Systems Integration Asia January-December 2013

Vol. 12 Issue 2 ~ December - January 2013

AUDIO • VISUAL • LIGHT • CONTROL SYSTEMS MICA (P) 017/04/2012 PPS 1669/08/2013 (022992)

Is Your Conference Room Future-Proof?

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STEP IN TO THE FUTURE WITH KRAMER’S SID-X1 DIGITAL STEP-IN™ COMMANDER WINNER OF THE 2012 SYSTEMS PRODUCT OF THE YEAR AV AWARD

The SID-X1 multi-format Step-in commander is compatible with both analog and digital video and audio signals. Specifically, the SID-X1 supports analog computer graphics video, HDMI, DVI, DisplayPort and unbalanced stereo audio signals.

Style Technology at the Sofitel SO Bangkok Crestron Asia continues growth momentum with seamless solutions InfoComm MEA 2012 Review

Photo courtesy of Sofitel So Hotel Bangkok Photo courtesy of Sofitel So Hotel Bangkok

WWW.KRAMERASIA.COM

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Step In To The Future With Kramer’s Digital Step-in™ system

Future-Proof Your Boardroom The Kramer Digital Step-in system is designed to bring flexibility and versatility to your boardroom or presentation suite. This system allows you to connect easily to the display device from any source with any major video interface.

The system comprises a switcher and up to eight Step-in modules connected by one twisted pair cable, with two additional local inputs (DVI, HDMI).

It allows each user to connect their video source to the display by pressing the Step-in button on their individual Step-in module. Modules are offered in HDMI, DVI, DisplayPort and 15-pin HD computer graphics video, all with separate audio input. An additional multi-format module, SID-X1, combines all the video interfaces, making your system extremely adaptable.

Step in to the future with Kramer’s new Digital Step-in system!

www.kramerasia.com

Tel: + 65 6274 4474 Fax: + 65 6274 4414

© 2012 Kramer Electronics Ltd. All rights reserved.

Vol. 12 Issue 2 ~ December - January 2013

AUDIO • VISUAL • LIGHT • CONTROL SYSTEMS MICA (P) 017/04/2012 PPS 1669/08/2013 (022992)

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Style Technology at the Sofitel SO Bangkok Crestron Asia continues growth momentum with seamless solutions InfoComm MEA 2012 Review Photo courtesy of Sofitel So Hotel Bangkok

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 91

58

82 04 FIRST WORDS

48 India’s first Tannoy Q Fle 32 at the Swaminarayan Mandir

06 NEWS EXHIBITION PREVIEW 18 ISE 2013 20 SOLUTIONS UPDATE

Vol. 12 Issue 2 ~ December - January 2013

EXHIBITION REVIEW 50 Houses of Worship Technologies Asia 2012 58 InfoComm MEA 2012

82 Singapore – ETH Centre features collaborative wall 84 Hewshott International delivers digital signage history at Perth Arena 86 Lighting Up Hope Church

INDIA & MIDDLE EAST COLUMN 34 News

TECH TALK 70 Essentials of Green AV by Kuldip Kamat

VOICE BOX 88 Crestron Asia continues its growth momentum with seamless solutions

Interview 44 Koichi Kubota, Director and Chief Executive , Visual Operations Divison, Epson

INSTALLATIONS 71 Vichai Trading (1983) integrates Sofitel So Hotel

91 Jumping for AV Joy by Ravi M, RST Technology Holdings Pte Ltd

78 Vega Technology integrates state-of-theart AV solutons at the University of Hong Kong

94 A Tata Communications ‘Formula’ to be ‘One’

Installation 46 Bosch Solutions at Vidya Pratishthan University’s GaDiMa auditorium

80 AMX IPTV at the Special Governor Office in Jakarta

04

FIRST WORDS SSystems Integration Asia December - January 2013

Singapore AV Consultants caught off guard

COVER: Sofitel SO Bangkok OUR TEAM PUBLISHER / EDITORIAL DIRECTOR Thomas Richard Prakasam thomas@spinworkz.com INDIA AND MIDDLE EAST EDITOR Ram Bhavanashi ram@spinworkz.com WRITERS Rosalind Tan rosalind@spinworkz.com Elissa Nadine elissa@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 Stamford Press 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.

A recent posting at the Singapore government official tender site caught AV consultants by surprise. Tenders were sought from suitably qualified companies for the supply of Audio Visual (AV) Consultancy. This is in relation to the Ministry of National Development shifting its offices to a new location in the west.

There has hardly been any tender for AV consultants in Singapore with most of the AV consultants coming in more on a sub-level of the main contractor. Un-confirmed sources said that only four consultancy companies sent in their proposals as most were caught unaware. Hopefully this will be the start of government ministries in Singapore valuing AV as an independent and integral part of effective systems integration.

USD35 Media Player?

Most of you might have already heard and read about the Raspberry Pi computer.

I got the opportunity to see it – it is remarkable. It does not look pretty but for USD35.00 it gets its job done. It can be purchased online at Element14.

The Raspberry Pi came about because The Raspberry Pi Foundation, a British non-profit organisation, decided that in order to get kids interested in computer programming it had to make the computer accessible and really cheap so that programming experimentation will not be be a costly issue. For the full story on the people behind Raspberry Pi and their objectives do visit www.raspberrypi.org The Raspberry Pi is a computer that contains a tiny circuit board with a 700MHz ARMII processor and 512MB of SDRAM space (Model B). It also features a memory card slot, 2 USB ports and a HDMI connection and graphics that supports OpenGL. It runs on a Linux operating system and is powered via a micro USB power supply and features 10/100 Ethernet connection.

The HDMI supports full HD 1080p with H.264 video playback which means it has the potential to be be a media player for digital signage solutions. There is already a group of enthusiasts who are working on the Raspberry Pi as a digital signage solution. With digital signage, or rather, I prefer what some call it, digital communications becoming ubiquitous across all industries, the Raspberry Pi has the possibility of playing a role in the segment. If you would like to share your thoughts on this do write to me.

Thomas Richard Prakasam Publisher/Editorial Director

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NEWS Systems Integration Asia December - January 2013

Mitsubishi Electric and T.O Group hold successful product seminar in Phnom Penh Their commercial grade public display LCD monitors showcased live video conference and digital signage solution that are popular in Cambodia market.

Getting good attention amongst their products was the Mitsubishi Electric 2x2 55 inch super narrow bezel LCD display wall with front access capability. It caught the interest of many participants due to its high image resolution and easy access maintenance. The 4 screens allow multiple windows to be open and shifted within them and are able to show both direct video input and digital files.

CAMBODIA: Mitsubishi Electric Asia Pte Ltd, Visual Imaging Division held a very successful product seminar in Phnom Penh with its Cambodia distributor, T.O Group Co., Ltd in NagaWorld Hotel on 24th October 2012.

It was the first joint-seminar organised by both companies. Mitsubishi Electric’s Visual Imaging Division saw the potential market in Cambodia and decided to establish distributorship with T.O Group to leverage on each other’s strengths and strive for a win-win business collaboration.

Despite the risk of poor turn-out due to the demise of the former Cambodia King, Norodom Sihanouk, Mitsubishi Electric and T.O Group decided to go ahead with the seminar just a day after the mourning period. Both parties felt the many interesting featured products would attract customers and system integrators.

To everyone’s pleasant surprise, the product seminar response was overwhelming with nearly 200 participants attending against their planned headcount of 150 participants.

These participants came from diverse industries like designer houses, network system integrators, banks, hotels, retail, information technology and also government agencies.

T.O Group's President, Chamroeun Heng kicked off the event with his opening address followed by Mitsubishi Electric’s Visual Imaging Division, Senior General Manager, Naohiro Sato's speech. Product presentations about the product line-up, advertising strategies, promotional activities, market situation and successful case studies of site installations were also covered by Mitsubishi Electric’s Sales Managers.

Displayed products included projectors, public display monitors, super narrow bezel and professional photo printers.

Mitsubishi Electric took the opportunity to showcase their projectors with 4-in-1 LAN display, edge blending function, 3D home cinema projection and interactivity, which is targeted at the Education sector.

Last but not least, Mitsubishi Electric’s professional photo system and printer were demonstrated. It delighted many participants with its superior print out quality and performance. The participants were able to collect their instant photograph prints that were generated within seconds.

Registered participants were treated to a sumptuous dinner with entertainment performances. Three lucky participants walked home with prizes won from the lucky draw; a Mitsubishi Electric projector and two units of 1TB hard disk.

Mitsubishi Electric and T.O Group intend to continue to organise such significant seminars to further promote Visual Imaging products to more participants. www.mitsubishielectric.com.sg

SmartView Duo is the perfect compact SDI rack monitoring system for post production, broadcast or live events. It features two beautiful 8” LCD screens which can be remotely adjusted via ethernet. It even includes tally.

What’s more, it easily handles SD, HD and 3 Gb/s SDI video formats.

SDI monitoring everywhere you need it SmartView Duo lets you build your own master control room to monitor all cameras for live production. Use it in editing desks to display all your video sources. Incredibly compact, it’s also great for broadcast vans. You can even install SmartView Duo into portable monitor racks to build lightweight flyaway kits.

Greater SDI compatibility You can rely on SmartView Duo to support multiple SDI video standards, including SD, HD and 3 Gb/s SDI formats. It was designed to meet the needs of both broadcast and post production professionals. On top of this,it supports advanced video formats like 1080p HD and 2K SDI. Mount it anywhere in racks SmartView Duo can be mounted anywhere in equipment racks, even in the extreme top. That’s because SmartView Duo rotates completely upside down for optimum viewing angle. It will instantly sense the screen rotation and automatically flip the images without any need for adjustment.

Intelligent Ethernet control Forget about using little screwdrivers in an attempt to match all your monitors. Now you can conveniently adjust and match every monitor remotely from your laptop or desktop. Simply connect SmartView Duo to your ethernet network and use the included Mac or PC software.

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08

NEWS SSystems Integration Asia December - January 2013

First FBT Vertus MLA digital/mechanical steerable line array installed in Thailand mechanical steerable line array; 2 sets of EvoMaxX 4a active speaker systems and 2 sets of SubLINE 18Sa active subwoofers.

The turnkey project was delivered in mid August 2012 with the university management greatly appreciative of the sound quality of the systems installed and more importantly meeting their demanding expectations.

(L-R): Saengchai Chavanaittinant of Star Electronic Sales and Services Co Ltd with FBT’s export manager Roberto Mataloni

THAILAND: Phranakhon Rajabhat University of Bangkok’s new building comprising teaching rooms and conference room was officially opened at the end of October 2012. The new building cost more than 32 million USD and FBT’s Thailand Distributor, Star Electronic Sales and Services Co. Ltd, was awarded the contract to install FBT professional sound systems in the auditorium/conference room in this building. The system selected for the installation consists of 2 sets of Vertus MLA608a and MLA801a digital/

Star Electronic and FBT have jointly collaborated to the optimal success of this project. The Phranakhon Rajabhat University of Bangkok have already informed Star Electronic about the next project that will include more FBT professional audio products.

Ltd, the FBT Thai distributor adds: “when we were asked to study the best sound solution for this auditorium, we immediately worked out the most appropriate system configuration with FBT in Italy and together we are quite proud of the good work done. Most of all the University management have been truly satisfied with the sound quality of the Vertus MLA. It’s very probable that we will be involved in a few more projects.” www.fbt.it www.starelectronic.co.th

“It’s a great start for our Vertus MLA digital/mechanical line array. We could have not asked for a better project to prove the qualities and feature of this amazing sound system,” said FBT’s export manager Roberto Mataloni, “the Bangkok Phranakhon Rajabhat is a beautiful, brand new university where soon thousands of students will flock around and its large auditorium is simply perfect with the MLAs.” Saengchai Chavanaittinant, VP of sales of Star Electronic Sales & Services Co.

Chief showcases its interactive solutions in HK Learning & Teaching Expo 2012 HONG KONG: Learning & Teaching Expo is the premier educational annual event in Asia-Pacific where teachers and schools are able to discover the latest resources and learning technology. Chief took the opportunity to participate at the event and showcased its latest interactive solutions which can create optimal learning environments for today’s students. Chief’s interactive

solutions transforms any existing projectors, flat panel TVs and whiteboards which are already in place in schools into an interactive solution and offers an economical and long-term approach toward interactive classrooms in the market. www.chiefmfg.com

10

NEWS SSystems Integration Asia December - January 2013

Sennheiser Electronic Asia unveils growth plans to be Leading Audio Solutions Provider Managing Director, Sennheiser Asia. “In the last three years, we had expanded our sales channels and brand presence, reinforced our leadership positioning, and almost doubled our sales. We are confident that we are on track to meet our aspirations.”

(L-R) Ng Chee Soon, President and Managing Director of Sennheiser Asia along with Paul Whiting, President of Global Sales and Daniel Sennheiser, President of Strategy and Finance of Sennheiser Electronic GmbH & co.

SINGAPORE: Amidst celebrating 20 years of presence and growth in Asia, this year, Sennheiser Electronic Asia (“Sennheiser Asia”), has outlined a fiveyear strategic plan aimed at achieving a double-digit compounded annual sales growth from 2013 to 2017. This includes accelerating growth in its Developing Markets (Malaysia, Indonesia, Thailand, Vietnam and the Philippines) from 2013 to 2017 and establishing leadership position in Singapore and South Korea by 2017.

“Our plan is an ambitious one, but we are optimistic of realising our goals,” said Ng Chee Soon, President and

Under this plan, the company will focus on four major growth commitments:

To lead and shape the audio market in Singapore and South Korea: Singapore and South Korea are currently Sennheiser Asia’s largest markets in terms of revenue. The company aims to become the number one audio solution brand in both markets by expanding sales and marketing resources; enhancing aftersales engagements and support; and establishing thought leadership in key areas such as digital audio, service and anti-counterfeit efforts.

To expand Sennheiser Asia’s footprint in Developing Markets through investments in Go-to-market activities and partner collaborations especially in second-tier cities and opening up new concept stores, concept corners

and other retail points-of-presence. The company currently has concept stores in Singapore, Malaysia, Philippines, Cambodia and Vietnam.

To develop solution-based products and services: Sennheiser Asia will work closely with its partner ecosystem to provide one-stop-shop services including consulting services and customised vertical solutions To enhance the company’s competitiveness and strengthen growth foundation: Sennheiser Asia will invest in employee and partner training and development; and will focus on improving business processes, productivity and efficiency.

“Sennheiser is constantly looking to shape the audio world,” said Mr Ng. “This is an ambition that we hold dearly to and we believe that we will be able to achieve this through our history, our culture of innovation and our passion for excellence. It is in our company DNA to pursue the perfect sound, to ensure that sound comes alive for our users. This is our vision and we hope to celebrate our success with our partners and customers in more years to come.” www.sennhieserasia.com

E&E's Ronald Goh wins Asia Pacific Outstanding Entrepreneurship Award 2012 SINGAPORE: Ronald Goh, Managing Director of Electronics & Engineering Pte Ltd was named Outstanding Entrepreneur at an event organized by Enterprise Asia and APF Group and held at the Marina Bay Sands.

As the most prestigious program for Enterprises in the region, the award is in recognition of the Industry's best and most deserving, honouring business leaders who have shown outstanding performance and tenacity in developing successful businesses within the region.

“I'm honoured to accept this award and would like to thank all my staff for their dedication and commitment to run the extra mile,” said Mr Goh. This award gives recognition also to the commitment we have to our partners, principals and customers. Our best credentials are our satisfied customers, and it is most gratifying to receive this award here at Marina Bay Sands, where E&E provided much of the major audio systems throughout this entire facility,” continued Ronald.

Ronald Goh, receiving his award from Guest of Honour, Mr. Seah Kian Peng, CEO, NTUC Fairprice Co-operative Ltd & Member of Parliament, Marine Parade GRC. Also present was Mr. William Ng, President, Enterprise Asia

12

NEWS SSystems Integration Asia December - January 2013

Christie MicroTiles to liven up China Construction Bank headquarters A large amount of data and constant real-time information demand a display with HD image quality, reliability, and durability, while the special light environment of the Command Center calls for higher brightness. The large screen size further poses a stringent requirement on the convenience of installation and maintenance. All these present a great challenge to display solution providers.

CHINA: Christie® will enliven China Construction Bank (CCB) Beijing Data Center’s Command Center with a 29-meter wide by 0.9-meter high video wall using 216 Christie® MicroTiles®. Set in a 3 units by 72 units array, the Christie MicroTiles will go into full-fledged operation before the Spring Festival in 2013.

“Christie MicroTiles are just the customer’s best choice,” said Guang Yang, General Manager of HiteVision who directed the project. “CCB headquarters is limited on space and Christie MicroTiles, with their compact footprint, perfectly meet their needs.

With the additional benefits of high brightness, richness of colour, reliability, and easy maintenance, Christie MicroTiles seem tailor-made for the project.”

Built on proven DLP® technology and specifically designed for maximum image quality in high-ambient light environments, Christie MicroTiles are the next frontier of display technology. With the unique advantages of rear projection and LED technology, the MicroTiles are superior to conventional LCD and plasma displays in terms of brightness of images and richness of colour.

“I’m very pleased that CCB is satisfied with its visual display solution of Christie MicroTiles and that with its unique qualities has met the requirements of the installation,” said Lin Yu, Vice President, Christie Asia Pacific. “It signifies that MicroTiles have won further recognition of the market. We hope the product will benefit more customers in China in the near future.” www.christiedigital.com

Adam Crookes joins Hewshott as Associate Director ASIA-PACIFIC: The board of Directors of Hewshott International are delighted to announce that Adam Crookes has been appointed as Associate Director in AsiaPac. Adam has overall management of Hewshott’s Singapore and Hong Kong offices and is tasked with driving revenue whilst retaining the quality, integrity and high calibre customer relationship that is synonymous with Hewshott.

He comes to Hewshott with many years’ experience at the delivery end of large and complex audio visual systems throughout both Australia and Singapore.

“I am delighted to join Hewshott and am looking forward to the challenge of taking the company to the next level within AsiaPac. Hewshott’s Singapore and Hong Kong offices have the highest reputation and I am thrilled to be tasked with leading the firm to the next stage. I am looking forward to building on the company’s reputation of providing current and future clients with an independent and often innovative solution to their requirements,” said Adam.

Peter Hunt, Hewshott’s CEO adds: “Adam’s knowledge of the audio visual industry and of the local requirements in the region make him the ideal candidate for this role, and we are delighted to welcome him to the company.

Adam has a pivotal role to play in the strategic growth of the company and I am confident he will slot into our team seamlessly. This completes our restructuring worldwide and we now have a very strong leadership team..”

Adam can be reached at Tel:+65 6827 4595 or email AdamC@Hewshott.com www.hewshott.com

14

NEWS SSystems Integration Asia December - January 2013

Barix IP Audio Solutions at Australian Securities Exchange AUSTRALIA: The Australian Securities Exchange has simplified and enhanced the way it broadcasts stock information to subscribed traders, replacing an ageing analogue infrastructure with a new digital announcement system using Barix IP audio products. The upgrade allows ASX Group, the overarching brand responsible for a diverse range of Australian business market service activities, to record and deliver stock announcements to more traders with better efficiency.

ASX Group has gradually transitioned its audio delivery infrastructure from expensive leased line and copper circuit connections to an IP streaming solution. The initial phase added centralized streaming servers to deliver stock announcements to customer locations, where Barix Exstreamer 100 IP audio devices received and decoded announcements for traders.

The latest phase focuses on the central announcement system, replacing large, multi-seat analog announcement consoles with modern single-seat consoles to reduce system size and complexity. ADTEC Communications, the console manufacturer and systems integrator, incorporated Barix Annuncicom 1000 IP audio devices for control and streaming functionality.

Supplied by Australian distributor Lan 1, the Barix offering simplifies the entire record and transmission process for stock announcements. Foremost, it reduces the number of distinct audio destination channels from each ADTEC Communications console from twelve to two (one channel for internal and one for external destinations). The Annuncicom 1000 also includes inputs and outputs to integrate with existing analog recorders and digital streaming servers — offering a clear path to a digital recording environment.

Australian Securities Exchange network administrators can control all Annuncicom 1000 record and transmission paths from the new consoles via an integrated, easy-to-use web panel. This simplifies administration of the overall system, reducing labour and operational complexities associated with the previous system.

“Barix helped us develop a unique, custom audio solution that integrates existing technologies with cutting-edge digital solutions that ASX Group can use with efficiency today and expand moving forward,” said Jon Bolton, Director, ADTEC Communications. Bolton added that he is working with Barix to develop a multicast solution for ASX Group to expand network distribution capabilities moving forward — essentially allowing subscribers to “opt in” for specific announcements. www.barix.com

AV Resources poised to take the lead in AV/IT Distribution Business Conference Systems, Kramer Switchers, Alioscopy 3D display systems and more. Recently, the company took on further distribution representing Vaddio, ONELAN, VBrick, Liberty and Intelix, making AV Resources one of the most comprehensive AV/IT distributors in Asia Pacific region.

Joseph Mak, CTS, Regional Sales Director of AV Resources

HONG KONG: AV Resources is a technology distributor for the Audio & Visual and Information Technology industries. The company has long been the distributor of LG professional Monitors, Promethean Interactive Whiteboards, Revolabs Audio

“We are not just a distributor, but also a one-stop service provider in Asia, providing project spec-in, presales consultation as well as full range technical support to our channels.” said Joseph Mak, CTS, Regional Sales Director of AV Resources. “At the same time, AV Resources has started to expand over the Asia Pacific region, and our current coverage has been extended to nearly every corner in Asia

Pacific including China, Japan, Korea, Singapore, India, Malaysia, Vietnam, Taiwan. With such an extensive network, it is no doubt that AV Resources will become the most reliable partner in the APAC.” To reflect its coverage area and expanded business scope in the AV/ IT distribution business, the URL of AV Resources has been renamed as http:// www.avr-asia.com.

Following the official launch in early December 2012, AV Resources will organize a series of certified training courses for the SI/resellers, and the program will be extended to other Asian countries in the near future. www.avr-asia.com

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16

NEWS Systems Integration Asia December - January 2013

Integrated Media install DIS at Adelaide City Council AUSTRALIA: Professional Audio Technology Pty Ltd recently delivered two large DIS (Danish Interpretation System) systems to Integrated Media for the installation at Adelaide City Council.

Adelaide based Integration company and acoustical specialist Integrated Media installed one DIS system for the Adelaide City Council Chamber, consisting of a CU6005 Central controller unit, 1 x DC6990P chairman unit with touch screen controls and 18 delegate conferencing units, plus two hand held microphones for speakers in the public gallery. A second virtually identical DIS system was installed into the Adelaide City Committee Room.

Adelaide City Council – Capital Works and Infrastructure Project Manager – Josh Axton expressed his appreciation to Integrated Media “…for a job well done.

I am extremely impressed with not only the DIS system Integrated Media have

provided but also the way they have gone about the installation.”

Integrated Media Project Director John Matheson commented on the DIS technology “I am very pleased with the audio quality of the DIS System, both through the desk stations and the attached PA speakers. It’s all very stable, clear and intelligible – actually quite transparent.”

Close cooperation between Professional Audio Technology and Integrated Media assured that all technical and delivery timelines were met. Kim Muurholm Jürgensen – DIS Sales Manager Asia Pacific was most pleased with the announcement. “DIS is delighted that we are winning such prestigious jobs with our technology, which is due to the outstanding local work of Integrated Media who were responsible for the installation and our distributor Professional Audio Technology.”

More and more high profile Australian venues are choosing Danish Interpretation System (DIS) as their preferred conferencing solution including recent purchases by Newcastle University, the Queensland Parliament and now of course the Adelaide City Council. www.proaudiotechnology.com.au www.dis.cc www.integrated-media.com

Manulife Centre Singapore uses Audio-Technica microphones with 4 x MS-209BK Boom Stand, 2 x ES915SC18 18” Gooseneck Microphones with switch are installed in the meeting rooms on the 11th floor. The key product feature of the ES915SC Gooseneck microphone is the microphone switch.

With the switch on the microphone, it gives users a friendly interface yet unique design for the end-users.

(L-R) Teng Shaokai (S.K.) from AudioTechnica with Brigitte Yeo of NETe2 Asia and Lok of Manulife Centre SINGAPORE: Manulife Centre Singapore is now fully equipped with Audio-Technica microphones. AudioTechnica was chosen for the superb audio quality and also its sleek aesthetic design. A total of 4 x PRO41 Handheld Microphones (with 4.5m cable) together

A series of wireless microphones were also placed in the training room on the 5th level of the Manulife Centre. The microphones are 4 x ATW-3141b and 3 x ATW2120a, accompanied by 3 x ATW310b and 3 x ATW-T210b wireless belt packs and 1 x ATW-DA49 UHF Antenna Distribution System. Last but not least, they have also installed 11 x ES947 Cardioid Condenser Boundary Microphones in the board room on the 9th floor.

