Volume 9, Issue 5 — May 15, 2018
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Aeiforia Technos
- The Risks of IoT
Raymond Kent : Director of the Innovative Technology Design Group, DLR Group/Westlake Reed Leskosky Editorial
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The Risks of IoT
By Raymond Kent Director of the Innovative Technology Design Group, DLR Group/Westlake Reed Leskosky
A quick survey: How many IoT devices do you currently think you own? Chances are you are way off on the actual number. A main reason is that no one actually knows how many devices are currently connected to the Internet of Things and that number is even harder to predict moving forward as more manufacturers put Internet-capable computer chips into more things for a variety of reasons. The current estimate is that more than 50 Billion IoT devices will be connected by 2020. Now you might personally think it is fantastic that your refrigerator uploads a shopping list to your smart phone based on it “knowing” what you have and what you are almost out of through a bevy of sensors and connectivity. But… guess who else thinks that is awesome? Cybercriminals. To them, it is akin to leaving the front door of your house open with signs saying the expensive stuff is in a shoe box under my bed.
IoT in theory makes life easier and more convenient, but in order to do that we willingly give up privacy. The recent Facebook debacle put this front and center as Cambridge Analytica showed how easy it is to get information on you and your personal habits through your devices when you eagerly set up to allow them to do so. Cybercriminals leaving ransomware on computers or spreading viruses through emails have made most people more security conscious — for good reason — and we have seen a dramatic rise in the use of VPNs, password managers and other encryption technology on both corporate and personal computers. But the gaping hole is still your IoT devices. They are not infallible and often are not capable of the types of protections afforded on your PC (or Mac). For example, that smart fridge of yours may be hacked and at best gets its internal temperature raised and your milk spoils and at worst becomes a back door into your network that allows the install a key logger or other maleficence without you even realizing it.
The march towards smart homes and businesses is on-going and and we pay for it with a loss of privacy. Additionally, this does not stop at the front door. IoT devices that are mobile such as fitness trackers, smart watches and even your vehicle all track data and can then sync to your network when within range bringing outside threats right into your environment. Some of these devices do have privacy settings but are not invincible to hacking. Recently a particular self-driving vehicle was hacked while in operation, though fortunately it only disabled the vehicle by stopping it at a relatively slow speed.
For some perspective, there are three main privacy concerns involving IoT:
- The amount of potential data points in staggering. The recent Federal Trade Commission report, Privacy & Security in a Connected World, outlined that fewer than 10,000 households can create 150 million data points in a single day and each of these data points is a potential entry for cybercriminals.
- Private (corporate or personal) information becoming your unwanted public profile. This information can be bought and sold (Cambridge Analytica) and used without your knowledge or apparent consent to sway your opinion, other’s opinions of you or your company, affect decisions by companies you do business with such as insurance brokers or suppliers or could even be used to affect stock value or credit ratings.
- Privacy is not what you think it means anymore. The devices can be always listening for human speech (Amazon Alexa) or even electronic information such as occupancy (security systems)
This can be especially true related to smart energy management devices such as water and gas meters, lighting controls, audiovisual system, HVAC controls that are always on the network ready to go. All is not hopeless though and there are strategies to combat unwanted intrusion but does require active participation. Many smart devices do have opt-out waivers when setting up the device that must actively be selected that can prevent unwanted advertising and marketing material either from being sent directly from the manufacturer or by them selling your information to third parties. And this can be useful for more benign things, but for the rest of it a stronger approach is required and needs to be followed through on. For example:
- Have separate networks that are dedicated for IoT devices from your core home or business network where personal or business related sensitive material is located. Make sure this is an encrypted network for both wired and wireless. Use hardware and software to do this.
- Use a secure password generator for each device so that no two devices have the same password. Use a combination of letters (upper and lower case), numbers and symbols if allowed. Make it the maximum length allowable.
- Change your network password every 30 days and leverage robust firewalls, virus detection and ad-blocking/tracking software.
- Use a dumber version of a device (non-IoT) if you are still concerned.
As I wrote about in my last article, Blockchain technology may be the saving grace and is showing quite a bit of promise here. And, since IoT is a $300 Billion a year business and growing, the government, manufacturers and consumers are immersed and involved. The Facebook/Cambridge Analytica incident just brought the security side of it front and center. Leave a Comment
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Amazon CEO Jeff Bezos’ Personal AV Tech Controls the Future of AV and Doesn’t Even Realize It
By Gary Kayye rAVe Founder
Maybe I’m a skeptic. I don’t think I am but, maybe. Having lived in technology for nearly 30 years, it’s not often a new tech product debuts that I get excited about. The iPhone was a giant WOW. Wireless networking was an “its about time” kind of moment as I was one of those power-travelers that used to use a phone “coupler” (if you don’t know what that is, you’re probably younger than a Millennial). And self-driving cars excite me like no other tech product since the first time I saw the so-called World Wide Web in 1994. I can’t wait.
I love new technology and I love all the cool things our industry is doing. HD was a huge, huge deal for us — like, even bigger than VGA on the original IBM PS/2 computer! But, 4K blows HD away. These days, I rarely go watch a movie in a theater that doesn’t have a 4K projector — I go out of my way to drive by two non-4K theaters to go to my local 4K-DCI one as often as possible. I have always thought it was cool that I get to see all the new tech before everyone else sees it — stuff my friends think is cool now (like digital signage and facial recognition), I saw at an InfoComm show or at a Digital Signage Expo a half-dozen years ago or more.
