SIA December 2016 - January 2017 by Spinworkz Pte Ltd

Vol. 16 Issue 2 ~ December - January 2017

AUDIO • VISUAL • CONTROL • COLLABORATION • UNIFIED COMMS MCI (P) 039/04/2016 PPS 1669/08/2013 (022992)

QFIS • COUNTRY ANALYSIS: Qatar

- A Finesse Blend Of Faith And Form

• FEATURE: Smart Cities

• INSTALLATION: ICT@Rabdan: The Backbone For Security Training

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CONTENTS

Vol. 16 Issue 2 ~ December – January 2017

70 04 FIRST WORDS 06 NEWS 24 EVENT

COUNTRY ANALYSIS 50 Overview QATAR 54 QATAR Perspective By Shehzad Hussain Of TECHNOMIGHT 56 Interview with PANOUTRON’s top Executives

30 SOLUTIONS UPDATE COMMENTARY 42 Laser Projectors: Out With The Old, In With The New TECH TALK 44 Latency In Digital Media Systems: Are We There Yet? 48 Huddle Rooms: The New Technology Package For Businesses

SPECIAL FEATURE 60 Smart City: Q&A With Kenny Yeo Of Frost & Sullivan 62 The Smart City Playbook By Nokia 64 Smart Cities Closer Than You Think According To Philips Lighting 66 AV Opportunities In Smart Cities INTERVIEW 68 A Chat With Owen Ellis, Chairman, AV User Group 70 Vangelis Petridis On The Company’s Journey to AV Excellence

INSTALLATIONS 72 QATAR: QFIS – A Finesse Blend of Faith and Form 78 ABU DHABI: ICT@Rabdan - The Backbone For Security Training 82 KUWAIT: RH At Kuwait College of Science & Technology Auditorium 84 NEW ZEALAND: Auckland’s Britomart Transport Centre Tower Features 21st Century Digital Advertising 87 HONG KONG: CUHK Bolsters Sound With Shure Microflex Wireless System VOICE BOX 88 Wilfred Steeman: Leading With Innovation And Customer Focus 90 ON OUR WEB

FIRST WORDS Systems Integration Asia December - January 2017

Bad is Good! What Logic is This!

PUBLISHER/ EDITORIAL DIRECTOR Thomas Richard Prakasam thomas@spinworkz.com

ADMIN & CIRCULATION Julie Tan admin@spinworkz.com

DESIGN AND PRODUCTION Jimmy Chin jimmy@spinworkz.com

MEDIA REP IN NORTH AMERICA Broadcast Media International Michael Mitchell Tel: +1 631 673 0072 mjmitchell@broadcast-media.tv

PUBLISHED BY PRINTED BY Spinworkz Pte Ltd Stamford Press 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. Please be informed that products and company names mentioned in this publication may be protected with tradenames, trademarks or registered trademarks of their respective owners. Our non inclusion of such symbols is not an indication of us not recognising the copyright but rather to have a common look across our articles. Misuse of tradenames, trademarks or registered trademarks is strictly prohibited. It is the obligation of our readers to check if company names and products are protected with tradenames, trademarks or registered trademarks.

Last year, during my interaction on the Show Floor of InfoComm MEA 2015 with a regional AV solutions provider specializing in Command Control Centres or NOCs – whose prime customers were majorly from oil/defense segment – the industry exec suddenly quipped ‘sometimes, bad is good.’ That sounded amusing. In a market that is generically taken for lavish and ambitious projects with multimillion dollar tags, and in an apparent situation where most solution providers were feeling the crisis of delayed or deferred businesses, this particular exec appeared upbeat in that his business was all about serving ‘value-for-money’ solutions to customers, and thus it was guaranteed. Even as I struggled for a minute to comprehend what he meant, he explained. ‘Crunch time is when one tends to recognize the value of what one is spending; they look for value for their money; we exactly provide that. Our solutions, while being reliable and qualitative, enable customers save costs; so they are reassured coming to us.’ That was interesting. Ironically, or otherwise, I’m served with more or less a similar notion recently- an increasing shift – not yet a paradigm shift – from funds flood to fund-to-value situation. That is a welcome development. A direction where intelligent, if not superior solutions can be developed within limited budgets. A situation where solution developers turn more ingenious and users turn more judicious of their spends. ‘Great inventions have come from only crunch situations,’ they say. The audio-visual systems integration industry worldwide, and, that in the Middle East, in particular, that suffers from periodical economic challenges, may well imbibe this, as some have already done and reaping the benefits, for a holistic and sustainable better times for all the stakeholders. Focus on Qatar: Our Country Analysis this time is on Qatarthe third largest AV market in the region, quite unlike its geographical size. Some reasons for its doing good may be obvious, but some, we found, relate to the factors discussed above. I wish the issue makes a pleasant reading while giving an insight or two into what's moving the industry and what's not, and why. Ram Bhavanashi Editor, India & Middle East ram@spinworkz.com

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NEWS Systems Integration Asia December - January 2017

Consolidated Gulf Co. Becomes Middle East’s First AV Provider of Excellence “We couldn’t be more pleased to see CGC joining the APEx family of the world’s leading AV firms.”

QATAR: InfoComm International, the trade association representing the commercial audiovisual industry worldwide, announced that Consolidated Gulf Co. (CGC) of Doha, Qatar, has become the Middle East’s first AV company to receive its AV Provider of Excellence (APEx) designation. APEx is InfoComm’s seal of approval for companies that set high standards for employee training and certification and meet their clients' needs by delivering exceptional solutions. With this mark of distinction, CGC joins an elite group of almost 50 dedicated integration companies and AV design consulting firms worldwide. To receive APEx recognition, a company must demonstrate a high level of service quality and technical capability by building a team of Certified Technology Specialists (CTS), adhering to InfoComm standards, and proving ongoing customer satisfaction. InfoComm’s CTS certification is accredited by the American National Standards

CGC’s GM Haitham Ahmad (left), InfoComm’s Regional Director India & Middle East Gaurab Majumdar (centre) and Vangelis Petridis CGC’s AV Solutions Dpt. Head (right)

Institute under the International Organization of Standardization (ISO) and the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) ISO/IEC 17024:2012 General Requirements for Bodies Operating Certification Schemes of Persons programme. “The APEx mark is much more than a logo; it represents a company’s commitment to the highest quality and customer service,” says Jonathan Seller, InfoComm’s Senior Director of Development for the Asia-Pacific region.

“For us, it's all about delivering the best experience to our customers,” says Vangelis Petridis, Head of AV Solutions at CGC. “We are a very strong team of experienced professionals who have a single goal: to place a big smile on the faces of our clients. “Seeking the InfoComm APEx certification is aligned with our mission for the highest quality,” Petridis continues. “As the Middle East’s first APEx-certified company, we feel honored that our meticulous efforts and attention to detail have been acknowledged by InfoComm, which is the global AV standards organization. It gives us extra courage to invest even more energy and excitement in delivering the best AV standard in Qatar.” www.infocomm.org www.cgulfc.com

Bosch Secures Terminals At Antalya Airport TURKEY: Bosch Security Systems was chosen as the supplier of an integrated fire detection and voice evacuation system for both Domestic and International Terminals at Antalya Airport in Southern Turkey. Served by as many as 108 airlines, Antalya offers its passengers more than 600 different connections, some of them only seasonal. The airport counts more than 25 million passengers each year, positioning it close to the top 50 in the world. Across the terminals, Bosch's local partner Ateksis installed 3,500 automatic fire detectors 420 Series which are connected to six networked Modular Fire Panels 5000 Series. These can be configured and operated via two remote keypads. The fire detection

system is interfaced with the fully digital PRAESIDEO Public Address and Emergency Sound System. With more than 1,800 horns and ceiling loudspeakers as well as 300 sound projectors, this system covers multiple independent zones within the terminal buildings to allow for precise and targeted evacuation instructions in case of emergency. The PRAESIDEO system comprises two network controllers, 48 distributed power amplifiers and 25 call stations. It also has an automatic volume control that automatically increases the sound level when the building is getting crowded. Fire detection and voice evacuation systems are integrated via the Bosch Building Integration System (BIS),

allowing for central control and operations. Due to its open and modular architecture, the solution can be expanded seamlessly as Antalya Airport continues to grow. For the same reason, third party solutions such as video surveillance, access control and even the flight information system could easily be integrated with PRAESIDEO. www.boschsecurity.com

NEWS Systems Integration Asia December - January 2017

ESCO Awarded The 2016 Project Excellence Award By The Global Presence Alliance this project, ESCO and NDS met up on several occasions, working on the design and compatibility of the different possible monitors that could be incorporated into the full solution. ESCO, with their expertise in AV system integration and NDS with their medical expertise integrated 3 operating rooms with the conference rooms as well as the ability to have a two way communication to the Academia. The Academia is a separate block in SGH that houses lecture theatres and a large number of conference rooms. The feed was in real time and of HD quality for viewers, regardless of their location.

SINGAPORE: ESCO’s integration of surgical imaging solution with the AV system for the Ambulatory Endoscopy Centre at the Singapore General Hospital (SGH) has earned the company the 2016 Project Excellence Award from the Global Presence Alliance (GPA). For those not in the know, GPA is a global partner network of audio, video and unified communications companies with a commitment to sharing best practices. The GPA aligns 24 best in class integrators across the globe to provide consistent V/UC project delivery and support to global enterprises. This award recognized the best regional member project across the GPA’s entire membership. In relation to the project, ESCO had to ensure that video streaming and communication are able to be incorporated into the comprehensive Audio Visual solution and all of which are able to be controlled via a single customized touch panel by users. This project involves 7 small isolation rooms (Endoscopy Suites), a Conference

Room as well as 3 fully integrated operating rooms. All activities in the operation rooms can be recorded and streamed, and the multi-way video and audio communication incorporated into all mentioned rooms allows doctors to communicate whenever, wherever. There was also integration with APAN (Asia Pacific Advance Network) that links up different hospitals in Asia by making use of a solution that allows for unified communications including endpoint, gateway, web portal, etc. To ensure that the client gets the best surgical imaging AV solution possible, ESCO partnered with NDS who is a global leader in designing and manufacturing medical visualization for today’s minimally invasive and endoscopy procedures. Prior to winning

This project is one of ESCO's biggest challenge and is now a badge of pride for the team. The client’s nature of operation, coupled with the intended usage of the solution – for surgical and operation purposes, demanded for a solution that calls for reliability and precision. The integration of traditional AV and VC into an operating room environment by an AV System Integrator is probably the first of its kind in Singapore. These systems are traditionally handled by larger medical infrastructure companies. The biggest gratification for the ESCO team has been fulfilling these demands and the integration of project was well received by the users as the solutions exceeded their expectations. The doctors are able to use the solutions with ease and are most pleased with the convenience and sophistication of the entire solution. www.esco.com.sg

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NEWS Systems Integration Asia December - January 2017

RMGL Monitors Traffic Flow With Barco Video Wall the location of the train in real time, as also monitor and control traction system through power SCADA (supervisory control and data acquisition) and keep an eye on platform area with the help of CCTV surveillance.

INDIA: Rapid Metro Gurgaon Limited (RMGL) – the world’s first fully privately financed metro system – connecting Gurgaon Cyber City business district to the metro network of central Delhi, transports around 30,000 people every day. In order to ensure optimum traffic flow, the RMGL administration installed an Operational Control Centre (OCC) that is essentially equipped with a fully redundant, 4x2 Barco solution LED video wall. Siemens Infrastructure (India), who came in as the project’s main turnkey contractor, quickly figured out the need for a state-of-the-art OCC where operators would be able to monitor

For ensuring a foolproof mechanism, operational efficiency, and monitoring precision, optimization of traffic flow, information from diverse sources such as CCTV, SCADA etc. needed to be displayed on an electronic imaging system clearly and efficiently. At the same time, the visualization system has to offer maximum reliability to ensure a clinically precise 24/7 operation. In pursuit of finding an ideal solution provider to provide the right imaging system for its OCC, Siemens and RMGL contacted two leading market players, one of which was Barco. After carefully analyzing both the solutions, it was felt that Barco best fitted the requirement. Factors like screen resolution, reliability,

ease of use and maintenance, and of course the cost that the systems would demand formed the basis of decision making. RMGL eventually opted for Barco’s OverView OLF-721- a fully redundant, 70-inch diagonal full HD LED video wall with front access in a 4x2 set-up. The beauty of this solution is that the individual LEDs of the cubes, power supplies, and even the inputs have a high level of redundancy. The video wall essentially provides for the front access to the panels, the solution is extremely maintenance-friendly and can be installed in small spaces as well. “After placing order to Barco, it took only six months to bring the LED video wall into operation with all other integration jobs,” explains Jagmohan Mittal, Head/Operation and S&T at RMGL. “We are extremely happy with the solution and with the level of service that we received from Barco.” www.barco.com

WyreStorm Dubai Training Feeds UAE Interest In Commercial AV Distribution And Control DUBAI: WyreStorm partnered with its Middle East Distributor, MultiVision, to host training sessions on 26th and 27th October in Dubai. WyreStorm's Product Experience Manager and resident IP and control guru, James Meredith, led the proceedings, covering the full WyreStorm and WyreStorm's NetworkHD AV over IP eco-system, with special attention paid to providing video wall, collaboration, wireless connectivity and BYOD browser-based AV control solutions. There was plenty of opportunities for the 25+ system integrators and consultants across the UAE to get to grips with the solutions discussed with example applications and an extensive Q&A session.

After the final day of training wrapped, WyreStorm's Meredith had this to say: This is our third Dubai training in the space of 12 months and each time we come we're seeing more and more interest in the latest AV signal distribution technologies and how best to apply them in commercial projects, which is translating to more demand for places on our training seminars.

I've been coming to Dubai for the past 15 years but you can really feel the expansion of the market in the region and its fantastic that WyreStorm is part of that. We can't wait to come back - but we'll maybe have to book a bigger room next time!” www.wyrestorm.com www.multivision.ae

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NEWS Systems Integration Asia December - January 2017

Mindstec Distribution Conducts Datapath Training For SEA Region

SINGAPORE: Mindstec Distribution recently completed the first Datapath training in the South-East Asia region. The training took place at Mindstec’s newly furnished training center in Singapore.

which provided input into Datapath’s history as a company, followed by the latest updates to the SQX Capture and Graphics cards with video streaming and compression technologies. The session also provided system build and configuration training for the Datapath Wall controller. Wall controllers and various cards were made available, for the trainees to have first hand physical training.

technology in the South-East Asia region has just begun with our investment into these state-of the-art technology training centres. We are committed to the training and development of our partners across the region and look forward to hosting many more training sessions,” said Syed Abdul Wahab, Managing Director, Mindstec Distribution. www.mindstec.com

New wireless presentation technology was used to transmit the presentations across multiple displays throughout the premises, to accommodate the overwhelming dealer response to this training.

A range of new hardware and software products were also introduced, which included the latest small and stylish Datapath Iolite controller. The Iolite Controller with WallControl-10, provides a more cost effective and flexible solution for retail spaces, corporate receptions, small control centres and boardrooms.

Adam Marsden, Datapath’s Technical Manager, conducted the training,

“Mindstec Distribution’s commitment to the development of people and

Core Brands Appoints Neal Ellsworth To Product Manager, New Initiatives to create new categories of products and new products within established categories working under the direction of Mike Jordan, Core Brands’ Vice President of Product Management.

INTERNATIONAL: Furthering its commitment to innovating products for the custom installation industry, Core Brands today announced the appointment of Neal Ellsworth to the newly created position of Product Manager, New Initiatives. Effective immediately, Ellsworth will lead efforts

“Neal brings an in-depth knowledge of product development that will significantly contribute to the evolution of our audio, control, and signal processing brands,” Jordan said today. “Neal will focus on categories that drive attachment sales to our current product offerings, while also helping our dealers to generate more business and satisfy their customers. With his experience, talent and keen eye, he will no doubt be a great addition to the team. We are honored to welcome him to Core Brands.” Ellsworth formerly served as the Product

Line Manager for Affiliate Products and Film Screens at SnapAV. Prior to entering the CEDIA industry, Neal worked as an Analyst at Accenture LLP. Ellsworth graduated from the University of Florida in 2012 after serving as a Reconnaissance Marine and Scout Sniper in Iraq during his four-year tenure with the United States Marine Corp. “I am very excited to be apart of the Core Brands team,” Ellsworth said today. “The company is known for breaking boundaries and developing cutting-edge products that define the custom installation market. I look forward to continuing that tradition and growing our portfolio to create substantial business opportunities for our customers.” www.corebrands.com

NEWS Systems Integration Asia December - January 2017

Media-Go’s Ultra-narrow Bezel Video Wall Solution Catches Visitors’ Eyes With Striking Visuals HONG KONG: The retail market to say the least is a jungle where competitors are always trying to find ways to outsmart their competition. Retailers always strive to think outside-the-box to draw attention from potential customers. Video wall is one of the solutions being popularly used by retail stores and shopping arcades to capture the attention of the shoppers. In this aspect Media-Go recently completed a project for a world-famous American brand of women's premium lingerie, womenswear and beauty products with total video wall solutions from design, installation, programming to maintenance of all their retail stores in Hong Kong, the branch in The Venetian Macau, and over 20 retail stores in China.

The project was completed in July with great success. The simple and quick installation allowed the client to initiate their marketing campaign on schedule. Furthermore, the strong durability of the video wall enables 24/7 running time, giving much confidence to the client in its lengthy operation from morning to night, everyday. In addition to the tempting aroma and music in each store, the vivid video wall enriches customers’ shopping experience by stimulating their visual enjoyments via playing videos of the client’s advertisements, fashion shows or events information. The video wall features wide viewing angle that plays an important role to captivate shoppers

by displaying smooth and dazzling videos across multiple slim screens with ultra-narrow bezel. To impress potential customers, video wall is no doubt a leading trend in retail marketing. For the displays, Media-Go relied on the NEC 3.5mm bezel width panel for all the shops. www.mediago.com.hk

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NEWS Systems Integration Asia December - January 2017

NEC Display Solutions Collaborates With Raspberry Pi INTERNATIONAL: NEC Display Solutions announced that it will share an open platform modular approach with Raspberry Pi, enabling a seamless integration of Raspberry Pi’s devices with NEC’s displays. NEC’s leading position in offering widest product range of display solutions matches perfectly with the Raspberry Pi, the organisation responsible for developing the awardwinning range of low-cost, highperformance computers.

Originally developed to promote the teaching of basic computer science in schools and developing countries, the original Raspberry Pi delivered good performance at a very low cost. However, the latest Raspberry Pi 3 compute module boasts significant performance and networking capabilities, making it perfect for NEC’s displays. With a quad-core 1.2GHz processor, the board is no longer just a basic computer for coding but a reliable intelligent device with unlimited possibilities. In addition to the standard Raspberry Pi 3 compute module, NEC will also offer a customised model to meet the specific performance demands of the display industry. Being an incremental part of NEC’s Open Modular Intelligence (OMI) platform, the Raspberry Pi 3 seamlessly embeds with NEC’s new range of professional P and V Series large format displays. The new displays allow easy

access to embedded intelligence smartly connected to Internet of Things (IoT) for digital signage as well as presentation use. The elegant design of the displays is suitable for smooth installations in any environment. There’s also the chance to customise the screens to individual needs, making the displays a reliable solution anywhere and anytime. This technology collaboration, the first between a display manufacturer and the Raspberry Pi creator, helps expand NEC’s market opportunity, demonstrating the options it can offer across a wide range of markets and applications. It also helps demonstrate the B2B applications for the Raspberry Pi, solidifying its position as a platform with a credible feature set for applications in retail, aviation, transportation, education and corporate meeting rooms. “Our strategic initiative to team up with Raspberry Pi is an example of how we continue to ensure that organisations have the most advanced technology in place to meet their application needs,” said Stefanie Corinth, Senior Vice President Marketing and Business Development at NEC Display Solutions Europe GmbH. “Our open platform approach provides display intelligence at any time, thanks to our modular and interchangeable design,” Stefanie explained. “Integrating the Raspberry Pis with our displays will provide businesses with advanced technology suitable for digital signage, streaming and

presenting to enhance the overall visual experience at an affordable price point.” “When we started Raspberry Pi, we had one main goal of helping people learn about computing and how to make things with computers. However, we’ve been fortunate enough to have sold 10 million Raspberry Pis so far and the commercial success has led to the third generation of a more mature and powerful technology which can be used with NEC’s intelligent display. Our work on the Raspberry Pi mini-computers is driven by the huge community of developers whilst NEC’s work is driven by industry needs, enabling us to meet the demands of the AV and IT industry. Overall, this collaboration shows NEC’s confidence with our ability to provide a platform that can be used in a variety of environments.” said Eben Upton, CEO at Raspberry Pi Trading. NEC’s new series of state-of-theart intelligent large format displays with Raspberry Pi connectivity will be launched from January 2017 onwards. www.nec-display-solutions.com

Mojoworx Asia Limited Takes On New Product Lines SINGAPORE: Mojoworx has added three new product lines to its distribution business. These are Key Digital, Blustream, and ICE Cables. Key Digital develops and manufactures high quality, cutting-edge technology solutions for virtually all applications where high-end video and control are important. Their solutions are applicable for Home Theatre Retailers, Custom Installers, System Integrators and Broadcasters.

Blustream is the custom installation industry’s fresh new option for advanced HDMI distribution. As an official HDBaseT adopter and alliance member, Blustream is firmly positioned at the forefront of this advanced technology. Through integration of the HDBaseT chipset their engineers have developed the world’s most innovative range of AV distribution products.