Mr Lok, Manager of Facilities Management, commented that “there is significant audio improvement, especially for the Boardroom after the new microphones were installed. There is increased clarity in the audio and no RF interference with the wireless.”

Brigitte Yeo, Account Manager, of NETe2 Asia, the supplier and systems integrator for the project, added,“Audio-Technica is a reliable recognized brand with good quality and price to performance ratio. The full range of Audio-Technica products has allowed NETe2 to plan better for projects and substitute products if needed to suit the customers’ requirements.” www.audio-technica.com.sg www.nete2asia.com

18

EXHIBITION PREVIEW SSystems Integration Asia December - January 2013

ISE 2013

Bigger, better and brighter Screen, the chief forum for Digital Outof-Home and Digital Signage industries in the UK. Taking place on Wednesday 30 January, “From Roadside to Retail” will assess the key drivers behind digital signage’s development in both the outof-home advertising and retail markets.

InfoComm’s Future Trends Summit will return for a third year in a row on Monday 28 January, providing actionable intelligence on markets, technologies and customer needs. The Summit will be divided into three distinct segments: Part 1, Future Customer Needs; Part 2, Future of the AV Business and Market; and Part 3, Future of AV Technologies. The Summit will be MC’d by Clive Couldwell, Editor of AV Europe magazine.

ISE 2013 will be the show’s tenth edition and promises to be bigger than ever before. From the 29th - 31st January, ISE 2013 will stage the largest AV tradeshow in Europe and, as in the past six years, will be held at the superb Amsterdam RAI, occupying every hall of this worldleading meeting and convention venue.

The show will attract professionals from every link in the systems integration value-chain, including manufacturers, distributors, dealers, contractors and consultants. ISE also draws ever-growing numbers of end customers, from fields as diverse as education, sports, corporate facilities, hospitality and live events.

Remarkably, over 40,000 people are expected to attend ISE 2013 from over 130 countries to network, pursue business opportunities and see the latest state-of-the-art technology.

The show floor will feature over 800 exhibitors occupying more than 30,000 net square metres of floor space as well as four dedicated show areas: Digital Signage; Residential Solutions; Unified Communications and the new Smart Building area, which will showcase the

latest solutions in building automation and energy management.

ISE is also proud to announce the addition of Hall 8 to the show’s floor plan, as well as two new conferences.

The Mega Pixel Summit will offer delegates the chance to understand the often complex issues associated with implementing a large display solution, while the Smart Building Conference will underline the importance of AV to the wider construction industry, attracting architects, design consultants and other key agents in the building sector.

Another exciting addition to ISE 2013 is a breakfast briefing organised by The

Both joint-venture owners of ISE, CEDIA and InfoComm International will again power the Education Zone. Taking place in the Elicium building the Education Zone will provide a variety of seminars covering everything from home cinema design to understanding advanced IP networks. Both associations also offer on-site certification, allowing attendees to gain globally recognised qualifications without leaving the show venue.

To register for the show free of charge, saving 60 euros on the onsite registration fee, please visit www. iseurope.org and use registration code 920141.

ACOUSTIC ECHO CANCELLATION Now STANDARD with

Q-Sys Core 250i

The world’s most powerful digital audio networking solution now offers Acoustic Echo Cancellation (AEC) – up to 48 channels. And unlike competing solutions from other manufacturers, AEC is a standard feature – no extra hardware or costly upgrade required.

And, because Q-Sys operates on Layer 3 Gigabit Ethernet over IT-friendly, industry standard network hardware, not only is Q-Sys powerful, it’s also incredibly easy to deploy.

To learn more, scan the code below or visit us online at qscmarketing.com/aec.

qsc.com

© 2012 QSC Audio Products, LLC. All rights reserved. QSC, the QSC logo, and Q-Sys are registered trademarks in the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office and other countries. Intel and the Intel logo are trademarks of Intel Corporation in the U.S. and/or other countries.

20

SOLUTIONS UPDATE SSystems Integration Asia December - January 2013

Sony: S-Series Public Displays Sony's new S-Series Full HD LED backlit public displays, the FWD-S55H2, FWDS46H2, and FWD-S42H2, incorporate LED backlighting and offer high brightness and detailed picture quality along with low power consumption.

Specially designed for public display, the FWD-S55H2 has been designed to offer clear visibility with panel resolution of 1920 x 1080 pixels and brightness of 1000 cd/m2. It also provides stability and reliable operation in retail signage, medical and rental staging applications.

The FWD-S46H2 and FWD-S42H2 models offer brightness of 700 cd/m2, with extremely high levels of professional versatility. All the S-Series displays deliver images with high brightness and a high contrast ratio of 4000:1, even at large venues and in places with bright ambient lighting.

The depth of the FWD-S55H2, FWDS46H2, and FWD-S42H2 makes the new models ideal for smaller retail environments. For slim installation, the Signal In and Signal Out terminals are incorporated into this profile, and do not protrude from the unit. The use of commercial-grade LCD panels and cooling systems enables these displays to be positioned either vertically or horizontally with no change in the backlight level or service life. This flexibility in orientation makes it possible to create many different imaging effects in a wide variety of spaces.

The various input/output terminals including HD-SDI (option) and HDMI enable connection with various types of professional equipment. http://pro.sony-asia.com

“The new S-Series models are easy-to-use, reliable and energy-efficient.

The simplicity of these products means smaller retail environments don’t need in-house IT expertise to leverage the benefits of digital content,” – Daisuke Nagatomi, Assistant General Manager, Visual Presentation Marketing, Professional Solutions Company (PSAP), Sony Electronics Asia Pacific.

dnp: Ultra-thin, frameless Supernova Blade Meeting modern demands for wider, flatter screens, the dnp Supernova Blade is only 3mm thick and available in 100”, 110” and 120” displays (in 16: 9 aspect ratio). However, it contains all the performance characteristics typical of a Supernova Screen.

The new screen, which uses ISF-certified Supernova 08-85 screen material, can be installed in two ways: either wallmounted or suspended from the ceiling.

In retail situations, where every square meter counts, the new slim-line screen also helps save space.

A built-in optical filter in the screen’s material absorbs ambient light and boosts image contrast, delivering up to seven times higher contrast than conventional front projection screens.

These light-absorbing capabilities eliminate the need for a dedicated darkened room, making it highly suitable for use in brightly lit surroundings such as meeting rooms and point of sales situations as well as home theatre.

www.dnp-screens.com

“Supernova Blade offers a minimalistic, clean appearance that fits into modern architecture and interior design. No frame, no thickness – just a big image in fantastic quality,” – Søren Kraemmergaard, Global Sales & Marketing Manager, dnp

LG Display: 84-inch UD LCD for interactive whiteboards

“With LG Display’s new 84-inch UD LCD for interactive whiteboards, we are proud to introduce a product that will contribute to enhancing the learning experience for students worldwide.“ – Joon Jun, V.P. and Head of LG Display’s Public Display Task

At 1.9m by 1.1m, LG Display’s new 84-inch UD panel for interactive whiteboards measures as the largest LCD product of its kind, ideal for installation in classrooms as it is similar in size to conventional whiteboards currently used in schools. In addition, the display features a maximum brightness of 350 nit, 3.5 times brighter than existing projector-type interactive whiteboards; and UD resolution of 3840 x 2160 (about 8.3 million pixels), 8 times the image quality of current HD projectors.

With superior brightness and clarity, the new whiteboard display solves weaknesses inherent with current projector-type whiteboards in relation to ambient light. Also, the new display eliminates occurrences of images being blocked by silhouettes and disrupting the attention of students, a major

complaint with existing projector-type interactive whiteboards.

Finally, LG Display’s new display is able to integrate touch functionality allowing users to annotate directly on the screen, without the need for a separate touchenabled whiteboard screen as required by projector-type. The display can also be equipped, upon request, with LG Display’s industry-acclaimed Film Patterned Retarder (FPR) 3D technology featuring wide viewing angles and inexpensive glasses – key for a class full of students.

The new whiteboard is expected to launch in Korea and China at the end of 2012. www.lgdisplay.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 Cer Certifies wtih FCC/CE

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

22

SOLUTIONS UPDATE SSystems Integration Asia December - January 2013

Christie: New G Series projector “As customer requirements increase in a rapidly changing landscape, Christie is ahead of the curve in offering the affordable, yet feature-packed Christie G Series. The market has been asking for a product like this from Christie and we think our customers are going to love the new G series.”

– George Tsintzouras, Senior Director, Product Management, Christie.

At 5000 lumens and offering a choice between HD (1920 x 1080) and WUXGA (1920 x 1200) resolutions, the Christie G Series is an excellent choice for board and conference rooms, government, houses of worship, higher education facilities and a variety of small venue applications.

in-Picture and Picture-by-Picture functionality provide flexible display options. And for multiprojector installations, the Christie G Series comes with colour matching as well as an optional dual processing warp card that enables blending and warping.

Installation is easy with features like optional wireless connectivity, a suite of optional lenses and input options that include HDMI, DVI and display port. When it comes to image quality, the Dynamic Contrast feature boosts contrast ratios up to 5000:1, and Picture-

The Christie G Series models have a three-year parts and labour warranty backed by Christie’s renowned sales and service support.

Christie DWU-550-G

www.christiedigital.com

Christie: Enhanced E Series projectors Contrast feature. In addition, the new Christie E Series offers easy connectivity, incredible image quality and DLP® reliability.

Christie DWU-775-E

Christie also added four new E Series projectors to its extensive product lineup with the Christie DHD675-E, Christie DWU675-E, Christie DHD775-E and the Christie DWU775-E. The new Christie E Series models are built on 1-chip DLP® technology and a dual lamp design that provides increased brightness ranging from 6450 to 7200 lumens, a choice between HD (1920 x 1080) and WUXGA (1920 x 1200) resolutions, and delivers up to 5000:1 contrast ratio thanks to the Dynamic

Additional benefits of the new Christie E Series are the optional dual processor warp module for blending and warping images, color matching and an optional stacking system making it ideal for applications requiring geometric adjustments and/or multi-projector setups used in rental and staging applications.

The new Christie E Series models feature a dust-sealed light engine and dual mercury lamps that have the unique ability to optimize lamp configuration to maximize lamp operation in 24/7 applications. Also included is a high brightness six-segment colour wheel (RGBCYW) with an optional rich colour wheel (RGBCYM) available when colour precision is vital. The colour wheel ensures radiant colours while eliminating

artifacts from rapidly moving content, leaving audiences with the sharpest images.

The Christie E Series models have a three-year parts and labour warranty backed by Christie’s renowned sales and service support. www.christiedigital.com

“With the inclusion of display port inputs, brightness tracking and optional wireless connectivity, these new E Series models are ideal for boardrooms, conference rooms, auditoriums, venues, government, houses of worship and higher education spaces.”

– George Tsintzouras, Senior Director, Product Management, Christie.

24

SOLUTIONS UPDATE SSystems Integration Asia December - January 2013

Revolabs: Hybrid HD Microphones and SLX Adapter The versatile Revolabs Hybrid HD™ products bring all the advantages of wired and wireless solutions to the conference table. Constantly powered and located around the conference table, the wired Hybrid microphones and XLR adapters take the guesswork out of microphone placement, resulting in optimized audio pick up during meetings. For meetings where wireless operation is required, the microphones can easily be removed from the power source and placed where required around the table.

Offering simple plug-and-play functionality, the Revolabs Hybrid HD microphones and XLR adapter greatly simplifies the administration and installation of audio systems in any room.

The Hybrid HD microphones and XLR adapter utilize "Designed for Speech" HD audio technology, providing crystal-

clear audio so users can hear every word. Integrated RF Armor™ technology makes audio impervious to GSM noise from cell phones, avoiding unwanted audio interference. To keep meetings private, the microphones feature secure 128-bit encryption technology.

The Revolabs Hybrid HD microphones are available in omnidirectional and directional tabletop versions, and come complete with a power supply. The Hybrid HD XLR adapter provides audio coverage for any dynamic gooseneck microphone (sold separately) with an XLR connection. To reduce the number of power outlets required for the Hybrid HD solutions, Revolabs offers users the ability to power four microphones with one power supply with its Hybrid 4 Multi Microphone Power Adapter Kit, sold separately.

"The Revolabs Hybrid HD products combine the best of both wired and wireless microphones into one versatile solution. And no matter how long a meeting may last, users never have to worry about a microphone losing power."

Marc Cremer, COO, Revolabs.

www.revolabs.com

Smart-e: SmartDigital MCT-16 digital matrix “With many year’s experience designing products for AV distribution over structured cabling we were able to include plenty of features which are unique to our existing product range, helping to simplify and improve system integration.”

– Jon Lane, Managing Director, Smart-e Smart-e’s new digital switch, the SmartDigital MCT-16 is a professional high resolution digital matrix, that switches and distributes HDMI over a single CAT5e-8 cable capable of delivering HDMI, InfraRed, RS232 signals and inline power over distances of up to 100m.

Its modular construction, simple cost-effective switching and device control options allows the unit to be configured for a variety of applications, from home cinemas and small office solutions, through to digital signage and multi-room corporate communications.

The Smart-e control protocol allows use of existing software drivers and features such as dual integrated PSU (for mission critical applications), and inline power of the CAT5e-8 receivers (SDS-RX900).

The MCT-16 is a compact modular 3U 19” rack mounted unit using dual I/O cards to allow the selection of between 2x2 to 16x16 inputs and outputs to be specified in a combination of HDMI or CAT5e-8 (HDbaseT) outputs, making it very cost effective as it can be configured exactly to meet client needs.

It can be controlled easily via either IP (optional), Infra-Red, RS232 or locally at the front panel. An integrated RS232 pass through with multiplexer enables effective display management including power control, saving energy and screen life.

HDCP and HDMI compliant, the matrix is compatible, with all resolutions up to 4K, 2K, 1080p including 3D and supports Deep Colour. www.smart-e.co.uk

Gefen: New DVI-3600HD KVM extender Gefen’s newest KVM (keyboard, video, mouse) extender is currently shipping.

The DVI-3600HD comes with rack mountable sender and receiver units equipped with ports for DVI, USB, RS232 and analog audio. When connected to a local computer and a remote workstation, the DVI-3600HD delivers high resolution (1920x1200) video in the DVI format, up to four USB peripherals such as keyboard/mouse, printer, camera and hard drive, RS-232 automation or control and analog audio from sender to receiver. Distances up to 6600 feet (2000m) are reached using a single mode fiber optic cable. The use of multi-mode fiber optic cable will reach distances up to 1650 feet (500m).

Because USB peripherals can be connected at both local (sender) and remote (receiver) locations, users can set up two distant workstations and

alternate between the two. When in local mode, the computer accesses up to two USB devices connected to the sender unit. When in remote mode, it recognizes up to four USB devices connected to the receiver unit. A front panel switch on the sender controls local and remote modes of operation.

Local and virtual EDID ensures a constant signal sync even when delivering multiple signals up to 2000 meters in distance. www.gefen.com

V to the Power of X As the only self-powered loudspeaker system to feature the brand new IDEEA™ power module from Lab.gruppen, VXP Series combines our next-generation Dual Concentric™ and PowerDual™ driver technologies with the latest development in ultra-reliable, energy efficient amplification.

The result is a new benchmark in audible superiority and \UOLYHSKLK ÅL_PIPSP[` PU H ZLSM WV^LYLK SV\KZWLHRLY YHUNL With an L_WHUZP]L VMMLYPUN VM LUJSVZ\YLZ HUK [YHUZK\JLY JVTWSLTLU[Z =?7 :LYPLZ IYPUNZ [OPZ WLYMLJ[ \UPVU VM [LJOUVSVN` [VNL[OLY ^P[O ZTHY[ LYNVUVTPJ WVY[HISL HUK PUZ[HSS MYPLUKS` JHIPUL[ KLZPNUZ YLMPULK I\PSKX\HSP[` HUK JHYLM\SS` [OV\NO[ V\[ M\UJ[PVUHSP[` (SZV H]HPSHISL PU WHZZP]L ]HYPHU[ ¶ =? :LYPLZ

Learn more at tannoy.com/pro

IDEEA

TM

26

SOLUTIONS UPDATE Systems Integration Asia December - January 2013

projectiondesign: New X-PORT™ extension modules projectiondesign®’s new X-PORT™ modular based front and backend connectivity extensions offer great new connectivity and image processing options. The new X-PORT modules are designed for use with the new F35, FL35 and F85 series projectors using projectiondesign’s Magnesium electronics platform.

Whilst the F35 and FL35 series X-PORT modules are available for purchase now, the F85 series X-PORT module will ship in December 2012.

X-PORT is a small and unique module based extension that enables easy connectivity to and from current and future formats, as well as supplemental image processing. The discrete devices plug easily on to the back of the projector.

X-PORT is currently available as two modules, a DCC120 Dual Channel Combiner and a 3G-SDI interface.

The DCC120 works as an image processor and frame rate converter, and can transform discrete passive 3D stereo to active, as well as frame convert any input signal or combination of signals to sequential 120Hz, essential for many applications with fast moving objects or 3D stereo visualization.

The 3G-SDI interface is compatible with both high-bandwidth 3G SDI, as well

as standard SDI for cable lengths up to 300 meters. The 3G-SDI can be combined with the DCC120 to enable active stereo 3G-SDI for many highend applications.

Future connectivity adds HDMI 1.4a with all its benefits, as well as other emerging formats and technologies. www.projectiondesign.com

RTI: New remote control processor “For integrators in both residential and commercial installations, harnessing the XP-8s’ advanced control options and extra power opens the door to larger projects.”

– Pete Baker, vice president of sales and marketing for RTI. Remote Technologies Incorporated (RTI) latest version of its popular XP-8 remote control processor: the XP-8s, offers all of the control interface options of its predecessor albeit with a faster processor, more internal memory, and an SD card for an additional 4GB of Flash memory.

The XP-8s’ processing power has been boosted with a new 532MHz i.MX processor, which is more than twice as fast as the XP-8. This translates into better performance, expanded twoway driver support, and faster system

file downloads. To take the capabilities of the XP-8s even further, the amount of internal non-volatile Flash memory has been upgraded to 128MB, which is four times more than its predecessor.

In addition, each unit will ship with a 4GB SD Flash card to provide plenty of storage for large residential and commercial installations.

Designed for large-scale and complex projects, the XP-8s remote control processor combines a real-time/ multi-tasking operating system with tremendous expandability. The XP-8s

offers an abundance of advanced control options, including eight two-way RS232 ports, IR ports, built-in relays, and sense inputs. An Ethernet port provides RTiPanel support and IP control for complete whole-house or facility control of A/V, lighting systems, thermostats, multi-room audio, and more, from nearly anywhere in the world. Additionally, the processor features an astronomical clock, allowing for events or commands to take place automatically. www.rticorp.com

Extron: DMP 128 Audio DSP models with Acoustic Echo Cancellation Extron Electronics DMP 128 and DMP 128 C Digital Matrix Processors are both 12x8 audio mixers featuring Extron ProDSP™, automixing, and I/O expansion capabilities. The DMP 128 C version also features AEC - acoustic echo cancellation. The DMP 128 Series offers a configuration approach to DSP that simplifies mixing, routing, conferencing,

and room optimization. Quick and intuitive configuration using the DSP Configurator™ Software allows the DMP 128 Series to be installed in very little time, with easy-to-learn adjustments that can be heard in real-time. A digital audio expansion port allows two DMP 128 units to be linked together to expand input and output signal management and routing capabilities. The DMP 128 is ideal for presentation and conferencing applications in boardrooms, courtrooms, and conference centres that require advanced matrix mixing with DSP. The DMP 128 C model includes Extron AEC for conferencing applications. The unit features eight independent channels of high performance

AEC, as well as selectable noise cancellation. AEC processing can be challenged by conditions such as doubletalk, when talkers from both ends are speaking simultaneously, and when near end talkers use wireless microphones.

Extron AEC features advanced algorithms that deliver fast echo canceler convergence for optimal intelligibility, even in challenging conditions.

Both models include an automixer with gated and gain sharing modes for managing up to eight groups of microphone signals. Gating threshold, signal level reduction, and timing parameters are user-adjustable per channel. www.extron.com/dmp128nspr

We have all you need for Digital Signage Image Copyright SuriyaPhoto 2012. Used under license from Shutterstock.com.

Digital Signage Reinvented

Award winning HMP130 and full HD HMP200, including: Fusion - The cloud in the Box

spinetix.com

28

SOLUTIONS UPDATE SSystems Integration Asia December - January 2013

Blackmagic Design: HyperDeck software update 3.6 The new update to its revolutionary solid state disk (SSD) recorder adds support for Apple ProRes 422 (HQ) into HyperDeck Shuttle 2, plus new closed caption support for all HyperDeck models. The HyperDeck Shuttle 2 with the new ProRes 422 (HQ) compression feature significantly reduces the size of uncompressed HD video files while preserving full frame 10-bit 4:2:2 quality, allowing customers to record up to six times longer.

HyperDeck Shuttle turns low cost cameras into high end broadcast cameras because it allows video file recording to bypass the camera’s compression by recording from SDI and HDMI directly to either 10-bit uncompressed QuickTime, Avid DNxHD MXF and now Apple ProRes 422 (HQ) formats. SSDs are cheap and fast, and can be plugged into an eSATA dock for instant access to the media files, so are the most flexible recording medium available.

“Adding ProRes 422 (HQ) recording and playback to HyperDeck Shuttle 2 shows our continuing commitment to open systems and gives users the freedom to work in either compressed or uncompressed formats.”

– Grant Petty, CEO, Blackmagic Design.

This new update also includes full closed caption support for all HyperDeck models. With full closed caption support, HyperDeck Shuttle and HyperDeck Studio are the ideal solution for authoring closed captioning, as well as ensuring all closed caption is recorded and played back.

closed caption support, the HyperDeck Shuttle 2 provides customers with a small, affordable and battery powered solution that is the perfect field recorder.

For direct camera mounting, HyperDeck Shuttle Mounting plate can be added to provide multiple pre drilled 1/4” and 3/8” mounting holes.

With the addition of the new ProRes recording and playback, as well as full

www.blackmagicdesign.com

NEC: The new M Series projectors the extended lamp life of up to 10,000 hours when on Eco mode, depending on the model in question.

NEC’s brand new M Series, consists of the M361X, M311X, M271X, M311W and M271W models. Though retaining the essence of the existing M Series models, the new line of projectors have definitely moved a few steps ahead in performance and eco-friendliness. The brightness ratio have, for example, been improved by 100lm from earlier models, while the contrast ratio have increased from 2000:1 to 3000:1. Also welcome news is

With connectivity becoming a must for most office equipment, the new M-Series also thoughtfully includes versatile software tools that allow for wireless data transmission from tablets and mobile phones employing Apple devices such as iPhones and iPads that use IOS and for Desktop PC/ Notebook with Windows or MAC OS. Another interesting development is the arrangement of connectors on the top of the unit, allowing the user to find their positions, while the larger operation keys

are definitely easier to use – such details can sometimes make a big difference.

NEC’s concern for the environment continues to show in the many ecofriendly features that are built into the M Series. An Auto Eco Mode automatically adjusts brightness to suit the projected image, saving up to as much as 30% in power consumption. When no signal is being input, the projector will use as little as 25% of power, depending on the background mode you choose. Also useful is the carbon meter, which makes it easy to know just how much CO2 emission you are cutting down whenever you go on Eco Mode. www.necdisplay.com/ap

Haivision: MakitoTM X Series

The Makito X Series is Haivision’s next-generation, highperformance H.264 video encoding platform. Addressing the tremendous growth in the use of live IP video within the enterprise and across the Internet, the Makito X Ser2, a dual channel low-latency HD-SDI H.264 encoder, is the first Haivision product to incorporate the new X Series technology. With unmatched density, the Makito X2 can encode up to 12 HD sources (up to 1080p60) to H.264 within a single 1RU of rack space. Supporting High Profile H.264 video compression, the Makito X2 delivers highly efficient video encoding, yielding up to twice the picture quality while maintaining the Makito’s legendary 55-millisecond encoding latency. The picture quality of the Makito X2 streams are on par with broadcast-quality encoders at higher bitrates and

Smart-e: SmartDigital HDCX-800 The SmartDigital HDCX800 is a cost-effective and flexible compact 3D-ready device that enables a single HDMI signal to be distributed to up to eight displays simultaneously.

It is ideal for a variety of multi-screen applications, including home cinemas, conference suites, training rooms, houses of worship and digital signage.

The unit is a high bandwidth splitter featuring an eight output distribution amplifier for a single HDMI device such as a DVD player or PC - splitting the single HDMI input to eight separate HDMI screens, or projectors, simultaneously.

For smaller applications there is also a four output version (HDCX-400) that distributes to four screens at the same time.

Fully HDMI, DVI and HDCP compliant the HDCX-800 and HDCX-400 distribute video images up to 1080p or 1920x1200, over a range of 6 metres from the source device.

