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Volume 11, Issue 3.2 — February 12, 2013 (ISE Coverage Issue 2 of 2)
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Welcome to another issue of rAVe ProAV Edition!
This month you'll get three issues of rAVe Pro AV Edition, and this is the second of those three. We had so much news from Integrated Systems Europe in Amsterdam last month, we had to schedule another issue! In today's issue, we're covering the second half of ISE news. You can see the first half here. If you didn't make it to the show, be sure to check out our ISE portal here: https://www.rAVeNOWise.com, where we've posted more than 1,200 videos, plus blogs, Tweets and more coverage live from the show. It's the next best thing to being there.
Enjoy the issue!
–Gary Kayye, CTS Back to Top 
Are Multiple Display Solutions the New Norm?
By Chris Chinnock
DisplayDaily  I am in Amsterdam attending the ISE 2013 exhibition, and where we just concluded the innaugural Megapixel Summit event. While desktops, public signage, rental and staging, visualization and lots of other applications have used multiple displays for a long time, it seems to me that there may be a shift in expectations going on. I am wondering if a single display solution is almost becoming a thing of the past for most professional applications – and if that trend will translate into the more broader consumer market. And I am not alone as projectiondesign’s David Aleksandersen raised this same question in his talk at the Megapixel Summit. Anyone walking the trade show floor might come to the same conclusion too. Everywhere you look there are multiple desktop monitor solutions with the mounts to facilitate this, blended projection systems are everywhere; traditional tiled LCD walls adorn many booths and rear-projection building blocks, like the microtiles from Christie and the omninSHAPES devices from eyevis, allow novel and creative uses of multiple display elements. While much of these application are for public spaces and professional uses, ordinary personal desktops are going in this direction too. I bet many of you are now using two monitors on your desktop. And some of you may have a projector or large flat panel in your office for small collaborations. But sharing content across those displays can be tricky. Which brings me to my main point: If multiple display use is the new norm, we have a lot of work to do to make this easy to use for mass adoption. In the day and a half we ran the Megapixel Summit it was clear that there are many ways to source content, to manage it and to display it across large digital canvases. The graphic below illustrates some of the complexity where content in many resolutions and formats needs to be made available on a variety of displays or variable resolution over various connections. How do you do that easily and maintain the best image quality? Clearly control rooms, live events, digital signage, collaborations, product design and visualization and many other applications are solving this problem. These may be large arrays of discrete display elements or seamless (or near-seamless) palettes of display surface. And they don’t have to be 4:3 or 16:9 shapes: in fact, often they are not. Look around ISE and Megapixel Summit and you will realize there are dozens of ways to generate, process, distribute and display content on multiple displays. In addition, many of these applications are now adding some sort of interactivity and/or content sharing utility. That can get really confusing really fast. So think about that. Isn’t that exactly what we will come to expect on our desktop for our jobs, but also at home? We will want this information and entertainment across all our platforms – the anywhere, anytime theme, but we also want more pixels and a bigger unified digital display canvas. This theme is evident in the large TVs that are the hottest selling segment of the TV industry. Could tiled displays or blended projectors become a fixture of homes and small offices as prices come down? I don’t know, but it is an interesting thought to ponder. In the meantime, there are many professional and commercial multiple display applications to work on, which is why ISE is such a big show – and why we organized the Megapixel Summit. These solutions remain complex so anything the industry can do to increase education and simplify the solutions will go a long way toward increasing the proliferation of multiple display solutions – which by the way, is not a commodity sale so something most integrators should welcome. It is going to be fun to watch.
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THE “F” Word
By Ron Devoe
Guest Columnist  The “F” word has become prevalent in more conversational circles and its multiple uses leave little doubt as to its meaning. I believe that within our industry we have a better command of the King’s English and a better sense of propriety than to speak that “F” word continuously. I would offer an “F” word that is gaining greater usage, while evoking a similar negative reaction – that “F” word is FORECASTING.
Forecasting had its roots in meteorology, where weathermen raised their fingers in the air to predict weather patterns. The accuracy of these predictions has been a source of humor for some time. Now, our industry has fully embraced Forecasting as a necessary tool for business success. While I fully understand the need for manufacturers to produce products in the correct amount for timely delivery, Forecasting methods have caused more pain than relief.
As an aged veteran of this industry and an independent manufacturer’s representative, I have watched and endured the rise of the “F” word. In the ‘80s and early ‘90s, I would meet with my manufacturers to discuss our dealer network with its strengths and possibilities, the market climate and the manufacturer’s place relative to product need and competition. From this discussion, combining cumulative national data and sticking our fingers in the air, I, the rep, and the manufacturers determined what the national sales goals could and should be and then what percentage my territory should represent.
In recent years, reps have been summoned into dark rooms with a single light shining on their faces as one or two sales managers across the table forced reps into agreeing to numbers that were satisfactory to the manufacturer. The result of each of these meetings was to establish “the Plan” which soon became addressed as “my Plan.” This made for ongoing conversations related to where I was with “my Plan,” or I how I needed to step up to complete “my Plan.” This ordeal is affectionately known as a sales meeting. I am happy that I retired prior to the introduction of high voltage and/or water boarding in these meetings.
Opportunity reporting became more prevalent, but woe unto those who mentioned a pending sale that exists somewhere out in the future. While these projects might be a media retrieval system for an un-built school, or a projection system for a church that is trying to raise the money, the knowledge that something is coming is too great to ignore. Reps are asked to report constantly on opportunities and if one is actually reported, then a monthly, weekly or every other nano-second update is required. To help bring these opportunities, manufacturers sometimes use motivational strategies such as threats, direct end-user contact and ransoming children to help direct the opportunity.
So now, we have Forecasting. Unfortunately, my role as rep diminished somewhat as I was required to make the Forecasting calls to my dealer network. While I had always felt welcome in dealer’s offices and enjoyed a sense of trust, I found that the Forecasting call resulted in unsecured appointments, unanswered emails or unreturned voice mails.
The weatherman, with his missed forecast, is rarely shot at dawn even though decisions on events, travel, planting, etc., are based on the accuracy of the weather Forecast. The rep is rarely granted such clemency. While many in this industry hate the “F”orecasting word, most hate the smell of “BO” (Back Order) even more. To avoid costly BO’s we have to have Forecasting. It just seems as though there would be an F’ing better way to do it.
Ron began working in the AV Industry in 1975, when he worked for dealerships in Texas. In 1984, he founded TOTAL Marketing, an independent manufacturer's representative firm calling on dealers in Texas, Okla., Ark. and La. Later Ron founded TM West and TM Distributing. In 2010, Ron retired from "active duty" by selling the TOTAL companies to his daughter, Darcy Harrell, who was active in the business for years. Ron maintains a consultant position with TOTAL, while also working for IPRO as the associate director for commercial AV reps and as a volunteer for SCORE
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InfoComm Opens 2013 Show Registration  More than 10,000 of the hottest technology products from more than 925 companies will be featured at InfoComm 2013 in Orlando, Florida, June 8-14, at the Orange County Convention Center. Attendee registration is now available at https://www.infocommshow.org.