ICE Cables, headquartered in Los Angeles is a leading manufacturer of premium low-voltage wire and cable products. The company prides itself in building superior products with a number of time saving and performance enhancing innovations which represents a state-of-the-art offering in each category. www.mojoworx.com

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NEWS Systems Integration Asia December - January 2017

Barco And CEC-Panda Joint Venture Officially Inaugurated CHINA: Barco and China Electronic Corporation (CEC) Panda have announced the official opening of their joint venture - Barco China Electronics Visualization Technology (Nanjing) Co., Ltd.(hereinafter referred to as "BarcoCEC"). On 31 October 2016, Charles Michel, Prime Minister of Belgium, met with Chinese Premier Li Keqiang to commemorate the 45th anniversary of bilateral ties, between China and Belgium. The long relationship and trust enables a stronger business tie between the Chinese and Belgian enterprises. Barco-CEC has been selected in the list and recognized by the heads of state. Through this strategic joint venture, the parties aim to vastly improve China’s critical infrastructure market, by providing advanced control room and virtual reality (VR) solutions. Belgium ambassador Michel Malherbe, Ms. Yan HU, Director of electronic information division at the Ministry of Industry and Information Technology (MIIT) PRC, and Barco and CEC-Panda top executives all joined the opening ceremony to witness a preview of a bright future. On the occasion of the opening ceremony, Jan De Witte, Barco CEO, commented: “The establishment of this joint venture fits perfectly within the

spirit of the bilateral ties celebration. We are very pleased with the good cooperation with CEC-Panda. With this joint venture, we are bringing great new Barco control room solutions to the Chinese market that enables the industry to unleash the power of shared knowledge. We therefore see strong commercial and quality potential in this partnership.” “Barco is an international leader in the professional Audio Visual industry and a well-established brand name in China,” said Kuanyi CHEN, General Manager of CEC-Panda. “CEC-Panda is a major player in the display industry and a growing actor in the control room market in China, and these production and deployment activities are now being supplemented with product development know-how. These combined competences allow us now to adapt our solutions to local customer needs more effectively, underlining our ambition to be the #1 supplier in the Chinese control room and virtual reality market.” Barco-CEC General Manager, Nie Weigang added: “It’s a big advantage to have built such a close relationship to our partners and customers in China. Thanks to the partnership we shared, the joint venture will continue the tradition with all partners for business continuity. As a result, Barco-CEC is not only a world

premium manufacturer with world-class AV technology, Barco-CEC is also, as of now, a world class solutions provider, a perfect fit with the requirements of the Chinese governmental market. Adding CEC-Panda’s experience in the display and IT (networking) solutions business, we are developing in China for China.” Barco’s ‘China for China’ strategy is well aligned with the Chinese government’s ‘Made in China 2025’ initiative. BarcoCEC is going to contribute to the critical infrastructure market by offering integrated smart visual decision-making solutions −from displays to networking solutions − driving sustainable growth to realize China’s commitments. The Joint venture was established at Nanjing on 31 March and is incorporated in Nanjing (Panda headquarters) and headquartered in Shenzhen (Home Appliance headquarters), with the Sales office headquartered in Beijing (Barco China headquarters). Barco owns 65% of the joint venture, while CEC-Panda owns 35%. www.barco.com

Crestron’s AVF Hub Enterprise Management Bridge for Meeting Rooms EMEA: Crestron EMEA announced it is shipping its new AVF Hub (CENI-AVFHUB), which will facilitate communication between the Crestron Fusion Cloud enterprise management service and up to fifteen rooms featuring the Crestron HD Scaling Auto-Switcher and Extender (HD-MD-400-C-E) and AirMedia Wireless Presentation Gateway devices. The AVF Hub enables technology

managers to easily deploy, manage, and support Crestron simple room systems over the network, and at an amazingly low cost per room. Multiple AVF Hubs can be deployed throughout the enterprise. The AVF Hub enables huddle rooms and other meeting spaces with basic technology to be integrated as part

of a complete Crestron Fusion Cloud managed enterprise. Managers can instantly access basic room data, such as occupancy, display on/off, source selection, and easily update and manage rooms remotely without a control system or programming. Quick setup and configuration is facilitated through an easy-to-use Web browser interface. www.crestron.eu

NEWS Systems Integration Asia December - January 2017

Yamaha Music (Asia) Hosts NEXO ETC1 Seminar opportunity to explore their individual system designs with industry standard simulation tools to evaluate its performance and system optimisation. An interesting observation would be the use of NS-1 to graphically represent the fundamental differences between different types of speakers (e.g. point source and line source) where it can be challenging to stimulate and experience the differences in a classroom environment.

SINGAPORE: Yamaha Music (Asia) Private Limited together with NEXO SA hosted the NEXO ETC1 Seminar on the 17th and 18th of October at the Ngee Ann Polytechnic. The seminar was part of the education collaboration between Ngee Ann Polytechnic and Yamaha Music (Asia) Private Limited. The seminar attracted attendees ranging from students to industry practitioners. The NEXO ETC1 seminar is part of Yamaha's dedication towards enhancing technical expertise in the industry. The seminar helped address the understanding of key concepts in designing and implementations of professional audio systems. A variety of topics were covered, namely, sound system designs and considerations, loudspeaker principles and digital audio networking. The seminar was an eye-opening experience for the students from different institutions such as Ngee Ann Polytechnic, Republic Polytechnic and ITE College Central and West. It was especially beneficial for students as they learned from NEXO’s Engineering Support Manager, Nicholas Poitrenaud, and he was able to better integrate knowledge acquired in the classroom into real life examples by the end of session. Traditionally, learning these theories through technical papers might not always reap the best results as some audio concept such as air absorption coefficient may be difficult to grasp through the means of reading. Therefore, this seminar provided a platform for both students and industry practitioners to discuss and be exposed to practical case studies to help gel their understanding into reality. In addition, students also had the chance to observe how various industry tools can be implemented to perform an analysis on professional equipment, hence, reinforcing their understanding of audio technology to aid them in making better informed choices in the future. A noteworthy highlight of the event was the training session of NEXO's NS-1, a simulation software for system configuration and design. For most attendees, it was the first time they were introduced to such software. The training session had empowered the participants with the ability and

Being part of the education program with Ngee Ann Polytechnic, this is Yamaha’s 1st year in organising such a seminar to cater to students, an initiative to help further boost the calibre of the existing technical expertise in Singapore. The collaboration with Ngee Ann Polytechnic has helped Yamaha in executing programmes that are catered for students and lecturers. As education continues to play an integral role in the development of the industry, such events is of importance so as to help nurture the future talents that will in time be the drive of the industry. Sg.yamaha.com www.yamahaproaudio.com www.nexo-sa.com

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NEWS Systems Integration Asia December - January 2017

QSC, VIVID AV Media Host Q-SYS Level ONE Training In Kuwait KUWAIT: QSC, LLC hosted its first Q-SYS Platform Level ONE Classroom Training in Kuwait recently, in cooperation with UAE-based representative firm VIVID Audiovisual Media. QSC Systems application engineer Ercin Ural trained more than 25 engineers from 10 established system integrators from around the UAE. The attendees left well equipped to complete the required Q-SYS Level ONE final exam and receive full certification. Chris Hellmuth, Managing Director of VIVID Audiovisual Media and local sales representative of QSC Systems

stated, “we originally intended to train between 10-15 people; however, we had tremendous interest from local AV engineers, and ended up with a lot more attendees. Our trainees were well prepared, and with his relaxed but focused training style, Ercin Ural did an outstanding job!” QSC is highly committed to training the industry on the Q-SYS Platform. It offers online training in three different languages and hands-on classroom training in all corners of the globe. To date, QSC has over 3,500 certified Q-SYS programmers worldwide.

For more information on Q-SYS Platform Training and to find local training events in your area, please visit: www. qsctraining.com www.vivid-avmedia.com

Lightware Visual Engineering Further Strengthens India Team INDIA: Lightware Visual Engineering (India) made two important appointments to strengthen its team in the country. The company has taken onboard Sujoy Bhattacharjee as the Head of Sales and Application, functioning from Delhi, and whose appointment took effect as of 1 September, 2016. Based in Delhi, Sujoy will spearhead Lightware India’s continued focus on innovation and collaboration with the AV community.

“Lightware is a company I have long admired and am excited to join this team,” said Sujoy Bhattacharjee. I am looking forward to the challenge of leading the NCR region through the next stage of growth, as the company focuses its vision on helping businesses embrace the digital transformation that is impacting every industry,” he said. “We have big plans for the future to ensure success for our customers and partners across the NCR region.

As the new, Regional Head of sales and Applications, Sujoy will be responsible for leading and evolving the Lightware sales and services strategy to continue to drive the company’s vision of securely and reliably delivering applications and supporting our customer’s success in the region.

"From a business perspective, it is all about adding value to our clients. That is the guiding principle of the Digital solutions that we develop. Lightware Engg.’s unique features yield great added value and Lightware wishes to distinguish itself by means of Digital solutions that we offer in the field of security, application options, with ease of use," says Greg Vida, President of Lightware.

“Sujoy brings proven expertise and a solid track record to this role. His deep knowledge of the Delhi region and familiarity with key partners, combined with his strong leadership skills and results-oriented perspective will help drive our Regional business forward,” said Arun Kumar Anandhan of Lightware India.

Lightware Engineering also made a new appointment to handle its Chennai region. Gopinath has been taken onboard for Sales and Application for

the Chennai region. “Gopi’s impressive and diverse skills are suited to this important leadership role. India is a very strategic market for Lightware and Gopi is the right leader to steer our prospects in accelerating the growth momentum in Chennai,” observed Arunkumar. "This appointments point to the tremendous talent and management depth we have at Lightware,” he said, adding, “Gopi's strong sales and application management background coupled with deep knowledge of our business and relationships with the channel community makes him a highly valuable asset and an obvious choice for this new role.” "Gopi has a proven ability to create strategic clarity, drive innovation and growth, ensure disciplined execution, and deliver results,” said Greg Vida. “We believe that his passion for technology will help ensure that Lightware continues to deliver innovations that have a positive impact on Digital Transformation.” www.lightware.eu

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NEWS Systems Integration Asia December - January 2017

Digital Projection Has New ME Business Development Manager EMEA: Digital Projection EMEA announced the appointment of Shreeram Manjunath as business development manager for the Middle East region, reinforcing the Digital Projection sales team. This employment reflects the UK manufacturer’s growth in this strategic region and its commitment to the market.

Said Middle East and Turkey regional sales manager Tim Wood, “Shreeram is a great addition to our Middle East team. His appointment will support our growing international reach, and further reinforce our success in this region. We are confident that Shreeram will rapidly succeed in his role.”

With more than eight years’ experience in the Middle East and Africa regions, Shreeram brings a wealth of experience to the Dubai office. Prior to joining Digital Projection, Shreeram worked as an engineer in India before working in sales and product management for Sanyo and Panasonic in the MEA region. He holds an MBA from the SP Jain School of Global Management and a Bachelor in Engineering from Dr. Ambedkar Institute of Technology in India.

Speaking of his appointment, Shreeram said, “I am delighted to be joining the very company that pioneered DLP projection in the first place. Digital Projection is recognised globally as a premium projector brand capable of offering high quality and durable solutions to the market; I am looking forward to increasing the brand reputation and market share in the Middle East, with the help of the many technological advances gained in the laser domain”.

Shreeram Manjunath

The fact that Digital Projection is based in the UK is also an asset, Shreeram believes, and its reputation with the channel is second to none. “Digital Projection has a track record of introducing products are more customer driven than market driven. For me this is a fantastic business value and a critical point of differentiation, especially in this region.” www.digitalprojection.com/emea/

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NEWS Systems Integration Asia December - January 2017

Kramer India Appoints North India Regional Sales Manager experience in Pro-AV industry that is dotted with numerous large projects in his credit such as Shell, Samsung, Ashoka University, Coco Cola and few at IITs across the country. He will drive Kramer’s business across Delhi, Rajasthan, Punjab, Haryana, Uttarakhand, Jammu & Kashmir, Himachal Pradesh, UP, Bihar, West Bengal and other North-Eastern States. INDIA: As part of its continued efforts of ramping up its field structure across the country, particularly in the North and East regions, Kramer Electronics (India) has taken onboard yet another professional for a key business profile. The AV gear major has appointed Vikash Prakash as its Regional Sales ManagerNorth India. An expert in technology sales and channel partnership management, Vikash brings with him a decade of

“I am truly excited to start this new phase of my career with Kramer Electronics and look forward to working with the team to further develop their already extensive product and service suite in North India,” said Vikash about his new role at Kramer. “I see Kramer as the most happening company in Indian AV industry right now. I would want to extend the momentum strong and deeper.”

“Vikash’s treasure of experience and industry knowledge has already made him a key addition to the Kramer family,” Bharath Kumar Allur, Country Head, Kramer Electronics India Pvt Ltd said. “As a company that leads innovation in the AV Industry, we always listen to the market needs and trends,” he explained further. “Our new innovations and increasing demand from our customers led us to look for a strong addition to our team that will fit in with our philosophy of exceptional customer service, and it is very fortunate that we were able to find someone of Vikash’s calibre to fulfil this role.” Vikash can be reached at:+91 96504 77446, and / or www.vikash@ kramerindia.com www.kramerindia.com

Cisilion Adds Pexip To Its Portfolio Of Collaboration Vendors INTERNATIONAL: Pexip, a leading innovator in scalable, distributed collaboration software, today announced that Cisilion, a leading global IT infrastructure and collaboration expert, has signed an agreement to resell and promote Pexip solutions worldwide. Rob Quickenden, Chief Strategy Officer at Cisilion, has been deeply involved in the decision to add Pexip to its portfolio, alongside existing vendors including, Microsoft, Cisco, EMC and Dell. “We are recognised by our customers to deliver outstanding and functional solutions across a variety of enterprise IT and cloud solutions, with a focus around collaboration and productivity solutions, network and wireless infrastructure, and security. One of the biggest challenges facing businesses today is how they seamlessly connect to their clients and partners using video technology. Adding Pexip to our product and vendor portfolio was a natural step. Pexip solves some of the fundamental challenges in

our collaboration offering, namely that of stitching it all seamlessly together, thereby creating time and cost efficient customer deployments.” Cisilion has clients in more 70 countries across five continents. Being trusted as a best-in-class solution provider by its vendors and technology partners, the company focuses mainly on Mid-market and Enterprise business areas for mainly finance, legal, and insurance organizations. A part of the success for Cisilion is related to its strong focus on offering documented expertise. Collectively, the company and its staff holds more than 45 partner accreditations and 500 unique certifications. In addition, the company shows strong recognition by both its partners and customer community through having won numerous awards for its commitments. “We are extremely excited by entering into an agreement with Cisilion as a top tier partner. They are exactly the type of partner we want to work with, and their

strong experience in enterprise solutions, their ability to demo Pexip solutions in their brand new Innovation Centre, combined with a passion for increased efficiencies and customer satisfaction, makes Cisilion a perfect fit for Pexip,” said Åsmund O. Fodstad, Pexip CEO. Pexip’s award-winning Infinity platform allows organizations to improve work efficiency by simply enabling everyone in organizations of any size to benefit from visual communication and collaboration tools. It seamlessly ties together enterprise communication solutions such as Microsoft Skype for Business, traditional video and telephone conferencing systems, and web-based communications so that organizations can improve their everyday work and communications by getting more done with better results. In Asia, Cisilion has a full operating office in Hong Kong. (Ed) www.pexip.com www.cisilion.com

EVENT Systems Integration Asia December - January 2017

AVCL: Sporting It For A Social Cause

beyerdynamic, Kramer & SI Asia ‘go beyond AV’ to herald yet another new chapter in Indian AV annals

In just a fortnight’s span from scripting a stupendous success story with the inaugural Systems Integration India Awards in Mumbai, beyerdynamic, Kramer and SI Asia came together to score yet another success in Benglaru - this time with a sport that is simply taken as religion, if not more than that. Cricket- a game that says, and s(p)ells like anything in the country! Conceived, announced, and executed – all in a span of six weeks – the inaugural Audio-Visual Cricket League (AVCL- 2016) proved to be a super success story, for the sheer level of excitement it generated among the audio-visual industry fraternity; dedication it elicited from the community; sporting entertainment it churned out; and the message of belongingness to society it spread out. While the laurels of initiating what’s reckoned to be a first-of-its-kind initiative in global AV, the fruits of exploration – a new dynamic of AV – have been a sharing and relishing for all. Great ideas, sometimes, come from strange airs! The story of Audio-Visual Cricket League, perhaps, is like that. It all started in the mid-air, inside 6e flight!

one of the best known friendly duo in Indian AV – were flying together in Indigo Air from Raipur to Bengaluru, and suddenly the idea sprung. “Being in the industry, we always talk AV; much of our time goes into business deals, projects, competition, and related rigours. We do often talk idiomatically, ‘think out of the box’ for furthering businesses. But why not we do it for something that takes us away from these rigours for a while, and yet brings us closer, like a rejuvenating fraternity? That was the beginning,” recalls Bharat. “What’s the best way to do it? What cuts across the industry lines and individual considerations, and binds us all? It’s cricket,” Naveen pulls out a recap. “Cricket is one, biggest unifying factor for all Indians, irrespective of social and economic status, political faiths, or religious beliefs.”

Bharat and Naveen who initiated the idea

Naveeen Sridhar, Sales Director-SAARC at beyerdynamic, and Bharat Kumar, Kramer Electronics’ Country Manager-India –

“It was a flash, yes, but we wanted that flash to be like a torch that can ignite a sense of belongingness among the fraternitytowards not only the industry that feeds it but also to society,” Naveen continues. “We knew, cricket is one that binds us all; and we wanted to add this sense of responsibility to it.”

EVENT Systems Integration Asia December - January 2017

The ‘think-out-of-the-box’ theory now transformed into a ‘Go Beyond AV’ slogan.

of the trade, and socialize, and at the same time contribute to society in a way that it counts.”

The first thing Naveen did immediately after landing in Bengaluru was connect with Ram Bhavanashi, Editor-India & Middle East for Spinworkz Pte Ltd – the publishers of Systems Integration Asia (and more!) – and Ram, an arguably vintagecricket lover, jumped out of joy. For, there sprung up a new breathe-free cause for the otherwise-tender-logged AVians to fly free. A cause that could blend their dynamism and humanism into a ‘community and social good.’

The idea was to involve the eco-system of AV industrymanufacturers-distributors and consultants-systems integrators on a ‘paid-membership’ basis; organize the simplified tourney in a day; and donate the proceeds to a charity cause.

Thus was born the Audio-Visual Cricket league. In an age where ‘Leagues’ have come to be a commonplace for communities as well as sports – Soccer League, Tennis League, Badminton League, Kabaddi League, et al – not too big a thing to fly a cricket league (for a community). The big deal is about the concept; the programming; and the proceeds of it; and more, sensitising the community towards the ‘ideated cause.’ “The objective of the initiative is to bring together the AV fraternity in the country onto a common socializing platform, with intent on charity and social welfare,” reveals Naveen Sridhar. “This is thinking and going beyond AV,” he explains, “it’s about breaking away for a while from the routine rigours

The Bharat-Naveen-Ram trio was never in doubt about the enthusiasm the idea could generate. It met with an overwhelming response so much so that the registrations had to be closed within a week. There were as many as four standby teams, and still had requisitions, when the event had just a few days to go. The challenge, of course, was about programming, and getting it sunk into the minds of people. Expectedly, while the idea sharing was reciprocated with a deluge of registrations, streamlining the programming process, and getting across the conducting mechanism to the participating teams was indeed a challenge. Though InfoComm India 2016, Indian AV’s biggest industry event, was round the corner for both beyerdynamic and Kramer, and the prestigiously taken inaugural Systems Integration India Awards (SIIA) was running pretty big on SIAsia’s India rep, they took it in the right earnest. “Given the rigours of profession and the physical frames that are not so much used to the kind of sporting league that we ideated, it was taken to be a challenge,” Naveen recalls. “But then, the way the AV fraternity responded simply amazed us.” “It’s something like we’re creating an IP,” recalls Bharat, “just the way we did with the SIIA; we couldn’t allow it to dilute.” So did Ram. While Naveen took the lead and put in all his activism, along with beyer India team, Bharat and Kramer India team backed up ably, and Ram played the Media channel to propagate the idea.

EVENT Systems Integration Asia December - January 2017

There began the idea, and there’s no stopping. All travails of sorts taken, the tourney took shape, well-oiled, and moved on smoothly- ‘beyond common expectations.’

dissolved boundaries between fellow SIs, manufacturers and consultants, it has truly brought out the spirit of the game and sportsmanship.”

A total of 16 teams were finalized to play the 6-over-a-side, and 8-players-a-team tournament that began at 7.00 am on 01 October 2016 and ended by 4.30 pm, with Closing Ceremony that had the Prize Distribution as well.

“We are thrilled to have won the Runner’s Up Trophy and truly happy that we had put in our best and lost to a better team, worthy of the cup,” says the IAV team owner in a fitting endorsement of his team that was extremely sportive- both onand off-the-field.

The total entry fee collected from the 16 participating teams, i.e. INR 32000 had been donated as charity to Vivekananda Girijana Kendra, a Bengaluru-based tribal welfare institution that had been relentlessly working for the welfare and academics of tribal children in Karnataka. The 16 teams competing in two groups included: Group-A • Christie Roadsters • Godrej Aviators • HMPL Tigers • Online Smashers • Progility Firebatz • Royal Challengers Bose • Sigma AVIT Rockers • T2 Warriors

Group-B • Actis Avengers • Ample Allrounders • Genesis Strikers • High Voltage Hansa • IAV Avengers • PeopleLink Pacers • Sentil United • Traegen Warriors

For the sheer technicalities- the Inaugural Audio-Visual Cricket League Championship was won by Sigma AVIT Rockers who defeated IAV Avengers in the rather one-sided final by six wickets. Putting IAV into batting, after winning the toss, Sigma AVIT Rockers, virtually rocked IAV, bundling them out for just 44 runs in 8 overs, and then belting the required runs with a plenty of deliveries remaining. By virtue of emerging champs, Sigma AVIT won the cash prize of INR 50,000 while IAV was awarded half the amount INR 25000 as the second prize. “This is a wonderful initiative; I’m happy to see so many AV professionals gathered here and sporting it so entertainingly” said Kelvin Ashby-King one of the two Chief Guests for the event. Kelvin, who also did the honours for Sigma AVIT team with the Winners Trophy presentation, hoped that the AVCL makes a long and successful journey as it travels in future. “This is one of the most novel and innovative initiatives in the AV industry, something never imagined,” said Genesis IT Innovations Ltd Managing Director Shyl Kumar Balu, who presented the Runners Trophy to team IAV. “I congratulate both Naveen, and Bharath for having conceived the initiative, and more for organizing it so nicely.” Kaushik Mukhopadhyay, the MD-CEO of IAV India gives the commendation: “The sheer initiative of thinking so much outof-the-box and guising a social welfare and charity cause into a corporate AV event is highly commendable. Not only it has

“The very idea of AVCL itself is very noble,” endorsed Deepak Sivasubramaniam, Sigmabyte AV Director. “While it gave us immense pleasure that our team won the Championship which is a morale booster, what we see more important is the valueadd of the fraternity gathering and its contribution to society, even as it seeks to strengthen relationships amongst the AV industry players.” “This was what we expected, and we’re glad that we were able to achieve it; the credit for this success, however, is not individualistic,” Naveen says, adding, “it’s a whole big teamwork from all ends. Everyone is a winner here.” Endorses Bharath: “It couldn’t have gotten better- kudos to every single individual who contributed to the success of the event.” The duo commended the efforts put in by their teams comprising Deexith, Shaik and Ramya from beyerdynamic, and Jithu Jose, Vinay, and Kirti Shetty, from Kramer. There is one crucial impacting factor though, contributing its might to the cause. Bharath and Naveen Mahesh Kumar of Extron playing his were of a special particular part as the Match Organizer praise for Mahesh KumarRegional Manager at Extron who had stayed as the central pillar with his team as the Match Organizer for the entire event, and ensured that all the matches were conducted to a meticulous precision and finesse.