Both versions are capable of data rates up to 6.75 Gbps including 3D, and are powered from a single DC supply.

Embedded HD audio is automatically routed within the HDMI signals. Installation is a simple ‘plug and play’ process. www.smart-e.co.uk

“Haivision has once again redefined the IP video encoding market on price, performance, and features.

The Makito X2 delivers unrivaled density/quality for IP video applications.”

– Mirko Wicha, President, CEO of Haivision

deliver pristine quality at bitrates lower than 2 Mbps, ideal for Internet or satellite transport of HD video.

Delivering video to multiple platforms and across a variety of networks simultaneously, the Makito X2 supports multiple bitrate (MBR) streaming with up to four renditions of each input from 32 Kbps to 25 Mbps at full 1080p60. The Makito X2 encoder can also output a variety of stream types such as TS and RTMP over unicast and multicast. With its support for MBR, the Makito X2 concurrently services desktops, mobile devices, set-top boxes, signage players, recorders, and streaming servers. www.haivision.com

The advantage of the CORIOmaster … the flexibility to be different.

CORIOmaster … a new level of video processing for Videowall applications, utilize irregular combinations of monitors, independent resolutions, image rotation & scaled outputs s s s s s s s s s s s s s s s

NEW CORIO®3 processing Image rotation 0RGXODULW\ SURYLGHV À H[LELOLW\ 4x28 DVI-U* to 28x4 DVI-U* I/O Any format I/O with up/down/cross conversion Analog: PC resolutions to 2048 x 2048, HDTV to 1080p60 DVI: PC resolutions to 1920x1200, HDTV to 1080p60 w/EDID Automatic incoming resolution detection Video signal parameter adjustments )XOO EDQGZLGWK VDPSOLQJ +'0, FRPSDWLEOH , 2 ZLWK +'&3 Optional redundant power supply Interfaces: RS-232/422/485, USB, IP Windows control software 5 Year Warranty

DVI-U * The U nive compatib

rsal I/O

le with HDMI, DVI-D, DVI-A, RGBH V, RGBs , RGsB, YUV, YPbPr, CV, Y/C

Call Now for our Latest Catalog

The Video Processing Specialists

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 Fax: +886 2 2698-2297 www.tvoneasia.com sales.asia@tvone.com E&OE. All Copyrights and Trademarks are acknowledged

30

SOLUTIONS UPDATE SSystems Integration Asia December - January 2013

Lightware: Twisted pair wallplate and floorbox transmitter The WP-UMX-TP-TX100 and FP-UMXTP-TX100 are all-round, universal video and audio extenders designed to handle digital video, analog video, and audio signals e.g. VGA, YPbPr, RGB, DVI and HDMI 1.3 with analog stereo or even 7.1 HDMI embedded audio. Analog signals are converted to digital formats and digital or digitized analog audio is embedded in the video stream. Video, audio and remote power are carried over two twisted pair cables. The transmitter handles HDCP encryption and has an HDCP enable/disable function.

Using factory, custom or transparent EDID emulation the user can fix and lock EDID data on the transmitter’s input connector. Advanced EDID Management forces the required resolution from

any VGA or HDMI laptop and fixes the output format conforming to the system performance. Control options are available through compatible Lightware receivers which have serial RS-232 control port (e.g. HDMI-TP-RX100RA).

Cross compatibility between all the devices in the product series is ensured thanks to Lightware’s attentive design.

The transmitter can be paired with any receiver without restriction. With Lightware’s Hybrid Modular Matrix concept, it is even possible to connect the WP-UMX-TP-TX100 or FP-UMX-TPTX100 directly to the matrix router using Lightware’s MX-HDMI-TP or MX-DVI-TP series input board. www.lightware.eu

Sony: New VPL-CX275 and VPL-CW275 projectors for the installation market

VPL-CX275

The VPL-CW275 is capable of light output levels of up to 5,100 lm (on high lamp mode), making it one of the brightest WXGA (1280x800) models in its class. The VPL-CX275 features XGA (1024x768) display resolution with brightness levels of up to 5,200 lm (on high lamp mode). Both new models were designed to offer better colour light output and colour reproduction, and are equipped with 1.5x (approx.) zoom lens, Gamma Mode – a setting extremely suitable for projecting coloured images in bright environments, and a built-in 10W speaker.

The new models both feature contrast ratios of 3,000:1, and variety of inputs/ outputs such as RGB video and audio, HDMI, RJ45 or RS232C connectors, and LAN connectivity. Via the convenient “ECO MODE” key on the projectors or remote, the projectors can be operated with a customisable combination of energy efficiency settings including an auto lamp dimming function, which can reduce lamp power consumption by approximately 15%, and a “Power Saving Mode” automatic switch-off after a set time period.

A new “Picture Muting” feature can turn the picture off when necessary by a single button-press on the remote control which also reduces lamp power consumption.

To make the projectors more installation friendly, both models offer lens shift capability as well as the ability to correct keystone distortion. These useful features prevent unclear, distorted images that are difficult to view, and make them more flexible in terms of installation. The new models also possess “Screen Fitting” for installation adjustment and an eight point image warping adjustment for concave and convex projection surfaces. http://pro.sony-asia.com VPL-CW275

Kramer Electronics: VP-790 ProScale™ digital scaler/switcher The high−quality VP−790 ProScale™ digital scaler/switcher is Kramer’s first scaler to incorporate 3G HD−SDI signal processing and genlocking capability.

The unit takes one of the inputs, scales, warps and edge−blends the video and outputs the signal to the computer graphics, DVI/HDMI and 3G HD−SDI outputs simultaneously.

With its genlock input and other unique characteristics, the VP−790 is ready to tackle any live event and ideal for use in broadcast video applications. The unit’s HQV® (Hollywood Quality Video) scaling engine ensures incredible image quality. The VP−790 represents the state−of−the−art in video processing technology, with the highest quality de− interlacing (with 3:2 & 2:2 pull down), noise reduction, and scaling performance for both standard−definition and high− definition signals.

ratio selections of full, overscan, underscan, letterbox & panscan. The built−in ProcAmp includes colour, hue, sharpness, noise, contrast, and brightness while the unit’s non−volatile memory saves the final settings.

The VP−790’s Video Warping feature takes user−generated screen coordinates to match any linear or non−linear surface. Other unique features include picture rotation and edge−blending, that facilitates building large images using multiple projectors by feathering the overlapped edges.

The VP−790 features a wide variety of flexible control options: OSD (on− screen display), IR remote, Ethernet and RS−232. Its variety of inputs and outputs including the Genlock input, fully flexible Picture−in−Picture feature, HQV scaling engine and host of advanced image enhancement features make this scaler/ switcher an outstanding choice for any live show venue.

The VP−790 is a standard 1U 19” rack mount size and comes with included rack “ears”. www.kramerelectronics.com

The VP−790 can accept signals of up to 3Gbps (3G HD−SDI). It is HDTV compatible and HDCP compliant.

This product offers multiple aspect

Gefen: New ToolBox Extender for HDMI “This new product is a natural progression in our expanding line of ELR (Extra Long Range) extenders using HDBaseT technology. Gefen now supplies the most comprehensive selection of extenders using the HDBaseT technology and we will continue to enhance our range of extender products to take advantage of the streamlined extension technology.”

– Hagai Gefen, President, Gefen.

The Gefen ToolBox Extender for HDMI w/POL (Power Over Line) provides an easy and effective way to extend any HDMI source with the additional benefit of bi-directional IR and power all using one CAT5 cable up to 230 feet (70m). Extending power over the same CAT-5 cable as HDMI is possible using Gefen POL technology, which releases the receiver from requiring a power supply.

The Gefen ToolBox Extender for HDMI w/POL can streamline installations where an AC plug is limited at the receiving end. It works with all hi-def sources using HDMI including AppleTVs, computers, set-top boxes and more. All displays using HDMI connectivity can be extended. Multi-channel audio, 1080p full HD and 3DTV pass-through are fully supported.

Installation is plug and play easy, requiring the wall mountable sender unit to be connected to the local HD source and powered. The wall mountable receiver connects to the display and requires no power supply. www.gefen.com

SOLUTIONS UPDATE Systems Integration Asia December - January 2013

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Magenta: Long Range HDMI Extension Solution Magenta Research introduction of its HD-One DX500 and HD-One LX500 HDMI extenders, deliver perfectly replicated digital signals to a distance of 500 feet (152 meters) over a single Cat6 cable.

“Magenta is all about removing common integration limitations, while offering multiple options within every product line. The dramatically improved distance reach of the HD-One 500 Series frees users from many common constraints prevalent in the marketplace.”

– Len Pond,Magenta Product Manager

The HD-One DX500 supports the extension of 1920x1200 and 1080p HDMI video plus embedded audio, while the HD-One LX500 adds support for two-way RS-232 and IR signals (36.7, 38.0 or 58.8 kHz, user selectable). Both units are sold in a kit form that includes a transmitter, receiver and power supplies.

The HD-One LX500 kit also includes a pair of IR dongles to ensure speedy installation.

In addition to their extended reach, HD-One500 products are engineered to use less power, dissipate less heat, and offer significantly better emission and susceptibility performance than HDBaseT products.

Exceeding the 100 meter hurdle of typical digital extenders allows integrators, consultants and installers to ensure that screens are placed exactly where an application needs them to be,

while avoiding any reliance on splitters or boosters that can compromise signal quality. http://magenta-research.com

Atlona: LinkConnect Plenum HDMI® Cables

“Many other HDMI cables that claim to be for plenum spaces are Teflon based and are only certified to 75°C. In addition, their thinner 26AWG copper conductors can’t handle the high demands of highresolution computer sources. Due to their location, plenum cables are expensive to replace, so you want to ensure the highest quality the first time — that can only be found with LinkConnect.”

– Ilya Khayn, president and CEO, Atlona.

Atlona’s LinkConnect Plenum HDMI® cables are available in lengths of 25, 35, 50, and 75 feet. The cables combine the legendary performance of Atlona’s LinkConnect line with the stringent UL™ certification required for installation in plenum and riser air spaces.

The plenum space above drop ceilings and under raised floors is the optimal place for routing HDMI cables. However, due to the hazards of smoke inhalation in the event of a fire, it is recommended that the cables be able to withstand high temperatures without giving off significant fumes. Atlona’s LinkConnect Plenum HDMI cables offer a CMPcertified Kynar® jacket for a temperature rating to 125°C. Offering a high 4.95-Gbps bandwidth, LinkConnect Plenum HDMI cables utilize

24AWG copper conductors to ensure reliable signal transmission, especially with higher resolutions, colour depths, and refresh rates. As HDMI signals become attenuated at longer distances, the 50- and 75-foot versions utilise an advanced signal enhancer chipset to eliminate speckles and dropouts for crystal clear images.

LinkConnect Plenum HDMI cables support resolutions to 1080p and 1920x1200, pass-through for all 3D formats, and audio up to Dolby® TrueHD or DTS-HD Master audio. For the best signal, triple-shielding protects against EM and RF interference, while 24K gold tight-fit connectors provide corrosion resistance for improved connectivity. www.atlona.com

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INDIA & ME NEWS SSystems Integration Asia December - January 2013

Impressed visitors check in at Destination Security India, with Bosch for small to medium-sized applications.

This section showcased how Advantage Line brings professional quality security into the realm of applications such as small business, retail and schools.

Tiku Sudhir, General Manager, Bosch Security Systems India said: “IFSEC India, which attracts all key industry players and customers, is one of the largest exhibition for commercial and homeland security held every year. The innovative booth by Bosch this year smartly presented a seamless integration of products and solution into one setting, leaving a deep impression on all.”

INDIA: A luxurious white aeroplane was seemingly parked at the India Expo Centre, waiting for passengers to come onboard and fly them to Destination Security. There were no travel restrictions, and passports were not needed. This was part of the ingenious booth set-up by Bosch Security Systems India, who created an airport look-alike scenario in their booth and pulled in the crowds at IFSEC India.

During the three-day show, visitors who entered the ‘airport’ were greeted by

Bosch’s wide range of security, safety and communication products at the different departure gates. Visitors witnessed Bosch’s outstanding quality performance and saw how the various products can come together to form a fully integrated security solution. They also saw the latest High Definition security products.

www.boschsecurity.co.in

Before departure, visitors could also enter a ‘duty free area’ which was designed for the products of the Advantage Line, developed specifically

Highbrow takes initiative to host International AV week in Hyderabad

INDIA: Andhra Pradesh Legislative Assembly Speaker Nadendla Manohar (first from left, with Tricolor cloth around shoulder) paying a keen eye and ear to the AV Week organized by Highbrow Production Services in Hyderabad recently. Sreecharan Atluri (in black suite) explains to him the purpose of the event.

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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INDIA & ME NEWS Systems Integration Asia December - January 2013

beyerdynamic appoints new Sales Manager for MENA MENA: German audio major beyerdynamic announced the appointment of Ms Elmira Moraveji to the position of Sales Manager for the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region. Elmira Moraveji brings 12 years of experience in the audio electronics industry, coupled with a passion for music and a strong knowledge of the regional markets.

Elmira commented on her new assignment: “I am very excited about joining the beyerdynamic team, especially at a time when the company is going through a lot of positive changes and developments, and I am very happy and proud to help bring this legendary brand to the next level.”

“We are very happy that Elmira has joined our team,” said Wolfgang Leute, Director of Sales and Marketing. “With her personality, her skills and her experience in the audio industry, she will help us to significantly improve our international business. Elmira already has an excellent knowledge of the markets we are targeting and of the products and solutions we are offering.”

“With the recent launch of Quinta, the fifth generation of wireless conference systems, and several new exciting products to come in the near future, my target is to effectively increase the brand awareness and the sales of our complete portfolio in the region.” www.beyerdynamic.com

Deepak Braganza assumes new role at LifeSize INDIA: LifeSize, a division of Logitech, announced Deepak Braganza as Country Manager for LifeSize Communications India and South Asia. In his new role, Deepak will focus on developing business growth, extending partnerships, channel expansion and accelerating the company’s foot hold across India and South Asia.

Before joining LifeSize, Deepak worked with Polycom where he developed the channel, distribution ecosystem and service provider domain, and was instrumental in large and prestigious project wins. He had also worked with large system integrators like HCL Infosystems and is recognized as an effective leader with good interpersonal, people management and organisational skills.

“I am very pleased to have Deepak join the LifeSize team. Deepak has

strong experience in the IT and video conferencing industries, and a deep understanding of the India and South Asia markets. I have confidence that his rich experience will bring LifeSize India and South Asia success in the market,” said Simon Claringbold, General Manager and Vice-President of LifeSize Asia Pacific. “The video conferencing market in India is witnessing huge traction and Deepak’s proven track record of increasing revenues, market development and strategy implementation for deeper market penetration will help us widen our reach to all enterprise, mid-market and small businesses across sectors and regions.”

Commenting on his role Deepak said, “I am elated to be part of the LifeSize team and want to lead the company into its next growth phase. The demand for HD video collaboration solutions is going up as businesses realize the value

and contribution towards organizational productivity, and LifeSize offers bestin-class solutions at uncompromised quality.”

Deepak is a telecommunications professional with a bachelor’s degree in chemistry and over 17 years of experience in the areas of profit centre management, sales and marketing, business development, key account management, techno-commercial and service operations. He was previously with Polycom where he developed the channel, distribution ecosystem and service provider domain, and was instrumental in large and prestigious project wins. www.lifesize.com

Actis rolls out Virtual Office Solutions INDIA: Actis Technologies, pioneers in designing and building communication and collaboration technologies, has unveiled Virtual Office Solutions for corporate India.

A virtual office is a combination of off-site live communication and address services. Actis’ Virtual Office Solutions include technologies like Virtual Meeting, Virtual Presentation, Webinars, Intranet, and Skill Mapping. The technology can be used by individuals and companies to operate a fully fledged business from any remote location.

“The conservative boundaries of office rooms have opened up to new dimensions,” says Actis Technologies Director Abhimanyu Gupta. “The major beneficiaries of this ground-breaking automated management technology are SMEs, budding entrepreneurs, and large corporations.”

The applications for Actis’ Virtual Office Solutions are multiple and cost effective. Virtual Office helps in reducing the traveling costs (especially in cities with infrastructural bottleneck) thereby reducing carbon footprint. Virtual Office solutions can provide large corporations with flexi working options for employees, thereby reducing attrition rate. Also in a changing scenario, the growth of self employed professionals and consultants have increased the need for companies to communicate with them (partners) on a frequent basis. Virtual office solutions help partners to integrate themselves in the ecosystem of the company. SMEs who are planning to expand to other cities can avail of Virtual Office Solutions and reduce operational costs.

“Actis is trusted for its reliable AV solutions, and is well renowned for introducing a comprehensive assortment of ICT products for corporate India. Our Virtual Office Solutions are affordable, hassle free and a greener alternative to leasing a full-time office space,” explains the Actis Director. www.actis.co.in

TG 1000 DIGITAL WIRELESS SYSTEM –––––– PROFESSIONAL AUDIO PRODUCTS MAD MADE A IN GERMANY

Safe long-term investment with 319 MHz bandwith, Chameleon Software (webserver based), 24-bit converters, OneButton Navigation, SecurityFirst digital encryption technology, TriplePlayCodec, CristalClearDisplay, FastSync for synchronisation below one second, 24-Channel Cascading without using an external splitter, interchangeable microphone capsules, no sound colouration through GenuineGuitar technology, SmartDesign Transmitters, up to 300 Meters Range, 122 db dynamic range. for more information kinzel@beyerdynamic.de

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INDIA & ME NEWS SSystems Integration Asia December - January 2013

Harman India’s first Authorised Harman Service Centre in Mumbai in the regions like North and East, with plans of appointing more such AHSCs to serve regional customers, in-time, on-time.”

According to Ganesh, the AHSC is a significant step in the service capabilities for Harman Professional. In order to ensure better coordination and synergy with the service center in Mumbai and the customers, Wilfrid Fernandes, Senior Service Engineer, Harman Professional would operate out of Mumbai.

INDIA: In a move that supports and builds on Harman Professional’s foray into India as a distributor, assuming its own pan-India distribution, the company has launched an Authorised Harman Service Centre (AHSC) for the Western region in India, operating from Mumbai.

The company has appointed Mumbaibased TASS Services (India) Pvt. Ltd., as its AHSC for western region. The centre has a total built up area of 2000 sq. feet located at Andheri in the heart of Mumbai. Currently, TASS has 22 service and support staff. Since its inception, the company has been associated with servicing various brands in audio, video, cinema and Broadcast equipment and is a reputed player in the industry, handling several leading brands.

This will be followed up with expansion of Harman Professional’s service network across regions like- North and East in the next few months. The rationale behind the move is to get closer to customers and reduced turn around time, with maximum support on the entire Harman professional range - including JBL, BSS, Crown, dbx, JBL, Lexicon, Soundcraft and Studer.

Harman India, since its inception in 2010 has been successfully operating a full-

fledged company owned Service Centre in Bangalore. This centre will continue its operations of providing service and customer support for the Southern region. In addition it will also offer technical repair support for all the AHSC in terms of trouble shooting, component level repair, spare part supplies to ensure high customer satisfaction.

“With Mumbai being the nerve centre of Pro Audio industry in India, this was a logical move in addition to the company owned and operated centre at Bangalore. The appointment of TASS as our first ASC is an example of Harman’s strong commitment to provide the bestin-class service and customer support network to our customers delivering higher levels of service while adhering to Harman set service benchmarks,” said David McKinney, Senior Director – India Operations, Harman Professional. “With Ganesh Kumar, Harman’s Service Manager leading a talented team the service levels of Harman Professional has seen a complete turnaround and this step is only the next level of benchmark in service,” he said, adding, “we look forward to growing our service network with our clients further

The service centre is equipped with well trained technicians, testing equipment, sufficient spares inventory, all in a better ambience. In addition to this, the service personnel of TASS will be constantly trained by technical staff and specialists of Harman, in order to familiarize them with all the latest updates and technological advancements in the range,” said Ganesh Kumar.

“The appointment of TASS Services as AHSC for Western India further consolidates our position as a leading AV services provider coupled with our expertise, location advantage and technical capabilities of the service personnel,” said Sethumadhavan Sekharan Nair, Director at TASS Services India Pvt Ltd. “We are proud to be associated with Harman, the leader in audio solutions and look forward to successful partnership, creating a delightful customer experience.” www.harman.com www.harman.in

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INDIA & ME NEWS SSystems Integration Asia December - January 2013

DIS big moves

in the Middle East centre including the Royal Hall, Amman’s largest column free hall. Sami Jalil Janho, General Manager of AVS is very impressed of the features and the price/ value ratio of the new Digital Discussion System. After a short presentation, it was easy for him to convince the technical staff at Landmark. “Simple, affordable, flexible” – just three words are enough to describe the idea of the system.

DIS Technical seminar in aDawliah office in Riyadh

MIDDLE EAST: Danish Interpretation Systems, an aggressive conferencing solutions player in the Middle East, continues to make its impression stronger across the region. The company executed three dedicated technical seminar programmes on its winning combination of DDS 5900 and CP7851 between 10 and 12 September for the staff of aDawliah Electronic Appliances, DIS’s exclusive distributor in Saudi Arabia. The seminars were held at aDwaliah’s headquater in Al-Khobar, in Saudi’s capital Riyadh as well as in Jeddah. Over 40 select showroom managers, salesmen and technicians were given a thorough exposure to the new Digital Discussion System and the Camera Control Package.

aDawliah, who is also an exclusive SHURE distributor in Saudi Arabia for many years, is experienced in selling discussion systems, but what aDawliah staff learned about the new features of DDS 5900 during the seminars took them to new highs of expertise.

In his presentation, Product Support Engineer Steen Teglstrup showed the user benefits of DDS 5900 and how comfortable it can be to control a discussion system and cameras with an iPad. DIS at Landmark Amman

DIS Technical seminar in Jeddah

DIS at Landmark Amman: Advanced Solutions (AVS), exclusive distributor for DIS products in Jordan will provide three DDS 5900 Digital Discussion Systems to Landmark Hotel in Amman. The hotel is connected to a big conference

Chris Hellmuth, Area Sales Manager at DIS is very happy with AVS. “I’ve spent three days in Amman recently so I could see what AVS is capable of doing. AudioVisual business is still some kind of niche market there, and with their long-time experience in conferencing AVS is our first choice.”

According to Chris, Jordan as a neighbor of Syria which is a strife-stricken country for many months now, is facing hard times at the moment. He, however, was all in praise for Sami and his team who, he says, are doing an incredible job.

“Of course, they can count on our full support,” he added.

First DDS 5900 Systems sold in Egypt: In yet another interesting move, DIS saw its systems getting into yet another troubled market in the MENA regionthis time Egypt. TECO, still a fairly new partner of DIS has just placed their first order for two DDS 5900 system to be deployed in the Airotel Hotel in the Egyptian capital of Cairo. “The former analog CDS 4000 Discussion System has been sold pretty well in the ‘Country of Pyramids’ over the last 20 years, so the expectations to sell the new digital system – which is even cheaper – are said to be high! As the political situation in Egypt is turning to get better, DIS is very well prepared to deliver superior conference solutions to their local partner network,” adds Chris. www.dis.cc

Revolabs announces OEM Partnership with Business Octane INDIA: Revolabs Inc. has announced that the company has entered into an original equipment manufacturing (OEM) partnership with Business Octane, an Enterprise Collaboration and Learning Accelerator solution provider.

Through this partnership, Business Octane will extend its product line to include its own branded version of the Revolabs FLX™ wireless conference phone, which it will sell in the Indian market as the AltraTELECON™ conference phone.

The strategic OEM partnership will help Business Octane meet the audio conferencing needs of its customers' senior executives by providing exceptional audio quality and unmatched flexibility, while allowing Revolabs to extend its reach to more Global Fortune 500 and Indian multinational companies. In addition, Business Octane will have the ability to embed the FLX into its state-of-the-art Immersive Visual Collaboration solutions, including the AltraExecutiveVC™, AltraMobilizerVC™, AltraMobitrainerVC™, and CollaboratorMINIMAX™ to grow this segment further.

"Business Octane has built a strong foundation in the telepresence market in India and has become the provider of choice for many of the country's multinational companies," said Marc Cremer, COO at Revolabs. "Partnering with the company is a key move as we continue to extend the reach of our wireless audio solutions across the globe, and increase our presence with Global Fortune 500 companies."

"We are very excited to team up with the industry's wireless audio leader, a partnership that offers two key benefits for Business Octane and its customers," said Sanjay Bansal, chairman and managing director, Business Octane. "First, it bolsters our portfolio of Enterprise Audio Collaboration Accelerator solutions, helping us meet the need for highquality, hassle-free, and flexible IP/POTS audio conferencing that can be used at a desk and easily taken to a meeting table. In addition, it allows us to include these same benefits in our Immersive Visual Collaboration solutions."

