Volume 6, Issue 19 — October 17, 2008

Of course, there were all the display manufacturers toting their flat-panel LCDs and plasmas as the ultimate digital signage display with sizes ranging from 32” to 104”.

There were all sorts of network players. Little companies and big companies alike — heck even AMX has a digital signage division.

And, the software companies promoting everything from creative, graphical packages to content pushing and fetching devices making digital signage networks supposedly as simple as booting (and re-booting, and re-booting) a Windows' based-PC.

But, I do NOT think it's the next big thing.

Actually, I think it is THE THING right now in AV.

That's right, THE THING.

I am shocked (and concerned, to be totally frank about it) about the lack of support and infrastructure for the Digital Signage market in the ProAV market – from BOTH sides of the aisle.

Ironically, we are the market that first used the term way back in 2001 before any other market in the world used it — with NEC leading the way. Just a few years later, they even had a so-called digital signage media player (some are still in airports all over the world today).

Yet, hardly any — I am told less than 10% – were actually installed by ProAV contractors. And, where in the heck did Scala/Broadsign et al come from? Here are some the biggest players in the digital signage market in the world and they aren't even recognized by most AV integrators — and are they really recognizing AV yet? A quick, unofficial, straw poll taken on the show floor showed that less than 15% of the attendees strolling the InfoComm floor even knew what Scala actually does. Worse, less than 20% of those actually standing in the digital signage pavilion on the show floor knew whom Scala was.

I blame myself, mostly.

That's right. It's my fault. In searching through years (over 10 now) of writings with Sound and Communications as well as rAVe, I realized that I have only mentioned them three times (in 10 years!). And once was this year!

But, some of the blame also lies with companies like Scala too. Up until this year's InfoComm, they only paid lip-service to AV and never really partnered with AV — heck, they didn't even exhibit at InfoComm until this year's show!

I think the digital signage success has snuck up on us all. To be perfectly honest, originally (years ago) I saw the digital signage market as nothing but a ploy to sell more displays — something cooked up by the NEC folks to sell airports on the CRT to LCD/Plasma convergence. But, they actually had a vision for where the market was going way back then — something that I sorely missed.

But, I've matured. Have you?

Apparently, we're both missing the boat and it's already set sail to IT World. Scala, C-Nario, DT Research, Broadsign and Dynasign all tell me that they still aren't seeing the “wave” of AV integrators that they thought (and should) see following InfoComm. In fact, most of them said that less than 10% of their business is coming from the AV channel. But, it's not totally our fault — where the heck have they been? Where's the support for the AV integrator? Have any of the above companies come to visit you yet?

So, where's all the business going? You guessed it: IT. In fact, you know all those digital signage systems you see going up at your local universities, airports and shopping malls? You know how they got there? Well, according to the leading manufacturers of digital signage content delivery systems, it's the IT channel that's jumped on the digital signage bandwagon. Sure, some of the displays are coming from AV integrators as SOME of the manufacturers have exclusive distribution agreements that prevent them from selling to the IT channel, but not most. And, how long do we think those will last?

InfoComm has done a marvelous job integrating digital signage into their show and educational curriculum — the manufacturers spent millions of dollars on their presence at InfoComm and we even added a major digital signage player to the InfoComm Manufacturer's Forum this year. So, they're doing everything they can to court us AV geeks.

So, let's dance.

Reprinted with permission from Sound & Communications. Founded in 1955, Sound & Communications is the premiere magazine for AV systems integrators, contractors and consultants. To subscribe or read sample articles, go to http://www.soundandcommunications.com.

InfoComm announced the organization named André LeJeune, CTS, to a new Rental & Staging Staff Instructor position. LeJeune has more than 30 years of staging and presentation experience, specializing in staging for national corporations. He has produced projects that incorporate the latest meeting techniques and technologies, including large-scale sound, lighting and video presentation systems. Most recently LeJeune was Senior Director of Training at MVP International. He is also a former InfoComm Instructor of the Year, has chaired InfoComm's Professional Education and Training Committee (PETC), authors training texts, and teaches industry seminars.

The mission: LeJeune will lead the efforts to train member companies be better and be more profitable.

I have known Andre for 20 years. Yes, he is older than me and even wiser. This is the best industry-based hire for InfoComm since they hired Duffy Wilbert and Terry Friesenborg.  Andre is a training god.  His style and knowledge make him, literally, one of the best instructors I have ever seen.  He’s in an exclusive class along with Luke Rawls, Mike Weems, Scott Sharer and Fred Dixon.

