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Just when you think there are plenty of projectors on the market, here come more. But the innovations keep coming, too. Check out Sony and Christie's new models as well as InFocus' sales strategy covered in this week's news. This issue, we welcome a "mystery guest" editorial, who penned An AV Rant about why the ProAV industry isn't as "all that" as Gary Kayye always says it is. See if you agree! Thanks to NSCA Executive Director Chuck Wilson with another great installment in the "What Keeps us up at Night" series. This time, he talks about how to work with the government. Enjoy the issue! –Gary Kayye, CTS 
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Editorial An AV Rant
Let me start by introducing myself. I am not as famous as Gary Kayye, but I am way smarter than he is–and a heck of a lot more observant. Gary's always talking about how awesome the AV industry is and how we should all be thankful for the traditional AV distribution channel and how manufacturers are crazy for not using the AV channel (as opposed to, let's say, the IT channel or the Wal-Mart channel) to distribute AV products. Well, I disagree, and here's why: • Too Many Men: Why are there so many guys in this industry? Where are the women? I would much rather buy something from a female than a male (unless, of course, it's fishing tackle). Women have more pleasant voices than men, aren't as pushy as men and have way better handwriting. And, they smile more, not to mention they don't squeeze your hand like it's a Soloflex machine when they meet you. Speaking of meeting women, how are you supposed to greet a female in this industry? Is it a handshake? A kiss on the left cheek? Right cheek? What's the correct protocol here? • Speaking of Women: I'll tell you what… one company's figured out the importance of hiring women: Crestron. Every trade show I'm at, I make a point of heading straight over to the Crestron booth for my daily dose of smiling, pleasant-sounding, non-pushy ladies. But, what's with the cardigan sweaters? • Too Much Drinking (and '80s rock icons): How many people can say they've been to concerts with 18 of the Billboard Music's Top 20 bands from 1982? Well, if you've been in the AV industry for more than three years, you can. I've seen Pat Benatar, David Lee Roth, Huey Lewis and the News, Kansas, Journey, the B52s, Earth Wind and Fire, KISS (OK, well, I actually saw Midget KISS, but it looked and sounded just like regular KISS, only smaller), the Stray Cats and Foreigner–just to name a few. These washed-up has-beens are all making the business trade-show concert circuit, playing for audiences of AV geeks (like me) and we seem to be eating it up! I don't want my MTV… • Too Many Ugly Products: I have been asked not to mention specific manufacturers by name, to avoid offending any ugly product manufacturers, so I won't. But, will someone tell the projector manufacturer industry that geometrically, there are other shapes than a rectangle! And, while you're at it, let the control system manufacturers know that I have yet to see a man (or woman) with a square finger. Finally, please give an engineer a ride over to Sherwin Williams so he can see that there are colors other than gray… • Un-Memorable Product Names (SKUs): Check this out: A manufacturer's rep stopped by our office to introduce us to a yet-to-be announced product called the VP-SL3400-IR-45NWB. Last time I checked, that word/name wasn't in the dictionary; I just Googled it. What is the deal with all these complicated, meaningless numbers and letters? Why can't we use names such as iPhone? OK, admittedly, I have no clue what the "i" is for, but I am pretty sure that it's a phone that also does "i." I'll tell you what: The car manufacturers have this all figured out. Names such as Accord, Camry, Sequoia and Hummer roll right off the tongue (no pun intended). Sure, they have nothing to do with the product, per se, but, at least I can remember them, and I know they are cars. But, I am told that the aforementioned product has logic in its name. Apparently, VP is video processor. Ah, OK, I buy it. And, 3400 is the resolution it reaches. OK, I'm with you so far. And, the 45NWB is the shelf location and catalog page number as well as the color, enclosure style and type of rack ears it has. Lost me there… • Bad PR: Does PR stand for public relations or press release? Officially, I'm not totally sure. But, in the AV market, it's clear that it stands for press releases–and lots of them. I am convinced that PR companies in the AV market are paid by the letter. Just last week, I read a press release from a manufacturer that I didn't even know we carried, announcing that someone (again, someone I didn't know) was promoted to a position that I didn't even know existed: order proofreader. Honestly, I didn't care. Sure, I am happy that Connie whatever her name is was promoted, because I assume that means she's making more money, thus paying more taxes, thus adding to the US infrastructure to serve the poor and indigent population. But, you know, I wasn't buying anything from them before she was promoted and I am not going to buy anything from them because she was promoted. Come to think of it, I can't even remember the name of the manufacturer. Let me go re-read that PR and see who that was again…
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.
