Volume 9, Issue 12 — December 8, 2016
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CCUMC 2016: Were You there?
By Scott Tiner rAVe Columnist
At the beginning of November, I attended the CCUMC conference in San Antonio, Tex. For those of you who don’t know what CCUMC is, you should check out the website here. In a nutshell, it is a group developed and lead by Technology Managers in higher education. The group has a mission of providing a forum for sharing information and ideas relating to educational technology. In a way, it is a baby (infant, really) of InfoComm.
The beauty of the conference that I discovered is the fact that is is so small. I estimated about 250 people attended the conference. I would also estimate about 20-30 exhibitors, although I could be wrong about that — there could be more, I did not take an exact count. With a conference of this size, it allowed me to connect with people, including other people in the technology field at higher ed, along with vendors and manufacturers. When I say connect, I mean connect in a meaningful way that does not happen at the very large trade shows.
An example is my introduction to the Kramer VIA-Pad. As I walked around the exhibits, I spoke individually with the representatives. They listened to me and asked questions. At the Kramer table we talked about how I have several VIAs on my campus. Well, do you have the Pad, they asked? I had no idea what they were asking, so we started talking. Come to find out, this little device is very cool and solves a significant issue we have dealt with on campus. In particular, we often have guest speakers. These guest speaker typically want to use their own computers, but have never tested out how they work when connected to an AV system. Additionally, they want to use the wireless network for their presentation. Both of these needs cause problems for us as we try to support the event. The Pad (NOT to be called a PUCK, I was gently reminded) connects into a USB connection on the presenter’s laptop and connects wirelessly to the VIA. Yeah, yeah, I said, we have seen those from other vendors. Yes, they pointed out, but this is at a very attractive price point. Second, they showed me how you can “sync” the Pad with a VIA and it carries with it the SSID and user account information for your wireless network. OK, now they had me interested. We talked more and more, and by the time I left the table I had texted back to the home base, let’s get a VIA-Pad and try it out. At a large trade show, one or two things would have happened that would have been different. First, I would have wandered aimlessly around a booth with hundreds of other people and maybe not even seen the Pad. Second, if I had seen the Pad, I would not have know the price point, and I would not have known that it carries network information as well. The value of speaking directly, and unrushed, with the reps was valuable to me, and I believe in the end will be valuable to companies who sent representatives. This experience was repeated over and over again as I spoke with reps from FSR, Extron, Crestron and D-Tools.
A second experience that I appreciated was connecting with people on a personal level. The representatives at this conference are treated equal to the attendees. That is, they attend presentations they are interested in, they eat breakfast, lunch and dinner with you. You see them walking on the streets and they recognize and talk with you. Again, all of this building relationships for future needs.
As a manufacturer who wants to connect directly with people from higher ed, this is the best way for you to meet and connect with your potential clients. There are no large booths, or expensive parties, like you see at the other conferences (although, I am not complaining about those!). Therefore, sending two or three representatives to this conference is very cost effective and provides a strong return on investment. If you are a consulting firm that does business nationally, or desires to, then this is even more important for you. The best advertising you can give yourself is a face to face audience with a couple hundred people who are interested in your services.
Next year’s conference takes place in Indiana, so start planning for your trip now! Leave a Comment
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Misaligned and Disarrayed
By Frederick Ampel President & Principal, Technology Visions Analytics
Suppose for a moment you were a line array loudspeaker product. Genetically speaking, your DNA could have come from more than 150 different manufacturers, which collectively produce over 350 products (including all passive and active systems sold as “line arrays”), based on a survey of the products listed for sale on the half-dozen primary on-line sources for pro-audio gear.
You could have been manufactured or assembled from — as the auto industry likes to say — “globally sourced parts” on almost every continent on this planet except perhaps Antarctica (and I’m not sure than won’t happen if somebody gets a government grant).
You could be active or passive, powered by almost every conceivable style and type of amplifier configuration and contain anything from simple passive LF/HF shading controls to extremely complex networkable DSP.
You could be connected to a complex multi-node high speed facility wide network or operate as a stand alone system connected to nothing except audio signal sources components.
You could have the mass of a small Steinway per element or be a micro-sized cabinet designed to almost disappear when properly painted and suspended.
You could also be a set of loudspeaker parts mislabeled by a marketing department as a line array, when your actual acoustical performance in no way resembles that of the actual coverage and response parameters of a “real” line array configuration.
