Vol. 11 Issue 6 ~ August - September 2012
AUDIO • VISUAL • LIGHT • CONTROL SYSTEMS MICA (P) 017/04/2012 PPS 1669/08/2013 (022992)
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AMX holds Pro AV India Consultants’ Meet Tribute to Dr Randal A.Lemke
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Vol. 11 Issue 6 ~ August - September 2012
AUDIO • VISUAL • LIGHT • CONTROL SYSTEMS MICA (P) 017/04/2012 PPS 1669/08/2013 (022992)
Techno Q at the College of Education in Qatar University AMX holds Pro AV India Consultants’ Meet Tribute to Dr Randal A.Lemke
w w w . s y s t e m s i n t e g r a t i o n a s i a . c o m
CONTENTS
Vol. 11 Issue 6 ~ August - September 2012
54 70 38 04 FIRST WORDS
54 T2 Consulting delivers at the BIS Auditorium
06 NEWS
57 Genesis Innovation of ICT at Microsoft Bengalaru
26 SOLUTIONS UPDATE PRODUCT FOCUS 34 AMX Rapid Project Maker 36 Casio lampless projectors INDIA & MIDDLE EAST COLUMN 38 News
EXHIBITION REVIEW 70 InfoComm 2012
Interview 58 Blessing’s on his new role at Vega India
INSTALLATIONS 80 TrueWay Presbyterian upgrades its audio system
82 QSC solutions at the Xinjiang International Expo Centre
83 Symetrix Jupiter Processor features Consultant’s Say 60 Neil Langford on applying technology creatively
at the Tai O Heritage Hotel
85 Queensland University Of Technology relies on Harman’s AKG DMS700
Installation 50 Techno Q at Qatar University College of Education of Education
52 Barco Solutions feature at the DCA ImagingResearch Centre
EXHIBITION PREVIEW 63 PALME / INSTALL Thailand 64 InfoComm MEA
85 BXB PA system installed at SMA Negeri 2 School
VOICE BOX 87 Tribute to Dr. Randal A. Lemke
04
FIRST WORDS
Systems Integration Asia August - September 2012
COVER: College of Education in Qatar University
New activism in the Middle East The Middle East is witnessing a new activism in audio-visual entrepreneurship, or so it appears. While enterprises from outside the region have been pro-actively exploring the Arab geographies to widen their footprint, as also their fortunes, companies from within the region are getting more or less equally proactive in expanding within as well as outside their home. The last few months have seen some important entrepreneurial initiatives. Earlier during the year, Indian AVSI major AGC Networks began exploring their Middle East dream by setting up a joint-venture initiative with the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. This initiative seeks to provide IT and ITES services to the Arabian Kingdom in several of its infrastructural projects. More recently, Japanese AV major TOA Electronics made a decisive initiative through its European arm TOA Electronics Europe to expand its base in the UAE with a new branch office in Dubai. Now, Hitachi is joining other multinational brands from Japan and elsewhere to do the same. Doha, Qatar-based AVSI solutions leader TechnoQ is pursuing an expansion strategy through the GCC region. The company has recently set up its direct presence in Saudi Arabia, and it has drawn up plans to expand to neighbouring Oman in the coming months. It is already engaged in a sub-contracted multi-million dollar project in Oman for a government sector client. The ensuing expansion is to cater to the growing market requirement. On the other hand, enterprises from within the region have also been getting aggressive in the recent past. Dubai-headquartered Genesis Integration LLC recently expanded its Indian operations through appointing an exclusive South India Representative towards strengthening its existing Indian presence. It currently has two offices in Delhi and Bangalore. A few months ago, Dubai-headquartered Almoe Digital Solutions Pvt Ltd deputised one of its top executives to steer its Bangalore-based India operations to the next level of activism. More recently, Dubai-based Al Reyami Technologies LLC (part of the Al Reyami Group), opened its office in Chennai, strengthening its presence in the country. It already has an office in Mumbai, and is aiming at further expansion. According to sources, more enterprises from the Middle East are getting keen on seeking Indian fortunes in the coming months. Ram Bhavanashi Editor, India and Middle East
OUR TEAM PUBLISHER / EDITORIAL DIRECTOR Thomas Richard Prakasam thomas@spinworkz.com INDIA AND MIDDLE EAST EDITOR Ram Bhavanashi ram@spinworkz.com DIGITAL PLATFORM WRITER Rosalind Tan rosalind@spinworkz.com DESIGN AND PRODUCTION Jimmy Chin jimmy@spinworkz.com ADMIN & CIRCULATION Julie Tan admin@spinworkz.com Media Rep in North America Broadcast Media International Michael Mitchell Tel: +1 631 673 0072 mjmitchell@broadcast-media.tv PRINTED BY Print & Print Pte Ltd PUBLISHED BY Spinworkz Pte Ltd 51 Bukit Batok Crescent #06-10 Unity Centre Singapore 658077 Tel: (65) 6316 2716 Fax: (65) 63162715 www.spinworkz.com
Disclaimer Systems Integration Asia is published 6 times a year. All rights reserved. No part of this magazine is to be reproduced, whether mechanical or electronic without the prior written consent of the publisher. Views expressed in this magazine do not necessarily reflect those of the editor or the publisher. Unsolicited contributions are welcome but the editor reserves the discretion to use them. Whilst every care is taken to ensure the accuracy and honesty in both editorial and advertising content at press time, the publisher will not be liable for any inaccuracies.
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06
NEWS
Systems Integration Asia August - September 2012
Strong growth sees Kramer Asia Pacific extend its warehouse space SINGAPORE: Kramer Electronics Asia Pacific Pte Ltd recently extended its warehouse space by another 2013 sq.ft. to a total size of 4021 sq.ft. The warehouse which is conveniently located next to their office premises will enable Kramer to meet growing demand in the region with a quicker turn-around. Paul Lee, general manager of Kramer Electronics Asia Pacific, states, “Due to strong growth and great demand of Kramer products in the region, we were no longer able to cope with the existing warehouse space. The addition of the new warehouse space definitely helps to bring much relief to our logistics department.” The warehouse in Singapore serves the needs of all the South-east Asian countries as well as Hong Kong, Taiwan and India. In line with the warehouse expansion, Kramer has also increased headcount for the logistics team. Taking advantage of the BroadcastAsia and CommunicAsia event in June, Kramer invited their regional clients who were attending the exhibitions to their office to showcase their warehouse facilities as well as to offer the opportunity for the logistics personnel to mingle and get to know their clients better. Operational personnel from System Integration companies were also invited to the event which featured catering and delving into the Asian delicacy of durians, which were in season during the period. Email: kap@kramerasia.com www.kramerasia.com
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Televic Conference makes inroads into Australia and New Zealand AUSTRALIA: Televic Conference has further expanded its reach on the global market, by signing a distribution agreement with Bramshaw® ICS Conference Communications for Australia and New Zealand. This agreement is an important step for Televic Conference in the development of its partner network in the Asia Pacific territory. Bramshaw® ICS Conference Communications is Televic’s first partner in Australia and New Zealand. Simon Kemp, CEO of Bramshaw® sees great potential to enter the installation and rental market with Televic. A first system of 24 Confidea® Wireless units has already been installed in the board rooms of a major Australian auditing & accounting company.
Simon Kemp states, “The installation contractor, the largest in Australia, was impressed by the quality and ease of installation of the Confidea system. ‘It just worked straight out of the box’, an engineer stated, and that as soon as he saw the battery chargers and the microphones he knew he was dealing with a quality company. Subsequently the installation contractors had to rent the Confidea system for an emergency meeting of very high profile clients and they were delighted that such a high calibre system of 30 microphones could be set up and tuned for a room in just twenty minutes. At Bramshaw® we are not only impressed with the quality and pricing of the equipment but also with the professional competence shown by Televic Conference staff and marketing.”
“Televic Conference has been very successful in China, Taiwan, Malaysia and Japan. Bramshaw® has the perfect profile to be equally successful on the installation and rental market in Australia and New Zealand with the Televic Conference solutions. We are therefore extremely happy to work with Simon and his team,” says Herman Geerinck, Channel Sales Manager EMEAA for Televic Conference. www.televic-conference.com www.bramshaw.com.au
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World’s Highest Quality With future proof 3 Gb/s SDI connections built in, Universal Videohub allows twice the SDI data rate than normal HD-SDI. Use 3 Gb/s SDI for 1080p60 and high resolution real time 2048 x 1556 feature film editing. 3 Gb/s SDI allows auto switching between all SD, HD and 2K video formats in both 4:4:4 and 4:2:2 quality. Network Router Control Universal Videohub is compatible with hardware control panels such as Blackmagic Design’s Videohub Smart Control and for lower cost includes free software control panels for both Windows™ and Mac OS X™. Software panels let you route from your desktop! Universal Videohub uses ethernet for the control panel interface so you can control your routing from anywhere in the world!
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08
NEWS
Systems Integration Asia August - September 2012
Mitsubishi Electric and Peace Myanmar Electric hold successful product seminar were also showcased. The public display LCD monitors have impressive functions like touch screen, tiling function, video playback and digital signage solution. Mitsubishi Electric also took the opportunity to set up 2x2 55 inch super narrow bezel LCD display wall with front access capability. Last but not least, Mitsubishi Electric conducted live demonstration using their instant photo kiosk and photo network system to print their group photos which were generated within seconds with clear and sharp image quality.
MYANMAR: Mitsubishi Electric Asia Pte Ltd, Visual Imaging Division held a successful product seminar with its Myanmar’s distributor, Peace Myanmar Electric Co., Ltd at Traders Hotel, Yangong on 25 May 2012. It was the first joint-seminar organised by both companies. Seeing the great potential market in Myanmar, Mitsubishi Electric’s Visual Imaging Division entered into distributorship with Peace Myanmar Electric and strives for a win-win business collaboration. The product seminar response was overwhelming with more than 100 participants attending the presentations in the afternoon. The participants came from diverse industries like education, bank, media, hotel, retail, information technology and various government agencies. The respective sales managers
from Mitsubishi Electric presented about the product line-up, advertising strategies, promotion activities, market situation and successful case studies of site installations. During the morning session, the hotel ballroom was open to the public for walk-in to view the product displays. Four categories of Mitsubishi Electric’s Visual Imaging products were showcased and demonstrated; namely projectors, public display monitors, large display wall and professional printers.
Various media interviews were conducted with Peace Myanmar Electric’s managing director, Saw Aung, Mitsubishi Electric’s Visual Imaging Division, senior general manager, Naohiro Sato and other Peace Myanmar Electric’s staff to find out more about Mitsubishi Electric’s diverse range of products. These interviews were aired on Myanmar’s TV programmes. Mitsubishi Electric and Peace Myanmar Electric intend to continue to organise such significant seminars to further promote Visual Imaging products to a greater audience. www.MitsubishiElectric.com.sg www.pme-electric.com
Mitsubishi Electric’s projector functions were featured in the seminar. They included the 4-in-1 LAN Display, USB Display, PC-less Presentation, Interactivity Rear Projection and 3D Home Cinema Projection. A dark-room was constructed in the hotel ballroom to allow the visitors to enjoy the immersive 3D effect. New Interactive projectors
Acoustic & Lighting System appointed as distributor for CAE Cables MALAYSIA: CAE GROUPE, a reputable and experienced cable maker from France, specializing in cables, connectors, and assemblies for TV broadcastings, medicals, schools and concert halls has appointed Acoustic & Lighting System (A&L) as their distributor in Malaysia. Through this agreement, A&L System intends to target the AV and broadcast end users of the various industries in Malaysia with CAE’s LCAE and S2CEB cable solutions. CAE Cables are qualified through rigorous tests from TEXTRONIX. “Once again, A&L is very proud and honoured to welcome another reputable member into its ever growing list of reliable, prominent and quality-driven family of products and brands. We look forward to distribute CAE Cable to our huge existing market of customers
throughout Malaysia. We are confident with the addition of CAE Cable; A&L will be further strengthened to serve our customers better, through a whole new level of effectiveness,” said Yeo Kim San, CEO of A&L Systems. Regional sales manager of CAE ASIA, Don Giam, has been overseeing S2CEB distribution network in Asia Pacific for four years and was happy to welcome A&L Systems into the fold and said, “A&L is not only well established and
customer-focused, but they are very proactive in the market. We’re looking forward to working together for the long term with their experienced team.” CAE Cable’s list of product includes microphones, speakers, multi-pair, fiber optic and video cables. To add on CAE also has their own range of connectors from XLR to BNC and pre-made cables. ww.cae-groupe.com www.acousticlighting.com
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10
NEWS
Systems Integration Asia August - September 2012
Optocore appoints AVSC in the Philippines “With the addition of Optocore to our product portfolio, AVSC will be recognised as a total system solution provider for PA and AV markets in the Philippines,” he said. Faced with an increasing demand for a reliable networking system, AVSC approached (L-R) AVSC product managers, Wayne Gutor and Janice Villamil, Optocore back in with general manager Michael ‘Mike” Sanchez with the February this year. Optocore racks Once the deal was PHILIPPINES: Optocore has appointed agreed they wasted no time in ordering Audio-Video Solutions Corporation a series of demo racks containing more (AVSC) as its new exclusive distributor than 40 interfaces, including DD4MRin the Philippines. The company will be FX, DD32R-FX, V3R-TP-INTERCOM and responsible for marketing the German various other V3R and X6R converters. manufacturer’s premium fibre networks, and broadcast routing solutions from According to Gutor, Optocore will make an immediate impact in various sister company BroaMan. large church installations, and has Representing some of the industry’s been earmarked for a 5000-capacity leading international brands, AVSC Convention Center / Worship Hall, sees Optocore’s high-speed, high- Entertainment City (with large Casinos performance digital networking system and Theaters), an Amusement Park and as the perfect solution for reliable a Broadcast News Studio. In fact the transmission of audio, data and video broadcast segment will become a core signals in large installation projects, market. rental/touring applications and the broadcast market sectors, according to “We see the flexibility and compatibility of the Optocore system, in use with other AVSC’s sales manager, Wayne A. Gutor.
major pro-audio brands such as DiGiCo, Avid, Yamaha, Soundcraft, Clear-Com, Telex, RTS and Neumann, as a major advantage, along with Optocore’s ability to build multi-node large networks via optical fibre and Cat5/6 cables,” he continued. Technical training has already been put in place as a precursor to joining the OCT Certification programme, and AVSC will appoint a dedicated Optocore product manager supported by an engineering department for technical support and after-sales-service. The brand will be formally launched during their biggest annual pro audio show, PALMM Philippines 2012. Commented Optocore’s director of sales & marketing, Tine Helmle, “We are delighted to have found a partner of the calibre of AVSC in this region. I am very optimistic that we will achieve great sales in a short period of time.” Summing up Wayne Gutor stated, “AVSC is excited by the opportunity to develop the business potential of Optocore here in our country. As stated previously, the Optocore system will enable AVSC to become a total system solution provider for PA and AV markets here in the Philippines.” www.optocore.com
Analog Way announces new exclusive dealer for Indonesia INDONESIA: Analog Way, a leading designer and manufacturer of presentation switchers and image converters, has announced the appointment of Renewal Indonesia as the exclusive dealer for Analog Way’s range of solutions. The appointment took place in June 2012. Renewal Indonesia is a system integration group company consisting of Audiovisual and Architect Interior units. Its Pro AV branch is serving Business, Education, Public Venues and Houses of Worship. Fahmi Ramadoni Pitono, marketing director of Renewal Indonesia declares: “We will proudly represent Analog Way’s products in Indonesia. The visual industry is a big market and multimedia equipment is required in a quantity of projects. With proven quality, I’m confident that Analog Way’s computer and video signal processing and distribution products will grow in our country.”
In June the teams of Renewal Indonesia received two days of training on Analog Way’s systems in Jakarta, to ensure better understanding of the products. Sentra Niaga Perkasa, a member of Renewal Indonesia states: “I’m proud to be committed to Analog Way. I already knew the products and compared to other brands, Analog Way is one step ahead in terms of technology and durability”. Lawrence Wai, regional sales manager at Analog Way explains: “We are delighted
(L-R): Fahmi Ramadoni Pitono, Imanullah Oesman, Lawrence Wai, Sales Manager at Analog Way and Erlangga Kharisma Putra
to begin what we believe will be a strong partnership between Analog Way and Renewal Indonesia. The company will play a vital role in delivering Analog Way’s wide range of solutions to organizations across the Indonesian systems integration market. Together, we will offer the most sophisticated and user-friendly products experience to our customers.” www.analogway.com www.renewal.co.id
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12
NEWS
Systems Integration Asia August - September 2012
Christie enters into three-year strategic alliance with Shanghai Film Group
CHINA: Christie has announced that it has established a long-term strategic alliance with Shanghai Film Group (SFG), a leading film company in China, to promote the digitalization and industrialization of the film industry in China for the next three years. The alliance will cover more than 200 digital cinemas under Shanghai United Circuit, a subsidiary of the Shanghai Film Group, using 750 of Christie’s powerful digital cinema projectors. Xiaojun Wang, vice president, Shanghai Film Group, says, “Digital cinema is rapidly replacing the traditional 35mm film. With the evolving digital cinema technology, we need to position our chain of cinemas at the forefront
of technological advancement, constantly upgrading our technological offering to reach out to the cinema market. The decision to enter into a strategic alliance with Christie is imperative to the development of our company. It has an even far-reaching effect to the future of the Chinese film industry as it closely monitors the actual needs of the development of Chinese films to be in line with the development of international film digitalization.” “China’s burgeoning economy has witnessed an unprecedented call for better entertainment and lifestyle. More cinemas are jumping on the bandwagon of digital projection than ever before,” comments Lin Yu, vice president, Christie Asia Pacific. “With more than 80 years of experience in cinema projection, Christie has been instrumental in the deployment of more than 31,000 digital cinema projectors worldwide. We are honoured to be the strategic partner of the Shanghai Film Group to realize the digitalization of the film industry in China.”
Through the strategic alliance, SFG will promote the construction of its digital cinema using Christie’s range of costeffective and quality digital cinema projectors. The scope of the alliance covers the modification of digitalization of Chinese cinema, application and presentation of new technologies, joint development of new products, joint exploration of the market of digital film and exhibitions. Christie will also share with SFG its expertise in digital cinema technology and digital cinema service management platform, and provide technical expertise in platform construction. In this process, Christie will build up a technical service team within SFG to be compliant with the international cinema standards in order to meet the needs of SFG’s digital cinema construction and development plans. This process will entail technical advices and support as well as local training for SFG’s technical service team for the next three years. By maintaining close contact and long-term technical exchange through visits, lectures and trainings, the strategic alliance hopes to keep SFG on par with the global development of film technology. www.christiedigital.com www.sfs-cn.com
John McMahon to play key role at Meyer Sound INTERNATIONAL: Meyer Sound has announced John McMahon as executive director of operations, a newly created position effective immediately. McMahon will play a key role in aligning the long-term mission, operational goals, and expansion programs across the company, while continuing to fulfill his existing duties as executive director of Digital Products and managing director of Meyer Sound China. “It’s important to maintain our responsiveness in our engineering and support services as we develop more system-based products like EXP™ [cinema system] and Constellation® [acoustic system] while entering new vertical markets and expanding our global presence,” says Helen Meyer, executive vice president of Meyer Sound. “John McMahon will play a key role in connecting the different departments and making sure they are in sync as the company builds towards further growth.”
Under the strategic oversight of Helen Meyer and CEO John Meyer, McMahon will work to strengthen the company’s operations and its ability to innovate in collaboration with the key department leaders. They include Pablo Espinosa of R&D engineering, Dean Marshall of product development, Tim Wise of manufacturing & sustaining reliability, Mike Panko of production services, Cliff Eldridge of finance, Rachel Archibald of marketing, and Antonio Zacarias, who has recently been promoted to VP of worldwide sales. McMahon joined Meyer Sound in 2005 during the acquisition of Level Control Systems (LCS Audio) at which he was serving as CEO. Since then, he has been working closely with consultants, sound designers, and other end users while growing the company’s digital engineering and technical teams to make Meyer Sound digital audio technology accessible to audiences worldwide.
John McMahon can be reached at johnmcm@meyersound.com www.meyersound.com
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14
NEWS
Systems Integration Asia August - September 2012
Verrex appoints Daryl Grove as Asia Pacific Executive Director
HONG KONG: Verrex, a global designbuild integrator and managed services provider of conferencing, collaboration and presentation technologies, has appointed Daryl Grove as the company’s
Asia Pacific executive director. Mr. Grove will direct the day-to-day operations of the entire APAC region as well as execute strategic business initiatives including operational excellence and new market development. He will report directly to Verrex President & CEO, Thomas Berry Jr.
of Global Sales & Major Accounts at FCS Computer Systems. Other career highlights include executive director of sales at Principal One, senior account manager at Infor and Sales Director with NetValue Ltd. Mr. Grove holds a Diploma in Economics - London School of Economics.
“Daryl has developed competencies and insights from his many years in Asia that are crucial to our growth, regional expansion and meeting demand in this market,” said Mr. Berry. “Our clients in Hong Kong, Singapore, Shanghai, Tokyo and elsewhere have great expectations as to the quality of their systems’ integrator. I am confident we will continue to surpass these expectations through Daryl’s exceptional leadership.”
“Verrex has successfully fostered a culture dedicated to superior quality,” said Mr. Grove. “As an organization, they recognize that credibility and quality are crucial to this region and all the others we serve. I very much look forward to continuing to implement strategies focused on maximizing value to our clients and am delighted to be part of the team.”
Mr. Grove has gained valuable skill sets and business acumen from several industries including Audiovisual, Electronics and Information Technology. Most recently he was Executive Director
Mr. Grove is based at the company’s Asia Pacific headquarters in Kowloon Bay, Hong Kong and may be reached at +852 3713 4200 or dgrove@verrex.com.
Polycom leads market share for Videoconferencing systems in China CHINA: According to the latest results by CCW Research, a leading Chinese IT market research and consulting company, Polycom, Inc. is leading the Chinese market in video conferencing systems with 51.4% market share as in 2011. The results are highlighted in the report “Development Trends of Chinese Market Videoconferencing Systems 2011-2012.” The findings by CCW Research reveal that the value of the video collaboration market in China grew by 20.6% in 2011 over the previous year, as immersive telepresence, HD room and desktop systems, as well as mobile video endpoints were increasingly adopted. According to CCW Research, the overall market is expected to continue a growth trend in 2012, driven by emerging video cloud services. “Video collaboration has become mission-critical in business because of the significant savings in travel costs, improvements in productivity, and ability to make faster, more informed team decisions. In China and in global markets, Polycom is working to make video collaboration ubiquitous, with customers no longer being limited by location, network carrier, protocol, or device,” said Steven Li, vice president and general manager, Polycom China. “Polycom is delivering innovative new video applications to new platforms, connecting people visually, securely,
reliably, and in high definition, no matter where they are or what device or network they use. Through partnerships with mobile device manufacturers Apple, Samsung and HTC; PC-manufacturer Lenovo; and service providers such as China Unicom, Polycom is making visual collaboration accessible and easy-to-use for everyone.” Yang Ke, consulting director of CCW Research said: “Polycom held 51.4 percent market share in the China video conferencing market in 2011, demonstrating its strength in delivering industry-leading video collaboration solutions that meet the needs of China customers. In an increasingly competitive marketplace, Polycom’s advantage of standards based solutions and focus on interoperability, combined with its strong partnerships, makes it a market leader in the video conferencing industry.” A key driver for video collaboration ubiquity is cloud-delivery, and Polycom is working with leading service providers to help them deliver Video-as-a-Service (VaaS) offerings to their customers. For example, China Unicom created one of the largest video clouds in the world, powered by the Polycom® RealPresence™ Platform, which enables the delivery of VaaS to more than 10,000 business and government organisations throughout China. The RealPresence Platform provides the scalability,
reliability, and interoperability that enable China Unicom’s video cloud to interconnect approximately 100,000 endpoints (and growing) from 20 different vendors. Polycom RealPresence video solutions are today helping to make organisations throughout China more productive, and changing the way people work and learn. Earlier this month, Polycom announced a collaboration with the Education Commission of Beijing Xicheng District to create the first remote and international exchange education system in Beijing using Polycom® RealPresence™ video solutions. The first stage of the remote education system will involve construction of video classrooms in 10 middle schools, 50 standard schools, and 200 cooperative schools to be completed by September 2012. In 2011, China’s Ministry of Science and Technology (MOST) deployed Polycom RealPresence Platform, to speed development of its large-scale projects and conferences, in particular for the management reform, evaluation and review of MOST’s 175 strategic 2011/2012 research projects and initiatives across 20 provinces. www.polycom.asia www.ccwresearch.com.cn
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Singapore’s Golden Village Multiplex goes fully digital with Barco technology SINGAPORE: Golden Village Multiplex Pte Ltd., Singapore’s leading cinema exhibitor, has completed full digitization of all its locations with Barco’s Digital Cinema projectors. Since its inception in 1992, Golden Village Multiplex Pte Ltd has built a reputation of offering the widest choice of movies, state-of-the-art design and unparalleled comfort in prime locations. Now, the No. 1 exhibitor in Singapore has achieved full digital deployment across all of its locations with Barco projectors. With Barco digital projection and superb picture resolution, Golden Village is providing the best cinematic experience to movie goers, island-wide. The models being deployed at Golden Village include the DP2K-12C, DP2K-20C, DP2K-23B and DP4k-23b – all of which are praised for their excellent image quality and ease of maintenance and are DCI-compliant digital cinema projectors. Thanks to their superior optical design
and sealed engine, the projectors guarantee ultra-bright movie projections on any screen.