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Special Announcement Watch Gary Kayye Discuss Videoconferencing with John Swoyer in Second Installment of Sounds & Communication's VIEWpoint
Sound & Communications launched the industry's first streaming internet talk show. VIEWpoint will feature the industry's most recognizable and knowledgeable professionals talking about the hottest, most important issues facing systems integrators today. Sound & Communications expects lively, and sometimes controversial, discussions. The twice-monthly emails will provide a clickable link, directing viewers to the Flash stream. Downloads are also available for Apple iPod, iPhone and 3G-video-enabled mobile devices (carrier restrictions apply). To view the current Webcast, go to http://www.soundandcommunications.com/viewpoint For Part 1 and other archived episodes, go to http://www.soundandcommunications.com/viewpoint/XML/viewpoint.xml
Feature Article Series What Keeps us up at Night
While the government, too, must demonstrate financial responsibility, it must also continue providing the services it always had, requiring it to make the investment necessary to keep things running smoothly. Agencies such as the Department of Defense, for example, continue to be especially active in seeking out contractors to fulfill new security initiatives. As IT and AV technologies continue to converge, systems contractors that serve government clients are finding themselves involved during the early stages of these projects. There are few differences between working for a private sector business and working for the government. In both scenarios, your firm must have the proper resources to execute projects according to client goals. There are several procedures, however, that businesses must follow to even be considered for a government job. First, private organizations cannot bid on government projects unless they are already listed with the General Services Administration (GSA). Responsible for nearly $70 billion in annual government spending, the GSA is the main resource for agencies to connect with product and service providers in the private sector. The sticking point for systems contractors new to the government arena is that most agencies require suppliers to provide references, preferably other government agencies. This is not easy if you've never even worked for a government organization. To get around this requirement, some companies align themselves with other businesses already on the government's radar by acting as a subcontractor to a GSA-listed contractor. This not only provides a reference, but it also offers valuable insight into how government projects work, and can help you decide whether you want to make the leap into the public sector. Most systems contracting companies that succeed in the public arena designate one person, or a group of people within their organization, to service this specific market. The main reason is the abundant government paperwork; agencies specify how contracts and project documentation must be written, Bids are usually written in two parts: one is dedicated to technical specifications and the other details price. These rules may seem daunting at first to those accustomed to handling private accounts. However, after completing several jobs, it is possible to create a defined and streamlined process. Agencies at the local and state levels, as well as some federal organizations, also require bid, performance and/or payment bonds. These bonds supply the government client with insurance that the job is done according to the agreed-upon specifications. The bonds also provide them with protection should the systems contractor fail to complete the project or neglect to pay its own subcontractors. Bonds generally constitute a small percentage of the project cost — approximately two to three percent. To become eligible for these bonds, systems contractors must first acquire "bonding capacity," the amount of money for which they can be bonded. If, for example, your company is bondable for up to $100,000, you probably won't be considered for a $3 million job. If you would like to work for the government, consider these points: · Consult your geographical markets to determine potential business needs. · Pinpoint the areas of the public sector that best match your firm's competencies. · Hire people familiar with the territory so they can speak the client's language. · Construct a solid plan to determine how quickly you can expand into this market. · Differentiate yourself from your competition just like you do when doing business with private enterprises. While the government may be the largest client in the country, it seeks the same characteristics that all customers, large and small, demand from suppliers: Knowledgeable companies that can predict and solve issues before they escalate — companies that will serve as valuable resources in the implementation of increasingly complex technological systems. These considerations are a tall order, but all are requirements our members are accustomed to fulfilling every day. For more information about all the services NSCA members provide, please visit the Members on the Map online directory at www.nsca.org.
