, via RS232 or IP via the integrated GUI Control. The DV-MFSS-71 Seven Input Multi-Format Scaling Switcher integrates with FSR’s HuddleVU FLEX Collaboration Systems.
- DV-HSW4K-41 – The DV-HSW4K-41 is a 4×1 HDMI switcher that shares the same small footprint as its predecessor, the DV-HSW-41, but is capable of handling 4Kx2K. It can be controlled via front panel push-buttons or RS232. The DV-HSW4K-41 is part of FSR’s HuddleVU Collaboration Systems.
- DV-HSW-21A – The DV-HSW-21A is a 2×1 HDMI switcher capable of handling 4Kx2K resolutions in a small footprint. It has a locking 12v power supply and can be controlled via front panel push-buttons, contact closure, RS232 via Phoenix 3-pin, or auto-sensing. The unit provides LED feedback for contact closures and will work with FSR’s HuddleVU Table Boxes for a compact two HDMI HuddleVU System.
- DV-MFSW-21A – An HDMI + VGA & Audio to HDMI switcher, the DV-MFSW-21A is also capable of handling 4Kx2K resolutions in a small footprint, has a locking 12v power supply and can be controlled via front panel push-buttons, contact closure, or RS232 via Phoenix 3-pin, or auto-sensing. The
- DV-MFSW-21A provides LED Feedback for contact closures and will work with HuddleVU Table Boxes for a compact VGA & HDMI HuddleVU System.
- HD-HPC-SP-Tx – FSR’s new 100 Meter HDBaseT Slim-Pack HDMI & VGA with Audio Switcher Transmitter has both HDMI and VGA with audio inputs as well as bi-directional Control (IR & RS-232) and Ethernet. The switcher has built-in auto-sensing circuitry to determine the active input and also has a front panel Input Select Button and a captive-screw terminal on the rear for contact closure trigger. The
- HD-HPC-SP-Tx transmitter is a true HDBaseT 5-Play device that transmits HD Video (up to 4K @30hz.), audio, bi-directional control (IR & RS-232), Ethernet, and power via 1 CAT-6A shielded cable out to 100 meters. The HD-HPC-SP-Tx works with any of FSR’s other 100 Meter HDBaseT Receivers and can be powered from either end (Tx to Rx or Rx to TX). Bravo to FSR for actually doing 5-play!
- HD-HPCWP-Tx – FSR’s new 100 Meter HDBaseT two-gang Decora style wall plate transmitter is a true HDBaseT 5-Play device that transmits HD Video (up to 4K @30Hz), audio, bi-directional control (IR & RS-232), Ethernet and power via one CAT-6A shielded cable out to 100 meters. On the front of the wall plate it has an HDMI in and VGA Video In (HD-15 female) with audio In (1/8-inch Mini Jack), IR reader window, and input selector button. The HD-HPCWP-Tx is designed to work with any of FSR’s 100 Meter HDBaseT Receivers and receives its power from them as well. The rear of the wall plate contains Ethernet & HDBaseT RJ-45 Ports as well as captive screw terminals for IR-Out, RS-232, and +12v In & Out. The Ethernet and +12v Out have been designed to be used with FSR’s FLEX LT-200 3.5-inch Color Touch Panel with an integrated control system which can communicate back to your rack along with video, audio, and power all over 1 CAT-6A Shielded Cable up to 100 meters.
- The FLEX-IO16 I/O Interface Unit is a new addition to FSR’s Intelli-Tools line. It is a device that will provide 16 Ground Closure (switch) Inputs and 16 Lamp/LED Outputs as well as RS-232 & IP Communication to expand the control capabilities of FSR FLEX Controllers as well as interfacing with any third-party control system. The Serial & IP connections allow the IO-16 to function as an IP to Serial and Serial to IP translator/interface. The FLEX-IO16 I/O Interface Unit also has a GUI Control Program available that allows the set-up and programming of each of the 16 channels with its own command strings communicated during a button press, button release or button hold. It also controls the Lamp/LED feedback conditions for each of the 16 connections.
All of them can be found here. Leave a Comment
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Altinex Intros TNP355C Power Plus BoxAltinex has launched the new TNP355C Tilt ‘N Plug Power Plus Box that combines dual AC power outlets and dual USB charging ports in a chrome housing.
The new TNP355C is designed for mounting into tables, podiums, or other furniture and power and USB charging ports are accessed by pushing down on the top cover — allowing the unit to tilt open. When pressed again, the TNP355C’s top and the power sockets and USB ports are recessed into the table.