Our very own Ram giving words of encouragement to the participants

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SOLUTIONS UPDATE Systems Integration Asia December - January 2017

SONY: Latest Line-up Of 4K Colour LED Professional Displays Encompassing screen sizes from 49 to 65 inches, the FWD-65BZ35D, FWD-55BZ35D, FWD55BZ20D, FWD-49BZ20D offer features and rock-solid reliability that B2B users demand. In a retail environment, the displays equipped with the award-winning TRILUMINOS Display technology found in Sony’s consumer imaging products, expand the colour palette of the displays for extra in-store impact for retail boutiques. Further, content can be played directly from a USB memory stick or over a network without the need for costly media players for each screen. In a corporate environment where 4K has rapidly become the new standard in all areas of business including visual communication and corporate presentation, these cost-effective professional displays future-proof users’ corporate image and applications for years to come. The displays also offer generous choice of interfaces as well as flexible control options that is extremely easy to incorporate seamlessly into today’s AV environments. The energy-saving professional displays freshen up visual presentations for education institutions by replacing printed hard-copies with colourful and eye-catching multimedia displays. Information can be translated efficiently and effectively with multiple panels across different sites just by using a PC. Key Features: • 16:9 4K resolution (3849 X 2169 pixels). • New 4K X1 Processor that is twice as powerful as its predecessor. • Intelligent upscaling, noise reduction, individually enhanced colours, and optimized dynamic range of contrast frame by frame. • Portrait capability. • Installation-friendly with wide range of mounting options. • Option to turn the displays into an interactive touchscreen is possible thanks to Sony’s IR and capacitive technology overlays, which allow multi-touch points for greater interactions. • Versatile and advanced control is possible via IP Control for multiple functions including on/off, input signal select and volume adjust, among others. • Professional Mode function disables input or remote control as well as removing labels and block buttons, customize and store display settings and features, adding security and copy them easily from display to display via USB flash memory.

Key built-in functions include: • Digital Signage Platform facilitates the creation and generations for signage content fuss-free. This easy-to-use authoring tool combines text, graphics, video, social media feeds and other live web content to produce dynamic marketing messages. This is a chargeable option. • Media Player allows users to play photos and video playlist from USB flash memory in Full HD and 4K. • Android Applications Store facilitates users’ experience where they can enjoy endless possibilities to display what they need through dedicated applications without external devices.

• Google Cast is available for users to cast content to the displays from PCs to mobile phones fuss-free. • Smart Automation System enhances users’ experience with the smart input management. • Meeting-Room solution enhances interfaces with multiple smart features such as Scheduling and TimeKeeper. This is a chargeable option. • IPTV Player streams all IP feeds directly to the displays without any set-top box or players. Users can save costs while enjoying interactive channels, video-on-demand, and much more. • Security Camera solution allows for the displays to be incorporated into Sony’s surveillance workflow where users can watch up to 10 video streams in 4K resolution at the same time. This is a chargeable option.

http://pro.sony-asia.com

SOLUTIONS UPDATE Systems Integration Asia December - January 2017

Yamaha: ProVisionaire Touch iPad Application V1.2 Released

This versatile application allows wireless remote control of MTX/MRX series signal processors via custom control panels that can be easily designed by the user to meet the needs of individual commercial spaces such as conference rooms, retail stores, restaurants, banquet halls, and more. The updated ProVisionaire Touch adds support for MusicCast compatible products, CD-NT670, CD-NT670D, WXC-50 and WXA-50, as well as Disklavier Enspire reproducing pianos. A single iPad can now control an even greater range of music sources in installations built around MTX or MRX series processors. Remote control of MusicCast enabled audio devices is now supported. A MusicCast capable CD player such as the CD-NT670 could be added to an installation that is based on MTX and/or MRX series processors, with playback and track selection controlled via a Wi-Fi network from a single iPad. This type of capability is ideal for controlling playback devices, adjusting volume, and selecting areas in restaurant and banquet hall situations. In addition to audio equipment connected to MusicCast enabled devices, ProVisionaire Touch now supports computers, networked storage, music files stored on mobile computing devices, and Internet radio. Playlists from the controlled device appear on the ProVisionaire Touch control panel, allowing easy, intuitive control of remote sources. ProVisionaire Touch V1.2 is a great way to take full advantage of a large music library stored on a computer, hard disk, or network storage device. Key Features: • Supports the Yamaha Disklavier Enspire, providing wireless remote control of automated acoustic piano playback as well as DisklavierRadio streaming. • The ProVisionaire Touch Kiosk app is now included, This app allows the iPad to be set up to function as a dedicated touch-panel controller, preventing end users from accessing the operating system or other apps so that unintended control or design changes cannot occur. • Offers enhanced control and convenience for MTX/MRX series processors.

www.yamahaproaudio.com

Biamp Systems: New Power Audio Amplifier AMP-A460H

The new four-channel power amplifier, the AMP-A460H, expands the power of TesiraFORTÉ. Created to address the sound needs of small- to medium-sized conference and meeting spaces, the new analogue amplifier allows integrators to customize the amplification in rooms using Biamp Systems’ TesiraFORTÉ audio processing platform.

Key Features: • The four channels of audio output offer 60 watts per channel at 8 ohms. • Bridged in pairs, it can provide 120 watts at 8 ohm or 120 watts with constant voltage (70V/100V) direct drive. • Balanced analogue line allows for easy and simple integration with any of the eight TesiraFORTÉ models. • Auto power-down after 25 minutes of inactivity. • Software free installation. • Fan-less operation. • Half-rack design.

www.biamp.com

SOLUTIONS UPDATE Systems Integration Asia December - January 2017

Atlona: AT-UHD-CLSO-840 4K HDMI And HDBaseT Matrix Switcher

The new matrix is equipped with five HDMI and three HDBaseT inputs, two HDMI outputs, and two HDBaseT outputs. Its audio capabilities include an independent 8x4 audio matrix using audio de-embedded from the video sources with matrix switching to four balanced, analogue audio outputs. There are also four analog audio inputs, each dedicated to embedding content onto a corresponding video output. It is envisioned for use in a variety of meeting room settings, such as video conferencing suites requiring at least three independent outputs for connections to displays and a conferencing codec, as well as for divisible room installations often specified for classroom, corporate or hospitality environments. Key Features: • PoE on HDBaseT inputs and outputs that works with Atlona transmitters and receivers. • LAN connection for IP-based control. • Ability to configure and monitor via Atlona Management System software. • IP to RS-232 translation for converting TCP/IP commands to RS-232, that provide flexibility of extending TCP/IP or RS-232 control to remote devices over HDBaseT. • Audio output on each channel has independent volume control and five-band equalization. • HDCP management.

www.atlona.com

Extron: Compact Two Channel Amplifier For High Impedance Systems The Extron XTRA Series XPA 1002-100V, is a half rack 1U, convection cooled power amplifier delivering two channels of 100 watts rms for 100 volt distributed speakers. This professional grade amplifier features a 100 dB signal-to-noise ratio and 0.1% THD+N specifications. The XPA 1002-100V is an ENERGY STAR® qualified amplifier with an Extron exclusive, highly efficient, advanced Class D amplifier design. It also features patented CDRS - Class D Ripple Suppression technology that provides a smooth, clean audio waveform and an improvement in signal fidelity over conventional Class D amplifiers. The Extron exclusive, high efficiency design generates very little heat and allows the amplifier to be convection cooled. Key Features: • Auto power-down feature if system is inactive for a period of time. • Ultra low inrush current draw to prevent power circuit overload that eliminates the need for power sequencing in systems with multiple amplifiers. • UL 2043 plenum rated when used with the optional Flexible Conduit Adapter Kit. • Housed in a half rack width metal enclosure, conserving rack space and weighing only 2.5 lbs (1.1 kg). www.extron.com

SOLUTIONS UPDATE Systems Integration Asia December - January 2017

Opticis: BR-400 19" 1RU Power Supply Frame for Optical Modules

Opticis BR-400, 19” 1RU multi-mounting rack is modular and systematic fiber-optic solution providing a flexibility to adopt Opticis Optical extension modules, up to 8 units. Each module can be powered from BR-400. It uses 100-240VAC, 50-60Hz of dual input power with load-sharing and redundant backup. BR-400 adopts two(2) LEDs in the front panel for power supply failure to run the stable system without any disruption or disconnection from the power failure. Key Features: • Compact 19” 1RU Power Supply Frame. • Adopts up to 8 units of Optics Optical modules. • Available for primary and dual power models. • Supports Load-sharing. • Input power: 100-240VAC, 50-60Hz. • Dimensions (WDH): 482x210x44 mm. www.opticis.com

HDMI 2.0 optical fiber detachable extender; HDFX-300 Supports HDMI 2.0 standards feature Extends up to 4K(4096x2160) at 60Hz, (RGB & YCbCr : 4:4:4) Transmits HDMI 2.0 data up to 100m(328feet) over one duplex LC fiber Prevents accidental disconnect by High-retention connector Operates by 5V from HDMI source or USB power Real 4K over Fiber Solution

Provides Auto Power-switching and diagnosis feature

Stretch & Control digital video audio standards ds ender º DVI / HDMI / DisplayPort / SDI Fiber Optic Extender º KVM Extender (Fiber Optic & IP base) º Multi Format Modular Matrix º Various Video Format Converters º Wireless Extender

Complies with CEC, EDID, and HDCP 2.2

HDMI 2.0 Active Optical Cable; HDFC-200 Supports HDMI 2.0 standards feature Extends up to 4K(4096x2160) at 60Hz, (RGB & YCbCr : 4:4:4) Transmits HDMI 2.0 data up to 100m(328feet) over hybrid cable Adopts Plenum graded & LSZH(Low Smoke Zero Halogen) cable Prevents accidental disconnect by High-retention connector Operates by USB power from the display(RX) side Complies with CEC, EDID, and HDCP 2.2

OPTICIS HQ 16Fl., Kins Tower Jeongja 331, 8 Sungnam-daero, Bundang-gu, Sungnam-si, Gyunggi-do, 13558 South Korea Tel: +82 31 719-8033 Fax: 031-791-8032 Email: tosales@opticis.com

SOLUTIONS UPDATE Systems Integration Asia December - January 2017

Symextrix: Prism 0x0 Dante Enabled DSP Offering expansion via 64 channels of bidirectional Dante networking, the new Prism 0x0 delivers cost-effective processing, mixing, and routing for Dante-enabled endpoints, while providing exceptional sound quality. Used as the DSP core of a Dante network, or as a DSP co-processor, Prism 0x0 is ideally suited for applications requiring powerful, cost effective, advanced signal processing coupled with an industry-standard network audio interface. The Prism 0x0 is identical to the other Prism DSPs (and to Symetrix Radius and Edge products) with respect to processing power and delay memory. It is unique in that it has no analogue inputs or outputs and no external control inputs or logic outputs. Prism 0x0 provides a quick, easy way to add customizable DSP capacity to existing Dante-enabled systems. Housed in a ½ rack x1U rack-mount chassis, Prism 0x0 includes flexible mounting options and convenient power over Ethernet (PoE+). The Prism 0x0 has many applications. For example, a lot of digital consoles have Dante but don't offer feedback elimination, auto-mixing, and FIR filters for processing loudspeakers. Simply insert the Prism 0x0 between the remote stage-input boxes and the console, if Dante-enabled, or use the Prism 0x0 as an insert or bus processor. For outputs, relay the signals through the Prism 0x0, if the amps are Dante-enabled, or insert it on the console's buses. In a multi-room meeting or conferencing facility that is all Dante based, you can save money by centralizing and sharing certain resources. A Prism 0x0 in each room handles the local Dante mic and speaker processing, while Symetrix Radius and Edge DSPs in the central machine room manage the AEC, mixing, and mic routing and assign resources such as telco lines. The Prism 0x0 is also a great solution in a larger system where you just need to add some extra processing or signal aggregation. Key Features: • Comes with ARC, Dante, and Ethernet ports. • Can be customized, connected, and configured using Symetrix Composer. • Can be controlled from Symetrix ARC wall panels, ARC-WEB browser-based interface, and from third-party touchscreens. • An embedded Web server enables remote audio metering and diagnostics of the Prism 0x0 hardware. • Has an easy-to-read OLED display. www.symetrix.co

SOLUTIONS UPDATE Systems Integration Asia December - January 2017

MediaStar: MediaStar Creator MediaStar Creator, together with MediaStar’s 782-AV-DS Media Player, enables one to create dynamic and visibly appealing multi-zone digital signage content for their enterprise, using the simple drag and drop layout builder, a library of templates and live stream service. With Creator, anyone can create high quality signage solutions in a familiar and intuitive interface. Before publishing a page, users can preview the entire display on the media player to make sure they are happy with it and it can easily be revised, duplicated or reschedule previously created pages. Creator's layout grids and scaling features make it easy to ensure the layout and branding is always consistent. Creator’s flexibility allows users to choose from a range of digital signage templates and inspiration galleries, or create their own bespoke templates with their own corporate branding using a wide variety of fonts and colours from Creator’s in-built library. With Creator, using MediaStar Tools allows users to schedule and control page sequencing for the content they have created, it then exports completed projects across their IP network. Key Features: * Custom Templates are available. * Video and Streaming: Add single or multiple live streams to a page, or video clips for playback based on your needs. * Dynamic Text and Feeds: Add multiple text boxes that can be fed dynamically from an external source. * Ability to add Images, Tickers and Crawls. www.cabletime.com

LiveCore™ series: Scalable Solutions for Premium Integrations

UP TO 4K60

NEW!

Rev4 Firmware offers major enhancements

Courtesy of the SECC

Achieve unsurpassed event-level presentations: u u u u u u

Modular range of multi-screen seamless switchers Multiple input sources: HDMI, DVI Dual-Link, DisplayPort, 3G/HD/SD-SDI, and Universal Analog True seamless and instant switching up to 4K Full live Preview of all sources (Preview/Mosaic/Monitoring) Ease of set-up and management through our intuitive Web RCS Extensive set of user tools available for enhanced flexibility and creativity

Advanced GUI for room automation:

Analog Way Asia Pacific HQ

To learn more, connect with us on

+65 6292 5800

www.analogway.com

To learn more, connect with us on

SOLUTIONS UPDATE Systems Integration Asia December - January 2017

ZeeVee: ZyPerHD H.264 HD Video Distribution Encoder and Decoder The ZyPerHD allows for the easy distribution and switching of high definition H.264 video, audio, and other data signals using ZyPerHD encoder and decoder modules and off-the-shelf Gigabit Ethernet switches. Using industry standard H.264 (MPEG4) encoding technology, the ZyPerHD complements ZeeVee's other video IP distribution solutions and provides an affordable, easy to set up and easy to maintain IP video encoding solution enabling customers to deliver video content over their Ethernet networks. To help customers achieve a lower total cost of ownership, ZyPerHD units can be deployed on the same IP network with ZyPer4K encoders and decoders allowing for mixed resolutions within a single architecture. All ZyPer products are easily set up, controlled and monitored using the ZyPer Management Platform, running ZeeVee's MaestroZ software. For further flexibility, set up and control can also be done through 3rd party control systems using ZeeVee's Open API for custom integration. Key Features: • Stunning pixel for pixel reproduction of compressed 720p and 1080p HD resolution content. • Ability to change sources and content instantly without programming • Very low latency design making it perfect for demanding environments like executive boardrooms. • Fully supports HDMI 1.4 with HDCP encryption. • 4x4 video wall support. • Point-to-point configuration to transmit 1080p video up to 100 meters away.

• Power over Ethernet support (PoE). • Source and display control (RS232). www.zeevee.com

Aurora: HDMI 2.0a Cables Aurora’s HDMI 2.0a cables come in interesting colour possibilities. But don’t let that detract from what the cable offers. The cables work even when they are coiled or pinched. Key Features: • Flexibility and weight of a thin cable, quality of a thick cable. • Resolutions up to 4K 60Hz 4:4:4 • Full 600MHz Bandwidth with 18Gbps throughput. • HDR High Dynamic Range. • Available in Red, Green, Blue, Yellow, Orange, Black, and Custom Colours. • Sizes: 0.5m, 1m, 2m, 3m, and 5m (1.6´, 3.3´, 6.6´, 9.8´, and 16.4´). • Easy grip connector and enhanced strain relief. www.auroramm.com

SOLUTIONS UPDATE Systems Integration Asia December - January 2017

Lightware: MX2-8x8-HDMI20-Audio Maxtrix Switcher

The MX2-8x8-HDMI20-Audio is the first Lightware HDMI2.0 standalone matrix switcher that supports uncompromised 4K UHD resolution at 60Hz 4:4:4. This standalone product has 8 HDMI2.0 inputs and 8 HDMI2.0 outputs transmitting up to 4K at 60Hz in 4:4:4 format, while supporting 3D, Dolby TrueHD and DTS-HD Master Audio. Each input port has audio connectors for embedding analog audio into the HDMI stream. Thanks to its compact size and silent design, it is particularly suitable for offices and meeting rooms, for 4K live events, and for future-proof operation centres. It is also a perfect choice for home theatre enthusiasts who demand the highest quality along with HDMI2.0 and 4K@60Hz video signals.

Key Features: • 4k@60Hz with RGB 4:4:4 colourspace, 18 Gbit/sec bandwidth. • HDMI 2.0, HDMI 1.x and DVI 1.0 compliant. • HDCP 2.2 and HDCP 1.4 compliant with cross conversion capabilities. • Fully non-blocking switching architecture with zero frame delay.

• Splitting of 4K UHD at 60Hz to two output ports with left half and right half of the original video. • 4:4:4 to 4:2:0 down-conversion 4:2:0 to 4:4:4 up-conversion. • Built-in website. • RS-232, Ethernet and USB control options. • Pixel Accurate Reclocking on each input. • Advanced EDID Management. www.lightware.eu

A winning combination

Avid Pro Tools | S6 and IHSE Draco tera | S6 The Draco tera | S6 KVM switch takes the Avid Pro Tools | S6 control surface to a greater level of performance and capability. Maximizing efficiency, simplifying workflow and increasing flexibility in professional sound studios.

Deluxe Media, Hollywood We can dynamically allocate any system to any room and move between mix stages with minimal setup time. It gives us great flexibility.

Editors can instantly switch between Pro Tools stations with just a single touch, giving them complete control with no distraction. With no transmission delay or image degradation, they see the complete picture.

IHSE GmbH - Headquarters Maybachstrasse 11 88094 Oberteuringen  Germany

IHSE GmbH Asia Pacific Pte Ltd 158 Kallang Way  #07-13A Singapore 349245

Doug Higgins, Director of Audio Services

IHSE USA LLC 1 Corporate Drive Cranbury, NJ 08512  USA avid.ihse.com  info@ihse.com

SOLUTIONS UPDATE Systems Integration Asia December - January 2017

Leyard: Next-Generation DirectLight Series Of Fine Pitch LED Video Wall Displays The new Leyard DirectLight Series dramatically expands upon the original award-winning product family by enabling ultra-slim, front service installations in more indoor environments, delivering industry-leading resolution with sub-1 millimeter pixel pitch clarity and providing reliability features not before seen in the LED industry. The Leyard DirectLight Series includes a choice of four fine pixel pitch models from 0.9 to 1.8 mm, and comes with an adjustable wall mount, full front service access, as well as a remote power supply with optional redundancy, full hot swap capability and the ability to reduce the number of required power circuits. Available in 0.9, 1.2, 1.5 and 1.8 millimeter pixel pitches, the Leyard DirectLight Series offers crisp, clear images even at short viewing distances, making it excellent for control rooms or any application requiring close-up viewing and high resolution information. Each display features a 16:9 aspect ratio and precise pixel pitch values to achieve exact Full HD, 4K and 8K resolutions. In addition, the larger 27-inch diagonal display size covers 68 percent more area than the previous version, requiring fewer displays per video wall and featuring an easy-to-handle design. Leyard LED Control Software provides image adjustment and control capabilities.

Key Features: • Leyard EasyAlign Mounting System with fine, six-axis adjustments for perfect, seamless alignment of any size video wall array. • Can be installed to create concave curved video walls, wrapped 90-degree corner video walls and support video walls tilted forward up to 10 inches (254 mm). • Positive locking features enable safe installations by ensuring video wall displays never shift. • Comes with the DirectLight Remote Power Supply (RPS). • The advanced DirectLight RPS fits in a standard 19-inch rack.

Leyard is also launching the Leyard TWS Series, a new family of lightweight and versatile fine pitch LED video wall displays. Featuring a convenient 27-inch diagonal size and a 16:9 aspect ratio, this all-in-one design fits a broad range of fine pitch installation environments in 0.9, 1.2, 1.5, or 1.8 mm pixel pitches. The display’s light weight makes it easy to handle, offering an attractive solution for faceted curved video walls, hanging video walls or standard video wall environments that require a compact, fine pixel pitch solution. www.leyard.com/DirectLight www.leyard.com/TWS

SOLUTIONS UPDATE Systems Integration Asia December - January 2017

MuxLab: Pro Digital Network Controller

MuxLab’s ProDigital Network Controller (model 500811) gives installers and their customers the ability to vastly simplify their AV systems. With 24/7 access from any place at any time, this versatile solution goes way beyond remote control, allowing users to manage virtual switches and splitters with the press of a button. It centralizes control of all IP-connected MuxLab devices, and is accessible both on- and off-site using an intuitive web interface and third party apps on smartphones and tablets. Just a tap or swipe selects and directs connected AV devices. This Controller also provides the building blocks to develop automation control applications. IP-based devices can be managed with a scripted command that automates actions for a totally hands-free operation. It also auto-discovers MuxLab AV over IP devices to simplify installation and centralizes software upgrades to enhance performance. Plus, it supports a common API for third party control of MuxLab devices.