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Manufacturers Forum to Make ISE Debut — Gary Kayye to Moderate
Running from 4pm to 5:30pm on Tuesday 29 January at the ISE Presentation Theatre, the ISE Manufacturers Forum will see some of our industry's most prominent figures sharing a table to discuss the future of the systems integration business. Panelists for the event will include: -Andrew Edwards, President of Extron -Allan Bjørnstad, CTO EMEA of Tandberg -Randy Klein, Senior VP of Crestron -Speakercraft President Jeremy Burkhardt -A.C. Ter Meulen, President of Mitsubishi Europe -Dirk Hendrickx, General Manager of Barco Presentation The event will be moderated by Gary Kayye of rAVe Publications, who as he does at InfoComm, will invite comment from panelists AND the audience in attendance — this will be YOUR chance to ask these manufacturers anything you want to know about their vision for the future of the AV markets. Says Gary: "The Manufacturers Forum is always a highlight at InfoComm. It gives our high-profile panel the chance to demonstrate their vision of the future of AV, and attendees a unique opportunity to fire questions – awkward or otherwise! There's always a wide range of opinion and there are always a few surprises in store. I'm really excited about bringing the Forum to ISE for the first time, and to anyone who has not attended one of the InfoComm sessions in the past, I can promise them an hour of healthy debate that they will find as valuable as it is entertaining." If you're heading to the ISE Show, please add this exciting event to your show calendar!
Christie Debuts Bright 3LCD Projector With Choice Among Five Lenses
Christie designed this projector for easy maintenance — the lens, filter, and lamp are easy to access, with a single front access filter, easy rear lamp accessibility, and tool-less access to the lens. It is offered in a "body only" format so that the integrator can choose the exact lens for the application. Integrators can choose among five such lenses. Both the Christie LX500 and Christie LX380 now ship in ‘body only' format. Inputs include analog 5xBNC, and digital DVI-D inputs for HDTV standards up to 1080. For more information, go to http://www.christiedigital.com
Click above for more information Two New Large Venue Projectors From Sony — Technology Breakthrough?
Ever since DLP technology debuted in smaller projectors, Texas Instruments has been able to claim a major brightness and contrast ratio lead over standard poly-silicon (transmissive) LCD projection. So, manufacturers like Sony and Epson countered with reflective technologies (i.e. Sony's award-winning SXRD technology). Thus, reflective 3LCD and reflective DLP were head to head on specifications — but DLP has held the lead with pricing as generally DLP is cheaper than reflective 3LCD. The two new projectors are the VPL-FW300L (7,000 lumens) and the VPL-FH300L (6,000 lumens). Sony says they are especially designed to deliver outstanding images while in the same room as the audience — rooms such as smaller auditoriums, large classrooms and meeting rooms, museum exhibits, event centers, ballrooms and movie theaters for displaying pre-show content. The VPL-FW300L projector is specified at WXGA+ resolution of 1366 x 800, and the VPL-FH300L at 2048 x 1080. Both models are housed in the same chassis, and share the same type of lenses, lamps, and filters as well as the same connections and network functions. The projectors' round design also includes large-diameter fans and high-flow cooling air ductwork that lets the projector run cool while fan noise is decreased, which is why Sony says they work well in the same room with the audience without detracting from the display. Users have a choice of five different standard lenses for excellent placement flexibility, and both models have a locking bayonet mount mechanism for easy lens changes. The VPL-FW300L and the VPL-FH300L projectors are planned to be available in January, at suggested list prices of $27,000 and $40,000, respectively. For more details, go to http://news.sel.sony.com/en/press_room/b2b/broadcast_production/display_systems/release/32186.html For more on BrightEra, go to http://www.sony.net/Products/SC-HP/brighterawld/index.html
Optoma Expands Office Projector Offerings