Barco technology was chosen for its ease-of-use, superb image resolution, and modular product design. Golden Village Multiplex boasts one of the widest screens (22.4 meters) in Southeast Asia – and it is on this screen that the DP4K projector has been deployed to offer first-class digital viewing on the grandest scale.
Kurt Rieder, CEO, Golden Village Multiplex, comments: “Through our experience of having deployed Barco’s projectors, we are assured of Barco’s quality and after sales service. Barco’s projectors are intelligently built with modular parts that are easily replaced and can be used interchangeably across different models. This translates to savings in maintenance time and cost.” Eddie Tan, general manager, SEA, Entertainment & Simulation at Barco adds, “We are very proud to be working with Golden Village on their successful digital deployment, helping them achieve their goal of transforming the cinematic experience in Singapore. With our company’s strong presence in Southeast Asia, we have always been committed to delivering the highest level of service.” www.barco.com www.gv.com.sg
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Systems Integration Asia August - September 2012
Cisco upgrades Vega’s status to Cisco TelePresence Video Master Multinational ATP partner HONG KONG: Further to the award of Cisco Teleprence Video Master ATP last year, Vega has had its status upgraded to become Cisco’s TelePresence Video Master Multinational ATP partner. This designation demonstrates Vega’s ability to provide a one-stop solution and service to their customers on a global basis through their “customer-first” approach. A Cisco TelePresence Video Master Multinational ATP partner is a partner with the greatest depth of knowledge and skill in deploying the entire video endpoint portfolio, including the immersive solutions, and the ability to seamlessly integrate the infrastructure network and architecture aspects of the customer’s space with the Cisco TelePresence solutions. Only partners with deep networking and Advanced Unified Communications capabilities, regional to global coverage, and a strong and mature services practice will be considered as the candidates of this partnership program. Vega is obviously pleased to get this recognition from Cisco. As Vega has already established 17 offices across 12
Laurie Chow, Managing Director of Vega
countries, the award as a Multinational ATP is a good recognition on the professionalism of Vega in relation to the Cisco Telepresence solution. Together with a very experienced and fast growing professional services team,
Vega believes it is in a good position to support their customers on real-time collaboration through Cisco’s advanced technology and solutions. www.vega-global.com
First showing of DIS DDS5900 in Korea KOREA: DIS new discussion system DDS5900 was introduced for the first time in Korea during the KOBA show 2012 and the response from the customers and visitors was overwhelming. At the booth, DIS Korea also displayed customized front plates and backup units specifically made for the Korean market. The long list of installations and very large international summits held in Korea makes DIS a very well-known and highly acknowledged brand when it comes to professional conference and discussion systems within Korea. DIS Korea’s dedication and highly motivated people who have an in-depth understanding of DIS products have enabled the company to successfully penetrate the Korean market for many years, offering high value for customers who choose DIS. The KOBA show attracted around 41,000 visitors and for DIS Korea it was again a very successful outing. www.diskorea.com
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Systems Integration Asia August - September 2012
Verrex achieves Global InfoComm Diamond CAVSP Designation INTERNATIONAL: Verrex has qualified as an InfoComm International Diamond Certified Audiovisual Solutions Provider (CAVSP). This designation recognizes that over 50 percent of Verrex’s global technical, sales and customer service staff have earned and maintain general or advanced CTS certifications through completion of relevant coursework from the InfoComm Academy. In addition, of the 50 percent, 15 percent have advanced CTS designation. “A CAVSP designation gives AV companies a competitive advantage in the marketplace,” said Randal A. Lemke, Ph.D., InfoComm International’s Chief Executive Officer. “Clients of audiovisual communications and presentation systems can be confident of professionalism and an aspiration to excellence when working with these companies that have invested in education and training to stay current on the latest AV technologies and techniques.” InfoComm awards individual Certification to audiovisual professionals who have demonstrated knowledge and comprehension of the science and technology used in communications
including audio, video, display and systems. Technicians, engineers, designers, salespeople, customer service personnel, managers and executives are eligible to take the individual certification test. “Verrex has long been an advocate for industry certifications,” said Verrex director of corporate training, Eric Ponczek. “As communications technology continues to evolve, it is crucial clients know the company they’ve entrusted with their AV investment has the appropriate credentials and skill sets to deliver quality design, installation and support. Verrex is proud to have once again achieved the Diamond designation.” The company-level CAVSP recognition program is the only such program available for the commercial audiovisual industry. In addition to confirming that a percentage of the company’s employees are InfoComm certified and have completed important coursework, the Diamond CAVSP designation means that Verrex complies with “10 Standards of Excellence” developed in collaboration with industry experts to emphasize the best practices of audiovisual businesses.
The Standards of Excellence are a guidepost for audiovisual companies and professionals who place the customer first and offer quality audiovisual solutions. They include the commitment to provide complete customer satisfaction with audiovisual solutions that provide value to the client. They convey the importance that audiovisual solutions providers place on their own skills development through continuing education. They also cover the critical role that audiovisual professionals play as partners with IT specialists, architects, building managers and others. Founded in 1947, Verrex is a global designbuild integrator and managed services provider of complex conferencing, collaboration and presentation technologies. Specializing in enterprisewide corporate solutions, clients engage Verrex to unify and enrich how they communicate, collaborate and articulate through videoconferencing, digital signage and other AV systems locally and globally. With principle offices in North America, Europe and Asia, Verrex has positioned its presence to serve key corporate hubs around the globe. www.verrex.com
Jaime Vallés to lead Cisco for Asia Pacific, Japan and Greater China Region effectively driving growth in both developed and emerging countries. “Asia Pacific, Japan and Greater China represent a huge opportunity for future growth and innovation for Cisco. This internal appointment demonstrates the great strength and depth of the Cisco leadership talent across the world. Jaime is a great leader with a wealth of experience, passion and outstanding skills in building and leading teams, creating and executing strategic business plans and forging strong relationships built on trust and integrity,” said Rob Lloyd, executive vice president, Worldwide Operations, Cisco. ASIA: Cisco has announced that Jaime Vallés has been appointed as the company’s new leader for Asia Pacific, Japan and Greater China (APJC). Vallés takes over from Edzard Overbeek who was recently appointed head of Cisco’s Global Services business. Owen Chan will remain chairman and CEO of Cisco’s Greater China region.
Mr. Vallés was previously the senior vice president of Cisco’s Latin America region and has a strong track record of success in emerging countries, turning Latin America into one of Cisco’s fastest growing regions since he joined the company in 2007. With more than 20 years of leadership experience in the IT industry, Jaime brings to APJC a broad understanding of Cisco’s strategic direction and unique experience in
Prior to Cisco, Mr. Vallés was president of Sun Microsystems Latin America for seven years, and president of Sun Microsystems Mexico before that. He also previously held senior leadership positions at IBM. Jaime Vallés will be based in Singapore. www.cisco.com
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Hoyts becomes first exhibitor in the world to deploy the Christie Duo mainstream multiplexes today,” added Wrightson. “We pride ourselves on responding to customer needs and when numerous exhibitors approached us in late 2011 and into January with requests for a flexible and economical alternative to the industry‘s standard premium-cinema experience, Christie responded with Christie Duo. With Christie Duo, Hoyts is receiving the ultimate in performance, at a reasonable price point,” said Jim Dukes, product manager for Christie Duo, Christie Entertainment Solutions.
AUSTRALIA: Hoyts has chosen Christie Duo™ for the theater’s premium custom projection needs, lighting up Australia’s biggest traditional screen – the Blacktown Cinema 5 – with the brightest images available. The singlemirror configuration of Christie Duo with projectors from the Christie Solaria® CP4230 Series was installed in time for the June 21 premiere of Snow White and the Huntsman. “We’re very excited to be the first exhibitor in the world to deploy the Christie Duo single-mirror, 90 degree projector configuration, which is a cutting-edge technology that delivers the brightest, pixel-perfect 4K images onto Australia’s largest traditional movie screen,” said Adam Wrightson, executive director and CTO of Hoyts Cinema Technology Group. “The technical capabilities that the product opens up for us will help us give our guests all the features of advanced cinema that they expect from Hoyts.” “The light levels achievable with the Christie Duo are unprecedented for large screens. Most dual projector installations are installed for 3D output, and configured to use only one of the projectors for 2D films, resulting in lower than acceptable light levels. Christie’s solution allows both projectors to be utilized for playback of 2D content, delivering spectacular images on large screens. Christie’s technology ensures that convergence is not a problem, with Christie Duo perfectly aligning each of the 8 million pixels from the two projectors,” added Wrightson. Hoyts Blacktown is the destination for Sydney moviegoers to enjoy
Xtremescreen – Australia’s Largest Multiplex Screen – with its recordbreaking 28.1-meter wide screen. The entire complex features 10 state-of-theart cinemas, with comfortable stadium seating and the latest Digital Surround Sound. The engineering teams from Hoyts’ Cinema Technology Group and Christie worked flawlessly together to resolve operational issues and get the world’s first single-mirror installation up and running in just a few days. To ensure the sound experience matched that of the new visual experience, Hoyts also replaced the auditoriums speakers and sound processing equipment with the latest equipment from QSC. “The system has been tested with 4K content and in my opinion is second to none in regards to Big Screen experiences available in
Christie Duo, available for the 2K or 4K Christie Solaria® Series digital cinema projectors, is an integration kit specially designed to optimize 3D and other special effects on the largest screens. It features a choice of configurations including a compact stacking system for 3D installations, or a physical configuration that exactly aligns every pixel on the screen for optimal 2D and 3D presentations. With automated features that calibrate, align and optimize the images for 2K or 4K projectors, Christie Duo delivers a completely seamless, premium movie experience for the world’s largest screens at a cost that all manner and size of exhibitors can afford. Christie Duo answers the global market demand for a solution that delivers a high performance and financially accessible premium movie experience. Hoyts currently operates a total of 55 multiplexes and 448 screens in Australia and New Zealand. www.christiedigital.com www.hoyts.com.au
DCN-D Discussion Unit Talk about perfection
Bosch’s new DCN-D Discussion Unit combines elegant, slim design that will complement any interior with the superior sound quality and reliability of the DCN Next Generation System. With over 60 years of experience in conferencing, the new DCN-D Discussion Unit and the enhanced performance of the central control unit (CCU), the DCN Next Generation System from Bosch offers the ideal solution for all your conferencing needs. For more information visit our website or contact your nearest Bosch representative. www.boschsecurity.asia.
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Systems Integration Asia August - September 2012
Crestron Asia opens office in Indonesia to take the advantage of this new establishment to provide superior and pioneering services. We are also confident in the sustained business growth of commercial and residential markets in Indonesia.” The new office showcases Crestron’s unparalleled integrated solutions with the set-up of product display and demonstration areas. Crestron’s state-of– the-art hardware and software solutions include DigitalMedia™, Fusion EM™, Fusion RV™, touch screens, Apple® Control and lighting controls. www.crestronasia.com
INDONESIA: Crestron Asia Limited (“Crestron Asia”), the Asia headquarters of Crestron Electronics, Inc. (Crestron) has announced the opening of its new office in Indonesia. Indonesia is the largest economy in Southeast Asia and is one of the emerging markets in the world. The launch of the new office in Indonesia not only shows Crestron Asia’s continuous commitment to the expansion of operations throughout Asia, but also signifies the increasing needs of control and automation systems in the region. Crestron Asia Indonesia is located in the commercial district of Kemang, Jakarta, offering direct sales, technical support,
training programs as well as product demonstration to dealers, consultants and end users. Kanny Leong, the Director, Asia Operations of Crestron Asia comments “With an average of 6% GDP growth rate in the past few years in Indonesia, we strategically show our presence in this country. It represents a strong commitment to the country and a vote of confidence in its future. Crestron Asia will continue to invest resources to support our business partners and customers in this emerging market.” Ben Lim, the Regional Sales Director of Crestron Asia says “We are pleased
WOW Vision launches into social media SINGAPORE: WOW Vision is pleased to announce that it has joined the social media trend on entities such as Facebook, YouTube, LinkedIn and Twitter. “With these platforms we hope to reach and listen to the market, as well as understand their needs and concerns so that we can build solutions that would help improve their productivity. Leveraging on the power of social media, we aim to build a community that embraces technology, innovation and challenges,” said Dr. Dinesh, CEO of WOW Vision. The WOW Vision community can now keep themselves informed about the latest technology trends, post their reviews of WOW Vision’s products on their Facebook wall, follow for up-todate information, from market news,
developments in the market to real-time company’s news as well as current and upcoming product offerings. WOW Vision has more than 10 years of experience in the world of effective communication and digital presentationcollaboration technology. It delivers unique and value-added solutions such as VEOS, VISTA and RIPPLE presentation tools that blazes ahead with excellence in IT and AV convergence. WOW Vision has offices in 11 countries globally including Singapore, Malaysia, Australia, India, Hong Kong, Macau and China, Thailand,
United Kingdom, United States and Dubai. Official Facebook Page : https://www.facebook.com/wowvision Official YouTube Channel : www.youtube.com/user/wowvision11 Official LinkedIn Page : http://www.linkedin.com/company/wowvision?trk=tabs_biz_home Official Twitter Link: www.twitter.com/wow_vision www.wowvision.com
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Kramer’s RC-74DL Master Room Controller features unique LCD Group text labels Kramer Electronics has introduced the highly versatile RC-74DL master room controller. The RC-74DL can function either as a standalone unit that controls room facilities such as: lights, screens, drapes, etc., or as part of a more demanding K-Net™ room control system. The RC-has 12 configurable, multi-colour front panel buttons with unique LCD text button group labels. Each button supports the ability to hold multiple layers of functionality for the same button. It also has a rotary controller that may be configured as a digital volume control knob or set up for any other function, utilizing variable settings and adding to this unit’s flexibility and intuitive ease-of-use.
The unit has an Ethernet port and three bidirectional RS-232 ports for controlling AV equipment, four relay contact closure ports that conveniently control other room items related to the AV system and two general purpose I/O ports that can function as digital inputs/outputs or analog inputs, interfacing with a variety of devices such as sensors, switches, LEDs, or relays.
The RC-74DL is compatible with Kramer’s Site-CTRL™ software for remote room control and monitoring over Ethernet. The unit’s features are configured via Kramer’s GUI based configuration software, K-Config™. The unit is easily installed in wooden or plaster walls with the supplied mud-ring. www.kramerelectronics.com
beyerdynamic launches new wireless conference system Quinta Telecommunications Standards Institute (ETSI) and can be integrated into existing or new building computer networks that comply with the IEEE 802.1 IT standard (AVB). The numerous functions with which the meeting can be controlled, include the simple operation and configuration via Smartphone or tablet PC.
German traditional audio major beyerdynamic, has launched its 5th generation of wireless conference systems, Quinta. This latest development from beyerdynamic is influenced by all the experience the renowned audio specialist has gained in the field of wireless conference systems. The control unit of the Quinta system meets all requirements regarding
operational safety, reliability or transmission security. There are three frequency bands (2.4 / 5.2 / 5.8 GHz) for reliable wireless communication. The switching of the channels can be done either automatically or manually. However, frequency changes during operation are rendered completely silent. The system already meets the latest regulations of the European
For the chairman, delegate and double delegate microphone units there are gooseneck microphones with XLR connector in four different lengths available. The solid housing, the most robust and scratch-resistant paint from the automotive industry combined with brushed stainless steel give the microphone units a high-quality look. Other details such as back-lit keys for dark rooms, inscription in Braille for the equality of all participants or the programmable function button for the chairman play a decisive role. In short, with Quinta, beyerdynamic presents an attractive, reliable and future-proof wireless conference system which provides a variety of features and options, and meets various requirements perfectly. www.beyerdynamic.com
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Barco new OverView M Series LED video walls aimed at standard, demanding control rooms Barco’s new OverView M series of LED-lit rear-projection video walls joins the existing OverView O series, allowing Barco to offer every customer the video wall solution that best suits his or her needs. The ďŹ rst range of OverView M video wall cubes to hit the market are the 4:3 aspect ratio versions, available with screen diagonals of 60â€?, 67â€? and 80â€?. Widescreen models will become available as well. With the OverView M series, Barco answers the market’s call for industry-standard video walls with good colour reliability, image quality, and brightness. This makes this new series the standard video walls for demanding small- to medium-sized control rooms. The series beneďŹ ts from the many advantages of LED lighting, including long lifetime, low power consumption, and great uptime. Barco’s unique liquid cooling system also greatly reduces the temperature of the LEDs, resulting in a signiďŹ cantly longer LED lifetime. Furthermore, the Sense5 automatic white point and full colour calibration system ensures uniformity of colour and brightness levels. This system works with an advanced colour sensor that continuously measures the primary colour levels of the entire wall, and adjusts as necessary. www.barco.com
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Systems Integration Asia August - September 2012
Christie’s Mirage M and J Series offer expanded options for the visualization markets
Christie Mirage WU14K-M
Christie®, the first to market a fully stereoscopic 3D DLP® projector more than a decade ago, announced an expansion to its product offerings for the visualization markets with the addition of its next-generation Mirage M Series high performance digital projectors. The M Series joins the latest Mirage J Series, adding three new 3D capable products to the dual-lamp platform for a total of 21 projectors in the Mirage Series lineup. The Mirage Series offers the broadest range of 3-chip DLP® 3D active stereo digital projectors – single projector or in a multi-projector array – with advanced features that are specifically created for the demanding needs of the visualization market.
education and training, government, science, theme parks and transportation. The three new models in the Mirage M series are: Mirage DS+14K-M, Mirage HD14K-M and Mirage WU14K-M. The Mirage M series projectors consist of either SXGA+, HD or WUXGA resolution and now feature from 6,000 up to 12,500 lumens – the highest brightness available at 110V. They are easy to set up and configure, and deliver power and flexibility in a proven, high definition 3D platform.
Both Mirage M and Mirage J Series projector platforms now come with an Intelligent Lens System (ILS™) that features auto lens calibration and an all new version Christie Twist™ hardware that is included as a standard feature of the projector at no additional cost.
Recently introduced, the Christie Mirage J Series, is well suited for the visualization market. It couples the benefits of xenon illumination – for the most natural colour accuracy and stability – with the most advanced electronics, performance and flexibility in stereoscopic digital projection today. The Mirage J Series models come in SXGA+ (4:3), HD (16:9) and WUXGA (16:10) resolution to suit any application.
The new Christie Twist hardware provides enhanced built-in geometric warping with sharper imagery, and advanced edge-blending capabilities that reduce or eliminate all electronic blending artifacts to cover the full gamut of the most demanding of immersive visualization markets, including aerospace, architecture, energy,
The Mirage M and J Series projectors come out of the box ready to produce active stereo projection from four different types of 3D source inputs: Up to 120Hz native input over a single Dual Link DVI-D cable or VGA cable, a true 120Hz image from two 60Hz frame locked sources for compatibility with most passive stereo input sources,
frame doubled content from 48-60Hz for maximum system compatibility with single link DVI-D or analog and full HDCP support of multiple mode 3D sources from consumer devices including triple flash at 144Hz. Both the Mirage M and J series offer a host of options including HDSDI and other input cards and can also project polarized passive stereo output with an optional filter. A three-year warranty is standard on all models. Overall, the Mirage Series projectors offer a wide range of 3D display solutions for single and multi-projector arrays in three illumination platform options: Mirage M with dual lamps that provide an extended lamp life up to 3,000 hours, Mirage J with long life Xenon illumination for the most natural colour accuracy and stability up to 1500 hours as well as the Mirage WU-L with LED illumination featuring 60,000 hours of illumination life and stunning colour. Mirage Series projectors are compatible with Christie AutoCAL and AutoStack™, using a camera-based system for the automatic alignment and blending calibration of projector arrays. In addition, users have remote, real-time monitoring through the Christie Net™ web interface. www.christiedigital.com
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Bosch introduces new discussion unit for its DCN Next Generation Conference System Bosch Security Systems introduces a new addition to the DCN Next Generation Conference System family. The DCN-D Discussion Unit combines an elegant, innovative design with a superior acoustical performance.
Every unit can be configured to become the chairman unit. Once done the unit allows the chairman to control the proceedings by registering requests to speak and overriding delegates with a priority button.
With its sleek control panel and intuitive layout, this brand new discussion unit has an instantly familiar feel. The large, ergonomic buttons allow for an easy operation. Advanced acoustic technology makes it easy to hear exactly what’s going on, so that even new users can feel at ease and in control.
There are five versions of the DCN-D Discussion Unit available. From a basic version with fixed microphone allowing a delegate to simply talk and listen, up to an extended version with pluggable microphone, electronic voting facility and a built-in channel selector for language selection of up to 31 interpretations.
The curved shape, slim design and elegant combination of stylish silver and black in a matt finish ensure the DCN-D Discussion Unit perfectly fits with the décor of all kinds of different conference rooms. This is vital to create an environment that encourages constructive dialogue. All discussion units feature built-in loudspeakers, a microphone which can be activated with a single touch, headphone sockets and volume control.
With its attractive design and improved acoustical performance, the DCN-D Discussion Unit fits perfectly into Bosch’s DCN Next Generation Conference System portfolio and offers customers a range of options to best fit their individual conferencing needs. www.boschsecurity.com
Dual Link DVI Extender Direct-Pluggable Dual Link DVI Small Module, DDFX-100-TR
Extends Dual link DVI up to 500m over a two (2) LC multi-mode fibers Ext Supports up to WQUXGA (3840x2400) at 33Hz or Sup WQXGA (2560x1600) at 60Hz Has Self-EDID feature reading EDID from Display and storing in Transmitter Compact Enough to be plugged directly into DVI source and display Co Has Wide Operating Temperature Range: a Я Certifies wtih FCC/CE Cer
WWW.OPTICIS.COM OPTICIS HQ
#907 Byucksan Technopia, 434-6 Sangdaewon-dong, Chungwon-gu, Sungnam, Gyeonggi-do, 462-716 South Korea Tel: +82 31 737-8033 Fax: +82 31 737-8079 E-mail: tosales@opticis.com
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Systems Integration Asia August - September 2012
Extron Fiber Optic FOX USB Extender offers efficiency for KVM requirements
Extron Electronics new FOX USB Extender is a fiber optic transmitter and receiver set capable of extending USB 2.0 signals over very long distances. Peripheral devices can be located up to 10 km (6.25 miles) from the host computer. The FOX USB Extender is an efficient solution for professional AV system designs that require KVM - Keyboard/ Video/Mouse support, reducing the need for additional IP network drops, equipment, and software. To ensure proper system boot-up and operation in switching environments, the transmitter enables uninterrupted communication between the host computer and USB device. The FOX USB Extender is
ideal for extending USB signals over long distances in a wide variety of professional AV applications. The FOX USB Extender enables long haul transmission of USB 2.0, 1.1, and 1.0 compliant signals with data rates up to 480 Mbps, and peripheral emulation ensures reliable communication whether or not a tie is made to a connected device. Both the transmitter and receiver include front panel LED indicators for visual confirmation of system activity. As an added benefit that simplifies integration, the receiver provides an active four-port hub for simultaneous connection of multiple peripheral devices.
