Essential Install - February 2014 issue by Essential Install

EssentialINSTALL MAGAZINE

The essential magazine for the custom install industry

February 2014 issue

IC REALTIME PUTS THE ‘EYE’ IN IP TOP RANKING CCTV BRAND BLENDS HIGH PERFORMANCE WITH THE POWER TO INTEGRATE...

DOWNLOAD THE FREE ESSENTIAL INSTALL APP ON ALL APPLE AND ANDROID DEVICES NOW!

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for YoUr frEE coPY of tHiS BrocHUrE caLL 01279 501111

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PROFESSIONAL

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QED Professional is a range of high quality cables and accessories designed to give the same performance and value as our award winning domestic QEd Hi-fi cables. all our cables are certified to meet the highest installation and 'new build' industry standards, ensuring better reliability and higher performance to both the installer and consumer. all our cables and connectors are held in high inventory within the UK and benefit from next working day delivery on orders made before 2pm. to order or for more details, please visit www.qed.co.uk

QX16/2 and QX16/4 PE // OutdOOr BuriaBle Speaker CaBle n E w QX16/2 and QX16/4 PE these are high performance and exceptional quality installation speaker cables with a water and Uv resistant PE outer sheath. they are designed to deliver excellent levels of performance in most outdoor installations with no additional conduit required.

PErformancE activE Hdmi // hdmi CaBle n E w Performance Active HDMI

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ACTIVE FILTER R TECHNOLOGY

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the QEd Hdmi cable is specifically designed to work with modern high performance projectors or display screens at high speed up to 15m. to do this it incorporates the latest active filter technology, which means the cable can be readily installed within walls or ceilings without the need for any extra power supplies or bulky electronics.

cat6 UtP & ftP ScrEEnEd // Cat6 CaBle n E w QXCAT6 UTP

available in grey, red, blue and green

the cat6 UtP range of high performance network cables with a flame retardant Pvc outer sheath is available in 4 different colours. Each cable is designed to cope with demanding distribution applications over UtP. they transport high bandwidth control, Ethernet and Hdmi 1080p signals to multiple displays over distances up to 100m with performance up to 250mHz. Suitable for HdBasetâ&#x201E;˘ applications.

n E w QXCAT6 FTP Screened Get all the features of QXcat6 UtP with the addition of an aluminium mylar screen for excellent noise rejection.

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WyreStorm Total HD Distribution Solutions Combine a WyreStorm Pro Plus matrix with the award-winning HDBaseT AMP-001-010 to create a powerful, scalable distribution system capable of driving both digital and analogue media to any zone, all using a single Cat5e/6 to each room.

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Essential Contents

EssentialINSTALL MAGAZINE

The essential magazine for the custom install industry

February 2014 issue

IC REALTIME PUTS THE ‘EYE’ IN IP TOP RANKING CCTV BRAND BLENDS HIGH PERFORMANCE WITH THE POWER TO INTEGRATE...

FEBRUARY 2014 DOWNLOAD THE FREE ESSENTIAL INSTALL APP ON ALL APPLE AND ANDROID DEVICES NOW! Habitech Cover.indd 1

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in this issue...

Regulars 7 From the Editor’s Desk The biggest news in the history of Essential Install!

9 Essential News

Take the temperature of the CI sector

17 #LiveInstall Latest

News from the coal-face of the install industry

38 Step by Step from Pulse

How this distributor adds value to every install

41 Case Study: Hobbs Pit: Pixels

Norman Garland, company MD, tells EI a horror story

44 Essential Artcoustic

Kim Donvig, company CEO, takes time for a Q&A

Asheridge

Essential Lighting

46 Essential RGB Communications The power of Pakedge and Savant combine

32 Day in the Life

Pip Evans of NV Integration takes time out to speak to EI

63 Essential Training

Head for success with our training guide

66 Essential Products A pick of perfect product partners

48 Essential HVAC

The highs and lows of environmental control

54 Auro 3D

The future of cinema sound?

55 Asheridge Communications: MoCa Innovative networking

Features 18 AWE and URC Take Amsterdam

57 Essential Lighting

Illuminating the way to successful projects

Control platform makes big impact at the ISE

20 Habitech Takes Time

Average nett circulation April 2013 to June 2013

Focus on how IC Realtime cameras take security to the next level

23 Essential ISE Review

5,489

The biggest and best review of this CI showcase

Atlona solutions are specifically designed for today’s environments that depend on connectivity, advanced signal routing and content sharing.

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Whole Home Media Distribution

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Home Theatre Design

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AV Downmixing

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TrueColours/Midwich Home Esse Trim Size – 380mm

Essential Contents

Essential Products

Essential HVAC

Day in the Life

Auro 3D

Case Study

Complete End-to-End AV Distribution Solutions Atlona AV Distribution Solutions Feature •

Full line of transmitters, receivers, switchers and wall plates

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PALLADIO LU X U RY C I N E M A S E AT I N G

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From the

Editor’s Desk The biggest news in the history of Essential Install! Major Expansion and Move into Europe Announced! EI is delighted to announce some absolutely massive news for the CI industry! The Essential Install stable of products including all magazines and shows are now part of new pan European publishing house called All Things Media (ATM). This new company is a partnership between the EI group of products and EH Publishing, Stateside heavy hitters in the AV and CI worlds and owners of the hugely powerful brands CE-Pro and Commercial Integrator. Months in the planning, this new venture has been carefully constructed to provide the Essential Install brand the platform needed to penetrate the European market as well as raising its game in the UK. The deal will also see the arrival of the CE-Pro and Commercial Integrator brands into Europe for the very first time. The hugely exciting new entity will provide readers with loads more information in many different forms, online, in print, with live events and though social media to gather the information needed to be successful in the domestic and commercial custom install worlds. In turn, the industry will have a powerful new partner to reach a whole range of markets in a wide choice of ways, representing a publishing powerhouse never before seen in the European market. EH Publishing CEO, Ken Moyes, says: “We were looking for the right partner to make the move into the European market and have found the perfect match in the Essential team. Their experience and existing market presence gives us a great platform from which to further develop existing products and introduce Ce-Pro and Commercial Integrator to a European audience. We are really excited about the potential this new company offers the industry.” When the business plan for the Essential brand was formulated five years ago, the dream goal at the end of the first five years was to have the UK’s number one domestic install magazine, successful live events and be ready to expand into the commercial markets in the UK and across LL lINSMTAA GAZINE ia Europe. Well thanks to some long hours and the continued support of the t n e s s E industry, we are there and then some, with this hugely exciting new venture! IP ‘EYE’ IN TS THE TIME PU IC REAL Details of what form these new launches will take and how the Essential Install brand will expand in the coming months and years will be available very soon, so stay tuned for more information. If you have any questions at all, just give one the team a shout on the usual contacts. February

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There are more ways than ever to interact with EI so get in touch

Editor in chief: Daniel Sait, dan@essentialinstall.com advertisEment manager: Claire Talty, claire@essentialinstall.com Publisher: David Kitchener, david@essentialinstall.com head of production: Sam Broad, sam@essentialinstall.com Graphic design: Benjamin Bristow, ben@theessentialgroup.eu Accounts: susan@theessentialgroup.eu Circulation: susan@theessentialgroup.eu

Essential Install magazine, Suite 4, 6-8 Revenge Road, Lordswood, Chatham, Kent ME5 8UD. T: +44 (0)1634 673163 F: +44 (0)1634 673173 Whist we make every effort that everything printed in Essential Install magazine is factually correct, we cannot be held responsible if factual errors occur. All articles are copyright and remain the property of Essential Install magazine.

Essential Install

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Essential NEWS

News desk Piled high with custom install information RDI AND ASHERIDGE FOCUS ON EMERGING MARKETS

Equipment manufacturer Asheridge is the newest RDI recruit

RDI (Registered Digital Institute) has welcomed into its fold the well-established custom install equipment manufacturer and cable supplier Asheridge Communications. The RDI and Asheridge, part of the Teleste group, agreed a partnership would benefit the institute’s future connected home plans. These involve the promotion of custom install products direct to the institute database and RDI approved retailers. RDI chief executive officer Mike Davies said: “The RDI believes this tie in will directly benefit our members on training and development provision. It will also ensure members are kept at the forefront of emerging market and product news. “It’s important for the institute to move into new and emerging markets, particularly with the future of the connected home. Partnering the right companies will help not only our installation and retail members through the creation of a connected home pathway, but also the digital sector.” Asheridge sales director Jonathan Rigby said: “Effective and reliable delivery of high speed video and data in the house is becoming ever more important. The time is right for us to join forces and educate the UK market on the most effective solutions based on the equipment we already supply to domestic and commercial installers, Telco and FTTH operators across Europe.”

FOR yOUR free

qED pRO CablE bROCHURE Call 01279 501111 OrDEr CODE: ZB0268 L IONA S ESS CABLE F O PR ION QED ALLAT T S IN E1 ISSU

More information: Asheridge Communications +44 (0)1494 794770 www.ashcomms.com

AVNU ALLIANCE RECRUITS FIRST HOME AUTOMATION FIRM AVnu Alliance, the industry consortium that certifies Audio Video Bridging (AVB) products for interoperability, is boasting a first after welcoming its latest member, Crestron. The addition of the provider of control and automation systems marks the first AVnu Alliance member to create solutions for smart home and commercial buildings and furthers the progression of AVB in professional AV and residential markets. The alliance, with 65 global members, is seeing accelerated momentum for AVB across markets including professional AV, automotive and residential. Member companies are working together to drive AVnu-certified devices, claiming high performance, reliability and flexibility. “Our commitment to standards makes us the perfect candidate to join the AVnu Alliance to ensure interoperability among networked AV devices and provide the highest quality streaming AV experience,” said Crestron director of architecture and design John Pavlik. AVnu Alliance president Rick Kreifeldt said: “Crestron understands the importance of having pieces of a complex system work together. As a leader in residential and commercial automation systems they will lend knowledge to the alliance and extend our commitment to the AVB ecosystem. “The AVnu Alliance is fostering a new networking ecosystem of interoperable devices by working with industry leading members such as Crestron,” said Rick. AVnu Alliance certified products include the Extreme Networks Summit 440 switches and the group is seeing growing momentum in all market segments. It is testing AVB-enabled networking devices at its appointed testing house, University of New Hampshire InterOperability Laboratory. It also has many products in the certification process. AVnu Certification is available to alliance member companies.

ND SOU THE NAL

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PROF

PROFESSIONAL THE SOUND OF SCIENCE SINCE 1973

More information: Crestron +44 (0)845 873 8787, www.crestron.co.uk

www.qed.co.uk Sign up to the Essential Install twitter feed www.twitter.com/essentialinstal

Essential Install

Artcoustic Denmark:

Artcoustic UK and Eire:

DK SHOWROOM (by appointment only) Tel: +45 32836060 artcoustic@artcoustic.com www.artcoustic.com

UK SHOWROOM (by appointment only) Tel: +44 (0)1245 400904 salesuk@artcoustic.com www.artcoustic.com

Essential NEWS

NEW AWARDS WEBSITE FROM CEDIA CEDIA (the Custom Electronic Design and Installation Association) has unveiled a new website for its ninth annual awards that celebrate excellence in residential custom installation. Content of the new site, www.cediaawards.org, will include access to a new online entry process. The site went live in February, mirrors the look and feel of the consumer-facing site and is more user friendly. The latter aspect is important, as the awards are open to members across Region 1 including the UK, Europe, the CIS, Middle East, Africa, India and Pakistan. To highlight the benefits of entering, CEDIA has included coverage from consumer and trade titles and testimonials from past winners. This information is targeted at new members who are not aware of the CEDIA Awards. An archive section dates back to 2008, providing a wellrounded view of what can be achieved from taking part. Meanwhile the streamlined online entry will enable members to draft, edit, review and then submit their completed entry. The website also mentions the branding and sponsorship opportunities for manufacturers and distributors. CEDIA will generate exposure for brands in the lead up to the event, on the night itself in front of 300 industry guests and afterwards through high-proﬁle editorial, advertising and the Awards Yearbook. The awards are open only to CEDIA member companies and the ceremony will take place on July 11 at a venue to be confirmed. Visit www.cediaawards.org

Simply Control A complete end-to-end user interface and control option for any WyreStorm AV Matrix

More information: CEDIA +44 (0)1480 213744, www.cedia.co.uk

BIG NAMES ADOPT CONTROL4 SDDP TECH Control4 Corporation is boasting nearly 60 global brands in consumer electronics, security, lighting and HVAC that have adopted the Control4 Simple Device Discovery Protocol (SDDP). The growing momentum for the Control4 platform and its SDDP technology represents a broadening interest from manufacturers to play a deeper role in the connected home as automation in the house becomes mainstream. New SDDP licensees include brands such as HARMAN International, the premium global audio and infotainment group; TiVo Inc, a global leader in the advanced television entertainment market and Epson, the wellknown projector brand. Other companies including Denon, Dish Networks, Integra, LILIN, Marantz, Onkyo, Pioneer, Sharp, Sony, Toshiba America Information Systems and Yamaha have already licensed SDDP technology for some of their products. Control4 SDDP software technology is now integrated with hundreds of leading manufacturers’ products, ranging from flat panel TVs, projectors and disc players to AV receivers and set-top boxes, thermostats and security cameras. The technology enables device interoperability and integration with Control4 systems for a seamless experience. The home automation system automatically finds and adds SDDP-enabled devices to the platform, reducing complexity and installation time for Control4 dealers. “By creating an ever-expanding ecosystem of high-profile, SDDPenabled consumer device manufacturers along with our worldwide network of thousands of Control4-certified automation specialists, Control4 is positioned to reach and serve more consumers to deliver exceptional connected home experiences.” TiVo vice president of sales and marketing Doug Bieter said: “Control4’s SDDP software and network of over 3,000 high-end custom installers gives our current and potential customers the team they are looking for to easily and confidently integrate TiVo into their smart homes.”

habitech.co.uk

More information: Control4 +44 (0)1347 812 300, www.control4.com

Essential Install

Essential NEws

MERIDIAN UNVEILS ITS BEST-EVER SPEAKERS The recently opened Meridian West London Boutique in Chelsea hosted a two-day open event in February to headline a new kit launch. Meridian used the event to connect with its retail partners to preview the introduction of the new Special Edition DSP Digital Active Loudspeakers in-store. Events will continue throughout March and April and provide an opportunity to experience the new Special Edition DSP Digital

Special delivery: Meridian’s DSP Digital Active Loudspeakers

More information: Meridian +44 (0)1480 445678 ww.meridian-audio.com

SALES MANAGER JOB ADVERT The Multi-Room Company is expanding and is in need of a field sales manager to look after its range of custom installation electronics and accessories. The ideal candidate will be a self-motivated individual who is able to work on their own initiative to build and maintain relationships with existing customers and develop new ones. They will be good at multi-tasking, working on multiple projects at the same time and most importantly be highly skilled at communicating the benefits of technical products, to ensure the maximum number of sales conversions. Knowledge of the CI industry, from an installation or distribution background, is essential; as is the ability to help with customer system specifying and site support. Salary: Good basic plus commission on sales Location: Field based with occasional visits to the Cheltenham head office Requirements: Proven CI industry experience Excellent IT skills – Outlook and Excel Good verbal and written English Presentation skills Excellent interpersonal skills Car owner Please submit your CV and covering letter to: Mike Bonnette at The Multi-Room Company mike@multi-room.com

Active Loudspeakers, enjoy in-depth demonstrations and hear from Meridian engineers. Meridian bills the new equipment as its best ever loudspeaker systems and the event marks the 25th anniversary of the introduction of the world’s first digital loudspeaker. The Special Edition series of DSP Digital Active Loudspeakers provides the most revealing, lifelike and powerful performance of any Meridian loudspeaker to date. To achieve the highest performance possible, the Special Edition loudspeakers required many entirely new design implementations to the award-winning DSP8000, DSP7200 and DSP5200 models. All Special Edition loudspeakers feature new Meridian designed short horn loaded tweeter with a Beryllium dome and new mid-range and bass driver mechanical clamp rings. They also include new wideband, high resolution analogue electronics and new DSP implementing the performance improvement of ‘EBA’ technology across the entire frequency range.

New website for FSC Tru FSC, Tru has launched a brand new website to promote its home automation cable range. www.trucables.com is now live, packed with extensive product information and cable specifications on a whole range of products for home and building automation. Tru cables has been developed to bring installers the ultimate level of connectivity, says the maker and the Tru range covers most popular applications for integrating electronic systems into the home or building from AV, entertainment, building control to lighting and security solutions. The latest series of home automation composite cables are included, containing multiple cables such as Cat-5E, Cat-6, digital coaxes and more within a single jacket for easy routing. Lighting cables for most popular lighting systems including Mode, Trend, Lutron and Simmtronic are included in the TruLighting range, while TruSecurity contains cables for access control, alarms and internal and external security. The manufacturer says these high quality products use only the best materials to ensure consistent, high performance making sure Installers get the most out of any equipment. Read the Tru cable blog for the most up to date news of the company’s latest products and news in the industry. Created with the user firmly in mind, the new website is described as sleek, stylish and designed using the latest technology so the site is compatible with both browsers and mobile devices. More Information: Tru Cables +44 (0)1727 840841 www.trucables.com

Closing date for applications: 14 March 2014

12 Essential Install

Essential NEWS

NEW MAN AT NEW LOEWE TARGETS SALES

Peter Orre held highpowered posts at Hewlett Packard and Apple

Peter Orre has been made the new managing director at Loewe to seek out new customer groups and sales markets. The 59-year-old Swede worked for more than ten years at Hewlett Packard in Munich, most recently as marketing director. Before this he held various management positions at Apple in America and Europe, where he developed design. Peter said: “Loewe has set high standards in both performance and design. The strength of Loewe’s brand offers tremendous potential. By pooling our strengths we will access new customer groups and sales markets with the right product ideas, technology partnerships and marketing initiatives.” Loewe’s new owners, Gesmar-Larsen, Kalmund and Sepmeier, aim to make the brand more attractive to a broader-based, younger, design-oriented, technophile target group in key territories including Europe, Russia and China. The company will draw upon the sophisticated development expertise that Loewe has already notched up in combining TV and audio products into compelling ‘digital lifestyle’ entertainment solutions. Loewe products will continue to be designed, engineered and assembled in Germany. Chairman of the advisory board of New Loewe Jan Gesmar-Larsen said: “Peter is a seasoned, top-class manager who will press ahead with further realigning and rejuvenating of the Loewe brand. “He has in-depth knowledge of German and international premium technology markets and great familiarity with trends and customers’ needs. He will draw on this expertise to develop new Loewe products that will inspire the market.” More information:+44 (0)20 73681100, www.loewe-uk.com/uk

FUTURE AUTOMATION TEES UP WITH D-TOOLS

Future Automation products will be listed in the D-Tools database for System Integrator users

Future Automation has become the latest company to join the growing army of members of the D-Tools MVP Partnership Program. As part of the agreement, information about Future Automation products will be available on the D-Tools product database for D-Tools System Integrator users to specify into their system designs and client proposals free of charge. Future Automation is a market leader in flat screen mounting solutions and high-tech automation devices. It designs and manufactures lift mechanisms, wall mounts, art lifts and ceiling drops for televisions and projectors. Future Automation manager Rob Luxton said: “We are happy to team up to provide mutual clients with our latest and most comprehensive product information for use in their electronic systems design, proposal, and specification.” D-Tools Manufacturer Vantage Point (MVP) program helps to provide system integrators with the most up-to-date product information to over 4,400 companies using D-Tools System Integrator software. President and chief executive officer of D-Tools Adam Stone said: “As a premier provider of motorised solutions for clients worldwide, Future Automation delivers creative results to seemingly impossible applications. “It is now easier than ever for system designers, integrators and others in the field to incorporate these elegant enhancements into their designs and proposals.” More information: Future Automation +44 (0)1438 833577 www.futureautomation.co.uk

Essential Install

Sync-box is the only recessed power and AV socket solution for use with the installation of all AV and flat screen entertainment products.

• Designed around a standard double gang faceplate, sync-box is easily adapted around any environment. • Sync-box is completely adaptable to your power & AV needs. Based around the standard euro module system, units clip in with ease. • All power & AV connections are fully recessed when in position. • With a unique cover plate, sync-box leaves a beautiful finish flush to the wall.

DO YOU WANT TO WATCH A MOVIE?

...OR DO YOU WANT TO EXPERIENCE A MOVIE? IF YOU’RE NOT CHOOSING PROJECTION, THEN YOU’RE NOT CHOOSING HOME CINEMA! Large screen projection delivers the home cinema experience like nothing else. Are you experiencing movies as they were intended? • Larger screen sizes provide immersive home cinema at its very best! • Draper offers the most comprehensive selection of viewing surfaces in the industry as well as over 40 unique screen models to choose from!

• With the finest viewing surface selection tools available, Draper can help guide you in choosing the perfect surface for any application. • Draper’s new High Performance XS850E (currently available on Onyx screen models) rejects the ambient light found in many multipurpose rooms, offers great off axis viewing and high contrast in most light conditions.

+44 (0) 1536 203101 www.drapergroupltd.co.uk

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Essential NEWS

INVISION UK SIGNS DEAL WITH LILIN The partnership offers new lines in awardwinning IP-Based HD surveillance kit

Invision UK has signed a strategic distribution agreement with LILIN enabling the former to sell and support LILIN’s product line. LILIN designs and manufactures IP video security products and has developed a line up of award-winning products, from megapixel cameras to network video recorders that can be integrated with third-party control systems including Control4, Savant Systems and URC. Integration with these systems provides a smart and convenient solution for the homeowner. New drivers for RTI, Crestron, AMX and ELAN G will be released in February, said Invision UK business manager Mark Taylor. “The LILIN product range perfectly fits the Invision UK product portfolio,” said Mark. “Together, Invision UK and LILIN are delivering a unique and strategic product for our customers, providing them with a high-impact addition to their product portfolio to grow their business.” LILIN group vice president Jason Hill said: “Invision UK looks like the perfect partner for us to reach all the UK-based custom integrators and raise awareness of our IP video equipment. LILIN has committed to becoming the preferred manufacturer of HD cameras and recording systems to the global CI market. “Our end-to-end HD surveillance solutions are perfectly suited to the high-end residential, leisure and entertainment sectors as they are simple to operate, easy to integrate and do not rely on PCs or software.” More information: Invision UK +44 (0)1359 270280, www.invisionuk.com

On Any Screen Any where affordable, intuitive always on and always accessible platform-independent iOS, Android, Blackberry Windows, MacOS diagnose systems remotely add system-wide updates and new features design, configure and program simply, from anywhere

ROADMAP FOR BLU-RAY DISKS WITH UHD/4K BDA (Blu-ray Disc Association) has confirmed it is working on Blu-ray discs with UHD/4K support having recently approved a draft extension to the standard. The Blu-ray standard, which is currently limited to HD video, is not good enough for the UHD TVs that were seen at the recent CES show in Las Vegas and any of the trade shows to take place in the last year. UHD streaming of select content is available on the likes of Netflix, but such services require high-bandwidth Internet connections. According to reports in the USA the technical blueprint for UHD Blu-ray should be available by end 2014. Work involves 17 companies, including Sony, Technicolor, Dolby, Fox and Disney. Meanwhile the Digital Entertainment Content Ecosystem (DECE) consortium also plans to add UHD support to cloud-based distribution service UltraViolet, with potential for high dynamic range and related features. “The 4K (ultra HD) is on our roadmap and this will need to be a standard since it needs to work on a variety of devices and platforms,” DECE general manager Mark Teitell was reported as saying recently. “We’re also looking at high dynamic range, colour space and frame rate. It’s likely to be a combination of those attributes that will represent the next generation. We are looking at what we need to do and will take the best combination.” More information: Blu-ray Disc Association www.blu-raydisc.com

habitech.co.uk

Essential Install

total control idevice-new-footer.pdf 1 26/02/2014 17:01:39

Provide your customer with the ability to control all of the electronics in their home from a single device that’s part of their everyday life. Utilising the MRX-10 network controller (pictured) your customer can control their TV, stream their entire music collection, adjust home lighting, heating or even see who’s at the front door via CCTV, all from their iPhone or iPad. Just some of the amazing capabilities of Total Control. The range also includes a choice of handheld WiFi remotes and in-wall keypads meaning they’ll have total control of their home, from anywhere. An off-site programming feature means you can easily provide excellent customer service, regular upgrades, maintenance and peace of mind for your customer.

CMY

Take control of your home from your iPad with Total Control Other products in the Total Control range include WiFi remote controls, network ampliﬁers, network controllers and switches

Apple iPad not included and must be purchased separately. Total Control app is available from the App Store. URC Total Control is in no way endorsed by Apple. Apple and iPad are registered trademarks of Apple Corporation.

