InfoComm Southeast Asia Day 2 Supplement

The

forecast for

COVID-19 MAY HAVE UPENDED THE WORLD but, for Southeast Asia (SEA), it is levelling the playing field. The classrooms, offices, hotels and public spaces of today were not built to cater to the new norms of social distancing and remote lifestyles. Businesses and governments of more developed nations are finding themselves reconfiguring or retrofitting legacy infrastructures in a bid to futureproof them. With its underdeveloped infrastructures, SEA offers a different landscape with low barriers to entry for creative minds. Working alongside architects

and interior designers, technology innovators can shape the blueprints for hybrid classrooms, virtual healthcare and gyms, VR-powered enterprises, AR retail and holographic events.

The SEA region has readily accepted the benefits of AR and VR, touchless digital signage, wearables and voice-recognition systems technologies. As we continue our digitalisation journey, the rising demand for disruption-ready pro AV solutions is rising. As such, the revenue of the larger Asia Pacific’s pro AV market is set to hit US$126b by 2025, and its growth will be the strongest compared with the rest of the world’s. Going forward, the surging pro AV sentiment in the region is set to play a pivotal role.

Welcome

Welcome to Thailand! And welcome to InfoComm Southeast Asia 2022.

Set in this beautiful and perpetually popular travel destination, InfoComm Southeast Asia presents a unique opportunity to experience something beyond the norm. Notably, some of you are here as guests of our exhibitors. Partners, dealers, distributors, system integrators and even clients – welcome! We are certain that you will benefit greatly from the programme line-up that your host has specially prepared for you – a business- and leisure-filled itinerary that will maximise your time here. Indeed, there is no experience greater than weaving work and play together against the backdrop of exciting Bangkok!

During show hours, InfoComm Southeast Asia is a conducive setting for minds to mingle and ideas to ignite. It is an arena with 130 exhibiting companies, featuring powerful technology and solutions – driven by cutting-edge professional audiovisual (pro AV) capabilities – that have digitally transformed

industries around the world. The show’s signature summit offers more than 30 free learning sessions spread across five tracks, each dedicated to various vertical market end users and AV professionals. In particular, day 2 of the show features an AV Technical Tour to Expressway Authority of Thailand where delegates can witness real-life applications of transformative pro AV solutions in a critical command and control centre setting.

All this would not be possible without the strong support of our partners, including local and regional government agencies, trade bodies and industry media. To each and every one of them, I would like to say thank you.

Strategically located in Thailand, with so many local and international industry stakeholders to meet and solution-seekers to network with, InfoComm Southeast Asia is an invaluable hub of opportunities for those looking to make inroads into the Asia Pacific region. We look forward to hearing about the success stories emerging from our show in the months ahead.

The organiser of InfoComm Southeast Asia 2022 would like to thank the following organisations for their support:

THE PRIME GATEWAY TO ASIA

NIXT

– Education AV Managers Day

1030–1100 Keynote: Develop Futureproofing Universities in the Age of Digital Disruption

At a time of profound change driven by changing workforce and technology, universities need to keep pace with the digital revolution without dismissing the positives aspects of on-campus learning. So how can universities create innovative learning environments for tomorrow’s world?

Kylie Colvin, chief strategy and operations officer, University of Nottingham Malaysia

1030–1230

Project Management for AV

AVIXA Seminars

1030–1130

Advancing Imaging Topics in AV-over-IP

Industry Forum –IT

Co-organised by the Association of Thai Software Industry (ATSI)

1030–1230

1100–1150 Panel Discussion: The Future of Learning

The continuing digitisation of learning Evolution in pedagogy

The rise of virtual schools

• Reconciling traditional learning with next-gen delivery

Moderator: Lam Shao Wei Sean, head of data science, SingHealth; associate professor, Duke NUS; Singapore Management University

Panelists:

Jayson Barlan, director for institutional development and dean of student affairs, Lyceum of the Philippines University; Kylie Colvin, chief strategy and operations officer, University of Nottingham Malaysia; James Worland, principal, The International School @ ParkCity, Malaysia

Whether you are involved in live events or installed AV, every job requires coordination and management, both internally and with external stakeholders. Successful projects are the result of good planning (including drawing on previous experience) and ongoing communication and coordination between all parties. This is project management. We will look at the basics, and some not so basics, of project management principles and practices as they apply to the AV industry. This seminar should be of interest to you if you are involved in delivering projects to your organisation’s clients, or indeed if you are the client or an allied professional.

T S Gopalakrishnan, CTS-D, CTS-I, country manager – India and GCC, AVIXA

This course takes a deep dive into advanced imaging topics in the SDVoE ecosystem.

Multiviews and videowalls are covered in extreme detail, including creation of custom configurations. Other advanced topics such as EDIDs, LED processors, ultrawide presentation and projector edge blending are also covered.

Art Weeks, director of product management, ZeeVee, Inc

1130–1230

Overview of Videoconferencing Solutions Architectures

The attendees will know about main parts of any videoconferencing system which can be leveraged in software and serverbased solutions for videoconferencing as well as the types of deployment, work principles and therefore distinctive pros and cons for both kinds of architectures mentioned. Also the videoconferencing architectures MCU, SFU and SVC will be comprehensively reviewed during the seminar.

Topic 1: Explore New Effective Journey of Thai Software Developers

Topic 2: Minimise Software Development Process Costs with Digital Workforce Development

Krissada Chalermsuk, board committee, Association of Thai Software Industry (ATSI)

1150–1230

Case Study: Reinventing School for the Digital Age

James Worland, principal, The International School @ ParkCity, Malaysia

Lev Yakupov, chief marketing officer, Secure Meetings UAB

Information

NIXT SUMMIT – Retail The Transformation of Retail

1330–1410 Shopping in the Metaverse – Ready for this New Era of Virtual Retail?

The ability to shop in the metaverse will be one of the most exciting possibilities. That is why many fashion brands are looking for ways to get involved in the metaverse vision to offer real-time, more immersive and interactive experiences. So, what opportunities and changes does the metaverse offer retailers?

Nattapon Rangsiyakul, vice president of engineering, Ascend Group; Tharathorn Inphen, head of engineering, Ascend Group

1410–1450 Case Study: Creating a WOW Factor for Hybrid Retail Experiences

A hybrid shopping journey can help increase customer satisfaction and lead to customer loyalty. If shoppers see that you made their experience convenient, they won’t feel the need to choose the competition. This session serves as a real-life case study.

1450–1530 Social Commerce: Five-Year Retrospective Learnings

Ferdi Anggriawan, head of digital marketing, growth and intelligence, Gojek

AV Managers Day

AVIXA Seminars Industry Forum –Museum

Co-organised by Museum Association of Thailand

1330–1530

Fundamentals of Acoustics

Awareness of how the ambient environment of a space affects the quality and propagation of sound –how, for instance, reflective surfaces, such as walls and floors, create waves of echoes that smear speech intelligibility and musical timbre – has been slow to take root, even in dedicated performance venues. But that’s been changing in recent years, driven by the complexity of sound in modern media and content.

Like no other, the field of acoustics is rife with myth, misinformation and marketing tactics that belies the true science and legacy of the trade. Acousticians and acoustical experts have backgrounds rooted in maths and science, and spend years studying and honing their craft. Today, acousticians and acoustical experts work on venues as diverse as classrooms, houses of worship, performance centres, courtrooms, broadcast and recording studios. This two-hour session provides an introduction to the principles of acoustics and their applications and its importance. Fundamental topics include the generation, transmission and reception of acoustic waves.