At this point it should be obvious that there are a stupendous number of possible things you could be, some of which might actually resemble the acoustical physics definition of what a line array type source should be.
“Everybody makes one so our company should make one too.”
We have considerably more products in this category than could reasonably be supported by even an incredibly robust industry, and thus what we have ended up with is a large quantity of products that exist for no other reason than “everybody (whoever that might include) makes one so our company should make one too.” I think even a casual analysis of that product development rationale would yield a “why.”
(To be fair, there are a few companies that have not jumped into the pool on this product type, but they are most certainly the exception rather than the rule.)
With this humongous quantity of product across a sizeable price spread, it is almost inevitable that these products get deployed into far too many projects, simply because they are so heavily promoted and marketed given the level of competitive pressure in the market and the resources used to make them exist.
“Integrators are simply throwing product at a project.”
They are far too often presented as “the solution” — even if they are the wrong choice for the space, application and/or venue. Given the number of venues I have visited where these systems are used (and it is without question that they were not the right choice if any rational thought had been expended on the design consideration or requirements), it is painfully evident that integrators are simply throwing product at a project, because there are so many other similar projects that have used the same approach.
This thought process and rationale has no actual basis for support other than something like “all the other churches in town are using one” or some similar logical fallacy.
What has been lost in this rush to deploy a technology is the real work of analyzing the needs of the customer, the facility and the users. Instead of doing a logical and sensible examination of what the venue might really require or frankly need, we are reaching for a boilerplate answer because we have the designs and can capitalize on re-using the same already paid for work again and again.
It’s sort of like what has happened in too many instances within certain areas of medicine or surgery. Doctors and surgeons go for the easy answer or most promoted drug or therapy because it takes less time, is accepted by the insurance companies and requires little or no actual evaluation of what might be the correct solution. Thus it’s frankly cheaper, faster and easier — but not necessarily medically correct or necessary.
“Doctors continued to do the operations because insurers pay.”
If you don’t believe me, do a browser search on “unnecessary surgery” and see what comes up. For example, read this revealing article. In another similar study was this very revealing comment, from Dr. David Kallmes of the Mayo Clinic, which ties directly into the above statements about line array usage, “said he thought doctors continued to do the operations because insurers pay.” Sound familiar?
As an industry we need to back up and re-think this whole process and get back to what we know is right, professionally correct and ethically sound. Every project, venue, and client deserves the benefit of our hard-won expertise and knowledge in determining what the BEST and most practical solution to their sound reinforcement needs is, not the easy way out!
There are absolutely situations in which a line array solution is the best answer, but there are just as many in which it’s not. Just because we have an enormous variety of such products to pick from does not mean it is or should be the first choice. We owe it to our clients to provide the appropriate answer to their needs, and we have a responsibility to explain why we have chosen a particular solution and demonstrate how it best solves their problem in a fiscally responsible way.
It is increasingly obvious that too many members of our industry have forgotten this creed.
“STOP! Think about the real needs of the client.”
The next time you are tempted to reach for the last design you deployed in a particular style of venue or system, STOP! Think about what the real needs of the client are and what they are paying you for — your expertise and your knowledge of how to correctly and efficiently solve their specific problem.
“Maybe the correct solution is a line array.”
Maybe the correct solution is a line array — but I’ll wager that it’s probably not. Leave a Comment
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Samsung Acquires HARMAN, Including AMX, JBL, Crown and AKG Click here to see Gary Kayye’s thoughts about this acquisition.
Samsung Electronics and Harman International today announced that they have entered into a definitive agreement under which Samsung will acquire HARMAN for $112.00 per share in cash, or total equity value of approximately $8.0 billion. Upon closing, the transaction will immediately give Samsung a significant presence in the large and rapidly growing market for connected technologies, particularly automotive electronics, which has been a strategic priority for Samsung, and is expected to grow to more than $100 billion by 2025. HARMAN is the market leader in connected car solutions, with more than 30 million vehicles currently equipped with its connected car and audio systems, including embedded infotainment, telematics, connected safety and security. Approximately 65 percent of HARMAN’s $7.0 billion of reported sales during the 12 months ended September 30, 2016 are automotive-related, and its order backlog for this market at June 30, 2016 was approximately $24 billion.
HARMAN’s experience designing and integrating sophisticated in-vehicle technologies, as well as its long-term relationships with most of the world’s largest automakers, will create significant growth opportunities for the combined business by enabling it to leverage Samsung’s expertise in connected mobility, semiconductors, user experience, displays and its global distribution channels. In addition, the combination of HARMAN’s brands and audio capabilities and Samsung’s expertise in consumer electronics will deliver enhanced customer benefits and elevate user experiences across Samsung’s complete portfolio of consumer and professional products and systems.