Distributed in the UK by AWE Europe Ltd AWE Europe Ltd | Alexander House, 450A Blenheim Road, Epsom, Surrey, KT19 9AP sales@awe-europe.com | tel: +44 (0)1372 729 995 | www.awe-europe.com

Essential #Liveinstall

Get serious about energy saving Kris Gamble brings EI up to date on the latest news and views from the #LiveInstall community of installers. LiveInstall were in Amsterdam last week, representing the industry alongside the large group of LiveInstall’ers who made it there, keeping a watchful eye on a number of exciting developments and products and tweeting our thoughts alongside the many others who were using our hashtag. When the dust had settled after a hectic week, the organisers were happy to announce a huge total attendance of 51,003, which is a 15% increase on the previous year; proof, if any was needed, of the direction in which our industry is rapidly heading. Perhaps the most noticeable impact of this growth was on the selection of seminars, which were so popular that they overflowed and people could be seen standing outside the residential theatre trying to catch a glimpse of the presentations. Although the show was thriving with the boosted numbers, it was fantastic to notice that there is still a strong sense of community amongst the industry. This is an aspect that LiveInstall was proud to contribute to and one that we will look to expand on for future shows. See you all in Amsterdam for ISE 2015!

Energy Saving

This #liveinstall was captured by @ avmvisual at the ISE2014 Residential Theatre, Home Cinema presentation by @spherecustom

With the flooding in England currently a constant source of gloomy news stories, global warming is as ever the problem that just won’t go away. So there’s no better time than the present to start considering how homeowners can reduce their energy usage and the size of their carbon footprint. Efforts in this area are not just about easing guilty consciences though; consumers should always be aware of the cost saving benefits of control systems that help to conserve energy. This is an aspect that we, as smart home installers, could potentially do more to promote. We witness first hand on our Twitter feed exactly what is deemed exciting enough to be put in the #LiveInstall virtual shop window. The vast majority of this is understandably entertainment-oriented, with very little focus given to energy saving and the green home. Given the nature of our industry, perhaps it is time to take more responsibility and help to put a bit of style into saving the environment. Our collective integration skills could be vital in helping to make these

This #liveinstall is from Visual Sounds Ltd, @visualsoundsltd, which saw collaboration with @digital_plumber and @_avicci

features a standard part of every smart home. Why not start by tweeting us about your next environmentally-friendly install?

Packaged Smart Homes Recently we noticed the launch of the Face to Face Digital ready-to-wear collection. These #LiveInstall’ers have taken a step that many smart home install businesses have considered by presenting their service to consumers as a collection of packages. They are clearly defined in both product and price and simplify the options available to consumers in what is often considered a crowded and overwhelming market. The packages recommend that electricians follow the CEDIA wiring guidelines, an integral step towards the standardisation of smart home cabling in every home. This is a result that could be achieved much faster with a conscious industry-wide effort to promote the guidelines to all cogs in the wheel of home building.

What is #LiveInstall to you? Noah Derrington, executive director, Smart Nest UK, says: “#LiveInstall is as much a culture and a community as it is a social media handle. It is a powerful means to connect with and share within a group of like-minded peers. It is an open platform with no hierarchy and a shared sense of purpose. The defined goals of the #LiveInstall community are to raise standards, collaborate, share ideas and promote the industry in order to create new opportunities for the installer community.” More Information on the #LiveInstall community can be found by following @LiveInstall or visiting www.liveinstall.co.uk

Essential Install

Essential AWE

URC KEEPS EVERYTHING UNDER CONTRL AT ISE 2014 As the dust settles from yet another successful ISE, AWE, the UK distributor for URC, looks back at the products launched at the show where industry professionals were able to experience first-hand, the advanced features available with URC’s range of whole house control systems. Products highlighted include the aesthetically advanced TKP-7000 and the no-nonsense TRC-1080 remote control.

Visitors to the ISE were able to get to grips with the URC TKP-7000

URC TKP-7000 Touch-Screen URC’s TKP-7000 has been created to provide the technology todays consumers want, coupled to the need for sensitive design. An attractive in-wall touch-screen, AWE says the TKP-7000 doesn’t compromise the look of a room and adds first class performance to the mix. Featuring a 7in 1024 x 600 capacitive-touch colour screen, the new URC TKP-7000 is an intuitive control device, adding complete management of all entertainment, lighting, heating, security and more. The unit offers gesture-based control of music lists, source selection and volume. With full graphic feedback from both URC and compatible third-party devices, the TKP-7000 can also display live video for security monitoring when combined with URC cameras. Like the rest of the Total Control range, the TKP-7000 can be programmed off the premises via the Internet. AWE says this provides the end-user with first-class customer service, allowing the installer to update remotely and if needs be, troubleshoot off-site for minimal disruption.

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URC TRC-1080, TRG-100 & TRG-200 Remote Controls URC also unveiled a brand new remote control, which works exclusively with its Total Control home automation system. Featuring a backlit high resolution two-inch LCD screen, the TRC-1080 is designed to be eye-catching and work well in the hand with its sleek ergonomic design. Thanks to pick-up sensor technology, the remote control automatically wakes up from standby when lifted from its piano black table top charging cradle. With an uncluttered button layout, the remote benefits from four colour coded buttons, allowing fast access to interactive TV services and Blu-ray/DVR functions. Also introduced at the ISE 2014 were the new TRG-100 and TRG-200 remote controls. Utilising advanced gyroscopic technology, these controls work with the URC MRX-20 Advanced Onscreen Network System Controller, allowing endusers to summon an onscreen overlay and control features for the entire property, by simply moving and pointing at options.

Essential AWE Extra Vegetable Sonos Module

The URC offering includes compatibility with smart phones and other portable devices

URC also demonstrated further functionality and compatibility to its Total Control system, which now works with an increased variety of third party products and streaming services. A long awaited and much requested feature, the recent integration of Extra Vegetables’ new 2-way Sonos module into the URC system comes as welcome news to URC dealers. As Sonos continues to be popular with end-users and play a part in the CI sector, providing a flexible way to distribute music around a property and delivering other benefits, such as ease of installation and upgrade paths, URC was keen to provide a trusted link between the two systems. Additionally, Sonos offers support for popular music streaming services including: Spotify, Napster, last.fm, Deezer, MOG and TuneIn. Extra Vegetables has also created other modules for two-way control of DIRECTV, Roku, Popcorn Hour/Popbox and Dune HD in conjunction with the URC platform. All are said to be easy to install and work with URC Accelerator, requiring little setup as they automatically connect to Total Control, displaying customised graphics on URC touch-panels, remote controls and iOS Apps right from the off.

Additional URC Accessories With security playing a vital role in whole house automation, URC has designed a range of surveillance cameras that can be integrated with its Total Control system. Visitors to the URC stand saw the new CAM-DC1 and CAM-DCO cameras, which are described as stylish, compact and easy-to-install. Furthermore, ISE exhibitors also had the chance to find out more about the new MRX-4SEN Sensor Extender and six new sensors that expand the power of the Total Control system and enable exciting new control possibilities. Installers were able to learn how individual sensors observe the presence of video, light, audio, current, voltage or contact closure. Status is conveyed through the

compact MRX-4SEN to the MRX Advanced Network Controller to trigger actions or advanced macros. Another URC product shown at ISE was the MRX-2 Network Base Station. Built to bridge the digital divide between control of the client’s legacy components and the IP network, the MRX-2 acts as a Total Control sub-base station. The system receives commands from an MRX-10 and reissues them via IR, RS232 or relays. Each MRX-2 includes one relay, one sensor port, two RS232 ports and six IR ports. The advanced connectivity of the MRX-2 allows it to connect to virtually any device or component. Visitors to the stand were also able to learn about the advantages offered by AWE’s new UK HQ, with its specially created demo and educational facilities. The new facility will get a grand opening when the AWE Expo is held on March 31. More Information: AWE +44 (0)1372 729995 www.awe-europe.com, sales@awe-europe.com

URC and Extra Vegetables combine to offer compatibility with third party platforms such as Sonos

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Essential HABITECH

IC Realtime puts the ‘Eye’ in IP Habitech welcomes the highly capable ‘IC Realtime’ CCTV range to its ProNet stable of IP brands. Technical manager Justin Martin Lawrence zooms in... A couple of months ago we broke the news about our plans for ICRealtime and the reaction from integrators has been spectacular. The range of IP CCTV cameras, companion recorders and accessories, now on the Habitech site, demonstrates that if you are networking security in the home or even integrating legacy analogue camera systems, the ICR toolbox is about as complete and competent as you’ll find. Look at the facts.

Award-Winning Performance ICR has pedigree. Since its formation in 2006, the company has sold over 4.5 million cameras and recorders. It’s the leading provider in the North American Home Automation sector, beating over one hundred companies (including Axis and Panasonic) to be voted the number one brand by US trade title CE-Pro magazine. The products are feature rich, reliable, intuitive and highly competitive and as our site will confirm we’ve selected a wide range of the best IP cameras, recorders, lenses and accessories. Alongside the peerless 1080p performance, time-saving PoE connectivity and choice of technology on offer, it was ICR’s powerful cross-platform compatibility that really impressed us at the last CEDIA US Expo. This brand is easy to control and integrate by design.

ICIP-D2000

Easy-to-Control The high performance Linux OS is as robust as they come and the GUI is super quick and easy-to-use making deployment and customer training seamless. All ICR’s IP devices and recorders can be managed through the remote CMS software, which is compatible with Windows and MAC – and it’s free-of-charge! Just like the operating system, ICR’s mobile ICRSS App on Apple iOS, Android and Windows Phone provides multisite accessibility across ICR technologies and devices, delivering powerful control to you and your customer.

Easy-to-Integrate

ICIP-D2000VIR

IC Realtime has the ability to integrate with leading Alarm Receiving Centres (ARCs), other VMS vendors and home automation systems, allowing you flexibility when augmenting and enhancing existing security installations as well as designing new ones. ICR’s IP cameras and recorders integrate with most third-party VMS platforms such as Genetec, Lenel, Milestone and Nuno and all IP recorders are Onvif compliant for use with other IP camera brands, if they’re already installed. Especially outstanding for our home control customers is the compatibility with the leading

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automation brands: Control4, AMX, Crestron, Savant, RTI, Vantage, etc. through free-of-charge drivers and easy-toaccess snapshots and video streams. What’s more, both the NVRs and cameras provide secondary streams to allow for lower bandwidth applications (remote monitoring or integration with control systems that do not support H.264), while full HD is simultaneously available through the primary stream and HDMI.

Essential HABITECH Unified IP

The ICIP-P20X3MIR-WD is just one of a 14 strong range available through Habitech

Although the traditional IP Camera URL can be used in applications and drivers, a very useful feature of the NVRs is that they provide every camera stream through a unified IP address and span subnets. If you have existing IP cameras on a network and wish to integrate new ones using the inbuilt PoE switch, the NVR automatically detects these and supplies video streams through simple URLs on a single address.

Made for CI In typical Habitech style we’ve gone the extra mile and pre-configured the NVRs specifically for CI installations. This means that out-of-the-box, the system can immediately be connected to an HDMI matrix and DHCP network for quick integration with a control system. Simple-to-follow documentation with drivers on our website makes it a synch to get the system up and running in minutes. And the downsides? We haven’t found any yet and we’ve dug deep. ICRealtime is the perfect complement to our growing ProNet platform of IP brands, as capable and competitive a solution as you’ll find anywhere in CI, complete with excellent margins and the customary Habitech product service and support.

IP Cameras Habitech offers the choice of 14 IP cameras from the compact, vandal-proof and very affordable ICIP-D2000 1080P model to the ICIP-P20X3M-IR-WD, a flagship product with 3MP resolution, full PTZ ability, 20x Optical Zoom and up to 70m IR Range. Interspersed are specialist indoor models such as the ICIP-3000CCD-W, an advanced box CCD camera with built in Wi-Fi, 3MP sensor, invaluable where cabling is absent or difficult.

All IP Cameras are • • • •

Onvif (Ver 2) compliant H.264 compliant PoE capable SD slot equipped for local backup and recording

NVRs Choose from no fewer than five NVRs across three ranges starting with ‘The Breeze HD’ models in four and eight camera versions, which offer full HD quality, simplicity and plug-and-go installation. All the camera ports are PoE and the IP cameras are configured automatically within two minutes of boot up, so ‘The Breeze’ really is a ‘breeze’ to install. Next, the ‘Gamma HD’ is a 32 Channel NVR designed to a higher level of specification, which delivers 128Mbps recording capability over 32 inputs. Topping out the NVR range and ideal for large-scale HD IP deployment, the ‘Matrix HD’ is an Enterprise class NVR, with a capacity of 128 channels at D1 (25fps), 64 channels at 720P (25fps), 32 channels at 1080P (25fps). And if you’re upgrading an existing analogue system by adding HD IP cameras in key areas, the ‘Agile HD’ is a 32 channel hybrid recorder, delivering 16 analogue channels at full D1 (25fps) and 16 IP Channels at 1080P (6fps). As with all IC Realtime standalone NVRs there are no camera license fees or recurring charges!

IC Realtime • Wide range of affordable IP Cameras, NVRs and accessories • Built for CI: easy integration with major control systems through FOC drivers • High quality HD performance for multiple views • Highly compatible H.264 streams • Configurable hot spot sensitivity • PoE support: easy installation through single cable • Supports ONVIF standard for video quality imaging • Micro SD slot for local backup and recording • Software is intuitive, feature-rich, easy-to-use, seamless across all platforms • Apps for iOS/Android/Windows mobile More information: Habitech +44 (0)1420 540054 www.habitech.co.uk

‘The Breeze HD’ NVR is an easy to install and capable partner to IP camera networks

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12/02/2014 10:06

Essential ISE REVIEW

ZoneRipper

ISE 2014 again broke attendance records with 51,003 visitors making it to the event

The show always provides an opportunity for the leading automation platforms to do battle and present their advancements for the coming year. Crestron rose to the challenge with gusto putting particular emphasis on its 4K solutions showcasing 4K DigitalMedia switching and video distribution devices. Robin van Meeuwen, VP of Crestron International, says: “4K displays are quickly establishing a strong foothold in both professional and consumer markets. However, up until now, video distribution technology was not available to transmit 4K content throughout a home or business, to multiple rooms, or over long distances. “When it comes to emerging video distribution technology in the digital arena, once again, Crestron is taking the lead, this time with the first complete 4K solution.” Visitors were able to see a live 4K switching demo from a variety of sources to different Crestron 4K Certified displays, using new products including the DMC-4KHD Input Card and DMB-4K-I-HD Input Blade which enables 4K HDMI input to 8X8, 16X16, and 32X32 DM switchers and the DMB-4K-I-HD input blade which allows 4K HDMI input to 64X64 and 128X128 DM switchers. Also put through their paces were the Type 8 Output Cards which deliver 4K DM output from 8X8, 16X16 and 32X32 DM switchers and the DMB-4K-O-C outpu4kt blade which promotes 4K DM output from 64X64 and 128X128 DM switchers. The output can be connected to a DM receiver or directly to any HDBaseT compliant device. Also shown was the DMRMC-4K-100-C which provides a one-box interface for a single 4K display device as part of a complete Crestron DM system. In addition to lossless audio and 4K video, the DM-RMC-4K-100-C provides Ethernet, RS232 and IR control ports. Visitors also got a look at the HD-XSPA which brings in 4K video from a matrix switcher through a Crestron DM input port and four local HDMI inputs. With a builtin high-performance eight-channel amplifier, Crestron says the product makes it easy and affordable to include top-quality 7.1 surround sound in a home cinema as part of a whole-house distribution system. This meaty component delivers 140W/ Ch. at 8 Ohms, with a dedicated subwoofer channel for powering a passive in-wall subwoofer. The HD-XSPA can also provide a two-channel down-mix to feed back to a distributed audio system or two assigned amp channels (leaving 5.1 for surround). In addition, Crestron DigitalMedia matrix switchers, ranging from the 8X8 model to the newest 128X128 edition, were shown as being ready for 4K support. Both models support 4K signals and extension of uncompressed, HDCP-protected HDMI content up to 100 metres via HDBaseT. Transmitters may be mounted in a single gang wall box, are available with black or white faceplates and can also be rack mounted. Control4 used the event to showcase enhanced integration for security cameras for residential and commercial spaces. Control4 says adoption of surveillance cameras and network video recorders (NVRs) is growing at a rapid pace, a trend that makes security automation one of the industry’s most promising growth areas. Consequently, enhanced interoperability with surveillance cameras has been key for the platform, spearheaded by Simple Device Discovery Protocol (SDDP) recognition of five of the top security manufacturers. In addition to new SDDP driver support for two

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EI presents a showcase of just some of the highlights from this year’s event which saw launches and innovation galore.

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ZoneRipper Essential Install

MRX 710 / 510 / 310 A/V RECEIVERS

No Trade Offs: High-End Performance

GENERATION 2 HAS ARRIVED!

AND Ease of Integration

Seven channels of power on MRX 710 and 510, five channels on MRX 310. Advanced load monitoring keeps a constant eye on output. ARC 1M an enhanced version of our award-winning room correction system now connects via Ethernet, includes a higher level of digital signal processing and offers an option to print ‘before and after’ room-measurement graphs. We’ve doubled the HDMI connections, increased HDMI switching speed and included 4K upscaling and pass-through. Remote control apps for Apple and Android! IP and Serial control drivers for full integration with automation. Easier to read on-screen menus and improved status displays. Bi-amp your front L/R channels on MRX 710 and 510. Optical and coax as well as analogue inputs now send music to Zone 2. And that’s just for starters …

INCLUDES

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Essential ISE Review brands of NVRs and more than 1,500 models of surveillance cameras, Control4 has developed new IP camera drivercreation tools that are designed to simplify installation and provide new features to deliver a robust and accessible remote security monitoring experience. To make deployment and integration of surveillance systems less time consuming and more feature-rich, Control4 has also provided camera manufacturers with a newly published camera proxy API, which will enable security manufacturers like Channel Vision, Lilin, Planet, QNAP and Snap AV to develop Control4certified drivers that will take full advantage of the capabilities of each of the models they manufacture. The new level of integration also promotes easier implementation of features such as facial and license plate recognition and advanced motion detection into a Control4 eco-system over drag and drop Composer Pro. The company also says that setup will also be more efficient because Control4-certified cameras will no longer require a static IP address. In addition, all of Control4’s mobile Apps will support the h.264 video streaming capabilities, utilised by the many security cameras to deliver video quality at 80% or more bandwidth savings, increasing the usability of remote monitoring. All of the enhanced functionality, new tools and interoperability with cameras via SDDP will be available with the release of Control4 OS 2.5.3, scheduled for just after the ISE. AMX also had a strong show, offering many office and corporate based solutions. “ISE has always been an important show for us but this year it exceeded even our own

expectations,” explains Kevin Morrison, managing director and vice president, AMX Europe. “Our new Booth was incredibly well received and, with its end-user focus, proved to be the perfect platform on which to showcase the real world applications of AMX technology.” A neat, affordable and easy to install boardroom/meeting solution was demoed in the form Enzo. Designed specifically for collaboration via a screen or projector/screen, AMX says Enzo is the simplest, fastest way to present and share information during a meeting allowing users to easily access content and documents stored on USB, web or in the cloud. Allowing people to jump right into a collaboration session with no set up and use familiar services such as dropbox, the system works from just one unit which uses PoE and all that is needed on the control side is a mouse and keyboard. To facilitate a simplified scheduling experience, AMX also introduced into Europe Quick Response Scheduling (QRS) for RMS Enterprise that provides a convenient and cost effective option for viewing specific room schedules from any mobile device, by scanning the QR code mounted near the room entrance. On the touch-panel side of things visitors were able to see the new 7in and 10in Modero ‘S’ Series models, plus the 4.3in version (which ships in March 2014). Designed to complement the sleek design of the Modero X, the new Modero S Series range is suited for more cost sensitive installations and room scheduling applications and also comes with a new Any Mount Kit, enabling mounting into single and double gang wall boxes.

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Essential ISE Review

AMX had a strong show offering insight into many of its light commercial solutions

Savant is one of the fasted growing platforms around and had a strong ISE

26 Essential Install

AMX also used ISE 2014 to announce that its Enova DGX range is now fully capable of supporting 4K and Ultra High Definition (UHD) content and to showcase the latest version of its configuration tool; Rapid Project Maker (RPM) Version 2.0 which simplifies room configuration and management with support for dual rooms and multiple in-room control panels. Savant available in the UK from RGB Communications is a system that has been gaining traction of late and the show witnessed some further functionality additions. Technologies showcased included the Wi-Fi-based selfconfiguring Universal Remote Control, the SmartLighting WiFi lighting control system and multi-room media distribution. The maker says the Savant Universal Remote has been designed for the modern media room, providing intuitive control of an entire audio/video system along with connected devices such as distributed audio, lighting, climate control and other features within a residential or commercial setting. Similar to Savant’s existing user interfaces, the unit is selfconfiguring once connected to the network, eliminating the need for programming. The controller supports a menu of screens for controlling services throughout the home or workplace and because it utilises Wi-Fi connectivity, users can control devices without pointing or aiming. Savant’s SmartLighting Wi-Fi 802.11-based lighting control products are designed to provide a versatile solution that can be used as both a stand-alone lighting control platform or as part of a Savant automation system. Featuring a dimmer inside each double gang Wi-Fi-connected keypad, Savant has created a customisble solution for both new construction and retrofit lighting control that can be integrated without rewiring. Also now available are a family of multi-room media distribution products composed of three video distribution systems (8x8, 8x6, 8x4), an audio distribution system (32x20) and two HDBaseT receivers to accommodate a wide range of installation options. This family of devices compliments Savant’s Wi-Fi-based introductions giving installers a versatile platform for commercial or residential work. The event also provided an opportunity for the platform to underline its KNX integration as well as iOS and Android user interfaces. Control specialist URC (available in

the UK from AWE) showcased a variety of functionality and compatibility to its Total Control system including Extra Vegetables’ recent two-way Sonos integration module. The protocol specialist, in collaboration with URC, has created further modules for two-way control of DIRECTV, Roku, Popcorn Hour/Popbox and Dune HD. All modules are described as easy to install and work with URC Accelerator, requiring minimal dealer setup as they seamlessly connect to Total Control, displaying customised graphics on URC touchpanels, remote controls and iOS Apps straight out of the box. The URC Total Control App was able to display its full compatibility with iOS7 and Total Control is now also compatible with a range of third party IP and analogue cameras, from manufacturers such as Wirepath Surveillance, IC Realtime, Panasonic and Axis. AWE staff were also excited at the prospect of being able to bring to bear all the advantages of the company’s new HQ offering new demo and educational facilities. An open day in the form of the AWE Expo will be held on March 31, to showcase the new set up, contact the company for more details. Control was a key theme on the Wyrestorm stand as the company showcased its much anticipated automation platform, Enado. The new control interface combines hardware and software to provide installers with an affordable and easy to use/implement for end-to-end control and support of HD AV distribution systems and related electronics. Designed to provide an intuitive user interface, the system operates over a browser-based platform meaning any Internet enabled device can control the system. To the end user, Wyrestorm says Enado acts as a traditional App, easily accessible via any iPad, Android device or smartphone; but behind the simplicity of the Enado interface is a robust, innovative and powerful product designed to be installed without programming. The Controller is a 1U 19in rack mounted unit that features 16 assignable IR ports, 8x Integrated IP ports, an array of contact closures with built-in secure Wi-Fi for connection to any local Internet enabled devices. Enado can also sit on a traditionally secured LAN and be used to control devices in large buildings or indeed anywhere in the world. Enado’s software includes a straight-forward (noprogramming), browser-based Configuration Tool, backed by a comprehensive IR database. A built-in device editor and IR learner, means new devices preview on the presenter’s control device (using the latest IP decoding technology), so they can focus on the audience rather than the display status. No control round up would be complete without a look at the RTI

Essential ISE Review

RTI chose to highlight the new versatile CX7

Kaleidescape hinted that extra storage capacity is in development for the Cinema One

stable and this ISE saw the spotlight fall on the CX7 Countertop controller. A wired user interface for reliable ‘always on’ control suitable for domestic or commercial settings, the unit can be mounted on a countertop or under a cabinet. The CX7 offers an adjustable tilt 7in multi-touch capacitive touch-screen LCD, analogue audio and video inputs, stereo speakers, wired and wireless Ethernet, proximity and ambient light sensors. The unit also features wired 10/100 Base-T and wireless Ethernet, which provides two-way control and feedback, access to Web pages, video from network security cameras and convenient programming. A built-in camera and microphone offer intercom capabilities in the future. The CX7 features multiple power source options, such as the included power supply and Power over Ethernet (PoE). Built-in highoutput IR provides direct control of devices without the need for a separate control processor. RTI products are available in the UK from Invision. CYP had a busy show which included adding to its extensive HDBaseT range. With a line up now consisting of over 50 products including its latest 16 x 16 and 8 x 16 HDBaseT modular matrices, CYP says its latest HDBaseT product additions offer greater connectivity and more advanced ‘break-out’ options. New introductions include the multi-format modular matrix which offers 16x16, 8x16 and 16x8 combinations of any required signal format. The matrix can be configured with HDMI, HDBaseT (4Play & 3Play Lite), DVI and VGA input and output boards and also delivers RS232 pass-through, IP control, DVI monitor output and dual removable internal power supplies that allow for easy inspection and maintenance. A major part of HD Connectivity’s activity at the show surrounded the expansion of the offering from the HDanywhere brand including new module options and a larger, stackable 8×8 chassis size to HDC’s British-made matrix series. Designed and built in the UK, Modular is a customisable Ultra HD 4K compatible HDMI matrix switcher that uses a patented system of interchangeable input/output (I/O) module options to enable installers to create HD distribution systems matched to the needs of each project. The 8×8 chassis has allowed the line up to enhance the

spec to accommodate Ultra HD 4K/60 resolutions and a more future-proofed backplane. Installers are able to specify which signal transmission technology is used for each TV location and modules include HDMI, HDBaseT Pro and HDBaseT Lite Out and now HDBaseT IN, all of which can be mixed and matched in a single system.