The EP721, EP727 and EP728 are DLP models, all priced under $1,000, are billed as lightweight models, and all feature built-in speakers. The EP721 ($599) is specified at 2200 lumens, 2000:1 contrast ratio and SVGA resolution with support for 5:4, 16:9 and 1.78:1 aspect ratios. The EP727 ($699) is specified at 2200 lumens, 2200:1 contrast ratio and XGA resolution with the same support for various aspect ratios. The EP728 ($999) is specified at a slightly brighter 2700 lumens, 2200:1 contrast ratio, and XGA resolution. All have VGA-In/Out, DVI w/HDCP, USB & RS232. All are shipping now. For more information, go to http://www.optomausa.com/PressRelease_detail.asp?Press_id=39
New Learn Big Models From InFocus
But the new InFocus Learn Big series IN2100 EP is being marketed in a very simple way that other companies will no doubt (or should) model. The Learn Big IN2100 EP is a DLP BrilliantColor projector specified at 2,500 lumens, and the only sales choice is the resolution. So, it's "here's the projector, how sharp do you want your image?" Resolution choices are SVGA, XGA or WXGA, and that determines the price of $599, $749, or $999. The projector includes a new built-in Wireless Ready port for upgrading to InFocus' LiteShow II Wireless Presentation adaptor. For more information, go to http://www.infocus.com/Company/PressReleases/2008/012208_2100_series.aspx
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projectiondesign Incorporating Higher Resolutiions Into Two Models
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New Kramer Twisted Pair Cables Move HDMI up to 200 Feet at 1080i
The TP-551 and TP-552 transmitter/receiver system moves HDMI signals to up to 200 feet (60 meters) — depending on resolution of the signal being transmitted and quality of the cable being used. The TP-551 converts an HDMI signal into a twisted pair signal that can be run over shielded or unshielded twisted pair cables such as CAT 5e cables. The TP-552 unit then converts the signal back to HDMI. The units offer up to 1.65Gbps bandwidth per graphic channel and are HDCP compliant and HDTV compatible. The TP-551 and TP-552 pass the EDID, HPD and CEC signals from the source to the display device using CAT 5e. The TP-551 transmitter unit is outfitted with a high/low gain selection button, one HDMI input and two RJ-45 connectors for CAT 5 output. The TP-552 receiver unit offers four equalization levels to enhance performance and is outfitted with two RJ-45 connectors for CAT 5 input and a single HDMI output. LEDs on the front of each unit indicate input, output and power status. Both units use standard 12V DC power, and three TP-551 or TP-552 units can be rack mounted side-by-side in a 1U rack space. The TP-551 and TP-552 are currently shipping in the U.S. and abroad with U.S. list prices of $225 per unit. For more information, go to http://kramer-us.com/
New Short-Throw Projector Mount From Chief
Chief's solution lets users extend a projector up to 12.5 inches from a wall surface. Alternatively, it can be positioned close to the wall using the "home" position. The mount includes integrated roll adjustments and "easy extension" so the distance can be changed easily. Security hardware for fixing the position is also included. Chief's says its new WPA Short Throw Projector Mount is compatible with all major short throw projectors models on the market and custom interfaces for Sanyo, Hitachi and Toshiba are currently available and shipping. The WPA is also compatible with Chief's range of RPA and RPM projector mounts. Chief offers additional accessories for short throw projectors. The CMS390 and CMS391 On-Center Ceiling Plates allow installers to adjust the projector installation up to 24 inches. For more information, go to http://www.chiefmfg.com/
HD Video Access Through USB Port With New Gefen Adapter
The Gefen USB to DVI Graphics Adapter also lets users tweak their video performance, offering a variety of screen resolutions up to 1600×1200 and color depths. Users also have the option of having the USB connected display mirror the main display or extend the desktop to provide increased visibility and the ability to view several applications at the same time in a multiple display situation. Gefen says that testing has shown that up to six USB to DVI Graphics Adapters can be connected to any one personal computer at a time with a reliable delivery of video to all six displays. The Gefen USB to DVI Graphics Adapter currently supports 32-bit versions of Windows XP and Windows 2000. Subsequent versions are in development for Apple and Windows Vista. For more information, go to http://www.gefen.com/kvm/news/macworld2008-04.jsp