Key Features: • Centralizes control of all MuxLab products within a system. • Provides a web interface to manage & control MuxLab products. • Provides a mobile web interface for smartphones and tablets. • Provides control APIs (IP & RS-232) for third party control integration. • Supports I/O presets to be configured. • Serves as a base platform to develop automation control applications. • Supports Software upgrades.

www.muxlab.com

SOLUTIONS UPDATE Systems Integration Asia December - January 2017

Vivitek: Interactive UST Projectors For Education Segment Vivitek, has announced the successors to its highly popular interactive family of ultra-short throw projectors with the introduction of the innovative DH759USTi and D756USTi. These two advanced Full HD and WXGA resolution ultrashort throw interactive projectors offer increased ease of use, functionality and connectivity over their predecessors. Set up is easy and intuitive with an HID driverfree recognition for the interactive pens, simplifying installation. The driverless installer also gives users long term peace of mind as they no longer need to worry about driver updates. Aiding convenience further, is the models’ upgrade from a four finger to a ten finger touch capacity, via the optional sensor, to create a true interactive education session. The multi-touch capacity can facilitate touch gesture usage – like pinch and zoom, rotation, click and flicking – thus supporting more intuitive finger writing for a more natural user experience. With their ultra-short throw lens, these projectors have been designed to be installed against walls with just a short space to the screen, in the case of the D759USTi a maximum screen size 100” can be created from just 44cm distance. One of their many benefits is that when standing up close to the projected image to write or point out details, users will enjoy a better experience due to the lower eye glare impact and shadow interference thanks to their ultra-short throw projection. The models deliver high brightness, contrast and colour performance making any finely detailed images clearly readable from the back of the classroom or teaching areas. The DH759USTi features Full HD resolution whereas the D756USTi offers WXGA resolution. Key Features: • Ultra-short throw lens to make 110 inch screen at only 51cm away in Full HD 1080p resolution(DH759USTi) to show every details from your computer (D759USTi maximum screen size 100” at 44cm distance. • 3,500/3,300 ANSI lumens of brightness (DH759USTi/ D756USTi) and 10,000:1 contrast ratio for clear, crisp and bright projection. • Connectivity options include: 2x HDMI v1.4 (1 w/MHL on DH759USTi), 2x VGA-in, 1x VGA-out, microphone in, audioin/audio-out, RJ-45 for projector status and control • Compatible with NovoPRO Wireless Presentation System for wireless display at 1080p resolution from most digital devices, facilitating BYOD (bring your own device) in the classroom • Built-in interactivity with dual pens providing 2 simultaneous writing/drawing.

• Optional laser curtain module providing up to 10 simultaneous finger-touch for writing/drawing. • Free of Charge Interactive Whiteboard software NovoScreennote • Long lasting life with up to 7,000/10,000 hours lamp-life (DH759USTi/D756USTi) • Eco Friendly and Energy Saving with sleep timer and also auto-power-off when there is no signal input. • Integrated network monitoring and management compatible with Crestron® RoomView™ and Extron. • Anti-dust sealed optical engine design to ensure image quality. www.deltadisplays.com

SOLUTIONS UPDATE Systems Integration Asia December - January 2017

Crestron: Shipping End-to-End 4K/60 Fiber Solutions

Crestron announced shipping of its end-to-end 4K/60 fiber solutions across its DigitalMedia product line. Comprised of 4K/60 fiber transmitter and receiver endpoints in both box and card-based options, these new solutions deliver full DM 4K/60 support, end-to-end HDCP 2.2 support, support for all IT industry-standard fiber types, flexibility to adapt to changes in fiber types, and local HDMI® switching for added flexibility. New 4K/60 fiber transmitter and receiver cards: The DigitalMedia Fiber Transmitter Card (DMCF-TX-4K-SFP) and DigitalMedia Fiber Receiver Card (DMCF-RX-4K-SFP) are independent and rely on the chassis for power only. Any combination of transmitter or receiver card can be loaded into the chassis to make custom configurations possible. The fiber transmitter and receiver cards can be thought of as extenders from and to DM 4K/60 HDMI inputs and outputs. New 4K/60 fiber transmitter and receiver boxes: The DigitalMedia Fiber Transmitter (DMF-TX4K-SFP) and companion DigitalMedia Fiber Receiver (DMF-RMC-4K-SFP) are endpoints that can be connected to each other on a one-to-one basis for simple extender applications. Or they can be deployed as endpoints connected to cards in the chassis. SFP+ modules: The other required element for DM 4K/60 fiber solutions is SFP+ (Small Formfactor Pluggable) modules. The DM OUT and DM IN ports on the transmitters and receivers are configurable using SFP+ transceiver modules to enable compatibility with single-mode, multimode, and CresFiber® fiber types. Each DM 4K/60 fiber card and transmitter and receiver box is sold as a packaged kit containing an SFP+ module. These modules separate the optics from the electronics and plug-into the SFP+ slots in the transmitters and receivers to match the industry’s most common fiber types.

Key Features: • 2RU space. • Accommodates up to 8 of the new 4K.60 fiber cards • Chassis serves as a power supply and consolidation point. • Can be used with any DM solution. www.crestron.eu

COMMENTARY Systems Integration Asia December - January 2017

Out With The Old, In With The New Transforming Events With Laser Projectors by Amy Kwa, Department Head, Visual Instruments Business Unit Why do we flock to spectacular mass events when entertainment has moved into our pockets? In recent years, the predominant trend has been towards ever smaller and more personal delivery of entertainment and information, on devices like smartphones and tablets. Very convenient, of course, and many of us would find it hard to live without our smart devices, but something is seriously lacking. A smartphone is a complete fail when it comes to delivering the heart-thumping excitement and dramatic impact of large-scale events, with their spectacular visual effects and the mass emotion of vast crowds. Throughout history, people have flocked to massive-scale events at arenas, concert halls, stadiums and outdoor venues. Although so much individual personalised information and entertainment is now available to consumers on the go, there is paradoxically at the same time an even greater demand for the other end of the spectrum. Whether it’s a blockbuster movie, a killer product launch or an unforgettable award ceremony, large-scale public events are attracting ever-larger audiences – and those audiences are demanding increasingly engaging and captivating experiences. The dramatic impact of major public events has traditionally been due in large part to the efforts of teams of designers, carpenters, painters and props managers in producing physical

Epson projectors were used for projection mapping onto the floor of the performance as well as onto the Pramaban Temple in Yogyakarta, Indonesia

décor and backdrops – all of which involve the additional and unproductive cost of storage. Legacy AV systems would play their role in the set-up, but although existing projectors have been able to project on various surfaces and in large screen sizes, they have been restricted in terms of location and application due to the limited lifespan of the lamp. Today however, advanced laser projection technology promises to totally transform the event experience, eliminating the need for physical décor and props, while delivering a visual feast of colours and brightness that will mesmerize the audience. In the same way that technology has transformed how we access information and entertainment on a small-scale personal basis, it is today’s laser projection technology that is ensuring major public events meet – or exceed – audience expectations. The most exciting development is in video projection mapping. Today’s generation of laser projectors are a complete gamechanger, able to turn any surface - including entire buildings into a screen. Projections are free of distortion and can include 3D animation and even video. The scale of such projections can be jaw-dropping and hugely exciting for audiences, as they see the architecture of well-known landmarks transformed into dazzling animated canvases. It is no surprise that Epson, the number-one selling projector brand worldwide, is at the forefront of laser projector technology development.

COMMENTARY Systems Integration Asia December - January 2017

Epson’s new projectors are the first in the world to include inorganic 3LCD panels and a laser light source with an inorganic phosphor wheel. With this and other features, these projectors deliver spectacular image quality, reliability and flexibility. AV industry experts believe that the future of projection lies in solid-state technology. Laser phosphor projectors are a positive step in that direction. Compared to the current generation of projectors, laser phosphor combines the benefits of solid-state with a much lower cost of ownership, superior picture quality, and minimum maintenance requirement over a lifetime of several years. Laser phosphor technology and Epson How do phosphor lasers work? Phosphor wheels turn blue light emitted from a laser light source into yellow light. In the new projectors, the blue light from the laser is separated into two. One part is yellow, and the other part combines again with blue light to make white. Using a dichroic mirror, this white light is separated into the three base colours of red, green and blue. These are then passed through their respective LCD (HTPS) panels, put together and then projected on the screen. Epson’s range of 3LCD laser projectors ensure 20,000 maintenance-free hours of projection. The ability to run continuously without having to worry about lamp life will allow the new projectors to replace existing technologies in several scenarios. These include the home, where people will be able to enjoy TV images on a much larger scale than with traditional LCD TVs, and public locations that currently use LED displays for ads and digital signage. In an important step, Epson launched its EB-L25000U installation laser projector, the world's first 3LCD laser projector with 25,000 lumens of colour brightness and 25,000 lumens of white brightness in Southeast Asia. The EB-L25000U has a sealed optical engine with laser-light source with an inorganic phosphor wheel in combination with inorganic LCD panels, delivering up to 20,000 hours of virtually maintenance-free operation, including 24/7 use for applications that require continuous projection. Ideal for rental and staging, as well as permanent large venue installations, the EB-L25000U projector has advanced features which include a wide array of future-proof 4K-ready powered lenses with lens shift and lens memory, 360-degree installation flexibility, diverse connectivity options, and sealed optical engine design. Leveraging Epson's 4K Enhancement technology, the projector accepts 4K input and enhances a 1080p signal to surpass Full HD image quality. There is no doubt that laser phosphor technology is the future of projection. The technology features are robust and proven, and the benefits include spectacular visual experiences for consumers and significant cost savings for rental and staging vendors.

EB-L25000U: World's First 3LCD Laser Projector With 25,000 Lumens Exceptional Full HD Widescreen Display – Native WUXGA (1920 x 1200) with 4K Enhancement technology. 4K-Ready Lenses – These future-proof lenses project crisp images and are ready for true 4K applications. 4K Enhancement Technology – Revolutionary technology accepts 4K signal and enhances a 1080p signal to output that surpasses Full HD image quality. Solid-State Laser Light Source – Provides virtually maintenance-free operation up to 20,000 hours. Versatile Connectivity – Supports the full range of inputs including HDBaseT, 3G-SDI, and compatible with Crestron RoomView, AMX, Extron XTP, Control4, and Art-Net for easy integration. Web-based Remote Management – Control and monitor projector status via a Web browser. Dust-proof structure – Fully sealed optical engine prevents dust and reduce brightness deterioration. Multi-directional projection – Full 360 degree installation flexibility and can be rotated in any direction without any loss in image brightness. Outstanding Service and Support – Limited warranty of 20,000 hours of usage or three years, whichever comes first. www.epson.com.sg

TECH TALK Systems Integration Asia December - January 2017

Latency in Digital Media Systems: Are We There Yet? By Martin Bonsoir

One of the most wonderful aspects of our industry is the seemingly unstoppable advance of technology. Digital has replaced analogue for most tasks, with processing and data transport being two key areas. Digital signal processing (DSP) allows us to achieve things that were unimaginable only a few years ago, at a fraction of the cost, and with relative ease. The transmission of digital data affords us luxuries in terms of design flexibility and media delivery that have no parallel in the analogue world. This is especially true when we leverage Ethernet networks to transport video, audio, and/or control data. There are certain aspects of digital processing and transmission of data that we need to understand to make best use of the technology. One such aspect is latency, which is defined as the time it takes for the effect to take place after its cause. In the context of networks, this translates to the time required for data to get from one point to another. Think of it as the time it takes for a signal to travel over the wire (be it copper, fibre, or interdimensional gateways) from its source to its destination. In the context of processing, latency is the time from the moment data is fed to a processing circuit, until it emerges at its output. This processing can be an equaliser for an audio signal, the conversion of a video signal, or even the time it takes for an LCD monitor to display an image.

In digital AV systems, processing and transmission are often interlinked. We must at times consider both as separate variables, sometimes both as single figure, and sometimes only one of them. Confusing? You bet. Please allow me an attempt at explaining. Let’s consider a sound system used to amplify the voice of one or more people. A person will struggle to speak smoothly if they can hear their own voices through the system, so we must ensure the latency is minimised. Exactly how much delay is acceptable is debatable, but most people will agree that anything beyond 15-20ms is undesirable. Another common case when latency needs to be considered is when we distribute the same signal to multiple endpoints. If those endpoints are speakers within the same acoustic space or screens within the same visual field, we need to make sure the signal arrives to all locations at the same time. It is surprising how bothersome and distracting the tiniest of differences between two TV screens showing the same moving image can be. In the case of speakers within the same acoustic space, uncontrolled differences in latency can result in intolerable phase cancellations.

Let’s mix it up. Professional AV systems are characterised by low latencies that can be guaranteed across the system (known as deterministic delivery), so in addition to knowing the amount of latency through a system, we may need to ensure it’s the same for all endpoints within the system. For example, it is common practice to use multiple microphones in a room and to mix the signals from those microphones at some point in the signal path. When doing so, we must take into consideration that it is possible for different signals to have different processing paths:

SIGNAL 1 (TOP) AND SIGNAL 2 (BOTTOM) INPUT

PROCESS

INPUT

PROCESS

OUTPUT

PROCESS

OUTPUT

TECH TALK Systems Integration Asia December - January 2017

Irrespective of what the processes are (filtering, equalisation, dynamic processing, echo cancellation, etc.), there will be some finite amount of time required to process the signal at each step. Even if that latency is small, it is easy to see how Signal #2 will have greater latency than Signal #1. In our example, it may be that the two microphones could have picked up the same voice. And if the next step in the processing chain was to mix the two signals together, undue additions and/or cancellations at various frequency bands will result because of the differences in phase.

Divide and Conquer…or Be Conquered Another way processing delay can become troublesome is when we end up with the following processing chain:

matches (is synchronised to) the lip movement seen on the screen (Milli Vanilli, anyone?). Here, the signals that need to be synchronised at the point of delivery are of different types: audio and video. The difference in signal type often means their processing will have different latencies, which can be exacerbated if separate transmission methods are used. Again, exact figures of when people will notice lack of synchronisation and start to express discomfort or dissatisfaction are debated. The International Telecommunications Union recommend lip sync to be within +45 to -125 milliseconds, while others work within the +40 to -25 range or in some cases, no more than +/22 is considered acceptable. It depends on the application and circumstances, but here’s something to think about: studies* have indicated that synchronisation offsets in these bands can

A SIGNAL DISTRIBUTED TO DIFFERENT OUTPUTS WITH DIFFERENT PROCESSING INPUT

PROCESS

OUTPUT 1

PROCESS

OUTPUT 2

In this example, the signal will arrive at Output 1 before it reaches Output 2. Depending on the circumstances, this may be permissible…or disastrous.

have the subconscious effect of making the program material seem less believable and therefore less trustworthy.

Yet another example of a real-world scenario where latency plays a key role is lip sync. Lip sync is the term associated in achieving a situation where audio heard by the listener

To ensure phase coherence or lip sync when signals have different latencies, a delay equal to the offset to the “slower” signal path is typically applied to the “faster” signal:

He Who Waits…

ADDING DELAY TO SIGNALS BEFORE THEY ARE MIXED TO ENSURE PHASE COHERENCE INPUT

PROCESS

PROCESS PROCESS

INPUT

PROCESS

DELAY

OUTPUT

TECH TALK Systems Integration Asia December - January 2017

ADDING DELAY TO SIGNALS BEFORE THEY ARE AMPLIFIED TO ENSURE PHASE COHERENCE

INPUT

OUTPUT 1

DELAY

PROCESS

OUTPUT 2

ADDING DELAY TO AUDIO TO ACHIEVE LIP SYNC WITH VIDEO VIDEO INPUT

PROCESS

AUDIO INPUT

PROCESS

VIDEO OUTPUT

DELAY

AUDIO OUTPUT

Accurately configuring these delays for each signal path can, at times, be difficult and time consuming, but it is a vitally important part of system design and commission. The task is made more difficult when dealing with systems comprised of devices from multiple vendors, and if using disparate media transport technologies.

Networked Media Systems (like Biamp’s Tesira) automatically calculate and implement all required internal delays to ensure that audio and video signals are synchronised throughout the signal path. Unimaginable only a few years ago, it’s a feature that saves a lot of work and numerous headaches along the life of a project.

Networked media transmission protocols like AVB/TSN, CobraNet, or Dante guarantee a network-wide deterministic latency; but only AVB/TSN can transport both audio and video signals. This provides a huge advantage since having the same transmission latency for both signal types eliminates the need for applying manual audio delays to the signal paths.

And as I mentioned before, one of the most wonderful aspects of our industry is the seemingly unstoppable advance of technology. www.biamp.com

* “Effects of Audio Video Asynchrony on Viewer’s Memory, Evaluation of Content and Detection Ability,” Stanford University, United States of America Martin Bonsoir is the EMEIA Applications Engineering Manager, overseeing operations in Europe, Middle East, India, and Africa. With more than 23 years of pro-audio experience, Martin’s passion for people and all things audio continue to add richness and insight to his work everyday.

TECH TALK Systems Integration Asia December - January 2017

Huddle Rooms: The New Technology Package For Businesses As the demands of business evolved, the workplace technology infrastructure required to change for the next level, and technology thought leaders had to reinvent their models. Like the aphoristic rhetoric of ‘small is big’ the evolution of small meeting, and interactive rooms have come to determine the way enterprises collaborate or ‘huddle’ to make business. That Crestron has been one of the pathfinders to business challenges, SI Asia interacted with two top executives of the control automation major’s EMEA region – Stijn Ooms, Technology Director, Crestron EMEA and Vincent Philippo, Regional Director Crestron MEA – to know more about the new technology package. Excerpts:

SI Asia: What space does the concept typically occupy in today’s audio-visual domain? STIJN: The days of large conference rooms for meetings and videoconferencing are almost over, the Huddle room concept is taking over and the technology has developed to make this happen.

SI Asia: How has Crestron impacted the Huddle Room technologies space?

Stijn Ooms, Technology Director, Crestron EMEA

Vincent Philippo, Regional Director Crestron MEA

SI Asia: How do you see the genesis and evolution of Huddle Room technologies? STIJN: The workplace is constantly reinventing itself, demanding new technology to make enterprise collaboration and sharing much easier. In a hectic work environment, space can be limited and hooking up technology can be time consuming. That’s why growing businesses need more convenient and technology packed spaces accessible for conferencing and presenting. Huddle rooms are small, interactive rooms that help increase productivity through state-of-the-art technology, and unite co-workers for presenting, collaborating and decision making. With Crestron solutions, these small spaces become powerful, and can make any meeting or presentation easier than ever before.

SI Asia: What factors do you see as contributing to the rapid growth of Huddle Room concept, despite its being relatively recent one? STIJN: Offices are becoming more open plan and where space is limited, flexibility is the key. In addition, more and more companies are offering employees flexible working, alternative working hours and the option to work from home to create better work life balance. Space for multiple huddle rooms allows meetings to take place sporadically and immediately which makes business more dynamic and keeps people on task and attentive.

STIJN: The number of huddle rooms and small meeting rooms is on the rise. This has created the need for a simple, complete, low-cost multimedia presentation solution, which is precisely what integrators will find in the HD-MD-400-C-E. It packs HDBaseT extension, a scaler for optimal image display, automatic switching for HD resolutions up to 2K, display control, and Ethernet connectivity, all in a pair of compact, easy to deploy devices. Composed of a compact 3X1 transmitter and an HD receiver, the HD-MD-400-C-E can be installed in just minutes, with no special programming required. Mount the transmitter under a table or inside a podium. With two HDMI inputs, one VGA input, and one analog audio input, it supports the connection of computers, mobile devices, and other media sources. Mount the receiver behind the room display or above the projector. The receiver features an additional HDMI input for a local source, such as a Crestron AirMedia (AM-100) wireless presentation gateway.

SI Asia: What, according to you, is Crestron’s best contribution thus far to the Huddle Room technologies? STIJN: Enabling employees to be as productive as possible is a constant struggle. But the answer is actually simple: remove all obstacles in their way. Now, there is a solution that does exactly that. Having Crestron Fusion enterprise management technology in the building and the Crestron PinPoint Mobile App on your smart devices clears a path for you to work smarter, faster, and more efficiently. Interruptions are minimised; it’s like having a personal assistant at your side throughout the day. Advanced room search capability ensures there's no wandering the halls searching for an available meeting room or booking

TECH TALK Systems Integration Asia December - January 2017

SI Asia: Which one you find the most challenging? And why? VINCENT: Each market has its own different challenges. At the end it’s up to us to convince our customers that besides the big rooms and meeting spaces, we also have the best solution for the small meeting areas.

SI Asia: Which Vertical market in the region you consider as the biggest taker of Huddle Rooms? VINCENT: The biggest demand for huddle rooms we see in the educational and corporate market space.

the wrong type of room, you also no longer have to wait to get back to your desk to schedule a follow up meeting. You no longer have to type in IP addresses, manually dial, or fumble around trying to connect devices to display your presentation. There’s no wasted time starting your meeting.

SI Asia: There are quite a few competing brands on the market. How does Crestron differentiate itself, or what USPs does Crestron carry with it to the install/user space? STIJN: Crestron integrates systems and technologies that typically operate in silos, so they work together as a single system. Audio, video, voice and data, lighting, security, digital signage, Building Management Systems (BMS), shades, and HVAC systems can be centrally monitored, managed and controlled. Crestron software adds a layer of intelligence to turn an organisation into an Intelligent Enterprise. Crestron Fusion provides more data points and connects them in ways that no other software can. Robust usage and analytic reports supply the intelligence and insight needed to make informed decisions about purchasing, scheduling, resource allocation, and workspace design that make knowledge workers more productive and organisations more efficient. From global device management, room booking and advanced scheduling, Helpdesk and support to asset and space utilization analysis.

SI Asia: MEA is a diverse market place. Which geography within the Middle East you think is more adaptive to these technologies? VINCENT: Since we launched our solutions earlier this year for smaller spaces we’ve already seen a rapid growth for these products. There is not a specific country where our solution is more popular than other areas. From the Levant to The Gulf region the small room solutions are widely adapted. However, the market for small rooms in offices will be bigger in the UAE than other countries because the total number of companies is much higher as for example in Saudi Arabia or Kuwait.

SI Asia: What do you feel is the prospect of Huddle Room business in the Middle East, in the near future? VINCENT: Without a doubt the requirements for huddle rooms will keep growing. We estimate that more than 20 per cent of our DigitalMedia business will be for the small room solutions within the next 12 months and the percentage will keep growing.

SI Asia: What challenges do you foresee? How would you intend to address them? VINCENT: The biggest of challenges is competition and budget. There are many different manufacturers offering systems for small spaces. Crestron’s biggest advantages are that we offer complete solutions which work together as a single system and connectivity to Fusion for room booking. Our task is to get this message into the marketspace and show our partners and the end users what we have to offer is the best.

SI Asia: Having come thus far, what do you think is the next level in Huddle Room concept? STIJN: Technology is still too exposed to the worker. They shouldn’t worry about this but they should be able to do their job; meet, present, make calls and collaborate. Today, there are still too many devices required, from a desk phone, USB speaker, mic, BYOD devices (phone, tablet, laptop) and a remote control. The next step is to reduce device overload. The biggest challenges for meeting rooms are budget – cost per room; usability – consistent, simple UX; scalability – network deployment and management and workplace management – spaces, people and technology. www.crestron.eu

COUNTRY ANALYSIS Systems Integration Asia December - January 2017

QATAR According to InfoComm International studies, the Middle East and Africa professional AV markets have a combined value of US$4.63 billion and are one of the world’s fastest-growing. The Middle Eastern ProAV market has been estimated to be registering a compound annual growth rate of 15 percent from 2012 to 2016. Megaprojects in the Gulf Cooperation Council are a US$144 billion endeavour. World Expo 2020 and FIFA World Cup 2022 are amongst marquee highlights that have captured the world’s attention. These projects are propelling the hospitality sector, which as of October 2015 registered a 43.1 percent year-on-year increase in rooms under construction. Thus appropriately, this issue’s Country focus is on Qatar where the FIFA World Cup is scheduled to be held in 2022. We did a survey and got back the results from a mix of SIs, Distributors and Consultants based in Qatar. Not surprisingly Hospitality is seeing the highest growth in terms of projects with brands getting themselves ready for the inflow of visitors for the World Cup. Here is the survey result in graphics.

