Systems Integration Asia June-July 2015

Vol. 14 Issue 5 ~ June - July 2015

AUDIO • VISUAL • LIGHT • CONTROL SYSTEMS • UNIFIED COMMS MCI (P) 014/04/2015 PPS 1669/08/2013 (022992)

The Growing Prominence Of Huddle Rooms

• Special: Embracing Technology For Future Teaching

• Installation: Kazak Crafts A New Vision With ICT

w w w . s y s t e m s i n t e g r a t i o n a s i a . c o m

Š 2015 Christie Digital Systems USA, Inc. All rights reserved.

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CONTENTS

Vol. 14 Issue 5 ~ June - July 2015

38 94 94 04 FIRST WORDS

TECH XPERIENCE 68 Virtual Reality Ride

06 NEWS 30 SOLUTIONS UPDATE EXHIBITION REVIEW 38 InfoComm China COUNTRY ANALYSIS 52 Singapore SPECIAL FEATURE 55 Display Backdrops In Broadcast Environments 60 The Prominence Of Huddle Rooms CONSULTANT SPEAK 66 R Narasimha Swamy, Senior Consultant, BECIL

INSIGHT 71 Barco India CLIENT SPEAK 74 R P Sassmal, Director-Operation, Power Grid Corporation Of India Limited TECH TALK 76 Networking For AV Professionals USER PERSPECTIVE 78 Singapore Nanyang Polytechnic INSTALLATIONS 81 Australia: EV At Adelaide Christine Centre

82 Kazakhstan: Kazak Crafts A New Vision With ICT 86 Philippines: NEC's Hiperwall At Software MNC 88 Hong Kong: High Fashion Retail Goes Intelligent With Cenique 90 Indonesia: Symetrix DSPS at Marriott's Stones Hotel 92 New Zealand: Matrox Extio KVM Extenders At New Zealand's National Control Centres VOICE BOX 94 Biamp: The Death And Rebirth Of AVB 97 Oblong Industries: Fuelling Collaboration And Innovation 98 ON OUR WEB

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FIRST WORDS Systems Integration Asia June - July 2015

Guarded Enthusiasm

ASSISTANT EDITOR Shireen Ho shireen@spinworkz.com

INDIA AND MIDDLE EAST EDITOR Ram Bhavanashi ram@spinworkz.com

ASSISTANT EDITOR Elissa Nadine elissa@spinworkz.com

DIGITAL PLATFORM EDITOR Rosalind Tan rosalind@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 J. Mitchell Tel: +1 631 673 0072 mjmitchell@broadcast-media.tv PRINTED BY PUBLISHED BY Stamford Press Pte Ltd Spinworkz Pte Ltd 51 Bukit Batok Crescent #06-10 Unity Centre, Singapore 658077 Tel: (65) 6316 2716 Fax: (65) 63162715 www.spinworkz.com Disclaimer Systems Integration Asia is published 6 times a year. All rights reserved. No part of this magazine is to be reproduced, whether mechanical or electronic without the prior written consent of the publisher. Views expressed in this magazine do not necessarily reflect those of the editor or the publisher. Unsolicited contributions are welcome but the editor reserves the discretion to use them. Whilst every care is taken to ensure the accuracy and honesty in both editorial and advertising content at press time, the publisher will not be liable for any inaccuracies.

The Chinese market as reported in the InfoComm International MDSS report is expected to become the largest global AV market in 2016. As though it was a planned script, this year's InfoComm China exhibition saw its largest participation by visitors and exhibitors in its history!

Up by 13% the final number of visitors recorded was 23,347 with exhibitor participation increased to 277 from 249 in 2014.

Talking to exhibitors on the ground however reflected a more guarded response about the future. Last year when I spoke to key exhibitors the feeling was that things in China will pick up this year with many stating that the government which was freshly elected the year before, needed some time to settle in. This year, there seems to be a more muted enthusiasm with many expecting the lull in AV activities to last at least another 12 to 18 months. For those who keep themselves updated, you will be aware of the crackdown in corruption and how many government related projects have slowed down in part due to this reason.

To be clear, there are still activities in different segments like the cultural centres, cinemas, private projects, events and of course installations that need their solutions to be updated but the feeling is that being able to maintain current status will be considered a success. Black box sales still continues strongly and it is still very possible that China would become the largest Tony Yeung, Chairman, AV player in 2016. According to Tony Crestron Asia Yeung, Chairman of Crestron Asia there is a paradigm shift in China. “New Game, New Rules,” is how Tony has put it. “There is still much potential in China. We just need to bide our time and be well prepared. We need to continue to build the groundwork, put additional effort in training and education and even possibly do more roadshows.