For Business Octane's customers, the FLX combines wireless operation with high-quality wideband audio, 128-bit encryption, and integrated Bluetooth®. Unlike the single-component design of other solutions, the systems consist of several distinct components, giving users unprecedented freedom with respect to placement and accessibility of the speaker, microphones, and dial pad.

Because its dialer operates like a telephone for handset

calls, the FLX eliminates the need for a separate desk and conference phone. FLX is available with a variety of Revolabs microphones, including lapel, omnidirectional, and directional tabletop versions.

The Revolabs FLX integrates directly with most IP telephone switches following the SIP standard, enabling new features only available through digital switch environments, such as voicemail alerts and "do not disturb." The ideal unified communication technology, the FLX can also serve as the audio interface for virtually any major brand of video conferencing equipment. www.businessoctane.com www.revolabs.com

Simple Flexible New Digital Discussion System Visit Us at

ISE Stand #3-C111 www.dis.cc

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INDIA & ME NEWS SSystems Integration Asia December - January 2013

Epson India brings high-lumen, ultra-bright projector to India Technologies, and Abhijjet Singh of Genesis Integrated Technologies.

“This new line of ultra-bright projectors helps us provide even more options for customers with large or bright venue projection needs,” said Koichi Kubota, Director at Seiko Epson Corporation.

“This, in addition to delivering the extreme image quality and product reliability Epson is renowned for.”

The attentive audience at the Epson India meet

INDIA: Epson India – making a significant move, in line with its parent enterprise – introduced the company’s first high lumen, high performance ultra-bright projection system signaling its foray into large-venue projection segment and presentations in bright ambient conditions.

The company introduced two specific series as part of the initiative- EB-Z8000 Series, and the EB-Z10000 Series. The Z8000 Series has five models under the category- EB-Z8450WU; Z8455WU; Z8350WU; and Z8355W and Z8150 and the Z10000 category has two modelsZ1000 and Z1005.

These top-of-the-line projectors feature high brightness of up to 10,000 lumens, impeccable resolution of 1920 x 1200 pixels and high contrast ratio of 5,000:1 offer an unparalleled image quality at any bright ambient situation or large venues. That the projectors are outfitted with many advanced Epson home theatre projection technologies, they make up for excellent for video playback as well.

Built on Epson’s proprietary 3LCD technology, the projection models are also the world’s only systems to come with ‘Epson Original Cooling System,’

which uses a Peltier-effect heat exchange semiconductor circuit to cool the LCD panels to preserve brightness and picture quality. The intricate cooling system allows the projectors to withstand high temperatures generated by the dual lamp system.

The projection company made a big splash in Bengaluru recently to launch the new projection systems in front of a huge gathering comprising its dealers and distributors, but more importantly the AV consulting and integrating community.

“The initiative is in line with our thought process and vision about the market,” says N Sambamoorthy, Director-Sales & Marketing Epson India. “We believe that the large venue installation market in India is significant and likely to grow in the near future,” he said, adding “projectors are being increasingly used for concerts and public gatherings which are held both indoors and outdoors.

The new range of projectors being launched now is ideally suited to these applications.

According to Praveen Kumar (Corporate Sales) at Epson India, the systems have been well received by the consulting and SI community in Bengaluru. The system configuration and the benefits they bring – like particularly the edge-blending, and image quality – have appealed to the integration community.

Some of the important System Integrators who attended the programme included Kaushik Mukhopadhyay of Integrated Audio Visual, Sugunakar Naidu of Ideas Ahead, Rishab Kumblar of Spacematrix, SK Balu of Genesis, Boppanna of Resurgent

“There is a high degree of receptivity,” said Praveen, “we hope this translates into business,” he said, adding “we do believe the systems will make a paradigm shift in the market now.”

Harish AK of Epson flanked by Rishabh Kumblar of Spacematrix on left, and Kaushik Mukhopadhyay of IAV on right

The enthusiastic attendees watch the projectors in action

www.epson.co.in

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INDIA & ME INTERVIEW SSystems Integration Asia December - January 2013

Mastering the art of product manufacturing SIA: It’s the 70th Anniversary year for Epson in the running. What essentially has marked this journey and what’s the most impactful factor that characterises Epson?

There are very few projection brands in the world that can boast illustrious history, awe-inspiring technology breakthroughs, end-to-end manufacturing ownership, and commendable value systems.

Seiko Epson, perhaps, ranks in the first. Koichi Kubota, Director at the Japanese electronics giant, and also Chief Executive of its Visual Products Operations Division was in India recently to participate in a dedicated daylong event in celebration of Epson's 70th Anniversary.

SIA spoke to Kubota on various aspects characterizing Epson.

Kubota: Yes, it’s one of pride moment for us; not just that we have come this far, but also what we have achieved thus far. There have been many milestone developments in this journey of success and innovation. We have been known for our expertise in printing and LCD-based projection where we have our core proprietary technologies; we are actually credited with inventing and pioneering the LCD projection technology as many as over 20 years ago. Our journey of success is also marked by our development of Quartz watches, the watches as you see them today- much above from what it was known and seen earlier. There are of course many, like the world’s first hand-held computer etc. that have marked our journey. If we have to talk about the most impactful factor that characterises Epson….it has to be our participation in the Tokyo Olympics in 1964, because, at that time we invented many small printing systems, LCD panels for the watches and many other systems that have found wide spread usage at the Olympics. In a sense, the group got diversified into some critical domains of business that were found complementing one another. It may have partly contributed to the company’s character and vision in later years.

SIA: You have the SE15 Vision Statement, and you are in the midst of the Mid-range Business Plan, how much of that plan has been achieved?

Kubota: Generically said, we are pretty much in line with what the company top management has drawn up.

Talking about the projection and visual solutions that I’m concerned with, I can say that we have been constantly and consistently increasing our market share.

Our market share in projection business about 15 years ago was just around 12 percent; now we have around 25-26 percent. Of course, the goal is to have

more than 30 percent market share by 2015. That we still have two more years to go, we believe we will be able to touch that figure. We have initiated many programmes to help us achieve our targets.

SIA: Epson President Minoru Usui recently called for ‘return to core values’ by the company to handle its global positioning- what does it mean?

Please elaborate…

Kubota: I guess he might be referring to the need for our returning to our core technology values. While we have our unique proprietary technology tenet at the core of our product development process, we need to leverage that more and more to expand our business. At the core of our technology lies some vital characteristics - energy-saving; miniaturization, and precision. Actually, these tenets are what have defined and determined Epson’s approach to market.

In the current times of energy pressures and needs for customization, leveraging our core values becomes all the more relevant.

SIA: Epson’s core values are said to be Takumi (craftsmanship) and Monozukuri (the art and science of manufacturing)what’s so special about this? How would you differentiate this from the competition?

Kubota: Yes, there is a very critical difference. As you rightly pointed out, the two very words of Takumi and Monozukuri are the differentiators. In effect, right from conceptualizing the development of a particular product – may be in response to a gap in the market, or by looking into the future – till the completion of rolling out the same into a particular usage situation, every minute aspect is developed, engineered, and tested in-house – like a serious learning of an art – which gives us full control over every single aspect of the product manufacturing.

This helps us monitor development process meticulously and ensure a perfect product delivery. In the event of

a product falling short of its specified performance, we will know very easily the precise area of problem, and that helps us fix it much faster and easier.

As it is, as the feedback from our marketing people say, occasions of our attending on a problematic system is very very rare. For, as the two words say, we put craftsmanship and artistry into manufacturing.

Compared against this, most other manufacturers today outsource most of their component manufacture. Much of their product lines are ‘assembled’ not manufactured. Due to this, they do not have control on most processes; they can neither guarantee the release of a particular product, nor the precision of a component. In a problematic situation, this difference comes out telling. So, the reliability, precision, performance, and finally, the TCO- everything keeps Epson apart from the competition.

Moreover, whenever a great technology breakthrough happens, or our R&D comes up with a new direction, being in-house end-to-end helps us to be quick to grab it and see if we could leverage from it. Like I said, miniaturization has been an art, mastered by Epson; precision has been the hallmark of Epson craftsmanship.

SIA: Minoru Usui also said recently that “technology manufacturers are experiencing unprecedented change in competitive environment, and markets.” What does it mean? What changes is Epson experiencing?

Kubota: (Laughs!) I think our President was referring to the too many big and small manufacturers flooding the market place. Today, you don’t have to be a manufacturer to make a business out of a product. You can assemble them, like I said before, or you can trade them too. This does come with a price advantage, as you can price it low, based on the procurement pattern where risk is minimal. Moreover, because of this pricing pressure, assemblers can actually do with lower specifications to match the price but the product loses on quality.

Because of this, genuine manufacturers come under pressure. So, it’s a conscious

call on the manufacturers to strive for products of superior quality and reliability at lesser costs.

SIA: Epson has also identified wearable technology as its future growth area.

What exactly is that? Would you please elaborate?

Kubota: Yes, technology is growing, if not changing, by leaps and bounds every day, and so are its applications.

From being in the boxes and cases, it is getting onto human body. From what people used to work as multiple systems in separate fixed set-ups previously, today they are carrying them in the form of small gadgets and experiencing technology. It’s no longer carrying either; it’s just wearing. Even as experiments have been on, on how to make this happen softly and effectively, some systems have already come into market place, particularly in Japan. Epson does have a product line too in this direction – a headset that works with a microprojection technology – and we believe this is going to be one potential business domain. Hence the call.

SIA: Is it a thoughtful diversification or extension of your projection business?

Kubota: It can be both. For, it has the Epson’s artistry of miniaturization; the craftsmanship of fusing technology into a kind of utility service, and it has the potential to drive business. Again, it can be both consumer and professional, since the applications can range from entertainment to corporate.

SIA: Since the time Epson began making projectors, it struck very strongly to 3LCDs only. Why not DLPs and / or lasers?

Kubota: Yes, it is for very specific reasons. One - 3LCD technology is our own, and at the core of our projection manufacturing expertise; two - we do not believe digital projection at a similar level as the 3LCD gives better image quality and long-life to system; three - it’s cost-intensive too, and we do not want to burden the buyer just for the sake of fancy for digital.

The image quality of a 3LCD projector compared to that of a similar capacity digital projector has been found to be far more superior. Digital projector can give superior image if only it is of highend, and it comes with a huge expense.

This, clearly keeps our belief firm and right. We do see some remote changes of our considering laser projection considering the quality it promises, and the price it commands. However, for the present, we are sticking to our LCD ground very strongly.

SIA: Green is a big catchphrase of the industry today. What’s Epson’s take on this? What particular initiative does Epson have in place?

Kubota: Yes, we do have our initiatives on this. Just to recall what I said in the beginning, making energy-efficient products is part of our manufacturing psyche - so green charter have been with us even before the world began talking about it. Apart from the product manufacturing cycle, we do have several other practices that contribute to reducing carbon footprint.

SIA: Something about India- What is your take on the Indian Visual Solutions Industry? What strengths and weaknesses you feel are impacting its status?

Kubota: Indian visual solutions industry is growing, much faster than it was expected, and so are the opportunities.

The growth pattern may not match that elsewhere in the world but the market has tremendous potential which is waiting to be explored and capitalized on - which may be a reason for getting aggressive with our offering. Particularly segments like education and corporate have been showing impressive growth. www.epson.com

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INDIA & ME INSTALLATIONS Systems Integration Asia December - January 2013

Audio excellence in Vidya Pratishthan University's GaDiMa auditorium

With the full set up only featuring Bosch solutions operation and maintenance is a breeze Founded in 1972, Vidya Pratisthan University has been establishing itself as an institute of excellence and propagator of value-based education complemented by state-of-the-art technology. The school firmly believes that entertainment and co-curricular activities go hand in hand with the school syllabus to create a holistic form of education, and the revamp of GaDiMa auditorium is the perfect testament to that belief.

With the major facelift of the GaDiMa auditorium, a world class auditorium was beginning to take shape, which meant that the end-user needed a world-class audio system as well to complement the auditorium which seats more than 2000 people.

The end-user requirements were specific; the audio systems had to be user-friendly, functionally effective and aesthetically pleasing, which by no

measure was an easy task. This led the end-user to engage Vijay N Purandare as a consultant to this project due to his expertise in this area.

After much deliberation and evaluation, the end-user zeroed in on Bosch’s EV line of products, in view of its high quality, exceptional sound and slick aesthetics.

The EVA series of line array speakers, SX300 first ring speakers and ZxA5 monitor speakers astonished the enduser with their incredibly clear sound and beautiful design. The sleek outlook of

the speakers complemented the interior of the auditorium very well, enhancing the intended image of a world class facility. CPS 2.9 amplifiers were installed and Net Max System Controller was utilized to help manage all aspects of the professional sound systems in the auditorium. The ease of installation of the various systems also meant that a lot of time and effort was saved as well.

Customer experience was enhanced with high quality EV wireless hand held and Lapel Microphones.

The one-brand solution coupled with system management by Net Max controller made it very user-friendly for the end-user to operate and maintain the systems as a whole.

The systems were installed by Microline India Pvt Ltd. www.boschsecurity.co.in

Public Address Solutions for small businesses

Advantage Line Public Address Solutions by Bosch are the perfect cost-performance choice for small businesses, hotels, shops and schools. Available from local distributors, they meet all your needs for message and background music within a limited budget.

Advantage Line Public Address Solutions offer the right amount of features for your application while delivering the high quality and reliability you can rely on from any Bosch PA product. The portfolio includes ceiling, horn and cabinet loudspeakers, microphones and various mixing amplifiers. Quick and easy set-up, intuitive use and a host of other helpful features save you time, frustration and money. Check out the complete portfolio at www.boschsecurity.asia.

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INDIA & ME INSTALLATIONS SSystems Integration Asia December - January 2013 of perfectionists.”

Thus they brought the new Tannoy Q-Flex 32 speaker system to demonstrate in front of the Swamis.

The system was configured to reach the first row and continue till the last row uniformly. Saral Jeevan Swami, the main Swami at the mandir – while he was amazed at the sound quality of the unassuming slender column speakers – tested them repeatedly asking his devotees to hear him while moving all around the prayer hall.

Swaminarayan Mandir sounds perfect with Tannoy Q Flex 32 Hansa Pictures does the integration The BAPS Swaminarayan Sanstha – one of the most influential spiritual institutions in India – is known for its awe-inspiring temples and communication technologies. While the fascinating temples the institution builds across the world play testimony to this, a multitude of lesser grade worship places grace the globe. One such place of worship is the Bengaluru Swaminarayan Mandir.

The mandir (temple) – built at Rajajinagar Industrial Layout, features as its central focal point a prayer hall measuring 110 ft x 90 ft x 21ft. A pillar-less hall with marble flooring and gypsum ceiling surrounded by arches and pillars made of marble, the environment created a major acoustic challenge.

That it hosts spiritual discourses

by Swamis coming across from the country and outside, apart from regular devotional renditions, speech intelligibility compromise was a major concern. The management approached a wide spectrum of professional solution providers to address the problem.

Even as they were deliberating on the possible solution, architect Kunal of locally-based Kunal Architects – who actually designed the temple – happened to meet Gautam N Shah of Hansa Pictures at an event. Having seen

the mandir management trying in vain too many solutions, Kunal asked if Hansa could to something to resolve the issue.

“That’s how we got in,” explains Gautam. He visited the site and observed that the hall was indeed bad in terms of acoustics. While a perfect sound reinforcement was imperative there, the challenge was to do it without making any changes to the interiors - for, architecture and aesthetics were still a big thing.

Being an ardent fan and long-time user and believer of Tannoy, Gautam put the issue to Krishna Pratap Singh of Tannoy India. Looking at the site specs and brief, Krishna immediately came up with a solution. But he knew it couldn’t be sold just by the catalogue. That it was pretty new, and its performance needed to be demonstrated, Krishna and Gautam brought the systems to the site for a live demo.

“The Swaminarayan Sanstha doesn’t take anything on hearsay,” Krishna says, adding, “they are known to be the best

“Though the answer was ‘yes,’ it took four hours of testing,” recalls Gautam. A week later, they were summoned for yet another demo in front of the decisionmaking bastion of Swamis. That the day fell on Sunday, the hall had a capacity crowd, and posed a real test which lasted for eight hours.

The Swamis were pleased, and thus moved in the first Tannoy Q-Flex 32 into the country.

“The system is basically a combination of multiples of small drivers lined up in an array, self-powered and connected via a simple Cat 5 cable,” explains Gautam.

“The entire system is controlled by a software that helps configure sound throw in the given direction and space, by means of an intuitive BeamEngine GUI.” According to Krishna, the Q-Flex 32 brings in a very natural sound even as it weaves an overall intelligibility. Coming in six variants, the system can be custom chosen depending upon the specs and size of the space.

Hansa had complimented the audio solution by means of a combination of Soundcraft EPM-12 mixer and a few units of wired mics from Shure and Sennheiser.

While the devotees are generically happy with the audio experience, the Swamis were particularly pleased that the system helped their mandir sound perfectly, without tampering with its interiors. www.tannoy.com www.hansagroup.in

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EXHIBITION REVIEW SSystems Integration Asia December - January 2013

HOUSES OF WORSHIP TE

Asia’s Inaugural Exhibition and Conference for Houses of Worship Technologies, was staged from 4 – 6 October 2012, at the Marina Bay Sands Expo and Convention Center in Singapore.

The 3-day exhibition attracted some 2,468 visitors with 17% coming from overseas, many of whom were key decision makers in their respective organisations. The exhibition featured over 150 leading brands and companies from over 15 countries occupying a gross area of 5,000 sqm.

Held alongside the exhibition was a suite of 26 free product demonstrations and hands-on workshops carried out by the exhibitors, and a series of 17 comprehensive technology seminars (including basic, advanced and industry expert forums) conducted by leading industry experts.

“We were delighted with the results of this first launched event with positive feedback from both our exhibitors and visitors to the event. The educational

seminar and workshop was very well attended and there was great interest in the products from buyers of the houses of worship community from both Singapore and the Asian region,” said Ms. Rosalind Ng, Managing Director, Informa Exhibitions Pte Ltd. “Visitors were surprised to see such a wide range of equipment and technologies available to help upgrade their places of worship with the latest equipment and technologies,” commented Ms. Ng.

Exhibit Highlights Acoustic and Lighting with GlowUp and cool down

Acoustic and Lighting System showcased the Clay Paky GlowUp, a portable, battery-powered luminaire that removes the logistical headache of running cables at events and is also based on high-power LEDs. At 7.5kg, the GlowUp is easy to carry and can be recharged 2000 times without suffering from 'memory' or capacity loss. Also showcased at the booth was the ARRI L-Series which launched the L7-C, a fixture that incorporates the Fresnel characteristics of continuous focusability from spot to flood and a smooth homogenous light field. The L7-C is also able to provide the same ability of conventional Fresnels which is to shape beams to isolate talents and set elements, the only difference is the heat. The L7-C features a completely cool light beam, keeping talent comfortable and air conditioning costs low. www.acousticlighting.com

CHNOLOGIES ASIA 2012

e3 Audio features one of the smallest portable USB condenser microphone

GO mic, one of the smallest portable USB condenser microphone from the leading brand was on hand at e3 Audio LLP's stand this year. Designed for recording, and initially aimed at travelers, it can be used for just about anyone for almost any purpose. Users need just to clip it onto their notebooks or simply lay it on their desks to start, and with a plug and play operation it's completely compatible with a Mac OS or Windows, with no drivers required. For users seeking a full audio spectrum mic, the Meteor USB studio microphone was exhibited. The consumer based product is equipped with one of the largest condenser diaphragms and the cardioid pickup pattern, smooth frequency response and 16-bit, 44.1/48kHz resolution give professional audio results no matter the recording. www.samsontech.com

Presonus is more than just a mixer

With a booth that came with high expectations, Broadcast Professional highlighted among others, the Presonus StudioLive Mixers. A digital mixer that is also a sound interface to computers for multitrack recording. It talks to Apple iPads & iPhones through the computer for remote control & remote monitoring. It can work with products in the Firestudio family to increase the channel count. Presonus mixers have found favour with many Houses of Worship venues. www.broadcastpro.com.sg

“A well-executed exhibition cum conference with good publicity efforts! Overall, a positive start in connecting AV technologies vendors/ experts with end users in houses of worship.

The event encourages progressive learning and matches product selection to respective needs.

A successful inaugural show that is set to evolve with the fast changing landscape of technologies harnessed in enhancing houses of worship.�

Sarah Yan, Admin Manager, AV-Science Marketing Pte Ltd.

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EXHIBITION REVIEW SSystems Integration Asia December - January 2013

Sindo Export showcases array of solutions

The team at Sindo captured the attention of audiences with a range of solutions which included the Allen&Heath iLive – T80, which has an audio rack built into it to conveniently provide local inputs and outputs at the mix position; the QSC K series active loudspeakers which are lightweight portable powered speakers with the legendary QSC amplifier power and reliability and also the ESM range from KV2 which included a compact vocal monitor, the ESM26, with a sensitivity of 98dB@1 watt and can deliver a peak output of 126dB while retaining pristine sound reproduction. www.sindoexport.com

Blown away by brilliant visuals

During the 3-day event, the Systems Integration Asia team could not help but be captivated by the Sapphiron Solstice Screen exhibited directly across from our booth.

The team at Mopix Pte Ltd, tantalised audiences with snippets of blockbusters in order to showcase the quality of their product. And it was a good move as there was a crowd surrounding the booth throughout the 3 days. The Screen has a brightness enhancement of 18 times which is among the highest in the industry and ranges in sizes of 82 – 200 inches. Coupled with the LG CF181D which provides a contrast ratio of 35,000 : 1, the Mopix booth definitely impressed visitors and exhibitors alike. www.mopixscreens.com

IMS Mahajak focuses on personalised needs

The team from IMS Mahajak Pro Audio were all smiles throughout the 3-days, and when probed simply said 'Houses of Worship visitors know what they want'. With a wide range of visitors, the team was most impressed with the knowledge most of the guests possessed and many had already done their own research before even attending the event. Though a number of consoles were featured, IMS Mahajak, like few others, were more concerned with building a presence. They wanted to get to know the visitors, to find out what they could give them as well as what the guests could help the team with. To do this, there were no volunteers at the booth, only trained technical staff so all visitors could get a one-on-one with a trained professional. www.imsproaudio.com

“The courses that I have attended with my colleague were very interesting and we have learnt a lot from the experienced speakers who shared their knowledge with us.”

Wanazman Bin Abdul Aziz, Audio Visual Technician, Tanglin Trust School, Singapore.

Defining Synergy

When asked what they were exhibiting this year, Henry coyly replied, “we are exhibiting the definition of Synergy.” This was translated to mean, it was not so much about products for this booth, it was more about people. Synergy meant to show users and industry-leaders alike that the name was more about building relationships rather than spending money. There was never a quiet moment at the booth. Guests and industry kin were attracted to the warmth that Synergy exuded. www.synergyavl.com

ZZZ GEDXGLR FRP

Knowing the whole picture ...

... of a temple, the xS and xA-Series loudspeakers from the d&b White range are focussed on clarity, transparency and intelligibility, they concentrate on controlled even coverage to deliver the message, are optically compliant and even Ă H[LELOLW\ LV QR HPSW\ WDON ,Q VKRUW ZKHQ LW FRPHV WR WHPSOH style applications d&b is in the frame.

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EXHIBITION REVIEW SSystems Integration Asia December - January 2013

“HOW Event has been a fun and enriching event. Through the event, we got to know new contacts and met many existing contacts which were convenient for us as they were all gathered here in this event. We hope that there will be such an event next year as well.”