The TNP355C tabletop solution offers dual AC sockets capable of delivering up to 12 Amps AC along with two USB ports that can deliver up to 3 amps of charging power indicated by a green LED light. This tabletop solution was specially designed for use with USB compatible devices.
Here are all the specs. Leave a Comment
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SurgeX Adds Axess Manager Platform For Remote Mobile Power Monitoring and ManagementESP/SurgeX announced this month the Axess Manager Platform, a mobile power monitoring and management system that pairs with every IP enabled device on a network, including SurgeX Axess, Axess Elite and Axess Ready products, to create a smart and accessible energy management system available. SurgeX is also announcing shipping of its Axess Elite for international markets, with support for 16 amp CEE7/7 and 10 amp AS3112 electrical standards. The new solutions will be unveiled at InfoComm 2015 in booth 2153.
The enhanced platform from SurgeX includes Axess Manager and Axess Manager Mobile, new desktop and mobile apps designed to let users monitor power conditions and control power functions across multiple installations from a single location. These apps make it easy to identify power-related issues quickly and allow for simple navigation and management of existing installs, especially as new devices and systems are being added to the network.
SurgeX designed the mobile and desktop apps with admin tools that make it easy to manage device and user permissions without the need for separate licenses or paperwork. A single admin username and password is all that’s required to add or access any device on the network and activating or deactivating a user requires just a simple mouse click. If there is an issue or unauthorized actions taken through the app, the platform provides PDF or Excel reports documenting all system and user activity to quickly pinpoint the problem. Dealers can also customize the graphic user interface with their own logo and branding. The apps are available for free and work with iOS, Android and Windows desktop operating systems.
The Axess Manager Platform saves money by allowing integrators to hard reboot locked up equipment remotely, or to create a trigger to do it automatically, reducing one of the most common service call requests. Custom settings, scheduling and on/off controls can be configured on individual outlets and custom sequences can be created across the entire network with e-mail notifications sent about different issues, based on user-defined conditions. The system also collects temperature, voltage and current draw measurements and provides a detailed report of energy consumption by each connected device.
SurgeX will demo the Axess Manager Platform in booth 2153 at InfoComm 2015.
To download the Axess Manager Platform, go here. Leave a Comment
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Nureva Announces the Span Ideation System for Business – Collaboration, BYOD and Panoramic Projection In One Nureva just announced its first business product, the Nureva Span ideation system. Ideal for design, creative processes and business-process re-engineering, the Span ideation system combines a panoramic projector with a digital canvas to create an expansive 4′ by 40′ with 10′ visible (1.2×12.2 meters with 3.05 meters visible) team workspace. Ideation participants create their ideas on their personal devices, either a computer or tablet, and share them on the team workspace in the cloud. The system draws upon familiar, simple and flexible tools already widely used in paper-based ideation including sticky notes, images, pages and flip charts.
The digital canvas retains all of the flexibility that paper-based systems offer (e.g., large workspaces with persistent information) while overcoming many of the challenges (e.g., the awkwardness of physically moving large numbers of sticky notes, sticky notes that fall off the wall, inclusion of remote participants in the process, the need for transcription, and storage and retention of the work). The Span ideation system allows multiple teams to use a collaboration room that previously may have been dedicated to a single team for months.
The canvas offers 40′ (12.2 m) of digital space, with 10′ (3.05 m) visible on the panoramic display that can be panned horizontally. Users contribute content in the form of notes, pages, folios and images and organize content by moving and grouping.
Software is accessible on Chrome browsers and as apps on iOS and Android tablets to enable users to create digital artifacts and post them to the shared canvas.
Multiple types of digital artifacts can be created on a personal device or at the canvas:
- Note — This digital 3″ x 5″ (7.6×12.7 cm) sticky note allows users to enter up to three lines of text.
- Page — This digital 8.5″ x 11″ (21.6×27.9 cm) page for sketching and wire-framing comes with three different ink colors, a highlighter and an eraser.
- Folio — This large digital 32″ x 42″ (81.3×106.7 cm) flip chart for capturing notes, decisions and action items comes with three different ink colors, a highlighter and an eraser. One folio can contain multiple pages.
- Image — Users can post images to the canvas, then manipulate them panoramic projector.
The system’s HD panoramic projector features 3,000 lumens on an ultra-wide 130″ (330.2 cm) diagonal display in a 16:6 aspect ratio. A contrast ratio of 1,800:1 provides a consistent, high-performance color and rich viewing experience. Solid-state illumination (SSI) means instant-on/off and delivers the same useful life of 25,000 hours as most flat-panel displays. Touch and pen interactivity are provided by a touch module, supporting simultaneous multi-user and multi-touch activities.