Movie Magic Kaleidescape was particularly keen to draw attention to the capabilities offered by its App providing new and intuitive ways to search for content and get the maximum enjoyment from any collection. The company is also promising to continue to innovate with its control interfaces and App, perhaps exploring what more can be done with recommend data available from sites such as Rotten Tomatoes. The recently launched Cinema One was also a key part of the show and the company is excited that its concept is now available at a new price point. Cinema One lets viewers enjoy their movies in true bit-for-bit Blu-ray and DVD quality— whether imported from CD, DVD, Blu-ray disc or downloaded from the Kaleidescape Store. Cinema One stores up to 600 DVD or 100 Blu-ray quality movies and the company told EI that it is taking a serious look at creating some extra storage for the machine, but as yet no details are available. Home cinemas of course need screens and one company offering some fresh ideas at the show was Screen Innovations (SI). To add to its Black Diamond technology which provides performance for high-ambient light conditions, SI now offers Slate, which is designed to allow projection to excel in a bright environment at any budget. The maker says the technology eliminates the need to settle for white or grey screens by rejecting 65% of the room’s ambient light. Slate is made in the USA and is a flexible multi-particle optical screen offered in standard sizes up to 200in 16:9; larger sizes are available on request. Slate is available in Motorised, Zero Edge and Fixed Frame screen

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Essential Install

Essential ISE Review The capabilities of the NuVo platform including the P3500 player were highlighted

formats. SI is available in the UK from Anthem AV Solutions. Draper was also on hand to offer some inventive new screen offerings with the creation of TecVision Engineered Surface Technology. Available in five formulations to start, TecVision features white surfaces with gains ranging from 1.3 to 1.9 over very wide viewing cones and grey surfaces with strong performance under higher room light levels. “There are few companies in the world who are experts in designing projection screen surfaces,” according to Draper company president John Pidgeon. “Most screen fabrics are made by firms whose primary business is manufacturing textiles for other purposes. We’ve made a major investment in equipment, expert personnel and research time specifically to offer this line of revolutionary new surfaces unmatched by any other screen manufacturer in the world.” Bob Mathes, AV market manager for Draper, adds: “Rather than using ‘mass-production’ methods in order to minimise costs, TecVision screens are individually produced; each and every screen surface is individually formulated, programmed and manufactured with multiple checks for quality, consistency and uniformity from start to finish.” Arcam held a special event to mark the launch of the AV950, a brand new AV pre-processor which the company says sets a new benchmark for audiophile quality performance in home cinema installations. “The AV950 has been designed to provide the finest sound in home cinema,” says Arcam’s MD, Charlie Brennan. “It delivers a level of sonic detail and emotional connection that takes the listener to the very heart of the cinematic or musical experience. Installers will also appreciate the unit’s compatibility with current and emerging technologies, such as, 4K, the range of control options available and the product’s inherent reliability. Quite simply, this is Arcam’s highest performing pre-processor ever.” The video and audio stages on the AV950 feature integral 4K and 3D video capability and also allow standard and up to seven HD sources to be up-scaled to any resolution, where required. The AV950 includes auto set-up with room correction and can be integrated within whole house control systems through RS232 or IP. For simple systems, Arcam offers a free of charge iOS control App. 12V triggers and standard IR control options are also available. FM / DAB / DAB+ capabilities are joined by Internet radio and the ability to interface with uPnP audio servers. The USB port supports memory devices as well as digital audio from an iPod, iPhone or iPad. An on-board power supply unit can supply Arcam’s range of rSeries accessories enabling installers to easily add an Arcam rBlink for playback via high-quality aptX Bluetooth playback.

Multiple Possibilities If recent history has taught anything in the multi-room music category, it is that systems must evolve or die and fully cognisant of that fact, NuVo had some interesting news in the shape of increased integration potential with a number

28 Essential Install

of drivers for third-party automation systems. Available now are drivers from Vantage, AMX, Crestron, BitWise, RTI and Control 4, with more expected this year. The company says the move offers simple inclusion into a whole-house system for new projects or retro for existing customers. “Pursuing compatibility with automation partners and ensuring that integration is easy to implement is part of our commitment to both dealers and end-users,” says NuVo’s vice president of technology, Rick Kukulies. “These drivers have been developed in order to elevate the user-experience and provide high-performing, completely integrated audio systems in projects where both NuVo and third party systems are employed.” The company was also at pains to point out the flexibility available with its platform offering multiple interchangeable player options including hardwired professional series player options which power three zones from one single rackmountable unit. The new P3500 Player will play up to three different streaming sources independently in three zones and provide up to 200W per zone. The P3500 can be used alone, in conjunction with NuVo’s P3100, or in a system with NuVo’s single-zone wireless players. The NuVo platform is available in the UK from Habitech.

High Networth Networking was of course a huge part of the show and one of the companies showing its latest innovations was Pakedge (available in the UK from RGB). Pakedge offered an overview of its NP36 Network Patroller, a device designed to facilitate the BakPak Cloud Management Service which offers full off-site diagnostics and control of automation systems and components. Already a popular brand in the US, the company’s footprint is growing in the UK as installers warm to the convenience and level of remote control the BakPak system offers. BakPak provides full remote access to customers’ networks via an iPad, iPhone or Android device or web browser. Working in conjunction with the NP36 Cloud Appliance, installers can automatically discover then configure and manage Pakedge products and other manufacturers’ devices on the network. Installers can review diagnostics, uptime and downtime, manage network appliances, store and back up customer data and perform remote system reboots across multiple projects 24/7. Full project and system visibility is possible in an at-a-glance view from a single dashboard, without the need for port forwarding or DynDYS. The App enables installers to remotely power cycle the Power over Ethernet (PoE) ports on Pakedge switches and power distribution units. Installers can also establish pre-defined alerts to SMS, email or mobile push notification in the event of a fault to speed up troubleshooting and repair. Installers can store all their device profiles and settings on their mobile device for immediate access or back them up to the cloud. Available in the UK from Invision, ICE Cables presented its Clear Series 2 HDMI Cables. Installer friendly features

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Essential ISE Review

KEF launched no less than five new install speakers at the ISE

include a compact head design, GRIP connector with locking technology and the ability to handle 1080P/60 HZ up to 100 feet (30 meters) without baluns. The line is comprised of preterminated cables in lengths from .5 meter to 30 meters and replaces the company’s original Clear Series. ICE Cable’s unique GRIP connector attaches to female HDMI connectors with up to 15lbs of pull-force, reducing disconnected cables and service calls. The compact size of the head (measures 10 MM by 19 MM by 21MM) contributes to easier side-by-side and stacking connections and takes up less space behind equipment. Clear Series 2 achieves 1080P/60 HZ in runs up to 100 feet without the use of a balun, ideal for direct connections from Blu-ray DVD players and DVRs to a TV. Peerless AV was underlining the AV part of its brand name at the show, by not only showcasing some handy mounting solutions, but also highlighting some AV products as well. European MD, Gordon Dutch gave EI the tour and was keen to underline that the company was really hitting the accelerator in terms of introducing more AV solutions to its line-up. The new HD Flow wireless multimedia kit forms part of this strategy which offers a wireless solution for a wide range of applications delivering full HD 1080p to hard to reach locations without wires. The company says this solution provides streaming for digital and analogue signals from multiple sources up to 40m through floors, walls and ceilings and can also multicast to up to four displays. Suitable for commercial and domestic use, the unit can also provide some useful options in the rental and staging sectors. Featuring simple plug and play setup, HD Flow has five inputs and operates over the open 5GHz band, creating an interference resistant private network over its stated 40m (131ft) range. Peerless AV says the product can also broadcast its own integrated Wi-Fi (802.11n) signal with unnoticeable latency and without an additional wireless router.

Speaker’s Corner

Amina used the ISE to launch a dual channel variant in the expanding iQ series

30 Essential Install

No CI show is complete without some speaker innovation and offering some this year was KEF announcing the addition of five new custom installation speakers to the Ci Range. KEF’s says the latest suite of Q and Reference Series Ci home cinema speakers and installed subwoofers set another new benchmark: custom installed speaker systems with the acoustic performance of audiophile quality freestanding Hi-Fi speakers. The new tall rectangular range is engineered for serious music and home cinema system front, left, centre, right and side applications. The Ci4100QL in-wall speaker boasts a 100 mm

(4 in) Uni-Q array with three MF drivers of the same size. KEF’s ‘sit anywhere’ Uni-Q driver array, which places the tweeter in the acoustic centre of the bass/midrange cone, allows both the tweeter and woofer to act as a single point source, dispersing the sound widely and evenly throughout the room. For larger spaces, the Reference Series Ci3160RLTHX is a high output music and home cinema driver in which a 165 mm (6.5 in) Uni-Q array is complemented by a pair of 165 mm MF drivers. For high-quality sound, the Ci5160RL-THX extreme output speaker is built around the same 165 mm Uni-Q flanked by four 165 mm MF drivers. Both the Ci3160RL-THX and Ci5160RL-THX are housed within a rigid aluminium front baffle with a metal grille supplied – an optional black or white cloth grille is also available. KEF worked in partnership with THX on this latest range and the speakers had to endure approximately 500 THX laboratory tests to ensure that they performed at the highest standard to qualify for THX certification and the THX Ultra2 certification. In addition to the newly announced THX models, the range includes two in-wall subwoofers; one with four compact 100mm (4in) extended response bass drivers (Ci4100QLb), the other with three powerful aluminium 165mm (6.5in) bass drivers (Ci3160RLb). As well as highlighting the advantages of the rest of its hidden speaker range, Amina introduced a dual channel variant in the new iQ series. The product extends the iQ developer product range, aimed at bringing invisible sound to residential and commercial developers and broadening the appeal of Amina products into multi-room audio applications. Amina says iQ2 offers a cost effective solution for applications such as bathrooms and dressing rooms where one physical device is more than sufficient to cover such a space, but where stereo reproduction is still required. The company is also upgrading the whole iQ series of products to use entirely Neodymium exciters, making the products lighter and easier to install whilst offering improved audio reproduction. Using the company’s vibrational surface technology, Amina says the iQ series provides high clarity room filling sound with an even frequency response from 112Hz-20KHz, all at a price point competitive with good quality ‘dinner plate’ ceiling loudspeakers. The family now has three members, the iQ1 and iQ3 single channel products and now iQ2 stereo two-channel variant.

Essential ISE Review All have a front panel size of 16inx12in and a speaker depth of 1.6in. The iQ1 is suitable for bedrooms and other ancillary rooms, the iQ2 for bathrooms and the iQ3 for reception rooms and all spaces where higher clarity, louder music is desired including surround sound applications in MDU’s. With digital signage playing an increasingly large part in the event, BrightSign took the opportunity to introduce its 4K Media Player. The company claims the player is the first to deliver a true end-to-end 4K solution that accepts H.265encoded content and delivers 60 fps output via HDMI 2.0. The company says each of these characteristics is necessary to deliver a true 4K solution and it is the first to deliver on all fronts. Jeff Hastings, CEO of BrightSign, says: “Our BrightSign 4K player complies with the new standards to preserve video quality from encoding to output and support the complete 4K ecosystem, start to finish.” BrightSign says for content to remain 4K native and be delivered at the highest quality, video must be captured on a 4K-capable camera, encoded and decoded using the new H.265 compression standard at 10 bits/channel and fed to the display via HDMI 2.0 to preserve the original 60 fps frame rate. The manufacturer says any broken link in this chain adversely impacts quality. Elemental Technologies supplies the encoding horsepower required to deliver a 4K viewing experience and BrightSign says Elemental is the first to implement the HEVC specification with the capability of processing 4Kp60 H.265 content in real-time. The company’s award-winning work in HEVC video processing helps BrightSign create the high-quality viewing experience available with its new player. Also promoting 4K solutions, Atlona showcased its new BrightSign is one of the companies leading the charge towards 4K

AT-PRO-MXM-8 and AT-PRO-MXM-16 customisable, cardbased, modular matrix switchers. Designed for multi-room AV signal processing and distribution, single-point control for multiple digital and analogue signal types the units offer a flexible foundation that allows for future system expansion and upgrades. Available in an 8x8 or 16x16 configuration to accommodate larger and more demanding installations, the products are custom-configurable with expansion input/ output cards that satisfy a wide range of applications or system requirement. For maximum compatibility, the devices offer universal cards that support legacy signals including DVI, VGA, composite, component and S-Video, as well as balanced audio embedding. Additional expansion cards offer advanced connectivity options for full support of Ultra HD (4Kx2K) and DisplayPort. To boot, the switchers offer simplified control of connected devices and thirdparty control systems via IR and RS232, while Ethernet connections contribute to simpler setup thanks to GUI and TCP/IP control. More 4K capability came from Smart-e, with the launch of its digital 4Konnect range of modular products, each incorporating a number of 4K UHD transceiver modules for the 5-Play connectivity of Ultra High Definition video, audio, control, Ethernet and Inline power, capable of transmission over 100m of CAT6 cable. The maker says the compact size of each module means they can be integrated into a wide range of current and future Smart-e equipment. All modules can be externally fitted by installers, providing flexibility of on-site upgrades and future-proofing. Smart-e says robust and extensive testing procedures during manufacture provides reassurance and reliability, whilst each module has independent input and output processing capabilities and once connected to a Smart-e product, supports UHD Video, IR, RS232, 100BaseT Ethernet and remote power (POH).

More information Crestron +44 (0)845 8738787, www.crestron.co.uk

KEF +44 (0)1622 672 261, www.kef.com/html/gb

AMX +44 (0)1904 343100, www.amx.com

BrightSign +44 (0)1223 911842, www.brightsign.biz

Control4 +44 (0)1347 812300 www.control4.com

Atlona +44(0)1252 876300, www.atlona.com

Kaleidescape +44 0)1344 317970, www.kaleidescape.com

Wyrestorm +44 (0)1793 230343, www.wyrestorm.com

Peerless AV +44 (0)1923 200100, www.peerless-av.co.uk

Smart-e +44 (0)1306 628264, www.smart-e.co.uk

Habitech +44 (0)1420 540054, www.habitech.co.uk

Invision UK +44 (0)1359 270 280, www.invisionuk.com

RGB Communications +44 (0)1488 73366 www.rgbcomms.co.uk

CYP Europe +44 (0)203 1379180, www.cypeurope.com

Draper Group Ltd +44 (0)1536 203 101 www.drapergroupltd.co.uk

HD Connectivity +44 (0)844 3510190 www.hdconnectivity.com

AWE Europe: +44 (0)1372 729 777 www.awe-europe.com

Essential Install

Essential A Day in the Life: NV Integration

Better By Design EI met with Pip Evans of NV Integration at the company’s Belgravia showroom and discovered a custom install business carving a niche for itself by forging partnerships with the interior design community. In collaboration with interior design company, Staffan Tollgard Design Group, NV Integration operates from a 3,500 square foot showroom which showcases a range of technologies, fully in harmony with their surroundings. This approach is right at the heart of what the company looks to deliver to the customer. Pip’s journey into CI began by training as a sound engineer, which in turn led to work with a local install company and then a larger firm in London. Pip’s early experience shaped the way he wanted to go when eventually he struck out on his own: “I felt that AV companies could be a little abrasive when it came to dealing with other parties involved with a project. In CI we get excited about the equipment and forget it is going into someone’s home who whilst they want the end result, do not want it to compromise on the design. Working with a client’s vision of how their home should look enables us to make sure they can have the best of both, the right performance and the right look.” Right from the off the company involved itself in major projects, with one of the first consisting of a whole home automation/lighting system in the East End of London. Pip explains that this client is now embarking on a basement cinema and taking the roof off the building to create a new upper floor. As well as the cinema, the client will also be installing bespoke mirrored TVs in a gym, which the company finds fit its philosophy very well. Pip explains: “Clients and interior designers love the mirrored TVs, it speaks strongly of what we are trying to achieve in that they look great both on and off and the AV performance is there too.” Achieving the level of integration the company wants also means calling on experts such as conceal and reveal experts Future Automation. Pip says: “In the showroom we have

a fully hidden cinema which uses a custom built lift for the Runco projector. Working with Future Automation means we can always achieve the look and performance we need and the company’s creations give us the reliability we need.”

Current work Right now the company is involved in some major projects in London including a Crestron system going into a Georgian town house in Chelsea. Pip explains: “As well as Crestron DM, this project is having a complete Lutron Home Works QS system with Sivoia shade control. However, working on a Grade II listed property presents lots of challenges. We can’t touch the ceilings, so we need to be creative with the in-wall speakers to get the right sound. This sort of property can also present issues with cables runs and PIR sensors, but our experience and ability to melt the technology into the background, means we have ways to overcome the challenges.” Pip adds: “We predominantly use Crestron for these types of projects as it really delivers the control and reliability we need for our customers. However, where suitable we also use Control4 and are in the process of becoming Savant accredited installers. We think the new OS due for release is looking particularly good on this platform and we love the native integration with the Apple world and the speed of the system.” Another current project consists of a hidden-house new build in Hampstead, which from the outside appears to offer just one floor but in fact offers two further floors below ground level. This project is having a full Crestron automation system which besides all the usual suspects is controlling every mechanical and electrical service in the property including actuated windows, doors, shutters and even smart glass. In

NV Integration can cope with modern or period interiors with equal panache

32 Essential Install

Essential A Day in the Life: NV Integration

The company’s Belgravia showroom is a major asset showcasing fully integrated technology

the basement the company has also designed a high-end cinema system. Pip explains: “We have given the client a few different options in relation to the room layout; also as the basement is constructed with solid concrete walls, we have had to consider acoustic treatment to combat this unforgiving environment. “This client wanted a light and minimalist look, so creating the treatments we needed were not easy, but we came up with a few innovations to achieve the right result. One solution we have employed uses a curtain with an acoustic lining that covers one of the cinema’s 11 metre walls when the lights are down and the systems is in use, but stows away when the room is off. This is right at the heart of what NV Integration look to achieve, allowing the client to get the performance, but also the look they want.” Delivering great cinemas is a key part of the company’s work and to add to its abilities NV Integration recently attended the Pulse Marketing Cinema Design Course. Although the company does work outside of London, Pip explains that the core of the work is in central London and in fact many of the projects are walking distance from the showroom, great for customer support. Keen to give EI the guided tour of the showroom, Pip says: “We were involved with the project right from the start and planned out exactly what we wanted to include so we could show how the technology works with, not against highend interior design. “Sonance invisible speakers are hidden in the walls, the best sounding hidden speakers in our opinion and we also have technology integrated into room sets such as the kitchen, bedroom and living room areas. We have a hidden TV in the living room area and a 5.1 surround system as well as the integrated cinema using the drop down lift I mentioned earlier. “As the projector is fitted with an anamorphic lens, the cinema also uses a Screen Research screen with blackout bars for widescreen or cinemascope aspect ratios, presenting a Kaleidescape Premier Line system. In the kitchen we have another hidden TV and AV system this time using a moving panel to bring the TV into use. In the

bedroom we have in-celling speakers which were chosen as they are the same diameter as the light fittings in the ceiling.” Currently all the automation is run using a Control4 backbone with Lutron HomeWorks QS, but the showroom has been designed so the company can change this aspect should it be required as well as develop other areas of the space to offer different options to customers. Pip explains: “We are really pleased with how the showroom is working for us. It’s in a great location and really allows customers to learn that they can have the technology they want, without compromising on the look and feel of their home. Coming into a high-end space like this, gets the creative process started by demonstrating key features, making it such a great place to begin their journey with us and the interior designers working here. We can also use the showroom to put on events for potential customers or the design community and recently gave a talk to 50 interior designers about designing smart homes.” The upper floor of the showroom is where the company handles much of its day-to-day running. Again working closely with the design community is underlined as this is the same space where all the designers from the Staffan Tollgard Design Group work. Pip says: “Being in the same room as the interior designers here is a great plus. It means we are in constant contact ensuring nothing gets missed and information is easily relayed between us, the client and designer.” The rest of day sees Pip dashing off to a site meeting near the Kings Road and then diving headlong into a large proposal for a stately home refurbishment. There can be few companies which have found a way to mix the world of AV and design so harmoniously, consequently EI makes for the exit safe in the knowledge, the company’s clients are going to get the best of both worlds.” More information on NV Integration is available at www.nvintegration.co.uk, by calling +44 (0)207 205 2325 or via email info@nvintegration.co.uk

Essential Install

Essential In-Depth Product Report

Command a Data Andy Tait, director of engineering Europe Datasat, provides an under-the-hood look at the Datasat RS20i, the home cinema audio processor with its roots in professional cinema.

The unit can be fully integrated into third party automation and control systems

Essential Install (EI): Can you take us through some of the key performance characteristics of the product? Andy Tait (AT): “Datasat Digital Entertainment is at the cutting edge of cinema technology and it’s our job to make sure that our customers - and ultimately cinema goers benefit from the best possible sound and visual experience. Because of this business ethic, drive and passion; we made a conscious decision to bring the great sound that is produced in cinemas through our commercial audio processor into the home market and thus the RS20i was born. “This is a 16 channel, high-end audio processor with Dirac room correction technology incorporated into the unit as well as having a third octave and parametric EQ, high and low active crossovers for every channel, individual channel delays as well as global delay. The unit also boasts full automation capabilities as well as being a Creston certified unit. In addition to this, the unit also has all the main Dolby and DTS codec’s inside and now with the inception of a Auro 3D codec in Q1 of 2014 – I can safely say that our processor sits in a class of its own.” EI: Can you explain how the technology has transitioned from the pro world to the home cinema market? AT: “The unit has improved D to A converters, a custom designed linear power supply, the addition of bass management as well as additional decoders for Dolby TrueHD, Dolby PLIIx & PLIIz, DTS NeoX.” EI: Can you highlight some of the functionality that makes the product particularly suited to the CI market? AT: “Automation and remote control via RS232, Ethernet and GPIO. Dirac room optimisation only available via the installer and the flexibility of pre-sets. Installers can customise to suit the customer’s needs and can also gain remote access for diagnostic reasons.”

34 Essential Install

EI: Can you tell us more about the Dirac Live room optimisation function? AT: “The aim of the technology is to fine-tune the output from each speaker so that it is perfectly balanced for the acoustic behaviour of the room where each speaker is situated. In-depth room measurement and algorithms build a picture of the environment, which enables the technology to create compensations for sound interference and distortions. Ultimately, room optimisation corrects the impulse response of sound at the speaker.” EI: How do the 20 memory profile settings help the installer? AT: “The essential elements of the home cinema audio can be quickly and easily saved. Elements such as room equalisation, sound levels and input and output set-ups are captured for every type of content that you wish to enjoy through the home cinema system – movies, music, HDTV, games or live events. These memory pre-sets can be easily recalled at the touch of a button and can be transferred to a memory stick for safe storage and retrieval.” EI: What training/technical support is available on the product? AT: “Dealer training for RS20i setup and implementation of Dirac Room Optimisation.” EI: What features does the product have to make it able to adapt in the future? AT: “With the expansion bays on the back of the unit we are able to (with a simple card upgrade) enable the product to play all decoding technologies without having to replace the unit. Software updates also keep the unit up to date with all recent developments by our engineering team.”

