Volume 9, Issue 6 — June 16, 2016
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Getting Close
By Scott Tiner rAVe Columnist
This month, I take a quick break from writing about ITIL. Why? Well, it is June and in the AV world that means InfoComm. We all know that InfoComm is the closest that all of us AV people get to a national holiday. I won’t be in Vegas this year but will be watching intently from afar. One thing I am watching of course, is the weather. Yikes, over 100 degrees, a relaxing week in Maine may be better. Instead, I will watch rAVe coverage and learn more than if I attended in person.
One thing I am watching very carefully for during this InfoComm is proximity detection and how it is beginning to affect AV. First, take a look at the PP-100, the PinPoint Proximity Detection unit from Crestron. This is a small Bluetooth unit that plugs into any outlet in the rooms in your house. As you move through the house, the controls on your iPhone or iPad automatically change to fit that particular space. Even better than that, you can program controls to automatically trigger as you walk through spaces. If you are in the kitchen and listening to music, that music can follow you in the living room as you enter that space. Not only is this cool, it is also green. I can not tell you how many times I need to go through my house and turn off televisions, lights and fans. If the house was programmed to be controlled by the iPhones in the house we could save energy. Everyone in the family has an iPhone and those phones never leave the sides of people in my family. I remember years ago Bill Gates talking about a house that responds to you as you walk through it. This was prior to smartphones, and it was recommended that we would all wear pins that would recognize us. Today, we realize that we already have a device with us at all times that can identify us and allow our environment to adapt to our presence.
How does this apply to education? Faculty, staff and students all have devices with them as well. At our school the large majority of these devices are iOS devices. Have you ever thought about programming a room for a certain individual? Having a unique touchpanel layout for each faculty member so they only had exactly what they wanted? Logically, that is very difficult to do on a touchpanel, because first the faculty will need to navigate to “their” page. However, putting the proximity detection to use and suddenly they may not even need the touchpanel. The class capture can start recording automatically when the faculty member enters the room. The lights can go to their favorite settings and the projector can turn on and choose their favorite source. Some of this may seem a little far fetched and future based. However, I predict that within five years many of us will be nostalgic about the times that we used to have to turn on lights and equipment with a touchpanel when we entered a room.
Proximity detection has also become a part of the IT world. The wireless system we use at Bates detects which AP you are closest to and allows you to see devices based on that. This will become most applicable with devices like the Kramer VIA and Apple TVs. One large problem with these devices has been the list of open devices on a network and knowing which one to choose. Likely, if you have many on your campus you need to decode the algorithm used to name the devices. However, with proximity detection you only see the ones that are directly around you.
As you walk around the show floor, think about proximity detection. How much information is that device in your pocket able to share about your preferences? What other technologies may benefit from knowing your location and customizing the environment to you? Oh, and of course, get out, network and and enjoy the national holiday! Leave a Comment
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Nureva Announces a Mobile Option for the Span SystemNureva Inc. announces a mobile option for the Span system, providing the ultimate in flexibility for break-out groups or huddle room usage. The Span cart integrates a full HD 1080p projector and customer-supplied PC within a sleek, mobile unit to provide a 6′ 2″ (1.88 m) wide image. Two infrared pens provide touch interactivity at the wall. Two or three carts can be linked seamlessly together to produce 12′ 4″ and 18′ 6″ (3.76 m and 5.64 m, respectively) digital workspaces. The Span cart complements the projected images of the wall-mounted Span systems in 10′ 2″, 20′ 2″ and 30′ 2″ (3.10, 6.15 and 9.19m, respectively) configurations that have been announced and released over the past year. This is very cool.
The integrated projector features solid-state illumination (SSI) and 25,000 hours of useful life (similar to that of flat-panel displays) for long-term, carefree operation. The projector’s optics are optimized for the cart to be pushed up squarely to a wall (the projection surface) with no adjustments ever required. A VESA mount on the shelf within the open cabinet provides the option for top or bottom installation of the PC. All cables are neatly integrated within the cart with a single power cable out. HDMI and USB ports on the side of the unit are easily accessible.The swing-up handle can be used to push or pull the cart and then dropped down and fixed in place while the cart is in use. Durable swivel casters allow for simple movement in an office environment, and soft rubber bumpers provide protection when positioning the cart flush against the wall.
Here are all the tech details.
And, they’ve made a video to explain it.
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BenQ Launches More Large Flat Panel Displays BenQ America today announced additions to its RP Series of Interactive Flat Panels (IFPs). The latest RP Series IFP models are aimed at classrooms. The new RP750 75-inch, RP703 70-inch and RP653 65-inch displays join the 4K RP790 79-inch display to round out the lineup. Along with 20-point multi-touch capabilities, these screens have tempered glass with a bacteria-resistant coating to help reduce the spread of germs. These touch screens are also integrated with BenQ’s Eye-Care features, including anti-glare glass to minimize light reflections and improve readability, as well as Low Blue Light and ZeroFlicker backlight technologies to help reduce eye fatigue during long hours of content viewing and instruction. They also come equipped with a built-in Android operating system that’s packed with a suite of apps and educational games for classroom instruction, such as a WPS Office document reader, built-in Web browser and an EZWrite instant digital blackboard annotation tool and media player app.
Available with DisplayNote, a free bundled desktop and mobile application, the BenQ RP Series IFPs allow educators to create more collaborative lessons by streaming any content directly from their computers or via the cloud to multiple participants across various devices. Aimed at classroom, BenQ’s QTouch software enables onscreen interaction and annotation. For administrators, the BenQ Multiple Display Administrator software adds remote monitoring and control of all projectors and IFPs in addition to administering instant equipment performance and providing status alerts for IT staff.