Height Adjustments, Pull-Out Shelves Built Into New Bretford Carts
Both models are 24" wide x 18" deep and can be adjusted from 26" to 42" high by resetting four screws. The top is large enough to accommodate a 20" diagonal monitor or any AV equipment with similar dimensions, and are available with either 4" or 5" swivel casters for easy movement, and locking brakes so the cart stays steady during use. Their die-press shelves feature rounded edges for extra safety during use and while being moved. And, their top shelf includes a non-slip rubber mat to keep expensive audiovisual equipment firmly in place. Optional electrical units with a 20-foot power cord and winder are available. A retrofit kit will also be available at the end of March 2008 so users can convert their existing Bretford A2642 and CA2642 carts for use with new technology teaching tools. These begin shipping February 15. For more information, go to http://www.bretford.com/
Samsung Targets Digital Signage With 70-Inch Networkable LCD
Samsung says this features a new Digital Information Display (DID) panel designed to lower the temperature of the display and therefore handle the most demanding applications. Built-in fans keep temperatures low, says Samsung, so the DID panel ultimately extends the life of the 700Dxn display. This panel uses Samsung's MagicNet Pro software, a really robust feature that seems to rival many stand-alone digital signage applications. It, of course, lets the user control content across several displays, but it does so using a single computer, including control of different content on different displays at different times. And scheduling can be done a month in advance. Another nice feature of the software is that it provides a simple content creation function. Samsung says users just drag and drop existing content files, and this functionality requires little supervision or training. This panel is specified at 5000:1 dynamic contrast ratio, and 1920 x 1080 HD resolution. Samsung also says it has a nice 178 degree viewing angle. The SyncMaster 700DXn will be available in February for an MSRP of $29,989.99. For more information, go to http://www.samsung.com
Another 70-Inch — This One From Planar
The Planar m70L includes built-in power management and automation, 178-degree viewing angle, and technologies designed for resistance to image quality degradation and automatic ambient backlight control to accommodate 24-hour operation in unpredictable environments. The Planar m70L is specified at full HD 1080p resolution, 1500:1 contrast ratio, high brightness (600 nits) and HD-SDI connectivity A built-in clock allows users to schedule events such as power on/off and source switching. It uses Planar Big Picture and WallNet technologies for image processing and automated display monitoring. It looks like the Planar 70-inch and the Samsung model are going toe to toe — as is the Samsung, this is priced at $30,000. For more information, go to http://phx.corporate-ir.net/phoenix.zhtml?c=111133&p=irol-newsArticle&t=Regular&id=1098178&
"It uses 4mm indoor LEDs and has, BY FAR, the blackest black I have ever seen on ANY LED display," says Gary. And now you can judge the NX-4 for yourself at ISE. Barco describes its new NX-4 LED panel as a "breakthrough." Designed for indoor use, with Black LED technology, the NX-4 claims to deliver the deepest contrast ratio of any product on the market, at 4000:1. Barco says it's a true black LED (not just a black package, but a radically new design, using black silicon resin instead of the traditional white epoxy.) Each LED, says the maker, outputs the deepest blacks and brightest luminance levels of any product on the market (2000 Nits). Integrators should note it also uses a frame built of carbon fiber to make it stronger, lighter and (as long as we are making claims) as much as 10 times less sensitive to deformation. For more information, go to http://www.barco.com/corporate/en/products/product.asp?GenNr=1839
New Content Server From TANDBERG