I find myself pondering the future of AV a lot. And, as you likely know, not only have I written about it many times in the past, but I’ve also been invited to speak at countless tech trade shows and special events about the Future of AV technology how how it may or may not affect us all. There seems to always be a technological evolution (e.g., HD to 4K) or sometimes a revolution (e.g., AV-over-IP) that makes for a perfect keynote subject for the attendees. In most cases, it’s easy to see how a new product or technological advancement will change things.
But it dawned on me today that the future of our very own AV market may not be in the hands of any new product, new technology or even an AV company at all. In fact, there’s likely one AV guy (or girl) out there, today, that controls the future of AV for all of us, but doesn’t even know it, yet.
I’m talking about Jeff Bezos’ personal AV technician. Yes, that Jeff Bezos — the one who started Amazon.
Follow my logic.
The Amazon Alexa is AMAZING. Probably the most amazing thing since Apple’s iPhone. And, maybe even more so. The iPhone was revolutionary as it was a handheld phone, an email client, notes taker, voice recorder, calendar, to-do list, wrist watch and flashlight — all in one. It replaced like 10 things I was using every single day. And I didn’t even mention the camera!
About a year ago, I reluctantly bought an Amazon Dot. I had been holding out for the Apple version as I was convinced it would be better. In hindsight, I’m glad I went ahead and purchased the Alexa-enabled Dot as, now that the Apple version, called HomePod, is out I can safely say that it sucks when compared to the Dot. Sure, it sounds better, but that’s not what I primarily use it for so I don’t care. Alexa’s voice-recognition software runs circles around the 2012-era Siri. Someone buying the HomePod for Alexa-like functionality must be experiencing what it was like to use the iPhone’s built-in Maps function instead of Google Maps back in 2010.
Anyway, stick with me here.
Alexa seamlessly and simply connects to nearly everything you want to connect it to. And, it’s updated weekly — yes, weekly — with behind-the-scenes Friday-afternoon firmware and software upgrades. So, just when you think Alexa doesn’t do something you want it to do, she can — you just have to wait until an upcoming Friday — as someone will add that functionality. And, at any time, you can add Alexa SKILLS to yours and have third-party control of your Lutron lighting system, your shades and blinds, your HVAC, your TV, your DVR, your CableTV box, your SONOS, your home security system, your cameras and even your washer and dryer (yes, I have that functionality — even though I can’t find a use for it yet). It can even call people, play any radio station in the world, play movie previews, play Jeopardy!, play Sirius/XM radio — I mean, it can do nearly anything. It’s squarely aimed at the average consumer or home application — all to simplify your life.
\But it could EASILY be upgraded to control everything. I mean everything. Projectors, digital signage networks, AV-over-IP systems, scalers, switchers, audio systems, commercial-grade lighting systems, rooms, buildings, etc. — you get the idea. In fact, a number of integrators, including AVI Systems and Whitlock, have custom Alexa Skills that add connectivity and voice-control of meeting rooms to Alexa. But, for now, that’s not Amazon’s target market — not by a long-shot. In fact, all these higher-end, commercial-like capabilities for Alexa have been, so far, developed by third-party companies like integrators or the manufacturers of the gear itself. None are core functionalities of Alexa. Yet.
But what if was? What if Amazon decided to add commercial lighting control, room control, AV control and remote control of everything-AV to the Alexa — as an out-of-the-box function? A scary thought, huh?
Well, that’s not likely to happen — except for one tiny possibility. What if Jeff Bezos experienced what we all experience in his daily professional life?
What if every time he wanted to make a video call, he had to get to the room 15 minutes before the meeting even started to make sure the system worked? What if he pressed START on his conference room touch panel and nothing happened? What if he switched inputs on his monitor and it skipped the input he wanted all the time? And, what if he tried to connect his laptop to the AV system and it sometimes it didn’t work?
As long as his personal AV tech keeps making his rooms work before Amazon founder, Jeff Bezos, gets there — so he never has to make anything AV work on his own, we are safe — our industry survives just as it always has. But, if he ever experiences what it’s like to really have an AV room that sometimes just doesn’t work right, he could very well yell down the hall, “Get the Alexa Team in here right now and let’s make all this shit work with a Dot!!”
At that moment, the future of AV may very well change forever. Leave a Comment
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WyreStorm Launches New AV-Over-IP SDVoE-Powered NetworkHD 600 Series WyreStorm just added a new AV-over-IP line aimed at the ProAV and residential markets called the NetworkHD 600 Series 4K – a 4K resolution and HD-capable over 10GbE using SDVoE technology.
Adding to its low bandwidth NetworkHD 100 Series HD over 1GbE using H.264 and video wall and multiview-supporting 200 Series and the 400 Series 4K HDR over 1GbE with JPEG2000, the 600 Series claims to offer a highly-scalable delivery of mathematically lossless, zero latency and seamless switching of 4K/60Hz and HDR using RGB or YUV, along with audio, control, scaling, processing, encoding and encryption over 10Gb IP network. 4K video is supported up to 4096×2160 60Hz at 4:4:4 8bit or 4:2:2 12bit HDR-10 over both HDMI and DisplayPort, with Dolby Vision to be supported by the end of the year.