T S

Gopalakrishnan, CTS-D, CTS-I, country manager – India and GCC, AVIXA

1330–1430

AV Control Integration and the API

In this session, the attendee will learn details about what an API is, why APIs are important and how to interact with example APIs. Furthermore, this course explores AV control systems and how they work together via APIs with AV system hardware. The course includes live API and AV control system demonstrations with a focus on how they interact with each other.

Art Weeks, director of product management, ZeeVee Inc

1430–1530

Future of the Digital Hotel Environment

With tourism being such an important factor for the Thai and SE Asian markets, and with countries finally emerging from three years of downturn in tourist dollars, the question of how to attract visitors to hotels will be key to define the success of various properties. Learn about digital AV options for reception and meeting rooms as we discuss inroom entertainment in the post-Covid era.

Rod Fowler, MMD Singapore

Closed-door event 1330–1345

Welcome Remarks

Chaiwat Chaiprasert, vice president, Museum Association of Thailand 1345–1405

Keynote: Metaverse Digital World for Museum Thai Matthew Deayton, deputy chief executive director, Vega Global 1405–1500

Panel Discussion: How Digital Technologies Can Transform Museums in Thailand?

• Overview of IT, digital, metaverse, social media and online platform.

• How to apply technologies to museums.

• Future outlook of applying technologies to museums in Thailand.

Panelists: Prapaisri Thaipanit and Pongpan Suriyaphat, board committee, Museum Association of Thailand

1500–1600

Awards Ceremony

Channarong Pumbanchow, president, Museum Association of Thailand

1600–1655

Internal member meeting

1655–1700

Closing Remarks

Channarong Pumbanchow, president, Museum Association of Thailand

NIXT SUMMIT – Immersive Sound System AV Managers Day

Transform Entertainment Experiences with Immersive Sound System

The new era of sound that the AV industry has to adopt for the future world of hybrid communication. This latest technology extends the existing surround sound systems by adding height channels, allowing sounds to be interpreted in three-dimensional 360° objects. Learn how to get this system equipped for your business.

Phonlasit Thinnakorn na Ayuthaya, vice-dean, planning and finance division, Institute of Music Science and Engineering (IMSE)

AV Network Preparation, Readiness and Design

In this session, the attendee will learn about AV IPbased network design. Starting with an introduction to what an IP network switch is, the course focuses on important concepts specific to designing and installing a functional AV IP network. Attendees will understand concepts such as switch backplanes, LANs, VLANs, full/half duplex communication, AV directional flow, PoE and PoE budgeting.

Art Weeks, director of product management, ZeeVee Inc

Panel Discussion: Immersive Sound System Design and Applications

• What industries will benefit from this system?

• Acoustic design and audio system design for immersive production studio.

• Alternatives of immersive sound system?

Moderator: Ritthikrai Prapaipichit, broadcast and pro AV director, Goldenduck International Co., Ltd

Panelists: Phonlasit Thinnakorn na Ayuthaya, vice-dean, planning and finance division, Institute of Music Science and Engineering (IMSE); Sutat Kohkiat, CEO, Mr Team Production; Worawit Pikulthong, adjunct professor, Institute of Music Science and Engineering (IMSE)

Creating Standard Operating Procedures

In this session, we will break down exactly what you need to create an effective and efficient framework for an “easy-tofollow” and comprehensive Standard Operating Procedure. We will explore how to construct instruction, at the most basic level, for complicated tasks and how we can use this framework and instruction to help our clients and support staff in daily AV operations.

S Gopalakrishnan, CTS-D, CTS-I, country manager – India and GCC, AVIXA

Designing for User Experience

In this session, we will learn how user experience research and design techniques can help you better understand user needs and create a great user experience. Attendees explore how to gain an understanding of what is involved in user experience, including conducting interviews, evaluating systems and analysing systems using principles of good design.

S Gopalakrishnan, CTS-D, CTS-I, country manager – India and GCC, AVIXA

Heading into the metaverse

BLOCKCHAIN-INSPIRED ELEMENTS including non-fungible tokens (NFTs) could eventually merge in the so-called metaverse which, in the face of dying Web2 business models, companies like Facebook are pinning their future on. The metaverse is a virtualreality world where people communicate, trade, play, learn and otherwise interact with each other. Unlike social Web2 platforms, where the user is the product, in Web3 the user can also be the decentralised owner and medium of exchange. Needless to say, audio and video technology are the primary drivers in this mixed-reality media world.

The term “metaverse” is a loose designation that Sean Wargo, AVIXA senior director of market intelligence, describes as “a virtual manifestation of any real-world experience”. As the technology powering the metaverse continues to grow in capability, Facebook founder Mark Zuckerberg is just one big player going all-in, as he believes it will not only revolutionise the web but will also be a huge cog in the future digital economy. We’ve already witnessed a colossal surge of interest in and adoption of crypto and NFTs, and both are certain to merge in the metaverse. The aim for

social world where users can freely interact and explore.

“In many ways, this idea started with gaming,” notes Wargo. “Pervasive online worlds have existed in gaming for decades. These spaces enable players to interact with each other using avatars, but what we are seeing now is a shift towards more everyday experiences being offered in VR, such as general meetups, formal events and meetings.”

This might still feel like a long way off, but surveys have found that, typically, just over half of workers believe that the metaverse could have a positive impact on hybrid work, while just under half are actively seeking an “office metaverse”. For businesses, the best time to consider how these future requirements may impact them is right now.

Some AV pros say that, for the time being, the metaverse is limited to specialist applications and verticals such as science, medical research and oil/gas exploration. However, recent trends seem to counteract that idea. Conferencing and collaboration are major parts of AV and there’s a natural potential here when it comes to its use in the metaverse. How long will it be before we are quite literally stepping into a virtual meeting room with a 3D representation of ourselves that can walk, talk and interact with both the virtual environment and other physical users?

highlighted for quite some time, but was amplified during the pandemic, was how few conference rooms had been equipped with effective videoconferencing solutions,” furthers Wargo. “What if we just bypass that and go right to a more virtual option? What makes the metaverse different from videoconferencing is the amount of investment and energy big tech companies are placing on developing the metaverse. This has moved the idea from a fringe, technical gadget to a mainstream conversation and part of a social connection.”

Extended reality (XR) production is also a steppingstone along this path. “XR is a version of this, where the real world can be overlaid with components of a digital/ virtual world to enhance or augment it in some way,” he continues. “This could be contact information for a person standing in front of them, or sales offers for a store nearby. One could imagine a situation where that XR information is a gateway that allows the person to shift into full metaverse VR to interact with a person, brand, event or whatever. One way to think of XR is as a teaser that hooks into the larger metaverse.”

When it comes to the AV industry specifically, some obvious areas stand to benefit from this virtualised movement, the logical early sectors being venues and events. “These have already been looking for new ways to encourage audience

already experimenting in true VR, as we saw with virtual conferences during the pandemic. It’s a natural fit and evolution, particularly since the in-person business model was so disrupted. Retail is similar in that it is more and more an event industry as stores evolve into brand experiences, some of which can and will be fully virtual. Education and conferencing are next up, with virtual classrooms and meeting places as logical places for experimentation.”

So, while the metaverse hasn’t quite arrived yet, the time to take note is certainly here, and the dual worlds of visual production and meeting/collaboration feel like logical starting points for it to grow. Some of the major names in this sector also agree. Attempting to get out of the starting block in front of its competitors, XR specialist disguise recently launched a dedicated metaverse division to focus on these new opportunities, specifically noting that interested companies find it particularly challenging to navigate the technical elements needed to start building metaverse experiences.