As part of the extensive FOX Series of fiber optic products from Extron, the FOX USB Extender can be used for simple point-to-point applications or in combination with FOX Series matrix switchers for support of signal distribution systems up to 1000x1000 and larger. Also, when used in conjunction with an Extron FOX Series HDMI, DVI, or VGA extender, the FOX USB Extender is capable of transmitting KVM signals very long distances over a fiber optic infrastructure. www.extron.com
KLOTZ Cables new RAMCAT5 system cable combines network connection, digital audio and power supply in a single product KLOTZ Cables, designed the new RAMCAT 5 (RCSB1D1P) system cable for applications in the fields of audio networks and DMX lighting control. The cable is particularly suitable for HiQnetTM cabling. It combines the outstanding signal transmission quality of RC5SB network connection cable with a digital audio cable and integrated power supply cable.
The two RC5SB cables have solid conductors with diameter of 0.52 mm and low signal attenuation, enabling them to be used for network connections of up to 100 m. In addition, their structure design features a cross-shaped stranding element making them ideal for outdoor use. The audio element of the RAMCAT5 system cable offers characteristic impedance of 110 Ω, ensuring that the
cable is equally suitable for analogue/ digital audio and control signals. The power cable has a conductor crosssection of 3 x 2.5 mm2 for use up to 100 m. www.klotz-ais.com
www.dbaudio.com
The new d&b xS and xA-Series loudspeakers are real integration systems for installations. With all the trappings; loudspeakers, electronics, mechanical accessories, remote network, software, service and support, they meet the most demanding integration requirements. X is White, the other Black range from d&b.
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Bose introduces latest FreeSpace Zone amplifiers
FreeSpace IZA 250-LZ front
FreeSpace IZA 250-LZ rear
Bose Professional Systems Division introduced its latest FreeSpace products: the FreeSpace IZA 250-LZ/190-HZ integrated zone amplifiers, and the FreeSpace ZA 250-LZ/190HZ zone amplifiers. Each is easy to install and use, and offers greater flexibility and configurability for creating premium sound solutions for retail stores, schools, hotels, restaurants, and houses of worship. The new FreeSpace IZA integrated zone amplifiers are designed for background/foreground music and paging applications. Proprietary Bose Opti-voice paging provides seamless paging over music, ensuring clear, natural speech is heard at the appropriate sound level in the selected area. When used with Bose FreeSpace loudspeakers, sound is further optimized through onboard selectable EQ presets.
For even greater flexibility, the FreeSpace IZA and ZA amplifiers can be used as standalone products from any RCA line-level source, or with other loudspeakers and legacy systems. They integrate reliable, high-quality Class-D amplification to provide powered channels that can operate at low (250-LZ models) or high (190-HZ) impedance: 2 X 50 W (4-Ohms) or 1 x 90 W (70/100V systems), respectively.
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Each amplifier is compact, lightweight, and simple to install and use. They can be placed unobtrusively on a table, desk or shelf. Set-up is controlled from the front and rear panels, eliminating the need for a computer; users can easily make tonal adjustments, connect to and change sources or deliver pages. Tonal balance in each zone is automatically maintained across all volumes with Dynamic Equalization – a Bose innovation - so there’s no need for manual adjustments. Optional wall-mount user interfaces for the FreeSpace IZA amplifiers enable volume and source selection controls to be placed away from the amplifier, in a separate room. An optional Rack Mount Kit accessory for the FreeSpace ZA amplifiers provides further flexibility for fixed rack-mount applications. www.pro.Bose.com
Triple band, maximum audio quality and transmission security, Audio / Video Bridging, Smartphone control, removable gooseneck microphones with Scudio Technology, custom panels, braille, voice activation.
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The new FreeSpace ZA zone amplifiers provide basic amplification and sound system expansion when using frontend signal processing from Bose FreeSpace business music systems and Bose ControlSpace engineered sound processors. They can also be combined with the FreeSpace IZA amplifiers to function as one system - with double the power - sharing the same music paging sources, master volume control, and optional loudspeaker equalization.
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Systems Integration Asia August - September 2012
AMX Rapid Project Maker takes the mickey out of programming
Imagine configuring a standard conference room with an AMX touch panel user interface that integrates a video-conferencing system, DVD player, display and a laptop in minutes! What generally might have taken 60 hours can now be accomplished far more quickly and efficiently with no programming required. When AMX ran its branding communications message highlighting SIMPLIFY, they weren’t kidding.
What is the Rapid Project Maker (RPM)? RPM is a cloud-based application that lets installers configure an AMX system online using a step-by-step wizard-based approach. RPM simplifies more than just the configuration, it is a comprehensive tool designed to help throughout the entire project – from start to finish. With no programming required, installers can configure the perfect conference room experience that includes touch panel user interface pages and system installation instructions. Also, because it’s cloud-based, installers can access the project from almost anywhere. Imagine how easy it would now be to collaborate on a project with fellow team members regardless of where everyone is. Besides simplifying single-room deployments, RPM also automatically adjusts to the technology and functionality selected each time a project is configured. Client branding was also taken into consideration with dedicated space available for the client’s logo in the finished UI.
Four Easy Steps and you are done Step 1: Access the RPM Configurator from anywhere over the Web
Step 2: Configure your room or meeting space Step 3: Use the RPM Loader report to install the control files Step 4: Control your room or meeting space We are not sure if it can get any easier than this?
RPM’s advantages Being cloud-based, users can access the system from anywhere that provides web accessibility. With no programming required, the user can configure the project, create a user interface and generate step-by-step instructions on how to install the system. Users can store their projects on the RPM cloud – rpm. amx.com, allowing installers to access and manage them from anywhere. There is no training required. Entry level technicians can follow RPM’s intuitive step-by-step process to configure an entire system from start to finish. The system prompts you automatically to ensure that your configurations match the product specifications. That feature alone saves a lot of hassle. RPM even generates installation and purchasing documentation in addition to complete controller code and touch panel files to make the configuration process more convenient. And since RPM is backed by AMX’s 30 years of AV system expertise, you can rest assured that the system designs and code you generate with RPM are rock-solid.
party manufacturers. Obviously when it comes to the A/V Switcher and Touch Panel they are AMX solutions.Third party manufacturers specifications included in the system include Aux Sources, Cable, Satellite or TV tuner, DVD Players, DVR Recorders, Document Cameras, Laptops, Room PCs, TV/LCD/Plasma Displays, VCRs, Video Conference systems, Cameras, Video Projectors, Keypads, Lighting System, Shades/ Blinds/Curtains, Motorized Screens and Projector Lifts. Audio Conferencing and Power Distribution Units are expected to be added on soon.
Can I get access to RPM? For now, AMX is inviting key system integrators and dealers, to give RPM a try. Their involvement is meant to help AMX further develop the product through their feedback. It is also to help them maintain an advantage over their competitors. Shortening programming time means saving not only time but manpower and money which then enables companies to grab more opportunities.
The Final Word “RPM is a feature rich tool that enables system programmers with little or no AMX programming experience to implement control solutions for meeting rooms, teaching spaces and lecture/ presentation venues,” said Robert Noble, AMX’s CTO. “It also functions as a time saving tool for seasoned designers who need to rapidly design and deploy solutions.”
Third Party product specifications make the RPM a valuable asset
It is safe to say that AMX Rapid Project Maker is truly revolutionary.
No man is an island and in this case AMX knows that the success of its RPM solution lies in working with third
www.amxrpm.com
Systems Integration Asia August - September 2012
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APPLICATION OVERVIEW OF AMX RAPID PROJECT MAKER
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Start by entering your project details including project name and description. Then, select a master controller.
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Next, add the devices you wish to include in your project. This may include controllable and uncontrolled devices, along with AMX keypads.
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Select source devices and their destination to route audio and video to the desired input or output on the AV switcher. You can also bypass the switcher by assigning a device to connect directly to a display.
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Create activity macros for your system. You can add devices and functions for one-touch simplicity.
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Choose a theme you would like to display on your completed system control panel.
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Click “Generate” to complete the project and generate a downloadable package of files and/or to view a final system report. Your system is ready to deploy!
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CASIO’s lampless projectors tackle total ownership cost and sustainability issues Casio’s introduction of its LED / laser hybrid technology projectors more than a year ago, has set the company apart in the lampless projector segment. With a recent Pacific Media Associates quarterly forecast suggesting that worldwide shipments for front projectors are expected to reach 11.3 million units in 2012, it is indeed significant to take note of Casio’s lampless strategy. Interestingly more manufacturers are jumping on the band-wagon to offer lampless projectors as total ownership cost and sustainability become key issues for buyers. To maintain their leading status, Casio has introduced further features to its projectors. As users begin to understand the significant benefits of lampfree technology versus lampbased technology such as very low maintenance and longer life span which lowers the total cost of ownership, their mindset and acceptance of lamp-free technology has seen Casio’s market position developing at a good pace.
hybrid light source enables big saving on power consumption. Casio’s hybrid light source saves power consumption by approximately 30% compared to conventional model using high pressure mercury lamp.
First let us understand Casio’s technology. On the ecology aspect, Casio’s projectors achieve high brightness without the use of a high-pressure mercury lamp containing mercury, a substance which has a negative effect on the environment. Casio achieves this by projecting three colours through a DLP chip: red emitted by a high-lumen red LED, green converted from blue laser light with a phosphor, and blue emitted by a high-lumen blue LED.* (*Casio’s XJ-A series and XJ-M series generate the blue colour through a blue laser light). This also means that the Laser and LED
On the economy aspect, Casio’s light source has a lifespan of approximately 20,000 hours which enables users to reduce maintenance and cut operating costs. Projectors with mercury-lamps require replacements. Furthermore, the brightness degradation in Casio’s projectors is more gradual than with mercury lamps and vivid image quality is maintained even over long-term use. From the usability point of view the projectors reach maximum brightness in no more than five seconds, and no cool-down is needed when turning them off which makes it easy to operate and essentially saves time. This feature also contributes to reduced power consumption.
Systems Integration Asia August - September 2012
PRODUCT FOCUS
Finally Casio’s light source significantly improves colour reproduction making colours of projected images more clearer, sharper, brighter and more powerful than what conventional projectors can achieve. Casio’s LED / Hybrid technology has been implemented in its four Series. The Slim, Standard, Pro and ShortThrow series, thus effectively enabling a Casio projector to be used in almost any environment. Casio’s light source technology enables its projectors to achieve 2500 ANSI lumens, 3000 ANSI lumens and an impressive 4000 ANSI lumens. Casio also features WXGA resolution models. With newer laptops featuring wide-screen, this makes it easier to set-up the projection with Casio’s WXGA models. This also offers the advantage of capturing the full details from the laptops.
Casio XJ-ST155 ceiling mounted projector
Some of the models in Casio’s Slim, Standard, Pro and Short-Throw series feature the following userfriendly features: MobiShow(R) allows presenters to display their presentation from their smart phones and other mobile devices via a Wi-Fi connection. The devices would have to have the MobiShow software installed in them. USB memory compatible models are equipped with a USB 2.0 host function that enables projection of presentation materials from the USB memory. Moving and still images as well as Powerpoint files with animation effects can be displayed after conversion with the bundled EZ-Converter FA software.
Casio XJ-A141 2500 ANSI lumens XGA model
The recent InfoComm 2012 exhibition in Vegas saw more manufacturers introducing their lampless projectors and to keep ahead of the pack, Casio has introduced six upgraded models in its Slim Series. The XJ-A256, XJ-A251 3000 ANSI lumens WXGA resolution models; the XJ-A246, XJ-A241 2500 ANSI lumens WXGA resolution models and the XJA146 and XJ-A141 2500 ANSI lumens XGA models. Two new models were also introduced in the Pro Series. The XJH2650 and XJ-H2600, 3500 ANSI lumens WXGA resolution models.
Wireless communication with Windows PC can be conducted using the bundled wireless adaptor. Up to 32 computers can be connected at one time and users can also view up to four PCs on an individual screen simultaneously. Casio also provides downloadable software for wireless communication with Mac computers. Intelligent Brightness Control is available in all models in all the series. A built-in sensor senses the brightness of the surrounding environment and adjusts the projection brightness automatically. Eye strain and power consumption is reduced when projecting at optimal brightness. Five levels of brightness adjustment is also available manually.
The Standard, Pro and Short-throw Series models also feature the DLP® 3D projection function. This function enables projection of 3D contents onto a screen. To view the 3D projection requires users to use Casio’s 3D Glasses that are sold separately. 3D projection is not possible using the HDMI input terminal.
Casio’s Interactive Pointer, YA-P10
The Pro and Short-throw Series models being targeted at the corporate and education market also feature the Interactive pointing function. Presenters can conduct pointing and PC operations on the projection screen using the separately sold Interactive Pointer (YA-P10) as a remote mouse. The YA-P10 bundled Presentation Draw Software turns the projection screen into an interactive whiteboard that enables users to write characters and draw graphics. Casio offers a warranty that covers both the light-source and hardware on all Casio Green Slim, Pro, Short Throw and Signature models for three years or 6,000 hours of use, whichever comes first. Casio’s strategy to be a pioneer in the lampless projection technology is bearing fruit as it claims its spot as a market leader in this segment. Not sitting in its laurels, Casio continues to offer features to beat off new competitors. www.casio.co.jp
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Systems Integration Asia August - September 2012
AMX holds first Pro AV India Consultants’ Meet 311.6 quintilian combinations of video resolutions – a truly mind boggling figure which can support all extremely high definition video displays inventions possible in the future. Value adding to the whole programme with direct presence was AMX’s Chief Technology Officer Robert L Noble III who elaborated on the RMS (Resource Management Suite) for creating a ‘perfect meeting room.’ He also elaborated how the system helps enterprises connect one another at reduced energy consumption and costs and thereby contributing to green ambiences. The programme was also marked by interactive sessions on X-Series, MXTs, and a live demo of Rapid Project Maker (RPM) which, ‘took the participants by amazement.’ The consultants with AMX staff
INDIA: In what is hailed as the first ever Pro AV India consultants’ meet, global leader of control systems and automation solutions AMX organized a one-day ‘India Consultants’ Meet 2012’ recently in Jaipur, the historic capital of North-West Indian State of Rajasthan. Organized at the famed Choki Dhani resort – one of the most acclaimed five-star luxury resorts in Southeast Asia – the programme was a sort of ‘technotainment’ blending entertainment with technology dope and vice versa. For, the one-day technical deliberations were preceded by a nice evening-out through the resort that characteristically encapsulates the cultural richness of Rajasthan in its totality. As many as twelve consultants from eight top Pro AV consultant firms from across India, apart from the AMX teams from Bangalore and Delhi, participated in the programme. Focused on “Game Changing Pro AV Technology,” the consultants were taken through a journey of truly gamechanging technology traits by AMX. The consultants were exposed to the path-breaking technology solutions like Smartscale and InstaGate Pro, revolutionary products like Enova DGX/ DVX, new future-ready X-Series multitouch panels, Hydraports, and the Rapid Project Maker. The session also included detailed exposure to how AMX does its R&D, and develops its future ready products. Conducted by individual product managers for each product category, the sessions were well received by the consultant community.
“This was the first ever Pro AV India Consultant Meet. The coming together of all the AV consultants under one roof for the first time was an event in itself,” says Mayank Gupta, Country Manager-AMX India. “The focus was on how to make Pro AV technology ‘simply beautiful, beautifully simple,’” he says, adding “whether it is switching with Smartscale or InstaGate Pro for overcoming HDCP compliance challenges or just making life easier for end-user through innovative products like Modero X-Series Touch panels, it was all about making technology simple and to the larger benefit of the community.” The journey into the technology domain began with Shaun Robinson, DirectorProduct Management talking about AMX product development processes detailing various involved– solution concepts, product developments, testing, followed by test-release for field performance testing, and finally the global release. The session apparently gave a thorough understanding to the participants on the R & D strengths that AMX puts into making its solutions. The session was followed by individual sessions by product managers Jeff Burch and Paul Hands who interacted with the participants through video conferencing from AMX global headquarters. Burch detailed about the new Enova range of device control product – the Enova DVX – highlighting the key features of Enova DVX’s simplicity with SmartScale on all video outputs, InstaGate Pro HDMI/HDCP Switching as simple as analog with endto-end distribution without constraints. Hands highlighted the SmartScale from AMX, the Enova DGX support
The consultants who attended included: Neil Langford and Rishab Kumblar from Spacematrix; Kelvin Ashby-King and Chadrashekar Naik from T2 Consulting; Vineet Singh and Selvyn from Hewshott; Harmeet Singh and Claron D’Souza from ihD; Hemant Vats from Extreme Global Systems; Rajeev Arora from Qubix Technologies; Abdul Waheed from RST Technologies; and Dilip Tikle from Connect Dots. “The programme was good; it helps us, the consultant community, understand what’s up there from the product manufacturers, in this case AMX,” T2 Consulting’s Principal Consultant Kelvin Ashby-King said, adding, “it was nice.” “The programme did help us know how the leading solutions provider had been driving the technology domain,” said Hemant Vats of Extreme Global Systems. “It provided us an insight into the company’s product initiatives so that we stand to incorporate them in our coming projects.” According to Claron D’Souza, DirectorBusiness Development at ihD India, while the consulting community always tries to keep itself abreast with technology, the AMX programme did help them know the newer nuances of the company’s initiatives and strengths. “It probably set an example,” he said, adding, “other solution developers need to take a cue.” “Programmes like these always help understand the processes,” felt Neil Langford, Head-Multimedia and Technology at Spacematrix. The view is more or less summarized by Robert Noble. “The objective of the programme was not just to give a brief of
Systems Integration Asia August - September 2012
products to the professionals who might be well aware of them; it’s rather to take them through the meticulous processes, and the R & D strengths behind the development which stands out from the market,” the CTO says, adding, “it helps both the consultants, the primary users, and, we, the developers, understand each other well.”
INDIA & ME NEWS
Says Mayank Gupta, summing up: “The purpose of this event was to bring the consultants and manufacturers onto a common platform where we could share the ideas for future changes in the Pro AV technology and what direction AMX is taking. It is also aimed at gaining an insight into the market from the consultants who are in touch with the end-clients, and what they visualize about the future changes in the Pro AV industry.”
www.amx.com
The Consultants at the meet
Robert Noble, CTO of AMX making a product presentation
Niclas Brattberg, Director-International Sales at AMX, making a presentation
AMX USA execs Shaun Robinson (left) and Eric Neilson (right) on Video conferencing
The consultants sharing a joyous moment
(L-R) Hemant Vats with Harmeet Singh
(L-R) Mayank Gupta, Claron D’Souza, Hemant Vats, Harmeet Singh and Niclas Brattberg
Consultants taking a break
Robert Noble wearing a Rajasthani traditional turban
Kelvin Ashby-King wearing a Rajasthani traditional turban
The traditional dinner
Abdul Waheed interacts with Neil Langford and Rishab Kumblar
Kelvin Ashby-King with Niclas Brattberg and Robert Noble
Neil with a calf
Abdul Waheed tries his hand at a potter’s wheel
Sharing a joke
Consultants watching a wrestling bout
Folk dancers of glamorous best
Niclas Brattberg, AMX DirectorInternational Marketing also briefed the consultants about the AMX’s initiatives.
According to him, the platform also helped them to capture the consultants’ views on the pain points being faced by end-clients while using networked AV equipment and also that of system integrators while implementing the project. “This common platform helped both the sides to come onto a common page. All of us agreed to do this more often.”
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INDIA & ME NEWS
DIS making big strides in the Middle East MIDDLE EAST: Danish Interpretation Systems (DIS), has been making some aggressive strides in the Middle East market. While the company has bagged some of the most prestigious projects in the region, it has also been pitching its marketing initiatives rather strongly towards expanding to newer places even as it seeks to strengthen its existing base.
attempted. As part of this measure, DIS systems would now be available in retail showrooms in high-end malls in this particular market. That aDawliah has a wide presence across the Arab kingdom with as many as over 30 showrooms, besides its own channel partners, the move is expected to pave deeper roads for DIS, on the lines of what the previous attempt did for its parent (acquirer) Shure. Having turned in good fortunes for Shure, the latest move is also expected to auger well for both the seller and supplier.
“From our side, we were already convinced about Avitec at an early stage; Avitec is a young, dynamic and proactive AV company with a good track record in the AV market in Turkey,” he said, adding, “I´m really looking forward to working with the professional Avitec team. From both sides we have high expectations for developing the Turkish conference equipment market.” In a more recent development, the company has appointed the Riyadhheadquartered Arab electronics distribution leader aDawliah Universal Electronics as its exclusive distributor in Saudi Arabia for the new DDS5900 system. According to the company, the move was aimed at penetrating the low-end segment of the Saudi market which required some simple conferencing systems similar for small enterprises. While DIS has been selling high-end equipment and solutions in the oil-rich and tech-savvy Saudi market for long, it never tried its fortunes for the lowend segment. With the market in many geographies turning more demanding in light of changing regional and global scenario, the Danish conferencing major initiated a move it hasn’t hitherto
Area sales manager Chris Hellmuth states: “as the seminar concept was different compared to previous years, we were worried if we could attract enough people to attend. But although each seminar was three hours long it didn’t scare away our valuable partners at all.” According to him, with their new product lines they exactly meet market demands as well as expectations from clients. On the installation end, DIS’ exclusive dealer-distributor in Iran Cimatech Samaneyeh Aria has recently installed DIS’ DCS6000 conferencing systems at the JAM Petrochemicals’ new conference room in Tehran. JAM is the world’s largest producer of olefin or polypropelene, with headquarters in Tehran and worldwide operations.
AVITEC and DIS confirming their partnership
The company has recently entered into partnership with two AV integration entities for making deeper roads into two big independent geographies within the Middle East. With a view to make inroads into the potentially growing Turkish market, the company entered into partnership with AVITEC. “Our initial negotiations about representation in Turkey started mid-2011,” explained DIS regional sales manager Jan Villumsen.
the Web browser for DDS 5900 or easy handling of CP 7851.
DIS partners from the Middle East
The system comprises a total of 26 DC6190P delegate units in addition to a pair of DC 6990P touch screen units. The whole system has been designed keeping in view the requirement to add interpretation units and video tracking facilities, with a pair of Sony’s EVI-D70 high-end digital video cameras. The audio systems are from Electro-Voice.