They will be at InfoComm and they are here. Leave a Comment
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Extron Ships SW HD 4K SwitchersThe Extron SW HD 4K are two and four input switchers for HDMI signals. They are designed for video signal switching between multiple HDMI source devices to a single display. The switchers support video signals at resolutions up to 4K, as well as data rates up to 10.2 Gbps, 3D, Lip Sync and HD lossless audio formats. Both models feature EDID Minder, which maintains continuous EDID communication with connected devices and ensures that the HDMI sources power up properly and maintain correct video output. The switchers provide automatic input cable equalization up to 50 feet on Extron HDMI Pro Series cable. The SW HD 4K switchers offer front panel, RS232, IR, contact closure and auto-input switching control options for integration into a wide variety of environments.
The SW HD 4K switchers provide integrator-friendly features, including automatic input cable equalization, automatic color bit depth management, indicators for monitoring and troubleshooting, as well as peripheral device power on each output. Automatic input cable equalization corrects for signal loss due to lengthy input cables, ensuring signal integrity up to 50 feet,when used with Extron HDMI Pro Series cable. The switchers automatically adjust color bit depth based on the display EDID to prevent color compatibility conflicts between source and display. Front panel LED indicators provide immediate visual confirmation of HDCP authentication and signal presence for each input and the output. If HDCP‑encrypted content is transmitted to a non‑compliant display, a full‑screen green signal provides immediate visual confirmation that protected content cannot be viewed on that display.
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Gefen Ultra HD HDBaseT 2.0 Extender for HDMI Debuts at InfoComm Gefen today introduced the EXT-UHDA-HBT2, a new HDMI extender that uses HDBaseT 2.0 technology to extend 4K digital AV, Ethernet, RS232, two-way IR, two-way audio and two-way POH compliant power up to 330 feet over one Cat5e cable.
The EXT-UHDA-HBT2’s Sender and Receiver are compatible with all compliant HDBaseT systems and will easily interface with sources and displays equipped with HDBaseT. Video resolutions of 1080p and 1920×1200 8-bitcolor up to 495 feet. 4K Ultra HD and DCI-Cinema (up to 4096×2160) at 60 Hz 4:2:0 or 30 Hz 4:4:4, LPCM7.1 and HBR digital audio are also supported.
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Clockaudio to Demo Retractable, Motorized Ceiling Tri Element Hanging Microphone ArrayDesigned for audio or video conferencing, the new Clockaudio CCRM4000-C303 offers a new option when specifying hanging microphones that need to be completely retracted when not in use. The CCRM4000-C303 is optimized for speech intelligibility and features three high quality Cardioid capsules that cover a 360 degree pick up pattern, with each independent capsule being RF immune and capturing approximately 120 degrees.
The CCRM4000-C303W-RF is optimized for speech intelligibility and features the same three high quality Cardioid capsules that cover a 360 degree pick up pattern, with each independent capsule being RF immune and capturing approximately 120 degrees. It is easy to install, and also compatible with all popular DSP units. For applications where table microphones are not an option, the C303W-RF offers a great alternative to bring the microphone capsules closer to the participant, with a minimal foot print in the conference room.
Designed for use in boardrooms, conferencing and a wide variety of applications, the CCRM4000-C303W-RF offers a great alternative to installations where the microphone equipment needs to be able to “disappear” from sight. The retractable unit enables the microphone to completely withdraw back into the ceiling when not in use, leaving the room aesthetically pleasing and ready for other functions.
This product helps clients to keep surfaces free from obstruction, leaves a smaller footprint on the overall design, enables additional flexibility for reconfiguration within the room without sacrificing sound quality and provides an even more streamlined approach to the any room’s audio technology. The unit comes virtually pre-assembled and allows you to bring the microphone closer to the participant, which contributes in getting more direct sound and less of the room.
The CCRM-4000-C303W-RF master units ship complete with a ceiling mounted IR sensor, remote control, C303W-RF Tri-Element Microphone, ceiling bezel with locking ring, 18VDC power supply unit, ceiling tile mounting bracket and safety cable. Slave units are also available.
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Kramer Introduces New Control Platform at InfoComm 2016 Kramer has released Kramer Control, the company’s new cloud-based solution for control and analytics. Kramer Control lets users navigate to any room in an organization and easily control AV systems, infrastructures and devices, including Kramer wireless collaboration products, audio products and systems, thermostats, HVAC, lights, shades, alarms, security, video conferencing and more at a fraction of the time and cost.
The Kramer Control Platform is made up of three modules: Manager, Builder and Analytics Dashboard, with options for public, private or hybrid cloud implementation.
The Manager is used for defining project content and scope, e.g., building layout, floors, rooms, etc. The cloud-based Builder lets users create, edit and configure room control systems from anywhere in the world. With access to a library of pre-installed smart device drivers, users can drag-and-drop any device without any prior programing knowledge.
Kramer says the Analytics Dashboard (powered by Kramer Network) is another industry-first, automatically gathering all control data and generating actionable business analytics such as device health and performance, room usage, operational efficiency, energy usage, and more. Data gathering is optional and can be disabled or enabled based on user preference.
On site, Smart Units are the heart of the solution. Powered by innovative software technology called a “Brain,” Smart Units provide bi-directional control of any device, the Manager, Builder, and Dashboard with universal I/O ports. The solution supports industry standards such as IR, serial RS-232, relays, and GPIO. Upon installation, Smart Units can automatically connect to the Cloud and seamlessly sync for updates in real time. They also update themselves whenever new updates become available.
Users can control Smart Units via a user-friendly, customizable interface on a dedicated Kramer Control touch panel, any 3rd-party tablet, or over the Web with BYOD. The solution’s non-hierarchical distributed architecture of standalone Smart Units ensures the system will remain up and running in the case of any single point of failure.
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Nureva Announces the HDL300 Audio Conferencing System Nureva announced the Nureva HDL300 audio conferencing system for small to mid-sized rooms. This integrated wall-mounted microphone and speaker system uses Nureva’s patent-pending audio processing technology to provide remote participants with a natural, near-in-room experience. Nureva’s unique processor is 15 times more powerful than conventional systems, which enables the HDL300 system to simultaneously create and process sound from more than 8,000 virtual microphones. Each virtual microphone picks up sound from a precise location in the room, focusing on the intended voices while retaining the natural ambient sounds. The result is that remote participants feel like they’re in the same location, so they’re more engaged and the overall meeting is more productive.