InfoComm 2013 has more than 500,000 net square feet of show floor exhibits and special events space. More than 35,000 professionals are expected to attend the show, with a third of attendees coming from technology managers, specifiers and end-user communities. InfoComm caters to a broad spectrum of market sectors, including business, government, military, education, worship, healthcare, hospitality, retail and entertainment.
Showcasing the latest AV technology, InfoComm 2013 provides the multi-billion dollar industry and its customers with a thriving show floor, along with unsurpassed education and training. Attendees will hear from all the leading audio brands in demo rooms and on the show floor, get connected with collaborative conferencing in the Unified Collaborative Conferencing Pavilion, experience the latest signs of the times at the Digital Signage Pavilion and see the latest in illumination and production in the Lighting and Staging Pavilion. The Technologies for Worship Pavilion will feature the latest AV technology applied for House of Worship staff and volunteers, while new technology zones will highlight emerging trends in the areas of digital content creation, education applications, mobile videoconferencing and security solutions.
"The $78 billion AV industry continues to grow each year," said InfoComm Executive Director and CEO David Labuskes, CTS, RCDD. "Demand for AV technology, including control systems, conferencing, digital signage and networked audio, has increased dramatically in the built environment. Audiences expect increasingly spectacular live events. This interest has resulted in a thriving Show, and I am confident that InfoComm 2013 attendees will experience the most dynamic InfoComm ever."
InfoComm is often praised by attendees and exhibitors as the "can't miss" technology show of the year because of the ability to interact with all segments of the industry in just a few days, while having the opportunity to attend more than 300 educational sessions offered by InfoComm University and valued partner groups. Beyond the show floor, AV Technology Tours will allow attendees to see installed AV projects in action and networking activities will bring everyone together, allowing for the development of meaningful conversations and relationships.
The U.S. Department of Commerce is supporting InfoComm 2013 by promoting the show to overseas attendees because of its export potential, international interest, U.S. exhibitor offerings, stature and overseas marketing efforts. More than 4,500 attendees from 90 countries outside of North America are expected to visit the event.
InfoComm 2013 is sponsored by Christie, Crestron and Samsung. For more news on InfoComm 2013 before, during and after the show, visit https://www.infocommshow.org
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The Integrated Systems Expo Sees 8 Percent Increase in Attendance  rAVe had a crew of 14 people in Amsterdam last week for the ISE 2013 show in Amsterdam. ISE is basically InfoComm and CEDIA combined (in Europe) and the past two years it has been the best-attended AV industry tradeshow ever held, anywhere in the world. We covered it all with more than 1,200 videos, nearly 600 photos, more than 20 blogs, 10 LIVE podcasts, 670 tweets including new product pics and links and over 800 product news stories. You can see it all on a dedicated wed microsite here: https://www.ravenowise.com
The show’s 2013 final total of 44,151 registered attendees represents an 8 percent increase on 2012’s world record of 40,869. Just under 900 exhibitors — also a record for ISE — occupied all 12 halls of the Amsterdam RAI from Jan. 29 – 32, with most reporting a brisk three days of business involving a healthy mix of new and established contacts.
On Mon., Jan. 28, ISE celebrated its 10th edition with an opening Keynote Address by renowned cyber-illusionist Marco Tempest, followed by a 10th Birthday Party at which some of ISE’s Founding Exhibitors — those companies that have supported all 10 shows since Integrated Systems Europe began in Geneva in 2004 – were honored in a special presentation. The celebrations were preceded by three pre-show Conferences and more than 1,200 people attended the Monday events in total.
“Few who attended our inaugural event in 2004 could have imagined just how big, how interconnected and how inclusive ISE would become within less than a decade,” said Mike Blackman, managing director, Integrated Systems Events.
“ISE 2013 demonstrated more clearly than ever that the electronic systems integration industry is capable of defying economic headwinds and encouraging its stakeholder companies toward continued growth.”
During the on-site exhibitor rebooking process for ISE 2014, more than 500 companies reserved space totalling more than 30,000 square meters — some 93 percent of the show’s 2013 footprint and over 75 percent of the expanded area that ISE will occupy in Amsterdam next year.
Of particular note was the number of companies committing themselves to larger stands 12 months from now, and that many of these were smaller to medium-sized exhibitors who are relatively new to ISE.
“What we clearly see emerging now at ISE is a fresh wave of exhibitors that are building their businesses on the back of their ability to inspire new connections, greater collaboration and, perhaps above all, wonderful content,” Blackman said.
“All the signs point to a wonderful show in 2014, and a rosy future for an industry that continues to grow into business sectors that would have seemed out-of-bounds to us only a few short years ago.”
To see rAVe's coverage of ISE, go here: https://www.ravenowise.com
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Understand the Benefits of Moving to an IT-Based Electronic Systems Industry  NSCA has added Carlos Dominguez, senior vice president at Cisco, to the line-up to the Executive Power Hour during the 15th Annual NSCA Business & Leadership Conference, February 21-23, in Phoenix, AZ.
As a self-described “Tech Nowist,” Carlos promotes the critical role technology plays in today’s world — how to embrace, experiment, and leverage technology to improve business success. Carlos will lead this session centered around disruptive technologies and how to bridge the gap between IT and systems integrators.
“Carlos is a fantastic presenter and he understands the impact of the network and the cloud on our future. I’m thrilled he is able to join us and provide this key information to our attendees,” said Chuck Wilson, NSCA executive director. “Over the last several years, integrators have witnessed changing business models and technologies affecting the traditional AV and life safety industry. Technology is constantly changing and the rapid evolvement of IT means you need to learn how to adapt to change and understand business advancements. Knowing how to navigate thought this transformation and create business opportunities is one of the main reasons many of our attendees participate in this conference year after year. BLC is focused on current challenges and provides solutions from a broad perspective from thought provoking leaders and industry experts.”
Register for the only conference designed specifically for commercial electronic systems executives, managers and business owners. NSCA’s 15th Annual Business & Leadership Conference will be held February 21-23, at the Arizona Grand Resort & Spa in Phoenix, AZ. For more information or to register, visit https://www.nsca.org/blc or call 800.446.6722.
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Christie's "Book of Shapes" May Be Most Creative Marketing Spin, Ever, in ProAV  Showcasing digital creativity from around the globe, Christie's The Book of Shapes presents a unique collection of almost 70 display wall projects that have each explored shape through the Christie MicroTiles technology. It's in the form of a coffee-table-style book format with awesome photography and graphic detail outlining each installation. This may be the best, most creative, presentation of case studies in AV ever.
You can read about amazing projects like the London Stock Exchange’s atrium, the MicroTiles mountain range at the History Colorado Center and the World of Coca-Cola’s interactive wall in Atlanta.
You can order it in PDF format, as an iPad App or in the coffee table book format here: https://www.christiedigital.com/en-us/microtiles/Pages/christie-book-of-shapes.aspx
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PMA Announces Top-Selling Projector Models During December  PMA Research has posted its recent results to the “Top Selling Projectors” area of its website.