Essential In-Depth Product Report have used the RS20i as the control system for a dedicated room to control lighting and masking of the screen - with great effect.” EI: What control options are available? Dedicated remote/App, etc. AT: “Full remote control from standard VNC client software, easily available for tablet and smartphone.”

The RS20i has made a successful transition from the pro theatre market to home cinema

EI: Bass is often the hardest thing to get right in a cinema, how does the RS20i help? AT: “Connections for up to four subwoofers. Either 4 x mono subwoofers or 4 x position specific subwoofers. Separate bass management filters for screen and surround speakers from 31Hz to 160Hz.” EI: Auro 3D audio technology is now available on the product, can you explain what it brings to the home cinema experience? AT: “Auro-3D is an immersive sound format, adding both height and overhead channels to the traditional 5.1 or 7.1 layout to create a compelling 3D sound experience. Auro3D has already been adopted by cinemas and filmmakers worldwide. Auro-3D content can be mixed natively in up to 13.1 discrete channels: the technology suite also includes an up-mix technology to expand 2.0, 5.1 or 7.1 content into Auro-3D.” )See EI’s special report on Auro 3D ion this issue) EI: How do dealers upgrade existing RS20i units for Auro 3D? AT: “Auro-3D can be added to existing RS20i via a firmware update.” EI: What other Datasat products is Auro 3D Available on? AT: “Datasat has just released the LS10, which is a 13.1 home theatre surround sound processor. Auro-3D decoding will be available as an option in the LS10.” (See this month’s product section for more on the LS10) EI: Does the unit integrate well with third party product and/or home automation platforms? AT: “Crestron integration is available and a remote control protocol document is available for custom automation. AMX and SAVANT also have protocols. Also with its very own detailed automation platform, the RS20i is a great automation tool for either master control or to be controlled. Customers

EI: Do you have any favourite pieces of music or film clips that shows the product of in its best light demonstration wise? AT: Master and Commander (the surprise attack scene). This is a detailed scene with lots of power and bass, that the RS20i handles with great ease and detail as well as the steering of that powerful bass.” EI: Do you have any reaction available on what installers think of the product? “With Datasat RS20i we now have the possibility to integrate all the sound medias (SD, HD, EQ, etc.) in one product and that with a performance, quality and flexibility we have not seen before.” Claus Glaesner CEO, Home Theater Professional’s, Denmark. “The RS20i’s is not just one of many processors available on the residential market, but a completely unique product which has a completely different approach to the market. This is the first time ever that a non-consumer company has released a ‘pro-level’ processor born from the commercial cinema market. That said, Datasat - who has a lot of experience and years of success in the commercial cinema market offers a real cinema processor to residential customers.” Oleg Lyugin, Techinterior Ltd, Russia. “The RS20i is the most versatile, best-sounding audiophile processor in existence. The RS20i explores uncharted territory in multi-channel reproduction. The system is designed to portray soundtracks and music as though you were sitting at the original mixing desk, it is a true reference, true-to-life design and there is nothing like it at any other price.” Core Audio Technology The Datasat RS20i is available in the UK from Genesis Technologies More information: Genesis Technologies +44 (0)7879 412280, www.genesistechnologies.co.uk

The maker says the unit has everything it needs to adapt to future developments

Essential Install

Essential Wyrestorm

ISE BREAKER: WYRESTORM WOWS EUROPE WyreStorm wowed and wooed visitors at this year’s Integrated Systems Europe (ISE) 2014 with HDBaseT technology and the unveiling of NetworkHD HD over IP and Enado control systems. More than 50,000 technology fiends descended on the recent Integrated Systems Europe (ISE) 2014 show to check out new AV and control systems shown by exhibitors including WyreStorm. “It’s good to be a part of the growth of ISE year on year”, says WyreStorm general manager Adrian Ickeringill of February’s show in Amsterdam. “With an ever-more competitive market, WyreStorm continues to strive to differentiate ourselves with smart distribution and control solutions. “This year we expanded our HDBaseT offering to over 37 products, receiving valuable feedback on our newly available HDBaseT Modular Matrix chassis and transmission cards and the award-winning D Class AMP-001-010 HDBaseT Digital Amplifier/ Receiver. We unveiled the NetworkHD HD over IP and Enado control solutions, with anticipation mounting for spring launches.” Adrian insists ISE, which attracts visitors from across the globe; is a key date on the WyreStorm calendar for meeting up with its growing network of international distributors from more than 40 markets. Not only can the team showcase the company’s new offerings, but see how it can improve service. “It’s good hear positive responses from our sales partners to our new products and on the evolution of the brand. It’s also great to meet with installers supporting WyreStorm from so many different markets and learn how they are integrating our products in projects worldwide.” The rapidly expanding South African market demands a flexibility that can be hard to achieve with typical distribution, even with the feature-set of HDBaseT, says Ivan Potter, from WyreStorm’s South African distributer iLED who feels WyreStorm has addressed this well with a customisable matrix solution. “The WyreStorm modular chassis enables us to custom build each matrix to match our clients’ requirements. This is a game changer in our market. Reduced stock holding and the ability to build to order are really exciting.” Meanwhile Habitech’s Timmi Thorsen says: “The new line up from WyreStorm at ISE takes HDBaseT to the next level with superb stability and feature sets promoting modular flexibility

Systems such as the MX-0808-PP-POH turned techno heads at this year’s ISE event

and scalability, which is exactly what the CI world is looking for. “The stand-out product for us is the Enado interface because it allows us to present all these virtues to our integrators in a complete labour-saving, web-based control package. It is simple to use and programme from anywhere and offers dealers and their customers powerful, user-friendly and versatile control in the home.” WyreStorm’s global product manager James Meredith sees the early adoption of HDBaseT technologies as key to its growth by enabling WyreStorm HDMI distribution products to quickly gain a reputation for ease of installation and excellent stability. The company plans to do the same in 2014 for integrated system control and IP video distribution with Enado & NetworkHD. “Enado will revolutionise system integration by removing the high overhead and often unreliable two-way drivers that are best handled by dedicated Apps and instead focus on powerful, easy-to-use control,” says James. “This features base technology that substantially improves and simplifies installation configuration and support, which is designed to open new customers to our installers and drive profitability throughout the life of the system.” Also causing a stir at ISE was the announcement of the company’s first HD Over IP solution, NetworkHD. Gerrit Ryan from Australian WyreStorm distributor AudioProducts says NetworkHD range will enable him to tackle a broader range of projects that he already supplies into, making it a good addition to the line up. WyreStorm’s James Meredith explains: “NetworkHD HDMI over IP technology removes many limitations of matrix systems. With an almost unlimited number of sources and displays and a unique web-based configuration experience, NetworkHD simplifies and speeds installation of large systems by utilising Bonjour auto-discovery of system components. “To add to the high-quality AV distribution, NetworkHD also features KVM USB, RS232 & IR pass-through, while delivering a simple-to-configure, install and support HD distribution network.” More information: WyreStorm +44 (0)1793 230343 www.WyreStorm.com

Enado NetworkHD control solutions could revolutionise system integration, reckons WyreStorm

Essential Install

Essential Pulse Marketing

After training installers can experience for themselves the level of quality possible in Pulseâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s own eight seat cinema

Cinema Supporters Pulse Marketing prides itself on the support that it offers installers. Barry Sheldrick, UK sales manager, explains some of the services on offer to take cinemas to the next level. Design and Specification Support is one of the reasons that our dealers work with us on more and more projects. Over the years we have worked hard to offer the best support possible, both pre and post sales, here are just a few examples of what we can offer. We can help with all of the design and specification for the room, ensuring that the correct products are chosen, taking any guess work out of the equation. We take into account the viewing angles when specifying the screen to make sure that the system has the correct screen size and, from that point, we will know the screen surface area. Combining the screen surface area with the expected level of ambient light in the room, we can choose the Runco

projector that best suits our ANSI Lumen requirements. It is a similar story when it comes to the loudspeakers. Once we have calculated the room volume, we can suggest the correct number of subwoofers and the ideal placement along with the LCRâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s (based on SPL vs distance requirements) and the right power amplifiers to drive the whole system.

The Best Dressed Cinemas Because Pulse can also supply cinema seating and acoustic panels, we can also help with acoustic design and complement the interior design with custom seating, bespoke to each project. The quotations we provide are also

Pulse can supply full CAD designs to plan the perfect cinema

38 Essential Install

Essential Pulse Marketing

Support and training from Pulse Marketing allows installers to sell up and take on more expansive and high performance cinemas

of understanding, our Introduction to Cinema course also attracts 5 CEU points. This five hour course has been designed to teach the principals of cinema, rather than being product specific and covers every area installers need to create the right performance. We also invite the attendees to watch a movie with us after the training in our amazing eight seat cinema. This really cements the knowledge learned throughout the day and helps the infectious enthusiasm for cinema grow, it is this enthusiasm that helps with selling cinema more effectively too. We have seen the size of the cinema projects that our dealers who have attended the training grow massively as they are more confident and better able to articulate just howgreat a well-designed cinema can be. Education is a vital part of the support we offer, it also gives our dealers more confidence and trust in us as a supplier to deliver on our promises to them.

Intro to cinema course: Areas Covered

tiered to give three price points, Silver, Gold and Platinum which gives a great deal more opportunity to up sell when the dealer is presenting the proposal to the client. These quotations are supplemented by full CAD drawings showing the viewing angles, sight lines, speaker placement, elevations and seating layout. These are incredibly useful and can save our dealers a great deal of time when specifying cinema as a part of a large house project.

Room Design and Layout Equipment Choices Loudspeaker Crossovers Subwoofer Placement Recommended Screen Size Calculating Throw Distances Projector Light Output Requirement vs Screen Size Anamorphic Lenses Introduction to ISF Calibration Acoustic Treatment Contrast Ratio Explained Different Screen Materials and Gains 3D & 4K- How and Why More Information: Pulse Marketing +44 (0)1279 647039, www.pulsemarketing.com, info@pulsemarketing.com

Get Pulse Trained The support is backed up by our very popular training course created after years of operating at the pinnacle of the UK home cinema market. Designed to bring a complete home cinema novice up to a confident and competent level

Pulse helps create detailed quotes for each project

Essential Install

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Essential Case study

HOLD TIGHT, HOLD TIGHT! CI specialists turn up in the most unexpected places such as a recently opened cannibal scare ride in East Anglia. Pixels’ managing director Norman Garland lived to tell the tale

The HoBs PiT ride uses BrightSign media players to generate HD video and audio and to control the ride’s scares and effects.

HoBs PiT is a new white-knuckle ride to the ‘dark side’ that cost more than £500,000 to build at Pleasurewood Hills theme park in Suffolk. It is the brainchild of world renowned special-effects expert Rob Ostir and voice actor Corey Burton. Both, who work on US theme parks such as Disney World and movie blockbusters like The Chronicles of Narnia, focused their creative energies on the theme park in Lowestoft last year. HoBs PiT uses actors and special effects to tell a grisly tale of cannibalism and murder among a group of trapped miners. The attraction gained instant street cred after the BBC slapped a too-scary-for-children 12A certificate on the ride and The Times newspaper gave it a fun factor of nine. Too creepy for kids, the walk-through and seated journey in an old mine shaft nevertheless attracted thrill seekers from the world of CI. Pixels, the UK distributor of the US-based full HD, digital sign and kiosk media player BrightSign, was one of the first to jump aboard. The 165-second ride came courtesy of Sean Alexander, a professional entertainer and illusionist who designed and

Effects hinged on BrightSign HD120 high definition media players with hardware interfaces and custom script programming

managed installation of the attraction. Sean approached Pixels last February with an outline spec for AV and sensory effects for the attraction, which immediately struck a chord. Scheduled for completion within a mere four months, the themed ride hinged on 12 BrightSign HD120 high definition media players with various hardware interfaces and custom script programming, all proposed by Pixels. The order was made in April 2013 and a month later all equipment, programming and documentation was delivered on time and ready for installation. Pixels managing director Norman Garland takes up the story and must be a sucker for punishment. This is not the first time Pixels has been involved with a project of this type at a leisure venue. The company has supplied BrightSign equipment many times to systems’ integrators and builders for all manner of entertainment environments. HoBs PiT, however, was somewhat different. A lot of BrightScript programming was needed to control and operate special interface boards between the BrightSign players and hydraulic valves, solenoids, power switches and motion sensors used throughout the attraction, says Norman. Pixels also encoded and tested the HD media clips specially prepared for HoBs PiT by Sean for a project as complex as the end result was scary. “It was essential to have the hydraulic valves, relays, sensors and switches specified for use in the HoBs PiT installation,” recalls Norman. “These were

Essential Install

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Essential case study hearted,” says Norman, who has checked out the video, audio effects, hydraulics and lighting, but has yet to step foot in one of the controlled cars. So much for public feedback: “From a technical standpoint our favourite part is how well the BrightSign players have been adapted to this application,” adds Norman. “BrightSign players are designed for digital signage. Pixels adapted the most basic BrightSign player to perform as a complex show-controller while concurrently playing high definition video and high quality audio.” Another satisfied customer was Alexis Camelin, the general manager of Pleasurewood Hills: “This ride is unique to the UK. It’s the first dark ride to combine a walkthrough and seated scare experience with lots to scream at in an old mine shaft.”

One of the hydraulic control boards: valves and solenoids are controlled by a single BrightSign HD120 media player.

interfaced to BrightSign players with special circuit boards made by HMS Electronics in the USA. These made it possible for our software engineer to write and test custom BrightScript programs for BrightSign media players before delivery.” Once installed, only minor changes to timing sequences were needed to complete the process, says Norman, who chose BrightSign solid-state media players for reliability, programmability and cost-effectiveness. Some PC-based and custom-designed media players are more expensive and require separate, costly show-controllers to produce a similar solution, adds Norman. Other AV equipment included LCD projectors and screens, used for best quality display of the BrightSign players’ media outputs. All the LCD devices used in the installation are reliable, cost effective and proven. Furthermore all the custom BrightScript programs were tested with samples of the solenoids, hydraulic valves, power switches and sensors before installation. “From a visitor’s stand point the favourite part is the truly scary and gory effects generated by the BrightSign players – definitely an adults-only experience and not for the faint-

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Essential Install

Essential Artcoustic

GIVE IT A SPIN, KIM He DJs techno music and is the creative force behind Artcoustic, here Kim Donvig is focused on what inspires the company’s creations and what is next for the Artcoustic brand. flat cinemas. Artcoustic was the front runner in designing cinemas around plasma screens, engineering speakers with matching sizes to the fast-growing screen market. This included the first ever L, C, R Speaker in the world, the Multi, which I designed back in the late 90s. Now every loudspeaker company has got one, unfortunately the patent I made was not very well written, but that’s life, we choose to look forward and not in mirrors.

Winsome ways: Kim’s design-driven approach has helped him hone the superslick form factor of Artcoustic’s 32-model line up of speakers

Essential Install (EI): What are you doing right now? (apart from filling this Q&A of course) Kim Donvig (KD): Lots of things are happening right now, lately I have been very busy with a live audiophile DJ session here in Asia, touring with our latest but not-yet-launched Stealth Precision 2-channel speakers and the Stealth T-60 valve amplifier. This has been a great way of testing and fine-tuning these new products. Some of the actual live sets can be downloaded on SoundCloud, check out https:// soundcloud.com/kim-donvig.

44 Essential Install

EI: Can you explain the technical approach to sound taken by the different main products in the company’s arsenal? Why do you favour certain technologies and what do they add to the offering? KD: Artcoustic has over the past two years made some bold moves towards designs and technology rarely seen in domestic loudspeakers. We have made a shift from full-range speakers with integrated sub cones to a high SPL sub sat configuration, the SL series, which is based on Line array technology. This gives us far more flexibility in both design and engineering. We also feel we offer far more flexibility to the integrator, with a speaker model for almost any job thinkable, but at the same time easy to install and calibrate. With the SL series we achieve several very difficult tasks, such as high SPL up to 130dB, controlled vertical dispersion and extremely low distortion, all without using horn-loaded drivers. This gives us a sound with attack, speed and transient response second to none.

EI: Tell us how and why you first got the idea for the Artcoustic concept? KD: The idea came to life 20 years ago while working for Gold Peak Group in Hong Kong as head of design and acoustics. I was introduced to the NXT and NCT concept and was experimenting with new ways of creating more ‘wife-friendly’ loudspeakers. But as much as I was excited about what the flat concept noise cancellation companies had to offer, I was disappointed with the sound quality. They just didn’t sound good enough. So instead I started to look into ways of using conventional transducers, but with a flat panel form factor and this was basically the early foundation for what Artcoustic is today.

EI: How do you go about designing new speakers, where does the inspiration come from and what is the starting point? KD: Music is always the starting point, all sorts of music. Deep down I am a jazz man but I also DJ Deep House and Deep Tech in clubs and bars around the world. This extreme contrast gives me an edge in how I perceive sound and what should be required from a modern loudspeaker. A good speaker should be able to reproduce all kinds of music, both acoustic and electronic and both at high and low levels. Unfortunately not many do. My inspiration is always in live sound, I find that most Hi-Fi speakers lack the transient response and sound pressure level to really reproduce live sound and especially in larger rooms. I would be tempted to take it a step further and claim that a loudspeaker will have to fulfil most of the requirements expected from a purpose-made PA speaker in order to actually do the job with satisfaction.

EI: What install project where the company’s products have been used are you most proud of and why? KD: There is not one specific installation I am more proud of than others, but I am proud of being the pioneer of

EI: Does your Danish background give the products an edge or character distinctive from other brands? KD: I guess so, maybe not so much my Danish background, but more the fact that I come with a design-driven approach.

Essential Artcoustic Our speakers are of the more minimalist Nordic-designlooking type, with an almost timeless approach. This gives us freedom to focus on new engineering breakthrough ideas, but within the strong Artcoustic form factor. EI: Explain the company’s approach to what it can offer aesthetically? KD: Without a doubt, Artcoustic has pioneered the idea of disguising speakers behind printed screens and other exotic fabric types, though I often regret I ever started that trend. As exciting as this is, it has also proven to be hugely complicated and we have spent years perfecting this technology. But this also gives us a much needed edge in the already crowded loudspeaker market and there aren’t really any other companies with such a wide range of interior-friendly speakers. Artcoustic boasts a 32-model line up, where most of them can be ordered with thousands of screen and cabinet colours including our ever-growing art portfolio. There really isn’t anything like Artcoustic; as we say ‘Your Choice - Your Design - Your Artcoustic’.

Recent bold moves in technology, rarely seen in domestic loudspeakers, enable Artcoustic to offer more flexibility in design and engineering, says Kim

EI: Installers have a huge choice in what speakers they can use, why should they chose Artcoustic? KD: Beside reasons mentioned above, the new SL and Spitfire Series has been designed and engineered as a modular system. All our models sound very much the same, based on the same drivers and crossover, but the biggest difference is the sound-pressure level. This gives the integrator a freedom no other loudspeaker brand can offer and still within the same size and form factor. You can pretty much use the same size speaker in listening spaces ranging from 3m x 5m up to very large areas such as public

cinemas and screening rooms. That in itself is a huge breakthrough in loudspeaker design EI: What is next for Artcoustic? KD: The new radically different looking Stealth Precision speaker is coming soon and we are working on a full line of wireless products called the Connect Series, all very exciting products at each end of the market. Beside that we are constantly looking at new ways of improving our existing products and never sit still. EI: What is your all-time favourite Artcoustic Product? KD: Difficult question, but if I should point at a specific model as a little star among the others, it has to be the 6-3 SL module. This configuration constantly manages to surprise us: the loudness combined with clarity and transient response is truly amazing and will fulfil most demanding applications. EI: Do you have any favourite music or movies to use when testing/designing speakers? KD: I mainly use music with difficult instruments, such as upright bass, which has a tendency to create problems in the upper bass. Lower mid piano music is an important tool, especially for tuning the mid. I enjoy music from the Swedish Esbjorn Svenson Trio, Niels Henning Orsted Petersen, Chris Minh Doky, all of which contain high-quality recorded male and female vocals. For electronic music I listen to and DJ names such as Claptone and Danish duo Lulu Rouge. More information: Artcoustic +44 (0)1245 400904 www.artcoustic.com

Essential Install

Essential RGB

Complete Control David Webster, chief technology officer of RGB Communications, explains how network control is right at the heart of the companyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s automation offering combining the power of the Savant platform with the reliability of Pakedge connectivity. As the worlds of AV and IT continue to converge, increasing numbers of the products distributed by RGB are dependent on network connectivity either for control or audio video content. This is especially true of Savantâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s advanced control systems as they are natively IP based and use wired and wireless networks to achieve the fast and smooth user experience which they are renowned for. In fact since all iOS devices are Wi-Fi only and Savant can employ these extensively as user interfaces, both handheld and permanently mounted in walls, the performance and robustness of the entire system is 100% reliant on the quality of the wireless network. For this reason RGB recommends that for any Wi-Fi installation used for AV or control (not just Savant) and that needs more than three Access Points (APs) to cover the working area, installers should always should use a wireless controller to manage them. The benefits of managed Wi-Fi are many and include; centralised configuring and monitoring, automatic self-healing Wi-Fi, smart adaption for changing priorities and a smooth and seamless roaming experience for the end user. While there are several managed wireless network systems available to AV integrators, most have come from

the professional IT industry and were originally intended to be deployed in corporate networks by knowledgeable network engineers. However, because AV integrators are often not familiar with the inner most intricacies of how networks behave, we believe there is an easier solution in the form of the new Pakedge C36 Wireless controller. Like all of the companyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s products, the C36 has been created by Pakedge to provide advanced and powerful features that are simple to use. When used with up to thirty of the Pakedge W6 or W7 series APs (for single or concurrent dual-band Wi-Fi respectively) RGB can help installers specify and supply a complete high performance managed wireless system. The Pakedge APs are available in four form factors; the unique low profile in-ceiling model (not a bulky on-ceiling type), wall mount, rack mount and weather resistant outdoor model, are all available providing a flexible and adaptable family to achieve reliable coverage in a huge variety of situations and different types of housing stock. The recently announced W8 series of APs adds the new IEEE 802.11ac standard for the highest Wi-Fi speeds currently possible. The theoretical maximum speed of 1.3Gbps is even faster than wired Gigabit networks and by operating in the 5GHz band only, 802.11ac avoids the speed

New high performance 802.11a/b/g/n dualband concurrent access point with auto-channel and user power control adjustment by dBm

46 Essential Install

Essential RGB

sapping congestion and interference of the 2.4GHz band used by most of todayâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Wi-Fi devices. This approach is ideal for customers who are looking for the most future-ready wireless network possible and will give installers an edge over competing products and technologies. For smaller AV projects, perhaps just using a few Wi-Fi devices such as the new wireless lighting keypads and dimmers from Savant (available in the UK from RGB later this year), then a single AP might be sufficient. However, using a low-cost consumer AP with poor performance and low quality, would be a false economy if connection problems (often exacerbated by the device being built-in to a solid wall that may attenuate radio signals) result in the lights not coming on (or off) when the user presses the button! Of course wireless components are only part of the customerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s network that needs to be managed. Assuming that users will not be capable of, or interested in, configuring their networks themselves, with the necessary advanced features such as VLANs and QoS to support all their needs, then there is an opportunity for integrators to provide such a service for them, maybe with a Recurring Monthly Revenue (RMR) attached. However, to remotely monitor all the network devices very simply, requires a new approach such as that offered by the new Pakedge NP36 Network Patroller. This is a site based appliance that detects and reports automatically via the companyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Bakpak cloud based service to the dealer, so ably demonstrated by the Pakedge team at the recent ISE show. The set up allows installers to view device health, power cycle devices, control PoE

ports and AC sockets as well as receive configurable alerts via email, SMS, or smartphone (Android or iOS) notification. The Bakpak system is an ideal way to save on support and maintenance costs and to reduce site visits offering green advantages to the business, but also delivering a continuity of service that clients will greatly appreciate. Importantly, once the NP36 is purchased, there are no ongoing subscriptions or licensing fees and even third-party devices can be added for a fully unified network management experience from anywhere in the world. Ultimately, if your AV project success (and profit) depends on building strong, reliable and manageable networks, then talk to us and learn how control solutions specialists can invest in Pakedge; the only manufacturer to have a complete architecture of advanced, high performance wired and wireless network products that are especially created for AV applications and preconfigured to be easy to use by AV integrators. More information: RGB +44 (0)1488 73366 www.rgbcomms.co.uk

New wireless network controller for a unified, secure wireless network, with smooth roaming and free from hassle and downtime

Essential Install

Essential HVAC

Hot topic EI takes stock of the main considerations when including HVAC in any project. John Corbin of Intelligent Controls (UK) Ltd, expert in the provision of integrated environmental control and HVAC partner to many CI installers, is very up-beat about the market: “Last year was a great year for us at Intelligent Controls. As a North Approved System Partner (major building control manufacturer), we are able to supply and fit any of the great library of North interfaces, which includes air conditioning systems such as: Mitsubishi AG150, Daikin, Panasonic, Toshiba and Hitachi, lighting systems from Helvar, Lutron, Legrand and Phillips as well as heating control systems from Trend, HeatMiser and many others. Equally, the North system is able to provide full control of under-floor heating, boilers and pumps without the need for third party systems, saving both install costs and time engineering interfaces.” John explains: “The most popular interface we provided last year was Mitsubishi air conditioning. The interface allows third party control of all indoor units, including adjusting temperatures, operating modes and turning the units on and off. All of North’s interfaces provide an intelligent link between heating and cooling systems, to prevent them ‘fighting’ and wasting energy. They also allow full integration to AV systems such as Savant, Crestron, AMX and Control4. “We are able to configure the North system to provide Apple/Android tablet and phone compatible web pages for end users to easily access all parameters, from light levels to temperature and blind control. There is also a room display module, available in various finishes.” As well as getting fully involved with a project in terms of installing the HVAC element, Intelligent Controls are able to offer integration consultancy to ensure the HVAC system can be accommodated into the plan. For either of these services installers can contact John direct at john@intelligent-controls.co.uk). John concludes: “It’s important to get us in early and ensure the specification for the HVAC allows for integration beyond matching protocols. Intelligent interoperability is easy to achieve, but requires some forethought and knowledge of the chosen systems. That is where Intelligent Controls come in. Our experience is invaluable and will save both money and time on your projects!” Environmental control specialist, Heatmiser has a brand new system available called Heatmiser Neo which is designed to replace an existing thermostat, giving the end user easy control over and remote access to environmental control from a smartphone. Neo is multi zone, using existing zone valves and is also well suited for under-floor heating with up to 32 rooms supported. Martyn Kay, director, at Heatmiser, says: “We have been busy at Heatmiser designing what we feel is the most sophisticated, stylish control system, giving ‘control from anywhere’ functionality directly on a smartphone or tablet. Heatmisers’ Neo System has been purposefully designed to ensure that upgrading is as easy as possible and surprisingly affordable.”