Fully HDCP v2.2 compliant, 600 Series encoders and decoders feature auto-switch or software selectable input ports, with EDID capture and assign. HDMI audio is supported up to any known format (Genlock), as is multi-channel audio up to Dolby Atmos and DTS:X and Dolby/DTS High Definition codecs for breakaway/routing. The 600 also supports audio embedding and de-embedding on encoder and decoder with DAC/ADC functionality, 8ch PCM audio downmix, and the creation of independent audio distribution via analog ports.
Both 600 Series encoders and decoders feature integrated 1GbE pass-through linked to the main switch, with bidirectional, fully routable RS232 UART and bidirectional RS232 interface with API/driver. IR input on encoders and decoders are also fully routable, with IR output generation and IR input forwarding to the API set to be supported in a Q2/Q3 2018 firmware update.
And, the firmware update claims to have support for video walls up to 5×5, with bezel compensation and independent audio routing, and powerful multiview functionality, supporting up 32 input streams, available in arbitrary layouts and able to be rescaled, resized, offset and multiplied.
Almost any Layer 2+ or Layer 3 managed switch can be used with NetworkHD 600 Series for single-switch deployments. And for trickier multicast traffic, WyreStorm created specific guides for supported switch brands, listing specific ranges, models and firmware versions required for a successful installation. Netgear ProSAFE, M and XSM Series and Ruckus ICX 7700 Series switches are supported on release, with Cisco, Niveo and multiple switch configurations targeted for support shortly thereafter.
The NetworkHD 600 Series encoders and decoders are available now, with dedicated NHD-000-RACK 7U eight-slot rack mount available from May 2018.
All the specs are here. Leave a Comment
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Kaptivo Announces Kaptivo Enterprise for Secure Whiteboard Livestreaming
Kaptivo today announced the availability of Kaptivo Enterprise, a micro-optical camera and software system that digitizes dry-erase boards for instant, secure content sharing across teams. Designed to meet the needs of large organizations, Kaptivo Enterprise is the next generation of the Kaptivo whiteboard camera system that launched in 2016.
One in four people video conference every day, making it possible for global organizations to work together in real time. The rise of the remote team poses challenges for companies that rely on convenient whiteboards to enrich discussion and share information.
Employees can securely livestream crystal-clear whiteboard images through the web or video conferencing platforms, providing remote colleagues instant access to the latest content on any device, anywhere. Kaptivo Enterprise further addresses the challenge of information security in the enterprise. With superior quality whiteboard images, employees choose to use Kaptivo over alternative photo methods. SSL encryption and approval protocol for whiteboard sessions give teams granular control over content, and the option to connect via Ethernet provides added security.
The Kaptivo camera, which attaches to the top of any whiteboard, automatically saves images and shares content in real time via livestream or video conference integration. The images are instantly enhanced to remove any reflections, glare, and people blocking the board. Content changes are compiled into ready-to-go, multi-page timeline presentations of the meeting.
Here are all the details and how to get set up. Leave a Comment
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Nigel B Design Debuts Light Weight Projector Vaults Nigel B Design has a new line of secure, theft-resistant projector housings called Projector Vault. The aluminum housings are powder coated in white or black scratch-free enamel and all of them allows all power, signal and speaker cables to be routed inside the unit and hidden from view. Users will appreciate this feature together with the knowledge that the Projector Vault’s totally enclosed design provides security when locked on a campus.
When access to the interior is needed, you don’t have to unscrew “tamper-proof” screws, Projector Vault uses a hinged key locking top door designed that provides access to the interior when lamp changes or even if the entire projector needs to be changed out. In addition, a three-position lens panel allows left, right and center positions of the projector lens, without making any changes to the front Panel.
Nigel B says that Projector Vault eliminates the need for a projector mount as it’s two products in one — the projector is held in place using four self-adhesive pads that attach to the projector’s adjustable height feet and to the vault’s floor.
Here are more specs. Leave a Comment
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Barix Ships SIP-Enhanced SDK for Innovative IP Audio ModuleOffering OEM manufacturers and systems integrators a flexible platform for quickly implementing advanced audio and IP functionality, Barix today announced the immediate availability of the IPAM 400 IP Audio Module. Complementing the powerful features and performance of the new hardware, Barix has also released a comprehensive SDK that enables third-party developers to incorporate Session Initiation Protocol (SIP) functionality into their IPAM 400 based solutions.
The openly-programmable and cost-effective IPAM 400 OEM module streamlines product development, saves time and reduces risk for manufacturers creating advanced Audio over IP products. Barix’s highest-performance OEM audio platform to date, the IPAM 400 combines a 1.3GHz ARM Cortex-A7 MPCore processor with stereo audio, Ethernet, USB, GPIO and serial interfaces. The module’s open-source, Linux-based programming model and exceptional processing power enable developers to easily incorporate advanced audio processing, complex signal handling, IP-based streaming and control functionality into their solutions for almost any audio-oriented application they can imagine.
SIP support in Barix’s new SDK lets IPAM 400 developers integrate their audio solutions with SIP-based VoIP (Voice over IP) telephone systems, addressing the market trend towards combining intercom, paging, music-on-hold and other audio applications with SIP-enabled phone PBXs under unified control and management. Running on the Annuncicom60 board, the SDK includes all of the tools OEMs need to develop their own SIP-enabled Linux Yocto applications.
In addition to offering the IPAM 400 to OEM manufacturers, Barix is also using the new core technology platform in its own next-generation audio products. AudioPoint 3.0, Barix’s third-generation audio signage solution, and the Barix Retail Player multi-site background music streaming system both incorporate hardware built on the IPAM 400. AudioPoint 3.0 and Barix Retail Player will also be demonstrated at InfoComm 2018 alongside other Barix innovations.