For more than 15 years now, PMA Research has collected monthly sell-through data from leading North American projector dealers, retailers, web resellers and distributors. Its Tracking Service family of monthly reports offers timely sell-through data and analysis on unit sales, true volume-weighted street prices and inventories of front projectors for these channels.
Each month, Pacific Media Associates posts the Top 5 Projector Lists for the following product categories:
New Era / Pico and Personal (sub-1000 lumens) Projectors – The December results showed that three of the Top 5 selling models, by unit volume, were in the Optoma PK Series of pico projectors. Coming in number one, two and three, respectively, were the Optoma PK-320, the Optoma PK-201 and the Optoma PK-120. Rounding out the Top 5 were AAXA’s M2 Micro pico projector and Vivitek’s Qumi Q2 personal projector. These results are almost a carbon copy of the previous month’s results. This “Top 5″ list is compiled from data collected from PMA’s monthly Retail Projector Tracking Service sample, which is made up of North American retailers and web resellers.
Mainstream (1,000 to 3,999 lumens) Projectors – For the Mainstream category in December, InFocus took top honors, by unit volume, with the best-selling IN112. InFocus also landed the number three spot with the IN114. Epson’s PowerLite 93+ was the second best-selling projector in December, and NEC rounded out the Top 5 list with the NP-M260X and NP-V260X in the fourth and fifth spots. In addition, XGA resolution models were most popular for Mainstream purchasers, with 4 of the Top 5 having 1024×768 resolution. This “Top 5″ list is compiled from data collected from PMA’s monthly Distributor Projector Tracking Service sample, which is made up of North American distributors.
High-End (4000+ lumens) Projectors – The December 2012 results showed Epson with two of the top selling models. The PowerLite 1945W took the top spot and the PowerLite Pro G5750WU came in fourth. Optoma’s TH1060P took the number two spot. NEC also made a strong showing with the NP-PA550W-13ZL in the number three spot and the NP-P420X taking the fifth spot. In addition, 3LCD models were the most popular in the High-End category, with 4 of the Top 5 using this technology. This “Top 5″ list is compiled from data collected from PMA’s monthly Pro A/V Projector Tracking Service sample, which is made up of North American dealers and integrators.
Resellers, distributors, manufacturers, and the press are invited to visit PMA’s site each month at https://www.pacificmediaassociates.com to see the 5 Top Selling projectors for these categories, as well as new product blogs and information on Pacific Media’s projector market research offerings.
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Snader & Associates Acquired by Diversified Systems  Diversified Systems announced Friday that it has acquired Snader & Associates of San Rafael, Calif. The Snader team brings a 37-year reputation for product knowledge, service and integrity along with an experienced staff of professionals who will continue to serve their customers throughout the western United States.
Diversified Systems is a leading solution provider in design, consulting, project management and turnkey integration services to major media & entertainment companies, sport venues, universities and houses of worship throughout the United States. The expanded company will continue to offer a full spectrum of services backed up by one of the largest engineering design and consulting teams focused on media and AV solutions in the United States. The new organization will have well over 200 employees in 8 offices across the U.S.
"I am extremely excited that our team is joining Diversified Systems. We believe in high-touch relationships with our clients and over our many years have enjoyed their trust and loyalty. Joining the Diversified team allows us to develop the sophisticated engineering solutions driving businesses today” said John Beritzhoff, president of Snader and Associates. “Today’s complex IP, Audio, and Video requirements demand the strongest engineering disciplines and Diversified has that strength to complement our team and to fulfill client needs for increased workplace productivity.” As senior vice president, Beritzoff’s immediate role will be to integrate the Snader team members and offices into Diversified’s west coast operations.
"The merging of these two high quality organizations was born of careful planning and much familiarity. We have partnered with Snader on numerous successful projects and we know that the culture of our organizations complement each other. This acquisition enables Diversified to formally build on Snader and Associates success by leveraging its 37 years in business, strong client base and western U.S. market expertise,” said Fred D'Alessandro, president of Diversified Systems. “With both companies honored among the Top 50 integrators nationally (Diversified is ranked #5), this acquisition provides our collective client base with the resources to build focused AV solutions, of any scale, across the country.”
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2.4 Million Projectors Ship in Q4 in EMEA  For calendar year 2012, the projectors market came in at 2.4 million units shipped in EMEA, showing very slight year-on-year volume growth of 1.02 percent on the 2.38 million units shipped in CY 2011, according to the latest round of research from Futuresource Consulting. Economic difficulties continued to hinder growth in the projector market during CYQ4, which reached a total volume of 678,000 units, a 'YoY' decline of 9.5 percent on CYQ4 2011. In the EMEA region, Germany posted a return to good business at 97,400 after a disappointing CYQ3 after the close of the European Football championships. However, Germany's full year territory accounted for 367,000 units showing YoY growth of 4.4 percent. Territories in Southern Europe showed another disappointing quarter with government austerity measures continuing to impact corporate and education spending. Spain, Italy and Greece have year-on-year volume declines of 34.1 percent, 16.5 percent and 33.6 percent, respectively in 2012. While Eastern Europe has fallen below Futuresource's expectations, Russia remains an area of strong growth with quarterly volumes of 69,000. The full year 2012 showed this territory to have achieved an increase from 198,400 units shipped in CY 2011 to 251,400 units in CY 2012, which equates to an outstanding 26.7 percent YoY increase. The majority of this growth had been driven by the education market, which saw substantial tendering for both projectors and Interactive Whiteboards throughout 2012. The MEA territory reached a CY 2012 total of 519,000 units, showing 4.5 percent growth on the previous CY 2011 total of 496,000 units. The UAE posted another strong quarter at 39,000 and also reports of distributors in the territory continuing to service demand in areas of North Africa. The MEA region therefore is forecast to achieve the greatest growth during 2013 and substantial education business is expected later in the year. Key Facts: - Solid State Illumination achieved 1.5 percent of the 1000 lumen+ projector market in EMEA with a total volume of 9.6k units, down from 1.6 percent of the market in CYQ4 2011 when volumes reached 11.6k units.
- Ultra Short Throw projection achieved 6.7 percent of the 1000 lumen+ projector market in EMEA with volumes of 43.0k units, up from 6.1 percent of the market in CYQ4 2011 when volumes reached 43.1k units.
- Interactive Projection accounted for 2.7 percent of the 1000 lumen+ projector market in EMEA with volumes of 17.5k units, up from 2.2 percent of the market in CYQ4 2011 when volumes reached 15.9k units.
- Widescreen formats accounted for 25.4 percent of the 1000 lumen+ B2B projector market, with volumes of 140.9k units in EMEA, up from 20.5 percent of the market in CYQ4 2011 when volumes reached 128.8k units.
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Polycom Announces Partner Awards at TEAM Polycom 2013  Polycom last week honored top-performing partners from around the world at an awards ceremony during TEAM Polycom 2013, the company’s annual sales and partner conference, held in Vancouver, British Columbia, Feb. 4-7, 2013. The Polycom Partner Awards recognize companies for leadership in each of the major partner categories and for excellence in the areas of services, innovation, integration and industry focus. In total, Polycom honored 70 companies for their achievements in 2012.