Wilson Goh, Business Development Executive, Active Visual Pte Ltd. Mahajak SKM attracts with Soundcraft and JBL

The Si Performer from Soundcraft was the main attraction for the Mahajak SKM Electronics Pte Ltd team. An audio mixer equipped with lighting capabilities, the Si Performer is targeted towards churches and the unique design allows users to replace lighting mixers with an all-in-one product. Also highlighted was the JBL line array VTX series, specifically the VTX V25. Released at the beginning of 2012, the response of the V25 has been positive especially since it comes with new presets, sounds and drivers. www.mahajakskm.com

Integration and customization at VSolutions

Vsolutions Pte Ltd showcased the Cantemo Portal, an off-the-shelf Digital Asset Management system for 5-60 seat work groups which provides support for a comprehensive list of essential media workflows ready to integrate. With features such as a customizable interface and the ability to expand the system with new feature-sets and integration points, the product seems to be made to cater specifically to the customers' real needs. www.vsolutions.tv

Simplicity is key with Cooper Controls

The EtherN.8 RDM from Cooper Controls and showcased by local distributor Lighting Controls Pte Ltd, offers flexible Ethernet to DMX/RDM data conversion in a 19” format. Up to 8 universes of Art-Net DMX/RDM data can be output from the EtherN.8 RDM to a lighting system. The unit is configured through an internal web server or via optional control software Fully compatible with the latest RDM protocol, the EtherN.8 helps users get their DMX distribution networks ready to meet future demands. www.coopercontrol.com www.lightingcontrols.com.sg

Philips Entertainment introduces Showline

Showline is a range of super-efficient professional entertainment LED fixtures created specifically for a broad spectrum of events. Making up Showline were the SL BAR 640 and 660, SL Band 300, SL STRIP 400 and SL WASH 180. All Showline luminaires are designed to work seamlessly together to match color, dimming and operation. At the heart of all Showline products is Philips Harmonize calibration technology. Harmonize is a proprietary, advanced LED colour matching system, consisting of 3 correction modules: RGB, RGBW and Cool Whilte/Warm White. Other core funtionalities include Colour LCD menu, DMX protocol and RDM configuration that allows access to a broad range of important features. www.philips.com/showline

South East Asia’s Leading International Professional Audio, Lighting, AV, Systems Integration, Music Software and Entertainment Technology Exhibition

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EXHIBITION REVIEW Systems Integration Asia December - January 2013

Total Solution provides hands-on experience for students

Total Solution Marketing took the opportunity to provide students from Nanyang Polytechnic hands-on experience at its booth. The Polytechnic had purchased the Coolux Pandoras Box media servers as part of its Audio Visual Design Elective programme that is offered to final year students reading the Diploma in Electronics, Computer & Communications Engineering. The Polytechnic had purchased 5 Pandoras Box Servers and 2 Quad Players. In addition, 12 offline managers were also acquired to allow students to have more hands-on opportunities and programming experience. Malcolm Murugan, Assistant Manager, School of Engineering at the Nanyang Polytechnic comments, “The students are very excited about the hands-on opportunity. It allows them to visualise and see what they have created.”

At the booth the students manned and showcased the abilities of the Pandoras Box media servers with help from technical staff of Total Solution as well as representatives from Coolux. Tevin Heng, Executive Director at Total Solution Marketing comments, “We actively collaborate with the polytechnic not only by training the lecturers alone but we further assist by conducting classes for their students. We at Total Solution strongly believe that such collaborations will benefit the industry as a whole when these students graduate and join the workforce. Hopefully by providing them with the opportunity to be involved in an industry exhibition, it will inspire the students to further their career aspirations with our industry.” www.tsm-int.com

Bose showcases its first indoor Array speaker

Bose believes that their indoor RoomMatch Array module paired with the PowerMatch amplifier is the perfect complement to the church environment as it offers very good speech intelligibility. Patented new Bose transducers combine to deliver the vocal clarity of 3-way systems with the improved polar response typical of 2-way systems. The speaker features a new class of curvilinear array in which the coverage and directivity index of each module is selected to optimize room coverage and system efficiency. Bose's RoomMatch™ waveguide technology allows the arrays to be tweaked to 5 vertical and 4 horizontal coverage pattern choices to direct sound precisely to desired listening areas, improving audio quality by reducing unwanted acoustic reflections. The Bose solutions were shown at the Solvis Pte Ltd booth. Sovis is a subsidiary of Atlas Sound & Vision Pte Ltd. www.atlas-sv.com

Quad Professional goes back to its roots

When Quad Professional was set up 3 years ago, its main focus was the Houses of Worship segment. Thus not surprisingly having been focused in the segment, the company had a great exhibition. Occupying a 6 x 13 sqm space, Quad showcased its various solutions including the Midas consoles, ICTC stage and Clair Brothers speakers. Quad also took advantage of the exhibition to launch the Midas PRO1 and Venice U consoles. To top it off the company managed to sell Midas Pro1 and Pro2 consoles as well as over 50 DIs during the exhibition. www.quadpro.com.sg

“I must admit that I did not have high expectations but the response has been very good. I am impressed with the quality and amount of professionalism that was exhibited along with the products. People talk to us about the usage rather than the products themselves. HOW has a future and should definitely keep going.”

Fabiano Besio, Co-Founder, LDR.

E&E conducts successful microphone seminar

E&E took advantage of the exhibition to conduct seminars on microphones with the first day of the show dedicated to a two hour presentation about the different types of microphones and on basic microphone techniques. The second day saw E&E present the new SHURE ULX-D Digital Wireless System and the new SHURE Centraverse™ (CV) Installed Microphone Series. A latter session was dedicated to the introduction of the new SHURE wireless Axient™ system. All the seminars saw a very good turnout of participants.

Capturing the attention of many attendees was AV Media's edge blending AbtUS processor with 3D projection capabilities.

www.enepl.com.sg

Mackie's DL1608 redefines live mixing

Also featured at the E&E booth was the Mackie DL1608 that is said to redefine live mixing by combining the proven power of a full-featured digital mixer with the unmatched ease and mobility of an iPad. With 16 boutique-quality Onyx mic preamps and the performance of 24bit Cirrus Logic AD/DA converters, it promises unparalled sound quality. Being seamlessly wired to wireless iPad controls allows users to mix from anywhere in the venue providing them with the freedom to control not only the mix, but also powerful plug-ins like EQ, dynamics, effects and more.

The AV Science booth was packed with solutions including Draper screens, MIPRO portable speakers as well as Hitachi interactive projectors amongst other solutions.

www.enepl.com.sg "The case studies are very interesting as we can learn most from the experience of others. Other key take backs from the HOW seminars are that we get to know the speakers and network with other attendees from the industry.”

Moho Setiya Putra, Head Department Multimedia, Bethany Church Indonesia.

The Bosch booth featured their EV range of speakers, Public Address solutions as well as their RTS Intercom systems

Training and sales feature at Yamaha booth

“Overall the show was good. There was a good mix of SIs, consultants as well as members from the worship community” said Lawrence Tan, Assistant General Manager of PA/CA Marketing, Yamaha Music (Asia) Pte Ltd. The exhibition allowed Yamaha to conduct short trainings of their consoles to church volunteers as well as enabled Yamaha to finalise orders for their CL1 and CL3 Yamaha consoles to both churches and non-houses of worship clients. sg.yamaha.com

ESCO Pte Ltd showcased more of their abilities as a complete infocomm solutions company providing comprehensive documentation, quality engineering and design, project management, on-site managing services and after sales services.

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EXHIBITION REVIEW SSystems Integration Asia December - January 2013

InfoComm MEA 2012: Exhibition with a Relevance Chord

by Ram Bhavanashi

InfoComm MEA 2012, the second edition of InfoComm International’s tradeshow and convention, while being a slow starter, did appear a steady and sure winner. While there may be a slew of reasons for being (s)low, there appeared as many, if not more, factors that seemingly brought more energy into the cause. The overall general view was reassuringly positive.SIA tries to present an account of the five-day event.

Even as we sat down to finetune the lead draft of our InfoCommMEA 2012 review, we got this update- straight from InfoCommAsia Pte Ltd, the organisers of the exhibition: “This year’s InfoComm MEA, which ended its 5-day run at the Dubai World Trade Centre on 18 October, enjoyed an unintended benefit.

The hall location away from the main traffic flow meant that some visitors missed the event, but by the same token, those who made their way there were decidedly more focused on Pro-AV solutions.”

This held true for many exhibitors as well as visitors.

Hosny M Rafaat, Business Development Manager at the Doha, Qatar-based Salam Media Cast even got his clients to meet him at the Show. “A lot of my customers have been asking me about the latest digital wireless microphone system. So I arranged to meet with my clients here at the show, to take a look, feel and try out the products, and at

the same time discuss how we could integrate this as a solution for their business needs.”

Rafaat wasn’t the only one. P S Tiwari, Regional Manager (IMEA) at ClearOne got Jeevan, a decision-making executive with Almasa Group who distributes ClearOne’s products in the region, do a long walk from the GITEX side to the InfoComm side to discuss business.

For Swadesh Khetawat, Managing Director of Dubai-based TaxanGulf, who distributes both ClearOne and Revolabs products besides many, the event has been as exciting as any other. “We were able to interact with some of our most potential clients. InfoCommMEA is an important event for us, we are happy the way it went for us,” he said.

The most emphatic of the happy lot was, however, Gautam Chakrabarty, Deputy General Manager-Marketing (Business Solutions Division) at Sharp Middle East

FZE. “For us, this year show is better than last year. We had tremendous response to our products; very high quality visitors, and a substantial number of business enquiries,” he said. “We actually closed some important deals too,” Gautam said, adding, “we hope to make it even bigger and better next time.”

First-timers’ Excitement

The second edition of InfoComm MEA had three very important first timers: VTRON, Prsym and Tannoy. VTRON made multiple showcases of its expertise at the event – at the reception, as well as on different stands – while Prysm took one of the bigger stands. “There has been a steady stream of visitors at our stand, which generated a good amount of high quality leads,” Prysm’s VP for Europe, Africa and Middle East, Steve Scorse said. “We met with the right people from governmental and large scale projects,” he said, adding “this, we hope, will augur well for us in the region.”

Adding to the enthusiasm was Akiko Man, Marketing Manager who said, “The customers we interacted with are extremely valuable to VTRON to step into the Middle East market and we look forward to doing more.”

Tannoy, another major draw at the InfoComm MEA 2012, was also apparently happy with the exhibition.

Their stand comprising the VX and VXP speakers, and IDEENA power amplifier from Lab.Gruppen did attract quite a few pairs of eyes.

Exhibitors generically noted that although the number of visitors was lower than last year, they have had meaningful discussions and relevant contacts at their booths. A total of 12,023 visitors attended the show this year.

“We did notice the moods set over the exhibitors, and did note their feedback,” said Richard Tan, General Manager at InfoCommAsia Pte Ltd. Candid as he is, Richard said they picked up some very important pointers from the event. The positive feedback from both exhibitors and visitors attests to the strong market potential for the AV industry in the MEA region. “This serves to strengthen our resolve to continue building on the success and goodwill that the InfoComm events have garnered in the industry.

We will work hard to deliver effective platforms that will help thrust the industry towards higher growth.”

Analog Way shows the way with award-winning Eikos

French AV gear manufacturer Analog Way followed up its last year’s participation at the InfoComm MEA this year with its award-winning multi-layer, high-resolution mixer matrix seamless scaler. Eikos, or the EKS500, which was actually launched at InfoComm USA

and showcased to the Middle East markets for the first time. Coming with four scalers, and designed for high-end AV presentations, the Eikos features a DVI-D, universal analog, and SD/HD-SDI inputs. Equipped with analog and digital outputs (main and preview) it offers RGBHV, DVI, SD/HD-TV analog, and SD/ HD-SDI outputs, and supports SDTV, EDTV, HDTV, and computer formats up to 2K. The EKS500 also features a large graphic VFD screen with control knobs and buttons offering easy and fast access to menus and adjustments. The multilayer seamless switcher also comes with many pre-programmed features and offers three operating modes: multi-layer mixer, 12 by 2 seamless native matrix, and quadravision modes.

operation making it very installer and user-friendly.

In addition PMR4000R can be controlled via an iPad, iPhone or iPod Touch. www.apartaudio.com

Arrive showcases ‘touchyour-future’ collaborative suite

www.analogway.com

Apart Audio brings new solutions to Middle East

Belgian audio major Apart Audio took to the Middle East markets with a wide range of speaker solutions for diverse applications. The solutions included both indoor and outdoor systems, and those with rugged, as well as aesthetic features. While majority of exhibits comprised the CMR and CMS in-wall and in-ceiling speakers, they also had other outdoor systems meant for rugged application. One of the exhibit highlights is the new VINCI 5-BL, a fabulous and prestigious loudspeaker offering outstanding performance and value for money. With their unique design and breathtaking sound purity, the VINCI 5-BL loudspeakers are claimed to be the right choice to create the perfect ambience.

Apart also exhibited the PMR4000R- a professional multi source music player that features a menu guided setup and

Arrive Limited, a Group-concern of Visionnaire – a pioneer of innovative and green ICT solutions - launched its Rave brand of collaborative multi-touch products at Infocomm MEA 2012. The multi-user collaborative multi-touch technologies (MUMT) offer a complete range of projected and display based multi-touch surfaces, which can be used to create very large format , extended touch displays, interactive table and surfaces such as interactive walls.

“The MUMT recognition enables humans to interface with a computer and interact naturally without holding any mechanical device,” states Aseem Gupta, President of Arrive Limited. “Using this concept, it is possible to use multiple fingers of several users to interact simultaneously on the display screen and perform collaborative functions. This could potentially make conventional input devices such as mouse and keyboards redundant”.

According to him, the technology is currently largely confined to small ‘smart devices’ such as mobile phones and tablets and mid-sized display screens with limited multi-touch capability. “We are taking this to a whole new level,” he says, adding, “it’s a whole new experience, like ‘Touch-Your-Future.’”

The company showcased the concept

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EXHIBITION REVIEW SSystems Integration Asia December - January 2013

with a 32 touch point 65” multi-touch meeting table; dual touch media wall; interactive whiteboards; free standing touch kiosks and touch interactive room signage systems.

helps the industry know the pulse of the market. “For us, it’s good, for, it helps us meet our partners and dealers who actually help us know the market.” www.barco.com

The platform offers unique capabilities, which allow product and concept developers to offer a wide variety of applications to suit integration with furniture, walls, floors and free standing applications. “We can stretch our MUMT system to spread across 10 meters of contiguous displays with a single computer connection managing multi-user multi-touch at 40 points simultaneously,” explains Gupta.

“We are of the firm belief that everything that needs collaborative human interaction will be multi-user touch based in the not-too-distant future,” he adds. www.arrivesys.com

Barco showcases its OverView OVL videowalls

Barix AG demonstrates its communications expertise

having to buy additional equipment.

Dave was particular about the new Server-IO. The system allows for up to 48 channels of I/O, 1 DSP-2 card plus capacity for two more. Besides, it also provides for an AVB-1 Card, and up to two SCM-1 CobraNet Cards.

The on-board DSP features a new Biamp algorithm SpeechSense, which enhances speech processing by more accurately distinguishing between human speech and noise. “Flexibility with performance is the criteria,” says Dave.

“It’s good to be part of such an important show. We have seen some very quality people walking in. It’s worthwhile to be here,” adds Dave. www.biamp.com

IP-based communications and control technology solutions provider Barix AG demonstrated a whole range of its latest, and popular systems at the exhibition including the Annuncicom series. “The products are not entirely new for the global markets,” said Marcel van der Meijs, VP-Sales at Barix. “However, they are new to the Middle East market,” he said adding, “they have been upgraded to be more compact in size while staying equally sturdy and performing equally good.”

Comm Product forays into Control Panels; introduces Wizpanel

www.barix.com

Visual solutions major Barco took to InfoComm MEA this time to promote its latest control room solutions for the surveillance field. The company showcased its high-grade OverView OVL-815 LED-lit video wall modules, as well as OLS-521 video wall displays with 3D capability. The company’s exhibits were also highlighted by the singleclick meeting room presentation system ClickShare while other exhibits included the control management software.

“Middle East markets have always been important for us,” said Eric Brouwers, Regional Director at Barco for the Middle East and North Africa region. According to him, InfoComm MEA is an important platform that presents the market with the latest industry offerings while it

Biamp exhibits new Tesira series to Arab markets

InfoComm MEA 2012 was very very special for Comm Products Technologies.

For the Singapore-based AV gear maker demonstrated its foray into touch/control panel manufacture with its maiden, touch-screen control WizPanel-1.

Incredibly small in size to fit into one’s palm, and promising to deliver the same number and quality of functions as those highly popular with the market today, the new WizPanel-1 is also promised to be incomparably cheaper.

Biamp Systems, who have a new regional executive Dave Nazir taking over the reigns for the region, brought to market its popular and upgraded Tesira server systems. Staying at the centre of any media system in a typical AV install, the system allows for adding more components and capabilities without

The Touch Screen Control WizPanel-1 has 16 Capacitive Touch Switches. The device comes with built-in processor, IR learner, 2 RS232, 2 RS485 and 2 IR ports.

The icons on the touch panel can be redesigned to one’s specific requirements, with backlight button controls. The software is equally easy to programme

by connecting the RS232 Cable to the USB Cable.

“It performs all the functions found in conventional touch panels available in the market today, but at a fraction of a cost of the cheapest panel, ” says Leong Kar Fatt, General Manager at Comm Products.

“It’s been our wish for a long time to foray into the touch panel market,” says Jason Tan, CEO of Comm Products. “The market for touch panels is too huge, and there are very few players,” he said adding “which was why we wanted to get into it.” According to Jason, the touch panel market is still very price intensive, and thus offered tremendous potential for economic solution providers. Comm Products intends to fill that gap. www.commproduct.com

Crestron unveils new control, automation solutions

As usual, Crestron occupied one of the prime and largest spreads in the exhibition showcasing a whole big range of new products and solutions, besides upgrades to the existing popular series.

The company’s show was highlighted by an eye-catching demo of the new TSW-750 touch panel; CLW1 in-wall dimmers; and energy efficient CLED LED fixtures. The company also showcased its ambitious solution Capture HD, besides the upgraded Digital Media product line. The TSW-750 is a space-saving surface mount touch screen featuring a clean, contemporary appearance with edge-to-edge glass and Core 3 UI graphics. Additional features include high-performance H.264 video, Rava, SIP intercom, and standard gangbox installation. Crestron’s new high

definition lecture-capture device system for university and corporate campuses CaptureHD system seemed to grab a lot of visitor’s attention while the CLW1 in-wall lighting control and the CLED energy-efficient lighting fixtures also contributed to visitor’s attention.

“The CaptureHD is indeed an important new generation offering from Crestron,” Simon Clarke, Crestron’s Marketing Manager for EMEA, said. “It’s a simple one-button solution to schedule, record, publish online, as well as view lectures, presentations, medical procedures, seminars, and many more.”

The CLW1 in-wall lighting control features engravable and field customizable buttons, alongside InfiNET EX communications, while the CLED 100/200 are not only energy-efficient, but also cost-effective with exceptional warmth of light and consistency.

Further on display was a stacked configuration of the new d&b V-Series comprising of two V12 loudspeakers and two V subwoofers with d&b’s patented passive cardioid subwoofer technology.

“The market in Dubai and the surrounding Gulf States has matured considerably in the last three years” concluded Thomas Hedrich, d&b’s Regional Manager for the Middle East, “we now see really serious professionals focused on quality. The White range is exactly that, for integrators it brings a comprehensive set of solutions ideally suited to clients that demand the highest quality.” www.dbaudio.com

Da-lite brings new IDEA to Middle East training, meeting rooms

www.crestron.com

Determined d&b audiotechnik revisits InfoCommMEA

Thomas Hedrich, with d&b sales exec Amrith Verghese, and Chadi El Masri of Lightbox Professional, d&b dealer for the region

With a firm focus on the integration features of its product range, d&b audiotechnik GmbH along with its local distributor Lightbox Professional have revisited InfoComm Dubai with considered determination. The company demoed the White range loudspeakers with high quality sound. Highlight of the stand, however, were the dedicated d&b D12 and D6 amplifiers with their comprehensive on-board DSP control functions for loudspeaker configuration and sophisticated protection.

Da-Lite’s IDEA is an Interactive dry erase application (IDEA) screen – a revolutionary dual-purpose projection screen and writable marker board combination, ideal for use with interactive short throw projectors. The IDEA Screen is designed to be wallmounted and, will integrate seamlessly into any classroom, training room and meeting space. With a gain of 2.5, and 25 degrees viewing half-angle, the proprietary Da-Lite projection surface facilitates showing images with superior quality while maintaining the form and functionality of a marker board. “The beauty of this IDEAted screen is that it can also be written over with dry-erase markers, and hence the name,” explains Adam Teevan of Da-Lite. www.da-lite.com

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EXHIBITION REVIEW SSystems Integration Asia December - January 2013

WATCHOUT the new experience, says Dataton

launch of its highly anticipated flagship projector, the Titan Super Quad.

Swedish image processing and control specialist Dataton brought their WATCHOUT multiple image and display software to the Middle East at InfoComm MEA 2012. It is a fully scalable system that’s software based and does not require any 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.

The new model, specially designed for large venues and commercial applications, is the latest member of the acclaimed Titan family of projectors and is one of a broad range of projectors available from the brand. The 40-kg unit, claimed to be 40 percent smaller than its rivals, also features high light output rated at 20,000 lumens, with lamp life claimed at 8,000 hours. “The feature roster is wide, and includes Multinode Warp and Edge Blend plus Active Shutter 3D,” explains Ciaran Doran, responsible for DPI’s international sales and marketing in EMEA. “The Titan Super Quad also claims the best noise regulation on the market, with advanced liquid cooling and dynamic thermal control,” he explains, adding “all 18 fans are individually regulated allowing for a great cooling effect and long life with optimum performance.”

According to Dataton Marketing Director, Fredrik Svahnberg, WATCHOUT comes with a slew of revolutionary features such as Video streaming and interactivity; Live presentation and Stereo playback and management of multiple outputs.

“The Middle East has typically been a region that uses WATCHOUT in new and exciting ways,” says Fredrik.

“That the region has been brimming with tremendous opportunities in the education sector, the new WATCHOUT offering can usher in a new experience altogether.”

“The Middle East markets are opening up far and wide and quite fast too, and offering great potential, particularly with large scale events,” says Mark Wadsworth DPI’s international marketing manager. “We felt it was the right time and place to bring something like the Super Quad. We did get tremendous response too.”

CDA, CUA, CAA packages, besides the popular DDS5900 Web Interface.

Visitors had the opportunity to ‘play’ with DDS 5900 components, the CP 7851 camera control package running on Apple’s iPad and/or latest release of the web browser which can even display different languages now. “We also have on display, the hitherto kept secret, new Control Unit (CU) for the DSC 6000 digital conference system,” said Christopher Hellmuth, Area Sales Manager for DIS. The four analog outputs can be assigned for the interpreted languages, for recording or for an external PA. Same as in the “small” DDS 5900 system, several settings on the new DCS 6000 CU’s can now be adjusted and controlled via web browser.

“DIS has always been active in the region, and InfoComm MEA automatically falls into our action zone,” says Hellmuth. “We had good response from our visitors too; they often get very inquisitive. We will continue to offer and improvise on our solutions.” www.dis.cc

Extron Electronics showcases range of hardware and software solutions

www.digitalprojection.co.uk

DIS demonstrates digital conferencing solutions

www.dataton.com

Digital Projection launches Titan SuperQuad projector

Digital Projection International made a big splash at InfoComm MEA with the

Danish Interpretation Systems (DIS), celebrating their 60th anniversary, brought a whole wide range of hardware and software solutions to the InfoComm MEA 2012 show floor.

The systems shown included the

Extron Electronics brought to the show floor at the InfoComm MEA 2012 a whole big range in both hardware and software. The exhibits on the stand included XTP Systems; HDCP-compliant DVS 605 Scalers; SME-100, the H.264 encoder for ProAV systems integration; VN Matrix 225 Series that promises real time high resolution AV streaming over IP; and the fancied Touchlink panels that promise fully configurable touchpanels.

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EXHIBITION REVIEW SSystems Integration Asia December - January 2013

One of the key highlights was the Global Configurator Professional. According to Wilfred de Nijs, Director of Product Marketing for Europe, the solution offers an integrated environment for defining advanced AV control system functionality from an easy-to-use GUI. Powerful features, such as controller groups and conditional logic, provide greater flexibility for more elaborate control system designs.

Another important exhibit on the Extron stand was the SM3, a compact, fastinstalling flush mount speaker featuring the SpeedMount System. Contractors can install a 0° or 10° mounting plate on the wall and terminate the speaker cable to the mount’s integrated wiring contacts. Later, installers can slide the SM 3 speaker onto the mount and secure it into place with a “click,” while automatically connecting to the wiring contacts.

“Extron has always been an active player in the Middle East markets, and platforms like InfoComm MEA have always been important to us,” Nijs, said, adding, “we will continue to come up with improvised solutions to this demanding market.” www.extron.com

annotate as well as collaborate on video and desktop streams.

Said to be ideal for any enterprise employing video streams for distributed teams, Canvas brings a slew of benefits to places such as traffic management centers, public transport stations, electrical and water utilities, private and public security, law enforcement, emergency operations centers, telecom and data NOCs, and refineries, among others.

“Canvas is now a very important, topof-the-line offering from Jupiter,” said Aravind Nagarajan, Director-Product Management at Jupiter Systems. “It’s been there in the US market since the InfoComm USA,” he said, adding, “it is being introduced to the Middle East markets now, and we go on ….”

The Middle East, given its massive strides in education and oil and telecom segments as well as the public transport system, offers tremendous potential for AV, and Jupiter solutions, opines Aravind. www.jupiter.com

Lightware Visual Engineering highlights Modex

Jupiter gives a new CANVAS to the Middle East AV

tomorrow’s, video connection types by switching the connection type module in the Transmitter or Receiver.