We need this constant interaction so that when things pick up we are up and running quickly.” In fact next year's InfoComm China will see the addition of another hall bringing it to 8 halls in all. This is not a contradiction. Many of the companies share the same thought as that of Crestron. They need to continue being actively engaged with the industry to reap the benefits later. Considering the increase in visitors this year, it is imperative that the industry keeps the interaction going. So though the enthusiasm amongst exhibitors at this year's show was a little guarded, their forward thinking will certainly ensure a brighter future.

Thomas Richard Prakasam Editorial Director thomas@spinworkz.com

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NEWS Systems Integration Asia June - July 2015

Kramer Engages System Integrators From Across Taiwan 4 scaled HDMI outputs and offers flexible control options.

VIA Solutions: Allows users to present wirelessly through their BYOD devices while ensuring security and delivers effective and efficient collaboration. VIA Solution promises true collaboration and engagement for any meeting and presentation.

K-Touch: Using K-Config software, one can easily integrate common touch devices into Kramer-based room control system.

TAIWAN: To continue the momentum of engaging with audiences outside Taipei, Kramer Electronics Asia Pacific collaborated with its authorized distributor, Sunligt International Corporation and conducted an islandwide seminar covering Kaohsiung, Taichung and Taipei over 4 days which was attended by some 150 AV system integrators.

The seminar was opened by Kramer Asia Pacific’s Director of APAC Business Development Eileen Lim, who highlighted the new Kramer products launched in 2015. Kenneth Chen from Sunligt, did a presentation on K-Touch followed by Jacky Lin, Kramer Taiwan Technical Manager, who shared with the audience about Digital AV 2.0.

Kramer Taiwan Sales representative, Chen Sheng-Kai and Kramer Asia Pacific Regional Technical Manager, David Chua, presented on VIA Solutions and Kramer Cables respectively.

a 4x4 Seamless Matrix Switcher/Multi− Scaler and offers one of the fastest and cleanest switching and scaling experience in the market. Designed for presentation environments, the switcher/ scaler features a 4x4 matrix switcher, a video wall (2x2), dual display (PIP/P&P) and quad display modes. Video wall mode comes with Bezel correction options. VSM−4x4HFS includes PixPerfect™ scaling, Kramer’s high− precision pixel mapping and scaling technology. It also has 4 HDMI inputs,

The demonstration stations provided an interactive experience for attendees to see the Kramer products in action. Some of the product highlights included: VSM-4x4HSF: Showcased for the first time in Asia Pacific, the VSM-4x4HSF is

Krama's VSM-4x4HSF in demonstration

Also amongst the showcase were Fiber/ Twisted Pair Transmitter and Receiver products, Speakers and Kramer Core series. The participants were impressed with the wide range of products on display and spent a considerable amount of time checking out the new products.

Kramer Electronics has always been in the forefront of developing solutions to suit every AV requirements. As summarized by Eileen Lim, “Seeing the great interest from the audience generated by VIA and VSM-4x4HSF, we are confident that the presence of Kramer will continue to grow steadily in the rapidly expanding Taiwan market.” www.kramerav.com.tw

NEC Video Wall and Digital Signage Solutions

Versatility, scalability and unrivalled performance are the hallmarks of NEC’s video wall solutions.

The video wall is ideal for situations where superior image quality is paramount such as command and control centres and specialist imaging industries: · Grab, stream and capture content with up to 4K pixel resolution · Create information boards that are updated in real-time · Customise content display from multiple sources · 100% redundancy application for critical command centres · No fuss with costly servers, matrix switches and distributors

Whether you need big visuals for public display or a montage of small screens in a control room, Hiperwall is versatile enough to deliver high-resolution visuals every time. NEC, we give you the big picture or small ones with clarity and sharpness guaranteed in a one-stop solution. Contact us today for a consultation.

NEC Asia Pacific Pte Ltd tel: 65 6278 1818 email: multimedia@nec.com.sg

NEC Display Solutions Ltd www.nec-display.com/ap/

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NEWS Systems Integration Asia June - July 2015

AVnu Alliance Announces New Officers For Board Of Directors At TSNA Conference benefit all members and markets and will assure long-term support for the capabilities in standard components," said Gary Stuebing, AVnu Alliance President.

Gary Stuebing was elected as the new AVnu Alliance President

Kevin Stanton was named Avnu Alliance Chairman

INTERNATIONAL: AVnu Alliance, the industry consortium driving open standards-based deterministic networking through certification, joined engineers, integrators, product managers and executives from around the world at the inaugural Conference on Time Sensitive Networking and Applications (TSNA), on April 28 and 29 in Santa Clara, CA for a multi-day series of technical tracks aimed at educating and generating awareness for emerging Time Sensitive Networking (TSN) standards. AVnu Alliance hosted a reception for attendees at which the newly elected officers for the Alliance Board of Directors were announced.

organization at the TSNA conference.