“We are thrilled to recognize and honor these top-performing partners who really went above and beyond to meet the needs of our joint customers,” said Ron Myers, senior vice president, worldwide channels, Polycom. “We serve a growing customer base, and an increasingly diverse one, as the power of video collaboration is fast becoming a business requirement for every organization, large and small. The Polycom Partner Award winners highlight how together we best meet the solution, service, and support needs of our customers. Our partners are absolutely critical to our success and these awards shine a spotlight so we can all learn from their achievements.”
The Polycom Partner Awards recognize global partners whose achievements impact Polycom's business on a worldwide basis, theater awards for each of the company's five operating regions, and country awards to partners that primarily do business within a single country. In addition to awards recognizing leaders in each key category, Polycom also recognizes partners with the Excellence Awards:
- Excellence in Services recognizes partners who excelled in services, customer satisfaction and engagement with Polycom's services and sales teams.
- Excellence in Innovation honors partners who demonstrated a unique or innovative approach to implementing Polycom solutions.
- Excellence in Integration spotlights partners that successfully integrated Polycom solutions with a UC platform from a strategic alliance partner.
- Excellence in Industry recognizes partners that were successful in pursuing business within a major vertical industry, such as education, healthcare, or government.
Award winners are part of the Polycom Partner Network, a global ecosystem of alliance and channel partners. The nearly 7,000 Polycom Partner Network members embrace and extend Polycom's open standards-based video collaboration solutions to deliver comprehensive UC&C solutions for the enterprise as well as applications to support a growing number of use cases across vertical industries such as healthcare, education, government, manufacturing, financial services, media and entertainment. As part of the Polycom Partner Network, technology providers, ISVs, solution advisors, integrators, service providers, and other companies can work with Polycom and each other to deliver tailored solutions for the multi-faceted needs of today’s organizations.
Polycom’s Global Partner Award winners include: - Distributor of the Year – ScanSource
- Solution Advisor of the Year – Nanjing Southern Telecom Co., Ltd.
- Service Provider of the Year – AT&T
- System Integrator of the Year – Dimension Data
- Excellence in Services Award – Whitlock
- Excellence in Innovation Award – Samsung SDS
- Excellence in Integration Award – Siemens Enterprise Communications
- Excellence in Industry Award – Solutionz
Polycom’s Theater Partner Award winners include: - Asia Pacific Distributor of the Year – Transition Systems Pte Ltd
- Solution Advisor of the Year – Nanjing Southern Telecom Co., Ltd.
- Service Provider of the Year – Airtel Business
- System Integrator of the Year – Beijing Transtrue Technology Inc.
- Excellence in Services Award – Digital China (China) Limited
- Excellence in Innovation Award – Samsung SDS
- Excellence in Integration Award – Hewlett-Packard New Zealand
- Excellence in Industry Award – Presto Infosolutions Pvt. Ltd.
- Central/Latin America Distributor of the Year – Nexsys
- Solution Advisor of the Year – Reto Industrial
- System Integrator of the Year – Intergrupo
- Excellence in Services Award – Digitalnet
- Excellence in Integration Award – Siemens Enterprise Communications
- Excellence in Industry Award – Pleimec
- Europe/Middle East/Africa Distributor of the Year – Imago
- Solution Advisor of the Year – IEC Group
- Service Provider of the Year – BT
- System Integrator of the Year- Dimension Data
- Excellence in Services Award – CROC
- Excellence in Innovation Award – Internet Videocommunications
- Excellence in Integration Award – Atlantis Telecom
- Excellence in Industry Award – ImageFlow
- North America Distributor of the Year – ScanSource
- Solution Advisor of the Year – SKC
- Service Provider of the Year – 8X8
- System Integrator of the Year – General Dynamics
- Excellence in Services Award – Whitlock
- Excellence in Innovation Award – NetXUSA
- Excellence in Integration Award – Extrateam
- Excellence in Industry Award – Solutionz
Polycom’s Country Partner Award winners include: - Asia Pacific Partner of the Year – China – Jiangsu Qunli Modern Science Technology Develop Co., Ltd
- Partner of the Year – Hong Kong/Taiwan – Ultra Active Technology Limited
- Partner of the Year – Japan – Princeton Technology, Ltd.
- Partner of the Year – Australia & New Zealand – Electroboard Solutions Pty Ltd
- Partner of the Year – India & South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation – AGC Networks Limited
- Partner of the Year – Southeast Asia – PT Westcon Group
- Partner of the Year – Korea – Softbank Commerce Korea
- Central/Latin America Partner of the Year – Brazil – Digitalnet Brasil
- Partner of the Year – Mexico – Limbergy
- Partner of the Year – Chile – Touchmedia
- Partner of the Year – Ecuador – Metrotek
- Partner of the Year – Argentina – El Cubo
- Partner of the Year – Peru – Coatel
- Partner of the Year – Caribbean – AVC
- Europe/Middle East/Africa Partner of the Year – UK & Ireland – AVM Impact
- Partner of the Year – France – SFR
- Partner of the Year – Germany – Ingram Micro Distribution GmbH
- Partner of the Year – Spain – Profinsa
- Partner of the Year – Italy – Ayno
- Partner of the Year – Benelux – Go Connect
- Partner of the Year – Nordics – SEC Datacom
- Partner of the Year – Russia – OCS Distribution
- Partner of the Year – Middle East North Africa – DataBox
- Partner of the Year – Israel, South Africa, Greece – Kathea
- Partner of the Year – Austria & Switzerland – Kilchenmann AG
- Partner of the Year – Eastern Europe – Damovo Polska
- North America Partner of the Year – United States – AVI-SPL
- Partner of the Year – Canada – Telus
- Partner of the Year – Federal – ProTel
- Partner DMR of the Year – CDW
Polycom can be found at: https://www.polycom.com
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Audinate Launches Dante Ultimo Solution  Audinate's newest member of the Danteä product family: Ultimo. Ultimo is a complete, fully-featured, ready-to-use Dante interface for networked audio products, integrated into a single 13×13-millimeter chip. By providing an integrated, cost-effective networked audio solution over a 100 Mbps Ethernet interface, Ultimo extends the benefits of Dante networking to a wide new range of audio devices. Dante is licensed by over 70 OEM manufacturers, and Dante networked devices are currently being designed into hundreds of AV OEM products. Audinate says Ultimo delivers a low-cost, small-footprint solution without sacrificing audio quality. As with Audinate’s other networked products, Ultimo uses high-quality, low-jitter clocks with ±1μs time alignment between networked devices. Ultimo does not require specialized switches and works with existing network infrastructure. Ultimo includes Dante features such as automatic device discovery, plug-and-play networking, network-based firmware updates and customization of device names and channel labels. Applications targeted for Ultimo include powered speakers, microphones, speakerphones, amplifiers, paging stations, personal monitoring systems, AV wall plates, recording interfaces, analog/digital break-in/break out and musical instruments.