Barix is here. Leave a Comment
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Black Box Introduces Emerald KVM Platform Black Box today introduced the Emerald Unified KVM Platform. Emerald is a converged KVM solution for distributing video, audio and peripheral signals throughout expanding hybrid environments that include both IP and proprietary direct-connect networks.
Emerald supports DisplayPort 1.2 4K video at 60 Hz and 10-bit color depth over standard IP network switches and connections and offers virtual machine support for VMware, Microsoft and Citrix using RDP, RemoteFX and PCoIP.
With the Emerald KVM platform, operations can scale across buildings, campuses and wide area networks, using the existing network infrastructure and switching between sources at speeds of less than a second (IP) and even faster in a direct connect matrix. The Emerald KVM platform’s USB emulation means that users can connect external hard drives, Wacom tablets and virtually any other high-speed USB 2.0 device to the KVM network.
Specs on Emerald are here. Leave a Comment
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Matrox and Lumens Announce SRT H.264 Streaming Compatibility from PTZ Camera to Display
Matrox Graphics and Lumens Digital Optics have announced the compatibility of their Secure Reliable Transport (SRT) ready products. Lumens VC-A50P series PTZ cameras support Full HD 1080p/60fps streaming, including H.264 on SRT for applications including lecture recording, videoconferencing and live broadcasting. Matrox Mura IPX quad-display multiviewer cards and Matrox Mura IPX series encoder/decoder boards for video walls, meanwhile, support the SRT protocol, the decoding of multiple H.264 streams and the output of multi-monitor configurations.
The new technology collaboration now allows customers to show up to four VC-A50P series PTZ camera streams across four displays per Mura IPX multiviewer, and up to eight cameras on up to nine monitors on video wall systems containing one Mura IPX capture & IP decode board combined with a Matrox or third-party graphics card. The end-to-end ecosystem facilitates seamless delivery, decode and display of high-quality, H.264 camera streams in SRT — at full resolution and frame rate.
Lumens Digital is here and Matrox Graphics is here. Leave a Comment
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ATEN Shows Ultra-Short Depth LCD Console ATEN Technology today announced the first in its new series of Ultra-Short Depth Dual Rail Widescreen LCD consoles. Supporting HDMI, DVI and VGA, the console features an 18.5″ LED-backlit LCD monitor with an integrated keyboard and touchpad. The short depth design fits 19″ equipment cabinets and is designed for shallow racks down to 45cm depth.
Designed with data center and server room customers in mind, the all-in-one LCD console allows for the customer to quickly switch between systems in the rack when used in conjunction with a KVM.
The CL3800 Ultra-Short Depth LCD Console Series is $1,900. You can see all the specs here. Leave a Comment
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Location-Based Virtual Reality Market to Reach $809 Million
News reports of experiential location-based virtual reality (LBVR) in shopping arcades, theme parks and movie theatres are taking the global press by storm. Companies including FoxNext, Zero Latency and Disney’s ILMxLab with Star Wars are demonstrating that LBVR is a viable business for investment, which is clearly enticing mainstream consumers to satisfy their VR curiosity. This is demonstrated by the high levels of growth, with consumer spend expected to reach $809 million by 2022, according to the latest VR Tracker Report from Futuresource Consulting.
“Q1 2018 saw significant growth and rising consumer spend, which is expected to lead to full year spend of $299 million in 2018 across the four types of LBVR categorised as arcades, multi-player experiences, VR cinemas and VR theme parks,” commented Carl Hibbert, associate director of consumer media & technology at Futuresource Consulting. “Of all four categories, ‘VRcades’ has seen the fastest take off. The category was estimated at $79 million consumer spend in 2017, accounting for 40 percent of all LBVR revenues.”
The VRcade category has the highest number of locations, with an estimated 4,000 worldwide, of which those in China account for 75-80 percent. However, the VRcades, particularly those in China, offer low-cost and consequently limited quality experiences, according to the Futuresource Consulting Global Virtual Reality Tracker Report.
However, at the other end of the spectrum are high-end, free-roam and interactive multi-player ‘location-based’ VR experiences. By 2022, multiplayer VR experiences will account for 41 percent of Global LBVR consumer spend.
“Multi-player LBVR allows players to roam free, untethered and with others in a VR environment. This category is expected to have the highest CAGR rate across the forecast period, despite a lower number of installations. This is due to consumer desire to pay for sociable experiences with friends, especially in more developed markets. Furthermore, the majority of multi-player installations offer original content restricted to franchise partners, thus remaining exclusive and adding to the attractiveness,” added Hibbert.
Notable players in the market such as The Void and IMAX are banking on using well-known franchises to support their roll-out of LBVR and support consumers’ appeal of this new tech medium. But with the cost of popular franchises restrictive for many, start-ups including Zero Latency are building their own content and experience portfolio.
Location-based VR is seeing popularity as the entry point for mass consumer adoption of VR, as it serves well to increase consumer awareness and engagement with the technology. The at-home market has seen slower than expected uptake, whereas LBVR allows consumers to experience VR without the large investment costs involved in purchasing hardware.