As you know, conventional audio conferencing systems rely on processing techniques to correct for signal loss due to location of physical microphones, unwanted noises and microphone or beam switching, which can introduce distortions and sound artifacts. The premise of the HDL300 system is to put a virtual microphone as close to the sound source as possible, what we call Microphone Mist technology, so that sound is acquired from the best possible location and does not need conventional clean-up processes. The resulting audio experience comes closer than ever to matching how the brain naturally hears and processes sound when teams are face to face.
The system requires a computer enabled with UC&C, web conferencing or video conferencing software, such as Skype for business, Skype, Cisco WebEx, GoToMeeting or Google Hangouts. When the USB cable is plugged into a computer, the HDL300 system is recognized as a standard USB audio device. No additional drivers need to be installed. The integrated microphone and speaker bar is easily installed on any wall and connected by a single Ethernet cable (for power and communication) to the breakout box. The wall-mounted location minimizes the distractions of table noise and keeps the table clear.
Advanced DSP algorithms place 8,192 virtual microphones in the room to pick up and process audio, creating an immersive, natural audio conferencing experience for participants at remote locations. All of this is enabled by a powerful processor, with 15,000 MIPS compared to 400 to 1,000 MIPS for conventional systems. The technology creates a platform for Nureva, offering a range of future extensions that could include support for larger rooms, audio input and control and integration with the Span system.
The Nureva HDL300 is featured on our InfoComm Top-10 tour and you can get more information on the product here or by watching our rAVe RADIO Videocast of it here. Leave a Comment
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Extron Ships XTP II HDMI 2.0/HDCP 2.2 Boards with 18 Gbps Throughput for 4K/60 Video Extron just announced they are shopping their XTP II CP HD 4K PLUS input and output boards that provide local connectivity for HDMI and support for separate analog stereo audio. These boards are HDCP 2.2 compliant and provide the highest level of HDMI 2.0 switching performance in the Pro AV industry. They are fully compatible with all XTP II CrossPoint matrix switchers and can also be used with original XTP CrossPoint models. The 18 Gbps data rate throughput at each port easily accommodates requirements for support of resolutions up to 4K/60 with 4:4:4 chroma sampling. That means they are future-ready whenever the spec for HDMI can accommodate 4:4:4.
The XTP II CP HD 4K PLUS matrix boards are ideal for XTP Systems that require local routing of HDMI 2.0 signals. The XTP II CP 4i HD 4K PLUS input board can accept signals from up to four local HDMI sources, and includes analog stereo inputs to support audio embedding. For further flexibility and streamlined integration, these boards can convert between analog and digital audio formats for independent routing within the system. Additionally, embedded audio signals can be extracted and output from the XTP II CP 4o HD 4K PLUS as analog stereo for simplified connectivity into supporting audio systems.
XTP Systems provide a completely integrated switching and distribution solution for multiple digital and analog formats. They support local connectivity, as well as extended transmission capability to send video, audio, bidirectional RS232 and IR, and Ethernet up to 330 feet (100 meters) over a shielded CATx cable. Even greater distances can be reached over fiber optic cabling with single-mode and multi-mode options. Matrix switcher sizes from 4×4 up to 64×64 provide a wide range of possibilities for new applications and system upgrades to support emerging video standards and formats. XTP II is the only AV technology platform that supports uncompressed 4K video while providing additional bandwidth to accommodate anticipated future video resolutions and formats.
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InFocus Adds Projected Capacitive Touch Technology and 4K Resolution InFocus Corporation is adding capabilities, including projected capacitive touch and 4K resolution, to a variety of its interactive touchscreen and video conferencing solutions, the company announced today.
InFocus’ new 65-inch Mondopad, interactive 65-inch and 70-inch JTouch whiteboards, as well as the previously annouced 40-inch JTouch whiteboard and 65-inch Canvas Touch are the first InFocus products to employ projected capacitive touch. The technology, used on leading smartphones and personal tablets, eliminates the need for a stylus and enables a more intuitive and responsive user experience. Unlike IR touchscreens, capacitive touch technology allows more touch points with faster response and bezel-free edge-to-edge glass, allowing for a brighter and sharper display, a sleek design and remarkably fluid multi-touch capabilities.
The 4K Ultra HD screen resolution provides incredible clarity- four times the detail of a 1080p high definition display. A 4K display enables clearer images with more nuance and detail, creating the most realistic video experience possible.
InFocus is dedicated to integrating the best premium technology and will continue to offer additional sizes and combinations of interactive displays across its product line, to grow its customer solutions to meet the needs of changing office and mobile environments, while improving communication, collaboration and interaction.
The following products are available now:
- Capacitive touch 65-inch INF6502WBp JTouch: $3,899
- 4K 80-inch INF8002 JTouch: $14,999
- Capacitive touch Canvas Touch, price contingent on configuration
- Capacitive touch 40-inch INF4030 JTouch: $1,299
The 4K 80-inch INF8022 Mondopad is $17,799 and will be available in June.
The 4K, capacitive touch 70-inch INF7002WB JTouch, $6,999, and capacitive touch 65-inch INF6521 Mondopad, $7,799, will be available in July. InFocus is here. Leave a Comment
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Atlona Ships 4K Switcher Featuring HDMI/HDBaseT Inputs Atlona announced that its new premier commercial-market 4K switcher, the AT-UHD-SW-5000ED, is now shipping. The five-input switcher includes two HDBaseT inputs and mirrored HDMI/HDBaseT outputs, offering integrators more flexibility in designing boardroom, classroom and other AV presentation systems.