With a background in real-world IT management, Stuebing comes to AVnu Alliance with extensive leadership experience from other alliances and standards groups such as IEEE, Wi-Sun and HomePlug. Kevin Stanton, Senior Principal Engineer at Intel was named AVnu Alliance Chairman. Stanton has been active on the Alliance Board of Directors and served as the Technical Workgroup Chair for the past five years. AVnu Alliance has also added a seat on the Board, which was filled by Todd Walter, Senior Group Manager at National Instruments.

Gary Stuebing, Manager of Engineering, IoT standards/architecture at Cisco, was elected as the new AVnu Alliance President, taking the helm of the

PHOTO-PICK

"As a founding member, Cisco is committed to supporting AVnu Alliance and guiding the evolution of the standards. Broad market expansion of AVB/TSN with wide deployment will

Harman International (China) Holdings Co., Ltd has brought onboard Brandi Zhu (the rose amongst the thorns in the picture:)) as Sales Manager, AMX. Essentially Brandi will be sitting at the Harman office, co-ordinating and working with Peter Low, CEO, North Asia Region, AMX Asia Limited (2nd from left). Brandi is from within the industry and thus comes with knowledge and experience. Frank Xiao, General Manager, Harman China Pro Group (1st from left) made his official presence as a Harman man at the InfoComm China show. The other two gentlemen in the photo are Niclas Brattberg, VP, Sales – MEAAP, AMX Harman and Daryl Wong, Marketing Director, Harman China Pro Group

"2015 will be a milestone year for the Alliance," said Kevin Stanton, "In this, our fifth year, we see a rich and growing ecosystem of certified Pro Audio products, announced plans to launch the industry's first AVB Ethernet certification for the automotive market, and have expanded our scope to include the Industrial segment. These are aligned with the huge strides taken within the IEEE to advance the AVB/TSN standards, which continue moving Ethernet forward.

AVnu Alliance has evolved along with the standards, and the combined knowledge and experience of our Board of Directors will continue to drive the Alliance toward the vision of an open ecosystem of standards-based, certified-interoperable products that revolutionize networking for all time-sensitive applications."

The first Conference on Time Sensitive Networks and Applications was a significant step toward Ethernet TSN/ AVB adoption" added Stanton. The sold-out conference provided a deep technical look at TSN with sessions focused on application areas as well as hardware/software implementation challenges and approaches. www.AVnu.org

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NEWS Systems Integration Asia June - July 2015

InfoComm Connects With AV Decision Makers In India And ME

The gathering in Bengaluru

INDIA /MIDDLE EAST: In a continuing campaign towards the cause of use of AV in professional domains across India and Middle East regions, InfoComm International conducted a series of RoundTable events recently with a significant impact. The programmes were conducted in Bengaluru and Mumbai in India, and Doha and Dubai in the Middle East.

Welcoming the gathering at all the events, Jonathan Seller, Senior Director (Asia Pacific) InfoComm International, presented what an exceptional experience that harnessing AV can bring to a professional domain.

The event in Bengaluru was highlighted with a key-note address by Tanushree Deb Burma, Managing Director of Karnataka Information Technology

and Biotechnology Services, besides those by ICT Academy of Tamil Nadu, and National Informatics Centre. The high-profile government executives highlighted the strengths and potential their domains hold for AV, and called for increased cooperation between government agencies and Infocomm for spreading benefits of combined technology stakes.

An executive from Cisco presented the company’s initiatives in the domain of Smart City solutions, while a senior executive from Indian Institute of Science presented a case study on the AV deployment they did on their campus, as part of his presentation on ‘how technology-led learning will change the dimension of Education.’

A hallmark of the event was an interesting presentation on ‘Importance of Audio in Digital India’ by Harman International. Prashant Govindan, Harman Professional (India)’s Sales Director sought to present the audio major’s stakes in AV. The event in Mumbai highlighted the growing digital economy and entertainment in the country, and the

role of AV towards promoting the same with increasing effect.

The event in Doha was pretty much on the lines of India RoundTables, with a key-note address by chief of Qatar Chamber of Commerce, and one on ‘how technology-led learning will change the dimension of Education’ by Trevor Andrew Moore, Chief Information Officer, IT Services Department at Qatar University.

It was followed by an InfoComm presentation on ‘AV Technology to Drive Digital Progam.’

The event in Dubai was again pretty much on the lines of Doha, with presentations from Dubai and Abu Dhabi Chambers of Commerce, and one on the rapidly expanding hospitality industry in the region. www.infocomm.org

The gathering in Doha

NEXT-proaudio Appoints Avix Tech As Official Korean Distributor SOUTH KOREA: NEXT-proaudio has confirmed Avix Tech as its new Korean distribution partner. Having founded the company 30 years ago, CEO Antonio Correia announced his satisfaction with the appointment made at the company’s Rio Tinto headquarters in Portugal.