“HARMAN perfectly complements Samsung in terms of technologies, products and solutions, and joining forces is a natural extension of the automotive strategy we have been pursuing for some time,” said Oh-Hyun Kwon, vice chairman and chief executive officer of Samsung Electronics. “As a Tier 1 automotive supplier with deep customer relationships, strong brands, leading technology and a recognized portfolio of best-in-class products, HARMAN immediately establishes a strong foundation for Samsung to grow our automotive platform. Dinesh Paliwal is a proven global leader and, in our extensive discussions, we have developed deep respect for him, his strong senior leadership team and HARMAN’s talented employees. HARMAN’s sustained track record of rapid growth fueled by technology leadership and an unmatched automotive order pipeline reflects its commitment to innovation and customers.”
“The vehicle of tomorrow will be transformed by smart technology and connectivity in the same way that simple feature phones have become sophisticated smart devices over the past decade,” added Young Sohn, president and chief strategy officer of Samsung Electronics. “We see substantial long-term growth opportunities in the auto technology market as demand for Samsung’s specialized electronic components and solutions continues to grow. Working together, we are confident that HARMAN can become a new kind of Tier 1 provider to the OEMs by delivering end-to-end solutions across the connected ecosystem.”
Dinesh Paliwal, HARMAN chairman, president and CEO, stated, “This compelling all-cash transaction will deliver significant and immediate value to our shareholders and provide new opportunities for our employees as part of a larger, more diversified company. Today’s announcement is a testament to what we have achieved and the value that we have created for shareholders. Samsung is an ideal partner for HARMAN and this transaction will provide tremendous benefits to our automotive customers and consumers around the world. Combining Samsung’s strengths in leading-edge displays, connectivity and processing solutions with HARMAN’s technology leadership and long-standing customer relationships will enable OEMs to provide new offerings for their customers. Partnerships and scale are essential to winning over the long term in automotive as demand for robust connected car and autonomous driving solutions increases at a rapid pace. This transaction will bring HARMAN and Samsung’s complementary strengths together to accelerate innovation in this space. More broadly, this investment underscores the strength of HARMAN’s employees, as well as our success and leadership across our markets. We look forward to working together with Samsung to elevate experiences for consumers worldwide.”
Here was Samsung’s summary of the acquisition:
- Automotive: Combining HARMAN’s leadership in new connected car technologies, including its top positions in infotainment, cyber security, over-the-air updates and telematics, with Samsung’s significant expertise and experience in connectivity technologies, including 5G, UX/UI, display technology and security solutions, will enhance HARMAN’s automotive and connected services businesses to drive greater sales and provide significant benefits as automakers speed the adoption of next-generation connected cars.
- Audio: HARMAN’s leading brands and cutting-edge audio systems include JBL, Harman Kardon, Mark Levinson, AKG, Lexicon, Infinity, and Revel. The company also licenses Bowers & Wilkins and Bang & Olufsen brands for automotive. All of these brands will greatly enhance the competitiveness of Samsung’s mobile, display, virtual reality and wearable products to deliver a fully differentiated audio and visual experience for customers.
- Professional: The combination will also expand the combined company’s business-to-business platform through its ability to deliver integrated, large-scale audio and visual professional solutions at stadiums, concert facilities and other performance centers such as The John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts and STAPLES Center – home of the GRAMMY Awards.
- Connected Services: Samsung will gain access to HARMAN’s 8,000 software designers and engineers who are unlocking the potential of the IoT market. This collaboration will deliver the next generation of cloud-based consumer and enterprise experiences, as well as end-to-end services for the automotive market through the convergence of design, data and devices.
Operating Structure and Leadership
Upon closing, HARMAN will operate as a standalone Samsung subsidiary, and continue to be led by Dinesh Paliwal and HARMAN’s current management team. Samsung is pursuing a long-term growth strategy in automotive electronics, and plans to retain HARMAN’s work force, headquarters and facilities, as well as all of its consumer and professional audio brands. Samsung believes the combination will increase career development and advancement opportunities for the employees of both companies.
Samsung’s Automotive Electronics Business Team, which was established in December of 2015 to identify opportunities for Samsung in the automotive sector, will work closely with the HARMAN management team to realize the full growth potential of the combination.