The SW-5000ED supports 4K/UHD@60 Hz, 4:2:0 video (10.2 Gbps) and transmits AV signals along with Ethernet, Power over Ethernet, and control over a single cable to displays up to 328 feet (100 meters) from the switcher. Built-in control options include auto-switching, front-panel buttons, and compatibility with IR, RS232 or TCP/IP-based control systems. The switcher also offers three HDMI inputs and audio de-embedding of digital audio from HDMI to two-channel, balanced analog audio.
The SW-5000ED enables two Atlona HDVS transmitters to be used in a single system and also supports the Atlona Management System (AMS). Displays connected to the SW-5000ED can be automatically turned on and off using IP, RS232 or CEC control. Additional advanced features include a web-based GUI for easy set-up and management of EDID, HDCP and display control. The switcher is equipped with USB and LAN ports for firmware updating.
The SW-5000ED features a compact, 1U, half-rack width enclosure that is installed with included 19″ rack-mount brackets that allow two units to be mounted side-by-side.
The AT-UHD-SW-5000ED switcher has a list price of $1,549.95 and it’s here. Leave a Comment
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Visionary Solutions Introduces 4K Over IP Visionary Solutions has introduced a 4K UHD video system that sends signals over standard Gigabit IP networks. Visionary’s new 4000-Series 4K Encoder and Decoder deliver “visually lossless,” ultra-low latency UHD video over Gigabit Ethernet. The E4000 encoder and D4000 Decoder employ the flexibility and scalability of today’s converged IP networks to carry Ultra High Definition content without the constraints and limitations of traditional switch matrix systems. This product was picked for our InfoComm Top-10 Tour.
With Visionary’s PacketTV and PacketAV products, 4K UHD, as well as full 1080p HD and lower resolution content can be deployed to a virtually limitless number of screens over any standard GbE network, even sharing space on existing enterprise networks, using standard network protocols and devices. A single network can carry audio, video, and data. Installation is a breeze, with no need for expensive proprietary components or 10GbE switches. Distributed displays and multi-component video walls are easily configured, and controllers from Crestron, AMX and other third parties are supported.
You an see the 4K over IP line here. Leave a Comment
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BenQ Releases BlueCore DLP Laser ProjectorBenQ America today unveiled an addition to its professional line of BlueCore laser light source projectors. Designed for large-venue professional installations such as entertainment applications, corporate meeting rooms, houses of worship, educational facilities and more, the LU9715 features an high brightness output of 8,000 lumens. Claiming to provide a significantly improved color performance through a dual color wheel system, the projector supports 360-degree and portrait projection and 24/7 operation for expanded installation opportunities.
Featuring a dual-array laser light source, the WUXGA 8,000 ANSI lumen LU9715 spec’d for 20,000 hours of operation at full brightness without lamp replacement. To harness the high output of BlueCore laser light, it employs a dual color wheel that produces flawless RGBY color with enhanced color intensity, balance and fidelity. Based on DLP technology, the LU9715 offers crisp and long-lasting color accuracy that never degrades or fades over time. In addition, the Custom Light Mode consistently blends brightness across multiple projections. The LU9715 offers eight optional lenses that feature all-glass construction quality with throw ratios ranging from TR 0.38 to TR 8.19 for ultra-clear focus that produces brighter images in venues of any size.
BlueCore laser projectors also feature spontaneous response, requiring less than a 30-second wait to turn on or resume from blank function, which achieves true black for zero light intrusion. The BenQ LU9715 BlueCore laser projector ships in late June and here are the specs. Leave a Comment
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ClearOne Adds New Two-Channel Wireless Microphone System ClearOne is introducing the new compact two-channel DIALOG 20 mic system at InfoComm. Using adaptive frequency-hopping spread spectrum technology within the 2.4 GHz unlicensed spectrum, DIALOG 20 has some advantages over fixed frequency transmission. First, DIALOG 20 is resistant to narrowband interference because it switches frequency using a pseudo-random sequence. Second, this sequencing makes the frequency-hopping signals very difficult to intercept. Third, the use of 128 bit AES encryption on each hopped frequency further secures the wireless audio transmission.
The unlicensed spectrum allows DIALOG 20 users to employ the same model with the same frequency plan worldwide, without being concerned about regulatory frequency restrictions or limitations by locale or country. DIALOG 20 comes with four transmitter options: handheld, belt-pack, gooseneck podium, and tabletop version with programmable buttons.
Each of the microphone transmitters has additional options suitable for any application. The podium has six-, 12-, and 18-inch gooseneck options. The handheld offers cardioid, super-cardioid and hyper-cardioid heads. The belt-pack has clip-on and headset versions, while the tabletop boundary transmitter offers omni and cardioid mics.
While the new DIALOG 20 works seamlessly with all commercially available mixers, it boasts additional features when natively interfacing with ClearOne’s new CONVERGE Pro 2 or new Beamforming Microphone Array 2. These features include powering DIALOG 20 receivers from a CONVERGE Pro 2 mixer or Beamforming Microphone Array 2 as well as daisy-chaining up to three DIALOG 20 receivers. When not connected to CONVERGE Pro 2, the wireless receiver can be powered through either the micro USB port or PoE (Power over Ethernet) injector.
The receivers may be mounted on a rack shelf, a wall or ceiling. Equipped with an integrated antenna, DIALOG 20 offers an option to extend the antennae up to 20 feet away. The receivers can be configured and monitored using a Windows software application. ClearOne says a Mac OS version is coming soon.
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Gefen Ships GTB-UHD-HBT2 4K Ultra HD HDBaseT 2.0 Extender for HDMI Gefen today announced that the 4K Ultra HD HDBaseT 2.0 Extender for HDMI (GTB-UHD-HBT2) is now shipping. The GTB-UHD-HBT2 uses the new HDBaseT 2.0 Colligo platform which is spec’d to carry, in addition to video, RS-232, Bi-directional IR, and Power over HDBaseT — but, NO ONE KNOWS FOR SURE as the HDBaseT Alliance doesn’t actually monitor or manage their own standard.