To customize MODEX, users choose a media core (single or duplex fiber or CAT5/6/7 twisted pair cable), select one or two video and audio modules (analog VGA, Interlaced Composite Video, DVI, dual-link DVI, HDMI 1.4 with 3D, SDI, 3G-SDI and Displayport 1.1 or 1.2) and choose up to four interface modules for Ethernet, control or optional audio.

MODEX is then ready to use.

The technology built into the MODEX family breaks many standard limitations allowing 60-meter DVI cable compensation on inputs; advanced EDID management; pixel-accurate reclocking; LAN, RS-232, RS-422 and USB control; fiber cable powering and more.

MODEX comes in 1/2 rack width and full rack width RU frames. The full rack width extender has the bigger media core, which allows two video and audio modules and four interface modules. The front panel has an additional 10/100/1000 Mbps ethernet port and USB KVM connectors. The half-rack width extender has the same functionality but allows one video and audio module and two interface modules; its front panel has an additional 10/100 Mbps ethernet port and USB KVM connectors. Both size frames may be either a video transmitter or receiver depending on the installed video and audio module. www.lightware.eu

Jupiter Systems took to InfoComm MEA 2012 with its latest multipoint visualization and collaboration solution, Canvas, originally launched at InfoComm USA. The revolutionary Canvas system allows users in a control room, across campus, and around the world to see, share,

Budapest-based Lightware Visual Engineering products showcased its Modex, its modular signal extender.

Modex can work in tandem with Lightware’s new 25G Hybrid line of digital matrix switchers or act as standalone extenders offering flexibility to users who need to transport digital and analog video, audio or data signals over a single Cat5/6/7 cable or fiber.

MODEX eliminates the need to invest in discrete units for different types of connections. One MODEX TX/RX pair can send any and all of today’s, and

Mindstec Distribution makes a mega show with big brands

Mike Abernathy of Mitek Communications Group

explains Mike. The loudspeaker solutions include the FAT Series and more.

“We have done couple of projects before here, and found the market very encouraging; but we did not have a strong presence,” Mike said, adding, “in Mindstec, we found a strong partner who could give us good market pitch, and thus we are here.”

Aaron of Gefen with Wahab of Mindstec

Mark Phillips of RDL

Taking one of the largest spaces in the middle of the tradeshow floor, Mindstec Distribution took to the InfoComm MEA 2012 with a big splash introducing as many as four big brands: Atlas Sound, Gefen, Magenta Research and Radio Design Labs.

Atlas Sound which has been known for its multi-product ranges in audio solutions introduced three important segments to the region- its IP-based Paging Solutions; Sound-masking for speech privacy; and loudspeakers. “Our IP-based paging solutions are best represented here by the Controlkom,” explained Mike Abernathy, responsible for International Sales and National Distribution at Atlas Sound. The Controlkom allows for live, prerecorded, or ad hoc messages along with control data to be sent over existing or new multicast enabled local area networks to Atlas Sound IP speaker, and zone controller end points powered by AF compliant POE switches (or local DC power). It incorporates solutions for the task of managing campus-wide messaging, bell scheduling, security, synchronizing clocks, intercom/paging, and much more. “We do have a range of soundmasking speaker solutions that avoid the pink noise and sound distortion, giving exact speech privacy,”

In September, Gefen appointed Mindstec as their distributor for the Saudi and Qatar market. On exhibit were Gefen’s KVM over IP solutions.

Magenta introduced new additions to its Voyager and MultiView lines, its core product ranges that offer complete, endto-end solutions for fiber and UTP-based signal switching and distribution. The centerpiece of Magenta’s exhibits was a live Voyager switching demonstration, designed to show attendees just how fast a Voyager VG-Matrix switch can shift between different types of video sources, even those with HDCP. This advancement eliminates the widespread problem of a typical system negotiating with a video source, which results in blank or black screens being displayed to end users.

The other important launch by Magenta at the InfoCommMEA 2012 are the upgrades to Magenta’s venerable MultiView series, which has served — for over 10 years — as the most adaptable solution for distribution of Pro-AV signals over UTP cable. MultiView II enhancements are all designed to make it even easier to deliver 1080p resolution (and higher) video with best-in-class performance at distances to 2,000 feet.

Best of all, now MultiView does digital.

Even with a copper infrastructure, it is now possible to send 1080p DVI video to 2,000 feet away, thanks to Magenta’s proprietary method of transmission over twisted pair.

RDL introduced a slew of product lines that included pre-amplifiers, microphones and power amplifiers and transmitters. “This is our first major relationship in the region,” said Mark Phillips of RDL. “We found in Mindstec the ability to invest; complement our

efforts,” he said and added, “we have a whole range of products that, done the right way, will enhance the experience of the user the way they are supposed to.

We believe Mindstec has the ability to do it.” www.atlassound.com www.gefen.com www.magenta-research.com www.rdlnet.com www.mindstec.com

Mitusbishi Electric showcases large screen displays

Mitsubishi Electric brought to the show floor a range of solutions that included both its flat panel range as well as the latest DLP projection range. The flat panel range is highlighted by the 70inch MDT701S model and the 55-inch MDT552S model flat panels while the projection range is highlighted by the display of UD8350U WUXGA projector.

“Both the flat panel models and the projection models are the latest from Mitsubishi,” explains Peri Bentley, Marketing Communications Coordinator at Mitsubishi Electric Europe.

Built in style and versatility, the narrowbezel, slimline and edge-lit LED displays are ideal for digital signage applications, conference suites, and corporate facilities. The WUXGA projector, on the other hand, is a 6500-lumen, dual-lamp system built in with edge-blending technology to produce seamless images. It supports simple plug and play compatibility for remote management.

“The show has been good,” said Pery.

“While the crowds may be comparatively lesser, it appeared focused and professional, which is good for us.” www.mitsubishielectroc.co.uk

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EXHIBITION REVIEW Systems Integration Asia December - January 2013

projectiondesign ships new 3-chip 3D projector to Middle East

projectiondesign exhibited the company’s latest 2D and 3D capable projector,the F85 3-chip DLP projector. Incorporating an impressive set of features designed for demanding applications, the F85 series is the brightest projector in the projectiondesign range. It has a brightness of up to 11,000 lumens, and a contrast ratio of 14,000:1 for crisp, detailed images. The projector is available in WUXGA or 1080p resolution versions as well as a special version that can optically switch between REC709 and DCI P7 colour spaces.

“Performance, versatility, connectivity, brightness and low cost of ownership were our objectives when creating the new F85 series,” says Anders Løkke, Marketing Director at projectiondesign.

“The F85 is compatible with a range of input and outputs including X-PORT module connectivity and bandwidth opening up the markets like rental and staging, live events, visitor attractions, advanced visualization and simulation and training.”

The projector can be used in active or passive 3D stereoscopic mode removing the requirement for multiple projectors in stereoscopic set up. The F85 series can display sequential 3D at up to 120 Hz, as well as frame rate convert any input signal to 120 Hz with the X-PORT DCC120, and combine two input streams to a single sequential.

“InfoComm MEA is an important event for us,” say the proejectiondesign execs, “the market has opportunities in all the segments we operate in. Coming here helps us know all that.” www.projectiondesign.com

Prysm brings Freeform displays for Middle East

Visitors to InfoComm MEA were amongst the first in the region to see Prysm’s revolutionary Laser Phosphor Display (LPD) video wall displayed in a new Freeform combination. The 18 TD1 tile configuration put creativity at the forefront demonstrating how Prysm’s video walls can be displayed in any size or shape breaking free of the traditional 16:9 formation. This display was complemented by a striking videowall, measuring 3 metres x 3 metres.

“This is ideal for capturing the attention of passers-by, enhancing the aesthetics of retail environments and corporate settings, in addition to livening up broadcast studio backdrops,” says Tanvir Osama, Director of Sales-Middle East & India.

According to Steve Scorse, Prysm’s Vice President of EMEA, LPD technology successfully creates images with lasers scanning the surface of the screen and energizing a phosphor panel. This method provides an ultra wide viewing angle of 178°. It is also an incredibly environmentally friendly solution that eases energy costs by up to 75 percent when compared to traditional LCD and projection displays. Over time, the total cost of ownership of permanent LPD installations is significantly lower. www.prysm.com

RGB Spectrum brings new colours to Middle East via InfoCommMEA

RGB Spectrum brought to InfoComm MEA a range of colourful solutions that were highlighted by their latest Opto series of fiber optic-based products.

The products included enterprise level matrix switchers, transmit and receive modules and related accessories. Signal

distribution via optical fiber offers a number of advantages over copper based transmission, including distances up to 40 km, secure transmission, and no-compromise signal quality. Opto modules convert between native copper sources - DVI, HDMI, RGB and 3G/HD-SDI - and single mode or multimode fiber. Optionally, dual-link DVI, audio, and serial or network data can be accommodated. Audio and data are combined with the video and transmitted over a single fiber. The 6.22 GHz transmission bandwidth ensures that signals with high pixel clock rates up to 1920x1200 and 2048x1152 can be transmitted without the need for frame dropping or other artifact-causing compression schemes.

Opto provides the user with unprecedented flexibility and a foundation for future development to address the ever evolving requirements of video display systems. An extremely powerful system for control rooms is created when combined with RGB Spectrum’s MultiPoint Control Room Management System (MCMS).

“The show has been good,” says Ken Pefkaros, Marketing Manager at RGB. “It looks professional. RGB sees tremendous potential for its solutions in the region,” Ken says, and adds, “that the region is growing bigger and bigger in terms of high-end technology harnessing, we see a lot happening.” www.rgb.com

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EXHIBITION REVIEW SSystems Integration Asia December - January 2013 TaxanGulf, one of the biggest distributors of Professional AV solutions in the Middle East, brought their latest range of offerings to the InfoCommMEA 2012. The highlight of the company exhibits included ClearOne’s latest Aavelin digital signage and video messaging system, and Revolabs FLX wireless unified communications systems.

Sharp takes the display experience to new highs

If one were to look who made the best of InfoComm MEA 2012, the pointer goes to Sharp Middle East FZE, the Middle East division of Japanese electronics giant. Occupying a huge stand-space right at the entrance to the show floor, Sharp made everything big – commemorating the company’s 100th anniversary – display wise and visitor attraction wise. “Yes, we believe in making it big,” said Gautam Chakrabarty, Deputy General Manager-Marketing (Business Solutions Division).

“Look at the displays,” said Gautam showing the exhibits, “world’s largest, (90”) single panel LED display, 70” quad HD display with 4K2K capability, and the touch-overlay enabled 60” ultra slim bezel monitor,” and more. “We have solutions that the market wants and expects,” he says, adding, “you name it, we have it, is the motto.”

Visibly, the stand reported the highest footfalls at the show. “We are absolutely happy with the going. We had tremendous visitor response,” said an exultant Gautam. “We already closed three big business deals,” he remarked, “we are in talks with people for more.”

distances due to the ultra short throw lens. The VPL-SW535 and 525 offer WXGA projection with 3000 lumens and 2500 lumens respectively. Auto lamp dimming ensures a max life of 6000 hours. Wall-mount bracket helps reduce total cost of ownership.

The projectors come with built-in interactive capability. Two projectors combine to transform a flat surface into an interactive screen, eliminating the need for expensive interactive white board.

“Sony Professional has a huge market in the region, which is why we are here,” says Wasef Al-Hakim, Regional ManagerME for B2B products and solutions.

“With education segment growing in the region, these applications have immense value.” www.sony.eu/mea

TaxanGulf brings ProAV solutions from ClearOne, Revolabs

That’s a huge booster for the InfoCommMEA cause.

“ClearOne’s acquisition of VCON recently added a huge video portfolio,” said P S Tiwari, ClearOne’s Regional Manager-IMEA. “All those solutions will be rolled out in the Middle East too, and this is why InfoCommMEA becomes important for us.

Revolabs’ Country Head-IMEA, Roshan Gupta adds, “The show has been quite good for us; we have been able to meet most of our dealers in the region, and understand from them what the market needs.”

“While we have been in the market for quite some time, InfoCommMEA did help us understand it better,” said Swadesh Khetawat, MD of TaxanGulf.

“With our Principals supporting us every time, we hope to make the best and offer the best to the market.”

"This is a great show! Very comprehensive exhibition, I can find everything I need to know, all at one place, and all about the latest technology in the industry."

Swithin D'Silva, Business Head - IT, Eurostar Communications LLC, Dubai.

www.sharpmea.com

Sony showcases 3LCD projection range

Sony Professional Solutions MEA FZ demonstrated its range of VPL series of 3LCD projectors. The highlight of the show was the VPL-S500 series ultra short throw projectors particularly aimed at interactive applications. They achieve large-screen projection from very short

Aavelin is a complete, turnkey system designed to be versatile and reliable.

The pre-programmed Aavelin Composer Software helps design messages to drive VGA and SVGA displays. It includes player unit for stand-alone, 24-hour operation, unlimited (10,000+) page capacity, up to four simultaneous crawl lines and supports virtually any type of display via Composite Video, S-Video, and VGA/RGB outputs.

PS Tiwari of ClearOne (left), Swadesh Khetawat, MD of TaxanGulf(centre), and Roshan of Revolabs (right)

TRIUMPH BOARD® showcases new range of Professional MULTI Touch LED LCD Monitors

TRIUMPH BOARD presented a new range of MULTI Touch LED LCD Monitors at the exhibition. The TRIUMPH BOARD MULTI Touch 55”/65”/70” LED LCD enables users to write, draw and move objects with a finger, stylus or even a pointer. No need for a projector, No limitations caused by light conditions and easy installation! Elegant and luxurious look!

The TRIUMPH BOARD MULTI Touch Monitors are based on infra-red LED technology which enables MULTI touch (4 Touch) and simultaneous DUAL writing on an anti glare glass surface.

The monitors are top spec’ Full HD LED LCD to ensure best on market picture quality and the unit has the option of an integrated powerful mini-computer to ensure faultless high speed functioning.

TV Tuner Slot and optional Tuner Card is also available making the product really multi-purpose.

The TRIUMPH BOARD MULTI Touch LED LCD Monitor range comes with the same suite of software accompanying TRIUMPH BOARD products, such as the new user-friendly TB Comenius Office, RMeasiteach Next Generation for enhanced educational capacity and MyScript Stylus including Calculator for enhanced handwriting recognition.

TRIUMPH BOARD is represented by DUTCO in the Middle East market. www.triumphboard.com

VTRON’s 2x3 55” LCD Display Wall 03 Series, which were located at the main registration area

VTRON’s extraordinary LCD Video Walls reflects InfoCommMEA

large number of signal processing for a wide range of industrial applications including the fields of transportation, security, broadcasting, power utilities, etc. The main features of the VTRON LCD Display Wall 03 Series include a built-in processor that allows flexibility of signal display to suit demanding video wall applications, as well as the built-in quad image splitter, DVI looping out without signal degradation, and high synchronization without frame rate degradation.

Visual solutions major VTRON made a spectacular impact at the InfoComm MEA 2012 with its latest video wall offerings. The company’s show this time is special in that it displayed its solutions at multiple locations with multiple features.

Another highlight that VTRON introduced was 1x2 67” SXGA+ LED DLP Display Wall (High Brightness) which gives green energy potential for 24/7 control room applications. In addition, the concept of ‘Present for the Future’ of VTRON for the Education and Conferencing industries showcased the newly launched Interactive Digital Board – VL Series with multi-tasking user interface for enhanced learning and conferencing environments.

It sponsored the show with its narrow bezel 2x3 55” LCD Display Wall 03 Series, which were located at the main registration area. They displayed key messages from the show organizer and InfoComm seminars, offering visitors their first glimpse of the show at the very beginning.

At the VTRON stand, another narrow bezel LCD Display Wall 03 Series 2x2 47” was showcased with Digicom ARK and Magic Processor. This supports a

“InfoComm MEA definitely gave a springboard for VTRON to step into the Middle East and Africa markets, we are extremely happy and proactive about it,” said VTRON Sales Manager (Overseas Operations) Ada Bai. www.vtron.com

“This show provides us with a great platform in generating awareness for our brand and product, establishing our distributor and dealer network, educating the market, as well as reaching out to our targeted end-users.

Compared to the more matured US and European markets, this market still has great potential to develop.”

Michael Lisch, Director of Global Sales, WolfVision GmbH

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TECH TALK SSystems Integration Asia December - January 2013

Essentials of Green AV: Breath Green at Every Step

by Kuldip Kamat The concept of Green Building, simply put, is a new way of constructing environmentfriendly buildings.

While it may be nothing new for those familiar with the traditional or ancient Oriental forms of construction, it has become an essential factor in modern power-intensive, heavily industrialised world where life and business are often dictated by electronics.

So, even as the power-breathing electronics consume more energy in their effort to help operational efficiency, the global buzz is on reducing the very consumption levels of energy in as many modes as possible- not only in construction methodologies, but also in materials and mechanisms, i.e. the processes.

This essentially meant that in an audiovisual set-up which is the mainstay of any AV systems integration, even the way various products are chosen and weaved into an integration can contribute significantly to the ‘green’ cause of a structure. Audio visual solutions can, thus, play a huge role in ensuring the incorporation of green technology into the overall project.

One of the easiest ways to keep AV “green” is to properly install equipment and make sure energy is not wasted.

Consider this: • Buildings consume approximately 40 percent of the total energy and nearly 70 percent of the electricity produced.

• Lights are the leading energy user in commercial buildings and schools.

• We waste energy by using more light than we need, lighting empty rooms, and not using sunlight.

metrics and other green information to employees, as well as directional and “wayfinding” information to visitors.

Integration and power monitoring are key components to green AV in green buildings. The purpose has to be the integration of audio visual solutions that will reduce costs, reduce energy usage and offer long-term environmental and financial benefits to our customers.

6.Transportation: One of the most effective ways to reduce CO2 (Carbondi-Oxide) emissions is to reduce unnecessary travel. Audio visual solutions such as video conferencing, telepresence and telecommuting provide practical alternatives for companies looking to reduce their carbon footprint.

In every typical setting, the following factors play key to making it really green: 1.Monitoring: Track usage patterns, capture actual energy use by department/user, and maximize energy and operational efficiency with a building-wide environment monitoring and control system.

2.Lighting: Efficient lighting solutions like dimming and switching systems, occupant-based sensing, daylight harvesting and time-clock scheduling can help you optimize your use of both electric and natural light.

3.Shades: Controllable window shades with the right fabrics help you harvest daylight by letting natural light shine through and help you conserve the HVAC system spending by reducing heat loads at the same time.

4.Technology: Use of latest technology helps in reduction of energy consumption. High Definition and LCD screens are more energy efficient than CRTs. The cumulative effect of having more HD and LCD displays is significant. The higher efficiency of these technologies results in a lower heat load.

This means smaller HVAC equipment is needed, resulting in less power usage.

5.Digital Signage: Integrated into a control system, digital signage can be turned off overnight or when there are no people near a display. It is also an efficient way to communicate energy

7.Life Cycle Assessment: Monitoring green AV solutions to make sure everything is working correctly with continued maintenance and replacement if an item is not working efficiently.

Whatever and how much ever said, the first step for any AV SI would be to educate the client on the indispensability of going, doing and breathing green.

Equally important is to explain the various options available. The success of the integration does not just restrict to all the equipment and solution working perfectly; it actually includes ‘efficient working and managing.’

It’s no fancy; it’s the call of the day.

The author is Managing Director of All WaveAV, a Mumbai-based premier AV solutions integration firm. Kuldip is known for his soft, straight yet highly innovative ideations which are equally lucid in print. He can be contacted at kuldip.kamat@allwaveav.com

INSTALLATIONS Systems Integration Asia December - January 2013

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Photo courtesy of Sofitel So Hotel Bangkok

THAILAND

Sofitel So Hotel presents urban sophistication

Vichai Trading (1983) blends style with technology to create lasting impressions Sofitel So Bangkok rises 30 storeys up from the heart of the capital, its stunning facade staking its claim firmly on the city skyline. Situated on the corner of North Sathorn and Rama IV roads, this exceptional high-rise property blends a mosaic of materials that give a contemporary, high-tech look while at the same time appearing accessible and inviting. Sitting on a glass, zinc and stone podium with strong clear definition, the tower is striking in its different metallic shades and shifting glazed and solid panels.

The hotel architecture was designed

by Smith Obayawat of OBA Architect, fusing form with function to build a monument to contemporary sophistication. A well-known guest lecturer and leading figure in the Association of Siamese Architects, Obayawat designed Sofitel So Bangkok as a bold statement of art and design, and like a treasured hardback book with both covers equally intricate, the hotel presents facades to both major roads.

The essence of Bangkok has been interpreted within the hotel through the eyes of five renowned Thai design masters, a synergy of contrasts that is, as the hotel name suggests, “So Bangkok”.

Drawing inspiration from the neighbouring Lumpini Park and Fengshui philosophy, themed accommodation and public areas are interpreted from the five elements of water, earth, wood, metal, and fire, coming together in all for one, one for all celebration of individualities.

Sofitel So Bangkok is the first hotel in Asia to offer a fully connected lifestyle, with all of the 238 rooms and suites equipped with fully integrated Apple® Mac mini media solutions which, when complemented with a 40” LCD television, offers an unprecedented range of media entertainment and guest services at the touch of a button. iPads are also available for suite guests, and for guests who wish to stay in touch with the hotel at all times, there is an online web radio broadcast live from the hotel,

as well as a live webcam streaming of the Bangkok skyline as well as Lumpini park.

With design inspiration drawn from the fire element, all F&B venues, meeting spaces and public areas exude indulgence and flair. The essence of Bangkok, either past or present, has been tastefully incorporated into the public areas to create an environment that facilitates and encourages interaction.

The UK-based Gorgeous Group, creator of award-winning bars and restaurants in Europe, provided the food and beverage concepts at Sofitel So Bangkok. Catering to experience seekers looking for more than just fine wining and dining.

Vichai Trading (1983) Co., Ltd. was engaged to match the sophistication of the design elements with sublime audio visual solutions to create a seamless visual and auditory experience for guests of the Sofitel So Bangkok. The company was involved in providing the audio visual solutions throughout the hotel.

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INSTALLATIONS SSystems Integration Asia December - January 2013

AV at the F&B venues QSC Acoustic Design black surface mount speakers

Tannoy Di8 DC passive surface mount loudspeakers at the outdoors area

Red Oven located on the 7th floor, is an all-day dining venue named after the restaurant's pièce de rÊsistance, a magnificent Red Molteni Oven that represents the passion for culinary arts and a symbol of the fire element.

Reminiscent of a street market, chefs stationed at nine different corners arranged around the inviting space cook up a storm, offering the most tantalizing tastes from all corners of the world. The height from the ceiling to the floor at the Red Oven is only

Chocolab is a chocolate deli shop located at street level. Expert chocolatiers at the laboratory-cumfactory melt and mould cacao creations using premium French Bonnat chocolate, the oldest in the world. The workshop is encased behind glass windows in full view, with confectionary made to taste and order. Here Vichai has integrated 2 units of QSC Acoustic Design (AD-S32TBK) black surface mount speakers with a unit of Tannoy CVS6 ceiling speaker complemented with two units of Tannoy CMS801Pi ceiling sub-woofers driven by a Biamp MCA8150 8-channel amplifier.

A Biamp Nexia SP handles the speaker processing with a mix of wall mounted Biamp RP remote panels enabling staff to control the audio.

The Tannoy Arena Satellite speakers at the Wine Selection Area

6m, which provided a challenge to Vichai as sound reverberation had to be seriously considered. Here Vichai installed a mix of audio solutions to get the best sound within the dining venue. The main sound is handled by 12 units of the QSC AD-S32T-BK surface mount speakers which are driven by a QSC CX-404 amplifier. 2 units of Tannoy Arena Satellite speakers in black which are suitable to complement interior designs are mounted at the Wine Selection area within the venue.

A further two units of Tannoy Di8 DC passive surface mount loudspeakers are installed in the small outdoor area of the Red Oven. The sound reinforcement is completed with TOA FB-120B subwoofers that are driven together with the Tannoy speakers by a Biamp MCA8150 8-channel amplifier. A Biamp Nexia SP handles the speaker processing with a mix of wall mounted Biamp RP remote panels once again installed to enable staff to control the audio output.

Tannoy CMS401 DCE ceiling speakers

Gastronomic creations vie for attention from guests, competing only with the mesmerizing Bangkok nightscape to steal the limelight at Park Society.

Perched atop the hotel on the 29th floor, diners have an option to dine indoors or outdoors. Indoors, Vichai has installed 6 units of Tannoy CMS401 DCE ceiling

speakers complemented with two units of Tannoy CMS801Pi Subs driven by a Biamp MCA 8150 amp that blend in with the environment to provide background music. Outdoors features 2 units of the Tannoy Di8 DCT speakers complemented by a Tannoy VS10 sub as well as two units of QSC K10 with a

Tannoy Di8 DCT speakers at the Hi-So cabanas area

Tannoy Di8 DCT speakers

unit of QSC K-sub. Access from Park Society to the highest floor offers breathtaking views of Lumpini Park. Nearby, three Hi-So moonlit cabanas give new meaning to living the high life, providing an exclusive al fresco venue. This floor features another 2 units of Tannoy Di8 DCT speakers.