DIS product support engineer Steen Teglstrup making a presentation of the latest DIS products to partners
On the marketing and branding aspect, DIS as part of its global promotional activities, sought to leverage the PALME ME 2012 event platform to get the regional DIS partners together and take them through the company’s latest takes in product offerings. The company held two seminars in the first week of May adjacent to the PALME ME event show floor. Selected partners from various countries like Bahrain, Iran, Iraq, Oman, Qatar and UAE have been trained on new products like the Digital Discussion System DDS 5900 as well as on Camera Control Package CP 7851. In his presentations during the programme, product support engineer Steen Teglstrup explained not only the concept and system features, but also pointed out their benefits to users like
DIS conferencing systems at the JAM Petrochemicals conference room
According to Cimatech, the decision to opt for DIS systems was made after careful examination of the brands and solutions available in the market. That the facility was almost fully done before the conferencing integrators were roped in posed a big challenge to the expertise of the installer. However, the successful combination of DIS and Cimatech saw the installation complete and the facility went on-stream without a glitch. While the installation consumed some precious time for this, that the final result came out good made the client happy. www.dis.cc
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Systems Integration Asia August - September 2012
Crestron and O2K in alliance to promote Integrated Building Solutions in India
(L-R) at the partnership press briefing, Ben Lim of Crestron Asia, Azharuddin and Prem Kumar of O2K, Kanny Leong and Murugan of Crestron Asia
INDIA: Crestron, a global major in audio-visual control system solutions, announced its strategic alliance with Bangalore-based O2K Technology Services to offer end-to-end Integrated Building Technology (IBT) solutions in India. The partnership will enable O2K Technology Services to provide Crestron IBT solutions aimed at intuitively managing, monitoring and scheduling every environmental and audio/video system from any touch screen, web browser or mobile device for peak performance and optimal energy savings. With a view to showcasing the efficacy of Crestron IBT solutions, O2K has set up a Smart Home in Bangalore. It was unveiled by Kanny Leong, Director of Crestron Asia recently. This Smart Home has been set up with an investment of Rs. three crore (approximately US$600,000), and O2K plans to invest a further Rs. 15 crore (approximately US$3 million) into this exciting initiative over the next 24 months. Kanny Leong said Crestron’s alliance with O2K is aimed at bringing the best technology available in the USA to India towards building intelligent dwelling and business places. “Besides offering endto-end solutions, we will offer regular
technical training and certification programmes for like minded system integrators and engineers across India.” O2K will primarily focus on home automation and green building segment, said Prem Kumar, the company’s managing director. That environmentalism has evolved from being a mere concept into an ideology and has spread its roots into every industry, fostering consciousness about the world we live in into everyone’s mind has become an imperative. He added. “Our partnership with Crestron will enable us to inculcate the same into the world of technology, and its stakeholders and users.” An arm of Office 2000 Solutions Pvt. Ltd., O2K Technology Services is a new venture focusing on home automation and green building segment. Office 2000 is a premier solution provider in the audio-visual system integration industry, and has made quite a credible name in over a decade of existence. In association with its partners from across the world, O2K has executed complex projects across India for virtually every industry and its clientele includes major MNC’s and who’s who of Corporate India. www.crestronasia.com
The Smart Home showcase featuring Crestron solutions
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Systems Integration Asia August - September 2012
Shidco receives FBT Award
Roberto Mataloni of FBT presenting the award to Moghadas Darab of Shidco
IRAN: Shidco, one of the leading audio visual solutions providers in Iran, and a distributor of Italian audio major FBT, recently received the FBT Award for ‘Outstanding Business Achievement’ at the opening of the company’s new showroom in Tehran. FBT’s export manager Roberto Mataloni presented the award to Shidco proprietor Moghadas Darab, as part of his visit to the Iranian capital. “Shidco has been
exclusively dealing with FBT for almost 10 years and our business relations are truly close and collaborative,” Mataloni said. “I have been very impressed while visiting many installation sites they have done with our products, from cultural centres to amphitheatres, to mosques, to sport centres, to municipalities and army theatres,” he said and added, “with a wide retail and installation network Shidco covers all the Iranian cities from large to small, and FBT is surely a key player in the region.” According to Shidco chief Moghadas Darab, they found a very important partner in FBT, not only as a supplier but also a supporter, with whom they have been developing good business by providing high quality sound products to consumers and professionals. While the economic scenario in Iran had not been very encouraging for business and expansion, Shidco has been able to maintain its edge due to the excellent support it is getting from its principals. “FBT products perform very well in lots of installations that we have completed
and our customers are very satisfied,” Darab said, adding, “we can surely affirm that FBT has a top position in the market as a brand and products that our customers can rely on.” Shidco opened a new showroom in Tehran. The new facility, which Shidco has described as its ‘main showroom,’ features sections for a number of the brands it represents, including lighting company DTS as well as products from Taiwanese microphone manufacturer JTS. Large sections of the showroom, however, were dedicated to FBT. According to the FBT executive, the showroom is a very good showcase for its business in the Iranian market. ‘Iran is an interesting and important market for us, so it is encouraging to see Shidco making such a prominent display of our technology,’ he added. www.shidco.com www.fbt.it
Prysm glows up Behbehani’s multi brand watch boutique KUWAIT: Digital display innovator Prysm broke a new ground when its Laser Phosphor Display (LPD) technology was recently selected by the exclusive watch retailer MYB Watches, part of the Behbehani Group to glow up its multi-brand showroom in Kuwait mall. Behbehani Group specified and installed a 6.7’ x 3.8’ LPD video wall, for its new boutique, which opened recently in the brand new Al Hamra Tower Mall in Kuwait, acclaimed as the world’s tallest sculpted tower and now the tallest building in Kuwait. The 6.7’ x 3.8’ Prysm wall is located within the 500sqm store, which is adorned with watches and jewellery from prestigious brands including Cartier, Breguet, Blancpain, Hublot, Roger Dubuis, Omega, Baume et Mercier and many others. Prysm worked with Behbehani Group, owner of MYB Watches to install the video wall, which is a flagship element of the new store. Shahzad Gidwani, General Manager – Trading Division at M.Y. Behbehani group explained, “we wanted the latest technology for this store and the Prysm videowall allows us to create a seamless display to showcase the latest watches and collections. The opening of Al Hamra & Firdous Cinema Land is a very
prestigious moment for Kuwait and MYB Watches is right at the heart of that.” The retail mall is 250,000 square feet spread over five-stories with 77 stores, an integrated 10-screen cinema complex and IMAX theatres, an eleven floor carpark, a health club and a food court. “We saw Prysm for the first time at InfoComm and what instantly stood out was the quality of the picture which is essential when representing such highend brands,” said Eric Rodricks, Sales Manager for the Projects Department of Behbehani Group. “The power consumption was also very desirable with the whole wall only using 360 watts of power,” he said, adding, “the display really captures attention and reflects the MYB watch brand and its premium image.” An invention and proprietary technology of Prysm, LPD is a large format display platform that can be organized in any size or shape to support a wide range of complete solutions for a variety of commercial markets. When compared to traditional technologies, LPD offers brilliant life-like and life-size displays which deliver truly immersive experiences, while offering the lowest
cost of ownership and meeting the highest standards of environmental impact. According to Tanvir Osama, Director of Sales in the Middle East and India for Prysm, LPD is an ideal platform for retail applications with its low power consumption, ultra wide viewing angle and minimal seam gap of just 0.25mm. The displays emit no heat which means that no additional cooling infrastructure is required. “As part of our commitment to the installation, we also provided training for Behbehani’s technicians who are now very familiar with the technology,” added Tanvir. www.prysm.com
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Systems Integration Asia August - September 2012
Saurabh Malhotra to lead Digital Projection India business this variety of demand. Saurabh has previously worked with Barco India as Director, Sales & Marketing, and has been responsible for maturing various business units in India over the 10 years he spent there. Saurabh has also held various management and sales positions in large Indian companies like HCL, Network Limited, DCM Data Products and NDTV. His 20Saurabh Malhotra (left) with Nick Cottis, DPI’s International plus years experience Sales & Marketing Director in digital projection, INDIA: Saurabh Malhotra, a renowned AV, IT, broadcast and OA industries name in electronics solutions business have already been beneficial with the in India, has been appointed by British acquisition of new key accounts that projection major Digital Projection have raised Digital Projection’s profile in International (DPI) as Managing Director India. of its India business. In this new role, Saurabh is tasked with developing the Based in New Delhi, Digital Projection company’s business in India, raising India is considered to be in a perfect Digital Projection’s profile and growing geographic location to drive growth. market share in this strategically “This is an exciting time to join the company and with our world class important market. range of projectors for both commercial According to the company, that India has and domestic use, we can increase our been seeing a strong surge in demand presence in the thriving Indian market,” for digital projectors in diverse segments said Saurabh. ranging from home cinema, corporate, educational establishments and the ever- Nick Cottiss, International Sale and growing commercial cinema market, Marketing Director, said “with an ever DPI’s range is perfectly placed to meet increasing demand for our projectors
in India, bringing someone of Saurabh’s caliber and experience onboard will help us serve our customers, both current and future, in the best possible manner ” DPI manufactures and distributes an extensive line of ultra high-performance 3-chip and single-chip DLP projection systems. These projectors are the reference standard for demanding applications such as large-venue, liveevent staging, fortune 5000, education, medical and scientific research, command and control, digital cinema, commercial entertainment, worship and elite home cinema. Founded in 1989, DPI has been instrumental in the development and application of DLP technology by Texas Instruments for projection systems. Having been credited with introducing the world’s first 3-chip DLP projector in 1997, DPI has since delivered expert system engineering and world-class customer services, thus maintaining its position as a digital imaging pioneer. DPI’s groundbreaking projection research and development has won the admiration of industry professionals around the world, earning the company many accolades, including two Emmy Awards for Outstanding Achievement in Engineering Development. DPI remains the first and only projector manufacturer to win the coveted award. www.digitalprojection.co.uk
AllwaveAV installs videowall at Equinox Realty INDIA: Mumbai-based AV solutions provider AllwaveAV recently installed a videowall at the headquarters of another Mumbai-based corporate major Equinox Realty, an Essar Group concern. After much deliberation on the type of display for the reception, followed by previews of the solution, Equinox Realty decided on a 3X3 grid with an effective size of an 165-inch video wall at the reception. The Samsung UD55A, as the panel is called, actually features a screen size of 55 inches, while the frame stood at approximately 30mm in thickness. The full HD native resolution of the liquid crystal display panel meant that it comes with 1,920 x 1,080 pixels, with 700 nits brightness - a definite asset for the mission-critical video wall applications it is designed for. Other specifications included a contrast ratio of 5,000:1 which is the same as all the others; HDMI; Display Port; content control through RS232C and RJ45 ports and
viewing angles of 178 degrees (horizontally and vertically). The displays feature ultrathin bezels of 5.5mm, making it easier to hang it in more locations than ever before. The bezels integrate into the overall design and feature a d v a n c e d c o o l i n g t e ch n o l o g i e s , designed for long hours of continuous use. The images and content can be relayed with multiple options and different screens can be used to either conjure
one big image, or have multiple smaller images. www.allwaveav.com
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Systems Integration Asia August - September 2012
Blessing Joseph takes over as Vega Technology India Country Manager echelon in his professional graph as well as Vega’s ranks making up a decisive dynamic. Having shaped and driven the AV business at AGC, Blessing had ushered in a new corporate entrepreneurism into the Indian AVSI industry. Before AGC, he was credited with founding the AV business at Siemens Communications, and managed the German enterprise’s video-conferencing business.
INDIA: Blessing E. Joseph, formerly National Head-AV & Multimedia Business at AGC Networks, has taken over as Country Manager-India for the Hong Kong-headquartered multinational AVSI major Vega Technology. In one of the most interesting developments in recent weeks, Blessing rose to the high
A Diploma holder in Computer Technology, Blessing took fancy to audio-visual and multimedia technology and subsequently mastered the art of the business and technical expertise too. Within the systems integration industry, he has been instrumental in some of the most ambitious projects for MNC majors like CitiBank NA, Freescale Semi conductor, GE, Flextronics, Sarnoff, ADA (Aeronautical Development Agency), Columbia Asia, Pricewaterhouse Coopers, Bank Of America, Fidelity, Morgan Stanley, Goldman Sachs,
besides Indian IT majors Government of India.
and
the
Blessing says his task is cut out in this new capacity. “I am tasked to ensure that Vega’s reach and approach to Indian MNCs and other Corporates is effective; that Vega’s expertise and excellence in business is understood and demonstrated to their appreciation; that our solutions, delivery and service mechanism are continually improvised, if not innovated, so that the customers always have the best from the company.” “All the while I’ve been making long jumps,” Blessing quips about himself. “Now, it’s something like a pole-vault.” However, reaching a high isn’t enough, he quickly adds, ensuring it stays and works for a good effect is important. “I’m working towards it.” (Read the exclusive interview Blessing, in a separate article)
with
www.vega-global.com
Crestron appoints EMEA Marketing manager EMEA: Crestron has appointed Simon Clarke to the position of Marketing Manager to the EMEA region. Covering all aspects of Crestron’s commercial and residential activity, Simon will be working closely with the in-house sales teams and accredited integrators on joint projects and developing new initiatives. For over thirty years Simon has been working on brand plans and high-level campaigns at domestic, European and EMEA level, including extensive sponsorship deals and subsequent branding and lead generation for Avaya across both the 2002 and 2006 FIFA World Cups. “Joining Crestron is a really exciting prospect for me, I’m fully aware of its prowess in the automation world and working with such a premium and prominent brand will be a privilege,” says Simon. “I believe the combination of my marketing experience and Crestron’s ambition for continued growth will be a winning partnership.” “When you look at the diversity of attendees at shows such as ISE and with last year’s inaugural InfoComm MEA, it is clear to see a thriving market scene across EMEA,” says Robin van Meeuwen, VP of Sales and Marketing at Crestron International. “As such, we
see the potential for significant growth and I’m looking forward to working with Simon to establish how we can capitalise on the potential we see in this area.” Simon joins Crestron having spent the last six years with Xerox Europe, where he joined as Channel Marketing Manager and rapidly rose to the position of European Marketing Manager. Simon has a successful track record of increasing brand recognition, revenue, leads and opportunities through the
development of high-impact integrated marketing programmes. With extensive experience liaising with regional and country sales teams to align end customer communication with sales goals, Crestron is confident that Simon will be able to traverse the regional offices across EMEA to bring to fruition a coordinated, consistent and cohesive marketing strategy. www.crestron.eu
True colors, for life Barco presents its expanded OverView family of rear-projection video walls, the most comprehensive portfolio on the market today. This impressive product range offers the most optimal visualization solution for any control room, not only in terms of image quality, but also in viewing comfort, ease of maintenance, and operator-friendliness.
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Systems Integration Asia June - July 2012
Techno Q turns in a key solution at Qatar University College of Education Institution realises its objectives of a primarily functional solution that accentuates the aesthetically pleasing ambience The College of Education in Qatar University - one of the only two teaching education institutions in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region to have won the International Recognition for Teacher Education (IRTE) from the USbased Center for Quality Assurance in International Education - is apparently worth the accolade in more ways than one. The sophisticated audio-visual systems integrated into the college academics and administration is just one such. By winning the internationally acclaimed professional recognition in teacher education, the College of Education in Qatar University, Doha, proved many points in both structural and textural excellence. Its role, therefore, as a hub for teaching excellence is further strengthened in line with international standards and the objectives of Qatar National Vision 2030. That the process to fulfil the six standards of IRTE involved a rigorous
3-year exercise of internal review and evaluation, interaction with Supreme Education Council (SEC) advisors, and on-site visits is one aspect. On the other hand, that the standards required creation of a high quality teaching environment, speaks of the technologysupported academic mechanism.
The integrator’s brief for the turnkey solution was very clear. The institution wanted a solution that is primarily functional even as it accentuates the aesthetically pleasing ambience. So no tampering with the built-in deco of the venue! Techno Q, having handled such challenges earlier, took it with aplomb.
When the University management mooted the issue of a solution provider who could cater to their precise requirement, the choice was more or less obvious - the locally-based Techno Q, who have already built a visible mass of credentials. Thus came in the Dohabased AV major.
“Qatar University has upgraded the facilities with an extensive use of stateof-the art audio visual and multimedia equipment and technology,” says Abdulla Alansari, Techno Q’s Executive Director. “That the institution is the first, largest, and the most prominent institution for higher education in Qatar, the requirement was to deliver a technology-enhanced learning experience,” he added.
The project originally involved full renovation of the venue, including providing civil works, and interior design which in turn comprised lighting, carpeting, furniture and decorative wooden wall veneers. A very important component of the ambitious audiovisual system integration was the multipurpose conference hall.
The 132-seat conference hall sports a unique architectural design that is characterized by an ambience of Italian wooden wall veneer furnishings, accentuated by typified grilled-windows, and matching themes on the floor
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carpeting and ceiling, besides the ‘intelligent’ lighting. That the aesthetics played a high note, the audio-visual system had to be woven into it. While that is one, the other specification was that the design had to create a fasttrack information-sharing environment for displaying media content and data. That’s what was meant by technologyenhanced learning. The scale of the work clearly required a huge mix and mesh of AV equipment. Conferencing major Danish Interpretation Systems (DIS) had a big deal with a provisioning for as many as 134 DM 6560 F delegate conference microphone systems, with a total of 135 CC 6010 chip cards; an aggregate of 135 DH 6023 headphones; 10 GM 6523 gooseneck mics; and five DM 4420P delegate units. Further, the DIS set-up also comprised a CU 4010 and a CU 6011 central Control Unit; one CM 4420P chairman unit; a CM 6560 F chairman conference microphone system; and two EC 4000-20 CDS extension cables. The massive set-up is meant for the audio part of the holistic video
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conferencing, interpretation and voting system. For meeting the remaining audio requirement, the integrator chose Audio-Technica solutions that comprised one ATW-3141 wireless handheld system, one ATW-3110/ AT829 that came with a 300 wireless beltpack transmitter system, and a U857QL gooseneck mic. The signal processing tasks were entrusted to Biamp Nexia CS DSP and Nexia TC programmed with Biamp’s proprietary acoustic echo cancellation algorithms (AEC) specifically developed for facilitating clear, unobtrusive and intelligible audio. The switching mechanism was tasked by one ISS 506 switcher; one DA4 RGBHV amplifier; and a DVI DA4 Plus distribution amplifier from Extron. At the centre of the triangular conference hall, aligning the facing wall is a huge video wall, raising up from the back of the podium to the ceiling. While the massive video wall is fixed in the ambiencematching wooden frame, which is fitted with two Polycom videoconferencing cameras, the whole set-up is flanked by two large interactive whiteboards on
either side. The speaker systems have been shared by Polk Audio while the electronics are done by Marantz and Quad. Crestron touch panels have been entrusted with the controlling tasks for the whole ambience while the lighting aspect featured Lutron. Other solution providers included Panasonic, Sony, NEC, Wolfvision, Viewsonic and Wacom. “Today, communication in learning environments must be concise and happen in real time, without delay,” explains Alansari. “The audio design weaved in provides the essential tools for this level of communication,” he elaborates. “That the project requirement called for a flexible solution which also needed to be robust with powerful tools for direct teaching, distance education, content sharing, presenting and ondemand project collaboration, the design had to be holistic and thus extensive.” The project took approximately four months to complete, with the specification realised apparently to perfection. www.technoq.com
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Barco solutions feature prominently at the DCA Imaging Research Centre Radiologists praise the Barco display’s multi-modality imaging capabilities Dr. Diwan Chand Aggarwal (DCA) Imaging Research Centre - the oldest and largest Radiology centre in India - does not boast just a grand history; it also boast a grand tradition of technology. With its very seeding happening in technology almost a century ago, the institution continues to play its reputation, albeit on a different ground. Visual solutions major Barco plays a vital role in the centre’s acclaim today.
philosophy, the hospital has been investing significantly in harnessing latest technology that is easy to use and to optimum benefit. It was one of the first clinics in New Delhi, India, to introduce cross-sectional imaging. Having established new benchmarks in the field of diagnostic imaging, the center has also obtained recognition from the National Board of Education for providing postgraduate training in radiodiagnosis (DNB).
The DCA Imaging Research Centre, since its inception in the mid-1920s, has always been a technology statement, outside its service motto towards people. Having come into existence at the earliest days of the birth of radiology as a decisive medical stream, the centre has developed a reputation for pioneering imaging practice committed to introducing latest technology in the field of radiology.
Journeying with time, and taking technology traits in its stride, the Centre equipped itself with advanced diagnostic equipment such as a 64-slice Cardiac CT, a whole body 1.5, a Tesla MRI and PET-CT as well as a number of mammography and digital radiography systems. The center also offers Digital Fluoroscopy digital OPG, Nuclear Medicine and Ultrasound services.
With patient centrality as its core value and a ‘right diagnosis, right treatment’
In line with its tradition, the DCA recently wanted to upgrade its existing fleet of
medical display systems, it explored the domain for a thorough evaluation to find the best solution. The exercise soon proved that Barco, and, in particular, the Coronis Fusion 6MP DL diagnostic display system from the visual solutions major offered the perfect solution to meet the centre’s demanding imaging needs. Getting into the act Barco installed the system (4 x Coronis Fusion 6MP DL) as per the specifications given by the institution. Though a small install from the integrator’s point of view, it has been of major benefit to DCA.
Enhanced Workflow DCA considers the Coronis Fusion 6MP DL unique in its class. The large diagnostic display system allows simultaneous reading of colon, grayscale and fused, static and moving images. Coronal views, for instance, can now be combined with smaller MIPs and volume rendered images on the same screen,
Systems Integration Asia June - July 2012
in order to facilitate faster reading and diagnostic decisions. Radiologists can quickly toggle between images from different modalities, without shifting between monitors or workstations. The integrated uniformity luminance technology (ULT), reduces non uniformities and makes sure the display is fully compliant with DICOM GSDF, across the entire screen surface. Supported by I-Guard – a tiny embedded photometer positioned at the front of the screen - this significantly increases diagnostic precision. The centre has been using Coronis Fusion 6MP DL diagnostic display systems for some time now. The radiologists praise the display’s multi-modality imaging capabilities. The displays ensure enhanced visual accuracy and the 30inch screen gives them the flexibility to read images side by side in many configurations, thus fostering user comfort. Says Dr. Bharat Agarwal, Director at the DCA Imaging Research Centre : “I have
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been using the Coronis Fusion 6MP DL for the last three years and I appreciate how it really enhances my workflow. It allows me to see CTs, MRs, ultrasound images and even PETCTs conveniently and comfortably on one screen. The screen dimensions make it easy to compare all these images at an optimum size and resolution.”
Quality across all displays In addition to the Coronis Fusion 6MP DL, DCA installed as many as ten MDRC-2120 displays from Barco as a backbone for CT/MRI reporting. “The displays provide us with a great platform to review CT and MRI scans, which make up for the major workload of our radiology department,” says Dr. Bharat Agarwal. He further adds, “the great advantage is that the image quality is maintained uniformly across all displays,. The contrast, brightness and a wider viewing angle are better than conventional computer monitors.” The MDRC also maintains DICOM compliance, which is vital for accurate diagnosis and review. In addition, Barco
also installed one Nio5MP diagnostic display system to augment the DCA’s imagery.