You can get the FutureSource report here. Leave a Comment
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NEC Display Announces New 4K Resolution 10,000-Lumen ProjectorNEC Display Solutions of America today announced the release of a new 4K installation projector, the PX1005QL. The PX1005QL projector uses a laser light engine keeping TCO to a minimum and is designed for auditoriums, museums, theaters, sanctuaries, network operation centers and similar venues. It’s particularly useful for artwork, photos and other color-critical applications, as well as for CAD and architectural drawings where the maximum amount of detail is required.
The projector features a 1-chip DLP that produces 10,000 lumens and a viewable resolution of 3840×2160 and claims 20,000 hours of near maintenance-free performance with a sealed optical engine for low maintenance and low TCO. Additional features:
- Interchangeable lenses provides installation flexibility and ease of replacement
- Dual HDMI (HDCP v2.2), Dual DisplayPort, HDBaseT, Quad 3G SDI for support of native 4K sources
- Powered focus, zoom and lens shift allows for installation flexibility
- Edge blending, stacking, geometric correction and mapping capabilities to create images on alternative surfaces
- Cornerstone and geometric correction, which ensures an accurately portrayed image no matter where the projector is placed or what shape it’s projecting onto
- Roll free for dynamic installations and presentations
- 4K 60Hz support on HDMI, DP and HDBaseT inputs for connection to multiple 4K sources
The PX1005QL will be available for $24,000. Here are all the specs. Leave a Comment
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Extron Intros HD CTL 100 for Huddle SpacesExtron’s new HD CTL 100 is designed for automatic display control in small meeting rooms and huddle spaces. It offers effortless Plug and Play automation, with no remotes to lose and no buttons to press. When an active signal is connected to the HDMI input, the HD CTL 100 automatically turns on the display and selects the correct input via CEC control. For further flexibility, the unit easily integrates with the Extron OCS 100 occupancy sensor to automatically power the system on when users enter the room. Connecting a ShareLink wireless collaboration gateway adds support for wireless BYOD convenience, providing effective collaboration and content sharing from a wide variety of mobile devices.
The HD CTL 100 is easy-to-use and fully operational out of the box when using CEC. Automatic power control allows users to collaborate with minimal interaction with the AV hardware. No buttons or remotes are needed. When no signal is detected, the system will power down after a predetermined time period. The HD CTL 100 supports HDMI data rates up to 18Gbps and video resolutions up to 4K/60 with 4:4:4 chroma sampling.
Here are the details. Leave a Comment
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Barco XDL Laser Projector Now Carries a 75K-Lumen Spec Barco is launching a new range of laser projectors dubbed the XDL. Designed specifically for very large venues and events, the XDL is spec’d to be Rec. 2020 color, uses a native (4096×2160) 4K resolution 3-chip DLP system and can handle content up to 120Hz. The XDL will be launched to coincide with InfoComm 2018.
The XDL series also carries the brightest lumen spec ever, up to 75,000 lumens. Barco also says the XDL speeds up the installation process by reducing cable hassle and alignment time because the projectors provide a lens shift of up to 100 percent. And, images can be matched to the projection surface with the on-board real-time warping and blending feature.
Companies that already own Barco XLD+ lenses will be able to reuse them on the XDL projectors. Because they are all using a laser light source, image flicker and lamp-related costs and maintenance (such as lamp replacements) are eliminated. Compared to xenon projectors, the XDLs also consume 40% less power and ensure minimum downtime.
Here are all the specs and options. Leave a Comment
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DisplayNote Montage Adds New Features DisplayNote has added new features to their wireless presentation system, Montage aimed at IT managers who would be deploying the system. The first is an IT admin feature that allows IT departments to, facility-wide, deploy, update settings, turn on and off the system, view usage stats, add or remove rooms and perform firmware updates — all via the network.
The second new feature allows users, during a use session, to download any software applications they want on to their Windows-based Montage system and then the system resets after each usage — even removing the application just added. That way, every user starts with eh same session loaded. So, once the session is over, the app is gone.
The DisplayNote Montage is a wireless presentation system for room or faculty wide installs. Here are all the details. Leave a Comment
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Bogen Announces C4000 IP-Based Commercial Paging and Audio Distribution System Bogen Communications announced the introduction of its first IP-based, software-centric communications system optimized for commercial paging and audio distribution applications. The C4000 solution follows on the heels of Bogen’s award-winning education-focused E7000 system that debuted at InfoComm 2017. Both products leverage Bogen’s Nyquist software platform that provides users with unparalleled flexibility and scalability in whatever their application. The C4000 system addresses the unique communication needs of a variety of users: industrial facilities, transportation hubs, retailers, offices, restaurants and bars — anywhere easy and effective communication and audio distribution are required.
The heart of the C4000 solution is a robust, state-of-the-art system controller with an easy to use web-based graphical user interface (GUI) that is accessible through any PC, tablet or mobile device from any location in the connected world. The solution features a built-in, streaming Internet radio service, airable by Tune In. Business users can also access commercially licensed, customizable music stations from SoundMachine, the premier music subscription service for business. Both services are perfect for a wide variety of background music applications. SoundMachine gives large and small retailers, restaurants, bars or any other company looking to enhance their customer experience the ability to craft a seamless, engaging and on-brand music experience.
Available feature-rich IP phones and purpose-built networked appliances provide convenient communication, control, and interoperability with third-party devices and systems such as access control, fire alarm, clock and PBX systems. Available networked appliances include seven new audio power amplifiers, ranging from one-channel x 20 watts to four-channel x 300 watts, as well as a four-channel matrix mixer/pre-amp. A versatile new 10 watt plenum-rated intercom module with optional HDMI video output allows users to turn any speaker into an IP speaker for even greater site design flexibility.