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Stewart Audio Licenses Dante Technology  Stewart Audio has entered into a technology licensing agreement with Audinate (the inventors of Dante), and plan to integrate Dante Ultimo solution in its line of subcompact and half-rack DSP powered amplifiers in Q2 of this year. Sean O’Malley, president of Stewart Audio said, “We are excited to be working with Audinate as we continue to reposition Stewart Audio as a network centric manufacture of power amplifiers and network accessories. As the AV ecosystem continues to evolve towards the network, our customers require end point products which operate with the increasing popular Dante protocol from Audinate.” Stewart Audio’s product line of Dante enabled amplifiers will span 1-4 channel counts, both low impedance and 70V/100V and up to 320 watts per channel. Package sizes will consist of subcompact to half rack and are convection cooled.
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Lighthouse Adds Flexible X3 LED Screen to Indoor Line  Lighthouse Technologies has launched what it is calling the X3, claiming a 3.9-mm pixel pitch, and therefore Lighthouse’s highest resolution LED screen to date. It's aimed at indoor rental and staging market as well as digital signage. Developed in conjunction with XL Video, X3 combines Lighthouse’s processing and a mechanical design developed by XL Video, resulting in a unique curable and flexible joint structure that allows the screen to be shaped in different ways to become concave or convex both horizontally and vertically, so you can wrap it, bend it and twist it. The use of 3 in 1 Surface Mounted Device (SMD) LEDs allows X3 to deliver 140-degree horizontal and vertical viewing angles. 16-bit processing and Lighthouse’s M4 color processing technology deliver what it says is better color, as well as a brightness of 2,000 nits. At less than 10 kilograms per panel, and with a panel size of 500×500 millimeters, the X3 is lightweight and easy to transport. Servicing is also quick and simple, with just the loosening of two clips to open the back cover.
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Pressure Detection for Multi-Touch Displays  FlatFrog’s Planar Scatter Detection technology (PSD) is the first multi-touch display technology to offer pressure detection. PSD is an advanced optical in-glass multi-touch technology where light is injected inside the top glass pane and scatters wherever the top surface is touched. This scattering effect is detected, and positions of several simultaneous touches are determined. Now not only can PSD detect pressure, but it can also detect 1,000 levels of pressure for 40 individual touches.
FlatFrog’s first own product, the 32” FlatFrog Multitouch 3200, was launched last year and fully supports pressure detection. Previously purchased units may need an upgrade to the latest firmware, available at no extra cost through FlatFrog.
Here are all the details: https://www.flatfrog.com/news/47
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You're About to See Gorilla Glass Screens!
By Gary Kayye
rAVe Founder  In a first ever, Christie has integrated Corning's Gorilla Glass into a forthcoming 55" LCD display. Hidden above the show floor in a private suite, Christie took me to see a prototype of a new 55" LCD where the company has bonded Gorilla Glass onto the surface of a screen that has less than a 6mm bezel. This not only creates a stunning image that appears to "pop" off the screen more than on a traditional screen rear-screen surface, but it can even accommodate a touch screen that has a completely rigid surface – like when you touch an iPhone. So, there's no image warping, green-haze or surfaces that "mash" when you touch them. This will debut first on a Christie product, but I think the industry will be impressed, with others following and integrating Gorilla Glass on to all sorts of video wall screen surfaces. The representative from Corning who was there in the suite explained to me that the company's on Gorilla Glass version 3 and the next generation will be 5-7 times more rigid and strong than version 2 (the version currently on the iPhone, for example). I am guessing we'll see this by InfoComm and it'll draw lots of crowds and positive comments by then. Here's the preview video:
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DynaScan Announces Three New High Brightness Professional Display Models  DynaScan Technology unveiled three 1920×1080 LCDs displays at Integrated Systems Europe this week – all with DVI daisy-chain ports and RS232 control. The DS55LX3 is a 55-inch, 1500-nit LCD with local dimming backlight. It features a bezel of just 5.3-millimeters and screen-to-screen and built-in video daisy chaining so a single 1080p source can be used on video walls up to 6×6 in size without the need for any additional external video wall controller. The DS72LT6 is a 72-inch LCD with a brightness spec of 5,000 nit aimed at outdoor apps such as outdoor enclosures and storefront windows. This display has a 30-millimeter bezel and includes a direct LED backlight with local dimming. DynaScan also introduced a 2,500-nit version, the DS72LT4, featuring a fanless thermal management system, with all other features the same.
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Christie Introduces Phoenix, Control for Control Rooms  Christie wants to re-define content management for the control room with the Christie Phoenix, an open content management system designed specifically for fast-paced command and control centers with highly mobile and dispersed work forces (such as public utilities, government, security and surveillance, transportation and telecommunications).
A network streaming solution at its core, Christie Phoenix allows users to seamlessly access and control information, in virtually any location, for collaboration, synthesizing of information and decision-making in critical environments.
Based on a single streaming appliance, the Christie Phoenix node, and a PC user software environment, Christie Phoenix systems are designed to be simple and cost effective to configure, deploy and manage, simultaneously, all from one box.
Christie Phoenix nodes can be combined to create synchronized display walls of virtually any size, or can be used as a desktop processor to augment a single user’s operating environment. PC software offers access and control of Christie Phoenix streams anywhere a user can connect to a network. As a network streaming device, Christie Phoenix nodes are compatible with the majority of existing network cameras and surveillance systems, as well as a number of third-party video encoders.
The Christie Phoenix node is a 19” rack mount unit that comes standard with DVI, KVM and audio input and output connectors (which can all be used simultaneously). A Christie Phoenix node can encode up to two and decode up to 12 high definition signals. Multiple Christie Phoenix nodes can be combined and synchronized to create a display wall of up to 128 outputs.
Inputs, each up to 1920×1080 resolution, are encoded and placed on the network – while simultaneously allowing keyboard and mouse (KVM) control of those inputs over the network. Where access to output connectors is not possible, Christie Phoenix offers software-only VNC and RDP implementations for direct access to encode, stream, control and display content.
The desktop software included with Christie Phoenix features a drag-and-drop interface that can manage content on multiple display walls simultaneously. It can also display Christie Phoenix content locally on a user’s desktop while sharing content with other Christie Phoenix users across the network, all of whom can view and control the content.
Phoenix features include:
- A system consisting of one or many hardware nodes and PC software that operates on a standard Ethernet network to encode, decode and display simultaneously, all from the same box
- Based on secure, industry-standard H.264 media encoding and decoding
- Easy to install and configure and can be scaled up or down at anytime
- Up to 2560×1600 resolution per output
- Support for 2560×1600 (overlay mode using output connectors)
- From 640×480 to 1920×1080 encoded to H.264
Here are all the specs: https://www.christiedigital.com/en-us/video-walls/video-wall-solutions/video-wall-controllers/pages/christie-phoenix-network-streaming-platform-video-processor.aspx
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ZeeVee Releases HDbridge 2000 Series Encoders/Modulators  ZeeVee just launched four new HDbridge 2000 Series encoders/modulators that broadcast up to four HD (1080p/i or 720p) channels. Housed in a single 1RU enclosure, the HDb2620 and HDb2640 offer two and four 1080p/i channels, respectively, while the HDb2520 and HDb2540 provide two and four 720p channels. For rapid deployment, all channels can be set at once. Leveraging high-channel density, the new HDbridge 2000 Series encoders/modulators are designed for local broadcasting of HD channels in sports bars, educational and corporate campuses, healthcare facilities, hotels, stadiums and houses of worship. The HDb2620/40 and HDb2520/40 join the previously released HDb2380 8-channel digital SD (480i) modulator/encoder, which is now shipping. For improving picture quality while adding management capabilities, the HDb2380 can upgrade an entire analog headend to digital channels at a low cost, comparable to analog modulation.