The purchase price represents a premium of 28 percent based on HARMAN’s closing stock price on November 11, 2016 and a 37 percent premium to HARMAN’s 30-calendar day volume weighted average price ending November 11, 2016. Samsung expects to use cash on hand to fund the transaction. The agreement has been unanimously approved by the boards of directors of both companies.
The transaction, which is subject to approval by HARMAN shareholders, regulatory approvals and other customary closing conditions, is expected to close in mid-2017.
Harman is here and Samsung is here. Leave a Comment
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Altinex Expands UT260 Series Under Table Switcher Product LineAltinex announced three new additions to the company’s UT260 Series of under table switchers: the UT260-102, UT260-103 and UT260-104.
The new Altinex UT260-102 is a multi-format switcher with HDMI, VGA and Display Port (DP) input capability outputting to HDMI with de-embedded audio. The UT260-102 offers multi-format inputs to accommodate VGA, DisplayPort, VGA, and HDMI signals and, for remote control purposes, supports RS232 and Contact Closure. The switcher supports HDMI 2.0 with 4K@30Hz or 4K@60Hz 4:2:0 and provides RS232, button or contact closure for switching between sources as well as Auto or Manual switching modes. On the output side, the UT260-102’s de-embedded analog audio allows for feeding to an external sound system along with an output mute function.
The Altinex UT260-103 is a 3×1 multi-format switcher with HDMI, VGA and Display Port inputs to HDBaseT output. The audio port is independent and can be embedded into any of the video signals and sent to the far end and it offers web server support and can be controlled by button, LAN, RS232, contact closure and IR. The unit transmits audio, video, and control data up to 70 meters over a single Cat 6, Cat 6A or Cat 7 cable and provides support for HDMI 4Kx2K and 3D feeds as well as DP 1.2 with 4K@30Hz.
Designed as the companion unit to the UT260-103, the UT260-104 receiver is part of Altinex’s Multi Video HDBaseT Cat Extender system. Single side connections for HDMI, control and power and the design enables the system to be powered via a DC adapter from either side. With a single CAT 5e/6/7 cable, the UT260-104 can be positioned up to 230 feet away with 1080p@60 Hz, 48-bit color depth signal while providing support for bi-directional RS232 and IR control.
All three will ship this month and the list prices are $380 for the UT260-102, $425 for the UT260-103 and $240 for the UT260-104 and details are here. Leave a Comment
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WPS Adds File Sharing, Presenting and Recording in iOS AppWPS Office Software today announced new features in the iOS version of its complete office productivity suite, offering iPhone users more file sharing, presenting and recording features.
WPS Office for iOS is part of the WPS Office Suite — an office productivity suite with Writer, Presentation, Spreadsheets and a PDF reader — available for Windows and Linux PCs, as well as Android and iOS mobile devices.
The new features in WPS Office for iOS include:
- File Transfer — File Transfer is a unique feature that allows users to send files to and from their computer and iOS device. Easily created by entering the IP address provided, into the computer’s browser — users simply drag and drop files from computer to iPhone, and those same files can be transferred back to the computer.
- Wire Projection — The new Wire Projection capability turns an iOS device into a presenter. Using a wired connection and VGA/HDMI adapter, users can project a presentation from their iOS device to a TV/Projector/Display, enabling them to view it on a full screen that can be easily shared with others. The WPS Wire Projection has been optimized to ensure maximum resolution despite various Projector/TV screen size.
- Wireless Projection — Wireless Projection helps those who don’t have a dongle for their iPhone or iPad. Users can simply send their presentations to any Smart Connect TV (DLNA) or Airplay device.
- Record PPT — With Record PPT, users can create video content from presentations that can be posted to YouTube or delivered as webinars for example. From within Record PPT, a user selects a file and is then prompted to record his/her voice while presenting the slides. When finished, the recorded slides, along with any drawings/markings made by the user and the user’s voice, are saved as an MP4 file.
You can download it here. Leave a Comment
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Extron Intros DIN Rail-Mountable IP Link Pro Control Processors Extron just added more to its DIN Rail-Mountable product line with the introduction of the IPCP Pro 350DR and IPCP Pro 355DR. These high-performance, DIN-rail-mountable control processors are designed for centralized AV control in mid-sized applications. As with all IP Link Pro Series control processors, both feature advanced security standards and Gigabit Ethernet, which ensures compatibility with multiple TouchLink Pro touchpanels using a standard network infrastructure. The IPCP Pro 355DR features a secure, dedicated AV LAN port designed to control local AV devices and safeguard them from outside intrusion. The IPCP Pro 350DR and IPCP Pro 355DR can be used with Extron LinkLicense, which further adds to the capabilities of Extron Pro Series control systems. Either processor would be an ideal choice for controlling multiple devices and signal types within AV systems while providing the flexibility of DIN rail mounting.