The C4000 solution is extremely easy to install and use. Its web-based GUI allows people with a broad spectrum of technical proficiency to use the system. The C4000 solution can be scaled to support multiple, geographically dispersed facilities, encompassing a virtually unlimited number of paging and audio zones. Talkback capability is available for any areas requiring two-way communications. The solution can be easily upgraded with new features over time to address ever-changing customer environments and technology.
Bogen expects the C4000 system will start shipping to commercial contractors and distributors in the third quarter of 2018 and here are the details. Leave a Comment
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Vivitek’s Large Venue Projector Family Grows With New DU6693Z Laser Projector Vivitek just introduced the DLP-based DU6693Z laser projector — a 7000-lumen, WUXGA (1920×1200) resolution single-chip DLP projectors that is spec’d to have a 10,000:1 contrast ratio. The DU6693Z includes a motorized lens with both horizontal and vertical shift (with 10 memory positions and four corner correction and keystone correction), eight optional lenses that range from a 0.38:1 to 8.26:1 throw ratio and it was designed to support 360 degree/portrait projection mode. Designed for both rental and staging as well as permanent install, inputs include HDBaseT as well as VGA, DVI and HDMI.
At only 32dB at normal mode, its low fan noise makes DU6693Z one of the quietest 7,000 ANSI lumen projectors. Vivitek says it’s using a new advanced thermal management technology to improve the projector’s cooling efficiency. Like most Vivitek projectors, the DU6693Z has a sealed optical engine that is air-tight, so no tiny dust particles cannot get into the optical engine part, and thus not able to interfere with the DMD chip.
All the detailed specs are here. Leave a Comment
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Christie Expands Laser Phosphor Line with GS Series Christie continues to expand its comprehensive mainstream projector lineup with the new 1DLP Christie DHD635-GS and Christie DWU635-GS laser phosphor models featuring embedded warping and blending technology, dynamic contrast, 360-degree orientation, and both portrait and landscape mode. Both models are aimed at a wide range of applications including corporate boardrooms and meeting rooms, classrooms, lecture halls, houses of worship, hotel conference rooms, museums, libraries and other fixed or rental staging applications. The Christie DHD635-GS is HD at 1920×1080 and Christie the DWU635-GS is WUXGA (1920×1200).
Delivering laser diodes for up to 6750 ISO lumens of light output with 20,000 hours of operation, both projectors are equipped with Christie RealBlack technology to produce 4,000,000:1 full on/off contrast ratio in a whisper-quiet (36dBA) solution.
Compatible with all GS Series lenses – including a new Ultra Short Throw – both 1DLP projectors are capable of 24/7 operation and ship in April 2018 with a three-year parts and labor warranty. Here are more detailed specs. Leave a Comment
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Optoma Launches ZU660 WUXGA Laser ProScene Projector Aimed at ProAV Market Optoma today launched a followup model to its ZU650 and ZU650+ projectors with the Optoma ProScene ZU660. The Optoma ZU660 features four corner adjustments, better color matching integration and compatibility with Optoma’s BX-CTA16 and BX-CTADOME lenses.
The Optoma ProScene ZU660 is WUXGA laser phosphor projector (1920×1200) designed for museums, boardrooms, houses of worship and smaller entertainment venues. With 6,000 ANSI lumens and a claim of 2,000,000:1 contrast ratio with Extreme Black enabled, the ZU660 includes built-in color matching with an HSG adjustment. The Optoma ZU660 also claims a laser phosphor light source with up to 20,000 hours of maintenance free operation.
Features of the Optoma ZU660 include:
- Resolution: 1920×1200 WUXGA
- Brightness: 6,000 ANSI lumens
- Contrast Ratio: 2,000,000:1
- Light Source: Laser phosphor
- Motorized lens shift, zoom and focus
- Built-in color matching with HSG adjustment
- Four-corner adjustments
- Vertical and Horizontal lens shift: 50 percent vertical, 15 percent horizontal
- Connectivity: HDBaseT, two HDMI, DVI-D, VGA and 3D SYNC In and Out
- Pricing: $5,999
The Optoma ZU660 is detailed here. Leave a Comment
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Xantech Introduces New HDMI Distribution Line Nortek Security & Control (NSC) today introduced its all-new line of Xantech HDMI distribution solutions — including extenders, switchers and distributions amps. Xantech, traditionally known as a control accessory company, is expending its video product line considerably with these new products — all centered around sending HDMI signals longer distances as well as solving quirky HDMI routing issues.
The three new Xantech extenders include:
- The XT-HDBT-EX100-4K18G-KIT: 4K HDBaseT extender delivers HDMI 2.0 with HDCP 2.2 support, Bi-directional IR, RS-232 and PoH (PoE) up to lengths of 70m at 4K (100m at 1080p) over a single CAT cable.
- The XT-HDBT-EX70-4K-KIT: 4K HDBaseT solution delivers HDMI with HDCP 2.2 support, Bi-directional IR and PoH (PoE) up to lengths of 40m at 4K (70m at 1080p) over a single CAT cable.
- The XT-CAT-EX40-KIT: Slim-line extender provides HDMI distribution over a single CAT cable at outstanding value and delivers HDMI & Bi-directional IR up to lengths of 40m @ 1080p and 50m @ 1080i.