The POH (Power over HDBaseT) technology provides power to the Receiver unit using the same CAT-5 cable that extends the HDMI and control signals, and only the Sender needs an external power supply. Via the GTB-UHD-HBT2, 1080p Full HD and 1920 x 1200 (WUXGA) 8-bit video can be extended up to 495 feet (150 meters). Resolutions up to 4K DCI-Cinema (4096×2160 @ 30 Hz 4:4:4) and 4K Ultra HD (3840×2160 @ 60 Hz 4:2:0), along with the latest HDCP 2.2 encryption, are supported. 7.1 channels of LPCM and HBR (High Bit Rate) lossless digital audio including Dolby Atmos, Dolby TrueHD, DTS:X, and DTS-HD Master Audio are passed through.
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AIR Wireless Companion Speaker Debuts at InfoComm 2016InfoComm marked the debut of the Liberty AIR and MegaVox AIR wireless companion speakers from Anchor Audio, Inc. The company has offered unpowered companion speakers for many years, but now Liberty AIR and MegaVox AIR set a new industry standard, as the first battery-powered wireless companion speakers in Anchor Audio’s line.
The AIRs are battery powered, perform six to eight hours or more on a single charge, and can be placed 150+ feet from the transmitter. (Transmitters come as an optional built-in upgrade to the main sound system.) One transmitter can connect to an unlimited number of AIR wireless companion speakers. The AIR wireless technology offers 100 user-selectable channels operating within the 900 MHz frequency, which is one of the few clear channel ranges available and therefore limits interference from competing signals. Furthermore, the 900 MHz band offers expanded wireless range for an increased transmission distance. AIR companion speakers can also operate in ‘wired mode,’ which includes simply flipping a switch and plugging in a cable.
Currently, Anchor’s Liberty Platinum Portable Sound System and MegaVox Pro Portable PA System offer AIR wireless companion speakers.
The AIR companion transmitter also connects seamlessly with Anchor Audio’s Assistive Listening Devices (ALB-9000), which operate on the same 902-928 MHz, resulting in an immediate ADA-compliant sound system. Main-unit systems are available with up to two wireless microphone receivers in addition to the AIR wireless companion transmitter.
The Liberty AIR wireless companion speaker is priced at $1,000 list, and the MegaVox AIR wireless companion speaker is $550 list and all the details are here. Leave a Comment
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New Company, Avocor, Is Launched in UK — Takes Aim at both SMART and MicrosoftSMART Technologies has new competition from a brand called Avocor. I had a chance to see a private demo of this at InfoComm and the best way to describe what their first offering, called the Vividtouch is that it’s a combination Microsoft Surface HUB and SMART interactive touchcreen — but it runs Windows 10.
The company, founded by Nigel Steljes (of Steljes distribution fame) will aim the Vividtouch line of interactive flat panels at both business and education applications.
Technically, the Vividtouch VTF series was launched at BETT in 2016, a UK-based show that happened about a month before the ISE (Integrated Systems Europe) show and garnered a lot of attention. We actually shot a video it it at ISE. The interactive panels are designed to offer users a tablet-like experience – replicating the responsive, smooth and familiar touch performance on a large touch screen that you are used to on a mobile phone, but in a large-format display aimed at both workplace and classroom environments.
Some of the features that differentiate the 65”, 75” or 84” Vividtouch product include front-panel connectivity (via USB and HDMI), wireless collaboration connectivity, a touch sensitivity that is some of the best I have ever seen — it’s instant without any delay on the screen (they call this InGlass Technology) and it’s integrated with Windows 10 embedded in the display.
You can learn about Avocor here and see the product here. Leave a Comment
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Nureva Appoints Avocor As Its Authorized Distributor in the UK Nureva just announced the appointment of Avocor Limited as its authorized distributor in Great Britain and Northern Ireland for its Nureva Span system and Nureva HDL300 audio conferencing system.
“We are delighted to welcome Avocor as our authorized distributor in Great Britain and Northern Ireland,” said Nancy Knowlton, Nureva’s CEO. “We look forward to actively working with the Avocor team and its various channel members to build the market for Nureva’s products in the UK.”
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Bose Introduces ControlCenter Zone Controllers, Serving Bose PowerShare, FreeSpace and ControlSpace Products Bose Professional announces the introduction of its new ControlCenter zone controllers. The ControlCenter series is a set of remote controls for use with Bose FreeSpace amplifiers, PowerShare amplifiers and ControlSpace processors.
The three models are: ControlCenter CC-1, providing volume control; ControlCenter CC-2, offering volume plus A/B source selection; and ControlCenter CC-3, offering volume plus A/B/C/D source selection.
Users will notice an intuitive interface, making it simple to configure all ControlCenter units with FreeSpace, PowerShare or ControlSpace products. Three ControlCenter models are available in either black or white, offering an attractive, modern look. All models fit in 1-gang electrical box sizes in North America, Japan, and Europe, and can be daisy-chained to reduce wiring.
Also being introduced is the Bose ControlCenter CV41 4-to-1 converter, which simplifies wiring when using multiple ControlCenter CC-1 zone controllers with a PS602 or PS604 PowerShare amplifier. The CV41 converter supports up to four CC-1 controllers, allowing each CC-1 to homerun to the amplifier.
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Christie Intro AP Series of Compact, Affordable ProjectorsThe new Christie AP Series of 3LCD projectors deliver 5,000 ANSI lumens in a compact and very affordable package. Both the Christie LW502 and Christie LWU502 deliver the Christie performance standard and HDBaseT (HDBT) single-cable connectivity for both digital signal and control. With the LW502 delivering 5,000:1 and LWU502 offering up to 10,000:1 contrast ratio, images are crisp and clear, ensuring impactful, worry-free presentations. Ideal for easy installation in classrooms and meeting spaces, each model offers up to 6,000 hours lamp-life and integrated audio.
Christie AP Series also includes edge blending, warping, DICOM simulation and an optional wireless adapter for connecting wirelessly to a LAN and showing presentations from a remote computer. Featuring a comprehensive list of I/O connections, the Christie AP Series manages a variety of integration environments and content sources.