For more information, go to http://www.infocomm.org/cps/rde/xchg/infocomm/hs.xsl/avindustry_6653.htm

InfoComm Makes BIG Investment in Connecting AV Pros With Building Pros

InfoComm launched a $1.5 million advertising and public relations campaign designed to educate architects and building professionals about the value of contracting AV companies, especially Certified Technology Specialists. To kick off the program, InfoComm developed a new website with an online directory. We'll keep you informed as ads are produced.

For more information, go to http://www.ctsforav.com/

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InfoComm Opens European Headquarters in UK

InfoComm announced the organization opened European headquarters in the United Kingdom and made a number of personnel appointments.

Christopher Lavelle, CTS, has been named UK Regional Manager. Lavelle studied sound engineering, computer networking and web development in South Africa. He most recently worked for PSAV, serving as Director of Event Technology for the Maybourne Hotel Group. He started his career at PSAV Presentation Services London as an Event Technology Specialist at the Sheraton Park Lane Hotel and also served as Event Technology Operations Manager at Claridge's Hotel.

Sarah Carless has been named European Programme Coordinator. She comes from an extensive computer data networking background, working with leading manufacturers such as 3Com & Siemens Network Systems Ltd. Caress spent the past 5 years working for an interactive telephony company as a production executive, developing and implementing interactive telephony products. She gained a broad knowledge in sound assisting her father, an Emmy award winner and Bafta nominated Location Sound Recordist.

In addition, Godwin Demicoli, CTS has been promoted to Regional Director, Europe. Demicoli has been a European Representative with InfoComm since 2004. He is responsible for overseeing member activity throughout Europe. He will continue to work from an office in Germany.

InfoComm International's European Headquarters is located at 2 Victoria Square, Victoria Street, St Albans, Herts, AL1 3TF United Kingdom. The telephone number is +44 (0)1727 884606.

InfoComm will continue to maintain regional offices serving Asia, Australia, and Latin America. The international headquarters is located in the United States, in Fairfax, Virginia.

For more information, go to http://www.infocomm.org

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Major Studios Band Together for Digital Cinema Deployment

In what is a major boost for digital cinema adoption, Digital Cinema Implementation Partners announced an agreement with five studios for the deployment of digital projection systems to nearly 20,000 movie theater screens across America. The studios involved are Twentieth Century Fox, Walt Disney Motion Pictures, Paramount Pictures, Universal Studios and Lionsgate Films. Participating theater companies are the AMC, Cinemark and Regal theatre chains. This paves the way for digital reproduction and distribution, as well as for 3D and other non-traditional programming.

DCIP was formed in February 2007 as a joint venture owned equally by AMC Entertainment Inc., Cinemark Holdings, Inc. and Regal Entertainment Group. Its mission is financing, procuring and deploying digital projection systems to movie theatre screens across the United States and Canada.

DCIP says more announcements of this type will be forthcoming, and they are targeting all the major studios and independent distribution companies. The digital projection systems deployed by DCIP will comply with the technology and security specifications developed by the Digital Cinema Initiatives studio consortium.

For more information, go to http://www.dcipllc.com/

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D&M Holding Forms Sales and Marketing Group to Target Pro Market With Audio Products

D&M Holdings announced the formation of a new operational group, the Business and Professional Group, which will handle sales and marketing for the pro market for its audio brands. Those brands include Allen & Heath, Calrec Audio, Denon DJ, Denon Professional, and Marantz Professional. The group is responsible for sales and marketing in the Americas.

D&M says the goal is to bring a more regional focus to the Americas, for closer contact with customers, dealers and distributors. D&M's product range includes audio for commercial applications, and the acquisitions of Calrec Audio and Allen & Heath also allowed D&M to provide professional products to broadcast and installed live sound.

For more information, go to http://www.dm-holdings.com

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New Projector and Flat Panel Mounts Line From Da-Lite

Da-Lite announced a new line of universal mounts for projectors and flat-panel displays. Da-Lite says the new brand, called Advance, is designed with new features, a new look and provides a complete line of installer-friendly mount kits.

Da-Lite also says these are designed for the rigors of commercial applications and they are manufactured in the U.S. using high quality steel, and all durable powdered coated finishes in various colors.

The universal design and good pricing should allow dealers to keep some on hand for last-minute mount needs, says the company.

For more information, go to http://www.dalite.com/whats_hot/index.php?wID=179

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BidMagic Shows Mobile Connect at CEDIA

BidMagic showed at CEDIA a new service for project managers, installation crews and service techs. Mobile Connect uses cell phones and laptops to connect field techs to their calendars, tasks, projects and contacts. Field techs using even basic cell phones can receive assignments and alerts for work orders, installation, service appointments and more. BidMagic says the system provides reliable up to the minute management and communication to field techs, and does not require software since it's a web-based solution.

Preliminary pricing is $25 per month for Mobile Connect users and $499 for the Project Calendar system. Subscription is required. Training information and email support are included. Live support plans are also available.