Quality care The Barco medical displays come, as standard, with MediCal QAWeb, a fully automated and centralized calibration and quality assurance software. MediCal QAWeb tracks, maintains and logs viewing performance, automates QA tasks, initiates display system calibration and establishes an accurate DICOM LookUp Table calibration. “This really makes our life trouble free. We don’t lose time making sure we get the optimal output from each and every display, it’s all taken care of for us,” the doctor continued. Each DCA center has started using Barco medical displays now, much to their satisfaction. Sums up Dr. Agarwal: “The Barco medical displays we purchased are top of the range. Consequently, they are not considered a cost but an investment to help us serve our patients in a much better way.” www.barco.com
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BIS new auditorium sports new design T2 Consulting delivers on school’s vision
Academic institutions creating own facilities for in-house academic and non-academic activities is nothing new. However, when the facility sports an extraordinary design supported by exhaustive specifications and setup with corporate trappings it means charting a new course.The newly-created auditorium at the Banglore International School (BIS) of the Brigade Group is probably one. SIA seeks to present a leaf out of it in the first of the two-part feature focusing on the AV set-up. When the Brigade Group - one of the premier, branded property developers in Bengaluru - decided to have a multipurpose venue (which essentially was an auditorium-cum-arts complex) at its prestigious secondary school, the BIS, it had its vision pretty clear. The facility had to be best in line, as per international standards - in both structure and texture. In simple terms, it meant both technology and design, and expanded, it meant architecture, acoustics, and audio-visual design blending to present an aesthetic and appealing ambience. The MLR Convention Centre, as the venue was named, features an 850seat auditorium; a 500-seat banquet
hall; a banquet pre-function area and an auditorium pre-function space. In addition, music classrooms and practice rooms, and other arts classrooms were to be treated with acoustics. That the shell had already been made, and the overall shape almost evolved, it required a truly world-class expertise to realise the intent. Accordingly, the management roped in - for a large part of the initiative - what it considered as among the best in town. Thus came in the Bangalore-headquartered technical design consulting major T2 Consulting. Understandably, T2 had a big multitasking job. For, the job involved: *Acoustic design for the complete project, including vibration, and environmental noise management *Architectural lighting for the auditorium, pre-function and banquet areas *Stage systems design, including drapery, lighting and dimming, scenery bars, drapery winch bars etc. *Audio-visual design with HD video system
The AV set-up That the BIS management wanted the auditorium to be a multi-purpose facility,
it had to weave in a system that goes beyond the conventional audio-video set-up and facilitate stage performances with mixing as well as film (moviewatching) ambience. BIS experience with similar facilities they did previously having been painful in terms of speech intelligibility, they were particular this time- which was why there is so much emphasis on the acoustics part, explains Kelvin Ashby-King, Principal Consultant of T2 Consulting. Moreover, “we had a limited budget for the AV system, and the requirement was to provide equipment for school requirements and basic equipment for venue hirers,” he details a specification of the brief, “this had to ensure that we had adequate infrastructure to support hire-in equipment brought in by venue users. The same applied to the stage systems too.” That the design of the auditorium with a balcony gave rise to certain issues of audio and video (in terms of projection) and the desire of the architect not to mount the speakers on the walls further exacerbated the challenges. There was a deviance of ± 2dB of the required 103dB sound for a fully occupied space. So, it
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did come with its own set of challengesboth structural and textural. “We needed a speaker that could throw sound with the given SPL from the front to the rear of the auditorium which is over 25m. A traditional auditorium speaker could not fit this requirement and we, thus, selected a steerable column array speaker to ensure that we had even coverage at the right SPL level at each seat,” explains Kelvin. According to him, this system, with a series of 8 or 16 smaller narrow beam high power drivers, can be electronically steered to provide the sound at the required place with required SPL. “We provided reinforcement speakers along the front of the stage to cover the first two rows of seats and the same in the ceiling as hidden in the slots for the upper balcony.” Kelvin elaborates further “we developed a detail with the architect for concealing in the detail of the roof finish under the balcony and finally we located three dual 18-inch high output sub-woofers on specially designed containment chambers under the stage.” Accordingly, a full digital audio system with proper amplification, has been installed - a normal patch panel system meant for the scholastic environment was rendered flexible to meet the higher requirements from the hire-in users from outside. The system therefore comprised a pair of ICL-R power-steerable line array speakers of 800watt each that
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were held together by ICL-F mounting kit; three pairs of TRX62H full range ceiling speakers of 200watt @ 2ohm power that were held together by three pairs of UBRKT/81B U-brackets; a pair of ICL-215FR 1700 watt powered subs; and two pairs of CFX-121M powered stage monitors of 500 watt each- all from Renkuz Heinz. It was further supplemented by a set-up kit from RH to support the adapter and speaker systems. The tasks of capturing the sound from the speakers and performers on the stage were accordingly assigned to microphones from Sennheiser which comprised 10 e-835-S dynamic wired microphones cardioid pattern; three ew-345-GW UHF wireless handheld microphones (with 30mw power output); and three ew-345-GW UHF wireless headset microphones (with 30mw power output). Further, an MZH 3042 15.7-inch gooseneck microphone from Sennheiser filled the podium requirement. A pair each of A 2003 UHF directional antennae, ASA1 antennae splitters, AB3 antennae boosters, and an NT1 power supply system - all from Sennheiser complemented the set-up. While three CL-1600 dual channel power amplifiers of 350 watt at 8ohm power from Dynacord handled the power amplification requirement, the digital mixing tasks were assigned through Biamp DSP systems that
comprised one Audio flex-CM DSP chasis unit; seven IP-2 dual channel mic/line input cards; five OP2-e dual channel mic/line output cards; one AudioExpo output expander for eight analogue outputs; and one Audio Expi input expander for eight analogue inputs at mic/line levels. An NYS-SPP-L1 24-bay audio patch panel from Neutrik was installed for normalised / half-normalised audio. All this meant that while audio mixing can be done from the control room with normal wired outlets on stage, the live sound mixing tasks are addressed through the 24-way snake connecting the stage; control room and the mixing position in the centre of the auditorium. Besides a full fold-back audio system for live performance and presentation feedback, a CD Playback and recording is also provided as is full audio streaming interfaces provided with high speed broadband links. BGM music was provided in the lobby and pre-function area. The auditorium audio mix can also be routed to these areas when they are used as an overflow area.The audio system also features two MS101III Yamaha powered monitor speakers to augment the sound reproduction inside the auditorium. As an additional feature, an audio talk back system has also been installed
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of control panels from Crestron - at the centre of the system is a pair of 10.4-inch TPS-4000 wired tilt touch panels, that is complemented by a Pro-2 Integrated Control Processor for interfacing numerous devices, including projectors, plasma displays, switchers, DVD players, and screens etc. In addition, there is a pair of C2Com-3 three-port cards for Y-bus expansion, one C2ENET-1 single-port Ethernet Card, a C2N HBlock Network Distribution Block, and three IRP2 infrared (IIP) emitter probes contributing to the control mechanism. All the audio and video has been provided on wall plates and in deep floor boxes on the stage.
Control room
at the BIS. The system coming from Anchor Audio comprised one PS2000 two-channel power console; one B3-2000 three-station branch box for expansion; and seven each of BP-2000 two-channel belt pack and H-2000 dual sided headphone for the belt pack.
The video system, besides being video conference ready, was provided with routing and high speed broadband for video streaming. Video fold back is provided for the speaker so that he/she can view the content on the screen even as (s)he is performing.
The complete audio system had proof of concept carried out in EASE and this was also integrated with the acoustic performance factors also done in EASE to ensure overall performance came as per the specifications.
Computer and other video signals, including HDMI inputs, were provided on the stage and in the auditorium for full connectivity and full matrix switching which comprised one each of 60-63121 VGA Matrix switcher with audio; 60-554-22 SV matrix switcher with audio and RS 232 control; 60-55421 CV matrix switcher with audio and RS232 control; and 60-736-02 scaler with four input video and RGB signals - all coming from Extron.
Video Video projection solution came in with two screens being provided at the midpoint and rear of the stage– allowing the mid stage tabs (curtains) to be closed for set-up behind. A high performance/ high lumen output (18000) DLP projector (with remote zoom control) was assigned to be mounted on the front of the balcony with a view to avoiding the ceiling lift with a large drop. According to the consultant-designer, it was specified in such a way that one projector could serve both screens. The screen component comprised two 114219 Da-lite motorized matt white screens measuring 270-inch diagonal with 16:9 aspect ratio while the projection was specified to be a Wx10K-M WXGA projector from Christie. A Sony BRCZ700 HD video camera was also installed on the side wall to capture the proceedings of programmes like video-conferencing or live performances. Video captured inside the auditorium can be routed to the digital signage displays - one 32-inch and one 19-inch Samsung (LA328460 and LA198360) LCD panels - in the lobby and reception areas for overflow requirements and late entry visitors.
Control Room
Further, six each of Extron MTP T 15HD A AAP extenders to transmit/ amplify high resolution video, and MTP RL 15HD A SEQ mini twisted pair receivers to accept VGA video inputs have been roped in handle the video transmission component.
The AV system integration job was contracted to Bangalore-based integrator Sigma-Byte AV Solutions Pvt. Ltd. Says Prakash Rao, Director of SigmaByte: “That the technical design is so meticulously done with all the required tests for suitable product systems, we did not have any major challenge as such, except seeing through the install as per the specifications.” According to him, one challenge though was in relation to installing the large sized screen on the stage. “We achieved that through a chain-pulley mechanism to get it to the right angle and height.” The AV install at the BIS features probably one of the best technical designs in town, if not elsewhere, says the integrator. “For, it addresses the acoustics, lighting, and AV which is moderate in terms of costs, but extremely user-friendly in operations.” (In the next issue of SIA, we present the second part of the BIS install with acoustic and architectural lighting expertise that made it so special) www.t2consulting.co.in www.sigma-byteav.com
A Soundcraft LX7ii 32-channel audio mixing console was roped in for efficiently mixing the audio depending upon the requirement. In addition, an ID 370 Smart 17-inch colour interactive tablet, and a Gyration GP3200-001 wireless RF keyboard, along with a 100-feet range mouse have also been installed to augment the system. In addition, the Control Room also features a DVD/VCD playback for later addition of BLU ray and Video servers. One can also conduct DVD recording here.
Control Systems The control mechanism for the auditorium has been assigned to a batch
AV Rack in the control room
Systems Integration Asia June - July 2012
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Genesis’ Innovation of ICT at Microsoft Bengaluru First of its kind IMS platform “The IMS is a new mode of interaction between individuals or groups,” says D V Prakash, Country Manager of Mindstec, the distributors of VTRON systems in India. “In today’s fast changing business environment, this plays an effective tool to channelise user experience while dealing with target groups.”
The Interactive Multicube System (IMS) from VTRON
The Microsoft office at Manyata Tech Park in Bengaluru is not only the latest establishment of the software giant in the country’s Silicon Capital but also as sophisticated as the IT major. With a view to handling the enterprise’s increasing business demands of focused client briefing, product demonstrations, training, and special interactive sessions, the management of the facility decided to create a platform that could effectively execute all such functionalities. After due diligence, the prestigious task was entrusted to Bengaluru-based AVSI major Genesis IT Innovations Ltd. “It was not only prestigious, but also challenging,” says a Genesis top exec who oversaw the install. “For, the very nature of the install, and the local parameters made it all the more interesting.” On the face of it, it looks fairly simple, and not as challenging as it really would have been until one gets to the ingenuity that was weaved into the install. At the heart of the install is an innovative, long-life and interactive presentation device – the Interactive Multicube System (IMS) from VTRON - where sophisticated visualization capabilities of video wall and the functionality of Interactive Digital Business (IDB) system integrated into the first of its kind hyper-large interactive communication platform. Using the video wall technologies, making it available for durable operation time on 24/7 basis, highly stable and reliable, the end-user could choose from up to two video cubes combining to an extra-large display. Simplifying further, it is a combination of three LCDs bound together by means
of a 3-channel LAN-based controller. This enables display of multiple computer images through the network. One can also have the mouse control over the network image. The controller crates the full virtual screen over the 1 x 3 LCD wall where the content is copied to the controller and the user can start using it directly from the controller. The user will also have the option of displaying direct PC inputs using the matrix switcher. An interesting feature of the system here is that it is dual-touch enabled, and the flexibility to move the content from one screen to the other by just drag and drop. Moreover, it allows non-digital objects to be used as input devices - meaning that the source of information does not necessarily have to be digital in form. This is because, the technology does not rely on restrictive properties, such as the capacitance, electrical resistance, or temperature of the tool used, explains the Genesis exec. According to him, there are three main components that make up the interfacing: direct interaction, multitouch contact, multi-user experience, and object recognition. Direct interaction facilitates managing of digital information with hand gestures and touch instead of mouse and keyboard. Multi-touch contact enables users to manage digital data with more than one figure. If the user dips five fingers in five different colours on the screen paint palette and draws five lines with five fingers, the viewers will get to see five lines with five colours. The Multi-user experience component enables more than one user to simultaneously interact with the system to communicate with one another through various forms.
While the install centres around the IMS and IDB, the audio tasks are handled by a pair of Electro-Voice speakers that are placed above the 1x3 LCD panels whereas a pair of JBL speakers flank the left and right of the Interactive Multicube System. There is also a AKG podiummounted microphone as well as small microphones hanging from the ceiling in the form of slender wires in front of the IMS to handle speech reinforcement. “We wanted to break the convention of making the speakers/presenters wear lapel mics while interacting with the participants here,” explains the Genesis exec. “The hanging wires holding the mics does the speech capture while playing some architectural appeal too.” The podiums on either side are equipped with laptop compatibility to provide the interactive flexibility to the presenters. The AV Rack hosting the switching gear and speech amplification is provided behind the central video wall. “It’s a simple, but very innovative, and first of its kind install in the State, if not the country,” says Prakash. “That the overall client experience has been good, we would be enthused to take the concept to newer level as well.” www.gitil.com www.mindstec.com
VTRON LCD panels
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Pursuing excellence with
passion
People moving from one place to another in professional terms is nothing new as enterprises are known to live with this mechanism for long, more so in the AV & SI industry. However, a few movements will create a big impact and often chart new dynamics in the ‘domain’ of their development. One such development is that of Blessing E. Joseph, Country Manager at Vega Technology India. The high-profile echelon comes with an evenly matching task for the young professional. SIA talks to Blessing to know what exactly that is.
SIA: Congratulations on the new embarkment. What made you make this decisive move? Blessing: Well, I will agree to what the industry says on me on this move: my passion for excellence in simple terms. Expanded, it’s my passion to scale high in professional expertise, value addition to the market, to enterprises harnessing technology, and to the manufacturers developing technology. I know Vega for long and I was sure that I shared Vega’s vision in its pursuit for excellence on professional turf. It’s like matching of minds and, of course, honestly, opportunities.
SIA: What does this ‘hot seat’ bring with it- in terms of tasks, responsibilities, challenges and opportunities? Blessing: Obviously, it’s going to be a challenging as well as exciting proposition. While tasks and responsibilities are more or less same in that they mean not only building business but also building the brand. The stakes are obviously high, and this is where they get connected- the challenges and opportunities. That Vega has a very ambitious growth plan in India, my initial task is to pursue it aggressively. Indian AV is right now one of the most
happening domains in the region, little affected by the tumults in other markets. It is not only a market with vast potential but with typical characteristics- which is why I say challenging and exciting. That I have long been doing multi-tasking, the ‘hot seat’ you said presents an exciting opportunity for me.
SIA: What is your biggest priority? How do you intend to execute the same? Blessing: Like I said just now, it’s multitasking. Ensuring Vega’s reach and approach to Indian MNCs and other corporates is effective; its expertise and
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excellence in business is understood and demonstrated to their appreciation; its solutions, delivery and service mechanism are continually improvised, if not innovated so that the customers always have the best from the company. Our plans on seeding skill sets and competence required for this execution are in action already. So, I must say I’m already in the midst of it.
SIA: What do you think is your biggest challenge? How do you intend to address it? Blessing: While I do not see any big challenge as such, the unpredictability of the industry, which is common for all can be of concern. While the perceived economic challenges may continue to push down the corporates’ spending on AV, they will ask for smart technologies and intelligent designs to reduce costs even as they seek to leverage the best solution available towards increased efficiencies. That’s the challenge. Having said that, two pointers are big energizers for us. We are seeing some strong spending this year, and there is a good visibility through 2013; on the other hand, Vega too has been investing heavily on developing and providing intelligent solutions. These two energizers should take us towards realizing our objective.
SIA: Vega’s mission is pretty ambitious with many grand objectives. To what extent you think it met its said objectives, in the country? Blessing: While I would want to say it did, to a large extent, I would also add that it initiated aggressive measures towards meeting them fully. One of the important measures was the ‘Vega Global’ programme which aimed at expanding the operational capabilities across the global markets. The programme saw employing over 350 skilled personnel, and offices in as many as 18 cities and 11 countries. Further, the plan envisages setting up of offices in the Americas and Europe, besides the Middle East seeking horizontal expansion. This is both the means and mission itself.
SIA: Vega has been operating in India for a few years now, and across many segments too. Which segment has been most promising, and which most challenging? Why? Blessing: I must say hospitality as the most exciting segment currently. While the market has already seen some large, impressive projects shaping up, it is estimated that the next three years would see an addition of as many as 50,000 hospitality spaces, which is phenomenal. That it is imperative for all these projects to invest on guestroom management solutions for comforting their guests in eased out sophistication, it’s a huge take for any one. The financial segment is also running close with very impressive projects shaping up. On the other hand, while the government business segment has been stable, if not slow, it is the education and manufacturing segment that is yet to harness the latest technologies. Reasons can be many for this.
SIA: How much share does Vega India account for in Vega Global’s revenues ? Blessing: That most MNC projects that Vega India is handling are considered Vega’s global projects, Indian arm’s contribution is being rated as five per cent. However, in reality terms, I would say, it is at least double that figure, if not more. Having said that, we see bright prospects for making it 20 per cent by 2014. You may want to say that’s part of our objectives and tasks!
SIA: What is the most impacting technology that you think Vega brought to Indian industry? How has it impacted the industry? Blessing: Today it’s not what technology we use but how we use it that matters. Sophistication is meant to simplify the systems. Vega has custom designed and implemented diverse solutions on its Central Control Architecture with numerous business functionalities which differ from customer to customer. We have seen a huge acceptance from our customers on this simplicity. Many customers today ask us “will I be able to use my conference/AV room like how I use my PC with different collaborations, applications?” Yes, Vega’s intelligent Central Controlled Architecture solutions make this possible. That’s a big impact in itself.
INDIA & ME INTERVIEW
SIA: What technology you think is driving the industry today in the country? Blessing: There is a huge hype around the convergence of AV and IT, and it’s rightly so, it would continue for a few more months, if not years. While there may be some subsidiary domains arising out of it like the Cloud. However, I strongly feel video mobility and video collaboration solutions are driving the industry today.
SIA: How do you look at the Indian AVSI today? What are its strengths and weaknesses? Blessing: AV industry here is still largely SI-driven, unlike most other geographies. We see less than 25 per cent projects or design ideations are consultant-driven, and the majority goes to SIs, or their franchisees. Most MNC customers are known to prefer SIs on a turnkey basis and this gives an edge to AVSI companies. However, the big irony is that despite being in an advantageous position, SIs continue to lower their bids to compete and win projects which is counterproductive. We also see the skill sets promised to the clients in the beginning getting diluted as the project proceeds further leading to lead time extensions and client disappointments.
SIA: In your new capacity, how would you contribute to the industry? Blessing: This is not new to me. As I have been earlier, I continue to work with OEMs and non-profit AV associations to accentuate best practices and deliver the best of the benchmarks.
SIA: Is there any particular roadmap, targets or timelines? Blessing: Our road map is to expand our operational capabilities across the global markets with a fundamental ‘customer-first’ approach. One of our important objectives is to provide our customers with a distinctive unified video collaboration experience with managed services globally - may it be mobility, room-based or large scale video communication. Customers who understand the convergence of cheap and open architectures with closed and proprietary approaches will be best poised to navigate this sea of change in video communications and collaboration. www.vega-global.com
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Applying Technology
Creatively Sometimes, the name says it all, they say. Spacematrix may be one such expression. For, the name appears to symbolise not just what it does, but also how it does it. Being in the realm of technology design for architectural spaces, what matters for the space owner/operator is not what systems they have but how the systems are designed and used. SIA caught up with Neil Langford, Head-Multimedia and Technology at Spacematrix to capture his takes on Indian AVSI industry, considered the big hub of activity in Asia.
SIA: How do you look at the Indian AVSI industry as it appears today? Neil: India has a dynamic and growing AVSI segment, with access to the full gamut of technologies and tools. However, the growth of the industry is still frustrated by poor customer service outcomesin the main, integrators and service companies are still overcommitting and under-delivering. There is a lack of investment in business tools, processes and people. As a result, foreign integration firms are starting up here, delivering the quality that international corporations require. The biggest and best AVSI firms overseas are driven by those with a passion for AV and a talent for SI. In India, those passions and talents are often substituted with marketing techniques and IT project delivery practices - and these are inappropriate in our industry. There are, of course, exceptions. There are some well-run quality businesses with a strong commitment to the industry, but they are in the minority.
SIA: What technologies are driving the industry today? Neil: The rapid merger of AVSI and IT is driving growth and opportunity. The Internet Protocol is making possible new control architectures, and providing a delivery mechanism for information. Electronic Signage and wayfinding are growth areas for us that are completely dependent on the Net. Less obvious technologies are about to make an impact - HDbaseT is going to blossom in the display segment, hopefully providing an open standard for interoperability among manufacturers. It will be interesting to see which vendors keep up to the open standard! The ratification and promotion of AVB should also kick start another generation of systems development.
SIA: In the backdrop of such an exciting setting, what challenges do you see as facing the industry? Neil: The Indian markets are well aware of what is possible, and also of the available technologies. However, the expertise to apply it successfully is often not available, or in many cases, it is beyond the budget expectations of Indian clients. Neil Langford, Head-Multimedia & Technology, Spacematrix
On other hand, standards are not very well applied here, and installation and commissioning teams generally work to quite low quality levels (going by world
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standards), often with inadequate supervision and inadequate tools and resources. This doesn’t lead to high quality outcomes. I believe there is a real problem in the way many service providers approach the work- from site preparation and pre-cabling to final commissioning; many of the team members are under qualified and not adequately supervised. Integration companies are often losing valuable staff to competitors who offer high salary increases, and people move around the industry chasing the dollar. The industry is feeding off itself, instead of fostering new talent. Another major challenge- I don’t see widespread investment in training, tools and infrastructure - nor can I see career paths for those bright people who come in as technicians and have the skills and talent to rise to supervisor / manager level. Too often, those positions are occupied and ‘fenced off’ for those with college degrees. Yet, the educated engineers often lack the real world hands-on experience needed to solve problems for customers. Our industry, here, needs to recognise and promote talent ‘wherever’ it is found. Finally, this industry still prone to misinterpret its mission. Delivering a projector on the ceiling, and a rack full of black boxes is not what we’re about. Our clients do not really want all those black boxes - but they’ll buy them if it guarantees successful meetings or effective communications. That’s what we need to deliver!
SIA: Has the emergence of MNC establishments been a contributing factor to the growth of AVSI industry in the region? Neil: Ironically, foreign multinationals have spiked the demand for high quality
INDIA & ME CONSULTANT’S SAY
presentation and communication facilities. Regrettably, when I deal with the facility managers and architects who represent them, I find expectations very low. Many designers will avoid engaging with AV and multimedia teams because it’s just too hard, and the results often disappointing.
SIA: India’s prowess in ITES is a success story, why is it not so with AVSI, which is more or less related? Neil: I don’t see a corollary here! ITES is predominantly a human service enabled by IT systems. Once the people are trained adequately, they process calls and queries. They are not (generally) developing solutions to customer problems. Most workers in ITES facilities function within a fixed decision and response framework, guided by strict rules that drive their day-to-day activity. In AVSI industry, we need people who can identify an existing piece of technology and apply it creatively to solve customer problems. That’s a different skill set which is obviously why the story is different with AVSI.
SIA: Would you be able to quantify the worth of Indian AVSI industry ? Neil: I’m afraid I don’t have a feel for that, but it is massive; and it is growing.
SIA: How does AVSI equipment manufacturers having or not having local presence impact the industry? Neil: When I look at the market, I do see quite good representation on the ground by the larger manufacturers. As expected, the smaller players work through agents and dealers. Manufacturers will only place direct investment here when they can see appropriate returns available. Noticeably, this isn’t given right now. It’s
true that they do help grow the industry grow, but look at what they’re doing with training and skills development. However, whilst India is a huge opportunity which is also a huge problem at the same time! So many different States with individual regulations and taxation regimes.
SIA: How has Spacematrix contributed to the cause of the industry in the region? What specific initiatives? Neil: When I started this initiative, the challenge was to drive AV facility development as a part of the project delivery process. We’ve setup design centres in both Singapore and Bangalore, and after two years, we completed projects worth more than 18 million USD. Obviously, it was a very fast ramp up. I think we’ve shown that clients do want quality facilities and are prepared to pay for them. Working from within the architecture and workplace design teams has given us a unique opportunity to deliver from a different baseline. Our ongoing relationships with key clients such as Rolls Royce, Symantec and Axis Bank are evidence of this.