21% 40%

13% 26%

Survey Respondents Job Scope Installation/Integration 40% Sales and Supply of Equipment 26% Consultation Service 13% Combination of Integration and Sales of Equipment 21%

COUNTRY ANALYSIS Systems Integration Asia December - January 2017

HOSPITALITY EXPECTED TO SEE THE STRONGEST GROWTH Which segment do you see foresee will have the highest growth? Corporate 16% Government 16% Retail 2% Hospitality 45% Venues/Events 18% Healthcare 2% Transport 2%

DISPLAYS AND CONFERENCING SYSTEMS ARE EXPECTED TO LEAD THE PACK What type of solutions do you think will see the strongest growth? 25%

25%

15%

IPTV

reinforcement

Control Systems Sound

Displays

Projectors

AV & Conferencing

Lighting system

AV Acquisition & Delivery

12%

COUNTRY ANALYSIS Systems Integration Asia December - January 2017

AFTER SALES SERVICE CONSTITUTE A SMALL PERCENTAGE OF THEIR OVERALL REVENUE What percentage of revenue does after-sales-service generate for your company? 50 – 70 percent

20 – 50 percent

19% 0 – 20 percent

80%

PRICE SENSITIVE CUSTOMERS ARE THE GREATEST CHALLENGE TO THE AV BUSINESS What is the greatest challenge for your business?

Price sensitive customers 67% Lack of skilled manpower 11% Challenges from vendors outside the AV Realm 11% Customers not understanding what you do 11%

ONLY 55% OF RESPONDENTS DO BUSINESS OUTSIDE QATAR Do you have business in the rest of the Middle East?

NO 45%

YES 55%

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COUNTRY ANALYSIS Systems Integration Asia December - January 2017

PERSPECTIVE

By Shehzad Hussain

Moving Towards A Grand Vision, With Promise

Qatar has been in news for the past few years, particularly from the perspective of technology embracement, for all the good reasons. The Government’s prioritization and focus on information and communication technology, and unfolding of events relating to infrastructural development have resulted in potential/preferential sectors like sports, education, hospitality and healthcare adopting AV technologies like never before. Here is a perspective: such as Digital Signage and Multi-Purpose Large Format Displays and more. With different organs of Qatar’s administrative mechanism working with zest and in tandem, the country is gradually ascending in this direction. The result of this carefully implemented plans – they are still being implemented – Qatar has evolved into the third largest market in the Middle East for professional audio-visual systems. While the AV market in the Middle East region in general has been estimated to be growing at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 15 per cent from 2012 to 2016, the Qatari AV industry has also been demonstrating significant growth potential, and is expected to continue for the next five years or so, contributing to the region’s growth indices. Audio-visual and systems integration companies in Qatar, therefore, have immense opportunities coming their way.

Shehzad Hussain, AV Design Consultant, TECHNOMIGHT Qatar W.L.L.

eing the world’s largest exporter of Liquefied Natural Gas, Qatar is one of the richest economies in the Middle East, with huge oil and natural gas reserves making for the Persian Peninsular country’s main economic base. However, that the oil reserves cannot be taken for granted for long, if not for ever, the government has been prioritizing its measures in exploring alternative avenues to foster a much stable and persistent economical footprint. One of the Government’s main priorities is to become an International higher education hub in the region for a sustainable economy. Accordingly, there have been some very specific initiatives in the direction. Vision and Mission for Digital Society: For last few years, the government has been focusing on ICT industry digitization by means of an organization called ICTQATAR (http://www. ictqatar.qa/en) converging its attention towards a ‘digital society’ for enhancing quality of services provided by Government entities for its citizens. The experiencing of fading boundaries between audio visual communication technologies and information technology, has also led to the realization that AV can be effectively utilized to bridge between public safety, awareness, critical information delivery and to enhance the overall experience of the citizenry through various AV solutions

However, ‘with big opportunities come the big challenges,’ they say, and it is in this light of positives and their implications, Qatar’s AV market needs converging efforts towards improving the quality parameters of professional AV installs in the country. With only few professionally accredited AV System Integration Companies based in Qatar, and very few trained/skilled and experienced AV Professionals, the quality of workmanship certainly requires a consolidated approach for improvement. That there is less market competition (when compared to Europe or North America), can be both a threat and an opportunity too. While the situation can be taken as a comfort zone, leading to a sense of complacency, it can also be leveraged as a provision with enough critical space to improvise the quality of their offerings. Having said that, Qatar experienced some of the best and large scale Pro-AV installs in the region in the last few years – in stadiums/sporting facilities, training and conference centres, auditoriums, medical procedure and research facilities, leisure and retail entertainment destinations, and more – leveraging state-of-the-art products, and solutions, available globally. In fact, Qatar is credited with being the first market in the Middle East to have introduced many a latest and innovative technology, particularly, in corporate and government segments- apparently moving in line with the government’s vision towards ‘the digital society.’

The Promising Four: While there is a generic enthusiasm about investments happening in various domains, four verticals have emerged to be most dynamic over the past few years: Sports, Education,

COUNTRY ANALYSIS Systems Integration Asia December - January 2017

Healthcare and Hospitality. Within these major categories, areas that have constituted major inflows included the climatecontrolled soccer stadiums for FIFA 2022 World Cup; Qatar Foundation for Education, Science and Community Development; Sidra Medical and Research Center; and Hospitality Qatar, along with some private business owners in hospitality.

On the other hand, that the mega event as it is would have a tsunami of spectators, and that it is first such major spectacle in the region, it would bring enormous business to Hospitality segment. It would therefore open an exponential demand for solutions such as digital signage, IPTV, GRMS, background music, pro-AV, and meeting spaces.

Interestingly for the sporting domain, Qatar has been evolving into a center-point in the Middle East for various international sporting events for over a decade now that has ultimately led to the country’s bagging the rights for the prestigious FIFA World Cup in 2022. Given the size and scale, and the very nature of the technological systems and solutions that the event has is known for, it is understandably on everyone’s mind and discussion channel. From the perspective of AVSI enterprises, the event is particularly hoped to bring significant advantages. Not only AV broadcast systems, operation control rooms, digital signage, large format displays and videowalls, public announcements, and event management, and many more.

Security is an indisputable segment to gain from this very event as solutions like surveillance and control command centres, network operation centres, would be in high demand, and therefore a huge opportunity for security solutions providers. Overall, the four major verticals detailed above stand to bring big business opportunities for AV manufacturers and solutions vendors.

With the government’s push for cutting edge/digital technologies, , Qatar has embraced some of the latest AV technology. Here is a case in point. First Smallest 1.5mm Pixel Pitch Indoor Full HD Direct LED Videowall for Leading Telecom Company in Qatar: As a futuristic approach based on latest bezel-free Direct LED videowall technologies, we were approached to commission the smallest pixel pitch 1.5mm Full HD videowall display in a first-of –its-kind Indoor Conference Room application. This bezel free display solution from SliconCore contributes to a high brightness visual content for a superlative experience and decision making. The solution comes with graphics processing, multiple picture-in-picture facility, control systems, conferencing, annotation, wireless content sharing and wireless touch control facilities. This is a modern-day collaboration space, equipped with proximity-based IoT scenarios that adjust the

An InfoComm report AV opportunities in Qatar recently stated “with infrastructure growth, large projects, economic and demographic shifts in Middle East, the region can be a strong opportunity market for AV vendors and service providers.”

room with changing dynamics of unified communications space based on individual’s presence in room. The install is a one-of-a-kind modern corporate solution concept for effective meeting spaces. Operations Center for Leading Telecom Company in Qatar Successfully deployed and operationalized two video walls in Operations Centers. A total of 52 units of NEC Full HD narrow bezel professional displays were installed. Each display measured 55-inch diagonal with narrow bezel to accommodate the high definition output as required. Operators were provided by with complete IP-based control solution allowing them to distribute as many as eight applications in configurations of choice over the video wall. Shehzad Hussain is AV Design Consultant at Doha-based TECHNOMIGHT Qatar W.L.L. He can be reached at shehzad@technomight.com

COUNTRY ANALYSIS Systems Integration Asia December - January 2017

INTERVIEW

Manifesting ‘Glocal’ Capabilities, Audio-Visually The dynamism that the global forums and researchers advocate about Qatar’s audio-visual industry is perhaps best demonstrated in the emergence of PANOUTRON- an AV enterprise that formed by the coming together of two companies from two distant and distinct geographies, if not continents. Blending internationally Grecian expertise with Qatari local strengths is what the AVSI enterprise promises. SI Asia interacted with two of PANOUTRON’s top Execs, from respective backgrounds, – Chief Operating Officer Apostolis Koulosousas and Chairman Talal Wehbe – to know more about the success story. Excerpts:

A theatre project done by PANOUTRON

SI Asia: Tell us something about Panoutron, its genesis, purpose and focus… APOSTOLIS & TALAL: PANOUTRON was founded by coming together of two companies from two different continents, so to say. It was formed by a combination of PANOU S.A. which was founded in Athens in 1964, and LUMATRON Qatar W.L.L. which had its original parental foundation in Lebanon in 1977, and began operations in Qatar from 2002. The combined entity named PANOUTRON came into being in September 2012. PANOUTRON’s aim is to provide end-to-end turnkey ELV integrated systems and solutions. The company’s strength comes from its strong and 50-year-long experience in creative, cost-effective, and advanced ELV systems. The focus is on major vertical markets that include Hospitality, Corporate, Education and Residential segments. Panoutron COO Apostolis Koulosousas & Chairman Talal Wehbe

COUNTRY ANALYSIS Systems Integration Asia December - January 2017

Our vision is to become the first choice for our customers in the local as well as the international markets by providing reliable integrated and high-quality technology solutions. It’s been a fairly satisfactory journey, and we endeavour to better ourselves every time towards reaching our goal.

SI Asia: How would you explain the purpose of the two companies coming together, from such distant geographies, and continents? APOSTOLIS & TALAL: PANOU S.A. had been exploring the opportunities landscapes to expand its market cap, and in early 2012, the management felt it was time they expanded their operations beyond Europe. It was around the same time that Lumatron Qatar W.L.L. – who had been one of the major suppliers in Qatar for lighting solutions – was looking to expand to other market segments, especially in Lighting Control and Home Automation systems. It was a matching of minds, at the right time. The whole idea was that PANOU S.A. would bring to place its rich know-how and experience for ELV Integrated Systems, and Lumatron Qatar W.L.L. would provide the knowledge of local market and clientele. It all gelled well and they got going, successfully since then.

SI Asia: What particular synergies did the union of two bring to the combined entity? How did they help the cause of Panoutron? APOSTOLIS & TALAL: The most essential synergy is the international expertise of PANOU got strengthened with effective penetration through the local market reach capabilities of Lumatron, and vice-versa. It provided a proper mix to have successful startup. It showed almost immediate results by being awarded small and big projects so as to grow fast within four years of operation.

SI Asia: Panoutron’s operational ambit is too huge and wide. What exactly is the core competence of the company? APOSTOLIS & TALAL: PANOUTRON is essentially a Low Voltage Systems Integration company. We structured our operations and selected our key personnel in a way that we will serve our customers and projects in the best possible way as regards with ELV systems design, installation, training and after-sales support. While that stays as the core competency area, it is accompanied by other allied activities.

SI Asia: How much does core competency area account in the company’s overall business? APOSTOLIS & TALAL: Our Systems Integration activity accounts for almost 95 per cent of our overall business.

SI Asia: Panoutron is relatively young, compared to those operating in Qatar for decades. What strengths helps it stand and make good with the competition? APOSTOLIS & TALAL: Even if PANOUTRON is young in the Qatari market, it carries vast experience and know-how from people working with us for long time, with credible industry expertise. As it is, like mentioned above, the company’s technology competence is powered by international expertise of long standing, and local presence is supported by strong local company. Because of the long history in this market sector, via PANOU S.A. Greece, we have established long-term business relationships with major manufacturers, which allow us to offer high quality, reliable solutions and services at best price. Our strength is the deep knowledge and the expertise of our personnel in the systems we install. We schedule periodic trainings for all of our personnel in all systems from different manufacturers that we supply and install. That renders them to be up-to-date with the existing technology and systems, and informed about future trends. In addition, we are having our personnel certified by InfoComm for AVT and CTS. All these measures ensure that our market approach is professional as well as competent to meet the customers’ requirements.

SI Asia: How has those strengths impacted the Qatari AVSI market? Please explain… APOSTOLIS & TALAL: The Qatari AVSI market was, in general, lacking professionally skilled and experienced Systems Integrators. Very few SI companies were able, and had the required skillsets to complete an AV project properly. This was the gap we exactly wanted to bridge by bringing in our trusted expertise and competence. We endeavoured to bring to place those skills and work culture that we have been internationally known for- high quality install work, as per the delivery schedule and within the expected cost. All that has translated into our strong footprint and contributed to the way projects are handled in the market- in terms of deliverables and work culture. Evidently, our position today is based on those credentials and strengths.

SI Asia: Would you please do a snapshot SWOT of the industry? APOSTOLIS & TALAL: Strengths: evolving technology trends/ tenets, growing market, users getting familiar with technology, which contributes to increasing awareness about the need for technology deployment and the benefits that it brings. Weaknesses: limited access to qualified and skilled human talent; lack of professionalism; lack of after-sales support culture. All these contribute to dampen the growth dynamism.

COUNTRY ANALYSIS Systems Integration Asia December - January 2017

Opportunities: Tremendous space and scope to grow. Plenitude of large-scale projects creating huge opportunity for a variety of AV technologies to be taken. Threats: Bad SI companies with bad installations (or skills) which result in people growing apprehensive about new technology and the use of it; operation of AV systems from unqualified personnel.

SI Asia: Given all that, how would you characterize Qatari AV industry in comparison with other regional markets such as UAE, Saudi, and Kuwait etc. APOSTOLIS & TALAL: There are many positives to take, and vouch for. For instance, technology adoption- Qatar is more dynamically growing, moving faster than last few years, and fast catching up with advanced markets like the UAE. Like maintained earlier, the market offers a multitude of medium and large scale projects – thanks to the huge infrastructural thrust all over, due to several factors in public and private segment – meaning opportunity for diverse forms and levels of audio-visual systems to be taken. This, in a way, is unique, and a step forward when compared to other GCC countries. There are concerns of course. As cited already, lack of trained or skilled human talent availability is one. We are trying to improve the situation in our own right – given our strengths from international presence – by hiring skilled professionals from Europe, UAE, Saudi and Kuwait, and elsewhere. While professionalism in business is also sometimes a concern, on a comparative note, it is not lower than other countries in the region. Having said that, this is an area that requires plenty of action still, and we have been putting our might to improve this.

SI Asia: How about the technology understanding among the End User community?

they are keen on using it in their everyday environment, especially the young generation, and there is also that section of End Users that do not understand technology; they tend to desist/resist using it. Probably, a thought here to comprehend! When technology is simple and used to serve the End User needs, and not make their life difficult, it is much easier to be absorbed.

SI Asia: What technology/solution do you think is driving the Qatar AV industry? APOSTOLIS & TALAL: Qatar’s AV industry is moving into unified IT and AV technology solutions, i.e. in videoconferencing, audio and video sharing, collaboration, virtual reality, etc.

SI Asia: How do you look at Qatar industryas a technology-driven market, or pricedriven? APOSTOLIS & TALAL: It is both. The industry displays a tendency as looking to get the best technology and solutions at the best possible price. We believe it the best approach too. Not going just for the heck of technology boast, or by sheer price, and compromising on essentials of the requirement.

SI Asia: What, according to you, has been the biggest thing that happened to Qatar AV industry in recent times? Please explain… APOSTOLIS & TALAL: The biggest thing that has happened to Qatar AV industry over the last few years has been the shift from analog to digital. There has been a paradigm shift in signal and communication distribution for AV systems. This created a lot of new opportunities in the market along with new capabilities and features provided to the End Users. (SI Asia thanks both Apostolis Koulosousas and Talal Wehbe for sharing their valuable time and inputs) www.panoutron.com

APOSTOLIS & TALAL: As everywhere in the world, Qatar market too does have End Users who are driven by technology;

VIP Lounge by PANOUTRON

SPECIAL FEATURE Systems Integration Asia December - January 2017

SMART CITY

We have all heard this term and some of us may already be involved in providing solutions to Smart Cities. According to Frost & Sullivan, global Smart Cities market is to reach US$1.56 trillion by 2020 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; just a few years from now. Over 25 Global Cities are expected to be Smart Cities in 2025, with most of them mainly to be found in Europe and USA. Asia is picking up on this and India is one country that has set its sight at creating 100 Smart Cities, with China highlighting that Smart Cities will be a central tenent of its urban plan. SI Asia speaks to Kenny Yeo, Senior Industry Analyst, IoT and Connected Industries, Asia Pacific, Frost & Sullivan to understand more about Smart Cities.

What constitutes a Smart City? Frost & Sullivan views a smart city as an enabling platform built by the government, for the people, to understand and manage the interactions between people and the infrastructure in a city and to guide informed policy making through the intelligent usage of technology. It is important to understand that although technology is an enabling platform to achieve the goals and vision of a smart city, technology should not be equated with smart city itself. A smart city can be visualized as comprising multiple smart industries and smart constituent elements, such as Smart Healthcare, Smart Mobility and Smart Governance. This faceted view provides a way to identify important industries to address when designing a smart city.

How is a Smart City going to contribute to the overall well-being of an individual, a society or even a country? The ultimate aim of a smart city cannot simply be the implementation of technology. The focus has to always remain on the citizen. Cities around the world are competing with each other to be citizen-centric, to attract and retain worldclass talent and to create a smart society. A Smart Society promotes a culture of inclusiveness, resiliency and innovation, and provides a well-governed, sustainable and safe environment to cater to the aspirations of its people, provide better quality of life and drive economic vibrancy moving forward.

SPECIAL FEATURE Systems Integration Asia December - January 2017

In a smart city, citizens are better served through improved policy planning based on a better understanding of citizen's needs and expectations. Individuals are also given access to more information, both to make better individual decisions, as well as to co-create solutions that can benefit society. Businesses have a conducive environment to operate in and optimize from, where new opportunities are created through data, innovation and connectivity.

What drives a city to become smart? Most cities that start on their "smart" journey often decide to pursue efficiency solutions first. This involves employing technology to gain higher efficiency from existing systems. Some examples include intelligent transport systems, e-Government and smart meters. Extending from efficiency, advanced technology could be applied to better provide for public safety. Data management and analytics can potentially help cities to understand, predict, prevent and mitigate threats, providing citizens with more peace of mind. For example, the city of Vancouver used smart city public safety solutions to improve their safety capabilities prior to the 2010 Winter Games. From the base of efficiency, cities can then take the next step towards innovation by building and co-creating innovative services. By engaging citizens and businesses, smart city solutions can be developed in areas beyond typical government domains. In Singapore for example, the government has made datasets from various agencies available to the public to encourage application development and facilitate co-creation. Several local developers have leveraged this data to create interesting apps to help commuters on their daily travels with bus and train alerts.

Building innovative services on top of efficiency Stronger public safety and emergency response Building a foundation of efficiency

What is the potential business in relation to Smart Cities in Asia? Frost & Sullivan views the creation of a city platform as crucial to enable collaboration and co-innovation with citizens and business. The city platform is made up of three levels:

Sensorizing the City Involves installation of sensors, actuators, digital signage, cameras and others in the city, and offering the ability to citizens, businesses and agencies to access sensor data through the cloud. As the capabilities of sensors continue to improve and become smaller, sensors are expected to be integrated at the chip level. Sensors will be increasingly found in everyday objects and devices, providing real time visibility of the objects and the ability to control these objects and devices.

City Middleware This integration layer comprises of data-centric architecture and frameworks, leveraging technologies like communications, IoT, data center, cyber security and big data analytics, to offer everything as a service.

Services Mashup From the foundation of sensors and middleware, the city can then provide application software-as-a-service. This will leverage shared city data and enable the incubation of new open services and business models. There is business potential across all three layers. The infrastructure layer is the most mature. Over the medium term, we anticipate business potential at the city middleware to aggregate data and drive efficiency in the city. But over the long term, when there is enormous data collected, more service applications can be created to solve urban challenges.

What would be considered an ideal Smart City? We point back to the idea of a smart city enabling a smart society. The problem is that there is too much emphasis on efficiency. There is a need to build smart cities together with citizens, to get their inputs on the types of service applications that they will find useful through platforms that encourage twoway communication. Such an initiative can start small within a neighbourhood before extending outwards. Only through such interaction can a smart city hope to meet the aspirations of its people to provide a better way of life. www.frost.com

Services Mashup

City application service leveraging shared data to enable new services and business models

City Middleware

Supporting communication, collaboration and orchestration

â&#x20AC;&#x153;Sensorizingâ&#x20AC;? the City

Installation of sensors to gather data from the physical environment

CITY PLATFORM

SPECIAL FEATURE Systems Integration Asia December - January 2017

‘The Smart City Playbook’: Dubai Silicon Oasis Master Plan

Mobile phone giant-turned smart ICT solutions provider Nokia recently came out with a surprise package on Smart Cities. In what it called ‘The Smart City Playbook’ – a strategy report rather that documents best practices for smart cities – the ICT major sought to provide concrete guidance to city leaders on successful strategies used by major urban establishments around the world for town planners make their cities smarter, safer and more sustainable. Commissioned by Nokia and developed by Machina Research, a leading provider of strategic market intelligence on the Internet of Things (IoT), the playbook was developed through primary research into the strategies and progress of 22 cities around the world including Dubai, Jeddah and Cape Town. The study uncovered significant diversity in the smart city strategies of different cities, but identified three distinct ‘routes’ that cities are taking to make themselves smarter. The ‘anchor’ route involves a city deploying a single application to address a pressing problem such as traffic congestion, and then adding other applications over time. The ‘platform’ route involves building the underlying infrastructure needed to support a wide variety of smart applications and services. ‘Beta Cities’, by contrast, try out multiple applications as pilots to see how they perform before making long-term deployment decisions.