“We believe in connecting the physical with the virtual worlds, to create gateways to the metaverse,” explains disguise CEO, Fernando Küfer. “Through this, we will enable a world that fulfils essential human needs: to connect, to collaborate and to be included. The promise of the metaverse is to unleash a new wave of opportunities for every kind of creator.”

Pro AVL Asia’s Simon Luckhurst examines the potential of the metaverse, a separate but often interlinked concept, for the AV industry

SPREAD THE WORD

Compact, powerful and unobtrusive, NEXO loudspeakers combine even coverage and full range sound with excellent speech intelligibility to create the perfect system for worship spaces. Find out more about spreading the word at nexo.sa.com

Thinking. Inside the box.

Acceleration of videoconferencing and UC tools

ORIGINATING AS A LOCAL distributor of AV equipment, Vega Global evolved beyond the remit of a standard systems integrator. Founded by Laurie Chow in 1986, Vega Technology started out from a Kowloon office. The business, however, quickly transitioned from a purely distribution model to a technology solutionsbased specialist for customers with AV/ IT requirements. This customer-first ethos established Vega as a leading multinational pro AV/IT company with a roll call of corporate clients.

Embarking on an extraordinary decade of growth in 2010, 20 branches were established across APAC in addition to Boston and London, with a commensurate staff of 600. The group’s presence in 16 countries worldwide includes operations in Bangkok, Sydney, Mumbai, Jakarta, Kuala Lumpur, Manila, Singapore and Tokyo.

“Our local satellites have their own legal entities, feet on the street and

individuals. But it was the strength of our relationships with the large multinationals and corporate clients that gave us the confidence to spread our network.”

However, rapid expansion had taken its toll. “It’s a typical story in the AV industry, whereby a successful business owner has run his course,” continues Deayton. “When I first came on board in 2015, Laurie made it clear that he was looking for an exit strategy.” In January 2020, Global Vega announced that private equity firm Baird Capital had acquired a large stake in the group. Deayton and Chow had spent two years preparing the next chapter, arranging capital investment to back up ambitious five-year plans as well as significantly recalibrating the management structure of the group. With Deayton assuming the role of deputy CEO, the senior management team consists of Huaming Gu as CEO, Molly Chow as executive director, Kenny Wai as CFO and

Having long extolled the virtues of videoconferencing and unified communications for many years, Vega Global had unwittingly futureproofed itself and its clients for Covid-19. “Everybody was ready to work from home and we had contingencies that we could put in place very quickly. On the other side of the coin, a lot of our clients are top-tier multinational businesses who we have worked with for many years. As we had installed infrastructures for them, they too responded to the situation rapidly.”

The Covid-19 switch operation has, without doubt, accelerated the technological path that Vega Global and others embarked on long ago.

“The technology already existed, but the adoption rate was low, so end user demand has exponentially driven the uptake of these technologies. In previous years, the technologies were exhibited at ISE and InfoComm and you would see smarter clients at these exhibitions

Matthew Deayton

The Vega Global management team

Industry Innovators

embracing and deploying these solutions following demonstrations. The main challenge until now had been getting end users to host meetings on Microsoft Teams or other platforms as they preferred to have face-to-face meetings. The virus has crystallised the necessity to have an infrastructure in place that will allow teams located in disparate places to continue operating.”

Despite the strict Covid restrictions that existed throughout Southeast Asia during the pandemic, Vega Global’s business increased. Deayton testifies that the explosion of videoconferencing as a broader concept of the Unified Collaboration (UC) platforms was a saviour for the AV industry. “The greatest breakthrough in UC came when everyone

have loathed it during those lockdowns, but school children were forced to learn online and, as a result, they are now comfortable using videoconferencing, to the extent that we now have a seamless hybrid learning environment. The next challenge will be integral security issues as we apply smartphone functionality into meeting room setups.

“We have been installing videoconferencing into installations for years, but innovations were previously introduced at a glacial rate. Whether it was Blue Jeans, WebEx or Skype, they were not unified and there was no interoperability. The larger corporates and financial institutions would insist on us building systems for their white glove

operators, so they would not need to touch any buttons. We’ve come a long way since early 2020 during which time both Microsoft Teams and Zoom have risen to the top of the pile and all users can easily operate them. Consequently, the proliferation of videoconferencing and UC tools has accelerated at an incredible rate.”

With the huge upsurge in demand, Deayton has witnessed almost monthly rises in functionality. “It can be likened to the time when Apple first released their iPhone – the penetration was so rapid that it led to overcoming customer feedback. I was invited onto a Microsoft advisory panel in which I give very candid feedback to the Teams developers. We

receive so much user input as a systems integrator that we are well qualified to attest which features work and which ones do not. Microsoft are extremely good listeners and, as such, are excellent developers, releasing monthly new features as a result. The mass of software and firmware updates is now creating a lag in hardware development as platform functionality requires interactive screens, multiple cameras and phones to be operating in sync.”

The Covid lockdowns and restrictions in Hong Kong have endured but, during this decade to date, Vega Global has purchased a legal entity in New Zealand to oversee projects, extended operations in Japan, established a subsidiary in

the Middle East and welcomed new managers into the fold. “All of these major business decisions were discussed and managed on videoconferencing. In addition, we also formalised a strategic alliance with Ayra Futures, our sister company that is also a Baird Capital portfolio company. We jointly collaborate on go-to-market strategies together with increased integration of delivery operations.”

Despite national anomalies throughout APAC, the group has largely been dominant within corporate and government sectors. While different countries are at different stages of their evolution or growth, the digital workplace is destined to grow, and the group is now equipped to capture a broader spectrum of other sectors. “I think a lot of the skill sets we have acquired within the business and corporate sector dovetail into these industries. It may be more challenging to make inroads into areas such as the medical world or stadiums where we traditionally don’t have a lot of experience, but certainly in hospitality and retail, we have a lot of transferable skills and I think it’s a natural fit for us.”

Despite the challenges posed during the pandemic, Vega Global is confidently predicting its turnover to more than double over the next five years. “Baird Capital has given us that financial stability and the backing to take us to the next stages of growth over that period. Although we are now probably the largest systems integrator in Asia Pacific, our local knowledge and experience in each country will serve us well.”

Covid-19 drastically altered the AV industry landscape, but Vega Global certainly used this to its advantage.

K11 Musea shopping mall, Hong Kong

Product Highlights

WyreStorm unveils smarter

WITH THE release of the SP-0108-SCL, WyreStorm Technologies has upgraded the HDMI splitter to replace the SP-618. Purporting to be smarter and more powerful, the 1:8 4K HDR HDMI splitter comes with scaling outputs, audio breakout, EDID management and CEC. Providing added tools for troubleshooting, such as testing API commands and the uploading of EDID files, the downloadable PC software eliminates the need for a control system.

Shipping with mounting brackets, the more compact SP0108-SCL HDMI splitter can be discreetly mounted locally

close to the source within digital signage, education, retail and hospitality settings.