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INSTALLATIONS SSystems Integration Asia December - January 2013

Work, Play, Meet Photo courtesy of Sofitel So Hotel Bangkok

QSC AD-S32T surface mount speakers hidden within the designer grooves of the Park Lobby

Sound reinforcement at the Lobby is provided by 6 units of QSC AD-S32T surface mount speakers complemented with a TOA FB-120B Sub-woofer, 4units of Tannoy CVS6 ceiling speakers as well as a Tannoy CMS801Pi Ceiling sub speaker, all driven by a Biamp MCA 8150 amp. The floor also features a small 50 sqm meeting room known as The Box. Jutting out from the building facade, the rectangular corner room suspends in mid-air, nine stories above the streets, with walls of glass offering an uninterrupted vista of the city and park. Sound reinforcement for The Box features Tannoy CVS6 ceiling speakers.

Representing the contrasting faces of Bangkok, the 9th floor Park Lobby showcases the modernity of the capital.

The darkened pathway entrance captivates guests with interactive floor-lit displays, momentarily distracting the eyes before the space opens up and attention gravitates to the lush green views of Lumpini Park streaming in through double height ceilings and full length windows that run the width of the

lobby. The glass wall allows for plenty of natural light to brighten up the lofty light-toned interiors, furnished with cozy seating clusters crafted by promising young Thai designers.

The So Welcome table off to one side is just that – a casually elegant reception desk that breaks away from the impersonal nature of a classic check-in counter.

iPAD for controlling the systems within the ballroom

of their event by projecting images onto the two large screens.

Photo courtesy of Sofitel So Hotel Bangkok

Taking its cue from a glamorous Parisian opera house, the Ballroom on the 8th floor recreates the neoclassical opulence of yesteryear, infused with modern stateof-the-art technology to host memorable events. 7.2m tall ceilings and a pillarfree design allows for HD projection on locally customised screens measuring 6.7m x 12.9m on each side wall of the

ballroom providing line of sight from all corners of the room. For smaller events, the 380 sqm of space can also be separated into two separate function rooms. Projection is provided by 2 units of Panasonic PT-D6000ELS projectors with standard lens for each wall.

This allows the ballroom users to substantially change the mood and tone

The Ballroom as a whole features 14 units of Tannoy VX8 speakers complemented by 8 units of Tannoy VS10 sub-woofers driven by Biamp MCA 8150 amplifiers. The Ballroom once again features a mix of AMX MIO Classic keypad control panels. Sound mix for events is handled by Allen & Heath GL2400 consoles.

Vichai Trading (1983) also provided the hotel's technical staff with programmed iPADs for controlling the systems within the ballroom, should they need to move around.

The bigger meeting room features 6 units of Tannoy iw6DC and 2 units of iw62 TS sub-woofers as well a Sanyo projector and a Dalite Cosmopolitan screen. Social Room 2 provides for a more intimate meeting space and features only the QSC AD-S32T black surface mount speakers. Social

Social Room 3 featuring Tannoy Satellite speakers, a Sanyo projector and a Dalite Cosmopolitan screen

Social Club on the 7th floor comprises three meeting rooms and one private dining area, offering flexible gathering spaces in a production house setting complete with wall art and installations. A 134 sqm pre-function area acts as a playground to mix and mingle, and features an open kitchen, lounge, and bar, with ice-breaking conversation prompters including a dart board, poker table, chess board, and a jukebox.

Room 3 features 4 units of Tannoy iw6DC and 2 units of iw62 TS subwoofers, as well as 2 units of Tannoy Arena Satellite speakers that are placed on the left and right of the Dalite Cosmopolitan screen with projection from a ceiling mounted 3000 lumen Sanyo projector. All the speakers are driven by Biamp MCA 8150 amps with digital signal processing provided by a Biamp Nexia Conference System. All the meeting rooms feature AMX MIO Classic keypad control panels for ease of use of systems.

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INSTALLATIONS Systems Integration Asia December - January 2013

Underwater audio is provided courtesy of 4 unit of EV UW30 speakers

For guests wanting to keep up their workout regime, So Fit on the 10th floor is a fully equipped fitness center featuring the latest Technogym equipment. The room features 3 units of Tannoy CVS6 speakers as well as a Tannoy CMS801Pi Sub. There is also a dedicated aerobics room where daily classes are led by cardiovascular experts.

Here Vichai has installed Tannoy Di8 DC Tannoy CVS6 speakers is featrured in the fitness center speakers and TannoyCMS801Pi Subs.

Mobile AV equipment has also been added to the inventory at the Water Club as upfront measure to support various events that are likely to be held at the venue. These include a mix of Audio Technica microphones and wireless systems, QSC K Series speakers, Allen & Heath ZED mixer, Tascam CD player, Selecon and Strand Lighting fixtures as well as Prolyte trussing systems.

+Key Solutions

Photo courtesy of Sofitel So Hotel Bangkok

The Water Club which is also on the 10th floor consists of a 33.6m-long outdoor infinity pool with tunes piped in for underwater musical enjoyment.

Underwater audio is provided courtesy of 4 unit of EV UW30 speakers. The surrounding little green patches within the Water Club feature hidden Tannoy SR601T speakers providing sublime sound to patrons.

Themed as a Himmapan mythical forest, the 11th floor So Spa brings together the best of two worlds, combining Thai and French massage techniques. The Spa hallways features QSC AD-S32T speakers whereas the seven treatment enclaves features Tannoy Arena Satellite speakers.

Chocolab QSC Acoustic Design speakers Tannoy CVS6 ceiling speakers Tannoy CMS801Pi ceiling sub-woofers Biamp MCA8150 8-channel amplifier Biamp Nexia SP processor

Park Lobby QSC AD-S32T surface mount speakers TOA FB-120B Sub-woofer Tannoy CVS6 ceiling speakers Tannoy CMS801Pi Ceiling sub speaker Biamp MCA 8150 8-channel amplifier

Red Oven QSC Acoustic Design speakers QSC CX-404 amplifier Tannoy Arena Satellite speakers Tannoy Di8 DC passive surface mount loudspeakers TOA FB-120B sub-woofers Biamp MCA8150 8-channel amplifier Biamp Nexia SP processor

Social Club Tannoy iw6DC speakers Tannoy iw62 TS sub-woofers Sanyo projector Dalite Cosmopolitan screen QSC AD-S32T Tannoy Arena Satellite speakers Biamp MCA 8150 8-channel amplifier Biamp Nexia Conference System AMX MIO Classic keypad control panels

Park Society QSC K10 speakers QSC K-subs Tannoy CMS401 DCE ceiling speakers Tannoy CMS801Pi Subs Tannoy Di8 DCT speakers Tannoy VS10 sub Biamp MCA 8150 amplifier

Ballroom Customised screens measuring 6.7m x 12.9m Panasonic PT-D6000ELS projectors with standard lens Tannoy VX8 speakers Tannoy VS10 sub-woofers

This huge undertaking by Vichai Trading to achieve the objectives of the So Hotel to blend aesthetics with technology in a non-intrusive manner, has once again shown the immense capabilities of the company. www.sofitel.com www.vichai1983.co.th

Biamp MCA 8150 amplifiers AMX MIO Classic keypad control panels Allen & Heath GL2400 consoles So Fit, Aerobics, Water Club, SO Spa Tannoy CVS6 speakers Tannoy Di8 DC speakers Tannoy CMS801Pi Subs Tannoy Arena Satellite speakers.

EV UW30 speakers Tannoy SR601T speakers QSC CX-404 amplifier QSC Acoustic Design speakers Biamp MCA 8150 amplifiers Biamp Nexia SP Water Club mobile Mix of Audio Technica microphones and wireless systems QSC K Series speakers Allen & Heath ZED mixer Tascam CD player Selecon and Strand Lighting fixtures Prolyte trussing systems Biamp Nexia PM (Presentation Mixer)

10 edition

th

A joint venture partnership of

Connect. Communicate. Construct.

At ISE 2013, make new contacts from every corner of the globe, exchange ideas with partners in communication and construction, and discover new ways to expand your business. No other systems integration tradeshow puts so many people, from so many countries, under a single roof.

Find out more. www.iseurope.org

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INSTALLATIONS SSystems Integration Asia December - January 2013

HONG KONG

University of Hong Kong upgrades Vega Technology supplies and integrates state-of-the-art AV solutions with the objective of creating a learning environment truly fit for the 21st century and worthy of a world-class, researchled, international university.

Established in 1911, the University of Hong Kong (HKU) is the oldest institute of higher learning within the Territory.

True to their motto, “Sapientia et Virtus” or “Wisdom and Virtue”, HKU seeks to sustain and enhance its excellent reputation as an institution of higher learning through outstanding teaching and world-class research, so as to produce rounded graduates with lifelong abilities to provide leadership within the society they serve.

Coinciding with the University’s centenary in 2011, the University embarked on the Centennial Campus project which is to house new faculty buildings, a learning commons and lecture centre and huge green spaces

The three new buildings of the Centennial Campus will be occupied by the Faculty of Arts, Faculty of Social Sciences and Faculty of Law. The Centennial Campus has at its heart the Learning Commons. Spread over two whole floors, this 6,000m2 of space represents a revolutionary change of learning experience of the 21th Century – from teacher-oriented to studentoriented learning.

The Learning Commons is a space for study, discussion, information access and learning assistance. But it is much more than a library. While there are quiet areas for study, there are ample spaces for eating, drinking, group discussion and the use of AV facilities. Users can gain access to library materials and digital resources, and study and conduct research in a comfortable and interactive manner. This highly collaborative and

interactive space can accommodate up to 2,000 people, and some areas are opened 24 hours a day.

A Lecture Centre, composed of a 1000seat lecture theatre, and several small halls and classrooms are located below the ground level of the Centennial Campus.

Enabling the university's vision into reality is Vega Technology Ltd, who was the selected vendor of choice to supply and integrate, the state-of-the-art AV learning facilities .

The Scope

Vega integrated a total of 27 AV learning facilities that can be broken down into four major room types: Typical Large Classroom, Innovative Classroom, Lecture Hall 2, and Central Control Room. The AV learning facilities span across six stories with room capacities ranging from 25 to 250 seats. Each type of facility is equipped with a full digital switching and distribution backbone, single or dual projection configuration,

classroom facilities touch panel and keypad control system, remote room monitor and control, as well as local sound reinforcement.

A Versatile Implementation

On a micro level, twisted pairs are used to drive the video and audio signals within the rooms. On a macro level, all of the 27 AV classrooms spanning across six stories are interconnected with fiber cabling. This arrangement – aptly named overflow – allows any of the classrooms’ audio and video signal to be routed to any of the 27 available AV classrooms.

This unique implementation allows HKU to leverage any idling AV facility to host large scale events when the local space or capacity becomes limited.

In Conclusion

This is the first year of the changeover to the four year post-secondary curriculum andVega is proud to have the opportunity to be part of the relentless effort in launching the new Centennial Campus, on time, to receive aspiring students for the fall of 2012. www.vega-global.com

+

Key Solutions • • • • • • •

Da-lite Screens Epson Projectors LG Displays Extron solutions Panasonic monitoring cameras JPB Speaker TOA and Shure microphones

• • • • •

Crown amplifiers Biamp AudioFlex DSP Audio Technica microphones Crestron controls Dymo MimioTeach interactive whiteboards • Kramer solutions

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INSTALLATIONS SSystems Integration Asia December - January 2013

INDONESIA

AMX IPTV at the Special Governor Office in Jakarta

System Integrator PT Albeta Sukses Mandiri helps resolve communication issues

Flow of information at the Special Governor's office in Jakarta was proving to be a stumbling block in implementing quick action to resolve issues. Thus, the Special Governor Office of Indonesia's capital city in Jakarta appointed systems integrator PT Albeta Sukses Mandiri to help resolve the issue.

The problem stemmed from officials not being able to decide on resolutions for many incidents accurately and swiftly due to time delay and limited access in receiving the reports that would have enabled them to make decisions.

The key reason for this is related to the previously existing system of how news and information was transmitted. News clips were stored in CDs and DVDs and shelved in a library format. Over time the shelves became exponentially cluttered by the rising number of dividers for various classification of information. Distributing these CD and DVD contents were also cumbersome as they must be individually inserted into a server to download or literally handdelivered for viewing by various staff in the governor's office.

Thus PT Albeta designed and implemented an infrastructure that

accelerates flow of information within the Governor's office. It was important that the distribution and archive system be easily accessible at any time with the new system.

made available to users from the web, as well. This ensured that the system was easy to use and achieved the objective of being easily accessible without the need to upgrade the network system.

The end result was an IPTV system that relies on a single platform solution from AMX, capable of recording, distributing and playback news that was broadcast by various television stations.

PT Albeta has been receiving praise for their implementation of the solutions and proudly continues to partner with AMX to make a difference in real worldsituations.

News clips are now automatically archived in categories, much like books in conventional libraries. Only it is done in digital format, instead. This storage archive is also able to accommodate other video materials including announcements, notices and lectures to be played in various formats (MPEG 2, MPEG 4, WMV dan Flash).

www.albeta.co.id

The AMX IPTV system is able to integrate with any LAN, both new and existing. Therefore, the archive is playable any time without the necessity of a dedicated network anywhere.

Distribution and broadcast control is done via web-browser; limited up to 1000 zones worldwide from a central command post over 100 different channels; scheduled and/or on-demand.

Broadcast schedules are automatically

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INSTALLATIONS SSystems Integration Asia December - January 2013

SINGAPORE

Singapore-ETH Centre features collaborative wall to enhance discussions PAVE System helms the AV integration process successfully The Singapore-ETH Centre for Global Environmental Sustainability (SEC) in Singapore was established as a collaboration between the National Research Foundation (NRF) of Singapore and ETH Zurich (Swiss Federal Institute of Technology Zurich) in 2010. It is an institution that frames a number of research programmes, the first of which is the Future Cities Laboratory (FCL).

The SEC strengthens the capacity of Singapore and Switzerland to research, understand and actively respond to the challenges of global environmental sustainability. It is motivated by an aspiration to realise the highest potentials for present and future societies.

The Future Cities Laboratory (FCL) is home to a community of over 100

PhD, post-doctoral and professorial researches working on diverse themes related to future cities and environmental sustainability. The Singapore-ETH Centre’s Future Cities Laboratory is located at NRF’s CREATE Campus at the NUS University Town (U Town).

The Future Cities Laboratory is a global think-tank focused on the sustainable development of cities, with a mission to build a foundation of a new curriculum of urban science. The 21st century will be the urban century with more people than ever before being resident in cities. This will place new pressures on the global environment. The complex, inter-connected character of cities and the global nature of sustainability means projects must be approached holistically.

The scope of research therefore ranges

from building technology to urban design to territorial planning, on the small, medium and large scales.

Value Lab Asia

Dr Stefan Müller Arisona, Principal Investigator at the FCL, comments, “I focus on the creation of tools and techniques related to sustainable urban design, modelling, and visualisation; the latter which is targeted at enhancing

means of knowledge discovery of massive urban datasheets. The results are validated at the Value Lab Asia, which is the large collaborative environment located here at the CREATE campus.”

The Value Lab Asia is a collaborative, digitally augmented environment for a wide range of applications, such as participatory urban planning and design, stakeholder communication, information visualisation and discovery, remote teaching and conferencing. It includes a 33 megapixel video wall, three large displays with touch overlays, a number of smaller, mobile multi-touch enabled displays, and extensive video conferencing capabilities. As the Value Lab Asia is the younger sibling of the Value Lab Zurich, it borrows many of the concepts of the Value Lab Zurich.

One such concept is that of a friendly environment which operates in daylight conditions. The Value Lab Asia, however, comes with updated state-of-the-art hardware and a slightly different look.

The Value Lab Asia was conceived in the second half of 2011, and built in only two months from January 2012 to March 2012. It has been in regular operation since then. The lab was designed and implemented by Dr Stefan Arisona in collaboration with Zurich based product and interior design firm Plasmadesign, and with PAVE System as the appointed systems integrator.

“One of the key differences between the lab in Zurich and here is that we are working with a large video wall rather than projectors. The Value Lab Asia also features an industrial design. We do not want to hide the technology but show it as it is. The lab offers space for people to come together for visualisation and interaction and enables them to work with a broad range of technology from the simple power point presentation to video-conferencing and research related customised visualisation,” says Dr Stefan Müller Arisona.

Control 28T wall mounted cabinet speakers placed as front speakers, complemented with 6 units of Kramer SPK-CC688 ceiling speakers within the Value Lab . A Polycom Soundstructure C12 Echo Canceller ensures coherent audio. Audio reinforcement is managed through a mix of wireless Shure handheld, clip and boundary microphones.

AV at The Value Lab Asia

The lab features a Touch Wall with 3 Samsung 82” displays with customised mount brackets and tempered glass.

Each display also features a PQ Labs G3Plus multi-touch overlay and a Kramer DVI Cat 5 transmitter and receiver.

The Video Wall consists of 16 units of Samsung 55” displays with direct DVI connection to two Nvidia Quadro Plex 7000 units. The server backend features a Kramer VS-88DVI Matrix Switcher as well as customised localised servers for the Touch Wall and another for the Video Wall.

The video conferencing capabilities are handled by a unit of Tandberg CTS-INTP-C40-K9 video conferencing codec together with a Tandberg video conferencing camera and a Samsung HDSDI camera. The VC solutions are further supplemented with two JBL

In addition, PAVE integrated two units of portable Samsung 40” LED Displays with PQ Labs G3Plus overlay for multitouch capabilities and a Mac Mini. The units enable the systems to be rolled to where they are needed for collaborative purposes.

2 units of Furman PS-PROE II ensure power protection with the AMX Netlinx control processors and 2 units of iPad loaded with control apps enabling fingertouch control in style.

www.futurecities.ethz.ch www.plasmadesign.ch www.pave.com.sg

+Key Solutions

• Samsung displays • PQ Labs G3Plus multi-touch overlay • Kramer VS-88DVI Matrix Switcher • Tandberg conferencing system • JBL Control speakers • Kramer ceiling speakers • Shure microphones • Furman power sequencer • AMX Netlinx control processor

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INSTALLATIONS SSystems Integration Asia December - January 2013

AUSTRALIA

Hewshott International delivers

digital signage history at Perth Arena

Hewshott International was engaged by Venues West to advise on the strategy for the digital signage at Perth Arena.

Australia’s newest entertainment venue, Perth Arena opened to wide acclaim at the beginning of November and has already hosted an array of international performers and the first of many basketball games. Perth Arena has been designed to be a landmark and iconic entertainment venue to benefit the community in Perth. The design is bold, imaginative, unique and unmistakeable, the arena holds large internal spaces and thoroughfares, designed to excite and engage patrons from the moment they step inside. It is one of the most complex steel building constructions in Australia. The 15,500 arena is a premium destination that is expected to attract world-class acts and performers, elite sporting teams and fantastic entertainment productions.

T

he entrance to the Arena is dominated by possibly the world’s largest LED pendant suspended from the front foyer ceiling. It comprises 88 LED screens, back to back on each

side of the curved display. The screens can be controlled individually or used for a whole image, either static or moving in High Definition, presenting endless opportunities for the venue and their corporate sponsors. The screens also have the added benefit of being clearly visible from the street.

for the digital signage at Perth Arena, and to manage the subsequent delivery of the entire IT, signage and large screen systems by two contractors.

Further into the building, a number of large multi-screen arrays and single screens are installed throughout the public areas. These are used for many functions including advertising, branding, and live information feeds such as traffic, weather and live video. Perhaps uniquely the system is designed to retrieve information from the venue’s various databases in real time to allow dynamic pricing of food, beverage, merchandising and other items to be displayed at any one of the numerous bars and food outlets in the venue.

“Although digital signage has been used for a while, the technology develops constantly and its capability has been utilised at Perth Arena in a way that will push at the boundaries for a while yet,” says Peter Hunt, group CEO of Hewshott. “We spent time guiding Venues West, learning about their requirements and examining all the possibilities. It’s crucial with projects like this to focus on the technical infrastructure during construction, rather than any specific brand, partly because the market moves so quickly. As long as the right infrastructure is there, the specific technology can really be almost a last minute decision – you don’t want to miss out on something amazing.”

Hewshott International was engaged by Venues West to advise on the strategy

Hewshott’s global experience and market knowledge was key to ensuring

The Perth Arena digital signage was broken down into 2 components. The first was the feature screen which is a double sided array comprising of 44 screens on each side. It is an NEC solution running LIVE digital signage software. NEC LIVE is made up of 2 components, one of which is the LIVE Artist application used to edit and compile content and the other which is called NEC Communicate which is used to schedule and send out content to both the front and back of the feature piece. Each screen has an individual PC behind it. Both the front and back have a master PC which receives the content before distributing it out to the screen PCs.

that the best solutions in the world were considered for Perth Arena.

Through the firm’s international offices, specific solutions were identified and encouraged to enter the Australian market.

The other signage component was the building wide signage comprising many different sized arrays ranging from 1 x 2 portrait 46” using Samsung

The signage systems in place at Perth Arena have been designed to be as automated as possible and controlled by one person.

UE46A slim displays to larger arrays like the 4 x 3 array in the main bar which uses Samsung 55” UD55As. All of this signage is distributed using a system by Intellimedia. This content is distributed throughout the building over the network on Cat6 using a variety of channels set up for different arrays/ locations. The system can send full HD throughout the venue and has already proved itself to be a very stable and highly user friendly solution. www.hewshott.com

+Key Solutions

• NEC screens running on NEC LIVE digital signage software.

• Samsung Screens • Intellimedia distribution system

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INSTALLATIONS Systems Integration Asia December - January 2013

SINGAPORE

SINGAPORE

Lighting Up Hope Church Total Solution lights up Hope Church with top-end lighting fixtures Established in 1991, Hope Church Singapore started out as a 600-seater auditorium in Cuppage Plaza, Singapore.

Over the years, the church outgrew the venue with the attendance rising to approximately 5,000 – well beyond what the sanctuary could handle. This prompted the church to look for a new venue. It was in 2012 that they settled in at their current location at Jalan Sultan, Singapore. The church had to revamp the new venue to cater to its needs.

The revamp took close to six months, involving the addition and alteration of equipment and renovations.

The auditorium (worship hall) named The Axis by the church, is a classic cinema theatre with a seating capacity of 1,400 and comprises of a main floor and a balcony. Keeping most of its structural layout intact, the sanctuary is situated in an open-floor, high ceiling hall that resembles a grand theatre, complete with a colour theme that embodies

simplicity and modernism – white, black and royal purple.

Steven Yeoh, Technical Director at Hope Church, was posed to re-purpose the cinema theatre. He worked closely with Lim Kheong Sen and Gary Low from Acoustickeys Associates, while Total Solution Marketing Pte Ltd was contracted to supply and install the stage lighting and dimming system for the lighting rig.

course work with an estimated budget for the lighting systems,” says Steven.

He continues, “We also had to take into consideration the various creative elements and performance criteria available within the lighting systems such as brightness, colour, gobo patterns, power consumption, weight, noise, etc.

This also meant that we had to study the capabilities and limitations of the proposed lighting systems.”

With the stage being the focal point for preaching as well as singing praises and featuring various performances, it was essential that the lighting system complemented the whole ambience.

As such, much thought and planning went into planning for the stage lighting system design.

The team then went to the drawing board and broke down their needs between “Good to Have” and “Must Have” whilst keeping an eye on the budget. “We managed to find solutions that were between the Good to have and Must Have columns but most importantly the fixtures and console that we selected met all our requirements.”

“Starting with a clean state, we had to understand the structure of the venue, the programme requirement and of

These included 8 units of Philips Vari-Lite 700W VL2500 Spots, 4 units of Philips Vari-Lite 1200W VL3000 Spot and 4 units

of Philips Vari-Lite 1200W VL3000 Wash as well as 53 units of Philips Selecon SPX 800W zoom and fixed angle fixtures.

A total of 98 pcs of Philips Strand Dim 1 portable single channel dimmer was installed on the rig to dim the Selecon SPX and other generic lighting fixtures.

All the house and stage lighting are controlled via the Avolites Pearl Expert Titan with Touch Wing.

Steven comments, “The VL3000 are very bright and deliver very even beam field effects that work well with the other lights in the rig. The versatility and low noise of the VL3000 also made them ideal for the theatre environment.”

Gary Low of Acousctikeys, added, ”The VL3000s have been fantastic workhorses all over the world. Good features, good reliability. We are assured that the lights will perform without the user having a heavy maintenance burden.”