The Extron IPCP Pro 350DR and IPCP Pro 355DR can be configured using Global Configurator Plus or Global Configurator Professional software or programmed using Extron Global Scripter. For enterprise-wide applications, GlobalViewer Enterprise can provide centralized AV resource monitoring, management, and control over a computer network. The IPCP Pro 350DR and IPCP Pro 355DR can communicate with multiple TouchLink Pro touchpanels over a standard Ethernet network allowing utilization of existing network infrastructure.
Here are all the detailed specs. Leave a Comment
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$299 WAVE Turns Any TV or Monitor Into an Interactive TouchScreen DisplayYes, you read that right. For $299 (well, $249 for a limited time), a company called TouchJet out of Singapore (with an office in San Francisco) has invented (and is shipping) a product they are calling WAVE. WAVE is a small camera you place at the top of a display and it has an extension with an IR lens that is calibrated to size (20″ to 65″) of monitor you are using. It connects to the display via an HDMI port and turns any monitor out TV into a touch-screen. And, it actually works!
The WAVE is a bit more than just a camera — I over-simplified it above. It’s like a small set-top box that contains a 2.0GHz Quad-Core ARM Cortex-A9 chip, a built-in optical touch sensor, support four simultaneous touch points (or you can use the included stylus if you’d prefer not to use your fingers) and uses an Android 4.4 OS. Set-up takes less than 10 minutes and it connects via Wi-Fi to any network.
It’s targeted towards the consumer market for people who want to turn their TV’s into touch-screens but, schools are already spec’ing the product as a cheap way to turn anything in to a touch-screen. And, for $299, you can understand why.
The hitch? you have to use the built-in Android player (yes, the WAVE is like a giant Android tablet) so you can’t use your own computer. But, the Android App store (aka Google Play store) has over 2.2 million apps so that includes Skype, PowerPoint, Maps, Word, Excel, etc.
Here are more details. Leave a Comment
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Extron Launches New SMB 210 Low Profile Surface Mount Boxes for Extron Flex55 and EU Products Extron SMB 210 Series Low Profile Surface Mount Boxes are two-gang to four-gang enclosures for external mounting of Flex55 products, including active EU modules such as EBP eBUS button panels, DTP transmitters, and a wide variety of blank and pass‑through connectivity modules. SMB 210 Series surface mount boxes have a stylish, contoured, low profile design that complements any environment, bringing convenient access to power, connectors and control to lecterns, tabletops, and other flat surfaces. The optional Table Clamp Kit secures SMB 210 boxes to table edges without marring the surface. SMB 210 Series surface mount boxes are compatible with Extron’s Flex55 and EU products.
Here are the details. Leave a Comment
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Marantz Debuts Portable Headset AmplifierThe new Marantz PHA-3 Stereo Field Production Headphone Amplifier provides three independent headphone feeds from balanced or unbalanced sources and can drive headphones to high levels at audiophile quality with low distortion — ideal for field broadcast production companies, portable audio/video production crews and live sound productions where critical audio monitoring is required, even under high SPL conditions. The PHA3 features a rugged metal case and the ability to daisy-chain additional units utilizing the Loop outputs.
Features include:
- Three independent headphone outputs with individual level controls
- Balanced XLR inputs or 1/4″ and 3.5mm stereo inputs
- Switchable stereo or mono operation
- 1/4″ Loop output for daisy-chaining additional units in series for extra outputs
- Parallel 3.5mm and 1/4″ outputs with two additional 1/4″ outputs
- Internal power (2x AA) or external power (5-17VDC) with seamless switchover
- GREEN LED indicates power with good battery, RED indicates low battery power
- LED turns RED to warn when four hours of battery life remain
- Rugged aluminum chassis with strap loops for wearing or mounting
Here are the details. Leave a Comment
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BEHRINGER Ships KM Series Power Amps BEHRINGER is shipping two new stereo models, the 1,700-watt KM1700 and 750-watt KM750, both integrated with ATR (Accelerated Transient Response) technology. BEHRINGER says its ATR technology merges power with high-tech efficiency, creating lightweight amplifiers.