SIA: What is the way forward for the industry? Neil: Back in the days of slide projection and 16mm film, before video and LCD displays, I was lucky enough to work for a visionary manager in the motion picture and audiovisual team at Kodak. David Wells was national marketing manager, and he stressed one thing that remains true to this day : “It’s not the equipment you use that matters ...... it’s how you use the equipment!” We need to creatively apply technology to solve client problems. End of story - if we do that we will prosper. www.spacematrix.com
ABOUT INDIA & ME CONSULTANT’S SAY Like every industry out there, the audio-visual and systems integration industry has its own stakeholdersmanufacturers(along with their distribution partners); consultants; integrators; and the end users. However, a critical connecting link between the manufacturers - the prime movers - and their user communities - integrators and end users - are the consultants. They play a two-way channel facilitating the industry to know what the market wants, and letting the market know
what is the latest technology and solutions to benefit from. SIA being so thoroughly focused on the cause of the industry in its chosen continental geography of Asia, undertakes a Special Initiative to present the dynamics of the industry through its ‘Consultant’ perspective. While the industry has been growing by leaps and bounds in most parts of the continent, its stake in the India and Middle East markets have been
particularly promising. Despite having predicaments of their own, independent kind, these two markets have been churning out impressive AV projects with some ‘out of the box’ concepts and next-generation phenomena. We therefore dedicate this initiative to the consultants from India & ME region. We begin the series with an exclusive tete-e-tete with Neil Langford.
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PALME / INSTALL Thailand gears up to offer solutions to vertical markets The key twist to the PALME/INSTALL Thailand exhibition is that it is NOT a stand alone exhibition. The value proposition to the exhibitors is that the exhibition though has its own Hall is part of a number of vertical exhibitions, being held at the same time, date and venue, thereby providing an opportunistic platform to reach out to end-user markets and clients directly. “The PALME brand together with its predecessor PALA has been serving the Asian lighting sound and visual industries for over 20 years. In the early days the exhibition was the platform for manufacturers to secure distributors. As the industry has developed and stabilised we now enter a new phase. A new phase of reaching out to the end-user markets. The end-user market scope is very large as sound lighting and visual solutions permeate across a range of vertical markets. This year the PALME/INSTALL exhibition in Thailand sits together with a range of growing vertical markets in Thailand. In essence we are bringing the vertical market to the doorsteps of our exhibitors. This is the unique proposition that we are bringing to this event.” says Anna Cheong, Exhibition Director, IIR Exhibitions Pte Ltd.
EXHIBITION PREVIEW
Date: 19 -21 September 2012 (Wed – Fri) Venue: IMPACT Exhibition & Convention Centre Bangkok Thailand Exhibition Hours: 10am to 7pm
The vertical market exhibitions are: 1. The Building Maintenance & Asset Management Expo Asia 2012 which is targeted at bringing in facility management and property management personnel as well as facility security and fire safety personnel. 2. Thailand International Construction Machinery, Equipment and technology Exhibition that brings in visitor profiles such as contractors, investors, developers/builders, engineering firms and consultants, trade associations, government officials and even educational institutions. 3. Green Building and Retrofits Expo Asia 2012 targeted at Landlords, Developers, Architects, Contractors, Consulting/M&E Engineers, Government Minsitires, Perperty Managers, Facility Managers and more. 4. World Spa & Well-being Convention 2012 targeted at Travel Agents, Spa Consumers Salons, Hotel Operators, Spa Operators, Spa Consultants, Spa Suppliers, OEM’s, Spa Directors, Spa Managers, Spa Therapists, Developers, Investors and Hotel owners.
4. Landscape Thailand 2012 targeted at Landscape Architect and Designers, Building Architect and Designers, Consultants, Property Developers, Leisure Centres & Water Parks, Hotels, Golf Course Owners, Urban Area Authority amongst others. 5. Pool&Spa Exhibition Asia again targeting Hotels and Holiday complexes, Spa & Health clubs, Wellness Centres/ Clinics and more. Confirmed exhibitors are enthusiastic and understand the unique opportunity that the exhibition brings to them. Visitors to the exhibition will be able to see a showcase of architectural lighting solutions, PA systems, Background music systems, Video and Security solutions, Boardroom solutions, Presentation solutions and digital signage solutions targeted at the vertical markets. “This is really a unique opportunity for our industry to meet with these key vertical markets. In addition the vertical market exhibitions are fully supported by all the key Trade Associations and Government Associations,” concludes Anna.
Exhibitors and Brands Participating as of end July 2012 Acoustic & Lighting Allen & Heath AM International Analog Way Antari Ashly Audio Visual Services Co. Ltd (Thailand) Australian Monitor Aviom Avolites B&C Speakers Barix Big Dipper Bosch Bosch (Thailand) Brahler ICS CAE Group Asia Camco Chainmaster
Charteroak Chinavut Marketing Clay Paky Comemar Commerme (Thailand) Cool Components Coolux Crane Hardware DAS AudioAsia DB Mark Deco 2000 Denlank Digico EAW Equipson Extron Electronics Asia FBT Electronica SpA Flatline Acoustics
Fujian Star-Net E-Video Information System Co., Ltd Fuzion Far East Genelec Grandplan Green Hippo Guangzhou DF cable Home Hifi (Thailand) ICE LED JTS Just Add Power Kelsey KRAMER Electronics Asia Pacific Kvant Lab Gruppen Laserworld (Switzerland) AG Lemo Asia Pte Ltd
Lumen Radio Mackie Mahajak MDG Fog Generators Metageek Milos Structural Systems Mission T Mojoworx Asia Nanjing Special Lamps Natthapong Sales & Service Co. Ltd (Thailand) Nexo One Systems P Audio Panasonic Percon Export S.L.U. Phonic
Pioneer Platinum Toos Powersoft PR Lighting Pro Control Quad Professional Quest Engineering Radiant Opto-Elec Technology Rane Red Eye RTI SAE SAE CO., LTD SAE Intitute Bangkok Shenzen CreateLED Electronics Co Ltd SMIT Special Sound Audio Dept
SR Production Symetrix Total Equipment Total Solution TSL Tvone Vantage Point Vari*lite Verlinde S.A Vision Vity WC&M Xtreme Plus Co. Ltd (Thailand) Zomax Pro Audio Factory
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MIDDLE EAST & AFRICA
Transform your business with Pro-AV Technologies
2012
14-18 October, 2012 Dubai International Convention and Exhibition Centre
PRO-AV SOLUTIONS PROACTIVE STRATEGIES
Change The Way The World Sees You With Revolutionary Pro-AV Technologies
InfoComm MEA 2012: Where AV meets IT With video and multimedia gaining traction over pure text and sound in the world of communications, it is not surprising that AV systems have become an important corporate resource. Further, advances in technology have resulted in media content increasingly being delivered over the network. This makes it imperative for AV and IT professionals to work together to offer network-centric solutions that integrate AV and IT, and create effective work environments for businesses in general. InfoComm MEA 2012 presents such an opportunity for IT and AV professionals, as well as business users from various industries, to learn and familiarise themselves with integrated information communications solutions and the implications of AV-IT convergence for their businesses. Strategically co-located with GITEX TECHNOLOGY WEEK in Dubai, one of the most
widely attended events in the world, InfoComm MEA lends greater focus to the need for interconnectivity in business and the trend towards AV-IT convergence. Sectors such as conventions, education and network operations, are big users of combined AV-IT technologies. Companies such as Arrive Ltd, Crestron, Extron, Jupiter Systems, Mindstec Distribution, Mitsubishi Electric, Sharp, Sony and VENUETECH already offer innovative connectivity solutions.These companies, and more, will be exhibiting their latest products at the forthcoming InfoComm MEA. In its second presentation from 14 to 18 October, InfoComm MEA will feature over 80 companies from more than 20 countries. The event in 2011 drew 12,131 visitors from diverse business sectors.
Integrated AV solutions to transform businesses Besides Corporate and Government sectors like Defence, Transportation, Healthcare, and Education, CIOs, IT managers, systems integrators and engineers from other sectors including Hospitality, Retail, Entertainment, will be able to source solutions from the myriad systems and products on display at InfoComm MEA 2012. These range from teleconferencing, digital signage and display systems, e.g. screens and videowalls, conference and sound systems, projectors, interactive whiteboards, visualisers and video cameras, to AV systems management, control and monitoring solutions. Running alongside the trade exhibition is a comprehensive Summit programme, where distinguished industry specialists e.g. Bob Snyder, Editor-in-Chief of rAVe Europe and Edgard A. Naim, CTS-D, Education and Training Manager – EMEA from Extron Europe, will share their insights and experiences on
technology developments, market trends and applications. Attendance at both the Exhibition and Summit is free, but preregistration is advised. Businesses looking to transform their operations and take their business to the next level will thus beneďŹ t from the learning opportunities and connections available at InfoComm MEA 2012. A brief summary of the Summit programme is provided on the facing page, together with exhibit highlights. For details on schedules and how to register, please visit www.infocomm-mea.com.
Systems Integration Asia August - September 2012
EXHIBITION PREVIEW
InfoComm MEA Summit The Summit comprises several segments:
NEW!!
• INFOCOMM UNIVERSITY SEMINARS • IMCCA UNIFIED COLLABORATION SESSION These aim to enhance the skills and knowledge of technical personnel currently engaged in AV or IT. Seminar topics will include: - AV/IT in 2015 - Current and upcoming standards - Projection mapping - Acoustics and sound system design - Distributed audio - Digital video - Streaming technologies and applications • INDUSTRY CONFERENCES These are targeted at institutional end-users in specific industries, to expose them to new possibilities through AV and demonstrate how they can make AV work for them. Conferences will be organised for the following industries: - Information Technology (IT), with topics covering Networked AV, such as AV over IT infrastructure, relevant technical standards, streaming AV, project management, the future of networked AV, and more, to assist IT professionals in working with AV or AV professionals. - Education, which will explore AV design for education, modern classroom technologies, applicable standards, and managing AV in the education environment (campuses, etc), to offer educators, education professionals, or AV department managers in universities or institutions, new insights and deeper technical knowledge of AV. - Hospitality, directed at facility managers, hotel technology managers, or tourism industry professionals, to discuss new AV technologies for hotels, museums, or entertainment venues, AV design or troubleshooting for conferences or meeting rooms, acoustics and speech reinforcement, etc, to enable them to enhance guest experiences.
Infocomm MEA is proud to work with IMCCA, a non-profit industry association resolved to strengthen and grow the overall unified conferencing and communications market by providing impartial information and education about peopleto-people communication and collaboration technology and applications.The session will look at state-of-the-art solutions for collaboration applications, from unified communications to streaming media to telepresence and mobile solutions. • CERTIFIED TECHNOLOGY SPECIALIST (CTS®) PREPARATORY COURSE The course is designed to assist those who wish to obtain InfoComm’s CTS certification, the recognised credential of a professional AV personnel. InfoComm’s certifications are the only AV credentials by which one can achieve accreditation through the International Organization of Standardization (ISO) and the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) ISO/IEC 17024 certification of personnel as administered in the United States by ANSI. The preparatory course will guide attendees on the CTS exam content areas, test-taking strategies and what to expect on the day of the CTS exam.This is a full three-day programme specially offered during InfoComm MEA 2012. Pre-requisites apply. Please check at www.infocomm.org/cts. • INFOCOMM MEA ORIENTATION TOUR Delegates attending the Education and Hospitality Conferences will also be taken on an Orientation Tour of the Exhibition Hall. InfoComm staff will lead delegates to the Show floor and direct them to exact locations of the applicable technologies and view an actual demonstration of the technologies. For those who would like to join in the tours only, please email shirleyang@infocommasia.com to reserve a spot.
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New, multitasking user interface for enhanced learning
InfoComm MEA 2012 Exhibit Highlights
Enjoy the advantages of an all-in-one presentation device with a stylish and efficient-looking design. The VL series of interactive digital boards from VTRON is a valuable apparatus that caters to a wide variety of learning styles, which in turn translates to an enhanced educational and conferencing environment. In the completely new multitasking user interface, all multimedia content such as interactive presentation documents, video clips, websites, or even a global map are easy to access, and when applied in a classroom setting, leads to a higher level of motivation to participate and learn.
Telepresence within easy reach With the LifeSize® Unity Series from Taxan Gulf FZCO, you can install premium quality, fully integrated and optimised HD video collaboration solutions globally to any workspace quickly and with ease. Through its clever, all-in-one design focused on simple setup and ease of use, this series accelerates decision-making by enabling global deployment of the highest quality HD video collaboration capabilities to meeting rooms of any size.
Best-in-class video, audio and presentation capabilities are combined in a brilliantly optimised, integrated solution.
Optimising room schedules Eliminate booking conflicts with Arrive® InfoPoint™, an Oleophobic Touch Screen Room Scheduling Appliance, which ensures room schedules are optimised. The scheduling platform not only provides booking information at a glance, but also features announcements allowing users to post surveys, sticky notes and emergency notifications. Personalised branding option is available. Arrive Limited also offers CloudPoint™ intelligent Resource Management Portal
(iRMP) that provides access to centralised cloud-based content via unified Cloud Integration Service (CIS). This eliminates the need for dedicated PCs to be installed in the shared space environment like classrooms, lecture, training and meeting rooms. This product can share the same interface with any interactive whiteboard or displays to provide a complete solution for the user.
Systems Integration Asia August - September 2012
EXHIBITION PREVIEW
Freeform displays with LPD technology Prysm’s innovative Laser Phosphor Display (LPD) technology has revolutionised the professional display world with low power consumption, design flexibility and eco-credentials. The modular design allows for the construction of video walls in any shape or size. With viewing angles of up to 180 degrees, an absence of colour shift or minimal brightness fall-off, LPD displays impress from any viewpoint. Each LPD panel draws just 30 watts of power, making it seven times more efficient than average LCD screens. LPD is also cleaner to produce and easier to recycle than existing technologies. The screens also don’t generate heat during operation, hence less energy wastage and no cooling issues for installations in confined spaces.
Two-in-one: digital signage plus surveillance A perfect tool for the busy outlet! AOpen combines digital signage solution and surveillance system into one platform for centralised management. Digital signage deployed at the product shelf can show promotional video to catch the customer’s attention, and with the use of an IP camera, audience metrics can be recorded anonymously. The marketing message can be tailored automatically depending on who is watching. In addition, managers can remotely observe instant customer traffic of the outlet and change the promotional message at the same time. AOpen Digital Signage solution also enables cross-platform application between Linux and Android digital signage players, allowing retailers to engage with customers via their smartphones.
Combined screen and writeable market board Da-Lite’s revolutionary Interactive Dry Erase Application (IDEA) Screen is a dual-purpose projection screen and writeable marker board combination, ideal for use with interactive short throw projectors. The IDEA Screen is designed to be wall-mounted and will integrate seamlessly into any classroom, training room or meeting space. The proprietary Da-Lite projection surface allows the projector to produce superior image quality while maintaining the form and functionality of a marker board.
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Systems Integration Asia August - September 2012
Experience next-generation collaboration Mezzanine™ from Oblong/LSC Group brings together people, screens, devices, applications, and data in one shared workspace. Its flexible collaboration environment is ideal for ideation sessions, interactive presentations, and real time decision-making. Mezzanine melds technologies for collaborative whiteboarding, presentation design and delivery, and application sharing, within a framework of unprecedented multi-participant control. Anyone participating in a session can interact directly, from any location, with any connected person using his or her preferred device (e.g. iPad, iPhone, smartphone, conventional PC).
Making ‘light’ of presentations At just 490 grams, Vivitek Corporation’s Qumi Q5 pocket projector is equally at home with business presentations as it is sharing videos or pictures with friends. It packs a punch delivering crisp pictures and rich colors. Qumi can display PowerPoint presentations, Word, Excel or Adobe PDF files directly from a USB flash drive – no laptop necessary. It even has a built-in Web-Browser, making it the first ‘SmartProjector’. Its multitude of connectivity options, including HDMI, makes the Qumi Q5 the ideal companion for tablets, laptops, and smartphones. With an LED light source guaranteeing 30,000 hours of operation and just three seconds to power on or off, the Qumi Q5 is projection-ready whenever needed.
Touchpanel – power at your fingertips RTI’s KX7 Advanced In-Wall Touchpanel is packed with features for complete control of entertainment, environment and security systems.The wall-mounted touchpanel has a slim profile along with a fully customisable interface rendered beautifully on a LCD touch screen. Concealed beneath this clean, sophisticated design is the amazing power available at your fingertips. The KX-7 has a two-way communication capability built in, allowing direct control and feedback from electronics such as media servers, lighting or security. In addition, analog video inputs make viewing everything from security cameras to satellite TV an enjoyable experience with resolutions of up to 576 pixels.
Systems Integration Asia August - September 2012
EXHIBITION PREVIEW
InfoComm MEA 2012 Exhibitor’s List (As of 25 June 2012) Company
Country
Company
Country
Aavara Intl Corp
Taiwan
Lumens Digital Optics Inc.
Taiwan
Albiral Display Solutions SL
Spain
Lumio
U.S.A.
Analog Way
France
Mediasys Fz-LLC
U.A.E.
AOPEN INC
Taiwan
Meyer Sound Laboratories Inc.,
U.S.A.
Arrive Limited
U.A.E.
Mindstec Distribution FZCO
U.A.E.
AUDIOPROF NV
Belgium
Mitsubishi Electric BV
United Kingdom
Australian Monitor
Australia
NMK Electronics
U.A.E.
Barco
Belgium
Oasis Enterprises
U.A.E.
Barix AG
Switzerland
Oblong
United Kingdom
Beijing Moly Technology
China
projectiondesign
Norway
BrightSign
U.S.A.
Prysm, Inc.
U.S.A.
BXB ELECTRONICS CO LTD
Taiwan
Redleaf Audio & Visual Equipment Co., Ltd
China
COLOGNE GAOKE Import & Export Europe GmbH
Germany
REMACO TECHNOLOGIES PTE LTD
Singapore
RGB Spectrum
U.S.A.
Comm Product Technologies
Singapore
RTI Middle East
Lebanon
Creator Corporation
China
Sapling Company, Inc.
U.S.A.
Crestron
Belgium
SCREENLINE S.R.L.
Italy
d&b audiotechnik GmbH
Germany
Sharp Middle East FZE
U.A.E.
Da-Lite Screen Company LLC
U.S.A.
SiliconCore Technology Inc
U.S.A.
DAS AUDIO S.A.
Spain
Sonic Foundry
U.S.A.
Dataton AB
Sweden
SONY Professional Solutions MEA FZ LLC
U.A.E.
Digital Projection Ltd.
United Kingdom
Taiden Industrial Co., Ltd
China
DIS Middle East
U.A.E.
Tannoy Middle East
U.A.E.
EKTA
Ukraine
Taxan Gulf FZCO
U.A.E.
Elite Screens
U.S.A.
Theatro FZE
U.A.E.
Emmy Mount
China
Thomsun Trading Establishment
U.A.E.
Extron Electronics
The Netherlands
TLS Communication
Germany
Fleetwood Group Electronics
U.S.A. U.S.A.
Universal Champion Electroacoustic Technology Company
Taiwan
Gefen Inc. GR Media Solutions
U.A.E.
VENUETECH LLC
U.A.E.
GSL Professional LLC
U.A.E.
Vivitek Corporation
Taiwan
Guangdong Gonsin Digital Equipment Corp.
China
VTRON TECHNOLOGIES LTD
Hong Kong
IHSEUSA LLC
U.S.A.
VV & Sons
U.A.E.
ILS
The Netherlands
Wanin Educational Multimedia Inc.
China
Infitec Global Sales GmbH
Germany
WolfVision GmbH
Austria
Jupiter Systems
U.S.A.
X-Way
Belgium
Leaf Audio
U.A.E.
XLT SYSTEMS PTE LTD
Singapore
LIGHTWARE VISUAL ENGINEERING
Hungary
Zio Technologies LLC
U.A.E.
Links AV
U.S.A.
MIDDLE EAST & AFRICA
2012
Venue and Show Hours
InfoComm MEA Pro-AV solutions. Proactive strategies. www.infocomm-mea.com
Sheikh Saeed Hall, Opposite Hall 1, Dubai International Convention & Exhibition Centre 14 October (Sun)
1:00pm – 7:00pm
Co-located with GITEX TECHNOLOGY WEEK Empowering. Connecting. Entertaining. www.gitex.com
15-17 October (Mon-Wed)
11:00am – 7:00pm
18 October (Thu)
11:00am – 5:00pm
Admission • Admission is free. Pre-registration is advised at www.infocommmea.com/visit_register.php.
Organisers
• The show is strictly for trade and business visitors only. • Badges will be issued upon registration for entry. Badges are non-transferable. • Visitors must be properly attired.
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Systems Integration Asia August - September 2012
InfoComm 2012 Delivers
34,628 AV professionals from more than 90 countries attended InfoComm 2012, which represented an increase of four percent from 2011. Registrations for InfoComm University educational courses totalled 6,940, up 15.6 percent over last year. Super Tuesday, a full-day of advanced instruction for AV pros, attracted 850 registrants in 2012, up 32 percent from 2011. PreComm attracted 501 registrants, up six percent from 2011. More than 5,561 attended seminars and workshops, nearly 1,000 more than last year. To boot, there were 933 exhibitors participating at InfoComm this year, occupying more than 487,000 net square feet of exhibit and special events space. “InfoComm continues to be the one trade show where most professional AV service providers make their important buying decisions for the year,” said Randal A. Lemke, Ph.D., Executive Director & CEO, InfoComm International.
“The AV marketplace has enthusiastically embraced InfoComm as the place to make their purchasing choices, network with product and service providers, and enhance skills through our robust educational program.”
The exhibition not only delivered in terms of visitors and courses but in terms of some interesting product developments as well. Here we bring you a few of the exhibit highlights that caught our eye.
Exhibit Highlights ABtUS engages visitors with its latest Ultra Long-distance HDMI extenders
Singapore based manufacturer ABtUS introduced a series of products that are made better by simple CAT-5 extension capabilities. Among the various new products that consists of matrix switchers (with additional CAT-5 extension), classroom projector controller (with additional CAT-5 extension) and Eco distributor amplifier (with additional CAT-5 extension), the new ABtUS Ultra long-distance HDMI/DVI over CAT-5 extender stood out. CAT-5 extenders are common in the market but what makes the extender a
head turner is the ability to extend both digital and analog signal over 300m. It’s certainly an uncommon feat to see a digital extender that works well for anything over 150m but ABtUS had gone ahead anyway to develop this new extender that transmits Full 1080p digital signals way beyond 150m and up to a staggering 300m. The product, in itself, is a major breakthrough in AV technology. Apart from being able to transmit Full HD signal over long distance, the extender is also able to support regular scaling
functions such as auto gain and EQ control, auto RGB delay control and OSD full function control. It is a flexible unit and can be installed in almost any AV installation as the signal input and output could be interchangeable from DVI to HDMI with any regular DVI to HDMI converter. Furthermore, to cater for installation with multiple displays, the transmitter is also built in with 8 CAT5 outputs to deliver the signal to various locations. www.abtussingapore.com
Systems Integration Asia August - September 2012
EXHIBITION REVIEW
AMX showcases Modero X Series 7” and 10” Touch Panels with NFC support
The smaller, widescreen versions belong to the multi-awardwinning family of touch panels that were expressly designed to incorporate multi-touch capabilities such as gesturing, swiping and tapping that mobile phone and tablet users have come to love and are so comfortable using. “95 percent of the success of a control system is the user interface,” explained Robert Noble, AMX Chief Technology Officer. “Individuals the world over have become accustomed to the use of command-based gesturing, tapping and scrolling to interface with their technology. The user interface of the Modero X Series takes this human element of interacting with technology to a higher degree of intuitiveness – so the user can actually take advantage of the advanced functionality onboard.” The new 7 and 10-inch models not only stand out for their instinctive approach but also functionality. Features include a capacitive multi-touch screen, high-definition video streaming, Bluetooth VoIP and USB external phone connections. The 10-inch adds a high definition camera for video chat and conferencing (in tabletop and wall landscape models). And demonstrating future readiness, the Modero X Series also support Near Field Communications (NFC). NFC enables device personalization by allowing two devices in close proximity to exchange data, such as between a smartphone and another NFC-enabled device. As much as the 7-inch, 10-inch and other Modero X Series models are a radical departure from last-generation touch panels in technology, the same is true for their look. The widescreen, frameless, edge-2-edge glass design looks and functions unlike any touch panel on the market to deliver a user experience like never before. AMX has already released the 20.3-inch and 19.4-inch panoramic models, available in tabletop and wall-mounted options. The Modero X Series 4.3-inch models will begin shipping in Q3 2012. www.amx.com/Xseries
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Systems Integration Asia August - September 2012
Analog Way expands its range of Soft Edge Blending systems
Analog Way’s new Smart Edge FX, the STE200 is an advanced High Resolution Seamless Switcher with Dual Output Edge Blending. Smart Edge FX offers up to twelve inputs, including four fitted with 3G/HD/SD-SDI and two fitted with HDCP compliant DVI. It outputs digital and analogue signals in DVI, RGB, and offers a Video Output card providing SD or HD-TV formats in various signals from Composite Video to HD-SDI.Smart Edge FX can display up to four layers including one logo, one frame, and two live layers customizable by the user. The product allows the display of up to two PIPs on a still background, or one PIP on a live background. Seamless transitions are available as well as a variety of visuals effects which can be combined
during transitions such as dynamic PIP, flying, zooming and cropping PIP, etc. Multi-Screen Edge Blending can be achieved by linking up to three Smart Edge FX units, resulting in a panoramic image with two, four, or even six video-projectors, either horizontally or vertically, without any loss of synchronization. Also shown was the improved Smart Edge STE100 which now has been upgraded to include a PIP feature and Frame Store memory. The new version adds the ability to display one PIP on a frame background with true seamless transitions.