With regards to the profiles, Gary recommended the Selecon SPX as Hope Church had Selecon at their previous venue and the user experience was very positive. “We extended this experience by putting in the new series of lights.

The distribution and control from these new fixtures has been impressive, and we anticipate more models to increase the flexibility of the range.”

As for the Avolites console, Steven comments that the operators who are generally volunteers and who do not work in the lighting industry are very comfortable with operating the Avolites Titan system. “The basic functions are user friendly and that is good enough for our requirements. We also acquired 2 units of Avolites Titans Mobile consoles for our smaller venues which can also be used as backup for our main console as they are all from the same Titans operating platform. The training we received from Total Solution was very

helpful as my team quickly familiarised themselves on the various functions of the console and this helped shorten the learning curve for our operators”

Strand Dim 1 single channel dimmers are used on each generic tungsten fixture

easily for future upgrades to equivalent LED based lighting that does not require dimmers.

Lighting considerations for visual recording

As most of the services are visually recorded, key elements had to be taken into consideration with regards to the lighting. “Lighting contrast ratio between foreground subject, mid ground and background had to be considered. Ideally we should be able to have separate control over those areas through the lighting system so that we are able to break it up into key light, fill light, top light, back light and background light and we managed to do that,” said Steven.

Another element that needed to be considered was the colour balance between various white coloured lights.

Ideally the same white light colour temperature is used for subject on stage. “We used a colour correction gel on all face lights to change the colour temperature from 3200K to 4000K so that it matched with our auditorium house lights which are 4000K.” The stage also has a large LED Wall that forms the backdrop. To ensure that when video recording, the foreground subjects are not over-powered, the screen brightness of the LED wall is lowered.

“We use only 8% brightness of the LED Wall to achieve the contrast ratio that we require,” says Steven.

Keeping it simple

The Strand Dim 1 single channel dimmers are used on each generic tungsten fixture. Steven reasons that this way, the church can replace them

Lighting bridges are used for easy set-up and maintenance

The moving lights are all hung on motorised fly bars so that they can be maintained easily as the lights are quite heavy. The venue also uses lighting bridges to hang all the generic lights.

“This helps us focus the lights during setup and do maintenance without needing to erect scaffolding. It basically saves us time and money.”

On the whole, the lighting at The Axis enables the church to create different moods to enhance the experience of the congregation and bring together the full experience of sight and sound seamlessly. www.hopesingapore.org.sg www.tsm-int.com

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VOICE BOX SSystems Integration Asia December - January 2013

Crestron Asia continues its growth momentum with seamless solutions

found in the market. To cope with this challenge, we set up Crestron Technical Institute (CTI) training centres in different countries to offer trainings on Crestron’s products, programming and applications.

As of present Crestron Asia has a total of 14 CTI training centres in Asia, conducting hundreds of CTI courses every year. Courses are attended by over a thousand trainees every year and they are trained as Certified Crestron Engineers - CCE.

(from right to left) Kanny Leong, the Director, Asia Operations of Crestron Asia and Tony Yeung, the Director of Crestron Asia

Crestron Asia Ltd, the direct subsidiary of Crestron Electronics, Inc., was founded in Hong Kong in 1995, aiming to reach its dealers and end customers in Asia with their advanced products and professional services. Rooted in Crestron Electronics, Inc., the world’s leading manufacturer of advanced control and automation systems for more than 40 years, Crestron Asia embraces the same vision - innovative technology and reinventing the way people live and work.

Systems Integration Asia brings you an exclusive view from Kanny Leong, the Director, Asia Operations of Crestron Asia and Tony Yeung, the Director of Crestron Asia about Crestron Asia’s past, present and future.

At the time of the start up of Crestron Asia what was the master plan?

The master plan was to support and grow Crestron’s business in Asia. Since its establishment in Hong Kong in 1995, Crestron Asia has been committed to providing local direct sales and technical support services to dealers and customers in Asia. As the Asia headquarters, Crestron Asia continues

to demonstrate its innovative leadership in advanced control and automation technologies through its over 20 regional offices, including Hong Kong, Bangalore, Beijing, Chengdu, Chennai, Chongqing, Guangzhou, Hyderabad, Indonesia, Korea, Macau, Malaysia, Mumbai, New Delhi, Pune, Shanghai, Singapore, Taiwan, Xiamen and Xian.

How much of the plan has been achieved over the years?

Since the establishment in 1995, Crestron Asia has undergone three stages of business development roadmap, and we are very proud to say 90% of it has been achieved. After more than two decades of effort, we now have gained a strong foothold in major Asian cities, in terms of market coverage and brand recognition. In the future, we will strive to penetrate into more emerging markets in Asia.

What were the early challenges for Crestron Asia?

The market was not mature when Crestron Asia was first established.

Not only were customers unfamiliar with our products, high calibre talents and professionals could also hardly be

Through a combination of classroom instruction, hands-on experience and online classes, Crestron partners are always ahead of the curve. Furthermore, the DM (DigitalMedia™) Certification program launched in recent years ensures that AV professionals are fully educated and adhere to the new industry standard set by Crestron DigitalMedia™.

This sets a high benchmark for digital AV systems and gives clients the confidence that our industry remains a trusted and valued technology resource.

What have been significant growth areas for Crestron Asia in terms of countries and in terms of market segment?

Thanks to the rapid economic growth in Asia, educational and commercial segments in India have recorded a significant business growth. We have also seen remarkable growth in product usage in the educational markets in Singapore and Hong Kong, as well as the government and utility segment in China.

What are current and even future challenges for the company?

Short product life cycle and everchanging market environment are challenges to every technology company, and Crestron Asia is no exception. It is always a challenge to stay competitive in the market, and bring innovation to our products simultaneously. We therefore allocate more than 40% of annual revenue for new product research and development. Staff is our most valuable asset. We, also constantly recruit and

train talents to keep pace with the rapid changes of the market.

As the market evolves, the AV industry is no longer pure AV products. Instead it is now an industry that relies on the combination of IT, mobile and network.

So we have set a strategic market positioning “Integrated by Design™” to benchmark total solutions.

Recently Crestron Asia has been setting up Experience Centres. What are its key objectives?

We have set up Showrooms at the Hong Kong Asia headquarters as well as in Beijing and Experience Centres in Guangzhou and Shanghai.

The Experience Centres and Showrooms offer an ideal environment for our clients to experience the industry-leading advantages of our innovative control and automation solutions in real-life settings. We know that our clients want the latest technology in their homes and offices, and the showroom will help them understand what is possible. Design and building professionals know today’s clients expect the entire project team to collaborate on interior technology from day one. Our solutions, built with over 40 years of experience, make it easy to bring the value of seamless integrated technology solutions to their client and help them understand what can be achieved when design meets technology.

Recently Crestron Asia has set up an office in Indonesia. Please give us your thoughts with regards to this move?

Indonesia is the largest economy in Southeast Asia and 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. With an average of 6% GDP growth rate in the past few years in Indonesia, we have strategically showed our presence in this country. We are confident of generating steady business growth from both the commercial and residential sectors

Specifically, we foresee that DigitalMedia™, asset management and lighting will be our major growth areas. Particularly, growth in the educational, hospitality and residential markets are also promising. and will continue to invest resources to support our business partners and customers in this emerging market.

Are there other expansion plans in the region for Crestron Asia that can be highlighted?

We are targeting to set up a Thailand office by the end of 2012. Together with other Southeast Asia regional offices, the Thailand office will strengthen Crestron’s presence by providing better local direct sales and services in Asia.

Where is the future growth area for Crestron Asia? Are there certain segments that show more promise?

With rapid economic growth and improved living standard, the demand for our products in Asia has been growing steadily. Specifically, we foresee that DigitalMedia™, asset management and lighting will be our major growth areas. Particularly, growth in the educational, hospitality and residential markets are also promising.

We have also set our market positioning as “Integrated by Design™”, a total solution for complete technology control and to provide more effective support to various markets.

Crestron was one of the first companies to tackle the AV-IT divide with its DM solutions. In Crestron Asia’s opinion how has DM played out in Asia in terms of acceptance and challenge?

When we first entered the digital age from the analog era, customers initially hesitated about the DM solutions, raising concerns over its compatibility and practicability. After years of hard work, we have become the premiere choice for DigitalMedia™ with over 500,000 DM products sold globally. Thousands of the most prestigious companies, universities, and military installations have trusted

and relied on our DM solutions over the years.

Please provide us with a glimpse of some of the future technologies that we can expect from Crestron?

We are living in an era of technological innovation in which we use a broad range of devices and systems to work, live and play with. Here, we can actually see the need and demand for simplifying the complexity of device control now and in the future.

Our recently announced brand positioning - Integrated by Design™ is all about this. We integrate all systems and devices in buildings and homes onto a single open platform so they can communicate and work together seamlessly. We offer the ability to monitor, manage and control all technology from one platform, from anywhere at anytime. With this total solution, our commercial customers now enjoy lower operational costs, higher productivity and efficiency, while our residential customers enjoy greater comfort and convenience, as well as a more elegant living space.

Finally what are some of the milestones over the years that Crestron Asia is most satisfied with?

We became the pioneer of Internet remote control network in 1998 in Asia, leading the market to utilize advanced control and automation systems. We were also the first company to introduce High Definition transmission in Asia, which contributed to a majority of our business and established a strong foundation for the company’s long-term development. www.crestronasia.com

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VOICE BOX Systems Integration Asia December - January 2013

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Jumping for AV joy!

by Ravi M, RST Technology Holdings Pte Ltd could hear him say “I am going home now” just before he fell off the edge.

Walkie-talkies were not an option! I wonder if using your iPhone or Android smartphone on flights would become a reality sooner than later. Pat yourself on the back if you are a broadcast brother.

I am sure everyone has heard of Felix Baumgartner’s daredevil jump from the edge of space. Officially known as the The Red Bull Stratos, the 120,000 feet skydive from the edge of space was a mission that transcended human limits.We all know that Felix has broken the previous record held by Joe Kittinger, who by the way also helped in the preparation and planning of Mr Baumgartner’s jump. We all know Felix broke the sound barrier…though he did not hear it. Everyone also knows RedBull™ sponsored the jump...maybe they should also sponsor a cartoon called Bulls in Space…

We know that it took 5 years of painstaking planning, risks & space technology to pull off arguably one of the most amazing feats of man’s imagination.

However we all have taken for granted the one thing that has allowed this to be possible. And sadly this is where long suffering AV professionals will chortle and say “ What’s new?” More often than not we ignore the contributions audio visuals have in any undertaking. I for one believe that we should stop undermining our importance and take pride in the

fact that without our expertise & skill Baumgartner may have just been a bum in space. Achieving something no one would have seen or cared about. How did we contribute to this momentous occasion. Read on.

Audio and Visual

Lets start with hearing. We all know the importance of communication and how clarity is critical in high stress situations like this. One omission or distortion could be disastrous. So here the voice transfer has to be constant and crystal clear. Its hard enough to communicate in an office space, how did the Jumpernauts do it in space?

The crew had the use of wireless and wired digital intercom systems, to communicate between Felix and the ground crew, as well as the ancillary crews in the helicopters, OB vans and the parachute launch site.

Given that the jump extended 25 miles into the atmosphere, stability was paramount. Sure there would have undoubtedly been problems in the audio delivery but as was demonstrated

by Felix’s dialogue with the ground crew, the system worked. We

Another much ignored element, ironically, are the display screens.

With plummeting prices & ubiquitous availability of flat-screens, the general public conveniently assumes that one screen is the same as the next. Sure, if you are watching a bootleg copy of Avatar you probably wouldn’t care less if you had a CRT! Very different when you need to know if a pressure valve is not fastened properly on Mr Felix - here every variable needs to be monitored.

I feel the 4K TV’s will really be a game changer. In fact the need for even more clarity and data is evident by upcoming releases of camcorders which are 4K ready.

92

VOICE BOX SSystems Integration Asia December - January 2013 what we see as an everyday tool was spearheaded by us AV guys.

My point in highlighting these elements is to show how much back-end works goes into one man falling from space . Yes, it is amazing BUT without the under-appreciated AV guy, his jump would have been lost in space. We must all take pride in the work that we do and recognize the crucial element we represent in today’s world.

Ravi M is a WorkSpace Consultant with RST Technology Holdings Pte Ltd based in Singapore. www.rst.sg

Cameras

There were a total of 35 cameras used in the jump. Most people would have only seen the 3 cameras at the door of the capsule, silent heroes but heroes nonetheless. In the capsule itself there were 9 HD cameras that were connected to 3 digital video transmitters allowing for live streaming of images. What is interesting is that these cameras had to be specially treated with nitrogen casings, to ensure that they worked and delivered images via the down link.

One crucial aspect of these cameras was to allow Joe Kittinger to monitor Felix’s health and progress through the stratosphere. Again we see a critical element of AV that goes unappreciated though it should.

Broadcast and Streaming

Tying all these peripherals together is the video & signal distribution matrix up-link that allowed for ‘live’ images to be fed back and streamed out live to billions of viewers globally. Riedel Communications deserves two thumbs up for their excellent delivery. Yes, yes we know you need the internet for that BUT without us AV guys you would never have seen Felix precariously launching himself from the edge of space. Here we see Video Conferencing (VC) playing a big role. VCs used to be an expensive and cumbersome affair. Today with Skype & other similar applications video conferencing has become mainstream.

We seem too eager to forget that

Riedel Communications involvement in The Red Bull Stratos Riedel Communications provided the entire communications solution for this outstanding project, integrating both wireless and wired digital intercom systems. Additionally, Riedel furnished the fiber-based video and signal distribution as well as the wireless video links from the capsule’s onboard cameras – enabling the stunning pictures delivered from the Red Bull Stratos capsule.

In the Capsule

Riedel Communications provided the on-board video control system for nine HD video cameras with especially developed telemetry control. This system was responsible for the control of the video recording and also works as a comprehensive digital video router – not unlike a mini OB truck inside the capsule.

It offered complete remote control of the whole video system and featured three HD video downlinks that were dynamically assigned to the selected cameras.

Ground-based solutions for Mission Control & Broadcast

The communications infrastructure on-site included the entire compound, the mission control, the production offices, the media/press center and the OB truck. All these facilities and positions were integrated into one single communications infrastructure via a Riedel Artist Digital Matrix system.

Furthermore, Riedel furnished the on-site digital radio network with more than 100 radio receivers and ten channels, which were seamlessly integrated into the wired matrix intercom system. This means radio users were able to directly talk to intercom users and vice versa.

All video signals on ground were distributed and routed with Riedel’s MediorNet technology. For the Red Bull Stratos project, 24 Riedel MediorNet nodes were installed in a redundant ring topology to provide maximum reliability.

The connection to the launchpad of the capsule was also realized with the MediorNet system – this time with two MediorNet Compact frames that were

connected to the main system. All links in the MediorNet system were realized with Riedel PURE, an extremely robust, tactical fiber cable for demanding mobile applications that is equipped with ruggedized Neutrik OpticalCON Quad connectors.

The MediorNet backbone transported all video signals of the Red Bull Stratos mission as well as all signals from the OB truck and from the tracking truck. It also distributed the broadcast audio between Mission Control and recording facility.

Furthermore the data of the telemetry that was used for some broadcast applications such as the Moving Map was transported via MediorNet. In addition to the video transport MediorNet also serves as a network backbone for the on-site Internet connection providing the Ethernet connectivity in all areas of the compound.

www.riedel.net Photos courtesy of Riedel Communications

94

VOICE BOX SSystems Integration Asia December - January 2013

A Tata Communications

by Ram Bhavanashi

Tata Communications and Formula One recently signed a strategic technology association comprising a multi-year technology and marketing agreement that sees the company delivering connectivity to all 20 Formula One races over its global network and also provides hosting and content delivery services to FormulaOne.com which is accessed by tens of millions of fans. SI Asia talks to Rozzyn Boy, Global Head of Corporate Communications and Brand of Tata Communications of what this association means to the company and its goals for the coming years.

SIA: At the outset, let me congratulate you on the prestigious deal with Formula One. How did you clinch what might be a heavily competed bid?

grown into a US$2.75 billion company and launched the world’s first whollyowned, around-the-globe sub-sea network ring.

Rozzyn: Formula One was looking for a partner that could provide it with worldclass connectivity and media services as it moves forward with new innovations in the sport. Tata Communications is a market leader in global connectivity and media services and our capabilities in the emerging markets were a perfect fit for what F-1 was looking for.

Today, it stands for innovation, creativity, reliability and excellence in customer service. It is the world’s largest carrier of international wholesale voice traffic; the first company to introduce public Telepresence rooms; it has the world’s largest public Telepresence room network; it carries 17 percent of the world’s internet traffic; it is number one in Enterprise Data in India, and owns over one million square feet of data centre and collocation space across 42 locations.

We too were looking for a strong brand partner to help tell our story out in the market. After rigorous assessment of numerous brand platforms, Tata Communications chose Formula One because of its tight and relevant business and brand alignment. Nothing could compete with a brand and business association with one of the world’s most technologically advanced and demanding sports. The alignment made perfect sense on so many levels, and here we are today…

SIA: Tell us about the genesis and evolution of Tata Communications through the years…

Rozzyn: On 13 February 2002, VSNL, formerly owned by the Government of India, was acquired by Tata Group.

Through further acquisitions such as Tyco Global Network in 2004, and Teleglobe International Holdings Ltd in 2005, VSNL was transformed from an India-centric, national voice monopoly to a transnational service provider. Three and a half years ago, we decided to re-brand the business under one brand– and that is when Tata Communications was born.

This year, we celebrated our 10th anniversary as a unique public-private partnership that led to the creation of a truly global player in communications and media services space. In the meantime Tata Communications has

Recently, Tata Communications launched its low latency network that seamlessly connects major financial capitals in Asia, UK, and the US, and helps accelerate global high frequency trading and other low latency applications. With the world’s only wholly-owned sub-sea cable ring around the world underpinning its compelling communications offer, Tata Communications now has the scale, scope and expertise needed to achieve its ambitious goals.

SIA: How would you describe Tata Communications – the brand - rising from a domestic service provider in India to a widely recognised / acclaimed international player?

Rozzyn: Until 2002, VSNL was a national, State-owned Telco company in India.

Tata Communications established itself as a new brand a mere three years ago. The amalgamation of VSNL, Tyco and Teleglobe saw a new, hungry and aggressive player walk onto the world’s Telco stage. Today, Tata Communications bounds ahead of its global competition boasting double digit year-on-year industry growth.

We have grown tremendously in India and outside; 75 percent of our revenues

‘Formula’ to be ‘One’ “Our three big bets this fiscal year (April 2012 – March 2013) are: Cloud, Mobile Broadband and Business Video. These bets are aligned to the trends we have seen and will drive the next wave of business and industry change.” are now generated outside of India.

We have a second home market in South Africa and look to add further home markets in the years to come.

Today, Tata Communications is a truly global brand, with over 1,600 customers worldwide, covering over 200 countries and territories. This growth has been supported by a focused and energetic sales strategy as well as ambitiously targeted brand campaigns. While all this added huge credibility to our brand, the biggest endorsement to date is the association with F-1.

A brand is much more than a logo. We like our work and services to speak for and build the brand. Given the demands and challenges of F-1, we developed a brand campaign around ‘If we can do it for Formula One, we can do it for anyone’. This campaign really encapsulates what we bring to the global markets.

SIA: What strengths and competencies do you believe have been built into the company to make it what it is seen as today?

Rozzyn: A core factor of our focused growth has been our emphasis on global reach. We started off in an emerging market and expanded to developed markets. We’re experts in understanding and providing connectivity to and from emerging markets to developed markets, and vice-versa. We have world-leading, innovative technology offerings such as Telepresence, DDoS, Managed Services, Cloud etc. and a truly international team that sits across all continents executing them.

Despite being a relatively new Telco, we’re causing some paradigmatic shifts in the way solutions are delivered, thereby, changing the industry norms.

The industry is at the cusp of witnessing another technological evolution where data is going to be the new champ.

Our three big bets this fiscal year (April 2012 – March 2013) are: Cloud, Mobile Broadband and Business Video. These bets are aligned to the trends we have seen and will drive the next wave of business and industry change.

SIA: What challenges has the company had to address / overcome to reach where it is today?

Rozzyn: Tata Communications has a unique brand challenge: It is part of the Tata Group which is well known, but Tata Communications, being a fairly young brand, hasn’t yet enjoyed the same awareness or recall and is still sometimes confused with other brands within the Group. Its market is highly competitive and filled with B2C-supported B2B competitors that have much bigger marketing wallets. Tata Communications demanded a highly differentiated brand proposition across the 31 countries it operates in. To attract its targeted business audience, it had to secure and drive a campaign that had relevance to a sophisticated and informed group in a way that prompts action and preference.

SIA: What exactly does the alliance mean to Tata Communications in terms of technical competence, business advantage, brand value and, of course, challenges ahead?

Rozzyn: Tata Communications and Formula One signed a strategic

technology association comprising a multi-year technology and marketing agreement that sees the company delivering connectivity to all 20 Formula One races over its global network and also provides hosting and content delivery services to FormulaOne. com which is accessed by tens of millions of fans. As part of this, Tata Communications will also be working, in close collaboration with F-1, on R & D around connectivity and latest video technologies, potentially transforming the way live Formula One races are broadcast and changing how content is accessed and consumed by the fans.

The deal positions Tata Communications corporately as ‘A Technology Supplier of Formula One’ with exclusive designations of Official Connectivity Provider of Formula One and Official Web Hosting and Content Delivery Network Provider of Formula1.com.

The collaboration leverages Tata Communications’ technology leadership, global reach and vision for the emerging markets. We have always been pioneers in introducing innovative services, and this relationship is no different. In fact, we are taking things up a notch, in that we are delivering to one of the most high-tech, high-profile and cutting edge sports in the world. This delivery is at the heart of our organisation and working with one of the world’s most highly technical and innovative organisations is an exciting opportunity for the company.

SIA: How many locations, nodal points within the Tata Communications network / data centres from which locations would be involved in the initiative?

Rozzyn: F-1 races are currently across 19 countries and 20 locations. Additionally, F-1 has offices in the UK. All these locations are seamlessly connected to the Tata Communications’ data centres.

Formula One group businesses and race locations are now connected to the Tata Global Network (TGN), supported

SYSTEMS INTEGRATION ASIA AUG/SEPT 2010 50

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97

and contribute to the growth that these markets have to offer. We commissioned a global research study on emerging markets earlier this year and announced the findings in a report which we released in March. Called ‘Connected World,’ the report showed 84 percent of companies in emerging markets are looking to other emerging markets for growth lessons and best practices.

In terms of business offerings, our longterm growth will be driven by investment in innovative and disruptive leadership services for the future including: Cloud: Leverage our global network and data centre infrastructure to provide scaled cloud-based solutions to enterprise customers; Vinod Kumar, CEO and MD of TATA Communications with Bernie Ecclestone, President and CEO of Formula One Management and Formula One Administration.

by secure MPLS connectivity. Formula One Management’s IT infrastructure and Formula1.com will be co-located and hosted in Tata Communications’ data centres across the globe.

SIA: Having clinched this enviable deal, where does Tata Communications find itself in today’s global marketplace?

How does it help the company zoom ahead of competition? Any anticipated pitfalls in the race to success?

Rozzyn: The benefits of our association with Formula One are multi-dimensional in that it gives Tata Communications a high-profile industry alignment; we have an impressive and on-going case study to share with our existing and potential clients. The services delivered for Formula One are mission-critical, and demand superfast times to market. What F-1 demands to be developed in four days, usually takes other organisations four months. Tata Communications has completely reworked parts of it business in order to ensure F-1’s demands are met with zero error.

The alliance brands Tata Communications along with F-1 technical broadcast center. This makes a high-profile showcase of Tata Communications’ products and services. The technical centre is transported by freight to

every race around the world and Tata Communications can exclusively offer clients a behind-the-scene tour during race weekends.

We get to work with a cutting edge brand that pushes our business to achieve more and at faster speeds than ever before. Like we’ve said earlier, if we can do it for Formula One, we can do it for anyone.

SIA: Technically speaking, brand Tata Communications is on the F-1 track.

What’s the road ahead now?

Business Video: Extend our leadership position in Telepresence with new integrated, unified video communication solutions; Mobile Broadband: Help Service Providers resolve their last-mile congestion challenges and better monetize their broadband connections from the middle-mile with the vision to become the largest media stream exchange provider. www.tatacommunications.com

Rozzyn: The world is increasingly becoming a smaller place. It’s very important to have a global presence, and have access and presence in newer markets in order to secure your assets in case of an economic crash-down.

With the current economic situation, the developed markets’ growth scale has reached a plateau. This scenario made many organisations look at the emerging markets for growth.

For Tata Communications, growth in emerging markets has, and continues to be, a very strong focus. Our interest in emerging markets is two-fold: first, to help customers expand to and succeed in the new growth regions, and second, to continue to participate in,

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