48 Essential Install

The platform controls heating and hot water simply by connecting the neoHub to the home network and installing the required number of wall mounted neoSats for display and direct control of the system as well as over the newly developed neoApp. The company says the neoApp’s intuitive design ensures programming and override commands are quick and easy for anybody to use and can make changes from inside the home or when the client is out and about. Different profiles can be created for the weekend, work patterns, months or seasons. The system will also automatically activate the heating if the frost set temperature is reached; keeping the property safe and dry without wasting any unnecessary energy. The neoApp also allows zone control to adjust different areas of the property independently. Keen to find friends in the install world, the company has released its communications protocol and has released a new neoAPl so that developers can write new modules for neoStats. The company also offers free training at its Blackburn offices and full phone support. Extra Vegetables is one company which has taken up the offer of creating a bridge between the system and the CI world in developing a two-way driver between Heatmiser Neo and Control4. Jane Scotland, commercial director for Extra Vegetables, takes up the story: “Extra Vegetables have been providing twoway integration between Control4 and the popular Heatmiser UH-1 and Heatmiser Wi-Fi heating control products for some time. The addition of the Heatmiser Neo driver extends the options available to Control4 dealers and their customers. “Heatmiser Neo is an ‘Internet of Things’ ‘Cloud Connected’ heating control system. Neo is equally at home controlling a single zone or a large scale multi room heating system. As befits a European designed system, it can also control separate hot water systems and its reliable mesh based interconnectivity is designed to cope with European walls.” Jane explains: “Designed from the outset with connectivity and integration in mind, customers can use both the Heatmiser Apps and their Control4 system to manage the heating in the home from wherever they are in the world. The Heatmiser Neo thermostats are a sleek, unobtrusive, modern design and are available in white or black to suit any interior. “The Heatmiser NEO offers a number of advantages. The Control4 integration communicates directly with the Neo Mesh Link hub over IP to provide fast and reliable communication. Scheduling can be managed both on the native Control4 interfaces and Heatmiser Apps with twoway communication between both. Heatmiser Neo also introduces the concept of heating profiles and these can be recalled via Control4 custom programming.” Jane also explains that URC Total Control integration is also planned for Q2 of 2014 for Heatmiser Neo which will enable Total Control installers to benefit from a similar level of integration. Jane argues: “Heating Control is increasingly seen as an

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Contents HVAC Essential Essential

Heatmiser neo is compatible with Control4 and more drivers are planned including for URC

The new EvoHome Zoning Manager for Honeywell systems is available through Sensible Heat

essential part of any home control project. Warmth, comfort and convenience are of fundamental importance to many customers. Custom installers are seldom HVAC experts so need reliable solutions that are easy to integrate with. Heatmiser Neo is an ideal solution for Control4 installers as it provides two-way feedback and control via Control4 and the Heatmiser Neo App.” Sensible Heat is a popular choice for installers looking for a partner in the HVAC sense and the company has been busy developing new ways to help integrators get the right results. Company MD, Dave Robinson, says: “There are some exciting new additions to our Honeywell Hometronic range which improve the aesthetics of the system and also now allow us to access a wider range of projects at the smaller end of the spectrum; smaller houses and apartments and also simpler projects that don’t need a full control system, but would like HVAC control with remote access.” Dave explains: “The EvoTouch Zoning Manager, which is a ‘little brother’ to the existing Hometronic Manager, has now been upgraded to a colour touchscreen and now supports 12 heating zones (up from eight zones previously) which now makes it viable for medium-sized properties. You could also use it as an independent user interface for part of a larger property, you can mix and match Hometronic Manager and EvoTouch in a single installation as required.

Just like the Hometronic Manager, the Evotouch works with the standard Hometronic peripherals and is fully supported by our WebManager and Web Interface products, so works with all our existing range of drivers for Crestron, Control4, RTI, Savant etc.” Dave explains that the EvoTouch comes a new web portal device, which operates from new Apps (both Android and iPhone), allowing remote control of heating at a lower cost. Also new is the unique Honeywell wireless Radiator Controller, which has now been completely updated, with a sleek new design, swivelling backlit LCD display and several new features. The product is deal for retrofit projects with radiators, the Radiator Controller allows houses to be zoned per room without disruption, in most cases without any involvement from a plumber.

KNX integration RTI (available in the UK from Invision) announced last year that it had become a member of the KNX Association, giving a commitment to ensure dealers have tight integration between the company’s line of control solutions and KNXcompatible devices including HVAC systems. “The demand for KNX compatibility is very

Honeywell Wireless Radiator Controllers are a good retro fit and affordable option

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Essential HVAC high, especially in Europe, where it is a very popular control protocol and we are excited to say we’ve taken the next step by becoming a KNX Association member,” said Pete Baker, vice president of sales and marketing for RTI, at the time of joining. “By becoming a member of the KNX Association, we’re demonstrating the importance of having full control and two-way communication with KNX-compatible devices, ensuring that RTI can provide dealers with effective control solutions in any residential or commercial project.” In other news which may yet have a bearing on the UK market for HVAC, headlines were made recently when Google purchased a company installers may or may not be familiar with called Nest Labs. The deal was for an eye watering $3.2 billion, yes billion, so clearly the company is highly valued by the Internet giant. Nest manufactures and supplies a series of home control products, attractively designed (not surprising as iPod creators Tony Fedell and Mat Rogers, are behind the company) which have enjoyed big success in the US market. A key product has been its smart thermostat which can be controlled from a smartphone and uses its intelligent features to ‘learn’ a customer’s habits and adjust the heating accordingly. The user adjusts the temperatures as desired for a few days and within a week the Nest is said to be able to build an efficient programme

and be left to the task on its own. The system also offers an auto ‘away’ mode. The unit is as easy to install as a light switch says the maker and can save as much as 20% on a homes’ heating bills. Control is also available on tablet and smartphone via an App. Speaking at the time of the purchase, Nest CEO Tony Fadell said: “We’re thrilled to join Google. With their support, Nest will be even better placed to build simple, thoughtful devices that make life easier at home and that have a positive impact on the world.” The last part of that statement is important as the company has already launched in the UK. However, currently the maker is only supplying its intelligent smoke alarm product in the UK and not the thermostat. The only response EI could get from the Nest was that the product would be available ‘soon’. If that means next week, next month or next year, is not entirely clear, but if launched over here, it could have some impact. In the US the company does sell to the public as a self-install, but also has trade accounts for installers, so it would be reasonable to assume that the same model would be repeated in the UK and with the muscle of Google behind it, the company could find some traction on this side of the pond.

If and when Nest comes to the UK, what impact will it make?

More information:

Nest +44 (0)808 169 2307, www.nest.com/uk

Intelligent Controls +44 (0)1342 717748 www.intelligent-controls.co.uk

Invision UK +44 (0)1359 270 280 www.invisionuk.com

Heatmiser +44 (0)1254 669090, www.heatmiser.com

Sensible Heat +44 (0)1273 475 834 www.sensibleheat.co.uk

Extra Vegetables +44 (0)20 8144 9354 www.extravegetables.com

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Atlona connectivity solutions are developed and engineered for the pros: the ease and simplicity that installers and integrators rely on, with the features that fast-paced businesses and their customers demand. We innovate switchers, extenders, and distribution amplifiers with longer distance capabilities and more flexible options for control. Our solutions are easier to integrate and operate, so classrooms or campuses, medical, hospitality, or digital signage projects, hit the right price points. Visit Atlona.com or talk to a Midwich Home representative.

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Essential Technology: Auro 3D

A Journey Into Sound EI was recently treated to a demonstration of a new approach to audio, which its creators believe will change forever the way an audience experiences sound. Since ‘surround sound’ was introduced to home cinema, its approach has in essence not changed, arranging speakers to create a linear field of sound which is then directed at the audience. A company with a history in commercial theatre and more recently making the move to the home market, Auro Technologies, has introduced Auro 3D, billed as nothing less than an audio revolution. The demonstration took place at Genesis Technologies’ HQ as part of a product launch for the new Datasat LS10 home cinema processor (see this month’s product section) which at this point is the only UK domestic product to be carrying the technology (along with Datasat’s other home cinema products including the flagship RS20i). The Auro Technology team was out in force to underline just how important the company feels this new approach could and should be. So what is Auro 3D? well basically it adds channels which allow sound to be delivered from special ‘height’ speakers in addition to the normal speakers found in a surround set up. The idea is to create a 3D sound field that behaves much more naturally and mimics how we hear sound in the natural world. Within an Auro 3D set up, sounds can come from in front, the side, behind and above as well as moving seamlessly through the sound field. However, there are obstacles to overcome in order to implement Auro 3D. Installers need to leave behind the speaker configurations of the past and embrace a new way of setting up. Extra speakers to take advantage of the extra channels are of course needed. Surround speakers and sub-woofer/s are placed around the listening area in the normal way, then the same configuration of ‘height’ speakers are placed high up on the walls and lastly for the full effect or the ‘Voice of God’ as the developers call it, a speaker is placed on the celling directly above the listening area. So, implementing the new technology into a new theatre is no real problem, however for established projects, the speaker layout would need to be re-designed. Installers could either see this as a problem or an opportunity to offer a new experience to all their existing customers. Configurations that can take advantage of the new technology can come in 9.1, 10.1, 11.1 and 13.1. What about content? Of course all of this would be Auro 3D surrounds the listener with height speakers and ones directly above

Auro 3D is looking to make the move from pro-cinema into the home

pretty futile if there was no content available with the Auro 3D algorithm. However, the developers are confident on this score citing the release of 23 high profile movies into theatres and onto Blue-ray this year with as many as 45 more in the process of signing up. Auro Technologies also points out that its approach can take legacy discs and give them an audio make-over to deliver an enhanced experience. Not Auro 3D proper, but the company argues, still an improvement of what would be experienced through a normal Blue-ray and surround set up. Taking a seat in the impressive ICE Cinema demonstration suite, home cinema supremo for Genesis, Neil Davidson, put the new technology through its paces. Some specially created audio content was used including a countryside scene with singing birds and tractors and a sequence where a helicopter flew over-head. The demo also used a scene from WWII actioner Redtails. EI has to say the demo was impressive, with the sound feeling a lot less ‘forced’ particularly in busier scenes, creating a genuinely natural feel and very immersive experience. The conclusion would have to be that Auro 3D is a genuine and significant step forward in audio technology, however this does not guarantee its success. As we know in the AV world, nothing is simple, particularly where movie studio politics are involved, so there is many a slip between a technology that should be given a chance and one that actually gains wide-acceptance. Auro Technologies points out that it feels confident it can get the industry on-side pointing to its deal with Barco in the pro cinema world to deliver the technology into 80 cinemas world-wide already with a further 300 installations confirmed. The system has also been adopted by several post-production facilities, like Skywalker Sound and The Dub Stage. However, there are competing technologies. Dolby Atmos also has plenty of titles and theatres (330 approx.) signed to its immersive format. Auro 3D however has beaten Dolby to release home orientated versions of its technology, so might have a slight edge there. The future is never certain in AV, particularly when it comes to formats, however one thing is for sure, audio will at some point make the leap to a more immersive and natural approach. More information: Auro Technologies +32 (0)1431 4343, www.auro-3d.com

54 Essential Install

Essential Asheridge

MoCA in motion Jason Dando, business development and projects manager, Asheridge Communications, tells EI why MoCA offers a powerful and affordable signal taming solution. Jason argues: “MoCA technology is the fastest and most reliable way of getting high speed Internet around the home without installing any new wires. Using existing Coax (TV aerial network) without any alteration required to the layout or distribution amplifier, MoCA signals pass from port to port on the distribution amp in the loft, so no changes are needed to how the house is wired. “The MoCA range offers the real speeds households need at on average 170MBps, where other technologies like Powerline quote 300 and 500 MBps, this just an ‘up to’ speed and not ever achievable in the real world.” MoCA was designed by Entropic, global player in semiconductor solutions for the connected home, specifically as a standard for moving HD video streams and high speed data around multiple points in a home (max 16 points). Jason explains: “Connected adapters work to form a Mesh Network with data taking the shortest direct path between adapters, e.g. from a NAS drive to a smart TV. Wi-Fi and Powerline are point to point devices, that send all data to all points and then the receiving devices have to sift through the packet headers in order to work out which data is meant for them. MoCA uses PQOS – Parameterised quality of service to achive a much more targeted and reliable performance. “Powerline cannot match the speed and reliability of MoCA and can only transmit to a maximum of two receivers and was only built for basic data movement (email and web surfing) where MoCA was built for the high speed demands of HD video and IPTV.” MoCA’s approach is also far better suited to the future argues Jason: “4K2K will be the great divide – As 4K services rollout then the amount of video data will be much greater. Even with the new HEVC codec, MoCA will be the only retro fit solution that can move multiple streams of video around the house without issue.”

Wi-Fi extension Many so called modern homes have just a single Wi-Fi access point that is struggling to cope with covering all of the property. As the number of devices that are trying to share the network increase (tablets, smart phones, hand held gaming, smart TV’s, plug in Wi-Fi repeaters, smart home gadgets, etc.) then of course performance is going to suffer. Jason says: “Range issues - dead spots at the points of the house further away from the router – upstairs, back garden as well as weak signals impacting on what can be done with video streaming or online gaming, are just a few of the issues end uers are going to face. “By using the Coax network, installers can add Wi-Fi access points around the house to create multiple Wi-Fi

At the core of the MoCA family is the Ethernet over Coax adapter known as the Echo box

access points all on the same SSID and password so mobile devices can move seamlessly through the home to any location. Separate Wi-Fi networks can also be setup, e.g. main house, children’s bedrooms, smart home devices, etc. A Wi-Fi access point at each main viewing point is the ideal solution, to support tablets and laptops in that location with the best bandwidth and quality of service.” Jason adds: “MoCA brings wired, shielded (PL used unshielded mains cables), that is not effected by neighbouring networks (Wi-Fi is now saturating homes with often 10 other networks visible and conflicting with each other) to the back of every TV in the home. So smart TVs and PVRs can use the same cable that brings the pictures, to bring the data in the fastest most efficient way possible without tearing up the house to add a CAT5 network. From each TV point, a full speed Wi-Fi access point can be created to give maximum quality of service and bandwidth to Wi-Fi devices in that room.” With the huge growth in smart devices, Asheridge argues a big opportunity is coming for installers. Jason says: “Consumers are spending a lot of money on new devices and products, but pay no attention to the one thing that makes them all work – the Wi-Fi router. Most homes have the same basic router that has been gathering dust for three or four years. In field trials we found users who said they were using 5GHz Wi-Fi because their new iPhone or iPad supported it. When we inspected the router, we often found that it was an old model that didn’t even support 5GHz! “So as we move forward, much more emphasis has to be placed on improving the infrastructure in the home as we hammer it ever harder with more devices and bigger bandwidth requirements. MoCA is the answer to the real problems that households face.” Asheridge Communications +44 (0)1494 794770 www.ashcomms.com

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Sonance VP boosts the quality of custom sound

IPAD4 AND MINI ARE THE PERFECT FIT…

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This Monthâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Essential Supplement

EssentialINSTALL

Lighting & CONTROL

Also Inside Contributions from RGB Communications, Control4, Helvar, Legrand, Lutron, QMotion, Rako Controls, Sun-Light Solutions, AWE and Invision UK

Essential Lighting Control

EI presents the latest news and views from the world of lighting and light control.

Illumination for the nation Legrand believes the four main drivers delivering growth to the lighting control sector are; energy saving to reduce the environmental impact, energy saving to reduce costs as energy prices rise, advances in lighting and control technology that are creating a golden age of creative lighting design/specification and demographic changes that have altered the way that people use their homes and the way they want to interact with them. Legrand says that every manufacturer is doing everything possible to ensure its products have a role to play – whether through installation benefits or post-installation energy savings and monitoring capabilities. What’s even more impressive says the company is that the systems are becoming easier to install and more intuitive to use. Richard Hayward,‎lead marketing manager, at Legrand, says: “It’s imperative that there is investment in lighting, especially as lighting is the key area of automation for residential properties. Yes, automation and multi-room music are viewed by many as the core of smart technology, but they are still just an option – something that is nice to have if budgets stretch to them. All homes though require lighting and by harnessing intelligent lighting solutions, an array of long lasting benefits, ranging from energy saving through to safety features for assisted living and onto to enhanced security solutions, can be easily and cost effectively unlocked. “The key areas for lighting spend are in the kitchen, living room and other family areas. Today’s developers are already investing heavily in these areas of the home, with many specifying up to six circuits of lighting in order to provide the necessary platform for smart solutions.”

58 Essential Install

Richard also underlines the importance of creating the right atmosphere: “Mood lighting can make or break a room, especially in areas where money has been invested on interior design. Believe me – the wrong lighting can absolutely ruin a £30,000 kitchen. “True smart lighting that can achieve, comfort, security, energy efficiency and full control is best achieved when the lighting design and control is considered by the developer and designed into the home. Can you imagine smart lighting control not being designed into a new commercial building? Homes are no different and the same considerations will be compulsory as our energy needs become more critical.” Control is of course an important driver. Richard argues: “The ubiquitous touch-screen devices that we have all become so attached to are used to make every element of our lives easier so the fact that home owners can now control lighting from their smartphones and tablets is a key factor in driving innovation in the sector.” Legrand itself is supporting the sector with continued innovation including a new version of the Arteor 10in touch screen which provides customisable screens for multiple users, new LED dimmer drivers and energy monitoring devices as well as the recently introduced Apps for Andriod and iOS. Legrand has a dedicated training facility at its Birmingham HQ to assist dealers in making the most of lighting control and the whole Legrand family. David Webster, chief technology officer at RGB Communications argues that wireless lighting control options are becoming more popular, particularly for retro fit. David says: “Current wireless lighting products tend to

Essential Lighting Control

Dramatic impact and easy control are offered with Savant’s lighting options

use either a proprietary RF technology or adopt an existing wireless network standard. A good example of the former approach is the new Lutron Grafik Ra 2 system now available from RGB, which uses the companies’ proven ClearConnect wireless technology to provide a robust two-way control system in the 866MHz RF band. While Savant have recently started shipping in the USA their new SmartLighting wireless wall box dimmers based on established Wi-Fi 2.4GHz technology, with international 230V versions set to be available from RGB later this year.” David explains: “The Grafik Ra 2 system uses wireless GrafikEye QS dimmers, RF softswitches, occupancy/ vacancy sensors, tabletop or wall keypads and Sivoia QS no-wires blinds to provide a comprehensive wireless lighting and shading solution that’s ideal for smaller residential or commercial applications. Easy to design, install and program the Grafik Ra 2 system can be used stand-alone, with universal remotes or integrated with all major control systems. The optional Lutron Home Control+ App allows users to control and monitor a Grafik Ra 2 system from anywhere via an iOS or Android device to provide convenience, ambience and energy savings. Full training on the design, installation and use of the new Lutron drag and drop programming software will be offered by the RGB Academy.” David adds: “Lutron’s proprietary approach has the advantage of being independent from a third party Wi-Fi network and can operate locally without one. As such it may appeal to property developers or to commercial installations where access to an existing Wi-Fi network may not be possible or desirable.” However, as Jim Carroll, Savant’s executive vice president corporate strategy and business development, argues: “Wi-Fi is the worldwide standard for residential and commercial wireless networking and this will affordably deliver the control capabilities our customers want by leveraging the network that already exists in their home or business.” Savant’s SmartLighting system can be used with or without a Savant control system present, but with full integration it will allow wireless dimmers/keypads to not only control lights but other functions too. Savant products are exclusively available in the UK through RGB. Lutron had a significant presence at the recent ISE event and showcased many of its wired and wireless window treatments.

Catching many installers’ eye at the event was the new battery powered roller blind solution, Sivoia QS Triathlon, which works with Lutron Pico wireless remote controls and can be integrated into Lutron’s HomeWorks QS total home solution. Lutron says Sivoia QS Triathlon offers installers and end users reliability, power-efficiency and performance in one, affordable package, with an impressive battery life of three years. The product solves the issue of getting power to hard window surrounds and can come in a variety of sizes right up to 2.5 metres. The units are easy to fit with just two screw points completing the task. Lutron also showcased a standalone Serena version that works equally with a Pico wireless control and is a good solution for blinds in a single space. To wet the appetite of interior designers, Lutron can also offer its Design Collections, a compilation of over 1,500 fabrics and materials, supported by a Design Collections Fabric App on iPad. Also worth noting for the retro-fit category is Lutron’s energy-saving Energi TriPak solution which is described quick and easy to install, requires no programming and is a cost-effective solution for almost any single space application. Lutron products are available from RGB and Armour Home. RTI (available in the UK from Invision) recently announced that the company has teamed up with Lutron to develop a solution that allows installers to integrate select Lutron RadioRA 2 wireless lighting system components into RTI’s control systems, while programming the devices natively from RTI’s Integration Designer programming software. RTI says the Clear Connect Interface Module (CCM-1) reduces programming time and lowers costs for installers, while providing users with a single interface for their automation system. With the CCM-1, installers can integrate Lutron’s RadioRA 2 components into any RTI system with an XP series control processor, including the new XP-4 with an on-screen display control interface and the super-charged XP-8s. The XP processors’ astronomical clocks provide the convenience of time-based events, allowing for automatic light dimming and turn-on. Users also have access to Lutron control through the RTiPanel App on Apple or Android. Philips Dynalite (available in the UK from AWE) has introduced a new addition to its Antumbra range of user interfaces. The AntumbraTouch, is described as a stunning panel that redefines the concept of minimalist chic, with numerous features hidden beneath its glass design including presence, light and temperature sensors. Via field effects technology, the panel automatically detects presence using a body’s magnetic field to wake

Lutron control is now available via the RTI platform

Essential Install

Essential Lighting Control up the panel with the wall-wash effect that Antumbra has become known for. An internal light sensor will ensure the wall light wash effect is adjusted to the appropriate level, when the user moves away, the lighting will fade. The panel also responds to a user’s selection with audio feedback and a built-in temperature sensor automatically can adjust the air conditioning when integrated into the network system. A single panel can have many different button combinations allowing for a consistent look throughout an install. Each button is configurable through the Envision commissioning software to perform a range of functions, including lighting, HVAC and blinds. AntumbraTouch is available in a range of finishes which can be selected to suit the end-user’s requirements, blending with architectural features and décor. “Alongside the exciting new AntumbraTouch, we’re pleased to announce that we’ve restarted our award-winning Philips Dynalite training programme which combines Philips Dynalite System Designer and Envision project training,” comments Craig Thorne, product manager at AWE. “As before, we’ll be offering all these courses to our registered dealer network absolutely free of charge. The benefits of our expertise and brand new resources will ensure our training is better than ever in 2014.”