Retail electronics showrooms can distribute the same HD content over eight simultaneous display outputs. The splitter supports full 18Gbps 4K60 4:4:4 video content compatible with the latest HDR video standards, including HDR10, HDR10+

LEA Professional announces availability of IoT-enabled amplifiers

PRO AUDIO amplifier innovator LEA

Professional is shipping its Connect Series 1504. The four-channel 1504 model drives up to 1,500W per channel (into two, four and eight in addition to 70V and 100V RMS) and is available in network connect (1504) and Dante connect versions (1504D). The 1504 and 1504D include advanced DSP that includes linear phase FIR filters and up to 4s of delay. Enhancing flexibility, the Smart Power Bridge feature consists of two Smart Power Bridge channels for transforming the amplifier into a dual 3,000W model. Network connection can be made through the integrated Wi-Fi access point, by connecting to an existing Wi-Fi network or by utilising an LAN Ethernet

and control capabilities allowing SIs to work remotely, the Connect Series models boast built-in Amazon Web Services (AWS) IoT Core via the LEA Cloud Unique. Furthermore, the Connect Series has access to the LEA Professional web UI providing a clear status check of every amplifier connected to the network and a status of every channel on any given amplifier to monitor channel performance. The platform can be used to view and adjust channel settings such as input settings, signal generator, crossover, equaliser, limiter and load monitoring.

Visit LEA Professional on the Fuzion Far East booth, E05

Quest Audio rises to further challenges

DESIGNED FOR any sound reinforcement application requiring a high-fidelity compact loudspeaker, Quest Engineering has added a 4-inch twoway ceiling speaker to its current catalogue. The MX4C comprises a die-cast aluminium woofer with a titanium dome tweeter housed in an ABS fire-rated baffle with an aluminium back can. It also features 70V/100V/16Ω operation together with HF attenuation, located on the front baffle and hidden behind a fast-fit magnetic grille. Available in black or white, the MX4C can

operator

produce a maximum SPL of 104dB (–10db) across a 160° x 130° directivity plain. Measuring 1⁄3 U wide and 1U high, the QX-300 series commercial amplifiers combine a small form factor with Class-D technology. Wall and table mount options offer flexibility, although 10 units can be mounted in a 3U rack space. When in standby mode, the dual 150W amplifier draws under 0.5W of power, making the QX-300A series both Green Energy Star and ErP 1275/2008/EC compliant. Low-Z Visit Quest Audio on the Fuzion Far East booth, E05

Dolby Vision and HLG. As part of WyreStorm’s increasingly environmentally sustainable product line-up, the splitter adopts 12V 1A DC power, which utilises a fraction of its predecessor’s power consumption and releases less heat.

Visit WyreStorm on booth Z03

QX-300A

Product Highlights

Robert Juliat celebrates in four colour

LIGHTING MANUFACTURER

Robert Juliat has launched Sully 4C, a colourful classic LED zoom profile and Fresnel spot with four-colour mixing, based on the success of the Sully white LED family launched in 2020. The Sully 4C Series is described as an affordable, versatile product range with no compromise on build quality and overall performance. It places a new, factory-calibrated, four-colour LED source (red, green, blue, lime) at the centre of a full package of lighting tools for an adaptable solution that is said to deliver even coverage in every model type. The range includes a removeable lamp compartment (T650SX 4C) as a quick and easy solution to upgrade 600SX tungsten profiles to coloured LED sources; a Profile series (650SX 4C) that offers the same zoom range as the 600SX Series and Sully White LED range; and a single lens Fresnel or Pebble luminaire (315L) to complete the line-up.

Integrated into all new Sully 4C models is a new software platform, C3, the Colour Creative Control, which has been specifically designed to offer multiple functions and control in a user-friendly

way. Operators can choose from a variety of presets and options to select their required modes of colour control, colour temperature adjustment, colour mixing, colour filter simulation and calibrated white sources. High-quality dimming and adjustable response times are also possible alongside a DimShift function which allows colours to follow the Planck curve on dimming.

Visit Robert Juliat on the Total Solution Marketing booth, H06

AV Stumpfl meets the demands of live events

AV STUMPFL has released its PIXERA Four media server, while also taking the wraps off the AnyShape projection screen system.

PIXERA four is the latest addition to the PIXERA product portfolio media server and is intended for highly demanding live event real-time graphics applications and XR/AR broadcast setups. The system offers flexible and reliable playback options for real-time compositing, and includes 12G-SDI I/O support, a 10GB/s default data read rate and five PCI 4.0 slots.

The integration of real-time tools like Unreal and Notch on the PIXERA software side led the manufacturer to offer its customers even more powerful and flexible hardware to deal with 4K and 8K content. PIXERA four completes AV Stumpfl’s product portfolio

An AMD Performance CPU with 128GB RAM is part of the new PIXERA four hardware, which reportedly allows PIXERA users to flexibly use 8K 10-bit content at 60fps without any hassle.

AnyShape allows for the custom production of mobile projection screens with nonstandard frame shapes, such as circles, rounded edges and semi-circles. Until now, customers needed to use masking if they wanted to only use a particular part of a rectangular projection screen’s surface. AnyShape offers a way of ordering a custombuilt projection screen with a variety of different frame shapes, straight from the factory.

Biamp closes in on the room at the top

DESIGNED FOR small/ medium-sized rooms and huddle spaces, Biamp has expanded its portfolio of audiovisual solutions with the introduction of the Vidi 150 conferencing camera. The Vidi 150 comprises the same features as the Vidi 100 including a 4K camera with a 120° field of view, an 8MP sensor and a built-in microphone array. Added features include manual electronic PTZ (ePTZ) with user-definable presets, automatic participant framing and ePTZ, all of which can be controlled with an included remote. Joining the premium Vidi 250 conferencing camera with a 12MP sensor, the latest Vidi introductions create a complete line of professional-grade cameras. Advanced features include optics that eliminate image distortion, smooth automatic participant framing, zoom and focus functionality.

Four of Biamp’s conference room audio solutions have been certified for Microsoft Teams Rooms. The bundles contain a TesiraFORTÉ X or Devio SCX processor, Parlé Beamtracking ceiling microphones, Desono C-IC6 ceiling loudspeakers and PoE-powered

amplifiers, in addition to mounting accessories and category cabling to complete the installation.  With each bundle, automated system deployment and configuration is made possible by Biamp Launch. This identifies and configures every device in the system, performs a tuning cycle, measures acoustic characteristics of the room, applies recommended signal processing, cancellation, tuning, noise Microsoft Teams

Rooms settings, before generating a dashboard highlighting performance settings before and after optimisation.

Visit Biamp on booth C11

Visit AV Stumpfl on the Total Solution

Sully 4C

PIXERA Four

Vidi 150

Vari-Lite announces large-scale, IP-ratedluminaire

DESIGNED TO withstand inclement weather, yet with weight and size comparable with similar non-weatherproof fixtures, the VL3600 Profile IP comes with a 1,000W monochromatic light engine producing 85,000 source lumens. Thanks to a CMY+CTO colour wheel mixing system, the fixture produces a wide range of rich colours while eliminating the appearance of blades in the lens, improving direct view applications. With dedicated CRI boost and colour correction filters, colours are said to render beautifully onstage or on camera.

The IP65-rated fixture has been created so that designers no longer need to choose between lighter, non-weatherised fixtures or heavier IP-rated ones, reducing the budget and environmental impact of event or installation. The VL3600 Profile

IP includes the manufacturer’s VL*FX animation wheel, as well as gobo wheels, a dual prism and frost, framing system, iris, zoom and focus. The lighter weight and V*Track Calibration System are said to reduce tension in the suspension and address the “swing after startup” issue.

Visit Vari-Lite on the Total Solution Marketing booth, H06

Product Highlights

Barix tackles phone-based paging for legacy analogue intercom

BARIX HAS bridged the gap between smartphones and existing analogue paging installations while also bringing mobile, zone-based paging to its IC Paging platform. The Paging Gateway M400 lets users send paging announcements from Android or iOS mobile phones or from any computer on the local network –performed through a web browser and without the need for a dedicated app.

while password-protected access ensures only authorised users can page.