“The Christie AP Series combines the quality Christie is famous for with an exceptional value- add proposition,” said Jim Hall, senior product manager, Christie. “With its rich feature set and low cost of ownership, the Christie AP Series delivers an impressive presentation every time.”
The Christie LW502 and Christie LWU502 ship in the summer of 2016, backed by a three-year warranty and Christie’s industry-leading customer support.
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Crestron Enters AV over IP Network MarketAt InfoComm, Crestron demo’d it’s new video over 1Gb Ethernet infrastructure product line that allows for AV signal routing without a matrix switcher. The network allows for routing of HD signals and H. 264 sources, such as IP cameras, anywhere on the network, including Crestron touch screens, digital signage displays, remote buildings, and global offices. Network AV utilizes existing Ethernet infrastructure and standard devices, so no new wiring or technology is required.
DM transmits H.264 video at around 10Mb/s and bandwidth consumption is controllable — up to 25 Mb/s for the highest quality, down to less than 1 Mb/s for long distance and mobile applications, where bandwidth is limited and/or very expensive.
In addition to network AV input and output cards for DM modular matrix switchers, Crestron offers the HD Streaming Transmitter/Receiver (DM-TXRX-100-STR) and HD Streaming Receiver & Room Controller 100 (DM-RMC-100-STR). Together, they provide low-cost solutions for adding network AV to any space. Crestron says that no switcher or control system is required.
Configurable as a standalone transmitter or receiver, the DM-TXRX-100-STR is a H.264 network AV encoder/decoder designed to transmit HD content anywhere on the IP network and receive network AV content from anywhere on the network.
The DM-TXRX-100-STR can be integrated with a DMPS3-4K Series Presentation System, a 4K 8X1 switcher (HD-MD8X1-4K or DM-MD8X1-4K-C), or one of the DM transmitters.
With its ability to receive H.264 video over a single PoE LAN connection, the DM-RMC-100-STR provides a solution for displaying network AV content in lobbies, lounges, cafeterias, or anywhere you want to display HD content. Image overlay capability enables organizations to brand their network AV content by overlaying a logo. Dynamic text makes it simple to label video, or display instructions, schedules, alerts, and other messaging.
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Bose Professional Launches New Line of Adaptable PowerShare AmplifiersThe new Bose PowerShare adaptable power amplifier line consists of three 1U models: two- and four-channel fixed-install models (PS602 and PS604) and one two-channel portable amplifier (PS602P). Each model delivers 600 watts of power that can be shared across all output channels. With support for both low- and high-impedance loads up to 100V, PowerShare amplifiers adapt to a wide range of applications. Onboard configurable loudspeaker processing and direct access to zone controllers eliminate the need for an additional signal processor in many installations, while outstanding audio performance and reliability are assured with patented technologies inherited from the field-proven PowerMatch line.
Patented PowerShare technology allows asymmetrical sharing of total amplifier power across outputs. Instead of selecting amplifier power based on the needs of the largest zone, installers now have the flexibility to use total amplifier power in the application. This enables more flexibility during the initial design, or later on-site when making unplanned changes that take advantage of surplus power.
PowerShare amplifiers employ the Dual Feedback Loop (DFL) system, inherited from the Bose PowerMatch amplifier line, improving performance and reliability through continuous monitoring and control of both the current and voltage delivered to each output load. This combination provides improved linearity and lower distortion, while providing loudspeaker protection. Additionally, each channel can be configured for low-impedance (4-8 Ω) or high-impedance (70/100V) applications without bridging, use of jumpers or software settings.
For applications requiring additional signal processing, the PowerShare Editor software offers real-time selection and control of Bose loudspeaker EQs, 9-band PEQs, mixing, crossover, limiters, delay, and mute/output polarity through a USB connection. For basic setups without a PC, rear-panel settings allow installers to recall Bose loudspeaker equalization and protection per output channel. These features eliminate the need for an external signal processor in many applications.
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Middle Atlantic Products Expands Backup Power Solutions Middle Atlantic Products today announced its new series of Premium Online UPS Backup Power Systems, broadening its range of UPS products to address more mission-critical, sensitive, and high-end systems needing the ultimate level of backup power protection. Ideal for applications in commercial AV, security or residential AV, the latest Premium Online UPS Backup Power Systems Series isolates and conditions output power through a double conversion process, offering the cleanest possible power solution to ensure system reliability that AV integrators demand. The solutions join Middle Atlantic’s Select Series and line interactive Premium Series UPS products, providing integrators with a robust portfolio of power protection solutions to meet virtually any price point, space requirement, and system environment.
Premium Online UPS Backup Power Systems are available in three models: 1500VA, 2200VA and 3000VA, and feature the longest runtime available in a 2RU form factor. This form factor offers integrators a quick, one-person installation and allows them to easily add up to 10 expansion battery packs to extend runtime protection for even the most demanding environments. As front-accessible systems, integrators can easily install and maintain them, while hot-swappable batteries eliminate downtime due to maintenance. Battery life is fully monitored and reported, sending notifications in real time for optimal performance and reliability. An optional IP card gives technicians the power to remotely monitor and control the system’s health more efficiently.
Additional Online UPS features include pure sine wave output waveform, permanent connection to the battery for zero transfer time, automatic voltage regulation, non-critical load shedding, and EMI/RFI filtering for the cleanest possible power.
The Premium Online UPS Backup Power Systems debuted at InfoComm 2016 and you can see them here. Leave a Comment
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New AmpliVox ADA Compliant Lectern Accommodates All Presenters AmpliVox Sound Systems just introduced its new ADA Compliant Lectern SN3900, a unique presentation option that accommodates individuals who use wheelchairs as well as those who stand.