Dedicated platforms

total lighting controls Mood lighting systems, recalling a pre-programmed scene at the touch of a button, offer sophistication, ease of use and energy saving, controlling all light sources and curtains and blinds, including dimming of LEDs. With seamless integration to home cinema, multi-room audio, security systems and with 'holiday mode' functions the Smart Home dream becomes a reality. Retrofittable wireless modules allow systems to be installed with the minimum of fuss and expanded later while CAT5 wired options cater for the largest of projects. With wireless/wired bridging even combined systems are possible. Controlled from stylish wall-pads, hand-held remotes, iPhone/iPad apps or even automated sensors or timed commands, the user has the power of control. Put simply, Rako offers everything a Smart Home needs from lighting control but with unprecedented ease of installation.

wireless | wired | combined

for further information please call 01634 226666 or visit www.rakocontrols.com

60 Essential Install

Joining the growing number of automation systems with their own dedicated lighting control platforms, Control4 launched a new family of wireless lighting control products for integration with its own automation systems last year. Suited to commercial or residential projects (retro fit or new build) the range is designed to offer a broad choice of energy saving lighting solutions including adaptive phase dimmers and combination keypad/dimmers, 0-10V dimmers for LED applications and configurable keypads for control. The control panels come in a diverse palette of colour and finish options, offer custom backlit engraved buttons and programmable status LEDs supporting customisable colour hues for at-a-glance feedback. Additionally, each new switch, dimmer and keypad includes an ambient light sensor to automatically adjust the brightness of status LEDs and button backlighting. The company says with its system creating and automating personalised lighting with virtually any mix of lighting load types is simple and controlling them from the Control4 MyHome App on a mobile device is even simpler. The platform allows easy creation of scenes for different applications such as returning home, entertaining, or going away, which work in unison with other parts of an automation project such as AV or security. Main components include the Control4 Wireless Adaptive Phase Dimmer which is made to eliminate much of the guesswork associated with choosing the right dimmer for a project and alleviates the need to replace the dimmer when the load type changes in the future. The Wireless Adaptive Phase Dimmer is compatible with a broad range of dimmable load types including most LEDs, incandescents, halogens, electronic low voltage (solid state) transformers, magnetic (iron core) low voltage transformers, fluorescents and compact fluorescents. The Wireless Configurable Keypads can be configured with two to seven custom-engraved, LED backlit buttons, using four different button sizes, for a total of 37 possible configurations. The Wireless Keypad Dimmer transforms a standard light switch or dimmer into a fully customisable keypad and dimmer, combining the dimming capabilities of the Control4 Wireless Adaptive Phase Dimmer with the flexibility of the Control4 Wireless Configurable Keypad. The Wireless 0-10V Dimmer provides in-wall control of four-wire 0-10V dimmable fluorescent ballasts and LEDs and the Wireless Forward Phase Dimmer delivers an economical solution for dimming forward phase compatible loads, including incandescents, line-voltage halogens and magnetic transformers. The Wireless Switch provides on/off control for virtually every type of load, whilst the Auxiliary Keypad provides an economical solution for three-way control of a load. Helvar is keen to draw attention to its iC Colour Control concept which offers a selection of enhanced products for which the ‘iC’ badge denotes colour control capabilities. Standing for Intelligent Colour, the first phase of releases focuses on delivering DALI Colour Control compatibility and Helvar in

Essential Lighting Control

The Elan Control platform now has a driver for Rako lighting

The AmBX system offers a whole range of mood and control choices for commercial or residential settings

the form of the Designer iC and a two-channel 35W LED Driver. The range will build to offer a complete colour enhanced lighting control solution, including support for tablets, smartphones and further multi-channel LED drivers. DALI Colour Control enables users to pick a colour in one easy step, decreasing programming time and the system only needs one DALI address reducing the cost of a full scale DALI colour controlled lighting system. Leviton recently announced the expansion of its line of architectural lighting control systems with the introduction of the Sapphire 7in Wall Mount LCD Capacitive Touch Screen Controller. The system is designed to provide an easy-touse, customisable graphical interface for controlling lighting and features an 800 x 480 WVGA backlit screen with 24-bit colour display, 130° x 110° viewing angle and a low-profile design in multiple finishes to blend with interior décor. “Leviton’s new Sapphire LCD Touch Screen takes lighting control to a new level of functionality and simplicity,” says Richard Westfall, vice president and general manager, Leviton Lighting & Energy Solutions. “The system integrates a sophisticated, full-featured capacitive control console with the ease of effortless drag and drop screen design. Sapphire gives our customers the flexibility of a customisable user interface with the convenience of native control over scene, room and enterprise lighting management.” Sapphire’s PC-based editor enables the intuitive addition and configuration of user interface pages for each control grouping within a room or facility. Once a page is added, Button and Slider Controls are dragged and dropped onto the page or tab. Installers can set up administrative functions, establish channel and group-level control functionality, set fade levels and fade time-outs, combine and separate room control and brighten or dim light levels. The system’s Button Control types include Toggle, Press/Release Preset and Scene. Leviton products are available in the UK from Aldous Systems. Rako Controls is finding many install fans with its provision of mood lighting controls with both wired and wireless solutions for new and retrofit applications. More complex projects may suit the wired network with centralised RAK units, or possibly combined systems giving a mix of both. Rako says its ability to offer wireless, wired or combined options means it can offer the best possible approach for any project and gives the safety net should cables be forgotten, or extra wall-plates be needed after walls are sealed. With controls for all lighting types, Rako concentrates on the challenges of dimming LEDs, offering products for direct control of lamps as well as trailing edge, 0-10V and DALI options for dimmable drivers. The maker also offers lamp testing in its lab facilities allowing

designers to be certain of dimming performance before installation and with control options ranging from keypads, remotes, tablets or smartphone Apps, there is a control option for everyone. Rako says it strives to not only provide first class products, but support as well with high class technical and sales support promising there is always someone able and willing to help at the end of a phone. Free customer training is another key benefit Rako offers its installers, running several courses every month. With dedicated foundation and hands-on advanced training facilities at its headquarters in Rochester, Kent, dealers can familiarise themselves with the full product range. The Rako team was also out in force at the ISE showcasing its updated iPhone, iPad and Android App with a revised user interface, personalised room, scene and channel naming - with images. Those users with timeclock units can now also set timed events from within the App. Also on display was Rako’s new wireless 16-scene dimmer – the new generation dimmer with more scenes is now easier to install with its wall mounting bracket, single ended wiring and the simplified set-up button eradicates the need to use a magnet. Rako was also proud to reveal its new blind and curtain range – from roller blinds to roman blinds – the products offer features like precise alignment, positioned control, software configurable end-stop, programmable speed control and soft start/finish all with quiet motors. Invision also recently released details of a new Rako driver for the Elan system enabling full two-way IP control of Rako lighting and blind/curtain control via a Rako IP bridge product. Control is achieved for both wired and wireless versions of Rako and the Elan system also has integration with the Rako timeclock module. Sun-Light Solutions, UK distributor of amBX solutions, is keen for installers to learn about the all new, digital, multiroom, amBX Light-Scene Engine available to the residential and commercial install sectors. amBX Light-Scene Engine delivers a new IP based, multi-room lighting control engine and has been designed and developed to transport intelligent and intuitive lighting control to new levels. Built on the established amBX lighting control technology and abstracted design model, Light-Scene Engine delivers fresh possibilities for interactive lighting and drops simple amBX Apps and user interfaces from AMX, Crestron, Control4 and DemoPad into the hands of the user. This extended and scalable system is well suited to controlling lights within multiple spaces in the home, meeting rooms, classrooms, teaching spaces, bars, clubs and restaurants, offering multi DMX universe support for the larger systems. Two versions will be available. Light-Scene Engine Ambient will offer control of static colours including white with the ability to recreate sunrise, sunset, morning sun etc all from multiple colours within a pallet. Ambient Light-Scenes such as Fireflies, Fire, Lounge Moods, Woodlands, Ocean and Tropical offering engaging movement of multiple colours around a space. This version is designed for controlling white lights and adding control of coloured lights such as RGB, RGBW, RGBWA around

Essential Install

Essential Lighting Control

QMotion has now launched its range of automated blinds in the UK and across Europe

multiple spaces within a building or property, such as whole homes or a suite of meeting rooms, classrooms or offices. The Light-Scene Engine AV will offer all of the above, but by using an audio and video input selector, the addition of Audio2Light scenes can be created such as RnB, Modern, Soul-night, Romance, Clubbing, Classical, well suited for media lounges, conference room, bars, clubs, VIP lounges, restaurants, reception areas, dining areas and houses of worship. Furthermore Video2Light scenes can be created which are good options for the cinema room, event spaces, clubs, digital advertising and reception areas adding a touch of drama. The new amBX Apps can be used on PC, iPad, MacBook for remote control of the lighting scenes for stand-alone systems. Also available is the new remote engine manager for rapid fixture, space, universe, light-scene set up from any location on the Internet. Remote management of the new processors is also available for diagnostic purposes. Key features offered by the new system include simultaneous and multiple light-scene control for individual spaces, full ambient, dynamic and interactive lighting control, full control of intelligent white, RGB, RGBW and RGBA lights (DMX) and direct audio and video to light control effects. The system also offers a choice of 256+ Light-Scene choices available and up to 256 selectable colour palettes per Light-Scene. Sun-Light Solutions also offers a growing range of LED lighting fixtures for differing scenarios, DMX drivers, PSU’s, solutions for disguising the LED flex, translucent back lit solutions as well as lighting design and concept drawings.

system and Honeycomb collection that carries forward patented technology and award-winning dual control features of its wireless roller shade products. The company says Honeycomb provides versatile usage with advanced fabrics that supply a thermal barrier to ensure shading solutions are fully compatible all year round. Also showcased was the QMotion QLink, a product which offers a linked shading system for multi-window coverage. Other interesting features offered by the range is a manual override for dual control, control can also be achieved with a dedicated remote or over iOS or Andriod devices. The company also says fitting is simple with a compact shade tube and bracket construction, allowing installers to fit window treatments efficiently without the need of re-wiring and exposed wires or RF antennas on display. The QMotion wireless motorisation with fingertip control technology has a simple set up after installation that can be programmed to learn the window’s height in one step and deliver personalised alignments. The system also includes a built-in safety stop braking system that prevents the shade from passing over the top when rising. Training in now available in the support area of the QMotion UK website including product and installation guides as well as step-by-step videos. All distributors receive demonstrations of the products as well.

The Natural Approach With installers increasingly calling for ways to control natural light as well as artificial, new UK launch QMotion is looking to offer something compelling in this sector with its range of automated wireless shading systems. Established already in the US, Ian Claxton, director at QMotion UK, says: “QMotion UK is now ready to set a new benchmark for automated wireless free window treatments in the European market by making the full QMotion range readily available.” The main focus at the ISE was on the QMotion roller shades which offer the advantages of no hard wiring to the blind site as well as compatibility with building or home automation control systems. Whether over dry contacts, RS232 or RS485, QMotion says its products can deliver. The company also demonstrated its new Drapery Track

More Information RGB Communications +44 (0)1488 73366 www.rgbcomms.co.uk Control4 +44 (0)1347 812 300 www.control4.com Helvar +44 (0)1322 222211, www.helvar.com

QMotion +44 (0) 845 450 1606 www.qmotionshades.co.uk Rako Controls +44 (0)1634 226666 www.rakocontrols.com

Legrand +44(0) 870 6089000, www.legrand.co.uk

Sun-Light Solutions +44 (0)7887 634990 www.sun-lightsolutions.com

Armour Home +44 (0)1279 501 111 www.armourhome.co.uk

AWE +44 (0)1372 729 995, www.awe-europe.com

Aldous Systems (Europe): +44 (0)1296 719582 www.aldoussystems.co.uk

62 Essential Install

Lutron +44 (0)207 7020657 www.lutron.com

Invision UK +44 (0)1359 270 280, www.invisionuk.com

Essential Training

Essential Training Every month Essential Install provides installers with a rundown of the key training events. If you have anything you would like to add to the diary, contact Daniel Sait on +44 (0)7814 859101 or email dan@essentialinstall.com

Training Dates 102: Systemline Modular Foundation DATES:

25th Feb. 11th March, 29th April, 13th May, 3rd June Bishops Stortford

LEVEL:

ENTRY

DURATION:

1 DAY

COURSE FEE: £150 LEVEL:

Entry

DURATION:

1 Day

COURSE FEE: £150 (+VAT) BENEFITS: • After completing the course you will be able to supply Systemline Modular Single Source, Multi Source and TunePlay. • Enter the world of the pre wire market and discuss new solutions that developers are interested in.

future upgrades in mind. Every product in the Systemline Modular range will be covered including, Systemline TunePlay. TunePlay enables the user to gain control of each zone, control iTunes via their Apple iPad/ iPhone and listen to the music stored on their PC. There will be a “Hands on” approach and we will cover a lot of terminologies used by custom installers in todays world. SKILLS GAINED: • Ability to sell multi room audio systems. • Plan, pre-wire and upgrade Modular systems using CAT5.

103: Systemline Modular Advanced Plus DATES:

26th Feb, 12th March, 30th April, 14th May, 4th June Bishops Stortford

• Pre wire hundreds of properties for a fraction of the cost of traditional distribution systems.

LEVEL:

ADVANCED

DURATION:

1 DAY

• Systemline Modular is not available without completion of this course. We will discuss the advantages of a CAT5 wired system and how Modular is able to distribute audio using this well known data cable. Using the single source and multi source, multi zone system you will learn how to pre wire with

Systemline Product Guide Download here: www.armourhome.co.uk/sysbrochure

• Termination of CAT5 to speakers, keypads.

• Expand your client base by including an affordable, easily upgradable multi room audio system.

DESCRIPTION:

NEW

• The LRN-7 and KPM7.1 are used in our practical workshop where you will configure a multi-source audio and video Modular system. Later we will introduce the Advanced TouchScreen Keypad, wireless commanders and discuss how RS232 control gives an enhanced user interface when controlling compatible sources such as the Audioserver and Arcam DAB tuners.

COURSE FEE: £150 (+VAT)

SKILLS GAINED:

DESCRIPTION:

• Multi-source multi-room audio and video solutions can be offered to your clients

• This course develops the skills gained from 102 and lets the installer offer multi-source Modular systems. We will cover aspects of wiring Cat5 for multi-source audio and video and also what considerations are needed for controlling each AV source.

• RS232 control and how this gives true feedback on display panels • Programmable IR handsets and IR macros to give you multiple commands from one button press.

For more information and to book: 01279 501111 // www.armourhome.co.uk/training

Do you have training dates you would like included in Essential Install? Send your information to dan@essentialinstall.com

T R A I N I N G

A C A D E M Y

Essential Install

Essential Training New dates

The Multi-Room Company April 2, May 28: Key Digital; System integration with Compass Control April 9, June 4: Centralite; Lighting management with Litejet April 16: Leviton; Essential home wiring April 23, June 25: Russound; Audio Everywhere. Comprehensive multi-room audio design April 30: Centralite; Lighting management with Elegance May 7: Key Digital; Removing the HD distribution headache May 14, June 18: Atlantic Technology; Five steps to home cinema May 21: Russound; C Series. Advanced audio distribution All the courses will be hosted at The Multi-Room Company’s Cheltenham offices by product director, Mike Bonnette and are free of charge to attend. Call +44 (0)1242 511133 or email mike@multi-room.com

New dates

Amina Selling, Specifying and Installing Amina Invisible Loudspeakers February 27 Central London, March 12, Huntington, March 27, Central London, April 16: Amina Huntingdon, May 22: Central London, June 18: Amina Huntingdon Training will last approximately five hours and include a light lunch. To book email to sales@amina.co.uk or call +44 (0) 1480 354390. Training costs will be £75.00 + VAT for 2014 dates onward. Payment is required up front in order to book your place. Attendees will recieve a voucher on the day of training, entitling them to £100 + VAT off their next order, valid for 6 months.

Control4 CAI

Control4 Training Dates: 11-14 March, 25-28 March

Basic Home Networking & Connectivity 11 March 2014 at Watford, 20 May 2014 at Watford, 29 July 2014 at Watford, 30 September 2014 at Watford, 25 November 2014 at Watford

All training is carried out at the company’s training facility in York:

Introduction to IRS 19 & 20 February 2014 at Watford, 23 & 24 April 2014 at Watford, 16 & 17 July 2014 at Watford, 24 & 25 September 2014 at Watford ,12 & 13 November 2014 at Watford Fibre Optics in Signal Distribution 26 February 2014 at Swansea, 12 March 2014 at Sheffield, 8 April 2014 at Watford, 17 June 2014 at Watford, 20 August 2014 at Sheffield, 2 September 2014 at Watford, 18 November 2014 at Watford SMATV & IRS Networks – Design & Build 5 & 6 March 2014 at Watford, 11 & 12 June 2014 at Watford, 17 & 18 September 2014 at Watford To book any of the courses above contact amanda.ward@cai.org.uk or call +44 (0)1923 803030

Registered Digital Institute Course: Registered Digital Institute 4G Interference and the solutions e-learning Dates – No dates Online e-learning course Course fee - £50 plus VAT for RDI members Description - This course is available for all RDI members to enable them to understand the issues associated with 4G, including the interference that it will create and to be able to confidently provide a solution for their customers when it begins broadcasting on the UHF channels in early 2013. Working at Height Refresher Course On-line module: Cost £60 plus VAT

4G Technical Course On-line Module: Cost £50 plus VAT Flat Panel TV Installation Cost £50 plus VAT DTT Freeview Installation and Accreditation Cost £50 plus VAT More details: RDI www.rdi-online.co.uk

Pulse Marketing Course: Introduction to Cinema ‘Introduction to Cinema’ is aimed at improving the knowledge base of both those new to cinema, as well as existing cinema installers. The price for this course is £95.00 plus VAT per person. For more information: Pulse Marketing +44 (0)845 5618884, www.pulsemarketing.com

Essential Install

More information and to book courses call +44 (0)800 1217702 or email tfallows@control4.com

Clarity Alliance AV Essentials - home cinema design and setup May 30, June 20, July 23, Aug 29, Sept 24, Oct 29 Network Essentials - Home networking for home cinema and Hi-Fi installations June 11 July 16, Aug 6, Sept 18, Oct 8, Nov 5 Audio Essentials - getting the very best out of two channel systems Dates to Be Confirmed Network Essentials 11 June, 16 July, 6 Aug, 18 Sept, 8 Oct, 5 Nov Venues are flexible, depending upon the location of candidates, but will be held within a 30-mile radius of London either in: south west (near Heathrow), west (near Slough), north (Milton Keynes/Luton) or north east (near Stansted). The price is £100 per person for Clarity Alliance Members and for non-members the price is £200 per person. The price includes a full day’s training, lunch and refreshments, certificate of completion. For more details visit www.clarityalliance.co.uk call +44 (0)20 8150 6741 or email info@clarityalliance.co.uk

The Custom Electronic Design and Installation Association (CEDIA)

4G Interference and Solutions On-line module: £50 plus VAT

Control4, Unit 3, Green Park Business Centre, Goose Lane, Sutton on the Forest, York, North Yorkshire YO61 1ET

CEDIA Technician EST1 Bootcamp: Feb 12, May 28, Sep 25, Nov 25 Health and Safety: Feb 13, May 30, Sept 29, Nov 24 Structured Cabling Workshop: Feb 18, April 8, Oct 14 Technical School and EST2 Exam: Feb 24, June 2, Sept 29, Nov 24 Residential Networking: Feb 25, March 11, June 3, July 8, Nov 25 EST2 Certification Exam: Feb 28, May 30, Oct 3, Nov 28 Designer Level 1 Certification Exam: Feb 28, May 30, Nov 28 Networking School: March 11, July 8, Oct 21 Advanced Residential Networking: March 12, July 9, Oct 22 Wireless Residential Networking: March 13, July 10, Oct 23 Intro to Residential CI and Integration: March 18, June 10, Sept 16, Nov 13 Introduction to CAD Design: March 19, Oct 16 CEDIA Structured Cabling Assessor: March 20, June 12, Sept 23, Nov 18 Wired for Technology: March 25 CEDIA Certified Presenter: March 26, July 16, Nov 12 Let’s Make Money: April 10 CEDIA Outreach Instructor: April 23, June 18, Oct 15, Dec 10 Residential Networking Specialist Exam: May 30 Home Cinema Design Workshop: June 11, Aug 26 More Details: CEDIA +44 (0)1480 213744, education@cedia.co.uk www.cediaeducation.com/home

Do you have training dates you would like included in Essential Install? Send your information to dan@essentialinstall.com

Essential Training KNX (Ivory Egg)

Rako Lighting

KNX Certification Course

Rako Foundation Course: May 9, June 6, July 11, August 8, September 5, October 10, November 7, December 5

January 20-24, March 10-14, May 19-23, July 7-11, September-29 - October 3, November 10-14

Rako Advanced Course: Aimed at installers with previous Rako programming knowledge May 23, June 20, July 25, August 22, September 19, October 24, November 21, December 16

This 5 day course takes place at Ivory Egg HQ, and finishes off with the required exam to become a KNX Partner. Essential Sales Training Programme Various Dates

All courses are free of charge although delegates are asked to secure their place with a £50 reservation fee.

Gira HomeServer training January 16-17, March 13-14, April 24-25 September 22-23, November 6-7

To book a training date please contact Sarah +44 (0)1634 226666 or email sarah@rakocontrols.com

***NEW*** KNX Heating Training - February 2014 - 2 levels available Novice Day Feb 19 / Level 1 February 20

RGB Communications

More information +44(0)1243-572700, info@ivoryegg.co.uk www.ivoryegg.co.uk

Savant Level 1 Core Training: May 20, June 24, July 24, September 18, October 23, November 20

Habitech/ProNet

Pakedge: June 19, September 25, November 13 Savant Level 2 Advanced: May 29, October 9

ProNet at Habitech HQ Alton: May 7 ProNet Level 2 - An Introduction To Networking: Habitech HQ, Alton: May 7, June 4, July 2, August, 6, September 3, October 8, November 5, December 3

Savant - An Introduction - CEDIA CEU Accredited: May 1, June 5, July 2, September 3, October 2, November 6,

ProNet Level 3 - Advanced Router configuration and management: Habitech HQ Alton: May 8, June 5, July 3, August 7, September 4, October 9, November 6, December 4

Middle Atlantic - Integrating the Rack - CEDIA CEU Accredited: June 27, September 5, November 14

ProNet Advanced and Ruckus Wireless: Habitech Showroom North West Design Centre, Manchester: April 23, April 24

Networking & Wi-Fi for AV Systems - CEDIA CEU Accredited: June 18, September 24, November

ProNet advanced (day 2): Habitech HQ, Alton: May 8

Audio Essentials: June 6, December 10

Wyrestorm Training: March 13, April 12 Habitech HQ Alton, 21 Caker Stream Road, Alton, Hampshire, GU34 2QA

Projection - The basics & beyond: June 20, September 12

Those interested should contact Lorna Jones: +44 (0)1420 540054, www.habitech.co.uk

All courses take place at company HQ in Hungerford, Berks. Contact details +44 (0)1488 73366, www.rgbcomms.co.uk, info@rgbcomms.co.uk

Eurosat Nationwide Roadshow

Invision UK

Many manufacturers introducing advanced product lines to incorporate LTE filtering alongside a host of exciting developments within the visual entertainment market

Available Courses for 2013: - Elan g! Level one

03 September 3 - Holiday Inn London Road, Ipswich, 6pm to 9.30pm September 5 - Cinnamon Banqueting Suite, London NW9 7BP, 6pm to 9.30pm September 11 - Exeter Chiefs Rugby Club, Exeter, 7pm to 9.30pm September 12 - St Leonards Hotel (Ringwood), Bournemouth, 7pm to 9.30pm September 18 - Aztec Hotel & Spa, Bristol, 7pm to 6.30pm September 19 - Cardiff International Legacy Hotel, Cardiff, 7pm to 9.30pm Sept 25- Midlands Branch, Argyle House, Walsall, 2pm to 8pm

- Elan g! Level two - RTI webinar - RTI intermediate programming - Pro control webinar - Networking theory and practice - Luxul

Please contact your local branch for full details, visit www.eurosat.com for local contact details

- Wyrestorm product and system training - Home cinema design All training (apart from online) takes place at Invision UK HQ, Alexander House, Unit 3 Hillside Business Park, Bury St Edmunds, Suffolk, IP32 7EA.