Paging Gateway M400

For simplicity, a user can drop a browser shortcut button onto their phone’s home screen and then page with a simple click. Line-level, analogue audio output from the Paging Gateway M400 hardware can be routed to existing paging and PA amplifiers,

Beyond the benefits of the device for analogue-based systems, the hardware can also extend Barix’s IC Paging platform, an IP-based paging and two-way intercom solution for delivering highquality audio over existing IT infrastructure without a server or matrix. Once again, paging is performed via a web browser. The user selects the desired zones to be paged into and IC Paging automatically routes the announcements to the right speakers or zone amplifiers.

Visit Barix on the Fuzion Far East booth, E05

Product Highlights

Shure brings new flagship to Microflex Advance

SHURE HAS added a new flagship ceiling mic array to its series of Microflex Advance networked array microphones. Describing its launch as ushering in a new era, the MXA920 features Automatic Coverage technology that provides pre-configured audio capture with minimal setup and also employs Next Generation Array Architecture for enhanced directional pickup and more natural speech. Plus, the onboard IntelliMix DSP delivers noise and echofree performance as well as audio clarity and intelligibility for AV conferencing across room types such as executive boardrooms, higher education hybrid classrooms, corporate and government meeting spaces. Two form factors (Square and Round) support design integration.

The MXA920 is certified for Microsoft Teams when used with the IntelliMix P300 DSP and Microflex MXN5C networked loudspeaker. Available models include Square (white only) or Round (white, black or aluminium) options that are all paintable to match the room’s décor.

configurations make it possible to integrate the MXA920 into formal conference rooms or modern spaces where architecture makes a statement.

The microphone manufacturer has also recently introduced the SBC210LM, a portable, standalone charging housing compatible with its SBM910, SBM920, SBM910M and SBCAX battery charging modules. Ideal for location sound and mobile broadcasting, it can also be used as an accessory for nearly all Axient Digital users who find themselves working on-the-go, including, but not limited to, those leveraging the portable capabilities of the ADX5D.

Haivision unveils new brand identity

HAIVISION HAS announced a new brand identity and strategic direction reflecting its involvement in missioncritical live video solutions. This new chapter for the company is the culmination of strategic innovation and acquisitions to better position itself for the future. As part of this announcement, the manufacturer has released its next-generation broadcast cloud technology, Haivision Hub MCR. The solution is described as an easy-to-use cloud solution for remotely managing video transmitters, video encoders, receivers, users and streams from a single browser window. Haivision Hub MCR is designed to complement the Haivision Hub feature set with simplified cloudbased management of wireless transmitters and mobile contribution workflows, making it easier for broadcasters to manage any geographically distributed event from anywhere.

for receiving IP video streams over mobile networks and the internet. StreamHub can receive and decode live SST streams from Haivision Pro and Air mobile transmitters and Haivision Rack encoders, and SRT streams from Haivision encoders and third-party sources. StreamHub can also receive livestreams from MoJoPro and LiveGuest.

By enabling device and livestream monitoring, easy pairing, configuration and control, Haivision Hub MCR is said to simplify master control room operations by providing comprehensive oversight and management of multiple concurrent contribution workflows in live broadcast, remote and cloud productions. The platform requires no installation, provides scalability and is suitable for decentralised remote production.

Neat pioneers video for Zoom and Teams

NORWEGIAN MANUFACTURER Neat will be highlighting its Neat Board at InfoComm SEA. Winner of two Red Dot awards in 2021, the Neat Board features a 65-inch multitouch screen, a powerful audio system and versatile wide-angle camera to deliver the best “in the room” collaboration experience. Extra operational elements include integrated annotation features and whiteboard note-taking, with outputs that can be shared wirelessly with different users.

Also on display will be the Neat Bar and Neat Bar Pro. The Neat Bar is a compact video bar that is suitable for smaller meetings of less than 10 people. Working with one or two monitors as well as the dynamic touchscreen Neat Pad, the Neat Bar functions as a meeting unit with high-quality audio and video. The Neat Bar Pro is capable of powering the ultimate immersive video experience on up to three large monitors. The setup includes two extreme resolution cameras and an

advanced image depth sensor, which, in combination, deliver 16x zoom, providing easy viewing of both people and content for everyone in the audience, regardless of the room size.

The Neat Frame is described as a unique portrait-oriented videoconferencing device with an eye-level camera that allows for more “natural” conversations between meeting participants. A Red Dot Best of the Best award winner for 2022, the Neat Frame has an intuitive user interface that delivers an improved user experience through advanced onscreen arrangement of people and content, and sophisticated sound technology that cancels out background noise.

All Neat devices incorporate Neat Symmetry, Neat Boundary and Neat Sense technologies.

Visit Neat on booth G09

Visit Shure

Central to the Haivision Hub MCR workflow is Haivision StreamHub, a solution (typically deployed on-premise)

Visit Haivision on the Midwich booth, H09

Haivision Hub MCR

Product Highlights

Wireless lighting from Astera

THE HYDRAPANEL wireless LED from Astera featuring the manufacturer’s Titan LED engine has an inbuilt battery and wireless DMX module for flexibility in a variety of settings. The six-panel, 600g unit is IP65-rated and can also be used in wired installations, with each HydraPanel emitting 1,300 lumens of high-quality light, giving 515 lux at 1m (without filter) and high CRI and TLCI values. Accessories include a ConnectorPlate which connects two HydraPanels together, and up to four panels can be joined using three ConnectorPlates to create a medium-sized panel that the manufacturer describes as “compact, lightweight and manoeuvrable”.

LiOS2 upgrade promises better workflows

already known from SkyPanel.

ARRI’S ORBITER LiOS2 software update for the Orbiter LED luminaire aids synergy between cameras and lighting by incorporating three new operation modes – Sync Mode, Cue Mode and Optics Audio Adjust Mode. The three new modes establish new possibilities for crews to work and cooperate both faster and smarter.

The first of the three modes, Sync Mode, allows the lighting parameters to be enabled or changed in sync with the camera frames – frame brightness or CCT range can be changed to accommodate new creative ideas. Exact timing is key for capturing dynamic images and Cue Mode enables precise lighting control on the spot. Besides variable timing and working options, the new Cue Mode even allows for fluid and easy light changes in different lighting modes. The transition can be selected from five different options,

The Optics Auto Adjust Mode offers colour stability with any optic and any focus. Utilising the accessory recognition of Orbiter’s QLM (Quick 2 Lighting Mount), the ARRI Spectra light engine is modified to maintain the maximum colour stability no matter which configuration is used, including textiles such as Softboxes or Domes, a reflector in Open Face or lenses such as the new Orbiter Fresnel Lens. Also, with the Fresnel Lens, LiOS2 ensures the colour rendition across its entire zoom range. This gives the camera crew time to focus on other important settings. Network and remote control are becoming essential on more and more productions and the new DMX Mode Spec V5 allows for more convenient network operation and additional features within the LiOS2 update. For example, the zoom range of the Orbiter Fresnel Lens can be operated, allowing for Extended Colour Control (ECC). All elements are also addressable via RDM.

Visit ARRI on the Total Solution Marketing booth, H06

Like Astera’s PixelBrick, power and data are delivered via PowerBox 2x 86W devices and, for larger setups, eight HydraPanels can be connected to the PowerBox via Power/Data combination cables, making the LED suitable for more dramatic effects for stages, festivals and events. Once arrayed, IR communication between HydraPanels enables multiple units to be controlled from a single console or controller for continuity of parameters such as colour and brightness. For quick and easy rigging, the back side of the fixture is magnetic and can be deployed without needing any other mounting accessories.