The KM1700 is specified as 1,700 watts (bridged) with two 800-watt channels at 4 ohms or two 500-watt channels at 8 ohms into a 27.5 lbs/12.5 kg package, while the KM750 provides 750 watts bridged with two 400-watt channels into 4 ohms or two 200-watt chanenls into 8 ohms, weighing 18.7 lbs/8.5 kg. In addition, both have switchable limiters for overload protection and use XLR and 1/4″ TRS input connectors for compatibility with any source. List prices for the KM1700 and KM750 are $199.99 and $149.99, respectively.
All the specs are here. Leave a Comment
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Sennheiser Creates SC 660 TC High Performance Headset for Special Hearing Needs Sennheiser has created the SC 660 TC, a premium double-sided wired headset for office professionals that use hearing aids. The latest addition to Sennheiser’s high quality Century wired headset series, the SC 660 TC is compatible with all standard, telecoil-equipped hearing aids. The durable and brilliantly comfortable headset brings all the benefits of the range to users with special hearing needs, improving their communication experience and productivity.
With Sennheiser Voice Clarity wideband sound and its ultra noise canceling microphone, the SC 660 TC delivers a natural voice experience that makes conversations clear — optimizing speech intelligibility even in noisy contact center and office environments. In addition to the speaker, SC 660 TC is equipped with a hearing aid-compatible telecoil transmitter on each side of the headset, resulting in a better sound experience and offering the user the greater flexibility of a double-sided solution. The transmitters send a magnetic field that can be picked up directly by the hearing aid, making it easy for users to focus on a conversation without the distractions of background noise.
As a Century series headset, the SC 660 TC uses a high-quality neodymium speaker for outstanding HD sound quality. This can work alongside the enhanced listening experience offered by the telecoil. The headset features Sennheiser ActiveGard technology that protects users from acoustic shock and sudden sound bursts.
Here are all the specs. Leave a Comment
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Studio Technologies Releases Model 44D Dante Audio Interface Studio Technologies just introduced the new Model 44D, an audio interface that takes two channels of analog line-level audio to and from applications that utilize Dante audio-over-Ethernet media networking technology. Two Model 44D units can also provide one-to-one signal paths, two in each direction, over a standard local area network (LAN).
Dante audio-over-Ethernet provides an easy-to-use, high-quality audio “backbone” for a variety of fixed and field audio infrastructures, with deployment increasing dramatically over recent years. The Model 44D is a general-purpose tool that helps to expand Dante’s capabilities to facilities and equipment that primarily support signals in the analog domain and its key features reflect this. The Model 44D also supports transport of contact closures or status signals between Model 44Ds and other compatible products. Each unit provides two general-purpose inputs (GPIs) and two general-purpose outputs (GPOs). In-band audio signals (20 kHz tones) are used to transport the signals through the Dante paths.
Two line-level audio inputs use standard three-pin female XLR connectors for easy interfacing with balanced and unbalanced sources. The input audio signals are converted to 24-bit digital and then transported via the Dante interface. Two digital audio signals arrive via the Model 44D’s Dante interface and are then converted to analog. Two three-pin male XLR connectors on the unit’s back panel provide balanced line-level outputs. A nine-pin D-subminiature connector, also located on the back panel, is used to interface with the GPI and GPO signals.
For compatibility with SMPTE and EBU applications, a configuration choice allows the nominal level of the input signals to be +4 or 0 dBu. The unit provides two analog line-level output channels, which can also be set to +4 or 0 dBu. Both inputs and outputs are electronically balanced, capacitor coupled and ESD (static) protected.
The Model 44D provides four 5-segment LED meters located on the front panel. These display the level of the audio signals associated with the two line inputs and two line outputs. At the time of installation and setup, the meters are invaluable in helping to confirm correct operation. During normal operation the meters offer direct confirmation of the unit’s audio signal levels, helping to ensure optimal audio quality.
The Model 44D’s operating power can be provided by way of the Ethernet interface using the Power-over-Ethernet (PoE) standard. The unit can also be powered using an external source of 12 volts DC. The Model 44D connects to a data network using a standard 100 Mb/s twisted-pair Ethernet interface, with the physical interconnection made by way of a Neutrik etherCON RJ45 connector. The compact, lightweight enclosure is applicable for tabletop or portable applications. To support rack-mounting optional front panels are also available.