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Quantum Data Intros 4K Test Generator  The AVPro QD804A is the industry's first dedicated 4K test generator. The 804A is designed for both in-lab and in-field applications, supporting testing of HDMI 4Kx2K resolutions up to pixel rates of 297MHz. Featuring four HDMI outputs all active simultaneously for testing HDTVs with multiple HDMI inputs, the QD804A eliminates the need for splitters and it can output component analog and composite analog video as well as HDMI through the same port. Switching between video timings and images is fast as the 804A is equipped with all the standard video timings and test patterns including support for 3D necessary for testing HDTVs, including tests for HDMI protocols such as HDCP, EDID and CEC. The 804A tests compressed and uncompressed HDMI audio formats using a variety of audio test signals. An HDTV's analog audio inputs can also be tested using the 804's programmable analog audio outputs.
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Extron Introduces New DMS Series Modular Frames and Fiber Matrix Boards  Extron announced the addition of the DMS 2000 and DMS 3200 Frames and DMS Fiber Matrix Boards to the DMS Series of Modular DVI Matrix Switchers. The DMS Series combine the simplicity and reliability of a fixed I/O matrix switcher with the convenience and flexibility of a modular solution. The compact DMS 2000 and DMS 3200 are designed to fit in a wide range of installations. The DMS 2000 is available in I/O configurations of 4×4 up to 20×20 in a 3U enclosure, and the DMS 3200 is available in I/O configurations of 4×4 up to 32×32 in a 5U enclosure. For design flexibility, the DMS Fiber Matrix Boards support transmitted distances up to 300 meters (984 feet) on one multimode fiber. Available in 4×4 I/O, four-input, and four-output configurations, the fiber optic boards can be mixed-and-matched with available DMS DVI Matrix Boards. DMS Series Frames are available in sizes to fit I/O combinations from 4×4 to 36×36. The DMS 2000 and DMS 3200 frames are designed for applications requiring a compact enclosure size with a single, fixed power supply. For mission critical, 24/7 applications that require dual AC power inputs and hot-swappable power supplies, the DMS 1600 and DMS 3600 frames support I/O configurations up to 16×16 or 36×36, respectively. All four DMS frames accept any combination of the available DMS DVI and Fiber Matrix Boards. The DMS Fiber Matrix Boards are compatible with the new Extron DFX 100 DVI extenders. The boards utilize standard LC connectors, which provide reliable physical connectivity and precise fiber core alignment, and allow the use of low-cost, widely available pre-terminated cables.
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New AMX Enova DGX 8 Designed for Small Systems  AMX's new Enova DGX 8 Digital Media Switcher (AVS-ENOVADGX8-ENC), like its older Enova siblings (the DGX 16 and DGX 32), includes all of the features and capabilities of the larger switchers, including an integrated NetLinx Controller, redundant power supplies and the ability to be populated with Enova DGX video input and output boards. The Enova DGX 8 is basically a modular media switcher with a built-in controller. It distributes analog and digital audio and video including HDMI/HDCP, control and Ethernet — and is an 8×8 matrix. An integrated NetLinx Controller and embedded Ethernet switch enables management of the entire solution, including source equipment and display devices, all from a single point of control.
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Christie Ships Interactivity Kit  Christie has started shipping its Interactivity Kit, powered by Baanto ShadowSense. The Christie Interactivity Kit is designed for adding multi-touch interactivity to any digital display. Designed in pieces that fit around Christie MicroTiles, the Christie Interactivity Kit can be configured into 84 different sizes. The kit can accommodate practically any large format display up to 21.4 feet wide and 6 feet high, or a Christie MicroTiles array measuring up to 16 units wide by 6 units tall. The field-installable kits simply attach around the display wall perimeter and plug into a computer USB port without need for drivers. Windows 7 automatically recognizes the Christie Interactivity Kit as a multi-touch device and no manual calibration of sensors or cameras is required. Using Baanto ShadowSense technology, Christie's Interactivity Kit supports up to 18 touches on a large-format display. Benefits of Christie Interactivity Kit: - True multi-touch performance with excellent accuracy, resolution and response rates for large-format applications
- Up to 18 touches on a 16 by 6 array (21.4 feet wide by 6 feet high)
- Ease of setup with USB connection and no drivers required
- No manual calibration of sensors or cameras
- Recognized by Windows 7 natively as a multi-touch device
- Seamless integration with Christie MicroTiles and Christie JumpStart
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Extron Announces Upgrade to Its H.264 Streaming Media Encoder  Extron announced an upgrade to its SME 100 encoder, enabling the support of additional network and streaming protocols. The SME 100 now supports push streaming in unicast or multicast applications applying native RTP or MPEG-2 Transport Streams. Session Announcement Protocol and Session Description Protocol are applied to manage push streaming sessions. These new network and streaming protocols make the SME 100 compatible with a greater variety of third party decoding devices and streaming configurations. Other new capabilities include HTTP tunneling and closed captioning support for the EIA-608B standard. These new features are included in all SME 100 units that are shipping. It's also available firmware upgrade is available as a free download for current users at https://www.extron.com.
The SME 100 is available in two models, the SME 100 SD, which streams at resolutions from 166×120 up to 720×576, and the SME 100 HD, which streams at resolutions from 166×120 up to HDTV 1080p/30. Both models accept standard definition video and high definition video signals, including 1080p and computer-video signals up to 1920×1200 plus audio. Extron has developed the SME 100 feature set specifically to support the broad source, control, and processing capabilities that AV applications require.
Here are all the details: https://www.extron.com/company/article.aspx?id=sme100ad&s=sl05
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Hitachi Unveils Broad Range Of Installation LCD Projectors  Hitachi Digital Media launches six new LCD projectors for installation environments. The models, say the maker, feature a contemporary design and deliver substantial improvements in performance, flexible installation, connectivity and most importantly, total cost of ownership.
To deal with the high demands of installation environments Hitachi has also launched a family of optional lenses to accompany these new installation models. The lenses cover a wide range of projection distances and lens shifts, enabling them to adapt to the available space.
The intuitive motorized vertical and horizontal lens shift mechanism provides fast and efficient installation; users can easily adjust images ± 50 percent horizontally and up to 60 percent vertically. This functionality is designed for theaters and conference suites that require continuous changes to projection set-ups. When stacked, users can achieve double brightness levels. This unique set up also acts as a fail-safe operation mode; if one projector fails the other will continue to operate unaffected.