Five new Xantech splitters include:
- The XT-HDBT-SP14-KIT: 4K UHD HDBaseT splitter distributes a single HDMI source to four simultaneous HDBaseT outputs with HDCP 2.2 support.
- The XT-SP12-4K18G: 4K HDMI 2.0 splitter distributes a single HDMI source to two simultaneous outputs, and supports full HDMI 2.0 and HDCP 2.2 with video resolutions up to and including 4K @ 60Hz 4:4:4.
- The XT-SP14-4K18G: 4K HDMI 2.0 splitter distributes a single HDMI source to four simultaneous outputs and supports full HDMI 2.0 and HDCP 2.2 with video resolutions up to and including 4K @ 60Hz 4:4:4.
- The XT-SW21-4K18G: 4K HDMI 2.0 switcher distributes 2x HDMI sources to a single output and supports full HDMI 2.0 and HDCP 2.2 with video resolutions up to and including 4K @ 60Hz 4:4:4.
- The XT-SW41-4K18G: 4K HDMI 2.0 switcher distributes 4x HDMI sources to a single output and supports full HDMI 2.0 and HDCP 2.2 with video resolutions up to and including 4K @ 60Hz 4:4:4.
Providing exceptional performance and value, the three new Xantech matrix switchers include:
- The XT-HDBT-MX44-4K-KIT: The 4×4 HDBaseT Matrix, a 4K HDCP 2.2 Matrix package, delivers HDMI, Bi-directional IR and PoH (PoE) up to lengths of 70m over a single CAT cable and includes simultaneous HDBaseT/HDMI on output 1 and a web browser interface module for control and configuration of the matrix.
- The XT-HDMI-MX44-4K18G: 4K HDMI matrix features HDMI 2.0 chipsets with HDCP 2.2 support, allowing for the distribution of four HDMI sources to four displays. The unit transmits all HDMI resolutions up to and including 4K 60Hz 4:4:4.
- The XT-HDMI-MX42-4K18G: 4K HDMI matrix features HDMI 2.0 chipsets with HDCP 2.2 support, allowing distribution of four HDMI sources to two displays. The unit transmits all HDMI resolutions up to and including 4K 60Hz 4:4:4.
Designed to seamlessly convert and distribute audio signals in any installation, the new Xantech audio accessory offerings include:
- The XT-CAT-ARC-KIT: Audio over CAT cable solution transmits digital audio signals up to distance of 300m (192kHz signals up to 100m). This plug-and-play device will extend both optical and coaxial digital inputs concurrently.
- The XT-DAC-12: Designed to convert either coaxial or optical signals from a digital signal to analog stereo audio. This unit includes a digital converter for converting an optical signal to a coaxial signal.
- The XT-DIG-11: Designed to convert coaxial or optical digital audio signals from one signal type to another, this unit supports 192kHz sample rates for enhanced sound reproduction. Outputs are simultaneous so that audio can be distributed to multiple locations.
And the new Xantech HDMI-SM-4K18G HDMI Signal Manager is designed to help solve issues with HDMI compatibility, HDCP 2.2, clock stretching, EDID and handshaking that are common when distributing higher bandwidth HDMI signals over longer distances.
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Extron Ships 18 Gbps HDMI Matrix Switchers for 4K/60 Signals
Extron is shipping the new DXP HD 4K PLUS Series of HDMI matrix switchers that support signals up to 4K/60 with 4:4:4 chroma sampling.They support HDMI 2.0b specifications, including data rates up to 18 Gbps, HDR, Deep Color up to 12-bit, 3D, and HD lossless audio formats. These HDCP 2.2 compliant matrix switchers incorporate Extron technologies such as SpeedSwitch, EDID Minder, and Key Minder as well as HDMI input equalization and output regeneration to ensure reliable system operation. Digital audio can be de-embedded from any input and assigned to digital or analog stereo outputs for ease of integration. Available in 4×4, 8×4, and 8×8 sizes, the DXP HD 4K PLUS Series is designed specifically for matrix switching of 4K/60 HDMI signals.
The DXP HD 4K PLUS Series matrix switchers are designed for use with computers equipped with 4K graphics cards, 4K media players, 4K Blu-ray players and other similar signal sources, as well as 4K native resolution displays. With a maximum data rate of 18 Gbps, they support computer and video resolutions up to 4096×2160 at 60 Hz with 8-bit color in 4:4:4 color space. In addition, these matrix switchers fully support 1080p/60 with 12-bit Deep Color. To maintain signal integrity, they feature automatic cable equalization on inputs and output reclocking to reshape and restore timing of the video signal at each HDMI output. These features combined with Extron Pro Series High Speed HDMI Cables allow longer 4K signal runs, reducing the need for additional signal conditioning equipment by compensating for weak source signals or signal loss on long cable runs. Additionally, +5 VDC, 200 mA is available on each output for powering peripheral devices.
Complete specs of the DXP HD 4K PLUS Series are here. Leave a Comment
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Screen Innovations Adds New Zero Edge Pro Screen
Screen Innovations (SI) has announced an update to its Zero Edge screen with the new Zero Edge Pro. Thirty-six screens in one and three bezel options: Small (1/2-inch), Medium (1-1/2-inches), or Large (2-inches). The Medium and Large options are available in twelve colors with an in-lay of hand-wrapped velvet or completely wrapped in velvet. Available colors are the same that were recently introduced on SI’s Solo Pro lithium-powered motorized screen.