Together with the Di-VentiX II (Ref. DVX8044), which is a versatile Quad Scaler Seamless Switcher with Mixer, Matrix and Edge Blending modes, Franck Facon, Marketing & Communications Director comments, “Analog Way has a long history in the development of solutions enabling the creation of wide images, either horizontally or vertically. Combining this with different levels of processing capabilities, we now offer three Edge Blending systems capable of meeting the needs of a variety of applications through different inputs, layers and effects.” www.analogway.com
Atlona® showcases AVnu Alliance fuels A/V Interoperability High-Speed DVI with live demonstration The AVnu Alliance showcased live In addition a full program of AVB Plus Audio 16x16 demonstrations of AVB-enabled devices seminars was also scheduled at the that highlighted A/V networking AVnu Alliance Pavilion, catering to the Matrix Switcher simplicity as systems from 15 pro A/V equipment manufacturers and platform providers interoperated at the AVnu Alliance Pavilion. This was to date the most comprehensive multi-vendor AVB demonstration.
The Atlona® AT-HDDVI1616-AM 16x16 DVI plus audio matrix switcher is HDCP compliant, offering three control options, nine programmable memory presets, and EDID learning. With switching as fast as .5 seconds and resolutions of up to 1920x1200 or 2Kx1K, the AT-HDDV1616AM enables crisp video for presentations of all types. www.atlona.com
The interoperability demo featured devices from 15 member companies, including Pro A/V equipment manufacturers Avid, Biamp, Bosch, Harman, Meyer Sound, Riedel Communications, Sennheiser, and Yamaha, network equipment vendor Extreme Networks, as well as platform providers Analog Devices, Audinate, Lab X, Marvell, UMAN, and XMOS.
diverse roles in the A/V ecosystem. These sessions ranged from introduction to AVB, advanced technical overview, and advantages for A/V manufacturers to application-specific topics covering house of worship, education, live performance, and more.
“As we roll out the AVnu certification program for AVB devices, we have been getting more and more requests for AVB education programs,” says Lee Minich, marketing chair for AVnu Alliance. “Our presence at InfoComm underscores the deep cooperation among members to make AVB deployment a reality.” www.avnu.org
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EXHIBITION REVIEW
Biamp Systems introduces AudiaVOIPÂŽ Biamp Systems’ AudiaVOIP is designed for AV integrators who need a dedicated, self-contained Voice over IP (VoIP) teleconferencing solution, AudiaVOIP is the latest innovation from Biamp and its newest Audia product. With plug-and-play simplicity, AudiaVOIP includes all of the necessary features and functionality needed for today’s most demanding VoIP systems. “We developed AudiaVOIP based on feedback from our partners who requested a very speciďŹ c type of processor for VoIP systems,â€? said Justin O’Connor, Audio Product Manager, Biamp Systems. “It features the same power and reliability that integrators have come to expect from Audia, with the necessary features included for an optimized VoIP conference system. We have extensive experience with VoIP technology and projects, our industry-leading expertise has been incorporated in this new solution.â€?
AudiaVOIP relies on Sona, the industry-leading acoustic echo cancellation (AEC) algorithm, to handle the stringent audio demands of VoIP conferencing systems and provide precise, intelligible audio. AudiaVOIP also provides a range of I/O options via IP-2, OP-2e, VoIP, and PA-2 ampliďŹ er cards, and ships with a DAP ďŹ le loaded to allow quick and easy conďŹ gurations. A pre-designed daVinci control ďŹ le is also available for use with the AudiaVOIP. www.biamp.com
Crestron showcases Fusion™ Enterprise Management Solution Crestron’s FusionÂŽ enterprise management solution is a modular platform providing the foundation for smarter buildings that save energy and enhance worker productivity. Customers can choose to deploy Fusion RV™(RoomView), Fusion EM™(Energy Management) or both based on organizational needs. Fusion RV enables organizations to centrally monitor and manage room scheduling, as well as AV presentation and video conferencing resources, including CaptureLiveHD™, from the help desk. It can track device and room usage to schedule routine maintenance, provide real-time remote technical support and receive instant alert notiďŹ cations. Robust reporting features provide data to make more effective purchasing and scheduling decisions. Fully integrated with MicrosoftÂŽ Exchange Server, IBMÂŽ, Lotus NotesÂŽ, and CollegeNet™ R25ÂŽ for scheduling, Fusion RV enables occupants to conveniently book conference rooms from the web browser, a touch screen mounted inside or outside the room, or from Microsoft OutlookÂŽ. The Award winning, Fusion EM manages and monitors renewable and sustainable energy sources in real-time, and displays historical usage data for day, week, month or year. It also provides environmental control, including lighting, shades and climate, to intelligently integrate with room scheduling and occupancy for greater energy savings. Fusion EM is able to track the building’s carbon footprint while enabling facility managers to easily analyze energy consumption. Designed for unlimited scalability to accommodate organizational growth as a robust, scalable enterprise application, Fusion provides direct database integration with Microsoft SQL ServerÂŽ - from standalone server to enterprise fault-tolerant clusters. As networks and room capacity grow, additional Fusion servers can be added and fully integrated for faster performance across the enterprise. Enhanced reporting features in Fusion simplify planning and forecasting. Managers can view detailed reports with room usage statistics, lamp replacement schedules, AV equipment usage, and more. Quick reports can be created using simple built-in report templates. Custom reports can also be easily created. Automatic email scheduling can be used to send reports to a group of recipients on a recurring basis. Additionally,
email alerts can be sent to support staff when projector lamps are nearing end-of-life, increasing the efďŹ ciency of routine maintenance tasks and preventing equipment failure during usage. www.crestron.com/fusion.
CORIOgraphy ‌ let your imagination dance
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TV One Asia, 16F-4, No 75, Sec. 1, Xintai 5th Road, Xizhi Dist, New Taipei City 22101, Taiwan ROC Phone: +886 2 2698-2296 s Fax: +886 2 2698-2297 www.tvoneasia.com s sales.asia@tvone.com E&OE All C
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Dataton Haivision debuts HyperStream™ Live emphasizes that harnesses the power of cloud Haivision’s HyperStream™ Live is a on knowledge simplified and automated service that brings the power of cloud transcoding transfer for users and CDN connectivity to content producers, so that they can deliver a to get the best much better visual experience to every viewer. Cloud transcoding out of WATCHOUT Internet allows streamers to maximize uplink bandwidth by sending a single high5.2 quality stream from the source to the cloud, and then uses the cloud’s abundant computing power and network capacity to create the various bit rates necessary for adaptive streaming. A user-managed, pay-per-use software as a service (SaaS), HyperStream Live
simplifies and automates transcoding in the cloud (Amazon EC2™) and global delivery over a CDN (Akamai). www.haivision.com
Jupiter Systems introduces “Canvas,” a Multipoint Collaborative Visualization Solution for the Enterprise
“Since the introduction of WATCHOUT version 5.2 earlier this year, we’ve received a tremendous response from users,” says Fredrik Svahnberg, Marketing Director, Dataton AB. “We’re consistently impressed with the new and exciting ways in which WATCHOUT is used in the market and we hope to highlight just a few of these during InfoComm 2012. We believe the Academy program is an excellent way to transfer knowledge of the huge creative potential in WATCHOUT.” The Dataton WATCHOUT Academy training programme ran throughout the show to a size-able audience. WATCHOUT version 5.2 multi-display production and playback system is fully scalable, software based and does not require proprietary hardware. It orchestrates still images, animations, graphics, video, sound and live feeds into a single show across multiple display areas, either soft-edge blended or scattered. www.dataton.com
Jupiter Systems unveiled the revolutionary new Canvas visualization and collaboration solution that allows users in the control room, across campus, and around the world to see, share, annotate and collaborate on video and desktop streams. Canvas allows users to share video streams and captured desktop streams over an enterprise network. The Canvas client-server software is secure, easy to configure, and simple to administer. Canvas is the solution for any enterprise employing video streams in the conduct of its mission and a distributed team, such as traffic management centers, public transportation agencies, electrical
and water utilities, private and public security, law enforcement, emergency operations centers, telecom and data NOCs, petroleum producers and refiners, and manufacturing operations, among others. At the heart of the new system is a “canvas”—a sharable collage of visual objects. A canvas can include a source viewer for video and desktop streams, a grid for organizing objects, a label that can have dynamic properties and display data from network sources, and a frame that can include a title. A toolkit allows other widgets to be custom made by Jupiter, integrators, or the end user.
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Canvas truly offers a breakthrough in Real Collaboration. Sharing a common operating picture across the enterprise is essential, but insufficient by itself. Effective management of emerging situations depends on collaboration. Canvas brings a rich set of familiar tools for collaboration and allows them to be used in ways that no other system can. For the first time, managers at multiple locations can annotate directly on moving video. Where other products require users to capture a still image of a screen for annotation, Canvas enables its users to draw with a mouse, finger or stylus on the video itself. Areas of interest can be circled, labeled, called out, annotated freehand. Rectangles and other shapes can be dragged from the toolbar on to any area in the video where they can be resized, colored, and titled. Text can be typed directly on the video. Whiteboards can be created for brainstorming. With appropriate security permissions, users can employ Canvas Remote Desktop Mimic or Canvas Remote Cursor to visualize and control remote desktops and applications. Canvas provides essential security unmatched in the industry. Employing a superior security design, Canvas provides object-level security for all sources, eliminating inadvertent disclosure of restricted content. System access requires user authentication by the customer’s own Active Directory. Secure login is accomplished using the standard user name and password combination established by the customer’s IT department. Windows Single Sign-On (SSO) is supported.
Orchestrate! Go ahead – create truly sensational multi-display shows with Dataton WATCHOUT™ production and playback software. Orchestrate virtually all types of digital media, including 3D, live feeds and streaming. Manipulate the content in real-time, and show it on multiple, synchronized displays. Now in version 5.2, Chinese language.
Orchestrate! Go ahead – create truly sensational multi-display shows with Dataton WATCHOUT™ production and playback software. Orchestrate virtually all types of digital media, including 3D, live feeds and streaming. Manipulate the content in real-time, and show it on multiple, synchronized displays. Now in award-winning version 5.
Carrières de Lumières: Dramatic 68 projector WATCHOUT show on walls and floors in old chalk mine. Image courtesy Videmus.
The design of the Canvas user interface is driven by the principles of good consumer product design. Every aspect of the GUI—the icons, the menu structure, the ergonomics of the workflow scheme—are aimed to provide a great user experience. The Canvas interface is also designed to be universal. The GUI is identical on the display wall and the PC, its features equally useful in both environments. A user who typically works with Canvas on a PC in his office will be able to use the system running on the largest control room display wall without retraining. Canvas is established as a client-server application. Customers choose the number of Canvas Clients desired for Windows devices and add the Canvas Server software to networked server hardware. Canvas Encoders can be added for any remote PCs that will serve as Canvas sources. www.jupiter.com
Renkus Heinz introduces the Ralph Heinz Signature Series
CES 2012: WATCHOUT orchestrates a 60 ft video wall with 63 screens. Image courtesy Mind Opera.
VISIT US AT 2012 JUNE 13-15 # N1641
INFOCOMM CES 2012: WATCHOUT orchestrates a 60 ft video wall with 63 screens. Image courtesy Mind Opera.
VISIT US AT INFOCOMM MEA OCT 14-18, TA-C40 DUBAI
www.dataton.com/watch out
The Ralph Heinz Signature Series loudspeakers is a versatile new line of loudspeakers that features a range of two- and three-way enclosures designed for professional audio applications including the theater and touring markets. The RH Series includes six-inch, eight-inch, and ten-inch two-way models, as well as twelve-inch and fifteen-inch three-way models. All models feature a dual wedge angle design, integral multiangle pole, screw thread points, and multiple rigging and mounting options including Yoke Mount, Wall Mount, and U-Bracket hardware. Both self-powered and passive models are available. www.renkus-heinz.com
www.dataton.com/watch out
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Kramer Electronics showcases Sierra Video Aspen 3232 Multi-format routing switcher
Kramer Electronics showcased its subsidiary Sierra Video Systems’ first model in a new line of compact video 3G HD-SDI routing switchers, the Aspen 3232. The Aspen line will be a line of general utility 3G HD-SDI routing switchers ideal for use in any video installation, including rental and staging applications, higher education facilities, houses of worship, hospitals, broadcast facilities and post production facilities. The Aspen 3232 is a multi-rate router compatible with 3G, HD-SDI and SDI signals from 19 Mb/s to 2.97 Gb/s (3G). The Aspen 3232 is compact at only 2.5” deep and takes up just 2RU in a standard equipment rack. The Aspen 3232 is also tremendously energy efficient, requiring less than 32 Watts of power including the power consumed by its standard builtin routing switcher control system and
front panel panel. A unique feature of the Aspen 3232 is that, due to its advanced technology, this router can drive signals further than most typical 3G HD-SDI routing switchers. The Aspen 3232HD3G can drive 3G signals over 500ft (155 meters using Belden 1694A cable). The Aspen 3232 routing switcher is a format-flexible 3G HD-SDI routing switcher capable of handling all SMPTE serial digital video signal formats on every input of the router including SMPTE 424M, SMPTE 259M, SMPTE 344M and DVB-ASI up to 540 Mbps and 3G and HDSDI video signals conforming to SMPTE 292M (1.485GBps single link). The Sierra Video Aspen 3232 router also provides user control of the Input Equalization and Output Re-clocking circuitry. When using non-SMPTE signals the Re-clockers can be bypassed if required, so they do not interfere with the signal.
The introduction of the Aspen 3232 coincides with the introduction of Sierra’s new control system architecture based on IP, SNMP, and a web interface. The Aspen 3232’s embedded controller can be accessed via the TCP-IP or RS 232/422 serial interface making it easy to integrate into any automation or control system. The built-in web server offers convenient control and setup functions and works with any OS, browser and most handheld devices. The Aspen 3232 includes a front panel control lockout and offers the ability to create and launch salvos. Companion audio routers are also available for the Aspen 3232 and are controllable by the embedded controller. A redundant power supply option is also available. www.kramerelectronics.com
Gain entry to QSCtraining.com Website without the need for registration Unlike training websites where user information or registration is required to gain entry to content, QSCtraining. com is open to the public and free of charge. All of the training courses on the site are non-linear and fully searchable. For example, a user can take an entire course to become certified on the Q-Sys™Integrated System Platform, or choose to search individual modules for help on a specific Q-Sys component. QSC deserves Kudos for this step alone!
QSCtraining.com features training courses and product presentations, as well as instructional videos and podcasts, created to assist customers all over the world with the latest information and updates on the full line of QSC products and solutions– including loudspeakers, amplifiers, networking and signal processing. Online tests & assessments based on the course material give
users valuable feedback while also rating comprehension on the material they have just learned. A number of training modules on QSCtraining. com will soon be recognized toward the RU requirements for INFOCOMM Certification. www.qscaudio.com
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Revolabs introduces new service and support initiatives The company has introduced — and is now shipping — all microphones with field-replaceable batteries. In addition, to better support its customers, Revolabs has expanded its manufacturer’s warranty and introduced new revoCARE extended service coverage. With Revolabs’ new V3 microphones featuring field replaceable batteries, users can now easily purchase batteries as an accessory from their dealer/distributor. To swap batteries, users simply open the microphone, put in the new battery, and charge it. Old batteries can be sent to Revolabs for disposal as part of the company’s free recycling program. The V3 microphones also allow users to keep spare batteries fully charged and ready to go by purchasing a new battery charging adaptor, which allows batteries to be charged without
placing the whole microphone in the charger. For customers with legacy microphones who wish to upgrade to the new V3 microphones, Revolabs is offering an exchange program, which will dramatically reduce the transition costs. As part of its bolstered customer support, Revolabs is providing a longer limited manufacturer’s warranty by making it effective from the end user’s invoice date. The warranty now includes 90 days of complimentary advanced replacement, service, and technical support. Within these 90 days, customers can purchase RevoCare extended service coverage to continue receiving support for another three years. www.revolabs.com
Symetrix showcases SymNet Edge
SymNet Edge: The next generation of open-architecture DSP technology with modular I/O and Dante networked audio.
Magenta Makes Signal Distribution Easy
Symetrix designed Edge to meet the I/O capacity requirements of the bulk of commercial sound installations. Edge features four configurable I/O card slots, up to 16 channels total of local I/O plus 128 (64x64) channels of Dante network audio. Flexible I/O and plug-and-play networking enable multiple Edge units to scale to your projects’ demands. Built for performance, Edge’s DSP efficiency, consistently provides more processing per project. An internal gigabit switch provides the bandwidth that unleashes the power of Dante to deliver ultra-low latency networked audio. Multiple units may be connected without additional third-party network switches, or, with additional hardware configured for redundant operation with seamless failover. SymNet Composer software manages all aspects of Edge hardware including audio, control and security with an intuitive drag and drop CAD-style interface. Composer’s fast, fluid navigation accelerates site file design with over 500 proven DSP modules.
VOYAGER Fiber-optic delivery of analog or digital video, plus audio and serial. Switching to 640 ports. Distances to 18.6 miles.
MULTIVIEW UTP-based delivery of analog or digital video, plus audio and serial. Switching to 256x512. Distances to 2,000 feet.
End user control options for Edge include Symetrix’ ARC wall panels, ARC-WEB browser based remote, SymVue custom standalone user control application, logic I/O, and third party controllers, such as Crestron and AMX. www.symetrix.co
Magenta unravels the complexity of Pro AV switching, extension and distribution. Analog or digital, copper or fiber, our solutions are flexible, scalable and, of course, rock-solid reliable. Which makes them easy to specify and straightforward to integrate. We’re large system specialists, able to connect hundreds of signals across huge distances with unrivaled quality. In a world of increasingly complex AV systems, Magenta engineers more than great technology.
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Technology In Design
EXPO 2012
TM
CALLING ALL SYSTEM INTEGRATORS, TECHNOLOGY INSTALLERS + ELECTRICIANS CEDIA Expo will showcase the latest and greatest technology solutions from the worldâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s best security, home cinema and more. It will educate, motivate and inspire. It will provide you with the opportunity to take advantage of the comprehensive seminar programs designed for you by the global industry body that sets the standard in custom electronic design and installation.
International Convention and Exhibition Centre, Shanghai Wednesday 7th November 2012, 09:00am - 5:00pm Thursday 8th November 2012, 10:00am - 5:00pm 10:00am - 3:00pm Friday 9th November 2012,
www.cediachina.com ENTER CODE CCEX11
CEDIA Expo is strictly a TRADE ONLY event on 7-9 November and proof of trade identification will be requested on arrival at the venue.
Systems Integration Asia August - September 2012
EXHIBITION REVIEW
Yamaha showcases comprehensive line-up of commercial installation products Yamaha launched a new lineup of dedicated installed sound products focused on small to mid-size applications such as retail stores, banquet halls, restaurants and more. These products mark Yamaha’s entry into the commercial installation market as a system solution provider. The lineup consists of MTX Series matrix processors with accompanying MTX Editor software, XMV Series multi-channel power amplifiers, VXS Series surface mount speakers, VXC Series ceiling speakers, as well as many peripherals that support these products - providing necessary components from the input to the output stages to create sound solutions for various applications. Each of the products offers its own individual advantages and benefits, however using them in combination will simultaneously maximize their performance while simplifying system design, since the entire line-up was developed around the same core concepts. The product line-up feature a host of benefits such as Intelligent Matrix Processing; programmable features designed specifically for commercial installed sound; Multi-zone capability; New YDIF audio transmission format from Yamaha; Fast and easy connection using only standard Ethernet cable; System configuration software MTX Editor; High/Low impedance switchable amplifiers and speakers; Pre-installed library of optimized speaker settings;
MTX Series matrix processors feature easily recalled speaker processing settings that improve the performance of specific Yamaha commercial installation speakers; MTX5-D and XMV-D models are equipped with a built-in Dante port; Compatibility with Dante Network which enables systems to be expanded seamlessly using Dante-enabled equipment including Yamaha’s CL Series digital mixers and Rio I/O rack units. The MTX Series matrix processors is comprised of two models with varying DSP capacities and expansion capabilities; the MTX3 and the MTX5-D. The accompanying MTX Editor software manages the setup of the entire sound solution using an intuitive interface that mirrors the actual workflow of every stage of system design, from product selection to system configuration. The XMV multi-channel power amplifiers combine Class-D efficiency with features designed specifically to benefit commercial installation sound systems. The Series is comprised of four different models with varying output power capabilities and flexible in/out connectivity to accommodate a wide range of installation environments. The VXS Series Surface Mount Speakers and VXC Series Ceiling Speakers feature newly customized transducers with large, powerful magnetic circuits that increase driving and braking force substantially, as well as dedicated tweeter diaphragms
and speaker cone paper made from a carefully-created blend of materials that help optimize sound reproduction. Cabinets are built to meet the demands of a wide variety of commercial environments, constructed from highquality plastic with ideal tensile strength, and designed with optimized bass-reflex tuning to offer a firm, tight low-end. The VXC Series comes in three different woofer sizes, offering the flexibility required to meet a range of needs and allowing system configurations to be tailored to specific applications. Moreover, they feature a built-in AntiDrop tab that allows them to be mounted temporarily in the ceiling for improved safety and ease of installation, as well as a flexible carrying band that makes it easy to carry multiple speakers at once. The VXS Series features two IP45rated full-range models for both indoor and outdoor applications, and two subwoofers intended for use in sound systems that require a well-defined bass. Equipped with a dedicated bracket for safe, trouble-free speaker installation, VXS full-range models can be mounted temporarily, freeing your hands to adjust mounting angles. Subwoofers also feature brackets for fast and easy mounting. http://www.yamahaproaudio. com/global/en/applications/ installedsound/cis/
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Systems Integration Asia August - September 2012
True Way Presbyterian upgrades its audio system “The screens are then placed just behind the speakers as there is practically nowhere else to place them due to the ceiling structures and centerpiece stain glass,” says Robert. Amidst all these challenges, Robert agrees that the worship hall is ideal for the Presbyterian style of worship. All the speakers were specified in white to fit the visually sensitive worship hall, as well as for a neater integration.
The KV2 speakers were embedded in the ceiling to achieve the sufficient height and proper angles required
Situated in the western suburbs of Singapore, True Way Presbyterian Church has a four-storey church building and her roots date back to the 1930s. True Way shifted to the current location in the 1950s. The church went through a few phases of development with a new sanctuary extension being completed in 1997. The church recently decided to upgrade its audio and visual systems to better serve its congregation. The Sanctuary (worship hall), which sits approximately 450 worshipers, is as majestic as it is acoustically challenging. With its complex ceiling structures and exquisite stain glass centerpiece, the Sanctuary creates a largely reflective environment that hinders with voice and music intelligibility. The church’s previous audio systems did little to address issues of poor sound distribution. “This used to sound like a boom box. Whenever we use the stage monitor, the noise from the stage would revert heavily back into the hall, making it difficult to control the sound level and quality,” explained Siang Hwa, Head of AV at True Way.