AmpliVox’s ADA Compliant Lectern is designed to meet or exceed the 2010 Standards for Accessible Design issued by the US Department of Justice under the Americans with Disabilities Act. A conveniently located rocker switch adjusts the lectern’s height anywhere from seated (31”) to standing (41”), allowing the same lectern to be used comfortably by all presenters. Seated individuals appreciate the ease of entry and exit afforded by its oversized rear access area. Its wide configuration provides a spacious tabletop work surface as well as easy entry and exit at the rear of the lectern. The lectern moves easily on four industrial locking casters, and can be customized with a task light, digital clock, power outlet, cable port, or work surface cutouts. The classic design of the lectern, with curved edges and an attractive oak finish, fits any professional venue.
“AmpliVox is proud to introduce this attractive and functional lectern that can serve the needs of any presenter, including those who need accommodations for height and width,” notes Don Roth, AmpliVox CEO. “AmpliVox’s products have been used by customers ranging from television personality Dr. Jennifer Arnold of The Little Couple, who stands 3’ 2”, to FBI Director James B. Comey who is 6’ 8”. We understand the need to create functional, versatile height adjustable products that work well for everyone.”
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Sony’s InfoComm Introductions Include Best LED-Based Video Wall EVER Sony is literally blowing people away with their new Crystal LED technology. Sony’s new Canvas display system is a high-end visual display that re-defines the landscape for large-scale visual entertainment. The new technology, Crystal Light Emitting Diode Integrated Structure (CLEDIS), uses Sony’s ultrafine LEDs in a unique surface mounting structure as its light source to deliver a visual experience not possible with even the highest end conventional LED array. This scalable new type of canvas delivers an unmatched viewing experience, offering 99 percent black surface area, for high contrast, high resolution and immersive visuals.
This new type of canvas enables limitless flexibility and creativity in public spaces and high-end visual entertainment. It is far more advanced when compared to the technologies currently available for large-scale display, offering a leap forward in depth, contrast, color, resolution and impact.
Sony’s Canvas display technology is designed for a range of commercial applications and immersive experiences, from industrial product design and manufacturing, theme parks, museums, and high-traffic lobbies to corporate boardrooms and broadcast studios. It is ideal for any environment requiring intricately detailed video displays and realistic simulation on a large scale. Here are the details.
The VPL-GTZ270 is a 4K laser projector with 5000-lumen brightness making it ideal for a range of B2B and commercial applications, especially for entertainment use including planetariums, theme parks, museums and retail. The projector is designed to create an immersive reality viewing experience, with image enhancement functions including “Reality Creation” upscaling and compatibility with High Dynamic Range (HDR) content, giving users the ability to view the entire range of an image accurately and clearly. A wide color space covers the full DCI range and simulates the new ITU-R BT2020 color gamut. The GTZ270 is extremely quiet and virtually maintenance-free for 20,000 hours of operation, even in the most demanding conditions. It can also operate in 4K 3D mode.
The VPL-GTZ280 is a 4K projector with options for higher brightness up to 5000 lumens making it ideally suited for simulation and training applications. It uses high-speed motion functions and new high-speed 4K 120Hz signal processing capability for 4K3D 60Hz left eye/right eye and reducing blur in fast motion scenes, in addition to smear and transport delay reduction, infrared light output for night vision stimulation and vibration resistance.
At InfoComm, Sony is showing its full PTZ camera line, including the SRG-120DU and the SRG-360SHE models.
New to the line is Sony’s SRG-360SHE 30x robotic model. This new model adds power over Ethernet (PoE+) and triple simultaneous video and audio streaming (embedded audio in IP, HDMI and 3G-SDI). The simultaneous output of 1080/60p baseband video through the three streaming outputs makes it ideal for webcasting and viewing while simultaneously recording live events.
The SRG-360SHE is designed for use in classrooms, courtrooms, boardrooms, houses of worship and other settings where full HD visual communications are needed. In addition to the triple streaming outputs, other advances in the SRG-360SHE include a series of enhanced PTZ capabilities to produce professional-looking results even with non-professional camera operators. ‘Semi-Synchronous Simultaneous Motion’ improves transitions between subjects, delivering smooth, coordinated camera motion that does not distract viewers. A Slow P/T setting allows for precise tracking of objects or people, for example, a speaker walking across a stage. PTZ Trace Memory provides the ability to store a sequence of camera movements as a preset. With “trace,” a complicated series of motions/commands can be carried out flawlessly and replicated as needed.
The SRG-120DU is Sony’s first USB 3.0 PTZ Camera and is being widely designed into corporate boardrooms due to its professional picture quality, ease of installation/use and compact, lightweight design. The HD model incorporates Sony’s high-sensitivity 1/2.8 -type Exmor CMOS sensor and the latest View-DR technology. It also features UVC video compatibility and a wide field of view with plug-and play simplicity for superb image quality, even in challenging lighting conditions. More information is here.
Sony is showcasing its expanding laser projector lineup, offering 14 models spanning from 2,000 lumens to 7,000 lumens and meeting nearly every commercial AV application. To go along with these new projectors, Sony has the first interchangeable ultra-short throw lens for 3LCD projectors.
Featured projector models include:
VPL-FWZ65/VPL-FWZ60: Sony’s VPL-FWZ65 (6,000 lumen) and VPL-FWZ60 (5,000 lumen) 3LCD Laser Light Source Projectors offers bright, beautiful images with low running costs, minimal maintenance and flexible installation. The powerful Z-Phosphor laser light source is teamed with Sony’s advanced BrightEra 3LCD projection engine to deliver extremely crisp WXGA (1,280 x 800) resolution images with natural-looking rich, stable colors. Offering 20,000 hours of virtually maintenance-free operation, reality creation to analyze and process every input signal to refine detail, clarity and sharpness for naturally up-scaled images, edge blending to seamlessly blend images from multiple projectors and a variety of optional lenses, the new projectors are a high-performing choice with a low total cost of ownership that is ideal for a wide range of business, education and general presentation applications.
VPL-FHZ57: Featuring many of the same benefits as Sony’s other laser projectors, the VPL-FHZ57 operates at 370W power, making it the most energy-efficient laser light source projector. The low power consumption also reduces heat dissipation, in turn lowering fan noise. The VPL-FHZ57 laser projector has the quietest operation in its class (32dB, 28dB at Standard Brightness mode).