Visit Astera on the Total Solution Marketing booth, H06

ZeeVee unveils ZyPer4K encoders and decoders

THE ZYPER4K-XR and ZyPer4K-XS from ZeeVee allow for the distribution and switching of uncompressed 720p, 1080p HD, Ultra HD and 4K resolution content, audio and control via off-theshelf 10Gb Ethernet switches. Their IP-based architecture enables the switching from one source to another without any frame loss – even at 4K resolutions. Both units offer a 1GB utility port and USB human interface device class (USB HID) support for devices such as keyboards, mice, game controllers and alphanumeric displays.

In other news, the latest version of the manufacturer’s ZyPer Management Platform has been unveiled and is said to bring advanced multiview, preset and grid features, along with other control features, which offer enhanced functionality and user experience. It has been designed to control the company’s ZyPer4K (SDVoE, uncompressed 4K, 10Gbps) and ZyPerUHD (JPEG2000, compressed, 1Gbps) AVoIP encoders and decoders. The onscreen interface enables the simple drag-and-drop creation of multiviews from up to 19 sources and

ZyPer4K-XR and XyPer4K-XS include built-in support for energy-efficient 10Gbps PoE, enabling the delivery of both data and power on an IP network over Ethernet cables. Fanless thermal management keeps the units from overheating without generating distracting sound.

mounted unit’s browser-based graphical user interface allows installers to easily configure the unit and it supports DHCP and static IP addresses. It also enables individual button configuration via a simple-to-use web user interface.

Visit ZeeVee on booth Z11

Datapath capture card brings SDVoE’s vision into view

DATAPATH HAS a new dedicated SDVoE capture card for real-time applications that meets the SDVoE Alliance’s parameters for minimum latency and high-quality resolution. The VisionSC-S2 ensures compatibility with the alliance’s broad range of multi-manufacturer hardware solutions that provide networked video to the highest standards.

With 4K/60 capability, the VisionSC-S2 card delivers an important part of the networked video mix. The SDVoE Alliance provides a flexible way to route signals in high-end installations, but not all streams end up directly on a screen. They often

encoding. With Datapath’s dedicated SDVoE capture hardware, enough PCIe bandwidth is provided to transfer the full quality available in the SDVoE feed into an application, and with minimum added latency to ensure the end-to-end solution is fit for real-time applications. Furthermore, SDVoE technology is ideal for routing to media servers for long-distance, real-time signal processing where minimum latency is crucial.

Product Highlights

Maverick Storm warning from Chauvet

ADDING TO its catalogue of all-weather fixtures, Chauvet Professional has developed a range of IP65-rated moving heads in the form of Maverick Storm 2 BeamWash, Maverick Storm 4 Profile and Maverick Storm 2 Profile.

Promoting its use for stadium and amphitheatre applications, the Maverick Storm 2 BeamWash is characterised by its bright output of almost 10,000 lumens. The 18kg fixture features 19 50W RGBW LEDs in its centre pixel array and an outer ring of 0.2W RGB LEDs. The wide zoom range from 3.6–53.4° can create a multitude of designs from tight aerial beams to wide washes. The versatility of the BeamWash is enhanced with a pixel-mappable 12-zone RGB LED outer ring that offers individual pixel control. Positioned under a stealth filter, the outer ring is easier to incorporate into a wide range of designs. Built-in foreground and background LED macros facilitate the creation of pixel-mapped

effects. Smooth fades result from its 16-bit dimming, and six distinct dimming modes and the fixture’s user-selectable 7,500K calibrated white together with the pan and tilt movements add further creative possibilities.

need

into PC-based video controllers for

Visit Datapath on the Midwich booth, H09

Visit Chauvet Professional on the Total

Maverick Storm 2 BeamWash

and the

Visit

Product Highlights

Blustream releases advanced distribution solutions

BLUSTREAM’S VIDEO-OVER-IP line is led by the SDVoE IP500UHD-TZ 4K multicast UHD transceiver and ACM500 control module for delivering 4K 60Hz, 4:4:4 video with zero-latency bidirectional 1Gb Ethernet pass-through. The IP500UHD-TZ is suitable for 18Gbps HDMI installations where multiple transceivers can be combined with one or more 10GbE copper/fibre switches to form a distributed video matrix, multi-viewer or videowall system. The ACM500 builds on the Blustream ACM line to deliver configuration, control and

A Diamond+ shines for VITEC

DESIGNED FOR A WIDE RANGE OF CONTRIBUTION or point-to-point streaming applications over IP within production studios, broadcast facilities or corporate server rooms, VITEC has unveiled the MGW Diamond+ OG encoder. The 4K/multichannel HEVC, H.264 and MPEG-2 encoder comes in an openGear (OG) card format. Promoting easy integration and robust streaming, typical applications for the MGW Diamond+ OG include site-to-site primary distribution, remote production over unconstrained networks and remote/at-home production over the internet/ REMI in addition to standard IPTV distribution. Featuring UHD and HDR support, Diamond+ OG can capture and

Taiden takes a new direction

TAIDEN HAS HCL-804A controllable column loudspeaker together with 404 Series and 210B Series loudspeaker/ subwoofer combination loudspeakers.

controllable directivity column loudspeaker that features eight 4-inch midrange units and 24 ¾-inch tweeters. A built-in multichannel DSP engine and high-performance Class-D digital amplifier can control each individual array element with precision in a programmable manner. It can be divided into two independent beams for control and adjustment, providing simultaneous input of analogue and AES/EBU digital audio signals to achieve a hot backup. Loudspeaker setting and monitoring are all carried over standard Ethernet. The speaker can also be paired with a subwoofer to complement low-end output as required.

Visit Taiden on the Fuzion Far East booth,

stream 4K60p from either of its four 3G-SDI or 12G-SDI inputs or a soon-to-be-released SMPTE 2110 input (over 25Gbit SFP interface). The card supports 4:2:2 10-bit encoding, multichannel audio encoding as well as Zixi, SRT, RIST and Pro-MPEG transport protection technology for reliable video and audio transmission.

With an increasing number of video feeds being streamed live over various IP transmission links, ChannelLink enables delivery of IP content anywhere using legacy baseband video matrices. ChannelLink acts as a central hub where IP channels from the field can be reliably received and retransmitted live, acting as an

monitoring of the Blustream SDVoE 10GbE multicast system and drag-and-drop source selection and video preview.

The Contractor Series IP50HD is a flexible 1080p transmitter and receiver pair, suitable for a range of applications requiring robust HD video-over-IP support, such as command and control rooms, digital signage and workstation management installations.

efficient gateway across any IP network.

Suited towards stream management, routing, rebroadcasting or IPTV stream reflection over WAN/internet, ChannelLink also simplifies content delivery of live channels.

PPDS updates its X-Line

addition of six direct LED backlight models equipped with a range of updated features

Developed with retail in mind, the X-Line quality, 500cd/m² brightness, a finishing

dynamic, white or black, and come with enhanced 700cd/m2 brightness. The BDL8007X/00 also features energysaving automatic backlight control, helping reduce running costs for a lower cost of ownership, while also aligning with sustainability goals.

bezel), 55-inch BDL4107X/00 (1.78mm (0.99mm bezel) variants. They have been created to support any content, static or

Featuring a higher-performance 4K display (3840x2160), the BDL6005X/00 model is designed for 24/7 operation and can be fully customised to fit customers’ exact needs and requirements. The 65-inch variant can show content from multiple sources in real time, with enhanced UHD picture quality. It is fully calibrated to embrace white backgrounds and provides 500cd/m² brightness.