The software has an annual subscription of $239 for a single-user license. The hardware (including the panoramic projector, projector wall mount, remote control, 2 pens and touch module) has a list of $9,999. All the details are here. Leave a Comment
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Atlona Debuts Eight-Input, Two-Output 4K MatrixAtlona wants its new AT-UHD-CLSO-824 to be used as the centerpiece of complex AV systems. The AT-UHD-CLSO-824 is an eight-input, two output, 4K/UHD@60 Hz with 4:2:0 color switcher with mirrored HDMI and HDBaseT outputs. It’s the latest addition in the company’s CLSO series of multi-format matrix switchers designed for commercial and education use, the CLSO-824 incorporates three HDBaseT and four HDMI inputs, one VGA analog video input and two HDBaseT outputs, each with a mirrored HDMI output — and it’s being aimed at conference rooms, classrooms, and training environments.
Some of the features aimed specifically at ProAV integrators include two microphone inputs with 48 V phantom power (integrated with mic ducking to automatically lower the audio level on the active AV input when someone speaks into the mic), Ethernet-enabled 328 ft. (100 m.) HDBaseT signal extension, 10 local RS232 ports, balanced analog stereo output and a web-based GUI for switcher configuration.)
The mirrored HDMI and HDBaseT outputs, it allows for an instructor reference monitor or additional room monitors to be connected. The AT-UHD-CLSO-824 accepts up to four digital sources — HDMI, DVI or DisplayPort — via four HDMI inputs, a multi-function analog input on 15-pin HD connectors with balanced audio input accepts analog sources in multiple video standards and multiple, bi-directional RS232 ports provide pass through device management from the control system.
Finally, three HDBaseT inputs are designed for use with Atlona’s AT-UHD-EX-100CE extender and the new HDVS transmitter series with PoE. Ethernet-enabled HDBaseT signal extension also route control signals from third-party control processors via HDBaseT along with 4K/UHD audio and video through a single cable up to 328 ft. (100 m.). The web interface for the AT-UHD-CLSO-824 enables EDID management for optimizing video resolution and audio delivery and allows HDCP management for using the switcher with compliant and non-compliant devices. The switcher, while provided with a handheld IR remote control, can also be controlled via third-party control systems using IR, IP or RS232 formats.
The switcher is 1U rack mountable (full rack width) and includes a desktop power supply with detachable power cable and an IR hand held remote control. It’s scheduled to ship by September 2015. More information will be here when it’s up. Leave a Comment
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New Visix Mobile Wayfinding App with Beacons and GeofencingVisix’s mobile wayfinding app provides responsive indoor navigation for smartphones. The app can be used as an extension of traditional kiosk-based wayfinding or as a stand-alone solution.
Each app is custom branded for the client organization and uses photography from the client’s own buildings. Picture-based guidance paired with simple directions moves employees, customers and visitors through the interior spaces quickly and easily.
The app communicates with proximity beacons strategically placed at directional milestones throughout your facility. As visitors walk through a building, beacons report their arrival at key areas, and the app provides turn-by-turn directions and other contextual content on their phone. The proximity beacons use low-energy Bluetooth to communicate with both iOS and Android devices. They can cover a range of up to 150 feet, are completely wireless, are easy to mount and run on AA batteries.
Our app also leverages a macro-location technology called geofencing that draws a perimeter around an outdoor building. Powered by a smartphone’s GPS, the app knows when the geofence is penetrated, and it then sends a push notification to that person’s phone.
Your visitors are welcomed upon their arrival at your building or campus with a pop-up notice on their smartphone, and just a tap of the screen provides access to instructions. Now you can greet people as they arrive at your building or campus and provide visual guidance from the parking lot to any space in your facility.
You can also deliver directories, event schedules, announcements and other dynamic content within the mobile app, providing another way for you to engage your audience with daily communications.