Cities profiled in the study include Auckland, Bangkok, Barcelona, Berlin, Bogota, Bristol, Cape Town, Cleveland, Delhi, Dubai, Jeddah, Mexico City, New York City, Paris, Pune, San Francisco, São Paulo, Shanghai, Singapore, Tokyo, Vienna and Wuxi. While the study found significant differences between cities, even amongst those following same route, it also concluded that there are several practices used by successful smart cities that would appear to be of universal benefit. That include: • Open and transparent rules for the use of data (on which all smart cities are dependent) by government departments and third parties, whether shared freely or monetized to cover data management costs. • Advanced in their committed journey to make the ICT and IoT infrastructure accessible to users both inside and outside of government, and have avoid creation of ‘silos’ among government departments. • Governments (and their third-party partners) actively engage residents in smart city initiatives, most notably those where the benefits are highly visible such as smart lighting and smart parking. • Scalable infrastructure so that it can grow and evolve to meet future needs, and secure to provide certainty that both government and private data are protected.

SPECIAL FEATURE Systems Integration Asia December - January 2017

Study How It Is Done • Select technology partners that can provide innovation capacity, ability to invest and real-world experience, along with technology platforms that are open to avoid vendor lock-in The study offers myriad, real-world examples of how various cities are managing challenges including those identified above.

Key Findings from Dubai, Jeddah, and Cape Town: Dubai: • Funding: Tying smart projects to key infrastructure sites with its own funding makes it easier to unlock capital for investment in smart infrastructure. Expo 2020 site is a good example for this. • Dedicated test beds: Through setting up the Dubai Silicon Oasis Authority (DSOA) as a dedicated test site for smart applications, the city is able to trial projects in a controlled environment before full-scale rollouts. • Communications: From the beginning, Dubai administration realized the importance of communicating the benefits of its initiatives to its citizens and getting feedback from them, for example through its ‘happiness meter’.

Jeddah: • Jeddah is not a smart city yet. The concept of smart city in Jeddah is much broader than elsewhere and includes regeneration projects, such as improving the waterfront, the city’s roads and how it copes with storms. • Ambitious city; it has a great appetite to develop its digital infrastructure. By exploiting the potential offered for broadband connectivity, cloud and IoT, the administration seeks to improve services for citizens.

Cape Town: • The city is very early on in its smart city programmes. Nonetheless, two key lessons may be identified: • Location: Cape Town is adopting an approach suitable to its local context. Rather than pursuing grand projects that its citizenry cannot benefit from, it is tailoring its efforts to what it perceives are their needs. • Training: The city made strong efforts in investing in the less glamorous, but necessary work of providing basic training to ensure that people in the city are equipped to make use of digital services as they are introduced.

According to a United Nations, 2014 Revision of World Urbanization Prospects survey, it is expected that as much as 66 percent of the world’s population will live in urban centers by 2050, making it critical for governments and other stakeholders to put strategies in place to more effectively meet the needs of their growing populations. Intelligent ICT and IoT platforms have therefore have very critical roles to play in the evolution of smart cities. The study concluded that many cities are already leveraging these technologies to optimize services and infrastructure, make better-informed decisions, boost economic development, encourage social interactions and make their communities safer and eco-friendly while improving the delivery of a range of public services. “The process of making a city smart is extremely complex, and there are so many different strategies being put forward in the market that choosing the right path for your city can be an enormous challenge, says Joachim Wuilmet, Head of Customer Marketing and Communications at Nokia. “Our goal in commissioning this report by Machina Research was to cut through the clutter and identify strategies that are clearly working for cities. As a global leader in the technologies that connect people and things, Nokia clearly has a great interest in helping bring clarity to the market, and to identify important focus areas,” he explained. “We look forward to helping cities develop the shared, secure and scalable networks and platforms needed to enable the human possibilities of smart, safe and sustainable cities.” Says Jeremy Green, Principal Analyst at Machina Research and author of the Smart City Playbook: “No one said becoming a smart city would be easy. There are lots of choices to be made. The technology and the business models are evolving rapidly, so there are many degrees of uncertainty. Standards are emerging but are by no means finalised. So there is no ‘royal road’ to smartness.” “However, there is a right way to travel,” Green elaborates. “With your eyes open, with realistic expectations, and with a willingness to learn from others. That includes other cities that might face the same problems as you, even if in a different context. It includes the suppliers, who may have learned from their experiences elsewhere, including in other verticals. It includes start-ups, who can be great innovators; and most of all, it includes the city’s own inhabitants, who are your real partners for the journey.”

SPECIAL FEATURE Systems Integration Asia December - January 2017

Smart Cities Closer Than You Think According To Philips Lighting

hilips Lighting, a global leader in lighting, has created a sneak preview of what urban life could be like in 2030, in a future-gazing virtual reality experience. At Smart Cities Expo World Congress in Barcelona in November 2016, Philips Lighting Research unveiled a picture of how connected lighting technology will play a key part in underpinning the smart cities we can expect to inhabit in just over a decade.

Urban populations are growing rapidly and 60 percent of the world population are predicted to be living in cities by 20301. Philips Lighting is helping to pave the way for massive urban growth by developing a people-centric blueprint for lighting and Internet of Things (IoT) services in the smart city of the future. In the first instalment of the ’2030: Smart city life’ virtual reality experience, the company shows how connected LED lighting has the potential to enhance quality of life, transform everyday experiences and services, and ensure sustainability in our ever expanding global cities. By 2030 it is expected that there will be close to 70 billion light points.2 Public lighting is installed everywhere: where people live, work, play and travel. Its primary function is to provide energy

efficient, quality light to enhance public safety and enhance the urban landscape. However, in the future a city’s lighting infrastructure will also offer enormous potential to be part of a city-wide network capable of acquiring data and delivering information and services to and from millions of devices, from garbage bins to autonomous vehicles. In this way it could help enable smart city services to improve the lives of its citizens and city managers alike. “The needs and aspirations of city dwellers have changed. They access information and navigate spaces in ways unimaginable 30-years ago and the rapid pace of change will see increasing demands on city governments,” said Kees van der Klauw, Senior Vice President, Philips Lighting Research. “Technology has a huge role to play in making cities more livable and delivering new services to its inhabitants. Through our connected lighting systems and services, Philips Lighting is already putting in place today many of the building blocks enabling the smart cities of tomorrow. And we see that citizens don’t want a technology imposed upon them, they want to have a say and be involved in defining the applications they need.”

SPECIAL FEATURE Systems Integration Asia December - January 2017

Philips Lighting’s look into the city of 2030 explores four scenarios which demonstrate how future lighting technology can deliver more sustainable, better-connected and more enjoyable cities. These are:

3. Sustainable City Farming Beneath the city and in unused spaces, urban farms that use little water and no pesticides, can grow plants and vegetables sustainably - reducing the distance between the farm and your fork, increasing food security, ensuring provenance and protecting precious natural resources.

1. Connected Streets Connected LED street lights provide highly energy efficient, quality light, but they are also sensor nodes on an information highway. In 2030 connected street lights could stream data between millions of devices. Connected lighting infrastructure collects and distributes data and improves city services such as light, traffic, air quality, public safety, parking and other location based services, leveraging state-of-the-art communication technologies. Autonomous vehicles navigate roads safely, using and communicating with sensors in street lights that scan the road and pavements, and provide a frame of reference by transmiting situational information to augment the vehicles’ on-board sensors. On 16 November 2016, Philips Lighting announced one of the world’s largest connected street lighting systems in Jakarta with Philips CityTouch monitoring and managing nearly 90,000 street lights.

2. Interactive Public Spaces

Scarcity of space will compel cities to extend public spaces underground, with a seamless transition made possible by lighting that mimics natural daylight and makes people feel comfortable. The digital lighting system can send positional data to help drones navigate and deliver items, while responsive light walls display art and foster citizen interaction and creativity. On 16 November 2016, Philips Lighting presented a new Philips Power over Ethernet (PoE) connected lighting system that transformed Madrid’s landmark office skyscraper Torre Europa into a smart office.

Since 2013, Philips Lighting collaborates with GrowUp Urban Farms that is a vertical urban farm established in an unused warehouse in East London’s industrial area. This is the first commercial aquaponic urban farm in the UK and produces 20,000 kilograms of fresh salads per annum with the help of Philips GreenPower LED lighting.

4. More Personalized Living In the home of 2030, lighting will be able to synchronize with everything from your door bell to your television and music and will befully adjustable to individual preferences. It will preempt your needs and complement your wellbeing, energize you, relax you and keep you safe. In November, Philips Lighting and Xiaomi joined forces to design and develop connected LED lighting products for Xiaomi’s smart home ecosystem in China. Jeff Cassis, Head of Government Business, Philips Lighting, explained: ”Sustainable urban growth must balance growing demands on resources, space and security while also making cities more liveable and enjoyable for everyday citizens. City managers will need to prioritize which changes are most important to their cities not only through concerns for cost, feasibility and timing, but also by listening to the current needs and wishes of citizens. ”The future of smart cities is the sum of many parts and success will require collaboration amongst companies large and small, governments, academia and above all, citizens. This is why today, we are calling on citizens and city managers across the world to join our conversation and explore the future together. The future starts now.” United Nations – Department of Economic and Social Affairs, ‘World Urbanization Prospects’, 2014

Philips Lighting estimate extrapolated from UN population and urbanization figures

www.philips.com

SPECIAL FEATURE Systems Integration Asia December - January 2017

AV Opportunities In Smart Cities by Thomas Richard Prakasam

When we talk about Smart Cities we need to also look into Internet of Things (IoT). They go hand in hand. It is therefore not surprising to learn that IoT is currently estimated to have a global market value of US$1.7 trillion. IoT infrastructures connected to super computers to provide information to create big data and analytics will be the cornerstone of Smart City initiatives. IoT systems will enable gathering of relevant information and making informed actions from the massive streams of real-time data. AV systems, fortunately, are already offering IoT solutions that form the backbone of IoT infrastructures. Efficiency has also become a cornerstone of what it means to be a Smart City. But as noted by Kenny Yeo from Frost & Sullivan, it is not the be all. It is also about two way communication, interaction and collaboration. AV systems are already in the cusp of Smart City solutions. Security without a doubt plays an important role in any city. We are now able to deploy cameras that are extremely sensitive to movements and low lights, cameras that can be remotely controlled, cameras that are plugged in to a larger control room, that enables border security, police and other relevant agencies to be more alert than ever. Of course it is not just security - transport, traffic, monitoring of sea lanes â&#x20AC;&#x201C; all need AV to work with IT to deliver a more efficient system. But that is not what makes a smart city. The gathering of the information plugged into a data system is what really makes it more valuable. What we now call Big Data. Smart Education is another area. Using Augmented Reality and Virtual reality for students to learn more effectively. Collaboration spaces that create a more encompassing

learning experience are also on the rise. These same technologies make sense in relation to creating a Smart Worker and even a Smart Office. Collaboration and interactivity across platforms and oceans have become a norm â&#x20AC;&#x201C; making companies more effective. Working with designers half way across the world through collaborative tools is not only productive but saves time and money just as what is offered through video conferencing tools, when it comes to meetings. Health sector is expected to gain much from smart city initiatives as well. Here again training future medical practioners with Virtual systems will be of benefit to the profession. Broadcasting operations to trainee doctors will enable them to experience real live operations. Enabling operations via long distance visual streaming could help save many lives. Two way communication with patient and doctor be it from their home or ward is also a way forward to better health management. There is no doubt that AV solutions are required for Smart Cities to work. Control systems, displays, digital signage, audio systems, video conferencing, room management systems, interactive systems, collaborative systems and the list goes on. What the AV industry however has to take note, are that these systems will now have to work with IT in a larger scale and even sensors and possibly actuators to realise the full potential of a Smart City. We will need smart integrators who know how to design systems that combine different technologies, protocols and components in a seamless manner to take advantage of the Smart City initiatives across the world.

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INTERVIEW Systems Integration Asia December - January 2017

A Chat With Owen Ellis, Chairman, AV User Group following years the company expanded and Owen got involved in different roles in the company from installation to sales, hire and conferences and ending up in the role of service manager. Owen states that he learnt a lot at his stint in the company. He then joined Electrosonic as a Senior Project Manager for Corporate and Retail Division where he serviced Morgan Stanley and 13 months later he joined the client. Today he has global responsibility for AV/Multimedia system implementation and maintenance.

SI Asia recently had the opportunity to catch up with Owen Ellis, Chairman of AV User Group to understand what the group is about and its value proposition. There is no denying that manufacturers are keen to tap on the group both in terms of understanding users needs as well as to share knowledge about their technology and solutions. Owen is a volunteer Chairman and juggles between his actual work at Morgan Stanley and steering the group with the help of a management committee.

he AV User Group saw its beginnings around 1996-1997, as a loose gathering of end-users from the finance sector. This came about through the efforts of Simon Dudley who was then based in London working for a manufacturer that sold solutions to banks. A request to Simon from one of the users as to how the others were using the solution brought about the initial meeting of seven banks. Due to non-disclosure agreements, Simon could not reveal how the solutions were being used but in his rounds with the banks he had suggested if they would like to meet informally and share thoughts and network and thus began the early seeding for the AV User Group. The banks felt that the informal gatherings were truly beneficial and decided to make it a fairly regular event to share thoughts on technology, trends and products. Simon continued to be the conduit for the gatherings for 8 years before he was poached by another manufacturer and had to move to the USA. Simon approached Mike McCarthy, a close friend, who was running his own marketing and consultancy firm to help to continue what he had started with the banks. Mike saw the opportunity for the supply chain to get involved and started a more formal approach to networking and sponsorship. The number of end-users grew and the AV User group was formally set-up.

â&#x20AC;&#x153;I joined Morgan Stanley around March 2000 within the Multimedia department. 4 years ago the multimedia department became part of the larger IT department that we internally refer to as Tech & Data. It was, if you think about it, in line with what was happening across the industry where AV and IT was merging. It made perfect sense. Efficiency improved across the board,â&#x20AC;? says Owen. Morgan Stanley has offices around the world but the fullyfledged Multimedia teams are only based in London, Hong Kong, Tokyo and New York. Currently, that team consists of 20 to 25 full-time staff and over 100 freelance staff.

Being Appointed AV User Group Chairman When I attended the meetings from 2002, I started to get more involved as we truly got so much more from the group. Near the last quarter of 2009 Mike McCarthy had been head hunted to join a manufacturer and he felt that it was important to keep to the spirit of the group and not have a manufacturer heading the group. He suggested that I take the lead. And at the last meeting in 2009, I was elected as Chairman of the Group. It was a big task as the group had grown significantly and I told the members that I would only take it up if we had a management committee in place and thankfully it was agreed upon. I officially became the Chairman in January 2010.

Who could be members? Our criteria is simple. To be a member, the person had to be a full time employee with an end-user being responsible for AV. Though we started off with Finance and it is still well represented in the group, we now have end-users from oil & gas, public sector, education, retail and corporate across UK. Word soon got around about the AV User Group and the value proposition that it brought about. Technology is moving at a fast pace and it is almost impossible to keep up with it. Our networking sessions allowed members to meet with peers, leverage from their experience and keep themselves up to date with the latest trends and technologies. Currently we have 420 individuals as members.

Owen Ellis, the current Chairman of the AV User Group started to attend the meetings around 2002 as part of being an enduser at Morgan Stanley. Owen had a background in AV prior to Morgan Stanley, working for Metro Video in 1984. Over the

Expansion Those outside United Kingdom, especially in America got wind of what we were doing and felt that they could benefit from

INTERVIEW Systems Integration Asia December - January 2017

such a group. Not surprisingly it was the finance companies that were keen to get it going and so in 2012 we started the AV user Group in New York. It of course helps that Morgan Stanley is strongly present in New York and I had to travel there as part of my work. New York has been growing steadily ever since and now we do 4 networking sessions in a year in London and in New York. This year saw us start the group in Hong Kong. I must admit that having the Morgan Stanley office in Hong Kong was a factor for us to start the group. My colleagues felt that it would be useful and beneficial for the end-users here. They have been great at getting the word around in Hong Kong. In our first networking gathering in April we had about 20 plus guests and the most recent event in October saw more than 35 guests attend the event, which is a significant increase. We hope to increase the number of networking events in Hong Kong to three next year and then to four in 2018 and of course grow the membership in Hong Kong.

Reaching Out Membership is only for end-users. It is a globalised world and the AV User Group provides a platform for end-users to mingle, network, learn and share. Membership is free and from my experience if you are open to it, you will get true value by being a member. Currently membership in Asia is open for end-users in Hong Kong. Visit www.avusergroup.com to become a member.

The Hong Kong Networking Event The second AV User Group networking event in Hong Kong was held on 14th October. It was divided into two parts. The first part which was open only to members and end-users, took place at the CLP Group office. About 35 plus attendees heard from Triple Play about delivering content to any network or display; Extron about 4K; Ian Harris from iHD who centered on display selection, sizing, contrast ratio and more and Sennheiser who gave a brief introduction about the importance of audio in corporate AV. There was active participation from the audience who were from Banks, Hotels, Government organisations and Education, throwing questions at the presenters. Owen also took to the floor to talk to attendees who generally wanted to know more about the AV User Group. The second part of event took place at the Regal Kowloon Hotel where there were drinks and food served in a more informal setting. Sponsors and industry personnel joined the event to mingle with the users. It was indeed a well attended event.

The Hong Kong Networking Event

INTERVIEW Systems Integration Asia December - January 2017

Journey to AV Excellence: Invest In Competence

Vangelis Petridis, Head-AV Solutions Dept, CGC

SI Asia: Upfront, congratulations on being honoured with the AV Provider of Excellence Designation. What does it mean to you (CGC)? VANGELIS: Thank you very much Ram. It means a lot on a professional as well as a personal level. It’s a recognition of many years of hard work that led us to stand out and certify the fact that we are following the best industry practices and deliver a higher value solution. Unfortunately, everybody still talks about cost but I prefer to talk about value, which you will find that is not always related to cost…

SI Asia: What special achievements do you think made CGC to be recognized with such an honour? VANGELIS: There are a few key points that have helped us. One, the high level technical competence of our team. I am happy and proud to say that today I am leading one of the most (if not the most) capable technical teams in the region. We hold over 100 different AV industry certifications, we come from different complementing backgrounds and invest heavily on the continuous education and further technical development of every single member. For example, you will find that all our document controllers and draftsmen are Recognized AV Technologists, because we like to speak the same “language,” all our engineers are CTS certified and so on and so forth. Second, upholding the highest technical AV standards and pushing them beyond to deliver real excellence. Where others see a problem we see only solution and an opportunity of providing a higher experience to our clients. Third, the commitment to our clients to deliver what they

Consolidated Gulf Co. (CGC), the reckonable, Doha-headquartered technology conglomerate recently added one more laurel to its credentials as- the first AV enterprise in the Middle East to receive the InfoComm International’s prestigious AV Provider of Excellence (APEx) designation. If this mark of distinction meant that CGC joined an elite group of 50 dedicated AV companies worldwide, talking to Vangelis Petridis – HeadAV Solutions Dept. at CGC – about the journey to excellence is nothing short of a revelation. Excerpts:

actually pay for and nothing less, which sadly is still in many cases not the usual practice of the market. Lastly, the passion that drives us and the attention to detail that allows us to deliver higher value solutions on time and within budget. I do like to believe that there is an important artistic parameter in what we do, that comes together with the engineering part, exactly because this industry and the multitude of available solutions allows us to do so and thus be creative, happy and fulfilled.

SI Asia: What value-add do you think it brings to brand CGC? VANGELIS: Without a doubt it is a unique selling point, as it allows CGC to stand out from the competition on a global platform. It allows us to participate in international tenders that require the specific or relevant pre-qualification prerequisites. It provides direct comfort to the minds of the clients that may have not interacted with us before. Furthermore, it acts as a morale booster for the team and the rest of the company also just as they feel the recognition of their work and you will not believe the number of CVs of really capable resources that I received that want to join our team having the APEx recognition as one of the distinct drives (comes second after the salary of course)…

SI Asia: What do you think it can mean to Qatari AV industry? VANGELIS: First of all, it will provide a clear distinction between the companies that are capable to deliver the highest AV standards that Qatar is looking for and deserves, and the rest of the SIs that may or may not be able to deliver the same. On a second level, it will alleviate the level of the end

INTERVIEW Systems Integration Asia December - January 2017

product of the companies that receive the APEx certification since following the predefined Infocomm standards will not allow you to deliver anything less than fully functional and fully successful systems. And of course, in the long run the rest of the companies that will not manage to reach to the APEx certified level will still have to upgrade their deliverables in order to stay afloat and somewhat competitive.

SI Asia: Tell us something about CGC AV- its genesis, evolution through the years, success stories and shortcomings… VANGELIS: The AV Solutions Department of CGC was created by public demand as a part of the full ELV portfolio that CGC has been serving for the best part of our 30-plus years of existence. In the last decade especially, the AV advancements and the demand of the Qatari market in respect to the latest high tech technology has allowed us to grow organically, and to be in a position today to have in-house resources that cater to every AV need from inception stage all the way to aftersales-maintenance contracts irrespective of the size. The success stories are too numerous to mention but some highlights would be the DECC (Doha Exhibition & Convention Center) in West Bay, the Al Sadd Stadium (Ali Bin Hamad Al-Attiyah Arena), numerous public sector HQs (MOI, Nakilat, Ras Gas, QAG) etc. The major shortcoming and continuous challenge is not to have managed still to “educate” our market on the value of things rather than the cost, which is not always interdependent.

SI Asia: What do you think is CGC’s biggest strength? How has it helped/contributed to the cause of Qatar’s AV industry? VANGELIS: Our strength is of course our technical competence and in-depth industry experience. As to the question whether it has helped Qatar’s AV industry, I know for a fact that every time we finish a meeting/workshop with a client/consultant, the level of technical awareness has been elevated and decisions are far more knowledgeable and optimised. Honestly it is an on-going and continuous effort but I believe one step every day we are getting there…

SI Asia: Despite being a comparatively smaller geography, Qatar has evolved to be the region’s third largest AV market- What makes it so? VANGELIS: The fact that overall Qatar remains to have one of the heavier construction activities in the region, which one way or another will have a portion of AV scope and, of course, the fact that the Qataris are interested to receive the highest possible technological solutions in the market and are willing to pay for it.

SI Asia: Qatar’s AV industry does suffer from certain challenges. What has been your approach? VANGELIS: I will agree with you on this point, and our approach on this is not far from what my grandfather used to say, “always go the other way from the current.” In this case,

when others are laying off people, we are investing in people, which is the real asset of our company. Not in armies of people, but in people who are unique and capable, who share the common teamwork and let’s-do-it attitude that are combined the driving force of our success.