CYP

Full details, dates and venues can be found on the Invision training website: www.invisiontraining.co.uk or call +44 (0)1359 270280

Course: Authorised Demopad training workshops, CYP Europe September 16 - CYP HQ - Shepperton October 8 – Dawnvale Design Centre - Oldham October 14 - CYP HQ - Shepperton October 29 - CYP HQ - Shepperton November 12 - Dawnvale Design Centre - Oldham November 14 - CYP HQ Shepperton November 28 - CYP HQ - Shepperton December 10 - CYP HQ - Shepperton Dec 12 - Dawnvale Design Centre – Oldham More information: CYP Europe, +44 (0)203 137 9180, email sales@cypeurope.com or visit www.cypeurope.com

New dates

ACA Apex CRIS Installer Training Course Feb 13, April 10, June 5, August 14, November 13, December 11 This one day course is free of charge For more information and book call +44 (0)1525 379933 or visit www.aca-apex.co.uk

Do you have training dates you would like included in Essential Install? Send your information to dan@essentialinstall.com

Essential Install

Essential Products

NEW PRODUCTS A CANDY STORE OF CI CENTRIC KIT NEW THREE-ZONE PLAYER FROM NUVO NuVo Technologies has boosted custom installers’ options for configuring wireless multi-room music systems with a new high-power, rack-mounted three-zone audio player. The P3500 Player for the IP-based NuVo Wireless Audio System will play up to three different streaming sources independently in three zones and provide up to 200W of power per zone. When connected to the NuVo G100 Wi-Fi Gateway, the P3500 can be used alone or in a system with NuVo’s single-zone wireless players or existing three-zone player, the NuVo P3100. The system lets listeners play streaming and networked music sources using Apple or Android devices as the control. “The new player makes it easier for installers to satisfy a wider variety of needs and still give their customers all the convenience and flexibility of a wireless system,” says chief technology officer Rick Kukulies. “We designed our system to handle the highest resolution audio sources of any multi-zone Wi-Fi-based system. The amplifiers in the P3500 will let customers show just how good this system sounds at any volume level.” The NuVo Wireless Audio System can operate as a standalone multi-room system with up to 16 separate zones, or installers can configure it to operate as part of larger home control or home automation system made by other companies. More information: +44 (0)1420 540054, www.nuvotechnologies.com

The new P3500 player from NuVo Technologies is for its Wireless Audio System

HOME CINEMA HIGHLIGHT FROM ARCAM Arcam has launched a pre-processor that aims to set a fresh benchmark for audiophile quality performance in high-end home cinema installations. “The AV950 has been designed to provide the finest sound in home cinema,” says managing director Charlie Brennan. “It delivers a level of sonic detail and emotional connection that takes the listener to the very Installers will appreciate the unit’s compatibility with emerging technologies heart of the cinematic or musical experience. “Installers will appreciate the unit’s compatibility with current and emerging technologies, such as 4K, the range of control options available and the product’s inherent reliability. This is Arcam’s highest performing pre-processor ever.” The video and audio stages on the AV950 feature integral 4K Ultra HD and 3D video capability and allow standard and up to seven high-definition sources to be upscaled to any resolution. The AV950 includes auto set-up with room correction and can be fully integrated within whole-house control systems through RS232 or IP connection. For simple systems, Arcam offers a free iOS control App. 12V triggers and standard IR control options. An internal tuner provides a fully integrated FM/DAB/DAB+ radio solution. Worldwide access to radio stations is provided through the network connection, which also interfaces to uPnP audio servers. The USB port supports memory devices as well as digital audio from an iPod, iPhone or iPad. More information: Arcam +44 (0)1223 203200, www.arcam.co.uk

66 Essential Install

Essential Products

AWE has expanded its range of Samsung TVs AWE, has boosted its ultra-high definition portfolio with the addition of two Samsung UHD screens. The UE55F9000 and UE65F9000 are proving a resounding success in the high-end consumer marketplace, says the distributor. Sitting at 55in and 65in respectively, these screens bring the same 4K resolution to the CI market as their bigger brother, the large scale S9. “We’ve had the advantage of stocking the fantastic Samsung S9 and LG 84LM960V for several months now. While they still remain the flagship models for both brands, it’s also important for us to offer 4K screens of differing sizes,” explains Stuart Tickle, company MD. The Samsung UE55F9000 and UE65F9000 also offer voice/face recognition, gesture control and micro dimming, which lowers light levels in dark areas of the picture for deeper black levels and contrast. Together with Samsung’s flagship quad-core processing engine, active 3D playback is also supported alongside the inbuilt Smart TV system. More Information: AWE +44 (0)1372 729777, www.awe-europe.com

DAC WITH NO PLAYBACK FLACK

Users can playback computer music libraries and streaming audio from any PC or Mac

Denon has announced its first standalone USB Digital to Analogue Converter to improve digital audio quality. DA-300USB DAC boasts the same Advanced AL32 Processing and high precision 32-bit, 192kHz digital to analogue conversion technologies that deliver the high sound quality of Denon’s flagship CD/SACD players. The DA-300USB enables audiophile playback of computer music libraries and streaming audio from any PC or Mac via a user’s Hi-Fi. It improves sound quality of other digital audio devices such as media players, CD and DVD players, TVs and set-top boxes, Apple TV and games consoles. USB-B input enables computer stored music files or streaming audio from Internet music, video and film services to be processed and played via the DA-

300USB. The computer recognises the DA-300USB as an external soundcard, bypassing its own lower-quality audio electronics. Any digital audio format that can be played from the computer’s own media player can be processed by the DA-300USB including MP3/MP4, AAC, ALAC, WAV and FLAC HD (up to 24-bit, 192kHz) and DSD (the native file format for SACD; in 2.8MHz and 5.6MHz resolution). The 17 x 17 x 5.5cm DA-300USB can be positioned horizontally or vertically, using a supplied clip-on stand, to fit in easily with any desktop audio or Hi-Fi system. Orientation of the display changes with horizontal or vertical positioning of the unit. More information: Denon +44 (0)2890 279830 www.denon.co.uk

DAMAGE LIMITATION FROM INVISION Invision UK is to distribute Furman’s CN-3600 SE surge protector and power sequencer with SmartSequencing technology enabling AV kit to be powered on or off without risk of damage. The technology combines robust control capabilities via the SmartSequencing technology, advanced AC protection, AC noise filtration and optional compatibility with local power management. It is equipped with an RS232 port and command set for integration with control systems. The eight EIC power outlets are arranged in four pairs: three of the pairs can be controlled by RS232 to provide local power cycling of equipment via a control system particularly useful for Sky boxes. A future addition will be the RS232 to Ethernet adapter to allow remote power cycling as well as remote power and energy management via Furman’s new ‘Bluebolt’ platform. “We’re delighted to be able to offer this impressive solution to our dealers,” says Invision UK sales specialist Chris Dawson. “The ability to power on and off without any damage risks is obviously a crucial one, and Furman’s CN-3600 SE is the leading solution on the market.” More information: Invision UK +44 (0)1359 270280, www.invisionuk.com

SmartSequencing enables complex AV kit to be powered on or off without risk of damage

Essential Install

Essential products

MERIDIAN POPS THE CORKS FOR 25 YEARS Meridian celebrated 25 years of Digital Loudspeaker innovation at the International CES in Las Vegas at the start of this anniversary year. Meridian used the show to mark a quarter of a century since the launch of the company’s first digital loudspeaker and the first digital loudspeaker in the world, the D600, unveiled in 1989. Products ranged from the D600 to present-day kit and included the new-launch Special Edition series of DSP Digital Active Loudspeakers. They feature a beryllium domed tweeter, new electronics and driver clamp rings to deliver Meridian’s highestperforming DSP Digital Active Loudspeaker. Also on show were the G55 and G57 Power Picture this: Meridian’s Prime Headphone Amplifier & Prime Power Supply was on show Amplifiers. Meridian is re-introducing 5- and 2-channel amplifiers, enabling their surround controllers like the new G65 - also on show - to drive third-party passive loudspeakers. The G65 is designed to operate with the HD621 HDMI Processor. This separates out high-definition video and audio, increasing the quality of both. The launch of the G65 marks the 20th anniversary of the Meridian 565, the world’s first Digital Surround Controller. Meridian also exhibited the latest in its expanding line of personal audio products including the recently-launched Prime Headphone Amplifier and new Prime Power Supply. More information: Meridian +44(0)1480 445678, www.meridian-audio.com

AUDIO MEETS TV IN GENEVA

Model XXL offers home theatre sound and wireless streaming in a single cabinet

Essential Install

Geneva has blended its trademark minimalist design with full-range audio quality to embrace every element of home entertainment. Model XXL is a complete home theatre and music sound system with DAB and FM radio, Apple AirPlay and Bluetooth streaming, housed in a slender cabinet. The model connects home theatre and music players, smartphones and tablets with a discrete seven-speaker sound system. The slim-profile XXL comes in red, white and black lacquer finishes and at just over a metre in length is designed to host flat TV screens up to 65in. A full-length grille conceals storage space for cable box, game console, Blu-ray or DVD player. The seven speakers in five acoustic chambers are driven by DSP-tuned amplifiers generating a total of 589W. With seven analogue/digital inputs including 3 x HDMI 1.4 and advanced 3D audio processing, it captures TV, film and game surround sound from a choice of source components. Its high-fidelity audio performance will also get the most from phones, tablets and PCs and a range of radio options, all contained by a minimalist design in the classic Geneva

style. System control is through an easy-to-use handset and a clear LED display. Engineered in Switzerland, the Model XXL is Airplay, Bluetooth, FM, DAB/DAB+, speakers and amplifiers all in one. The design aims to generate the full-range quality and presence of today’s home cinema and music sources, but avoid the clutter of boxes and wires. More information: Geneva +44 (0)843 5236344 www.genevalab.com

Essential products

OPTOMA PROJECTS ITS NEWEST IMAGE

The latest LED technology offers consistent brightness and colour performance

Optoma unveiled a new full HD 3D projector that harnesses ground-breaking LED technology at Sound & Vision, the recent Bristol Show. Head of product management Justin Halls says of the HD91: “A huge advantage of this new projector is that it uses the latest LED technology, which offers consistent brightness and colour performance, maintaining its out-of-the-box image quality throughout its lifetime. “The perceived brightness from the HD91 can be twice that of an equivalent lamp-based projector. This means it can comfortably handle low levels of ambient light with less impact on image quality than traditional lamp-based systems.” Justin adds: “It will not have the inconvenience and cost of frequent lamp changes. It also doesn’t need lengthy warm-up and cool-down cycles due to its almost instant start-up and shut-down times. And because LEDs need less cooling than traditional bulbs, it is almost silent when it is running.” The 7kg compact size of the HD91 simplifies installation while full-lens shift and wide 1.9x zoom range ensures flexibility. Cinema, TV and gamer buffs will be able to experience 3D digital cinema quality in their homes for Blu-ray, games and TV through the new HD91 projector. The fourth generation of Optoma frame insertion technology gives advanced motion control processing that eliminates motion blurring or image judder. More information: Optoma +44 (0)1923 691 800, www.optoma.co.uk

NEW HOME CINEMA PROCESSOR FROM DATASAT Datasat works with movie studios and filmmakers to maximise use of digital surround sound

Datasat Digital Entertainment has launched the LS10 boasting fully immersive 3D sound with speaker configurations up to 13.1 when using Auro3D Technology. The processor delivers the clean, precise and realistic sound that filmmakers and artists intend and focuses on features such as Dolby TrueHD, DTS Master Audio and DTS Neo:X. The LS10 is also available as an option with Auro-3D. This enables both upmixing of standard content and decoding of native Auro-3D content, for up to 13.1 discrete channels of surround sound. In addition to enhancing the latest movie and music releases the Datasat LS10 enhances the enjoyment of game playing and streaming sports to become the cornerstone of a cutting-edge home entertainment system. Key features include 15 channels to enable configurations up to 13.1 with stereo sub-woofers, 10 band parametric EQ per channel for precision control, eight HDMI audio and video inputs and IR Remote and Network Control via VNC for iOS and Android devices. “Datasat works in conjunction with movie studios and filmmakers worldwide to maximise the use of digital surround sound on their movies and our audio technology drives movie theatres worldwide,” says group chief executive officer Ciaran Doran. “With our close relationship with Auro Technologies, the Datasat LS10 offers integrated support to the Auro-3D immersive sound format for home audiences to experience blockbuster movies such as Elysium and Ender’s Game as they were originally intended.” More information: Datasat +44 (0)1189 349 199 www.datasatdigital.com

LG BOASTS A WORLD-FIRST TV LG Electronics unveiled the world’s first 21:9 aspect ratio curved ultra HD TV at the recent International Consumer Electronics Show (CES) in Las Vegas. The 105UB9 premium TV is also the company’s first curved ultra UD model. It is officially the largest curved TV ever made. Its cinematically proportioned 21:9 CinemaScope screen enables users to access viewing information on the side of the screen without blocking any of the on-going action. It boasts an 11 million pixel (5120 x 2160) screen resolution. To realise the TV’s curvature, new technology was introduced to resolve issues such as maintaining structural integrity and delivering uniform colour and brightness across such a large screen. Until now, OLED panels were preferred for curved displays because they generated their own light.

LG Display overcame the challenge of uneven backlighting by refining its Thin Film Transistor (TFT) pixel circuit technology to prevent colour leakage and to ensure a superior viewing experience from virtually any angle. “LG Display has kept its dominant position in the display market with innovative and differentiated technologies,” says senior vice president Yong-kee Hwang. “With a resolution of 11 million pixels, the 105-inch curved LCD panel is proof of our continued leadership in the next generation display market, offering exceptional world-class value to our customers.” More information: LG Electronics +44 (0)844 8475454 www.lg.com/uk

Essential Install

RS2014A1.pdf

25/09/2013

16:07

DUE TO INDUSTRY DEMAND OUR SOUTHERN SHOW HAS EXPANDED AND IS NOW 2 DAYS! DON’T MISS OUT... BOOK YOUR STAND w w w. e ssent i al ins ta llliv e.eu +44 (0)1634 673163 C

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Essential INSTALL

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SOUTHERN SHOW

S A N D O W N PA R K ESHER, SURREY 1 1 - 1 2 Untitled-2 1

J U N E

2 0 1 4 28/11/2013 16:48

Essential contacts

Contact Directory Call +44 (0)1634 673163 to book your Essential Contact entry Access & Door control/Security Systems

Brackets, Racks, Support & Mounting Products (continued)

ACA-Apex Ltd

T: +44 (0)1525 379933 E: info@aca-apex.co.uk W: www.aca-apex.co.uk

Cave Products Ltd

T: +44 (0)1279 420529 E: sales@caveproducts.com W: www.caveproducts.com

Control 4

T: +44 (0)800 1217702 E: emea@control4.com W: www.control4.com

Ivory Egg (UK) Ltd T: +44 (0)1243 572700 E: info@ivoryegg.co.uk W: www.knxshop.co.uk

Legrand Electric Ltd

T: +44 (0) 870 608 9020 E: uk-wdsales@legrand.co.uk W: www.legrand.co.uk Brackets, Racks, Support & Mounting Products

Enclosure Systems at Canford T: +44 (0)191 418 1177 E: sales@enclosures.co.uk W: www.enclosuresystems.co.uk

G.J. Electronics Ltd

T: +44 (0)1303 814224 F: +44 (0)1303 814073 E: sales@gjelectronics.co.uk W: www.gjelectronics.co.uk

Habitech

T: +44 (0)1420 540054 W: www.habitech.co.uk

Harry B Litherland & Co Ltd T: +44 (0)1253 607830 E: sales@hblitherland.co.uk W: www.hblitherland.co.uk

HD Media Partnership

T: +44 (0)1242 580688 E: HDPartner@aceonline.co.uk W: www.aceonline.co.uk

ACA-Apex Ltd

Legrand Electric Ltd

Antiference Limited

MDA Designs

AVF Group Ltd

Milestone

T: +44 (0)1952 670009 W: www.avf.co.uk

T: +44 (0)207 0432926 E: andy.graham@milestone.com W: www.milestone.com

Bryant Unlimited

Peerless-AV

T: +44 (0)1525 379933 E: info@aca-apex.co.uk W: www.aca-apex.co.uk

T: +44 (0)1675 465487 E: sales@antiference.co.uk W: www.antiference.co.uk

T: +44 (0)208 4044050 E: sales@bryant-broadcast.co.uk W: www.bryant-broadcast.co.uk

B-Tech International Ltd T: +44 (0)1327 300787 E: info@btechavmounts.co.uk W: www.btechavmounts.com

Cave Products Ltd

T: +44 (0)1279 420529 E: sales@caveproducts.com W: www.caveproducts.com

T: +44 (0) 870 608 9020 E: uk-wdsales@legrand.co.uk W: www.legrand.co.uk

T: +44 (0)844 9099898 E: info@mda-designs.co.uk W: www.mda-designs.co.uk

T: +44 (0)1923 200100 E: sales@peerless-av.eu.com W: www.peerless-av.com

ProAudio Stash

T: +44 (0)1424 429641 W: www.proaudiostash.co.uk

RGB Communications Ltd T: +44 (0)1488 73366 E: info@rgbcomms.co.uk W: www.rgbcomms.co.uk

Essential Install

Essential contacts TDI

Artcoustic Loudspeakers

The TV Shield (A division of Ce-Tek)

Anthony Gallo Acoustics

T: +44 (0)1256 397770 E: info@tdigroup.co.uk W: www.tdigroup.co.uk

T: +44 (0)1298 872233 E: sales@thetvshield.co.uk W: www.thetvshield.co.uk

Vision

T: +44 (0)1604 662748 E: sales@vision-products.co.uk W: www.vision-products.co.uk

Vogel’s Products UK Ltd

Aquavision – Available from Invision UK T: +44 (0)1359 270280 E: sales@invisionuk.com W: www.invisionuk.com

Control 4

Sync-box

DLS Sweden

T: +44 (0) 1892 838860 E: office@eyestones.co.uk W: www.sync-box.com Aerial Distribution

Harry B Litherland & Co Ltd T: +44 (0)1253 607830 E: sales@hblitherland.co.uk W: www.hblitherland.co.uk AMPlifiers/Pre Amps and AVRs

iKON AVS

T: +44 (0)1299 250991 E: sales@ikonavs.com W: www.ikonavs.com

Habitech

T: +44 (0)1420 540054 W: www.habitech.co.uk

Yamaha Music Europe GmbH (UK) T: +44 (0)1908 366700 W: www.uk.yamaha.com Audio Visual Solutions

ACA-Apex Ltd

T: +44 (0)1525 379933 E: info@aca-apex.co.uk W: www.aca-apex.co.uk

Alltrade: SONOS, Celexon T: +44 (0)844 2252700 E: sales@alltrade.co.uk W: www.alltrade.co.uk

Amina Technologies Ltd T: +44 (0)1480 354390 E: inspired@amina.co.uk W: www.amina.co.uk

Essential Install

T: +44 (0)1555 666883 E: enquiries@anthonygallo.co.uk W: www.anthonygallo.co.uk

T: +44 (0)330 2020980 E: info.uk@vogels.com W: www.vogels.com Advanced TV

T: +44 (0)1245 400904 E: salesuk@artcoustic.com W: www.artcoustic.com

T: +44 (0)800 1217702 E: emea@control4.com W: www.control4.com

T : +44 (0)1555 667288 E : enquiries@dlsaudio.co.uk W: www.dlsaudio.co.uk

Elipson – exclusively from BBG Distribution Ltd T: +44 (0)1923 205610 E: sales@bbg.eu.com W: www.bbg.eu.com

Enclosure Systems at Canford T: +44 (0)191 418 1177 E: sales@enclosures.co.uk W: www.enclosuresystems.co.uk

G.J. Electronics Ltd

T: +44 (0)1303 814224 F: +44 (0)1303 814073 E: sales@gjelectronics.co.uk W: www.gjelectronics.co.uk

Harry B Litherland & Co Ltd T: +44 (0)1253 607830 E: sales@hblitherland.co.uk W: www.hblitherland.co.uk

iKON AVS

T: +44 (0)1299 250991 E: sales@ikonavs.com W: www.ikonavs.com

Legrand Electric Ltd

T: +44 (0) 870 608 9020 E: uk-wdsales@legrand.co.uk W: www.legrand.co.uk

Marata Vision

T: +44 (0)1923 495595 E: info@marata.co.uk W: www.marata.co.uk

Essential contacts MDA Designs

T: +44 (0)844 9099898 E: info@mda-designs.co.uk W: www.mda-designs.co.uk

The Multi-Room Company Ltd T: +44 (0)1242 511133 E: info@multi-room.com W: www.multi-room.com

MidwichHome

T: +44 (0)1379 646889 E: midwichhome@midwich.com W: www.midwichhome.com

PictureFrame.TV

T: +44 (0)20 81446060 E: info@pictureframe.tv W: www.pictureframe.tv

Pro Display

T: +44 (0)870 7668438 E: sales@prodisplay.co.uk W: www.prodisplay.com

Pulse Marketing

T: +44 (0)8455 618884 W: www.pulsemarketing.com W: www.homecinemagallery.com

RGB Communications Ltd T: +44 (0)1488 73366 E: info@rgbcomms.co.uk W: www.rgbcomms.co.uk

Smartcomm Ltd

T: +44 (0)1494 471912 E: info@smartcomm.co.uk W: www.smartcomm.co.uk

Smart-e Ltd

T: +44 (0)1306 628264 E: info@smart-e.co.uk W: www.smart-e.co.uk

Sync-box

T: +44 (0) 1892 838860 E: office@eyestones.co.uk W: www.sync-box.com

TDI

T: +44 (0)1256 397770 E: info@tdigroup.co.uk W: www.tdigroup.co.uk

Cables & Cable Accessories

ACA-Apex Ltd

T: +44 (0)1525 379933 E: info@aca-apex.co.uk W: www.aca-apex.co.uk

Alltrade: Coaxial, CAT5/6, Fibre, Speaker T: +44 (0)844 2252700 E: sales@alltrade.co.uk W: www.alltrade.co.uk

Antiference Limited

T: +44 (0)1675 465487 E: sales@antiference.co.uk W: www.antiference.co.uk

Armour Home Electronics T: +44 (0)1279 501111 E: sales@armourhome.co.uk W: www.armourhome.co.uk

Asheridge Communications Ltd T: +44 (0)1494 794770 E: crigby@ascomms.com W: www.ashcomms.com

Atlona

T: +44 (0)1252 876300 E: sales@true-colours.net W: www.atlona.com

Bryant Unlimited

T: +44 (0)208 4044050 E: sales@bryant-broadcast.co.uk W: www.bryant-broadcast.co.uk

B-Tech International Ltd T: +44 (0)1327 300787 E: info@btechavmounts.co.uk W: www.btechavmounts.com

Cave Products Ltd

T: +44 (0)1279 420529 E: sales@caveproducts.com W: www.caveproducts.com

Eurosat Distribution Ltd T: +44 (0)208 2084444 E: sales@eurosatlondon.com W: www.eurosat.com

FS Cables UkeuroAV

T: +44 (0)1303 844000 E: info@ukeuroav.com W: www.ukeuroav.com

Unicam Audio Visual

T: +44 (0)871 2262886 E: sales.uk@unicamgroup.com W: www.unicamgroup.com

T: +44 (0)1727 840841 W: www.fscables.com

G.J. Electronics Ltd

T: +44 (0)1303 814224 F: +44 (0)1303 814073 E: sales@gjelectronics.co.uk W: www.gjelectronics.co.uk

Essential Install

Essential contacts Habitech Ltd: Structured Cable Products (SCP) T: +44 (0)1420 540054 E: sales@habitech.co.uk W: www.habitech.co.uk

Harry B Litherland & Co Ltd T: +44 (0)1253 607830 E: sales@hblitherland.co.uk W: www.hblitherland.co.uk

Futronix Ltd

T: +44 (0)1883 373333 E: sales@futronix.com W: www.futronix.com

iKON AVS

Peerless-AV

Ivory Egg (UK) Ltd

RGB Communications Ltd

Legrand Electric Ltd

T: +44 (0)1488 73366 E: info@rgbcomms.co.uk W: www.rgbcomms.co.uk

T: +44 (0) 870 608 9020 E: uk-wdsales@legrand.co.uk W: www.legrand.co.uk

Solutions Group (UK) Plc

Marata Vision

T: +44 (0)8456 444000 E: sales@solutionsgroup-plc.com W: www.solutionsgroup-plc.com

T: +44 (0)1923 495595 E: info@marata.co.uk W: www.marata.co.uk

TDI

Rako Controls Ltd

Triax UK Ltd

Unicam Audio Visual

T: +44 (0)1923 200100 E: sales@peerless-av.eu.com W: www.peerless-av.com

T: +44 (0)1256 397770 E: info@tdigroup.co.uk W: www.tdigroup.co.uk

T: +44 (0)845 6010578 E: sales@triax.co.uk W: www.triax.co.uk

Vision

T: +44 (0)1604 662748 E: sales@vision-products.co.uk W: www.vision-products.co.uk Cables Management