More information on Visix’s wayfinding solutions are here. Leave a Comment
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Extron Announces Select DTP Transmitters, Signal Processors and Presentation Switchers are HDBaseT CertifiedExtron has announced that select DTP products are now HDBaseT certified. The products include DTP T HWP 4K D, DTP T EU, and DTP T MK wallplate transmitters; DTP T FB floor box transmitters; Annotator 300 annotation processor; DTP CrossPoint 84 scaling presentation matrix switchers; IN1604 DTP four input scaler; and IN1608 HDBT scaling presentation switchers. They send video with embedded audio, and bidirectional RS232 and IR signals up to 230 feet (70 meters) or 330 feet (100 meters) over a shielded CATx cable. The DTP wallplate transmitters and DTP CrossPoint 84 support 4K resolutions. Certified models have been independently tested and verified to meet the performance requirements set by the HDBaseT Alliance. The range of certified Extron products allows AV installers to select the AV components that are best suited for system requirements, with the confidence that those units meet HDBaseT standards and will work with other certified products. Extron has added HDBaseT compatibility to a growing number of DTP products, including DTP transmitters, distribution amplifiers, scalers, switchers and matrix switchers.
The DTP Systems product family includes numerous different extender models in a wide variety of form factors and video formats, plus a broad offering of distribution amplifiers, switchers and matrix switchers with essential AV signal processing and control features. DTP Systems allow complete flexibility in designing systems precisely to application and budget requirements.
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Barix Adds Emergency Notification to Simple Paging Mobile AppBarix will introduce the next-generation of its Simple Paging solution for fixed and mobile paging over the IP network at InfoComm next month, retaining its simplicity and functionality while enhancing interoperability across greater public address systems.
At its core, Simple Paging reproduces live announcements from a desk or on the move (via a Barix Simple Paging app) with absolute clarity, giving end users an intelligible and flexible paging and communications tool. At InfoComm, Barix will demonstrate integration with emergency notification and background audio systems, bringing additional value to systems integrators who wish to marry multiple IP applications over a common networked platform. Barix will demonstrate these features at Booth 5059 on the InfoComm exhibit floor.
In addition to configurable emergency notification and background music sockets, a pre-gong chime has been added to master paging devices (such as the Barix Annuncicom PS1 or PS16). This feature captures audience attention prior to an important page or security announcement.
The all-in-one Simple Paging solution offers simple deployment for new and existing buildings, eliminating complex setup processes traditionally associated with IP systems. Multiple paging groups can be set up in as little as 10 minutes, with no need for in-depth IT knowledge; tags are easily associated with paging zones to establish groups. High-quality IP voice paging announcements can be made from paging stations, tablets and smartphones without further configuration once power, the network and loudspeakers are connected.
Simple Paging offers an especially compelling value proposition for systems integrators seeking a cost-effective solution to specify IP-based paging into new builds, or replace failing legacy solutions. With minimal wiring and few connections required, a single deployment brings legacy PA systems into the digital age, while protecting existing technology investments and adding new capabilities. End users and integrators alike can additionally scale the system without difficulty by adding new end points to the network.
In addition to mobile integration, flexible targeting allows users in offices, small business, K-12 schools and in hospitality environments to direct announcements to specific devices, zones and areas. Furthermore, Simple Paging connects disparate PA systems on large campuses onto a single network to ensure unified messaging.
A typical Simple Paging solution features a Barix Annuncicom PS16 master paging station and Barix Exstreamer IP decoders at end points, along with the Barix Simple Paging mobile app. Barix’s trademark high audio quality ensures clear messaging across the local area network regardless of the speaker’s location.
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For all you REGULAR readers of rAVe ED [Education] out there, hopefully you enjoyed another opinion-packed issue!
For those of you NEW to rAVe, you just read how we are — we are 100 percent opinionated. We not only report the news and new product stories of the ProAV industry, but we stuff the articles full of our opinions. That may include (but is not limited to) whether or not the product is even worth looking at, challenging the manufacturers on their specifications, calling a marketing-spec bluff and suggesting ways integrators market their products better. But, one thing is for sure, we are NOT a trade publication that gets paid for running editorial or product stories. Traditional trade publications get paid to run product stories — that’s why you see what you see in most of the pubs out there. We are different: We run what we want to run and NO ONE is going to pay us to write anything good (or bad).
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Everything we publish is opt-in — we spam NO ONE! rAVe ProAV Edition is our flagship publication with what we believe is a reach of virtually everyone in the ProAV market. rAVe HomeAV Edition is co-published with CEDIA, covering the HomeAV market. We added rAVe Rental [and Staging] in November 2007, rAVe ED [Education] in May 2008 and then rAVe DS [Digital Signage] in January 2009. We added rAVe GHGav [Green, Healthcare & Government AV] in August 2010 and rAVe HOW [House of Worship] in July 2012. You can subscribe to any of those publication or see ALL our archives by going to: https://www.ravepubs.com
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