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The Founder of projectiondesign Debuts New Projector Company Dubbed norxeUsing all lower-case letter again, the founder of projectiondesign, Jorn Eriksen, launched another projector company in the form of norxe. norxe is debuting on the market first with a lineup of projectors aimed at simulation but have plans to expand the line by ISE.
Located in Fredrikstad, Norway, where projectiondesign was started, Eriksen has assembled many of the originals from projectiondesign to launch the company and says that they are aiming for high-end projection including simulation, VR (virtual reality), control rooms and medical applications — all above 4,000 lumens.
The first model, launched this week, is the P1. The norxe P1 projector is spec’d at 4,000 ANSI lumens using solid-state LED illumination. ISE in Amsterdam will be their big roll-out and they are looking for dealers.
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Sharp Intros New Value-Priced Digital Signage Lineup Sharp today announced its new PN-Y professional-grade signage series, a value-priced solution for small and mid-sized digital signage needs. Available in 55″ Class (54.6″ diagonal), 49″ Class (48.5″ diagonal), 43″ Class (42.5″ diagonal) and 32″ Class (31.6″ diagonal), the new PN-Y series are designed to be entry-level priced.
The new PN-Y556/Y496/Y436/Y326 professional LCD displays are an economical alternative to the PN-R series announced in October 2016. It also replaces the previous PN-Y series at an approximately 30 percent lower price point and is perfect for cost-conscious small and mid-sized businesses looking for durability and optimal performance.
Among its features, the PN-Y series has one of the most versatile mounting and orientation flexibility in the industry, allowing for face up, face down, tilted forward or tilted backward installation as well as in landscape or portrait orientation. Other key features include a built-in media player that allows for PC-free content playback from USB memory devices or optional SD cards and the ability to distribute content via software and schedule it as needed. Users can easily create their own signage by taking files in JPEG and WMV formats and delivering it via USB or LAN to various displays.
Additionally, the new PN-Y series features a narrow bezel width as small as 9.5 millimeters, making it slimmer than its predecessor models. The PN-Y556, PN-Y436 and PN-Y326 displays will begin shipping in late December. The PN-Y496 display is expected to ship in January 2017. Here are all the specs. Leave a Comment
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PixelFLEX Intros Front Serviceable FLEXUltra 1.2mm LED video PixelFLEX just announced the release of their FLEXUltra 1.2mm LED video technology. This new product includes fully front serviceable LED video signage panels. In addition, they are “curve-able” LEDs with each frame manufactured specifically for the installation. Utilizing the ideal tile size for deployment of both 16:9 and 4:3 video ratios, FLEXUltra has a 160° horizontal and vertical viewing angle which would be one of the highest off axis viewing angles in the industry, and the fully front-serviceable panels allow for quick and easy onsite installation and maintenance. FLEXUltra panels are now available in 1.2mm, 1.6mm and 1.9mm pixel pitch options.
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Arthur Holm Debuts New DB2 Retractable Monitor Arthur Holm’s DB2 is a new retractable monitor range that creates minimum impact on the furniture design as it’s only 20 mm thin (0.78”). Designed to be easy to integrate, intuitive to use (one aligned aluminum button) and almost invisible (no cover plate) when not in operation, the DB2 are purpose-built to be discreetly integrated into the meeting room table, disappearing within the desk with a completely silent drive motor.
Completely designed and furnished in anodized aluminum, the range offers a minimal and contemporary look. Aluminum is a durable surface; it is extremely resilient and it also serves to dissipate heat, plus the anodized finish provides a soft, silky effect. Arthur Holm says that the front double anti-reflection glass protects the screen, reduces the “mirror” effect, increases the contrast and allows for natural transparent colors.
DB2 is powered with a low consumption video controller and has a new easy to read Interactive Set-Up Display (ISD) 2.2” LCD. This allows local and remote configuration, operation and troubleshooting without having to remove the monitor from the furniture. The AHnet (RS-422) communication protocol has been updated and now includes the remote control of the monitor’s brightness, contrast and backlight.
When connected to the AH ERT interface the assisted addressing system enables address configuration (by simply pressing a button). It includes an Autocheck feature for auto diagnostic and internal protection functions as well as embedded speed and protection pre-sets (enabling a rapid reset to factory values if required) and a USB port for local firmware upgrade.