Acoustic panels installed along the side walls of the stage to deal with the unwanted reflections
Robert explains, “This place is a little challenging due to the history and ceiling structures. In designs like these, it is very difficult to put loudspeakers in proper locations that evenly cover the hall without being obstructed by the structures.” An unorthodox approach was then taken to address this issue, where the rears of some loudspeaker cabinets were partially embedded in the ceiling to achieve the sufficient height and proper angles required. Acoustic paneling were also strategically placed to deal with the unwanted reflections. The end result is a smooth and even coverage throughout the worship hall.
After much discussion and planning amidst budget considerations, True Way turned to Robert Soo, Principal Consultant of Cogent Acoustics, who designed and configured a system based around KV2 ES Series high output modular speakers and subwoofers. Siang Hwa adds, “We actually conducted a speaker shoot out before zeroing in on the KV2s. Acoustic panels were also added as part of the upgrade to deal with the long reverberation and slap back echoes.”
Pinnacle Pro Motorised screens with tab tension
The audio installation, designed in a left-right configuration, features a composition of KV2 ES1.0 3 way high output speakers for the main FOH and KV2 ESD10 2-way full-range compact passive loudspeaker for front-fills as well as for delay speakers. Floor standing KV2 ES 1.8 18” high output horn loaded subwoofers complement the full range speakers. The KV2 ES1.0 and ES 1.8 units are driven by KV2 EPAK2500R 4-way active control power amplifiers and the ESD10 units are driven by QSC RMX2450 dual channel power amplifiers. Stage monitoring for singers is handled by 2 way Electro-Voice ELX-112 stage monitor systems driven by QSC GX3 dual channel power amplifiers. “Stage is kept relatively clean and simple, as part of the traditional requirements of the church. In fact, the rest of the Sanctuary is generally left untouched aside from controlling the amount of reverberation on stage,” adds Robert. Robert also specified a unit of Allen & Heath’s iLive T-112 digital mixing console including a unit of A&H iDR32 MixRack at Front of House and a unit of iDR48 MixRack at the Amplifier room. The A&H iLive T-112 was selected after he and the Siang Hwa evaluated various brands of digital mixers and found that the iLive T-112 is not only good sonically but it is also very user-friendly that the church volunteers could quickly adapt to the system for the sound reinforcement mix.
Systems Integration Asia August - September 2012
INSTALLATIONS
Control of the entire visual solutions is done via a 6.4” wireless TFT LCD touch screen panel (T4) and controller by RTI Technologies. This enables the technical crew to easily manage the projectors, screens and LED display. RTI specializes in advanced control products for automating the operation of audio, video and environmental management systems. Allen & Heath’s iLive T-112
Christopher Chang, Managing Director/Founder of WOW! Media Resources Pte Ltd, responsible for the installation of the systems, assessed the whole process thus, “There was a need to address the structural problems before we could proceed to sit the speakers up into the ceiling. A couple of modifications had to be done to the internal structure of the stage and the ceiling for that to happen.” Having tackled the sound distribution challenges, Robert and Christopher had to also look into the band requirements. “One of the things we wanted to do was to control the live sound from the drums so we had to put them in a pretty elaborated drum shield to help control the live sounds and spills,” says Christopher.
A range of Shure microphones were placed for instruments and the drum kit. The inventory also included 4 units of Shure ULX wireless UHF systems with WCS6 Earset microphones and two units of Shure additional wireless handled microphones with Beta87A element and a Shure UA844 Antenna distributor system. In addition 6 units of Sennheiser EW300 wireless (UHF) inear monitoring systems and one set of Sennheiser Antenna combiner system for wireless in-ear monitoring were included. Visual solutions at the worship hall consists of two Pinnacle Pro Motorised screens with tab tension placed on the left and right side of the sanctuary and behind the speakers. Noting that the speakers may block the view of visuals projected, the projection is adjusted to frame the projections just below the speakers. Projection is handled by two units of NEC PA-600X, 6,000 ANSI lumens LCD projectors with standard lens. A mix of Kramer and Extron accessories ensure that projection from the Panasonic CCD camera are scaled, converted and distributed correctly. A 40” HD LED Samsung TV was also installed at the Lobby area. Two HD high resolution SDI integrated AW-HE50S pan/tilt/zoom camera by PANASONIC were also provided.
WOW! Media Resources also took responsibility for the lighting system. Christopher comments, “For lighting, we wanted to fulfill two key areas – sufficient lighting for camera recording as well as adding LED washer lights to brighten up the stage performances, which we accomplished to the Church’s satisfaction.”
LED washer lights were installed to brighten up the stage performances
The project took three months to complete and was conducted in phases – the camera was commissioned first, followed by the video, lights and audio. The congregation as well as the pastors, band members, singers and choir are enjoying the worship experience a lot better now. The KV2s, QSC and Allen & Heath solutions were supplied by Sindo Exports, while Electronics & Engineering brought in the Shure and myMix systems. WOW! Media Resources brought in both RTI Technologies and TOA Electronics. www.trueway.org.sg www.cogentacoustics.com www.wowmediar.com www.sindoexport.com
myMix systems for the live band
“In addition, myMix was introduced to allow the musicians to use in-ear monitoring. It also helped to control the inputs and relieve the sound guy at the board and the spill-overs.” The myMix systems have proven to be a hit especially in the worship community as it provides clarity at a controlled volume enabling musicians to hear themselves and adjust their instruments accordingly so that those in front of the band have a more pleasant experience during worship.
(L-R) Christopher Chang of WOW! Media Resources, Robert Soo of Cogent Acoustics, Siang Hwa of True Way, Koh Huimin of Sindo Exports, Adwin Lin of Broadcast Professional
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QSC solutions form audio backbone of the Xinjiang International Expo Centre QSC Q-Sys™, ILA, WideLine™-8, AcousticDesign™ and K Series Loudspeakers feature at the Exhibition Centre features a Q-Sys I/O Frame, PowerLight 3 amplification, and 12 WideLine-8 units, as well as AD-S282H speakers. The smaller chambers, such as one of the 400-seater lecture halls used by the United Nations for press conferences during the China-Eurasia Forum, also benefited from QSC technology. This chamber again features a dedicated Q-Sys I/O Frame, with eight ceilingsuspended QSC ILA speakers driven by PowerLight 3s, and supplemented with AcousticDesign speakers around the chamber. For the most select meetings between officials, such as those held during the forum by Keqiang Li, Vice-Premier of the State Council of China, a 150-seater conference room was used, employing QSC AD-C821R ceiling-mounted and AD-S282H ceilingsuspended speakers, together with K Series Active loudspeakers. The United Nations used this 400-seat lecture hall for conferences at the China-Eurasia Economic Forum. It is equipped with Q-Sys I/O, and with ILA and AcousticDesign speakers powered by QSC PowerLight 3s.
The QSC Q-Sys™ integrated System Platform has been chosen as the backbone of the audio systems at the Xinjiang International Expo Centre, the main regional conference and exhibition centre in north-west China. Comprising two Core 1000 Q-Sys processors, together with multiple QSC PowerLight™ 3 amplifiers and speakers from the QSC WideLine™, ILA, AcousticDesign™ and K Series, the QSC audio systems were designed by PCI, the exclusive QSC distributor in China, and installed in over 20 conference rooms at the centre. The system was completed and made operational in time for the first ChinaEurasia Economic Development & Cooperation Forum, held in the Xinjiang capital Ürümqi last Autumn. Bordering Russia and several Central Asian states, Xinjiang is often regarded as a bridge from China to the rest of Asia and Europe, making it the perfect location for international trade fairs, exhibitions and economic forums. The 45,000m2 conference centre was designed with these nationally important functions in mind, and as such, has become a symbol of the new China in Ürümqi. As with any other convention centre used for international economic summits, the audio networks, PAs and conferencing systems at the Conference Centre had to be easy to use, reliable and flexible, with
ample redundancy. PCI recommended Q-Sys to the managers tasked with the project of upgrading the centre’s audio systems: as an easily controllable, powerful system, scalable to a variety of applications, it was the perfect solution. The Xinjiang Exhibition and Conference center has 22 conference rooms spread over 3 different floors. A single Q-Sys Core 1000 unit (with a second unit for redundancy) now manages all of the audio signals from the complex’s central control room, monitoring the operational state of all the system’s I/O Frame units, loudspeakers and PowerLight 3 amplifiers, and controlling the systemwide signal processing and routing. During the Forum’s opening ceremony, for example, Q-Sys was used to route the audio from the main conference chamber to four other rooms around the Exhibition Centre. The largest room in the centre is a 1500-seater auditorium, which incorporates its own dedicated Q-Sys I/O Frame, PowerLight 3 amps, AD-S282H AcousticDesign speakers, together with AD-C2100 ceiling speakers arranged in six zones, as the chamber can be divided up to six ways if required. Another conference hall which uses QSC products extensively has a maximum capacity of 800, and was dedicated to press conferences during the Forum. It
Following the Expo, the Exhibition Centre’s management commented: “The Q-Sys platform was so powerful and easy to use, it allowed us to simply focus on the running of the conference itself. It proved itself absolutely ideal for this kind of project.” http://qsc.com
This 800-seat chamber was used for press conferences during the forum, and features a QSC Q-Sys I/O Frame, PL3 amps, AcousticDesign and WideLine loudspeakers.
For more select gatherings of ministers and officials, this 150-seat chamber was used, boasting AcousticDesign and K Series Active loudspeakers.
Systems Integration Asia August - September 2012
INSTALLATIONS
Symetrix Jupiter Processor features at the Tai O Heritage Hotel System Designer Sound Classy hails Symetrix app features of divergent apps, so too the Jupiter can turn into any number of quite divergent signal processors. Users simply upload an “app” appropriate for a particular sound-processing situation, and the Jupiter configures itself appropriately. Sound Classy specified the “Sound Reinforcement 10” app, which possesses all of the necessary routing logic necessary and signal processing (including FIR filters) for Tai O Lookout. The addition of a simple Symetrix ARC2e wall panel remote allows restaurant staff to select the input and to adjust volumes within the different zones. “No other processor is so easy to set up, so great sounding, and so affordable as the Symetrix Jupiter,” said Him Chan, system designer at Sound Classy. “Not only was it simple to find and install the correct app, it was easy to dial in the correct settings on the FIR filters. The hotel owners and the restaurant staff are very happy with the sound and its operation.”
Tai O Exterior
Tai O is a traditional fishing village on the west coast of Lantau Island, Hong Kong. An agreeable counterpoint to the bustle of the city, Tai O offers visitors a peaceful escape with all the charms of traditional village culture. Recently, Tai O Heritage Hotel restored the village’s 100-year old police station to its full architectural splendour, cleverly adding posh modern amenities without overwhelming the building’s tasteful minimalist aesthetic. Among those amenities is Tai O Lookout, the hotel’s fine dining restaurant, which affords patrons a scenic view from the top of the building. In keeping with the Tai O Heritage’s elegant atmosphere, Hong Kong-based A/V designer Sound Classy Holding Limited gave the restaurant a high-fidelity sound system based on the Symetrix Jupiter 8 turnkey signal processor and the Symetrix ARC2e user interface. Sound Classy worked directly with Sanecore Audio Ltd, Symetrix’ distributor in Hong Kong.
input side of the Symetrix Jupiter 8, which accepts both mic- and line-level signals. Australian Monitor XA Series amplifiers power the distributed loudspeaker system across four separate zones, each with independent volume control. Fulcrum Acoustics Prophile series “P” loudspeakers convey the input source with an honesty and intimacy befitting the Tai O Lookout’s elegant décor. The Symetrix Jupiter series processors possess a design topology inspired by Smartphone “app” paradigm. Just as a Smartphone can turn into any number of quite divergent tools with the application
www.symetrix.co
Tai O Wall panel
Sound Classy designed the system to be intuitive for the restaurant staff to operate. At the same time, the system’s processor had to be capable of properly implementing the FIR filters needed for Fulcrum Acoustics loudspeakers, which Sound Classy had specified for their unique ability to blend visually into the architecture of a space. SCHOT Ltd. A/V integration company installed the system at Tai O Lookout, which covers the restaurant itself, as well as the adjoining outdoor balcony. A few wireless microphones join a CD player and an iPod docking station at the
Tai O Interior
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INSTALLATIONS
Queensland University Of Technology relies on HARMAN’s AKG DMS700 Digital Wireless Microphones AKG’s DMS700 addresses issues related to overcrowded bandwidth and completely eliminating interference
In need of a technology upgrade for its lecture halls, which host more than 50,000 students during the academic year, Australia’s Queensland University of Technology’s (QUT) Audiovisual Projects Department installed a campuswide digital wireless solution to replace its existing analogue system. Supported by Len Lotz and Shane Palmer of Videopro, the Queenslandbased technology integrator, QUT now has more than 400 educational spaces across multiple buildings channelled with HARMAN’s AKG DMS700 digital wireless solution.
which put constant stress on the channels and brought interference to lectures throughout campus. Recently, with a decision to advance campus technology and expand the CBD area, QUT required additional channels of wireless, which could not be supported by their previous analogue system. AKG’s DMS700 was selected, as it offered a tactical answer, addressing all of the issues related to overcrowded bandwidth and completely eliminating interference. DMS700’s ultra-wide tuning range also offered the greatest degree of flexibility to work around uncertain frequency allocations in the future, as the Australian government redistributes allocations of UHF spectrum.
“The lecture halls and teaching spaces have improved, in terms of the audio clarity and reliability, dramatically with the integration of AKG’s DMS700 wireless system,” stated John Vikstrom, QUT. “AKG and its Australian distributor, Audio Products Group, were instrumental in this installation, working tirelessly with Videopro and QUT’s AV team to design a complete system that would span the entire campus and offer user friendly ability for the professors in each room.”
AKG’s DMS700 is designed to deliver the highest quality and operability to users. DMS700 allowed QUT to provide a significantly larger number of channels, in addition to the clarity and reliability of the digital signal. Its quick and easy setup allows anyone within the university, from the technical team, to professors and students to easily turn on and distribute their audio throughout QUT.
“QUT is pleased with the AKG system, as the improvement is clearly heard when in a room that was previously plagued with interference,” said Lotz. “AKG’s work on producing a university-wide frequency allocation plan allows QUT to take a holistic approach to managing its entire fleet of wireless microphones.”
QUT’s wireless channels were already crowded, nearly reaching its capacity,
With the project continuing into 2012, Videopro and Audio Products Group, have already deployed more than 300 channels for QUT.
www.akg.com www.videopro.com.au www.audioproducts.com.au
BXB PA system installed at SMA Negeri 2 School PT. Offistarindo Adhiprima installs the system The SMA Negeri 2 school located in the capital of Indonesia, Jakarta is an ISO 9001: 2008 approved school. The school required an efficient yet user-friendly PA system for the whole campus and turned to PT. Offistarindo Adhiprima to offer a solution. Offistarindo’s Chief Engineer Ali conducted all the planning and execution of the project. In the planning process, Ali was concerned about system stability, user-friendliness, sound quality and adaptation to Jakarta’s weather - hot and humid tropical monsoon climate. Ali decided that the best solution that met all his requirements was the BXB WMP-2100 series that included the highquality two-way speaker that is SGS IP66 water/dust-proof approved. The BXB PA system met the school’s requirement of single-zone, group and whole campus broadcast. Through userfriendly intuitive operation, teachers
could quickly get started. In addition, with the use of graphical software, the school set automatic music timer
schedule to ring the bell, saving human resource like never before. www.bxb.tw
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Systems Integration Asia August - September 2012
VOICE BOX
Tribute to
Dr. Randal A.Lemke Systems Integration Asia pays tribute to Dr. Randal A. Lemke, Ph.D Executive Director and CEO of InfoComm International who will be retiring on 31st December 2012. Dr. Lemke has steered the Association magnificently over some very trying years and as Jim Ford, Chairman of the Leadership Development Committee and Past President of the Board testifies, “Randy’s leadership has taken us from being primarily a dealer trade association, to a global industry association for the entire AV value chain.” This, amongst his many achievements for the Association. We had the opportunity to sit with Dr. Lemke whilst at InfoComm China in April for a little tête-a-tete.
Great Opportunity...Great Staff... Great Industry. That sums up Dr. Lemke’s feelings of his past 12 years as the Executive Director and CEO of InfoComm International. To think that it all started off as a pure coincidence was a blessing for the Association. In his early years, Dr. Lemke was a College professor of instructional technology and had visited the InfoComm trade shows and thus was pretty much aware of InfoComm. Later he had become a College administrator for distance education programmes and was looking for video conferencing solutions. That was 15 years ago. He collaborated with a good friend of his, Dr. Richard Dressner, who was at the time the head of InfoComm’s Educational Communications Foundation, to seek ways to get federal grants to develop college distance education program to train AV professionals. Whilst there he met the then Executive Director of InfoComm, Walt Blackwell, who turned the discussion into a job interview. That interview saw Dr. Lemke being appointed the Vice President for Education at InfoComm in September 1996. “When I arrived, there was no distance learning, we had nothing on the Web, we had a limited number of seminars being held at the InfoComm Show in the US and there was the Institute for Professional Development catering to a small number of participants. I came to work on the whole programme, introducing distance learning and building up the seminar programmes with international emphasis. I recall we had to raise funds for the online programme and we attracted donations from Sony, Panasonic, Christie and other big players and we managed to raise about a million dollars that we used to created a dedicated and proper online programme.” Within nine months of his appointment, in June 1997, the first online course was announced. “In 1997 there was no Flash (Adobe), not enough bandwidth and people were still using dial ups and it was slow. So our online programme comprised mainly text for questions and information. When it came to heavy graphics or videos, participants would pull it off a CD-ROM!” exclaims Dr. Lemke. Interestingly the first course is a course that is still taught till today – The Essentials of AV. “We had our challenges. People had to think whether to learn and take the test online or not and that took awhile. But now companies see it as a
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Systems Integration Asia August - September 2012
Two things happened – we brought people to a focal point which creates more attention whereby we can do more things. What we did was budgeting for it. Exhibitions help us generate funds which allows us to do things so we segregated the international exhibitions into its own budget so that the services provided in that respective country or region is paid for by that exhibition. It was one of the best budgeting decisions that I did. We did not want members to feel that someone else is benefiting from their membership dues and exhibition revenue.”
viable option and also as main stay – if you want to get hired you need to take that course.” As VP of Education, Dr. Lemke also quickly looked into certifications and instituted programmes as well as increased the number of seminars in the trade shows. “We did our first international professional development certificate in Sydney, Australia in January 1997 that saw 65 to 70 attendees. We were obviously pleased with the turn out.” As the Education aspect of the Association grew, more manpower was brought in. “Two of our hires, Lou Nanni and Melissa Taggaert were really at the core of building up the education programmes. Our first staff trainer was Scott Wills in 2000 and now we have five full time trainers around the world and a large education and certification staff to support them.” In June 2000 with the retirement of Walt Blackwell, Dr. Lemke was appointed interim Executive Director and in December 2000 became the Association’s Executive Director taking on full responsibility for trade shows, international programmes, education programmes, membership and certification. So, we asked Dr. Lemke what he felt was his highest achievement. “If I could, I would like to highlight a couple. One, I would say was taking on the responsibility to help prepare the industry for its future. It was already under-way when I came – it was really to help people and companies to do the transition from box sellers to system integrators and in order to do that it took education and certifications. It was about trying to make SIs more capable
no matter where they are, towards now what we are talking about – Net-centric education. When we started, the industry was not connected to the network it was mainly analogue technologies – now we are looking at the future. That mission to help the industry transform is what I am really proud of.” “The other is our international programme where I hope one day we are viewed as a global organisation. We want to be truly international and not just in name. Many associations will have international members and consider themselves international but getting their resources from North America. We are bringing our services from North America to the respective regions. We try to create more local service origination where members meet up and do more things that are unique to their culture. But to make the international aspect work it really took the international exhibitions.
If you could wish that you had accomplished something before retiring what would it be? “If I could snap my fingers and move time, I would love to see our member companies figure out where they are going to be in a network environment. How are they going to live with it and compete with other players and I think it is still unclear. Are they going to play with or against IT. If you look at the analogue world, all the switching and signal management was part of the AV World – what is going to happen to signal distribution as we go more and more onto the network, where IT is the owner – we have an opportunity to become a part of the network – but not just get by instead to become the provider of visual and audio solutions in the network realm. Additionally, the AV industry is the only one concerned about the room not the IT or Telecom people. We are the ones concerned about the acoustics working, the lighting working and all that. Those are skills that are unique to us – so while we may not own the network, we need to own the end points of the network in the room. That transition is going to happen one way or another. I just wish it would happen quickly.”
Systems Integration Asia August - September 2012
VOICE BOX
In addition to initiating online education at InfoComm International, other highlights of Dr. Lemke’s legacy with InfoComm International include: *An extensive international expansion, launching audiovisual exhibitions, events and education around the world, including Europe, Asia, Middle East, Oceania and Latin America. This expansion has contributed to InfoComm International’s current worldwide membership, representing over 80 countries, as well as increasing the Association’s size to nearly 120 employees in eight countries. *Establishment of the CTS® certifications (CTS, CTS-D and CTS-I), accredited by ANSI under the ISO/IEC 17024 standard. These certifications are recognized worldwide as the leading audiovisual specialist credentials. *Leading the development of industry best practices and InfoComm’s ANSI/ISO standards which raised the bar on the AV industry.
Net-centric, as many of you know has been a passionate subject for Dr. Lemke and he has over the last year or so continued to preach on this matter. In his job capacity, Dr. Lemke travelled quite a bit so we asked him to name three destinations that he really enjoyed. “I love Italy. You can put me in any place in Italy and I will enjoy it. We, as an organisation do not do have a big presence there but we do have members. I also love Bangkok and Hong Kong.” “My work has given me the opportunity to travel to Asia, Europe and South America. I have done sight seeing but what I feel is more enriching is unlike a Tourist, we actually have relationships. By doing business we get an introduction to their culture and way of working and that to me is something you do not experience as a Tourist.” What about cuisines? “My most memorable meal was in Moscow. The meal was based upon a Siberian
expedition. All the food served was what you would find in the expedition. Different kinds of meat, fish and of course vodka. It was most interesting. It was a normal restaurant, nothing fancy and it happened during our first Moscow show.” Dr. Lemke adds, “As far as best cuisines are concerned I would say my preference is for either French or Italian.” So what are your plans after retirement? “The first thing is that on the third week of January 2013, my wife and I have a two week trip to Africa to enjoy a game park safari. In general we plan to spend a lot of time on our boat. We would love to live on-board our boat 4 to 5 months a year travelling up and down the east coast of the US and perhaps even to Europe.” We wish Dr. Lemke well and thank him for guiding the Association and consolidating its efforts for the betterment of the industry.
*Advancing the creation of the STEP Foundation, focused on encouraging sustainability to the process of planning, designing, integrating and operating technology systems, as well as reducing long-term environmental impact from technology deployment. *Introduction of several industry reference volumes -- starting with the revision to the 1983, Basics of Audio Video Design, to the recent publication of McGraw Hill’s CTS Exam Guide, these books helped establish InfoComm International as the authority of the AV industry. *Important acquisitions including the NSCA Expo and their share of Integrated System Events, as well as AV Avenue, now known as InfoComm iQ. *Launching of new trade shows in Amsterdam, Beijing, Hong Kong, Dubai, Mexico City, Columbia, Moscow, and Sydney as well as continuing to grow InfoComm International in the US.
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AMX Asia Pacific
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+65.6846.7960
• Lighting Automation • Security Access • Home Theatre • Multi-room Audio & Video • Intercom & Phone Systems • HVAC & Shade Control • Energy Management
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