Zero Edge Pro is also available with SI’s LED backlighting options, another original feature on Zero Edge screens. SI has added a new option for backlighting as well, including a new IP controlled solution that can be integrated and controlled seamlessly with Philips Hue Smart Lighting ecosystems.
Simultaneously, SI has also announced a new rendition of its Black Diamond material available exclusively on Zero Edge Pro. Black Diamond XL, which has exceeded the optical height barrier of 60-inches, is available up to 76-inches high and carrying a claim to be the largest optical-layer based Ambient Light Rejecting (ALR) screen in the world. Zero Edge Pro is also available in a variety of SI’s materials, including a new 1.0 gain material, aptly-named Unity, as well as their advanced line of acoustically transparent materials, such as Pure and Slate AT.
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Just Add Power Pushes 4K Latency Spec to 16ms from Source to ScreenJust Add Power (J+P) announced that its 3G Ultra HD Over IP series of solutions has been updated to send 4K video-over-IP with a 16 ms latency spec from source to screen. This is important because many AV-over-IP vendors lie and say “zero latency.” Using JPEG 2000 compression and aimed at ballparks, arenas, command centers and corporate AV 4K installations, J+P’s 3G Ultra HD over IP solutions are designed for virtual UHD distribution and matrixing applications across an AV network with at least 1G of bandwidth.
Using standard PoE, J+P solutions consume a maximum of 10 watts per device, decreasing power consumption by 30 percent and eliminating the cost of proprietary PoE injectors. They use standard network protocols (telnet, TCP/IP, UDP and multicast) and are built to work with off-the-shelf gigabit switches. Operating from an isolated, firewall-protected VLAN that has no access to other corporate databases, information, and servers, the device don’t require additional security measures.
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Covid Launches Simple Fiber OpticsCovid has launched a new fiber optic termination system. The main drawback is the difficulty and time consuming factors in terminating most fiber optic products. Traditional fiber cables require polishing and splicing which may not be an easy task without extensive training. Covid’s new line of Simple Fiber Optics, are designed to help eliminate these complications and make terminating fiber optic cables quick and easy.
These fiber cables offer 10,000 times the bend longevity and up to 200 times the durability allowing installers to treat the product like standard category cabling instead of fragile fiber. SC and LC Fiber connectors are available in packs of ten. The basic termination kit comes with the precision wheel fiber cleaver, visual fault locator, strippers and many other accessories.
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Christie Extreme Series Adds 49-inch LCD with 1.8mm Bezel
Christie is expanding its Extreme Series lineup of high-performance LCD displays with the introduction of the FHD493-XE 49-inch extremely narrow bezel display. Featuring a 1.8mm combined bezel width, panel matching and Christie Phoenix EP compatibility, the FHD493-XE is designed for 24/7 applications.
Panel matching for color and brightness means that each panel comes pre-calibrated so that when used in video wall applications they stay on the same color-scale. Integrated electronics support video wall scaling up to a 10×10 configuration and 4K multi-stream transport across up to four panels is also built-in. Additionally, Smart Light Control automatically adjusts the brightness of each panel across the video wall for uniformity and consistent performance for the life of the video wall.
The Christie FHD493-XE is compatible with the Christie Phoenix EP, an embedded processing solution, via an OPS slot. The Christie Phoenix EP installs directly into the FHD493-XE to process network sources, decode and manage video and data sources on multiple Christie panels.
The FDH493-XE meets ADA depth requirements with a Christie ML20 mount making it ideal for video walls in public spaces or where space is limited.
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For all you REGULAR readers of rAVe ProAV Edition out there, hopefully you enjoyed another opinion-packed issue!
For those of you NEW to rAVe, you just read how we are — we are 100 percent opinionated. We not only report the news and new product stories of the ProAV industry, but we stuff the articles full of our opinions. That may include (but is not limited to) whether or not the product is even worth looking at, challenging the manufacturers on their specifications, calling a marketing-spec bluff and suggesting ways integrators market their products better. But, one thing is for sure, we are NOT a trade publication that gets paid for running editorial or product stories. Traditional trade publications get paid to run product stories — that’s why you see what you see in most of the pubs out there. We are different: we run what we want to run and NO ONE is going to pay us to write anything good (or bad).
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A little about me: I graduated from Journalism School at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill (where I am adjunct faculty). I’ve been in the AV-industry since 1987 where I started with Extron and eventually moved to AMX. So, I guess I am an industry veteran (although I don’t think I am that old). I have been an opinionated columnist for a number of industry publications and in the late 1990s I started the widely read KNews eNewsletter (the first in the AV market) and also created the model for and was co-founder of AV Avenue, which is now known as InfoComm IQ. rAVe [Publications] has been around since 2003, when we launched our original newsletter, rAVe ProAV Edition.
Everything we publish is Opt-in — we spam NO ONE! rAVe ProAV Edition is our flagship ePublication with what we believe is a reach of virtually everyone in the ProAV market. rAVe HomeAV Edition, co-published with CEDIA and launched in February 2004, is, by far, the largest ePub in the HomeAV market. We added rAVe Rental [and Staging] in November 2007, rAVe ED [Education] in May 2008 and then rAVe DS [Digital Signage] in January 2009. We added rAVe GHGav [Green, Healthcare & Government AV] in August 2010 and rAVe HOW [House of Worship] in July 2012. You can subscribe to any of those publication or see ALL our archives by going to: https://www.ravepubs.com
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