For more information, go to http://www.bidmagic.com/

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Epson Introduces Three Sub-$800 Entry-Level Projectors

Epson has three new 3LCD 3-chip multimedia projectors designed both for small business and home theaters. These are sold at major retailers.

The Epson EX70 projector (estimated street price: $799) is specified at WXGA resolution with 16:10 aspect ratio, 2000 lumens and 2000:1 contrast ratio. The EX50 ($649) is specified at XGA resolution and the EX30 ($549) at SVGA resolution. These two models are also specified at 2200 lumens and 2000:1 contrast ratio.

All the projectors have USB Plug n' Play, direct power on/off from a wall switch, Epson E-TORL energy efficiency, instant on/off, automatic keystone correction and AV mute slide.

For more information, go to http://www.epson.com/cgi-bin/Store/ProductCategory.jsp?BV_UseBVCookie=yes&oid=-13921

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Sony Demonstrates Single-Projector 3D Adaptor for 4K Projector

Sony developed a single-projector 3D adaptor designed to work specifically with its 4K projectors in movie theaters. Sony says the new adaptor uses the full height of Sony's 4K imaging device, with the ability to display full 2K images for the left and right eye simultaneously and in parallel, from top and bottom.

The new lens units, models LKRL-A002 (X1.1 -1.9) and LKRL-A003 (X1.9 – 3.3), have optical and mechanical assembly for each left and right eye image. Sony also says this is designed to meet DCI specifications for 3D digital projection.

When used with Sony's integrated media block (LMT-200), Sony says the SRX-R220 4K projector can achieve 4:4:4 RGB signal path from media block, while avoiding the "triple-flash" artifacting of some 3D solutions. It can also deliver a 60P 3D display that is especially effective for sports or other fast-moving content in 3D.

Sony is touting this system as an easy way for exhibitors to switch between showing 4K and 3D content. The 3D adaptor attaches onto the lens mount of the projector, and is compatible with all Sony 4K projectors currently in the field. Sony says it can be easily removed or re-attached within minutes.

The 3D adaptor is expected to be available in March 2009.

For more information, go to http://news.sel.sony.com/en/press_room/b2b/broadcast_production/release/37679.html

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Sony Pictures Entertainment to Make and Release “Filmed” Productions Using 4K Digital Technology

Not terribly surprising, but Sony Pictures entertainment says it will now use 4K digital technology in making most of its filmed productions. The movies will be filmed at full 4K resolution, scanning at 4K, using a 4K workflow process, and releasing a 4K DCP to theaters.

Sony Pictures has already released the summer movie "Hancock" in 4K. Movies released in 4K can play in theaters with either 4K or 2K projectors. Among the next motion pictures to be digitally imaged in 4K by Sony Pictures, and available for 4K distribution, are expected to be "2012," "Salt," and "The Green Hornet," with more titles to be announced.

For more information, go to http://news.sel.sony.com/en/press_room/b2b/broadcast_production/release/37677.html

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JVC Boasting Four Times the Resolution in New 4K2K Projector

JVC says the company has developed the smallest 4K2K ultra high definition projector. Seen at CEDIA for the first time, the DLA-SH4K uses the company's new 1.27-inch 10 megapixel D-ILA devices. This is designed both for high-end home theater and for commercial applications.

JVC says the projector's chassis is 65% smaller than the competition's. The D-ILA devices used in the DLA-SH4K are specified at native 4096 x 2400 resolution with multi-screen display modes that allow users to view up to four Full HD screens at a time. A new optical design with an 825 Watt Xenon lamp gives an ANSI lumens spec of 3500. This also has adjustable lamp power that ranges from 825 to 660 watts.

Two DLA-SH4Ks can be stacked, and the projector can be inclined up to a ± 90-degree tilt angle. JVC says it has a horizontal lens shift of ±25% and vertical shift of ±50%.

The DLA-SH4K includes DVI-D (dual-link) x 4 input terminals, RS-232C, USB and Ethernet

JVC will offer two lenses — the GL-MS4015SZG 1.22x zoom lens for screens up to 300 inches, and the GL-MS4011SG short throw lens for screens up to 250 inches. The DLA-SH4K is available now.

For more information, go to http://pro.jvc.com/referenceseries/default.htm

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New Closed Captioning Projector From Toshiba Just 3” Tall

Toshiba introduced a new slim projector, the 3LCD TLP-X150U, which provides closed captioning, and PC-free presentation using USB. This is specified at XGA resolution, 2600 ANSI lumens, 600:1 contrast ratio and measures 3 inches tall and weighs 4 pounds. The company expects this projector to address business, education and home entertainment markets.