Visit PPDS on booth C10

Visit Blustream on the Fuzion Far East booth, E05

Visit VITEC on

Philips X-Line in a control room

NOTE: DRAWING NOT TO SCALE. FOR ILLUSTRATION

A

Tony Oates, Fuzion Far East

we saw a massive increase in our retail brand business due to all the “at-home” activities. That has slowed down a bit as we get back to “normal”. The project (solutions) business remained strong through 2020 but collapsed in 2021 due to build schedules being deferred. This year, it has come back with a vengeance. The entertainment and production business stopped entirely until the beginning of this year yet also returned with somewhat of a bang.

What are the most pressing challenges facing your target markets?

Some of our suppliers wanted to exhibit at IFSEA, so Fuzion Far East is participating in conjunction with them. Fuzion’s prime country of interest in this region is Thailand and, in my opinion, the 2019 exhibition failed to attract enough local visitors. Our company does conduct some business in Burma, Cambodia and Laos, but it is minimal. Our suppliers are obviously interested in Southeast Asia as a whole and

tradeshows again following Covid.

I suspect that a lot of what we have gone through is very similar to the global pattern, with a couple of twists. On the upside,

Unfortunately, the hardware left unused for long periods of time developed many problems owing to the heat and humidity coupled with rampant rodent and insect infestations. We requested all our clients to check their systems before turning them on for the first time after such a long shutdown, but many didn’t and, in several cases, this caused subsequent failures. Further challenges have been added with the continued supply problems exacerbating stock issues. It’s going to take time as some entertainment venues have not reopened and production opportunities remain thin on the ground. None of our staff left the company during Covid and, in fact, and we have now increased the size of the Fuzion team.

The continued lack of several key hardware items in the supply chain is causing many problems in terms of sales and servicing existing clients. Freight continues to be incredibly expensive – and slow – but the situation should improve in 2023. A specific issue related to Thai business is the government’s fiddling with product categories and duties whereby the line between professional and consumer products is being drawn. However, it is being bizarrely executed and causing most importers major headaches. For instance, we were recently advised that any product with an HDMI connector is imposed with a 20% import duty rather than the previous 10%. With the strong US dollar, this added tax increases the landed cost of a product significantly and is impossible to pass on to the customer. We continue to negotiate these cases, but these variables may become the norm with more surprises in the future. Uncertainty is never good in business.

The brands we are exhibiting together with at InfoComm SEA are Blustream, NEXO, Quest, Vaddio, DiGiCo, JTS, Barix, LEA Professional and Taiden.

If this is your first in-person show this decade, why did you select IFSEA?

What aspects of your business have changed the most since 2019?

Exhibitor Profile

What aspects of your business have changed the most since 2019?

Ideal Systems has been busy, and our pro AV and LED wall business is growing from strength to strength. Since the onset of Covid-19, Ideal Systems has become the leading NDI integrator in APAC and a key driver in the new wave of videoconference technology for the SME sector. As there is a lot to discuss here, let me focus on our SME videoconferencing with MAXHUB and DTEN.

GYGAR

HISENSE

https://commercial-display.

A lot has changed since the last InfoComm show was held in Thailand in 2019. The world has changed, business has changed and people have changed. To say Covid-19 hit business in Asia very hard is an understatement. The travel restrictions, workplace restrictions and supply chain restrictions have fundamentally changed how many businesses in APAC operate, and changed people’s attitude to work and companies’ attitude to workers too. Before Covid, meeting room professional-

grade videoconferencing systems were mainly used by large corporates, and government, with the SME business sector getting by with Skype on a PC or laptop. These SME Skype calls were bumpy at best and rarely used for group videocalls. Zoom, with its better quality and ease of use, was supercharged by Covid, and crashed into the professionalgrade videoconferencing market like a flaming Lamborghini into a fireworks factory and nothing has been the same

Before Covid, the companies with videoconferencing systems like WebEx and Polycom were big enough to have office IT admins who would set up and manage the videoconferencing systems, with separate speakers, microphones and cameras all cabled up and optimised for each different shape and size of meeting room. Purchasing was expensive, setup and configuration were a science and useability was complex. When Covid came, and business travel stopped, many workers stopped coming to the office, the requirement for robust and easy-to-use video communication catapulted the word Zoom and Teams into the business lexicon. With simpleto-use, all-in-one display screens, fitted with internal speakers, microphones

and cameras, like MAXHUB and DTEN that support Teams and Zoom with added benefits of being touchscreen, wireless sharing meant that not only were they easier to buy, install and use, they were a de facto one-size-fits-all for meeting rooms holding up to 12 people – size that is generally sufficient for most SMEs. Covid-19 changed the SME meeting room forever – by adding a single all-in-one display, the meeting room was suddenly a videoconference room, with no need for a projector, HDMI cables, connectors, microphones, speakers, cameras and, indeed, no need for a whiteboard. Not only were the all-in-one displays easier to use, because of Zoom, they were cheaper, as well as easier and quicker to install and maintain.

Sure, there are still bigger board rooms that need more elaborate videoconferencing solutions, but SMEs now represent a much larger market by installing all-in-one devices in a similar way to the proliferation of fax machines in the 1990s. When a technology is cheaper and easier to use than its predecessor, it will succeed, especially in Asia, where cost is king. Videoconferencing is the new

machine.

Exhibitor Profile

What is your focus at this year’s exhibition?

Although this is our first in-person tradeshow since InfoComm SEA in May 2019, Epson has organised local events including workshops, seminars and demonstrations. Our booth is the largest on this year’s InfoComm SEA show floor and, as such, we will be promoting a large range of our latest visual solutions to visitors.

Epson recently launched the highbrightness EB-PU2200 Series of 3LCD projectors offering 13k, 16k and 20k lumens

brightness output. We’re showcasing these models to highlight the compact form factor, low weight and more sustainable features. To the best of our knowledge, the EB-PU2220B is also the world’s smallest and lightest 3LCD projector in the market to date. Compared to its predecessor, the EB-PU2220B outputs 20,000 lumens but is 64% smaller, offering more flexibility in terms of installations and usage. Due to its high output, we are targeting big auditoriums and large lecture theatres in educational and corporate facilities in addition to events and rental application.

In terms of themes, we are promoting how Epson is dedicated to serving the growing hybrid workplace. As such, we’re conducting a virtual tour as some people remain uncomfortable travelling to exhibitions. One of the main concepts Epson will be driving at this show, which is in line with our overall company strategy, is sustainability: less power consumption, space saving and fewer heat emissions. All our projector packaging uses 80% recycled cardboard and we have reduced our use of print materials, such as brochures or leaflets at the show. We will be utilising QR codes for users to get more information about the products. Additionally, Epson will be showcasing how retail spaces can utilise technology to achieve sustainable displays. One of our largest projector manufacturing plants in the Philippines is using 100% renewable energy.

What aspects of your business have changed the most in the last three years?

Many businesses quickly shifted into digitalisation by pushing out more digital content, especially on social media. The pandemic accelerated digitalisation by 10 years, and we even approve processes and demonstrate products on video format today.

A few years ago, videoconferencing was not so common and only taken up internally by tech-savvy employees, but all of Epson’s employees are now conducting video calls every day. The virtual tour on our booth is an example of how we are incorporating virtual elements into our business.

Working with our partners, we have set up a space where designers can showcase their exhibitions using our mapping software and transmitting it live for viewers watching YouTube. Nothing can replicate that live feeling, but our customers are now demanding in-person and virtual events to run simultaneously, which expands the audience potential.