The 6,000 ANSI Lumen color light output of the CP-X8160 means that users have great scope to project large but bright images in all environments. There are six models with an assortment of resolutions and brightness levels. The CP-X8150 and CP-X8160 offer XGA resolution, while the CP-WX8240 and the CP-WX8255 provide WXGA wide screen format. The CP-WU8440 and CP-WU8450 deliver WUXGA resolution.
There is also the ability to project the same image on up to 12 projectors simultaneously using the multi-projector facility. In addition the Crestron RoomView software provides a custom configurable interface to monitor, manage and control every device in every room remotely from any computer.
The new models feature a 5,000-hour lamp life and a hybrid filter that operates for up to 15,000 hours under normal operating conditions.
The CP-X8160 and the CP-WX8255 offer a 360-degree vertical tilt angle, enabling users to project downwards onto a floor or upwards onto a ceiling. Both the CP-X8160 and CP-WX8255 also contain a superior three-layer hybrid filter lasting up to a remarkable 20,000 hours. These models also cater for an increased environmental operating temperature range of 0 ~ 45C. All models are now able to operate at 10,000 feet or 3048 meters.
While not intended for actual medical diagnosis applications, the medical industry-standard DICOM simulation mode is available on all models for the accurate reproduction of greyscale levels. It is a feature for viewing medical images such as X-rays in training and educational environments.
Here are all the specs: https://www.hitachidigitalmedia.com/pressRelease.do?actionName=loadPressText&id=507&language=dk&country=DK#
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Sony Intros World's First 4,000-Lumen, WUXGA Projector Using 3LCD Laser Technology  At ISE last month, Sony brought out its next generation WUXGA installation projector with Laser Light Source Technology. It's a 4,000-lumen, WUXGA (1920×1200) projector with 3LCD laser technology, which Sony says is the brightest projector of its kind and a first for the industry.
This new addition to Sony’s installation projector line-up follows the design of the VPL-FH31 and VPL-FH36 models. The chassis is designed for optimum flexibility with a clean white finish designed to blend in with its environment.
The Laser Light Source Projector offers low TCO via the newly-developed BrightEra 3LCD technology, which gives the projector up to 20,000 hours maintenance-free, depending on the projector’s environment and setup conditions.
As the projector incorporates lasers, rather than LEDs, to achieve optimum brightness, the Laser Light Source Projector claims substantially brighter images, better contrast ratios and color stability. The white light, like traditional UHP light sources, is directed into the 3LCD engine to deliver picture quality.
The projector also features a picture muting mode that allows the user to quickly start the presentation once the mute mode has been turned off. The Laser Light Source Projector also delivers installation flexibility as it is tilt-free with an efficient portrait mode to ensure the projector appeals to both corporate and education markets.
The Laser Light Source Projector will be available in the summer of 2013. Here are the specs: https://www.sony.co.uk/pro/hub/home
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Epson Adds Two Projectors Aimed at ED Market  Epson announced two new classroom projector solutions – the BrightLink 436Wi, a portable short-throw interactive projector, and the PowerLite 935W, a 3,700-lumen projector aimed at large classrooms: BrightLink 436Wi ($1,250): The BrightLink 436Wi is the first interactive, short-throw Epson projector that can be moved from room to room. Using a native WXGA (1280×800) resolution 3LCD system and offering VGA and HDMI ports and dual pen support, the BrightLink can project onto any existing whiteboard, wall or other smooth, light-colored hard surface. The 2,000-lumen 436Wi also has built-in annotation technology that allows teachers and students to virtually write on a projected image from a variety of sources including a PC, tablets, document cameras, Blu-ray players, VCRs and more. PowerLite 935W ($1,199): Designed for large classrooms and naturally bright rooms, the PowerLite 935W delivers widescreen, ultra-bright images with WXGA (1280×800) resolution and 3,700 lumens, making it suitable for nearly any lighting condition. It offers a 16-watt speaker and microphone input for voice amplification to the entire classroom and includes HDMI and RJ-45 for presenting content over the network, broadcasting important messages and monitoring and controlling a networked projector remotely.
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New BenQ Interactive Projectors Bring Handheld Tablet Connectivity  BenQ just announced the latest additions to its PointDraw line of short-throw projectors: the MW821ST and MX822ST. Supporting BenQ's third-generation PointDraw interactive projection technology, the projectors facilitate a more immersive experience in classrooms and boardrooms by enabling integration of iPad and Android tablets and offer greater interaction with new PointDraw Pen 3.0.
BenQ's third-generation PointDraw technology includes the new PointDraw Pen 3.0 to create more engaging presentations. Now with improved pointer accuracy and decreased lag, the optional PointDraw pen enables teachers and presenters to write on any projection surface whenever enhanced interactivity is required. The QDraw3 app is available for download from the Apple App Store or the Google Play Store and can be used via wireless connection with iPad and Android devices. The interactive software is also compatible with Mac and Linux operating systems in addition to offering tile-friendly Windows 8 compatibility, and can be downloaded from thebenq.us website. A license key is included in the PointDraw pen package, which is available for purchase separately.
Both the MW821ST and MX822ST projectors are native WXGA (1280×800) and XGA (1024×768), respectively, and claim a contrast ratio of 13,000:1 and a a brightness spec of 3,000 ANSI lumens. The MW821ST is available now and lists at $1,399, while the MX822ST will be available in March and will list for $2,599.
Both are here: https://www.benq.us
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Epson Adopts HDBaseT for All Future ProAV Projectors  Epson has released its new commercial projectors that incorporate the HDBaseT technology. Epson is the latest manufacturer to join the HDBaseT Alliance, a consortium of companies that works to promote and standardize HDBaseT technology (and is the Cat5 distribution system that's being used by companies like Extron, Crestron, AMX, Kramer, etc). Empowered by the Valens Semiconductor HDBaseT chipset, HDBaseT enables whole-home and commercial distribution of uncompressed HD multimedia content over a single CAT5e/6 cable. So far, HDBaseT has been added to two of Epson's ProAV projectors: the EB-G6900WU, a 6,000-lumen, WUXGA (1920×1200) resolution LCD and the EB-G6800, an XGA resolution LCD that claims 7,000 lumens.
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BOXLIGHT Intros Wireless Projectors  BOXLIGHT is introducing a new wireless, non-interactive projector line, the Boston Series, which is an upgrade to the company's Seattle Series.
The Boston Series features PC-less presentations through the addition of a USB input, allowing for 1.5G of internal storage and the display of Office docs, video, audio and image files.
With EZ Wi-Fi LAN software, (a free download) you can use a USB to mini-USB cable, or the LAN connection of the projector and your network, to display content from your computer via streaming it from the network.
The EZ Display App enables users to send images, see web pages or view the camera live from mobile devices, and includes annotation features for real-time interaction. With an optional Wi-Fi USB display adapter (dongle), connectivity increases to include projection of up to four devices at one time, including a PC or Mac. The initial release includes three versions:
- Boston WX27NST – a 2,700 lumen, WXGA, short throw, wireless projector
- Boston X28NST – a 2,800 lumen, XGA, short throw, wireless projector
- Boston X30N – a 3,000 lumen, XGA, standard throw, wireless projector
The Boston Series ships standard with a side-changing lamp and filter for easy access and a contrast ratio to 3,000:1. Multiple anti-theft features come standard. The projector has seven different display modes, logo capture and image freeze, along with an on-board 10 watt speaker for bringing quality audio to presentations. In addition, the Boston qualifies for BOXLIGHT’s “Lamps for Life” lamp warranty program and is TAA compliant.