Other features include a blackboard function to project on non-screen surfaces, quick-power shutdown and automatic vertical keystone correction.

MSRP is $959 and it is shipping now.

For more information, go to http://explore.toshiba.com/projectors/mobile/TLP-X150U

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Westinghouse Releases Digital Signage Software

Westinghouse Digital Electronics introduced new software for digital signage, targeting the hospitality, education, food service, retail and point-of-sale industries. The new products are the neonSource, neonNow and neonPlayer and the company says they do not require a dedicated IT person for deployment.

neonSource lets the user showcase ads while customers are watching selected programming. This is offered for displays in landscape mode, and it lets users create their own content. It can also display multiple images on the screen at the same time.

neonSource can be used in a bar or restaurant that is showing a sporting event on TV. It allows the business to run banner ads, or include text insertion, about drink or food specials or other promotional offers. Another example of a neonSource application is in the doctor's office waiting room that is showing an educational video and also showing banner ads or text. neonSource can be connected to a DVD player or cable box.

neonNow is preloaded with templates, so the user doesn't have to create their own content. It uses an icon-based drag-and-drop user interface that lets the user drop in logos, ads or videos and it can be run in portrait and landscape.

Westinghouse Digital, as you know, also provides a number of LCD monitors that can be used in the signage solutions. neonSource, neonNow and neonPlayer are available now.

For more information, go to http://www.westinghousedigital.com/newsdetail.aspx?nid=526

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New CobraNet LE Finally Debuts — True Networked Audio Protocol

Cirrus Logic announced the company, working with engineers and designers from Attero Tech, developed CobraNet LE, described as a low-cost stereo implementation of Cirrus Logic's CobraNet networked digital audio technology.

CobraNet LE technology helps installers deploy CobraNet technology into network end nodes, such as wall and ceiling speakers and audio wall boxes. The company also points to power and cost savings as a selling point, since it makes it is designed to make it easier for customers to drive CobraNet into designs that still use traditional analog point-to-point networks for audio distribution

CobraNet LE technology is available for purchase as a market-ready CobraNet LE Reference Design or as an IC from Attero Tech. The CobraNet LE Reference Design is priced at $299 and the IC is available for $7.81 in quantities of 10,000.

For more information, go to http://www.cirrus.com/en/press/releases/P556.html

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Celebrate AV Week October 19-25, 2008

News from InfoComm: Share your enthusiasm for AV in 2008. Plan an event and reach out to your community during AV Week.

Read about last year's successful events including open houses, student tours, trade shows and architect lunch and learns in the U.S. and Canada.

AV Week is approaching and InfoComm International wants to help you, the AV professional, stage events and activities to educate clients and users about the benefits of AV in business, education, government, healthcare, worship and more. Visit www.AVWeek.org for everything you need to promote and host an AV Week event. Also be sure to visit the NEW AV Week Store. No matter what type of event you have, AV Week merchandise makes for great give-a-ways, prizes and more!

For more information, go to http://www.avweek.org/

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Polycom appoints Jim Smith as a product manager, responsible for the installed voice product line (Vortex and SoundStructure). Smith has been with Polycom since 2002 and is an InfoComm instructor… A PSMH heavy duty fixed wall mount from Chief Manufacturing was selected to mount a 103” LCD cinema screen and the PSTU fixed wall mounts secure two 58” flat panel plasma televisions in a state-of-the-art showroom for an up-market property development on the Riviera Maya near Cancun on Mexico's Caribbean coast… Analog Way is celebrating its 10th anniversary, and announced the company is moving its American headquarters to new facility on Broadway in New York City…  NetStreams named Rusty Wagner general manager of commercial sales, responsible for leading the company's South Central and Western U.S. commercial sales efforts. Wagner has nearly 13 years of sales management experience including positions at AMX and Crestron… AMX opened a Las Vegas office and showroom, with 5,800 square feet where more than 350 AMX products are on display. The office is on Howard Hughes Parkway… Da-Lite Screen Company was a recipient of Custom Retailer's EXCITE Awards for the company's 3D Virtual Grey front projection screen material, chosen among 450 submissions… Crestron announced Jay Almer is the new director of commercial lighting. He has 28 years in the light controls industry, including positions at Lutron and Lighting Designers… Milestone AV opened a sales office and warehouse in Hong Kong, which stocks Chief Manufacturing products and will serve dealers throughout Asia Pacific… LED video company Element Labs appointed Barbara Nelson as the new CEO. She was previously CEO of NeoScale Systems and previously worked at Quantum Corporation.

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Copyright 2008 – rAVe [Publications] – All rights reserved – All rights reserved. For reprint policies, contact rAVe [Publications], 510 Meadowmont Village Circle, Suite 376 – 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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