T: +44 (0)1299 250991 E: sales@ikonavs.com W: www.ikonavs.com

T: +44 (0)1243 572700 E: info@ivoryegg.co.uk W: www.knxshop.co.uk

T: +44 (0)1634 226666 E: sales@rakocontrols.com W: www.rakocontrols.com

T: +44 (0)871 2262886 E: sales.uk@unicamgroup.com W: www.unicamgroup.com Distribution Companies

Audio Visual Material Ltd T: +44 (0)1252 510363 E: mnisbet@avmltd.co.uk W: www.avmltd.co.uk

ACA-Apex Ltd

BBG Distribution Ltd

T: +44 (0)1525 379933 E: info@aca-apex.co.uk W: www.aca-apex.co.uk

T: +44 (0)1923 205610 E: sales@bbg.eu.com W: www.bbg.eu.com

D-Line (Europe) Limited

Habitech

T: +44 (0)191 2360960 T: +44 (0)191 2360979 E: enquiries@d-line-it.co.uk W: www.d-line.co.uk Controls/Dimmer Switches

ACA-Apex Ltd

T: +44 (0)1525 379933 E: info@aca-apex.co.uk W: www.aca-apex.co.uk

Essential Install

T: +44 (0)800 1217702 E: emea@control4.com W: www.control4.com

KeyFibre Network Components, S.L.U T: +44 (0)7917 831971 E: keyfibreUK@keyfibre.com W: www.keyfibre.com

Control 4

T: +44 (0)1420 540054 W: www.habitech.co.uk

Harry B Litherland & Co Ltd T: +44 (0)1253 607830 E: sales@hblitherland.co.uk W: www.hblitherland.co.uk

Essential contacts Marata Vision

RGB Communications Ltd

Satellite By Fibre

The Multi-Room Company Ltd

Satsearch

T: +44 (0)1923 495595 E: info@marata.co.uk W: www.marata.co.uk

T: +44 (0)1488 73366 E: info@rgbcomms.co.uk W: www.rgbcomms.co.uk

T: +44 (0)1242 511133 E: info@multi-room.com W: www.multi-room.com

True Colours

T: +44 (0)1252 876300 E: sales@true-colours.net W: www.true-colours.net

UkeuroAV

T: +44 (0)1303 844000 E: info@ukeuroav.com W: www.ukeuroav.com Fibre Optics Solutions/Repairs

ACA-Apex Ltd

T: +44 (0)1525 379933 E: info@aca-apex.co.uk W: www.aca-apex.co.uk

Aerials & Cable Equipment Ltd T: +44 (0)1242 511511 E: sales@aceonline.co.uk W: www.aceonline.co.uk

Alltrade: Global, Fracarro, Televes T: +44 (0)844 2252700 E: sales@alltrade.co.uk W: www.alltrade.co.uk

Asheridge Communications Ltd T: +44 (0)1494 794770 E: crigby@ascomms.com W: www.ashcomms.com

Cave Products Ltd

T: +44 (0)1279 420529 E: sales@caveproducts.com W: www.caveproducts.com

Eurosat Distribution Ltd T: +44 (0)208 2084444 E: sales@eurosatlondon.com W: www.eurosat.com

KeyFibre Network Components, S.L.U T: +44 (0)7917 831971 E: keyfibreUK@keyfibre.com W: www.keyfibre.com

T: +44 (0)1488 73366 E: info@rgbcomms.co.uk W: www.rgbcomms.co.uk

T: +44 (0)845 6430144 E: sales@satellitebyfibre.co.uk W: www.satellitebyfibre.co.uk

T: +44 (0)845 6430144 E: sales@satsearch.co.uk W: www.satsearch.co.uk

Solutions Group (UK) Plc T: +44 (0)8456 444000 E: sales@solutionsgroup-plc.com W: www.solutionsgroup-plc.com

TDI

T: +44 (0)1256 397770 E: info@tdigroup.co.uk W: www.tdigroup.co.uk Home cinema seating & AV Furniture

Ateca - exclusively from BBG Distribution Ltd T: +44 (0)1923 205610 E: sales@bbg.eu.com W: www.bbg.eu.com

B-Tech International Ltd T: +44 (0)1327 300787 E: info@btechavmounts.co.uk W: www.btechavmounts.com

Cineak

T: +32 3 3540366 E: info@cineak.eu W: www.cineak.com

G.J. Electronics Ltd

T: +44 (0)1303 814224 F: +44 (0)1303 814073 E: sales@gjelectronics.co.uk W: www.gjelectronics.co.uk

Habitech

T: +44 (0)1420 540054 W: www.habitech.co.uk

MDA Designs

T: +44 (0)844 9099898 E: info@mda-designs.co.uk W: www.mda-designs.co.uk

Milestone

T: +44 (0)207 0432926 E: andy.graham@milestone.com W: www.milestone.com

Essential Install

Essential contacts Norstone - exclusively from BBG Distribution Ltd T: +44 (0)1923 205610 E: sales@bbg.eu.com W: www.bbg.eu.com

Antiference Limited

T: +44 (0)1675 465487 E: sales@antiference.co.uk W: www.antiference.co.uk

Asheridge Communications Ltd Peerless-AV

T: +44 (0)1923 200100 E: sales@peerless-av.eu.com W: www.peerless-av.com

T: +44 (0)1494 794770 E: crigby@ascomms.com W: www.ashcomms.com

Atlona PictureFrame.TV

T: +44 (0)20 81446060 E: info@pictureframe.tv W: www.pictureframe.tv

Pulse Marketing

T: +44 (0)845 5618884 W: www.pulsemarketing.com W: www.homecinemagallery.com

The TV Shield (A division of Ce-Tek) T: +44 (0)1298 872233 E: sales@thetvshield.co.uk W: www.thetvshield.co.uk

Unicam Audio Visual

T: +44 (0)871 2262886 E: sales.uk@unicamgroup.com W: www.unicamgroup.com

Vogelâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Products UK Ltd T: +44 (0)330 2020980 E: info.uk@vogels.com W: www.vogels.com Custome Install/AV Manufacturers

The Multi-Room Company Ltd

T: +44 (0)1252 876300 E: sales@true-colours.net W: www.atlona.com

Eurosat Distribution Ltd T: +44 (0)208 2084444 E: sales@eurosatlondon.com W: www.eurosat.com

G.J. Electronics Ltd

T: +44 (0)1303 814224 F: +44 (0)1303 814073 E: sales@gjelectronics.co.uk W: www.gjelectronics.co.uk

Habitech

T: +44 (0)1420 540054 W: www.habitech.co.uk

Harry B Litherland & Co Ltd T: +44 (0)1253 607830 E: sales@hblitherland.co.uk W: www.hblitherland.co.uk

HD Connectivity Ltd

T: +44 (0)1684 576 348 E: tradesupport@hdconnectivity.com W: www.hdconnectivity.com/trade

T: +44 (0)1242 511133 E: info@multi-room.com W: www.multi-room.com

HD Media Partnership

KeyFibre Network Components, S.L.U

RGB Communications Ltd

FTTH Networks

T: +44 (0)7917 831971 E: keyfibreUK@keyfibre.com W: www.keyfibre.com HDMI & HDMI Distribution

Aldous Systems (Europe) Ltd T: +44 (0)1296 719582 E: sales@aldoussystems.co.uk W: www.aldoussystems.co.uk

Alltrade: CYP, Triax, Antiference T: +44 (0)844 2252700 E: sales@alltrade.co.uk W: www.alltrade.co.uk

T: +44 (0)1242 580688 E: HDPartner@aceonline.co.uk W: www.aceonline.co.uk

T: +44 (0)1488 73366 E: info@rgbcomms.co.uk W: www.rgbcomms.co.uk

Smart-e Ltd

T: +44 (0)1306 628264 E: info@smart-e.co.uk W: www.smart-e.co.uk

Solutions Group (UK) Plc T: +44 (0)8456 444000 E: sales@solutionsgroup-plc.com W: www.solutionsgroup-plc.com

TDI

T: +44 (0)1256 397770 E: info@tdigroup.co.uk W: www.tdigroup.co.uk

Essential Install

Essential contacts Triax UK Ltd

iKON AVS

Unicam Audio Visual

Ivory Egg (UK) Ltd

T: +44 (0)845 6010578 E: sales@triax.co.uk W: www.triax.co.uk

T: +44 (0)871 2262886 E: sales.uk@unicamgroup.com W: www.unicamgroup.com

Wyrestorm Technologies Europe Ltd T: +44 (0)1793 230343 M: +44 (0)7921 003954 W: www.wyrestorm.eu

Home Automation & multi-room systems

ACA-Apex Ltd

T: +44 (0)1525 379933 E: info@aca-apex.co.uk W: www.aca-apex.co.uk

Aldous Systems (Europe) Ltd T: +44 (0)1296 719582 E: sales@aldoussystems.co.uk W: www.aldoussystems.co.uk

Amina Technologies Ltd T: +44 (0)1480 354390 E: inspired@amina.co.uk W: www.amina.co.uk

Armour Home Electronics T: +44 (0)1279 501111 E: sales@armourhome.co.uk W: www.armourhome.co.uk

Artcoustic Loudspeakers T: +44 (0)1245 400904 E: salesuk@artcoustic.com W: www.artcoustic.com

Genesis Technologies

T: +44 (0)203 2394120 E: info@genesistechnologies.co.uk W: www.genesistechnologies.co.uk

Habitech

T: +44 (0)1420 540054 W: www.habitech.co.uk

Habitech Ltd: NuVo Technologies; ControlFX, Vision HD T: +44 (0)1420 540054 E: sales@habitech.co.uk W: www.habitech.co.uk

HD Connectivity Ltd

T: +44 (0)1684 576 348 E: tradesupport@hdconnectivity.com W: www.hdconnectivity.com/trade

T: +44 (0)1299 250991 E: sales@ikonavs.com W: www.ikonavs.co

T: +44 (0)1243 572700 E: info@ivoryegg.co.uk W: www.knxshop.co.uk

Legrand Electric Ltd

T: +44 (0) 870 608 9020 E: uk-wdsales@legrand.co.uk W: www.legrand.co.uk

The Multi-Room Company Ltd T: +44 (0)1242 511133 E: info@multi-room.com W: www.multi-room.com

Marata Vision

T: +44 (0)1923 495595 E: info@marata.co.uk W: www.marata.co.uk

MidwichHome

T: +44 (0)1379 646889 E: midwichhome@midwich.com W: www.midwichhome.com

Pulse Marketing

T: +44 (0)8455 618884 W: www.pulsemarketing.com W: www.homecinemagallery.com

RGB Communications Ltd T: +44 (0)1488 73366 E: info@rgbcomms.co.uk W: www.rgbcomms.co.uk

Smartcomm Ltd

T: +44 (0)1494 471912 E: info@smartcomm.co.uk W: www.smartcomm.co.uk

Smart-e Ltd

T: +44 (0)1306 628264 E: info@smart-e.co.uk W: www.smart-e.co.uk

UkeuroAV

T: +44 (0)1303 844000 E: info@ukeuroav.com W: www.ukeuroav.com

Unicam Audio Visual

T: +44 (0)871 2262886 E: sales.uk@unicamgroup.com W: www.unicamgroup.com

Uvem Limited

T: +44 (0)845 4561220 E: info@uvem.com W: www.uvem.com

Essential Install

Essential contacts Wyrestorm Technologies Europe Ltd T: +44 (0)1793 230343 M: +44 (07921 003954 W: www.wyrestorm.eu Home Cinema

Amina Technologies Ltd T: +44 (0)1480 354390 E: inspired@amina.co.uk W: www.amina.co.uk

Artcoustic Loudspeakers T: +44 (0)1245 400904 E: salesuk@artcoustic.com W: www.artcoustic.com

Gecko Inc Ltd

T: +44 (0)845 2622882 W: www.geckohomecinema.com

Harry B Litherland & Co Ltd T: +44 (0)1253 607830 E: sales@hblitherland.co.uk W: www.hblitherland.co.uk

Marata Vision

T: +44 (0)1923 495595 E: info@marata.co.uk W: www.marata.co.uk

PictureFrame.TV

T: +44 (0)20 81446060 E: info@pictureframe.tv W: www.pictureframe.tv

Pro Display

T: +44 (0)870 7668438 E: sales@prodisplay.co.uk W: www.prodisplay.com

Habitech

T: +44 (0)1420 540054 W: www.habitech.co.uk

SIM2 UK Ltd

T: +44 (0)1825 750850 E: info@sim2.co.uk W: www.sim2.co.uk

Smartcomm Ltd

T: +44 (0)1494 471912 E: info@smartcomm.co.uk W: www.smartcomm.co.uk HVAC Control Systems

Intelligent Controls (UK) Ltd

n Smart Homes, there’s a olved in a project from the hen the integration of the rastructure is in place and able to smart control. This heating and cooling sys-

T: +44 (0)1342 717748 E: support@intelligent-controls.co.uk W: www.intelligent-controls.co.uk

Ltd specialises in the omes, to front end systems using North® Products. hat are able to control rth Zip® systems, which djustment of underfloor conditioning systems. An o access controls remotely.

Ivory Egg (UK) Ltd T: +44 (0)1243 572700 E: info@ivoryegg.co.uk W: www.knxshop.co.uk

oducts can be integrated, e controls engineer at the on of HVAC systems with , BacNet, Lonworks®, IP, gration into smart systems. d to standardise these the AV Programmer.

Essential Install

Integrated reception system (IRS)

Vision

T: +44 (0)1604 662748 E: sales@vision-products.co.uk W: www.vision-products.co.uk Lighting Control Systems

ACA-Apex Ltd

T: +44 (0)1525 379933 E: info@aca-apex.co.uk W: www.aca-apex.co.uk

Armour Home Electronics T: +44 (0)1279 501111 E: sales@armourhome.co.uk W: www.armourhome.co.uk

Control 4

T: +44 (0)800 1217702 E: emea@control4.com W: www.control4.com

Futronix Ltd

T: +44 (0)1883 373333 E: sales@futronix.com W: www.futronix.com

Ivory Egg (UK) Ltd T: +44 (0)1243 572700 E: info@ivoryegg.co.uk W: www.knxshop.co.uk

Legrand Electric Ltd

T: +44 (0) 870 608 9020 E: uk-wdsales@legrand.co.uk W: www.legrand.co.uk

Marata Vision

T: +44 (0)1923 495595 E: info@marata.co.uk W: www.marata.co.uk

The Multi-Room Company Ltd T: +44 (0)1242 511133 E: info@multi-room.com W: www.multi-room.com

Rako Controls Ltd

T: +44 (0)1634 226666 E: sales@rakocontrols.com W: www.rakocontrols.com

RGB Communications Ltd T: +44 (0)1488 73366 E: info@rgbcomms.co.uk W: www.rgbcomms.co.uk Mains conditioning & distribution

Habitech

T: +44 (0)1420 540054 W: www.habitech.co.uk

Essential contacts Isol-8 Teknologies Limited

Redline Sound Solutions T: +44 (0)1268 858222 E: info@red-line.co.uk W: www.red-line.co.uk

T: +44 (0)208 8568856 E: nic@isol-8.co.uk W: www.isol-8.co.uk media servers

The TV Shield (A division of Ce-Tek) T: +44 (0)1298 872233 E: sales@thetvshield.co.uk W: www.thetvshield.co.uk

Aldous Systems (Europe) Ltd T: +44 (0)1296 719582 E: sales@aldoussystems.co.uk W: www.aldoussystems.co.uk

Unicam Audio Visual

T: +44 (0)871 2262886 E: sales.uk@unicamgroup.com W: www.unicamgroup.com

Habitech

T: +44 (0)1420 540054 W: www.habitech.co.uk

PA Systems/Distribution

Uvem Limited

Harry B Litherland & Co Ltd

T: +44 (0)845 4561220 E: info@uvem.com W: www.uvem.com Mirror/Specialist Custome Install TVs

Alltrade: Videotree T: +44 (0)844 2252700 E: sales@alltrade.co.uk W: www.alltrade.co.uk

Aquavision â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Available from Invision UK T: +44 (0)1359 270280 E: sales@invisionuk.com W: www.invisionuk.com

Impact Screen Solutions

T: +44 (0)1273 735476 M: +44 (0)7515 995776 E: sales@impactscreensolutions.co.uk W: www.impactscreensolutions.co.uk

Marata Vision

T: +44 (0)1923 495595 E: info@marata.co.uk W: www.marata.co.uk

MirrorMedia Ltd

T: +44 (0)870 3866333 E: sales@mirrormedia.com W: www.mirrormedia.com

T: +44 (0)1253 607830 E: sales@hblitherland.co.uk W: www.hblitherland.co.uk Power Socket

Sync-box

T: +44 (0) 1892 838860 E: office@eyestones.co.uk W: www.sync-box.com Professional AV Systems

Midwich

T: +44 (0)1379 649200 E: sales@midwich.com W: www.midwich.com Home cinema Projectors

Audio Visual Material Ltd T: +44 (0)1252 510363 E: mnisbet@avmltd.co.uk W: www.avmltd.co.uk

Draper Group Ltd

T: +44 (0)1536 203101 E: joseph@drapergroupltd.co.uk W: www.drapergroupltd.co.uk Projectors, Projection Screens & Projector Lift Models

Peerless-AV

Genesis Technologies

T: +44 (0)1923 200100 E: sales@peerless-av.eu.com W: www.peerless-av.com

T: +44 (0)203 2394120 E: info@genesistechnologies.co.uk W: www.genesistechnologies.co.uk

PictureFrame.TV

Habitech

T: +44 (0)20 81446060 E: info@pictureframe.tv W: www.pictureframe.tv

T: +44 (0)1420 540054 W: www.habitech.co.uk

Pro Display

T: +44 (0)1420 540054 E: sales@habitech.co.uk W: www.habitech.co.uk

T: +44 (0)870 7668438 E: sales@prodisplay.co.uk W: www.prodisplay.com

Habitech Ltd: JVC, Weis (screens)

Essential Install

Essential contacts Harry B Litherland & Co Ltd

Aerials & Cable Equipment Ltd

Impact Screen Solutions

Alltrade Aerial & Satellite Limited

T: +44 (0)1253 607830 E: sales@hblitherland.co.uk W: www.hblitherland.co.uk

T: +44 (0)1242 511511 E: sales@aceonline.co.uk W: www.aceonline.co.uk

T: +44 (0)1273 735476 M: +44 (0)7515 995776 E: sales@impactscreensolutions.co.uk W: www.impactscreensolutions.co.uk

T: +44 (0)844 2252700 E: sales@alltrade.co.uk W: www.alltrade.co.uk

JVC Europe Limited

Antiference Limited

T: +44 (0)20 8208 7676 E: hdworld@jvc.co.uk W: www.jvc.co.uk

T: +44 (0)1675 465487 E: sales@antiference.co.uk W: www.antiference.co.uk

Marata Vision

Eurosat Distribution Ltd

Pro Display

Harry B Litherland & Co Ltd

T: +44 (0)870 7668438 E: sales@prodisplay.co.uk W: www.prodisplay.com

T: +44 (0)1253 607830 E: sales@hblitherland.co.uk W: www.hblitherland.co.uk

Pulse Marketing

Satellite By Fibre

T: +44 (0)8455 618884 W: www.pulsemarketing.com W: www.homecinemagallery.com

T: +44 (0)845 6430144 E: sales@satellitebyfibre.co.uk W: www.satellitebyfibre.co.uk

Redline Sound Solutions

Triax UK Ltd

RGB Communications Ltd

Vision

T: +44 (0)1923 495595 E: info@marata.co.uk W: www.marata.co.uk

T: +44 (0)208 2084444 E: sales@eurosatlondon.com W: www.eurosat.com

T: +44 (0)1268 858222 E: info@red-line.co.uk W: www.red-line.co.uk

T: +44 (0)845 6010578 E: sales@triax.co.uk W: www.triax.co.uk

T: +44 (0)1488 73366 E: info@rgbcomms.co.uk W: www.rgbcomms.co.uk

SIM2 UK Ltd

T: +44 (0)1604 662748 E: sales@vision-products.co.uk W: www.vision-products.co.uk smart glass

T: +44 (0)1825 750850 E: info@sim2.co.uk W: www.sim2.co.uk

Pro Display

T: +44 (0)870 7668438 E: sales@prodisplay.co.uk W: www.prodisplay.com

True Colours

T: +44 (0)1252 876300 E: sales@true-colours.net W: www.true-colours.net

Vogelâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Products UK Ltd T: +44 (0)330 2020980 E: info.uk@vogels.com W: www.vogels.com Satellite & UHF Distribution

ACA-Apex Ltd

T: +44 (0)1525 379933 E: info@aca-apex.co.uk W: www.aca-apex.co.uk

Essential Install

Speakers/SUBS

ACA-Apex Ltd

T: +44 (0)1525 379933 E: info@aca-apex.co.uk W: www.aca-apex.co.uk

Aldous Systems (Europe) Ltd T: +44 (0)1296 719582 E: sales@aldoussystems.co.uk W: www.aldoussystems.co.uk

Amina Technologies Ltd T: +44 (0)1480 354390 E: inspired@amina.co.uk W: www.amina.co.uk

Essential contacts Armour Home Electronics T: +44 (0)1279 501111 E: sales@armourhome.co.uk W: www.armourhome.co.uk

Artcoustic Loudspeakers T: +44 (0)1245 400904 E: salesuk@artcoustic.com W: www.artcoustic.com

Alltrade: SONOS, BluCube

Trade Association

CAI

T: +44 (0)1923 803030 F: 01923 803203 E: office@cai.org.uk W: www.cai.org.uk Training provision

CAI

T: +44 (0)844 2252700 E: sales@alltrade.co.uk W: www.alltrade.co.uk

T: +44 (0)1923 803030 F: 01923 803203 E: office@cai.org.uk W: www.cai.org.uk

Anthony Gallo Acoustics

Legrand Electric Ltd

T: +44 (0)1555 666883 E: enquiries@anthonygallo.co.uk W: www.anthonygallo.co.uk

DLS Sweden

T : +44 (0)1555 667288 E : enquiries@dlsaudio.co.uk W: www.dlsaudio.co.uk

Elipson â&#x20AC;&#x201C; exclusively from BBG Distribution Ltd T: +44 (0)1923 205610 E: sales@bbg.eu.com W: www.bbg.eu.com

Genesis Technologies

T: +44 (0)203 2394120 E: info@genesistechnologies.co.uk W: www.genesistechnologies.co.uk

Habitech Ltd: Sonance, DLS T: +44 (0)1420 540054 E: sales@habitech.co.uk W: www.habitech.co.uk

Harry B Litherland & Co Ltd T: +44 (0)1253 607830 E: sales@hblitherland.co.uk W: www.hblitherland.co.uk

MidwichHome

T: +44 (0)1379 646889 E: midwichhome@midwich.com W: www.midwichhome.com

Redline Sound Solutions

T: +44 (0) 870 608 9020 E: uk-wdsales@legrand.co.uk W: www.legrand.co.uk Tools and Test Equipment

Alltrade Aerial & Satellite Limited T: +44 (0)844 2252700 E: sales@alltrade.co.uk W: www.alltrade.co.uk

Asheridge Communications Ltd T: +44 (0)1494 794770 E: crigby@ascomms.com W: www.ashcomms.com

Harry B Litherland & Co Ltd T: +44 (0)1253 607830 E: sales@hblitherland.co.uk W: www.hblitherland.co.uk

Solutions Group (UK) Plc T: +44 (0)8456 444000 E: sales@solutionsgroup-plc.com W: www.solutionsgroup-plc.com

Triax UK Ltd

T: +44 (0)845 6010578 E: sales@triax.co.uk W: www.triax.co.uk TV Protection Devices

The TV Shield (A division of Ce-Tek) T: +44 (0)1298 872233 E: sales@thetvshield.co.uk W: www.thetvshield.co.uk

T: +44 (0)1268 858222 E: info@red-line.co.uk W: www.red-line.co.uk

RGB Communications Ltd T: +44 (0)1488 73366 E: info@rgbcomms.co.uk W: www.rgbcomms.co.uk

Essential Install @Essentialinstal

Be sure to follow us on twitter @Essentialinstal for the latest news.

TDI

T: +44 (0)1256 397770 E: info@tdigroup.co.uk W: www.tdigroup.co.uk

Yamaha Music Europe GmbH (UK) T: +44 (0)1908 366700 W: www.uk.yamaha.com

Essential Install Live @EILiveSouth

Keep up to date with show news from @EILiveSouth #EILive

Essential Install

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