What trends do you expect to emerge at InfoComm SEA?

Increasingly larger displays, immersive experiences and hybrid applications, all of which require more visual content. We are also expecting to see more LED walls and audio vendors in the show.

Greatest visual breakthrough in the past decade?

Probably 4K technology where it has gradually become a norm instead of 1080p.

What aspects of your

A Q A

Montse Romero, Booth H01

QWhat is your focus at this year’s exhibition?

AWe believe that meeting spaces are more important than ever. Meeting spaces should provide unique and personalised inspiring experiences to help make the best decisions while enhancing creativity.

A

Tan Hui Ming, Bose Southeast Asia

What aspects of your business have changed the most since 2019?

The Unified Communications market has grown exponentially in the SEA markets in the last two years. We launched the Bose Videobar VB-1 in early 2020 and this has been certified by the major Unified Communications platforms including Zoom and Microsoft Teams, allowing Bose to venture into larger meeting spaces, town hall spaces and a wider range of commercial installations.

Collaborations are accelerating digital transformation and helping producers expand or infiltrate into new markets. We’ve also created the ES1 System by combining our EdgeMax or DesignMax ceiling speakers, ControlSpace EX-440C

DSP and PowerSpace P2600A amplifier with Sennheiser’s TeamConnect Ceiling 2 microphone, meaning we have been jointly offering an in-ceiling unified communications platform for larger meeting spaces such as boardrooms since 2020.

What is your focus at this year’s exhibition?

A primary focus is the Bose Work portfolio. With the recent addition of the compact Videobar VB-S that was introduced at InfoComm in Las Vegas in June, Bose is entering collaboration spaces, including multipurpose rooms and huddle spaces, which are now being used for different purposes on an hourly basis. As a result, our clients are demanding more efficient spaces.

Q AThe VB-S is packed with features including higher-specification microprocessors, a sharper camera and updated firmware. It is similar in width to an iPad Pro and you can attach a tripod to the bottom of the unit. It’s very portable and is ideal for bloggers or anyone wishing to host a temporary meeting space with more than one person on the call, without having to all huddle around a mobile phone or laptop.

The exhibition in Bangkok serves as an opportunity to showcase the latest products to our Southeast Asian partners as few had the opportunity to travel to ISE or InfoComm. Together with Intel, Lenovo and Barco, Bose will showcase a couple of collaborative projects that we are jointly working on.

Over the past two years, Bose has also extended the Installed Sound portfolio, including several amplifiers and loudspeakers. Together with our FreeSpace systems, we will also be showcasing our latest pendant, surface and ceiling speakers in the DesignMax range.

The priority for us is to really reconnect with our customers in the region, so we have organised a series of networking events with other regional Bose distributors, dealers and primary customers. Our Thai distributor of 50 years, the Asavasopon Company, is managing the exhibition and we will tour the Chonburi Stadium, which was recently installed with Dante networkable amplifiers, DSPs and ArenaMatch loudspeakers.

Currently, the trends are on optimum collaborations, best experiences and price performance. Unified communications are here to stay, and a lot of new technology is focused on the normalisation of hybrid working and learning education.

Smart building technology is growing and incorporates automation such as occupancy sensors to ensure that the spaces are optimised and offer a snapshot of whether meeting rooms are occupied using room booking systems.

Another big change we have witnessed is clinics and hospitals practising digital healthcare with online consultations and remote diagnostics. Naturally, this is becoming an emerging market sector for our VB-1 and VB-S Videobars. With the support of third-party software, the patient would be able to dial into a videocall and discuss their condition with a doctor who controls, zooms in, tilts and pans an HD camera. Several questions later, the patient receives a prescription e-mail, and the medicines are delivered without having to wait, travel or stand in a queue.

Favourite three-letter acronym

I personally don’t have one, but my boss loves ABC (Always Be Closing).

What trends or themes do you expect to dominate or emerge at this year’s InfoComm SEA?

A

A

Exhibitor Profile

Q A Q A

QSean Tobin, Midwich Asia Booth H09

What is your focus at this year’s exhibition?

The Midwich Asia team’s focus at this year’s InfoComm SEA will be increasing

What is your focus at this year’s exhibition?

As meetings continue to evolve in today’s hybrid workforce, the desire for a complete AV conferencing solution that sounds great and is user-friendly has never been in more demand. At IFSEA 2022, Shure will be showcasing its Microflex product line with a focus on the newly launched MXA920 Ceiling Array Microphone, as well as our Stem Ecosystem. The MXA920 offers Automatic Coverage technology which provides pre-configured audio capture with minimal setup required,

dramatically reducing the time and cost of deployments for integrators. It also employs the Next Generation Array Architecture for enhanced directional pickup and more natural speech. Plus, the onboard IntelliMix DSP delivers noise and echo-free performance as well as unprecedented audio clarity and intelligibility for AV conferencing.

Together, Shure’s Stem Ecosystem and Microflex Ecosystem solutions offer customers a choice of complete audio systems for a best-in-class experience for any meeting without compromising on performance or ease of deployment. Along with that, we will also be launching

Q Aon the latest technologies within the AV/

business have changed the

Midwich Asia entered the southeast Asia region in early 2019. Our rapid growth

during the following yet challenging years relating to the Covid-19 pandemic can be attributed to our links with worldwide vendor partners. As a true global AV distributor partner, Midwich Asia aligned its go-to-market strategies in advance of the pandemic.

As the southeast Asia region continues to mature, leading vendors are increasingly recognising the added value that partnerships with a dedicated commercial AV specialist distribution partner brings to their customers.

Now we are in the post-Covid pandemic phase, the ongoing challenge remains stock supply and logistic constraints. As a true distributor in the region, Midwich Asia is assisting our valued vendor partners by providing support to the growing customer base, with regional pre-sale and post-sale support, along with local warehousing and logistic expertise.

our new AD600 Axient Digital Spectrum Manager, a powerful, next-generation tool for planning and managing frequency coordination in the most demanding professional audio applications, including touring, broadcast, location sound, theatre and houses of worship.

What aspects of your business have changed the most since 2019?

During the pandemic and even as we come out of it, the way we work will certainly not be the same as we used to know it. A new breed of hybrid event is also emerging. It’s one in which some participants are beginning to attend again in-person, while others are joining virtually from home or office locations. With that, audio becomes increasingly important as the need to engage audiences becomes essential, be it in livestreaming, webinars or virtual conferences. We see growing demand for audio equipment that aids content creators in their work to teachers delivering online lessons and professionals working from home. And as the workforce gradually returns to offices, we are beginning to see a trend for more fluid workspaces. This means that audio conferencing solutions will also need

to be scalable, offering more flexibility and consistency as rooms are combined into town halls or reconfigured in shorter work cycles. Good audio coverage/pickup are also gaining importance in product development to factor in a more socially distanced seating arrangements around the worktable.

What are the most pressing challenges facing your target markets?

Now more than ever, we’re seeing our customers require solutions that capture the voice naturally, fitting beautifully into a room’s aesthetic, contactless devices and making it effortless to connect participants – no matter where they are. These modern and evolving demands are met by both the Microflex and Stem Ecosystem solutions, ensuring easy deployment and clear audio capture. As simplified and intuitive technology is essential for workplace collaboration, we are also working towards having our products certified, in addition to being compatible with major meeting platforms and third-party integration, such as camera tracking, for a more seamless meeting experience.

SAID

NO PROBLEM”

THEY HEARD “OH NO”