Billed as the only interactive projector that includes SMART Notebook collaborative learning software, SMART's new LightRaise 40wi is an ultra-short throw (0.30:1) DLP projector that offers native WXGA resolution (1280x800). It's capable of projecting image sizes from 77" to 100", includes integrated 10-watt speakers, plus a microphone input, one HDMI input, two VGA inputs and network connection. It also comes pre-loaded with SMART Notebook collaborative learning software. Housed in a wall-mounted enclosure and designed as a purpose-built projector specifically for SMART classroom applications, the 40wi is spec'd by SMART as having 2500 lumens. It uses a 2500-hour lamp (with an eco-mode that helps the lamp achieve 4000 hours), has built-in scaling for everything from VGA to 3D HDTV and includes a rechargeable interactive pen. It's also truly a GreenAV product as it consumes less than 1 watt of power in standby mode.

If you're interested in seeing the brochure, go here: http://www.ravepubs.com/utility/documents/SMART-Technologies-LightRaise.pdf

If you're interested in what rAVe founder Gary Kayye thinks of this addition to the SMART product line, go here: http://ravepubs.com/rave2011/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=6554&catid=165:gary-kayye3&Itemid=247

In a perfect AV world, a consistent work effort put into a project would net a consistently (and proportionate) successful outcome. Unfortunately, beyond what can be attributed to Murphy, some projects seem to be resource drains until they finally make it to completion. But with this being a new year and all, lets not focus on those. Rather, this month’s focus of the AV Club body of knowledge will be on some real world tidbits that, given an AV Pro's other technical expertise, can push beyond "whew, finally done" to "and take that."

Before kicking off this dialog on such extras that contribute to end of project bonus(es), here are a few backdrop comments on the assumed AV Pro's tech experience. Suffice to say that none of these "extras" should be considered in place of the requisite applied technical skill required of the responsible parties. Rather, they are in addition to possessing and applying them. A gross example: If one project goal is to provide a new primary display for a classroom and the solution includes a slick-looking (but small for the room) flat screen display, when all is said and done, students in the back of the room complain (which is a major red flag as they rarely speak up on such things) they can't read the typical text content. No amount of "spin" of following extras will right that wrong.

OK, so aside from first addressing the right technology solutions, what are some elements that can contribute to pushing an AV project into high achievement?

Sliding Achievement Scale. The best AV project plan (typically articulated by the AV program document) includes some variability in its goals. This does not mean ambiguous goals so as to stack the deck for loose interpretation of ultimate success; rather, it’s acknowledgement that technology is always evolving and we want to maximize the return to the customer in terms of latest and greatest features. What is especially important here is to make sure that the new model upgrade offered "just in time" has all the original criteria needed… and at least one feature of those that were on a previous wish list. Then, make sure the end users are aware those wish list features were ultimately provided (at no additional cost, thank you!).

Know Thy AV User. Despite its politically incorrect connotation, profiling the real end user base can be helpful. And as any happy customer ultimately means, to some degree, cast the final product in his own image, it's important to understand how (or equally, how not) his view of things colors the likelihood of successful application of what might be an otherwise atypical solution in his environment. The dicey part of "build it and they will come," like the movie Field of Dreams, is that one could be literally alone (at least initially) in appreciating the final outcome. So listen, and probe, intently to what is initially described as the real end users’ goals for the AV system (and/or the space itself). These conversations can become slightly uncomfortable when they occur upfront. But that all fades away when the same folks are seeking you out afterwards for the next project due to your thoroughness.

Timing is everything. A great final project that is not ready for its first substantial use is going to be a hard sell. And, while perhaps a hallmark of great AV project management is making good decisions in time-critical situations, it's also true that almost all those decisions would be better made with a broader set of choices available when not under the sound of a ticking clock. So, don't assume "work by others" will be done as initially indicated and do assume you'll be expected to deliver on contingency plans. The theme here is to err on the side of being a pest to get critical tasks completed in time windows that allows for good decisions. This way the project vortex toward bad ones won't suck you (and your final product) down, but have you delivering solutions to an otherwise weary end user.

Shouldn't every AV project have the opportunity to be viewed in the end as being an overachiever? The obvious answer is yes, but getting there isn't as easy as just applying best AV practice. While our techie dreams have us wowing roomfuls of end users with the latest AV equivalent Red Ryder gadget, reality is what it takes to get that extra attention has more to do with the extras that matter to them.
   
The views expressed in this column do not necessarily reflect the views of the authors’ employer(s), past or present.

Greg Bronson, CTS-D, applies AV technologies in the development of innovative learning spaces for higher education. Greg spent the first 10 years of his career as AV technician and service manager, with the past 12+ years as an AV system designer and project manager. Bronson currently works for Cornell University and has also worked for two SUNY (State University of New York) campuses as well as a regional secondary education service depot. Bronson is the originator of concept for InfoComm’s Dashboard for Controls and has had completed projects featured in industry publications. You can reach Greg at This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it

InfoComm is hosting its inaugural Power of AV for Education event in the Washington, D.C., metro area on Feb. 16. The half-day session will be held at InfoComm's headquarters in Fairfax, Va., and give attendees the opportunity to hear success stories from their peers, network and discuss the issues most impacting education technology managers.

Attendees -- particularly managers serving primary, secondary and post-secondary institutions -- will be be able to see Technology in the University: Future Trends, a presentation by Andy Howard, managing director of Howard & Associates, which consults with clients on using IP video to enhance communications. Attendees will also learn from three case studies, presented by technology managers representing the University of Pennsylvania Wharton School of Business, George Mason University and Providence College.

You can register or review the agenda here: http://www.infocomm.org/cps/rde/xchg/infocomm/hs.xsl/19544.htm

Platinum Tools has launched of its new line of hanging hardware options for hanging ceiling wire, jack chain, threaded rod and eye lag screws. All made of steel, the hardware options are powder actuated for fastening to concrete and also include threaded and non-threaded holes to accommodate jack chain, ceiling wire or threaded rod.

Detail are all here: http://www.platinumtools.com

Dukane is entering the low cost interactive whiteboard market, now offering to Dukane dealers Hitachi's StarBoard Link EZ. The StarBoard Link EZ secures to any flat surface to transform a static wall or whiteboard into an interactive environment using a computer and a projector. The size of active area is adjustable -- from 45’’ if the surface is limited, to 90’’ for the rooms where a bigger work space is required. You can use your finger, a stylus or any object to navigate through activities, websites and multi-media content. It also supports multi-touch.

It list for $749 and comes with a five-year warranty. For more information on Hitachi Starboard, click here [PDF]: http://www.ravepubs.com/utility/documents/StarBoardLinkEZSpec.pdf