SI Asia: What impact has the Qatari AV industry suffered due to the oil crisis? VANGELIS: Obviously Qatar didn’t remain unaffected from the global oil price drop but still the projects that have been put on hold or cancelled are not that many to create a real problem. Today’s real concern is the cash flow shortage that resulted in especially a number of MEP companies struggling for funds which in turn is impeding the whole market. On the other hand, the positive point is that we are seeing the interest of the market to be shifting from the limitless funds direction, to more value-for-money solutions which we welcome happily simply because it means the technical competence to design superior solutions within limited budgets becomes more prevalent, and this is something the CGC is very much equipped for.

SI Asia: Would you be able to quantify the impact of the crisis? VANGELIS: I doubt if anyone is in such a position but without any statistically based data, I would say that we may be looking at a 30 per cent less projects, a 20-30 per cent lower budgets in the existing projects, and 100 per cent more delays because of the cash flow challenges.

SI Asia: Where do you see CGC heading into the near future? VANGELIS: We believe in extreme specialization where the end client can reap the benefits and added value of our international grade expertise. As a result, having personally delivered more than 13 world-class stadiums in my career, I am focusing very actively in the race of the FIFA 2022 stadiums delivery that is not a “bet” that the country or the contractors want to leave it in the hands of inexperienced personnel that will “learn” in their back. This is a core CGC strength that we believe that the country need to, and will take advantage of.

SI Asia: Do you intend to expand to other markets in the Middle East or beyond? VANGELIS: We hope to, but with calculated steps that allows us to grow organically. To give you an example, we have been doing projects in Sri Lanka for some time but only recently opened our office and official operations there as a result of a Jumbo project being awarded to us and are currently looking into various other prospects. We do not believe that Rome was built in a day, but do believe that our specialized services are very much required in the region and steadily and properly organized we are providing them accordingly. www.cgulfc.com

INSTALLATIONS Systems Integration Asia December - January 2017

QATAR

QFIS – A Finesse Blend of Faith and Form An Iconic structure manifesting a mould of multiple design marvels

The iconic QFIS: Two large minarets extend out of one side of the structure, rising to 90m in the direction of Meccah

While the Education City campus – west of Qatari capital Doha – is an eclectic phenomenon in itself, for its grandeur of size and scale, the Faculty of Islamic Studies (FIS), with its integral mosque, is a unique model for many things, both in structure and texture. With a finesse blend of form and faith, the FIS, and the mosque make a distinct learning place- not only for the faithful but also the practitioners of technology design and deployment. SI Asia presents a perspective: The Qatar Faculty of Islamic Studies (QFIS), simply said, is an exemplary model of many things. Daringly unconventional in design exploitation, incredibly contemporary in structure, and profoundly spiritual in theme in that it imparts Islamic values and education in a very progressive setting even as it leverages aural and visual technologies in an ingenious fashion. The narrative of the whole entity draws attention to the comparative forms of ‘knowledge and light’, which manifest through the spiral detailing of the building. A multitude of pathways bind faculty and teaching space (knowledge) to the ambience of the mosque (light), incorporating the ethereal qualities of Islamic space – the use of light, reverberation of prayer, use of calligraphy, geometry and ornamentation.

An architectural marvel that it is, the QFIS has too many features to talk about: • The scheme fits into the low carbon campus-wide LEED sustainability strategy • It covers an area of nearly three hectares and fuses cuttingedge design with sustainable practice • It comprises two basement levels and five floors offering classrooms, faculty offices, exhibition space, an auditorium, and a distinctly designed mosque, besides four water streams and gardens • The teaching area alone comprises as many as 54 classrooms and seminar rooms, language labs, conference rooms • Islamic calligraphy is at the heart of the building, inscribed on almost every surface including roofs, corridor walls and windows • The mosque can accommodate 2,000 people in its indoor prayer halls and outdoor courtyard. The courtyards temper light and reduce heat gain • Five mushroom shaped pillars – symbolizing the five pillars of Islam – hold large post-tensioned beams that support the mosque, along with its outer courtyard • Two large minarets extend out of one side of the structure, rising to 90m in the direction of Meccah • Four water streams flow through the building’s exterior and interior, inspired by the rivers of paradise as described in the Holy Qur’an

INSTALLATIONS Systems Integration Asia December - January 2017

The Scheme Designed by UK/Spain-based architects Mangera Yvars Architects Ltd, and RHWL Architects, the QFIS scheme explores the relationship of ‘Knowledge and Light’ where the Holy Qur’an emphasizes the importance (treading the path) of knowledge in order to attain enlightenment. The scheme is thus organized in plan as a spiral arrangement of teaching rooms and faculty offices which lead eventually to the characteristic Mosque. The scheme, as approved by the Qatar Foundation and its patron HH Sheikh Moza, embodies the value systems of Islam appropriate for the modern age. It has, as its constituent part, four Islamic gardens around the perimeter of the building and a calligraphic courtyard in the centre. Classrooms and external elevations are provided with a ribbon of calligraphy which ‘binds’ various elements of the building through Qur’anic verses. “QFIS provides for a progressive learning environment, which places Qatar at the forefront of contemporary Islamic discourse, through the provision of modern Islamic architecture,” explains Jonathan Tulip, Audio-Visual Design Specialist with ASTAD Project Management, the Doha-based PMC was contracted by the QFIS for project and construction management.

According to him, the QFIS scheme was developed by reworking the historical Kulliyya, or ‘place where all knowledge is sought.’ The design incorporates the achievements of Islam, Islamic art, architecture and science. The purposely crafted calligraphy runs from the mihrab (the point closest to Meccah, towards which the congregation faces to pray) and throughout the entire building, representing the knowledge derived from Islam. The themed garden is based on an interpretation of Jannah, or ‘paradise’ with its four rivers of wine, milk, honey and water. While the narrative, and the visual build-up of light leads students and visitors from learning spaces to the main hall and mosque area, the calligraphy and verses from the Holy Qur’an strengthens the continuous thread from mosque to faculty, and externally into the landscaped Islamic gardens. “A key requirement of QFIS is to make the teaching of Islam accessible while acknowledging and referring to the great learning establishments of Islamic civilization,” explains Tulip. “In doing so, the building places at its core Arabic and Islamic culture and value systems, which underpin the modern day Qatar.”

The Design Inside (The Mosque) The Mosque itself is characterised by the voluminous interior of large concave surfaces and sweeping curves of polished Unique microphone configuration to pickup Imam's vocal in four stages

Calligraphy on the ceiling

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plaster and intricate fretwork detail. Visually outstanding and acoustically impressive, the features, which make the space quite remarkable, also create some equally impressive challenges for acoustic and sound engineering. The audible beauty of the space is created by complex and often long and crystal clear reflections with long reverb times whilst creating a wonderful acoustic soundscape- in a hugely difficult environment for speech reinforcement and recitals. The challenge for audio designers was to create a sound system with zero visual impact, and capable of delivering excellent speech intelligibility whilst preserving the inherent character of the acoustic space. Not a small challenge, in deed. Electroacoustic models of the space were used to develop a range of solutions each delivering a different balance between the acoustic environment and the spoken word. In order to achieve an intelligible ambience the interior surfaces were treated with acoustically absorptive materials that included deep carpeting on the side curved walls, high rear wall curves and central ceiling curves. A balance between acoustics and design aesthetics was achieved by employing micro pore stretched fabric following closely the contour of the curves whilst providing a similar sheen and appearance to polished plaster at a typical viewing distance. The micro perforations of the fabric allow sound to be absorbed by the mineral wool insulation behind. This technique was restricted to the side walls allowing the ceiling surfaces to retain both the Arabic Calligraphy reliefs and the shafts of direct sunlight which pass through the ceiling fretwork. The other part of the equation was now to implement an electroacoustic design that could intelligibly deliver the speech of the Imam to the roughly 800 faithful who would gather. Two steerable column Line Arrays built into the curved front walls and fronted with acoustically transparent covers finished into the plaster work provide the main coverage, with the beams directed down into the carpeted floor to provide maximum absorption of the 1st reflection, and allow the longest available path before a second reflection. More, the location of the minbar (pulpit) and prayer microphones in front of the mihrab are both prone to long clean reflections making concentration difficult while the speech is on. As these locations are outside of the direct field

The classroom

coverage for the main line arrays, near field monitoring was introduced at low volume levels to provide direct field sound for the Imam and overcome the disconcerting effect of the long and late reflections. Interestingly, each square meter of the mosque has its own unique sound changing as one walks through the space, and this also leads to quite surprising effects such as the whispering gallery created by the Women’s prayer balcony where wisps of speech can be carried right around the curvature of the ceiling from one side of the mosque to the other. Predictably, sufficient gain before feedback is difficult to achieve with all microphones being both in front of the loudspeakers and subject to a myriad of reflections. For the minbar various manufacturers’ models of gooseneck microphone were compared, and, after thorough testing, a miniature shot gun microphone was selected for its ability to provide an additional 6dB of gain before feedback. A little bit of precision parametric EQ for each microphone created a touch more headroom and smoothed out the response. Overall EQ was applied in the system processor to flatten both room and system frequency response. For prayers spoken in front of the mihrab, an interesting microphone configuration was required allowing the Imam to bend from standing in four stages whilst maintaining pick-up. That things like head-worn microphones and in-ear monitors are not preferred, again miniature shotgun microphones were employed. The final effect is quite remarkable somewhat ‘akin to car headlights in fog or shafts of sunlight through low clouds,’ comments Jonathan. The speech reinforcement is clear and crisp with a strong direct field surrounded by complex reflections of the acoustic space which create seemingly a cloud of spacious and voluminous reflections. “It is truly an exceptional soundscape, which the measurements cannot fully describe,” he says even as he details the figures: STI 0.63; SPL 70dB; Uniformity +/- 2dB; and the RT60 at 2.5 sec.

The miniature shot gun microphone was selected for its ability to provide an additional 6dB of gain before feedback

“The low STI of the Mosque interiors actually rendered the conventional means of Voice Alarm,” he explains. “It was,

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therefore, necessary to integrate the Voice Alarm with the mosque system and deliver a NFPA-compliant life safety solution.” There is a very high level of physical integration and attention to detail within QFIS, ranging from fairly standard ceiling recessed screens and forward facing flush ceiling speakers for programme sound, the ASTAD Exec goes on to elaborate. The entire equipment racks are concealed- installed hidden in millwork. Speakers for the ladies balcony are installed invisibly in the balustrade fretwork and monitor speakers for the Imam installed flush and seamlessly into the polished plaster work.

AV at the Teaching, Conference Spaces Noticeably, while the Mosque doesn’t have any video element, with all its characteristics being in audio environment, the faculty, and the conferencing area as well as the auditorium spaces are equipped with full scale, sophisticated audio and visual/conferencing systems. The audio component comprised ceiling speakers from Bower & Wilkins; wireless microphones from Sennheiser; conference microphones from Revolabs; DSPs from Biamp; amplifiers and Matrices from Extron. The video component comprised projectors from Christie; projection screens from Draper; flat panel displays from NEC; video-conferencing system codecs from Polycom and VC camera systems from Panasonic; lecture capture systems from Epiphan, and control automation touch panels from AMX. “Projectors for the video mapped art work are ceiling mounted in recesses such that they do not protrude below the ceiling line,” explains Jonathan. “There is quite a large-scale audiovisual system set-up in the faculty area, with projection/display screens, video conferencing, and digital signage provisions. They are all standard university level systems, customized to meet the requirements of the FIS.” “The best part of the installation is that it gets used and used frequently,” sums up the ASTAD AV Design Specialist. “Too often, we see systems specified that do not meet the end users’ operational requirements or are opaque to operate such that the end user is disinclined to use an awkward or poorly thought out system. That’s the case here.”

The AV Set-up Teaching - Audio Visual Systems: • Ceiling Speakers – Bower & Wilkins • Amplifiers – Extron • DSP - Biamp • Matrices – Extron • Projectors – Christie Digital • Projection Screens – Draper • Flat Panel Displays – NEC • VC Codecs – Polycom

• VC Cameras – Panasonic • Lecture Capture – Epiphan • Wireless Microphones – Sennheiser • Conference Microphones – Revolabs • Touch Panels - AMX • Power Distribution – Furman Mosque Audio: • Acoustic Treatment - Barrisol MIcro Acoustic stretch fabric • Line array loudspeakers – Meyersound CAL • Monitor & Balcony speakers Meyersound MM4 • Exterior Speakers JBL/Duran Audio • Speaker Drive Processor – Meyersound Callisto • DSP – Biamp AudiaFlex • Gooseneck Microphones – AKG C747

PROJECT FACTFILE Project Name: Qatar Faculty of Islamic Studies Project Location: Education City Campus, Doha Project Owner: Qatar Foundation for Education, Science and Community Development Project Segment: Worship/Spiritual Learning Project type: Audio-visual set-up in Mosque (Prayer Areas), Classrooms, Auditorium, Faculty areas, and Exhibition Space Design Architects: Mangera Yvars Architects Ltd Executive Architects: RHWL Architects Acoustic Design: Károly Molnár & Andor Fürjes Project & Construction Management: ASTAD Project Management Audio Visual Specialist: Jonathan Tulip, ASTAD System Integrator (Mosque Sound): Animative Gross Area: 28,000 sqm Project Commenced: 2011 Project Commissioned: March 2015 Audio Visual Engineer – Maricel Cruz, ASTAD DSP configuration – Dan Doctor

Awards for the QFIS Shortlisted for International Architecture Award 2016 RIBA International Architecture Awards, 2016 National Winner of Social Infrastructure Project of the Year MEED Quality Awards, 2015 GCC Winner for Quality Project of the Year MEED Quality Awards, 2015 GCC Winner for Social Infrastructure Project of the Year MEED Quality Awards, 2015

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The QFIS Challenges: Astutely Addressed by ASTAD The Mosque

ASTAD Project Management – the Dohabased renowned PMC – provided full project and construction management services for the iconic QFIS project. It acted as the focal point between the Client, the designer, the lead architect, the End User, several government entities and the main contractor. The agency’s role in the entire project’s execution has Jonathan Tulip, been very crucial and commendable Audio-Visual Design in that it ensured that the project was Specialist at ASTAD completed on time and budget- despite the design evolved, and the essentials chosen for the same posed practically monumental challenges. Jonathan Tulip, Audio-Visual Design Specialist at ASTAD, who stayed at the centre of all that action through execution explains what all it meant. Safety: Safety across the site was a key challenge given the scale, complexity and unique nature of the structures and construction methods. With ASTAD’s highly experienced health and safety team enforcing a strict adherence to HS&E guidelines, they achieved a perfect safety record clocking over 25 million man hours with no lost time injuries (LTI). Mosque Roof Design: The mosque roof design was extremely complex with multiple skin levels and openings which had not been attempted before. A cantilevered scaffold grid system was designed to provide an access platform for workers and materials to reach all the curved areas of the mosque dome. The mosque’s internal envelop and the skeleton mesh were designed, CNC machined, assembled and installed with the aid of BIM. We used a 3D scan to check the construction progress against the design. The roof was created in 400 sections with plywood formwork, cast in gypsum and placed individually on the roof to form the actual internal mosque ceiling.

Construction of Minarets: This presented a huge challenge to ensure stability and long life span of the structure. They required a unique 85m high self-supporting scaffold (the third largest in the world) and strict health and safety guidelines for working at the top of the scaffold. Each minaret is connected to the base by a huge viscous damper to absorb the wind load. The dampers were tested in a specialized lab in Germany and will allow the structure to have a longer life span. Calligraphy: The calligraphy in the main courtyard required a technical solution to eliminate shadows from the Qur’anic verse inside the building which could be walked over. To resolve this, a fritting pattern was created for a screening system on the inside of the glass to diffuse the shadows. Complex façade treatments: The zig zag GRC and glass panels on the façade required an innovative custom made aluminum beam solution. ASTAD teams worked closely with the specialized subcontractor to design a custom aluminum cast to create flexibility while executing those zig zag shaped beams. All the façade treatments were custom to this project and required extensive testing. We conducted water and wind pressure testing on samples of all façade treatments to ensure suitability for conditions and that there were no failures. Coordination and sequencing: Coordinating the shop drawings and scaffolding design was critical so that all activities were performed in the correct sequence. We used BIM to produce the shop drawings and this allowed us to detect and resolve clashes at early stages. BIM also assisted in reducing uncertainty, improving safety and minimizing waste. Approvals process: The approvals process was a major milestone to ensure smooth delivery to the end user. We managed this through careful consultation with all stakeholders throughout the whole project and achieved approval on the first attempt. www.astad.qa

INSTALLATIONS Systems Integration Asia December - January 2017

ABU DHABI

ICT@Rabdan: The Backbone For Security Training Visionaire Executes One-of-its-kind Mega ICT Project In Abu Dhabi

By Ram Bhavanashi

Rabdan Academy – a futuristic initiative of Government of Abu Dhabi – simply said, is a phenomenal institution of its own kind. A multi-disciplinary professional training institution on policing, defence, and security crisis management, the Academy has deployed a massive scale of information and communication technology infrastructure as an essential backbone of its training methodology. Dubai-based ICT major Visionaire had the honour executing the prestigious project.

he very genesis of Rabdan Academy is the Abu Dhabi Government’s vision to establish a world-class, technologically well-equipped training environment to train security professionals to meet the challenges and threats faced worldwide by nations and communities today and into the future. The vision and objective was to create a best-in-class facility that supports the vision of the United Arab Emirates to reach and maintain a professional and effective preparedness and crisis response capability.

students and partners physically and virtually work together inside and outside various types of spaces and locations, anytime and anywhere. This called for a technology partner whose expertise is characterized by experience, technology and ingenuity competence- an expertise that would have to shape, steer and guide the Academy by means of ICT on the path to achieving its grand ambition.

Critical to this mission was the integration and coordination of multi-disciplinary education and training capabilities that leverage technology to its best.

An important part of the client brief was to enable the Academy to be fully compliant with all relevant objectives of the Plan Abu Dhabi 2030 (AD 2030) and Economic Vision including the Emiratisation, environmental and business operating considerations.

That was to pursue effective ways for enhanced learning spaces to better facilitate human collaboration during faceto-face and distance interaction by providing a secure, standards-based, high-quality converged voice, video and data communication and collaboration system. The technology architecture was to leverage the benefits of various web, audio-visual and data technologies into a single, cohesive and intuitive immersive collaborative next generation experience. Powered by such a technology-collaboration, Rabdan expects to dramatically improve the way its faculty, researchers,

It was indeed a prestigious task for Visionaire.

As designed and built, the ICT infrastructure at Rabdan scales from a single desktop to a large auditorium, multiple numbers of classrooms, meeting rooms, board rooms, briefing rooms, cafés and dining facilities, and other common spaces that continuously evolve with new and emerging technologies, product roadmaps and business change.

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Expansive, as the campus is, the scope of ICT install comprised: • Thirty four classrooms • Three classrooms with Video Conferencing • Three classrooms with Lecture Capture system • Four 17-seater meeting rooms • Two 17-seater Boardrooms • One 120-seater Auditorium • Digital signage system in public areas • Network Operations Centre According to Visionaire, the ICT deployment at Rabdan marks the success of the integrated future of AV+IT. This project apparently proves the viability of such a complex design and integration to work at scalable and large enterprise / academy deployment levels and creates an example for many others to follow. Qualifying for such a status of the project are several aspects of unique nature: Ubiquity of video, voice and content: Every single venue and user are enabled with provision of UC&C ubiquity comprising diverse audio-visual systems, voice, video, whiteboard and content collaboration, facilitating connections with internal and external participants anytime, anywhere. Microsoft Lync (Skype for Business) integrated with Arrive all-in-one appliance platforms and Polycom HD Video is delivered to Samsung Video Walls, Sharp Interactive Displays, Smart Boards and short-throw projectors- for an immersive and collaborative automated system. The UC&C system is based on Microsoft Skype-for-Business with an on-premise installation integrated with Microsoft Exchange and a full VoIP back-end system using Polycom handsets. The front-end Video Collaboration is managed via Arrive’s leading edge FacePoint Unified collaboration and control systems using the Skype-forBusiness soft client. Wired and Wireless BYOD: An architecture of universal wireless connectivity for Android, Apple and Windows devices, integrated with wired HDMI, DisplayPort and VGA, is laid, allowing the faculty to connect any external device of

user’s choice (build-your-own-device- BYOD) with automatic source switching to connected displays in all venues. The content is delivered in a matrix of highly secure Aruba wireless infrastructure. Smart centre management: Users are provisioned with a smart access to pervasive technology that seamlessly blends the virtual with the physical using VMWare. Arrive OnePoint Smart Centre platform connects each venue to the network. Room scheduling, user interface design, configuration and deployment are achieved instantly without any in-room labour. ControlPoint Universal Touch Panel provides users with the ability to interact with Room Control, Apps Launcher, Content Repositories, Virtual PC, Keyboard and Mouse. Crestron control processors are managed from the same universal touch panel to provide automation and seamless execution. Access to content, Apps, Room Control in all classrooms: Quite characteristically, every single teaching/learning space on the campus is connected to the Rabdan Academy Network for delivery of centralized applications including MS Office via the Arrive ControlPoint touch control console. Further qualifying the connectivity are the teachers’ desks that are fitted with a cable management hub that is in-turn inbuilt VGA, HDMI, USB charging, auto switch, power access, and display scaling- all of which allow the faculty to connect any external electronic or AV device to the system with automatic source switching. Room Reservation integrated with Automation: The Academy Timetable is seamlessly integrated with the Room Reservation System which can also be used to broadcast information that can include emergency notifications. Standardized User Interfaces: All the User Interfaces connecting the faculty members and the trainees with the pervasive technology are standardized for a high-quality uniform technology experience. Each teaching venue is equipped with a touch screen console that allows for access to room control, learning tools, content access, and apps, providing faculty a uniform experience across various types of teaching venues. Each classroom is equipped with Interactive White Board with integrated short throw projector, document cameras, and audio system.