And now, TANDBERG introduced the TANDBERG Content Server (TCS) for recording, managing and sharing content. One new feature is a new built-in library that is navigated via thumb-nail images. Content can be viewed through all major streaming media formats, including Microsoft Windows Media, Quicktime compatible MPEG 4, and RealPlayer. Recorded content can be downloaded to portable media devices such as Apple's iPod and Microsoft's Zune, and TANDBERG says it easily integrates with leading portals: SharePoint, Blackboard, Accordent & IBM WebSphere. Since it's from TANDBERG, there's no surprise that it offers content recording from all standards-based H.323 or SIP videoconferencing systems. For more information, go to http://www.tandberg.com/press_room/viewPressRelease.do?id=326
C-nario to Show Scalable Digital Signage at ISE
By connecting several PCs together, each simulating up to 500 content channels, and connecting this system to the C-nario management system, C-nario says that all management features work successfully and efficiently with deployments of up to 10,000 channels per server. C-nario says the scalability tools target large-scale digital signage displays in the retail and banking industries. Main features include: C-nario Watchdog, identifying, repairing and reporting problems; C-nario Snapshots, sending snapshots of multiple channels simultaneously for monitoring; and C-nario device monitoring and control tools, including Pin Table, organizing feedback to ensure all screens are working properly, and Panel Designer for creating user-generated control environment. For more information, go to http://www.c-nario.com/
Artcoustic's New Commercial Installation Loudspeaker and Subwoofer
It has interchangeable screen options, so you can choose how the speakers look. The new Spitfire Subwoofer has a more compact form and durable finish, says the company, making it ideal for the professional market, such as recording and film studios, dedicated cinemas and fixed installations in general. The Spitfire Subwoofer uses four 10" X2 long-throw woofers and a X2 bass system. The Spitfire subwoofer comes with an Artcoustic PA-1800: an 1800watt amplifier. For more information, go to http://www.artcoustic.com/
ESPA Gets a New Director
Mydland is responsible for strategic planning and business development, including licensing sales, finance and marketing, and moving the current operations from Cedar Rapids, Iowa, to Arlington, Virginia. He also serves as lead spokesperson for ESPA and its vision of building a qualified entry-level workforce for the electronic systems industry. After moving to Washington, DC from his native California, Mydland served as a political appointee in two different presidential administrations and has held positions in several entrepreneurial ventures and trade associations. Mydland worked at the Computing Technology Industry Association (CompTIA) for eight years where he held numerous positions including director of government relations, and served as CompTIA's technology workforce policy expert at both the federal and state levels. Mydland earned his degree in political science from California Polytechnic State University and recently attended the Keller Graduate School of Management program. For more information, go to http://www.espa.org/
 Well, that's it for this edition of rAVe! Thank you for spending time with me as we muse the industry's happenings. To continue getting my newsletter, or to sign up a friend, click the link below. To send me feedback, don't reply to this newsletter – instead, write to me at [email protected] or for editorial: Denise Harrison at [email protected] A little about me: Gary Kayye, CTS, founder of Kayye Consulting. Gary Kayye, an audiovisual veteran and columnist, began the widely-read KNews, a premier industry newsletter, in the late 1990s, and created the model for and was co-founder of AV Avenue – which later became InfoComm IQ. Kayye Consulting is a company that is committed to furthering the interests and success of dealers, manufacturers, and other companies within the professional audiovisual industry. rAVe ProAV Edition was launched in February 2003. rAVe HomeAV Edition co-sponsored by CEDIA launched in February 2004. rAVe Rental [and Staging] launched in November 2007. To read more about my background, our staff, and what we do, go to http://www.kayye.com Copyright 2008 – Kayye Consulting – All rights reserved. For reprint policies, contact Kayye Consulting, 400 Meadowmont Village Circle, Suite 425 – Chapel Hill, NC 27517 – 919/969-7501. Email: [email protected] rAVe ProAV Edition contains the opinions of the author only and does not necessarily reflect the opinions of other persons or companies or its sponsors. | ||||||||||||||||||||||