This new product range is available in 17.3” and in 21.5” both with 1920×1080 resolution with two DVI HDCP-compliant inputs. Detailed specs are here. Leave a Comment
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BREAKFAST Offers Old-School Flip-Disc Display SystemFor companies looking for an inexpensive alternative to covering a wall in LED screens, the so-called Flip-Disc Display System from BREAKFAST is an interesting product. The Flip-Disc Display System is a kinetic screen that’s been built to be fast and easy, not requiring a team of engineers and developers to get up and running. Basically discs flip (back and forth) to form an image using colored discs (in a variety of off-the-shelf colors and finishes). The casing are available in satin-black or white. In fact, it’s sort of like a GIANT version of a DMD (digital mirror device) from Texas Instruments’ DLP technology in that the discs actually flip (as individual pixels) close to 30 times a second.
This video helps explain what we’re talking about.
The BREAKFAST software is capable of displaying video files along with static images and text (and text can be interacted with via the included 3D depth camera). It includes a built-in scheduler that allows programing of content by time of day or via sequence and developers can use the API to push any custom content directly to the screen.
The mounting bar provides a flexible way to hang the panels. It can be flush mounted to a wall, hung from cables or a wall stud, attached to scaffolding, and many others. The support bar also features threaded holes on the front face, allowing for a custom facade to be placed overtop. And butterfly brackets are also available for attaching to a support structure from behind.
Here are all the tech specs. Leave a Comment
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Eiki Debuts 6500 Lumen EK- 620U/621W Laser Projectors Eiki just announced the new EK-620U WUXGA (1920×1200) and EK-621W WXGA (1280×800) laser-phosphor projectors; both 6,500 lumen of brightness, a spec of a 100,000:1 contrast ratio. Both are also IP6X dust ingress test rated and include the ability to send content via a LAN (Local Area Network), HDBaseT, DVI-D, VGA and HDMI. Control can be network-based, RS232 or, of course, IR. In addition, the projectors have a USB Type A connector — enabling them to operate over the network using a Wi-Fi dongle.
Eiki’s EK-620U/621W laser projectors offers horizontal and vertical lens shift as well as corner keystone correction. There are six optional lenses available for use with throw/width ratios from 0.75-8.4 and the lenses also are interchangeable with the EK-810U/811W and EK-610U/611W/612X.
Both of the EIKI EK-620U and 621W projectors list at $11,995 and $8,995 without the lens and all the detailed specs are here. Leave a Comment
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DPA Microphones Changes Their Base DPA Microphones has introduced a new Microphone Base; a new stand for its d:screet SC4098 Podium Microphone. The DPA d:screet Podium Microphone, which features a miniature d:screet supercardioid capsule that combines controlled directionality with rejection of background noise through its linear frequency response, now as a new Microphone Base that’s designed to be a more versatile stand for the mic.
Designed to be placed on a table or podium, or attached to the ceiling or even the wall, the Microphone Base is available in two colors — black and white — and comes with either a MicroDot connector, an XLR connector or unterminated leads for connections to Phoenix blocks. The d:screet capsule is mounted on a sleek boom that, for the tabletop version, has a gooseneck at the top and the bottom, thus allowing users to position the mic exactly where they want it. The ceiling version consists of one gooseneck. In both versions, the cable can exit to the side of, or beneath the unit.
Here are the specs. Leave a Comment
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Shuttle Announces New XPC Nano NS02 Line of ARM-Based Digital Media Players Shuttle Computer announces its latest line of ARM-based media player, the XPC Nano NS02, designed for standalone digital signage when a simple playback is required. Their 0.5-liter form factor, VESA-ready mount, fanless design means they’re virtually silent and can be tucked away behind any monitor quickly.
The NS02 series supports 4K Ultra HD displays (3840×2160) and is pre-installed with Android 5.1.1 and Shuttle’s software DS Creator 2.0 so users can easily schedule and dispatch their content to any of the NS02 series players through their mobile devices.
The NS02 series is equipped with Rockchip RK3368 Qcta-core processor. Its compact design with built-in DDR3L 2GB low-voltage memory effectively reduces power consumption of the system.
These new players also offer an auto recovery feature, which protects content in the event of a system-wide power failure. When the power is cut, these players “park” the existing memory data, so when power returns, the player is ready to resume without risk of data corruption.
Shuttle’s new NS02A and NS02E vary by power supply options. The NS02A comes with a standard power adapter, while the NS02E can be powered by PoE (power over Ethernet). This feature allows users to easily do on-site installation without additional wires required with an AC adapter. Shuttle offers a three-year limited warranty on all its products. Available this month, the NS02A expected to sell for under $150 and the NS02E under $170. Here are all the specs. Leave a Comment
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