Here are the specs: https://www.boxlight.com/Products/Classroom
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Epson Intros 7K Lumen Projectors with Single Lamp  Epson today announced the new PowerLite Pro G-series projectors that include features such as edge blending, 360-degree installation, six optional lenses and several connectivity options. Ranging from 4,500 to 7,000 lumens of "color brightness" (non-ANSI), the projectors are aimed at both the install market and rental and staging.
There are seven models in the Pro G-Series:
- PowerLite Pro G6050W specified at 5,500 lumens, WXGA resolution at $3,799
- PowerLite Pro G6150 specified at 6,500, XGA resolution at $3,599
- PowerLite Pro G6450WU specified at 4,500, WUXGA resolution at $3,999
- PowerLite Pro G6550WU specified at 5,200, WUXGA resolution at $4,999
- PowerLite Pro G6750WU specified at 6,000, WUXGA resolution at $5,999
- PowerLite Pro G6800 specified at 7,000, XGA resolution at $4,799
- PowerLite Pro G6900WU specified at 6000, WUXGA resolution at $6,499
Inputs include HDBaseT, VGA and HDMI and all the specs are here: https://www.epson.com/cgi-bin/Store/jsp/Landing/pro-g-series.do?ref=van_pro-g-series
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Digital Signage Expo & DPAA Present Full Day 4th Annual Digital Place-Based Advertising Summit  Digital Signage Expo (DSE) announced today that the Digital Place-Based Advertising Association (DPAA) will partner in and assist in programming its annual Advertising Summit to be held in Las Vegas on Tues., Feb. 26. The all-new comprehensive full day DPb Advertising Summit will address the current size of the market, its projected growth, the wealth of research and audience metrics available, identify the challenges inherent in planning/buying and designing creative applications for the medium, and how to overcome those obstacles. DSE’s 4th annual DPB Advertising Summit will feature: - A Keynote panel headed by Patti Foley, director, marketing communications & merchandising, Jack in the Box, and Jill Nickerson, VP, director of DOOH, Horizon Media
- An overview of industry economics, trends and the latest results of the 6th Annual Digital Out-of-Home Media Forecast, presented by PQ Media’s Patrick Quinn
- “Advances in Digital Place-based Metrics & Currency,” presented by Diane Williams, senior media research analyst, Arbitron
- Keynote Lunch: “Brands Brains & Buying – Creating Chatter that Matters,” presented by David Kepron, owner, Retail (r)Evolution, LLC
- “SoLoMo Meets Digital Place-based: New Tools for Consumer Engagement,” moderated by Jeremy Lockhorn, vice president, Emerging Media Razorfish
- “Digital Place-based Marketplace Demand & Direction,” a discussion with Rick Robinson, MacDonald Media, Jack Sullivan, Starcom World Wide, Dave Matera, OOH Pitch, Daniel Wilkins, N2, and Rocky Gunderson, SierraRock
- “Creative Campaigns” an overview of 2012’s outstanding work for Digital Place-based creative
Susan Danaher, president of the DPAA who will be moderating the event said, “This Summit provides a unique educational opportunity for agencies and advertisers to meet, exchange ideas, see the newest developments in planning and buying digital place-based networks to create better efficiencies and heighten consumer engagement.”
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BEHRINGER Appoints STARIN as Exclusive U.S. Distributor  MUSIC Group, the corporate parent of pro audio brand BEHRINGER has announced the immediate appointment of Indiana-based Starin as its exclusive Fulfiller for all 50 US States and protectorates. Starin had previously represented BEHRINGER in selected territories while the rest of the country was served by Shoreview Distribution. The appointment is effective immediately and the company reports that Starin has sufficient quantities of product on hand to fill all orders across the country.
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SI Expands Commercial Division, Hires Josh Petru  Screen Innovations (SI), a manufacturer of projection screens and associated technologies, recently appointed Josh Petru to the newly formed position of commercial technical sales representative. A strategic and timely hire, Petru fills a critical role that will support SI’s continued expansion into the commercial market and associated verticals.
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DPI Adds Market Managers in Central and Midwestern Regions  Digital Projection International (DPI) announced last month the appointments of two new regional market managers in the U.S. Brian Blumhardt has been appointed DPI’s Central market development manager, while Tom Wilmers assumes market development manager responsibilities over the Midwest region. Both Blumhardt and Wilmers are already actively managing DPI's sales through the company’s extensive Commercial A/V, Home Cinema and Staging channels in their respective regions.
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MUSIC Group Appoints Nigel Beaumont as Head of Professional Division  The MUSIC Group today announced the appointment of Nigel Beaumont as head of its new Professional Division, overseeing all aspects of the company’s MIDAS, KLARK TEKNIK and TURBOSOUND brands worldwide. Beaumont retains his role as senior vice president for operations that he has held since joining the MUSIC Group in 2011. The appointment is effective March 1, 2013.
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ClearOne Taps David Traeger as Vice President, Professional Audio Visual Sales  ClearOne has announced the promotion of David Traeger to vice president, professional audio visual sales throughout North America and Latin America.
Traeger will report to Zee Hakimoglu, ClearOne’s chairman and CEO and will be responsible for developing and growing sales of ClearOne’s full line of products, including the COLLABORATE suite of software-based video conferencing solutions, in the ProAV channel.
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Lencore Expands Sales Network with New Representative in Upstate New York  Lencore, a Long Island manufacturer of commercial sound masking, paging, audio and mass notification systems, has announced the addition of Greg Brower to the Lencore team of representatives. Bower will represent Lencore to architects, designers, furniture dealers, and end users in the upstate New York market. Along with his existing package of acoustical and architectural products, Greg will focus his efforts on growing Lencore's line of sound masking, paging, audio and mass notification systems.
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USAV Announces 2013 Leadership Conference  USAV, an association of leading professional audio-visual (ProAV) integrators, announced that in 2013 it will host the USAV Leadership Conference (ULC) in conjunction with its Signature Sponsor, Chief. The conference will be held April 28-30 in Dallas, Texas and will focus on fostering professional growth in functional-level leadership within USAV Integrator organizations.
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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). Don't like us, then go away — unsubscribe! Just use the link below. To send me feedback, don't reply to this newsletter. Instead, write directly to me at [email protected] or for editorial ideas, Editor-in-Chief Sara Abrons at [email protected] 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 To read more about my background, our team and what we do, go to https://www.ravepubs.com Back to Top
Copyright 2013 – rAVe [Publications] – All rights reserved – All rights reserved. For reprint policies, contact rAVe [Publications], 210 Old Barn Ln. – Chapel Hill, NC 27517 – (919) 969-7501. Email: [email protected]
rAVe contains the opinions of the author only and does not necessarily reflect the opinions of other persons or companies or its sponsors.
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