VPL-FHZ65: Sony’s VPL-FHZ65 6,000lm WUXGA (1920×1200) laser projector uses a BrightEra panel technology to reproduce natural and vivid color. It is designed to deliver enhanced picture quality using features including “Reality Creation” and “Contrast Enhancer,” technologies already in use by Sony’s home theater projection systems. Reality Creation analyzes and processes input signals to refine detail, clarity and sharpness for naturally up-scaled images. The Contrast Enhancer feature expands the perceived dynamic range of the signal.
VPLL-3003 — Ultra-Short Throw lens for Sony projectors: Sony’s newest lens option is the VPLL-3003 ultra-short throw lens, the first interchangeable ultra-short throw lens for 3LCD projectors. This lens offers sharp focus and minimized picture distortion due to a large mirror system, and easy adjustment of lens shift and focus via remote control. Its 0.33:1 throw ratio allows it to be used in tight spaces with no clearance from the wall.
The lens can project an 80” to 300” diagonal image with minimal throw distance (39” throw distance for 140” diagonal image), making it ideal for small meeting rooms, as digital signage or use in museums.
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Sennheiser Shows MobileConnect for Live Audio Streams to SmartphonesMobileConnect from audio specialist Sennheiser is a product that provides live audio streaming to mobile devices. The universal system uses a Wi-Fi connection to stream lip-sync audio content to the user’s smartphone, which has an app that instantly converts it into a mobile receiver. Applications are unlimited: whether it is in a theatre, a museum, a university auditorium or a company – MobileConnect can be quickly and easily installed and is also cost-efficient in use. Thanks to its almost latency-free transmission of audio-content, MobileConnect is primarily aimed at assistive listening and audio description applications, but the solution can also be used for simultaneous interpretation.
MobileConnect consists of a streaming server providing the audio stream over WiFi, which users can connect to via the MobileConnect app on their own smartphone. The selected audio data are transferred to the device via the new free of charge MobileConnect multi-channel app, thus enabling users to play the content conveniently through headphones. Applications are unlimited: whether it is in a university, theatre, a museum, or a conference centre – MobileConnect can be quickly and easily installed and can offer a cost effective way to complement digital signage or offer assistive listening. This user-friendliness of the system is not just for end users: MobileConnect can be installed in a few easy steps for incredible rapid deployment.
Launched in February 2016, Sennheiser’s new MobileConnect app version takes the immediacy and functionality of the service to new levels. Users can now access the Personal Hearing Assistant straight from the channel screen, and the user interface of the Personal Hearing Assistant has been optimized for even greater user-friendliness. The MobileConnect app interface is now available in German, English, French and Spanish.
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Biamp Expands Devio Collaboration Tool With New Microphone OptionToday at InfoComm 2016, Biamp Systems introduced the Devio DCM-1 ceiling microphone, the latest addition to the Devio collaboration portfolio. Created specifically for huddle rooms and small gathering spaces, Devio enables fast, simple, and intuitive collaboration. With Devio’s easy-to-connect device (Devio CR-1) and advanced beamforming microphones, meetings are equipped with high-quality, laptop-based audio and video conferencing for enhanced user engagement and productivity.
The Devio CR-1 base unit is bundled with either the DCM-1 ceiling microphone or the DTM-1 tabletop microphone. Both models feature eight element beamforming microphone arrays that track voices within and mix audio across three 120-degree zones. The result is full 360-degree coverage, providing remote conference participants with a natural representation of the conversation as it occurs. Audio quality is further enhanced with integrated acoustic echo cancellation and noise reduction, and installation is simplified with Auto Setup. The DCM-1 is designed for easy installation in rooms with or without drop ceilings, and keeps the table clear for laptops or other meeting materials.
With the CR-1 base unit, Devio can pass video from the connected laptop to one monitor via a simple HDMI connection, or to two monitors via the included USB 3.0 cable using DisplayLink USB graphics technology. Devio also offers connectivity to a variety of other in-room devices, including USB web cameras, speakers, and more. Once connected to the CR-1, end users can share content locally and initiate their preferred soft codec from their computers — without additional software application or device training. For system administrators, multiple CR-1 units can be managed centrally using the Devio software administration utility (SAU) or via SNMP, and firmware and configurations can be mass deployed.
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Two New Crestron DMPS3-4K Series Models are Designed for Small RoomsCrestron has expanded its line of all-in-one DigitaMedia 3-Series Presentation Systems with two new models designed specifically for single-display applications. The three DMSP3-4K models all feature a built-in Crestron 3-Series Control System, analog and digital AV switching, 4K scaler, and direct LAN connectivity with Crestron Fusion software for network management.
Designed for small rooms, the DMPS3-4K-50 allows for connecting local sources to a local display, while the DMPS3-4K-100-C is designed to connect local sources to an extended display. The DMPS3-4K-150-C is for connecting remote sources to an extended display.
All three models feature built-in Crestron .AV Framework technology including auto-switching, Crestron Connect It cable caddies, automatic display on/off via CEC, and connectivity with the Crestron AirMedia presentation gateway for wireless BYOD capability.
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For all you REGULAR readers of rAVe ED [Education] out there, hopefully you enjoyed another opinion-packed issue!
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Everything we publish is opt-in — we spam NO ONE! rAVe ProAV Edition is our flagship publication with what we believe is a reach of virtually everyone in the ProAV market. rAVe HomeAV Edition is co-published with CEDIA, covering the HomeAV market. We added rAVe Rental [and Staging] in November 2007, rAVe ED [Education] in May 2008 and then rAVe DS [Digital Signage] in January 2009. We added rAVe GHGav [Green, Healthcare & Government AV] in August 2010 and rAVe HOW [House of Worship] in July 2012. You can subscribe to any of those publication or see ALL our archives by going to: https://www.ravepubs.com
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