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Digital Signage System: Simply said, this across-the-campus feature provides faculty, students and visitors an effective medium for information broadcasts as well as navigational routing on the Academy. Green ICT: An important aspect of the ICT deployment on the Academy is its inherently ‘go-green’ nature. The technology infrastructure is built on leading edge integration specialization to provide a highly energy-efficient (and network-managed) platform for all the services using a common wired and wireless network backbone. This ‘go-green’ design philosophy as well as the all-in-one software managed collaboration resulted in significant reduction of use of physical wiring as well as rack space- as much as 42 per cent conservation of wiring and 58 per cent of rack space has been saved in this project design compared to the traditional IDF-MDF and Data Centre layouts using a twotier network design. On the Cloud: Another unique feature of the technology architecture and network infrastructure deployed at Rabdan Academy is it also supports Cloud Virtual Desktop (VDI) solution. It has since been able to help create seamless integration of learning applications, besides help reduce IT maintenance costs. The Data Centre hardware has dynamic energy-saving features and power management, rapid provisioning, and an efficient cooling system that reduces power consumption, thereby allow higher densities and more capacity at less cost. Further, the ICT deployment is also characterized by:

More, use of integrated all-in-one appliances have significantly reduced the need for independent video codec, wireless presenter, PCs, control processors and lecture capture device hardware in the classrooms. That was a unique optimization of technology availability reflecting the expertise and competence of the integrator. With the deployment of this fully integrated ICT infrastructure at the Rabdan Academy, both the faculty and students, besides the staff have been able to enjoy faster connectivity, and a streamlined secure access to the Academy’s education tools. According to Visionaire, the prideful SI on the mega project, the ICT@Rabdan is not only a modern learning solution that is able to provide learning and productivity tools, but also a highly secure network environment that is agile and holistic. “Rabdan Academy is a believer in excellence in education through technology with a mission to drive future-class student learning experiences through innovation” Khamis Awadh Abulani, ICT advisor for Rabdan Academy said, commending Visionaire’s work on the project. “We are therefore pleased to have worked with Visionaire to create new ways of enhancing learning at our new Excellence Learning Center in Abu Dhabi, with the introduction of its leading ICT and network solutions.” www.visionaire.com www.ra.ac.ae

PROJECT FACTFILE Project Name: Rabdan Academy

• Minimalized cabling with use of integrated cable hubs and wireless connectivity • PoE Room Scheduling devices • PoE Room Control Devices • Energy-efficient displays • Centralized control of AV for monitoring and management

Project Location: Abu Dhabi Project Owner: Government of Abu Dhabi Project Segment: Education/Professional Security Training Project Type: Campus-wide laying of ICT infrastructure involving high-end AV systems Project Management Consultant: Visionaire Systems Integrator: Visionaire

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The ICT Spec Expanse@Rabdan AUDITORIUM

CLASSROOMS:

Audio:

Audio: Ceiling Array Microphone Kit: ClearOne Ceiling Microphone Controller: Servoreeler Ceiling speakers, Digital Amplifier: Arrive SoundPoint Digital Audio Processor: Biamp Active Wall mounted stereo speakers: SMART Technologies

Speakers-front, LA, stage monitors, full range, processors: Bose Power amplifiers: QSC Mixers: SoundCraft DSP Main Frame, Input cards, Echo canceller: Biamp Microphones- Lavaliere, Handheld wireless, podium: Shure Video: Motorized screens: Draper Video Projectors and Long throw zoom lens: Christie Blue Ray players: LG Interactive podium screens: SMART Technologies Video Wall: Samsung All-in-One Appliance - Collaboration Processor with HDMI capture, USB switching, serial control and Universal Wireless BYOD: Arrive FacePoint Lecture Capture System: Lecture Recording Appliance and Software; PTZ HD Cameras; Audio-Video format converter: Arrive ViewPoint Video Conference System: HD Video conference system: Polycom PTZ HD Cameras: Arrive Systems PCs: Lenovo HDMI Matrix Switcher: Gefen HDMI Tx/Rx: Arrive Systems LED Monitors: ViewSonic HD Video conference system: Polycom Control System: Control system processor; Wall-mounted Wireless Touch Screen: Crestron Lighting Control System: Dimmer Module, keypad, Terminal block: Crestron DIGITAL SIGNAGE (Common Areas) Digital signage player-HD; Signage Content Management Systems: Cayin Technologies LED Video Monitors: Sharp

Room Scheduling and Management: Arrive InfoPoint Video & Control System: Interactive whiteboard with short throw projector: SMART Technologies Document Camera: Lumens Cable and connectivity management; switcher; USB 3.0 PTZ Camera; PoE Wired Universal Touch Panels with control software; All-in-One Appliance - Collaboration Processor with HDMI capture, USB switching, serial control and Universal Wireless BYOD; Lecture Recording Appliance and software; HD PTZ Camera; HDMI Tx/RX: Arrive FacePoint and Arrive ControlPoint system LED Monitors: ViewSonic MEETING AND BOARD ROOMS Audio: Ceiling spekers; Digital amplifier: Arrive SoundPoint Digital Audio Processor: Biamp Cardioid Condenser Microphone: Audio Technica Room Scheduling and Management: Arrive InfoPoint Video & Control System: Interactive Displays: Sharp HDVideo conference system including camera: Polycom All-in-One Integrated Room Appliance with Universal Wireless BYOD and Control; PoE Wired Universal Touch Panels with control software; Cable and connectivity management; switcher; HD Base-T Tx/Rx, switcher, HDMI Audio de-embedder: Arrive FacePoint ACADEMY INTEGRATED I.T. INFRASTRUCTURE Wireless Infrastructure: Aruba Voice, Video and Unified Communication and Collaboration Platform: Microsoft Lync (Skype for Business) Server Virtualization: VMWare IP Phones, Video Conference MCU: Polycom

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KUWAIT

Kuwait College of Science & Technology Auditorium Features Renkus-Heinz ICONYX Systems integrator Bader al Mulla chose Renkus-Heinz solutions for what has now been described as the "perfect installation."

he Kuwait College of Science & Technology (KCST) is a one-of-a-kind private university in Kuwait City, where impeccable standards of learning have now been matched by arguably the best auditorium in the country. As part of a comprehensive three year project in which only the highest standards were deemed acceptable, regional systems integrator Bader al Mulla chose Renkus-Heinz solutions for what has now been described as the "perfect installation." Comprising a 525-seat auditorium and two 215-seat lecture halls, the KCST project began in March of 2014 and was perhaps more personal than most for Bader al Mulla. A leader in its field, the company shows its allegiance to the region by supporting the college with its considerable expertise. As a result, when AV Engineer Manohar Sharma was tasked with designing the college's audio systems, he knew the end-result had to be good. What he didn't know was that he was setting out on a journey to create "one of the best audio installations I have seen in my life." "I was involved in the audio-visual design for the entire KCST complex, the heart of which is the auditorium, with the two

lecture theatres," he explains. "The technology is excellent throughout - Christie projectors, Extron and Crestron switching control, and of course Renkus-Heinz loudspeakers. But what was remarkable from the beginning was the quality of the room itself - the room acoustics. It has been so well designed and constructed that it has a measured STI of 0.77." Renkus-Heinz Sales Manager for the Middle East, Norbert Bau, who participated in the commissioning of the system, picks up the story: "The whole installation is basically perfect," he explains. "The auditorium in particular is a wonderful space in which they've worked incredibly hard to achieve an optimum acoustic environment. The average STI of 0.77 is amazing, and the room actually sounds like a studio - the sound is always very close to your ear." "I have worked on auditoriums and theatres before," adds Sharma, "but this one was special." Given such impressive conditions in which to work, Sharma and his colleagues from Bader al Mulla set about crafting an audio solution without the usual restraints of in-room problems. Their

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work was made all the more important by the auditorium's own high profile. "There are very few auditoriums here in Kuwait," he explains. "There are some but they are not so big, and we have seen other rooms with systems that are not intelligible. So we wanted to deliver a very high quality and future-proofed solution." The choice of Renkus-Heinz may be considered surprising considering the brand's reputation for using its beam steering expertise to rescue problem rooms. But for Sharma, there was no other alternative worth considering. "We have some experience with other brands but we know from previous projects that Renkus-Heinz is very supportive, and that we could relax in the knowledge that they would come on-board and support us by certifying the commissioning and doing the fine tuning." Nor were the beam steering capabilities of the system wasted in the room, as Bader al Mulla deployed them to ensure absolutely even coverage to every seat. "Beam steering is still applied because the auditorium is quite wide, around 65 feet (20m), and about 100 feet (30m) deep. With left and right arrays serving such a deep auditorium, we needed to direct the beams to achieve optimum coverage across the audience area, which we have." Providing that coverage in the auditorium are two Iconyx ICLFR Dual arrays mounted at the far left and right of the stage, with low-frequency support from two PN 212 SUBR subwoofers installed into the front of the stage. This core system is used for speech reinforcement, delivering all-important intelligibility for students and visiting dignitaries alike. Meanwhile, for more ambitious productions, a surround sound system has been installed comprising five PN61R enclosures as front-fills and a further 10 PN61R loudspeakers positioned at the left, right and rear of the audience. Completing the auditorium system are two-way CF61 enclosures used as monitors within the control room, and four PN121M conic loudspeaker systems that are used for on-stage monitoring.

"By using beam steering we achieved really smooth coverage across the entire audience," says Bau. "When we finished the commissioning we asked the General Manager to come and listen and he was really surprised. The final result was very good. It proves that with Renkus-Heinz beam steering you can achieve results beyond the usual." Though smaller, the two lecture halls were treated with the same level of care and attention. Both have been outfitted with matching systems, comprising two Iconyx ICL-FR Singles, again mounted at the extreme left and right of the stage, supported by a single, central PN212SUBR subwoofer and three PN61R enclosures as front-fills. Two CF61 speakers serve as control room monitors. "Even in the lecture halls, they have a worldclass system," confirms Bau. He continues, "For me, this whole project was very special because of the level of technical skill and the commitment to the work that has been done. KCST had the determination to create a truly excellent solution, and Bader al Mulla had the ability to get the job done properly. We supported them with as much information and assistance as we could and the end result is fantastic." "This is definitely a reference project for us with RenkusHeinz," confirms Sharma, who now looks back on the creation of the system as a highlight of his career to date. "It is a matter of pride that we have successfully completed such an important solution." www.renkus-heinz.com

PROJECT FACTFILE Client: Kuwait College of Science & Technology Segment: Education Location: Kuwait System Integrator: Bader al Mulla Task: To design an intelligible audio system for auditorium and two lecture halls. Solution Highlight: Renkus-Heinz ICONYX

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NEW ZEALAND

Auckland’s Britomart Transport Centre Tower Features 21st Century Digital Advertising NanoLumens teams up with QMS Media and Digital Place Solutions to create an engaging LED visualization solution

uckland’s architecturally significant Britomart Transport Centre now features NanoLumens solutions demonstrating the company’s ability to extend the performance capabilities of LED visualization solutions as an engaging, immersive, and revenue-generating platform in architecturally-sensitive environments. According to NanoLumens Vice President of Strategic Accounts Almir DeCarvalho, the installation is the result of a remarkable collaboration between NanoLumens, QMS Media, a leading outdoor media company in Australia and New Zealand, and Digital Place Solutions (DPS), a leading Australian digital display and place based media consultancy. “Taking on a project like this isn’t for the faint of heart,” emphasized NanoLumens Vice President of Strategic Accounts Almir DeCarvalho. “It takes a unique combination of design and engineering creativity, superior display technology, and a client willing to embrace new thinking to produce a next-

generation advertising solution that benefits everyone involved — the transportation authority, the media company, and the marketers who will be empowered to target hard-to-reach daily rail commuters. All three elements came together perfectly on this project and the result speaks for itself! Together, we created a dramatic 21st Century digital advertising platform within the architecturally significant Britomart Transportation Centre — and we did it without interfering at all with the iconic architecture of the hub.” The new ‘Britomart Towers,’ as they are called, are a galvanizing pair of premium digital displays that are prominently situated in the busy transportation hub that combines a bus interchange with a railway station in a former Edwardian post office that has been extended with expansive post-modernist architectural elements. “The ‘Britomart Towers’ are positioned on either side of the station’s main commuter escalators,” explained Digital Place

INSTALLATIONS Systems Integration Asia December - January 2017

Solutions Director Stephen Rubie. DPS is NanoLumens’s distribution partner in the region. “The sheer size and scale of these landmark displays ensure maximum impact and exposure to the large volumes of foot traffic moving throughout the station and provides visibility from all commuter platforms.” QMS Media New Zealand CEO Wayne Chapman noted that, “More than 35,000 passengers pass through Britomart Station on any given work day, a solid 20% increase over the last year. This passenger growth is only set to continue with the development of the new City Rail Link that will connect through the station. The ‘Britomart Towers’ offer advertisers the impact and flexibility of digital outdoor, with the ability to target a previously hard-to-reach busy rail commuter,” Chapman explained. “We are proud to be able to bring our experience in delivering premium landmark digital billboards to the rail audience network.” The Britomart Station towers are comprised of two 6mm NanoSlim portrait-sized displays that are mounted directly to elevator shafts on either side of the main platform exits from the subway. Measuring 2.7m (W) x 4.8m (H), the displays provide a dominant media opportunity to impact 100% of the passengers exiting the busiest metro station in New Zealand. What’s more, the high-resolution displays are configured to provide synchronized content that double the advertising impact within the heavily trafficked commuter environment. To achieve the desired end-result, QMS Media, DPS and NanoLumens worked collaboratively to meet and exceed the requirements of Auckland Transport for this project. With the deployment being in an underground railway station environment, NanoLumens was required to provide very specific product certification data for the display technology, including power consumption and fire ratings, to ensure that

the displays didn’t adversely impact the environment. Having met all of Auckland Transport’s technology requirements, the deployment schedule was also of critical importance. “Being an active transport hub, the production, delivery and installation schedule needed to be spot on to minimize any potential disruption to passenger movement,” Rubie emphasized. Working with the existing design of Britomart Station was a key requirement of the project. The station is world class with architectural wall coverings and stainless steel highlights. The low profile and light weight of the NanoLumens displays supported the design of the environment, providing a minimal impact physical structure that delivers reliable, bright and high resolution images for commercial advertising. “These advertising towers now provide some of the best advertising opportunities in New Zealand. Digital Place Solutions and NanoLumens are proud to be a part of this exciting project and we look forward to further projects with QMS Media and Auckland Transport,” Rubie concluded. www.qmsmedia.com www.digitalplacesolutions.com www.NanoLumens.com

PROJECT FACTFILE Client: Auckland’s Britomart Transport Centre Segment: Transport Location: Auckland, New Zealand System Integrator: QMS Media, Digital Place Solutions and Nanolumens Task: To design an advertising generating LED Display solution whilst maintaining the architectural integrity of the transport centre Solution Highlight: NanoSlim portrait displays

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INSTALLATIONS Systems Integration Asia December - January 2017

HONG KONG

Chinese University Of Hong Kong Bolsters Sound With Shure Microflex Wireless System Installed by EduServe, the Microflex Wireless elegantly fits into the room’s existing sound structure PROJECT FACTFILE Client: Chinese University of Hong Kong Segment: Education Location: Hong Kong System Integrator: EduServe Task: To design a solid acoustic environment and interference-free system for the conference room Solution Highlight: Shure Conference room of the Faculty of Arts,CUHK

he prestigious Chinese University of Hong Kong (CUHK) recently upgraded the audio setup at the central conference room of its Faculty of Arts, installing 31 channels of the state-of-the-art wireless microphone system from Shure – Microflex Wireless. The CUHK Faculty of Arts comprises 11 departments offering numerous undergraduate, master and doctoral programs. To plan and coordinate the activities of the various departments, the Faculty has established several Committees who frequently meet and hold program discussions at the Faculty’s main conference room. As a critical collaboration place, the conference room was recently upgraded with the Shure Microflex Wireless microphone system, replacing an old system that had started to fail and cause problems during Faculty meetings. “The Head of Faculty wanted a higher quality solution to ensure that discussions and meetings could take place without interruptions,” says Carl Poon, Manager of Hong Kong-based AV solution provider EduServe, who handled the installation. “A solid acoustic environment and interference-free system were the top priorities.” Operating in the 1.9GHz range, Microflex Wireless is an ideal solution that avoids congested spectrum and interference from dominating wireless frequencies on university campuses. The Automated Frequency Coordination feature is particularly useful also considering the large number of microphone channels used in the conference room. The system actively

Microflex Wireless System

scans the available spectrum and coordinates clean, compatible frequencies for every microphone channel. While in use, the system automatically moves away from unexpected interference to ensure flawless audio. The conference room is a central meeting place for the Faculty of Arts’ many Committees, and with changing discussion topics and number of attendees, it required a flexible audio solution that could cater for any need. The Faculty opted for 31 channels of the rechargeable MXW8 Wireless Gooseneck Base Transmitter with 15” Microflex Gooseneck Microphones for seated meeting participants. 3 additional MXW1 Bodypack Transmitters with Lavalier Microphones provide speech reinforcement for standing presenters. The system is completed with Access Point Transceiver, Networked Charging Stations, and Audio Network Interfaces for integration with third party AV equipment. “Microflex Wireless elegantly fits into the room’s existing sound structure,” adds Poon. “It is fully compatible with the already installed, custom-programmed AMX central control system, and is also certified for use with the Polycom video conference system available in the room.” The Faculty currently uses Microflex Wireless for local sound reinforcement only, but with the reliable interoperability and solid, high quality audio performance it offers added flexibility if needed in the future. www.shure.com/asia

VOICE BOX Systems Integration Asia December - January 2017

Leading With Innovation And Customer Focus SI Asia: BSS has a long presence in Asia Pacific. How do you think it has shaped/ impacted the region's market? WILFRED: Yes, BSS had been rooted in Asia Pacific region for many decades now, and had been endeavoring to meet the market requirements; working on innovating the existing and potentially workable solutions from time to time. We have been able to do this, both by in-house technology development, and by means of several acquisitions and collaborations which have helped us take the leadership position in the region. The nature of security threats to business, and life in general, had been changing by rapid and diverse means, of late, and to be able to meet those challenges, we have been constantly working on developing fool-proof solutions. From fire and voice alarm systems and public evacuation systems, to IPenabled video surveillance systems in HD, Bosch Security Systems have developed a vast array of solutions in both hardware and software.

Wilfred Steeman, Vice President, Bosch Security Systems AP

In a modern world where security is a big word – across the segments of man and machine interaction – detecting security threats and warding them off even while facilitating smooth and seamless communications among people and establishments assumes significance, more so, seen from the perspective of an audiovisual communications setting. One that is apparently leading the show is Bosch Security Systems. SI Asia interacted at the recently held InfoComm India with the company’s Vice-President, Sales, Asia Pacific, Wilfred Steeman, who comes with a vast experience of over 25 years from different portfolios of management, and exposure to seven countries. Now responsible for sales operation and general management of BSS in South East Asia, India, Oceania, Japan and South KoreaSteeman speaks on what makes BSS so special. Excerpts:

A customer-oriented and technology-powered product development, and meticulous market mapping and approach have been the hallmarks of BSS’s strong positioning in the region. Our launching of Regional Experience Centre, around the same time last year, in Singapore, has further strengthened our ability to demonstrate the competence of our solutions to customers. Staying ahead of the challenge is a nice thing, and it matters most in security market place. I guess BSS had just been delivering such solutions to customers, and will continue to do so.

SI Asia: What would you think the most impacting- a. period; b. solution? How has it manifested on the region? WILFRED: In the modern world where every walk of life and business has an element of security threats, there is a diverse range of solutions to address these threats. Solutionsperhaps the video surveillance system solution along with the communications solutions can be taken as the most impacting. Bosch’s Dome and IP-enabled HD camera systems have taken the video surveillance capability to a new high. Industrial establishments, transport stations such as airports and metro train stations, city surveillance systems have been highly effective in addressing the diverse range of security challenges. We have similar high-end solutions for Fire Detection, Access Control and Soft-wares to integrate all sub-systems together.

VOICE BOX Systems Integration Asia December - January 2017

SI Asia: In the strict sense of audio-visual and systems integration- what do you think is BSS's stake? WILFRED: BSS does have a significant stake in this domain. Our presence here at this show (InfoComm) goes to demonstrate that, and our commitment and competence in this domain. Bosch’s established leadership position in conference systems, which we are highlighting here for the second year in a row; and we have also launched some Indiaspecific audio products from the show floor. So, that’s, one important aspect of BSS’s stake in the audio-visual domain. On the other hand, the Public Address and Voice Alarm Systems; Video Surveillance Systems, Access Control Systems, Fire Detection Systems and how these solutions are integrated to detect any security threats in corporate, industrial and transport or high-end residential establishments demonstrate our stakes in systems integration through our certified Partners.

SI Asia: Would you pick one game changer solution? If so, what exactly is it, and how it changed the game? WILFRED: What I believe as the game changer solution is the Integrated IP platform which is capable of bringing complex sub-systems like video, public address, fire detection, access control, and intrusion together to provide a seamless and digital control to the End Customer for monitoring, analyzing and auditing purposes. This solution adds significant value in the sense that it promises business continuity in a very foolproof secure fashion.

SI Asia: APAC is a combination of diverse markets- which market do you think the most dynamic and which the most challenging? and why? WILFRED: Every market is unique in its own right, some are technology-driven, while some are price-driven. The market dynamism is dependent on how communities move through the process of development and technology adoption, and address those security challenges that cannot be addressed otherwise. Looking from that perspective, almost all markets in the region are dynamic. What’s very encouraging here is that most of these markets have tremendous growth potentialwhich is one of the reasons Bosch investing heavily in the region.

SI Asia: How do you look at APAC in comparison to Europe or the Americas in terms of bracing up technology? WILFRED: APAC presents us with immense growth opportunities, and customer information on IP convergence and digitization is very detailed- which explains for the fact that customers here also look for product and service differentiations and drive companies to be very competitive. All this goes to indicate the simple factor of their being technically informed and equally good as other regions in bracing up cutting-edge technology, and/ or what is good for them.

"What I believe as the game changer solution is the Integrated IP platform which is capable of bringing complex sub-systems like video, public address, fire detection, access control, and intrusion together to provide a seamless and digital control to the End Customer for monitoring, analyzing and auditing purposes." SI Asia: Would you quantify BSS APAC's contribution to the Group's overall cause globally? in sales and market mapping? WILFRED: This is honestly confidential. What we can confirm and vouch for is that BSS’s Asia Pac has been contributing handsomely to the Group’s global picture and we will continue to grow more in this region. The competence of our solutions and the teams working on them bring strength to our value proposition.

SI Asia: Which segment of the market, in general does BSS get its biggest market share? With what solutions? WILFRED: We are playing significantly in the Enterprise segment as a solutions provider in the business units of video surveillance, communication, fire detection and voice alarm, access control, intrusion detection and security management systems. This capability of wide range of solutions has positioned us as a strong player in large scale projects where both forward and backward integration capabilities are needed. This is getting reflected in our increasing market share in this area. With our strong pipeline of newly released products we are increasing our share in the mid-segment of the market which offer plenty of untapped opportunities.

SI Asia: What’s on top of BSS’s agenda for the region? WILFRED: It’s more or less much the same as every other region of Bosch’s reach. We aim at being in leadership position in security, safety and communication industry with innovative and reliable products and solutions. We are committed to add value to our customers and society at large through knowledgeable and motivated teams that we carefully create in each of the markets, and constantly hone them with our latest offerings. www.asia.boschsecurity.com

ON OUR WEB Systems Integration Asia December - January 2017

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