NEXT-proaudio CEO Antonio Correia with Avix Tech President Jong Soon Park

“Avix Tech is a very high profile supplier in Korea working closely with systems integrators, broadcasters and consultants,” explained Antonio Correia.

“With our product portfolio, we see great potential in the Korean house of worship market.”

“We supply and install full A/V systems to mid-sized churches and venues such as performing arts centres. Having visited the factory in Portugal, I was convinced that NEXT-proaudio creates unique solutions for our customers. In addition to manufacturing extremely powerful loudspeaker systems they also market themselves well,” explained Avix Tech president Jong Soon Park. www.avixtech.co.kr www.next-proaudio.com

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NEWS Systems Integration Asia June - July 2015

Audio Everywhere...BYOD With A Twist central cloud server that helps manage systems all over the world. The heart of the system is the ExXtractor that connects each audio source, such as a DirecTV receiver, to the Ethernet. The system works within the venue’s public Wi-Fi system.

Once the audio is connected to the ExXtractor, it digitizes and packetizes it and sends it over the local area network (LAN) and then over the venue’s Wi-Fi. Usually the bandwidth bottleneck in a venue is the router that connects the LAN to the Internet and this solution almost uses none of that bandwidth (just a little for housekeeping) so, in the vast majority of the cases, it is difficult to even notice the added network traffic from the system.

INTERNATIONAL: We are all so familiar with BYOD in the Meeting, Corporate, Education and such segments where there is a need to share your presentations with others in the meeting.

But with Audio Everywhere it is more for your own engagement. Here is a scenario that we are sure many of you have encountered - you go to a Sports Bar to view your favourite sport. Visually it is great...Audio wise not so as most of the time logically the volume is at minimal at best. How fantastic it would be to download a free app onto your mobile or tablet (that's where the BYOD comes in), plug in your headphones and listen to the commentary. One thing for sure - your experience will be heightened.

We personally find it a bug-bear at the airports. So many screens to whilst

away your time during transit but you can't hear anything. That would be a great place to have such an App as well.

Audio Everywhere (what an apt name!) is working on getting their solution in every conceivable space that would require this service.

Audio Everywhere was founded 3 years ago and they are currently in the third generation of their solution. According to Lance Glasser, President and CEO of ExXothermic, Inc, the company that owns the Audio Everywhere solution, there are more than 100 installations in the field already.

How does it work? The Audio Everywhere system consists of three parts: the Apps, the ExXtractor appliance that connects the audio sources to the local area network in the venue, and a

Multiple ExXtractors can be placed on the network and each ExXtractor can handle multiple audio sources.

This would be especially helpful where the space may have many different programmes being shown.

People in the venue then can log onto the venue’s Wi-Fi, launch the App “Audio Everywhere” and pick which of the local audio sources they want to listen to.

Lance highlights to us that the lip sync is good, which of course is important for the overall experience.

So if you have a client looking for a solution that would enhance the experience of the viewer, go check out www.AudioEverywhere.com

TECH AWARE

We love TED. In this presentation, Computer vision expert Abe Davis pioneers methods to extract audio from silent digital videos, even footage shot on ordinary consumer cameras. In his demonstration he shows how using a camera and software we can pick up on subtle motion including tiny vibrations and actually re-create sound and conversations just from a video of a seemingly still object. When you first see it, James Bond and secret-service might come to mind but the usefulness of Davis methods for far more important tasks will sink in as you continue to watch the presentation. Enjoy!

Can the QR code to watch the video:

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Š 2015 Harman. All Rights Reserved.

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NEWS Systems Integration Asia June - July 2015

Kramer Conducts Successful Digital Seminar K-Touch v3.0, a control software that can transform any tablet into a control system device, as well as Kramer’s latest Dolev speakers that deliver top-notch audio quality.

The audience commented that such session provides them with valuable insights on AV trends and a stronger glimpse of future possible changes in the AV industry. It creates a platform for them to receive first hand updates through sharing of knowledge and information, and also the opportunity to interact with both the Kramer Team and other fellow peers in the industries.

SINGAPORE: Kramer Electronics Asia Pacific recently held a successful Digital Seminar in Singapore. The event saw an overwhelming turnout attended by close to 80 participants from various industries like Tertiary Education, Commercial, Healthcare as well as Government sectors.

Neta Lempert, VP of Digital Business Development of Kramer Electronics Ltd, came especially for this event to share with the audience, future trends and directions in Digital Technology. David Chua, Kramer Asia Pacific’s Regional Technical Manager presented on the latest Kramer solutions and engaged in an interactive Q&A session with the audience. A range of Kramer products were also on display for the participants to have a closer look at the solutions.

highlight amongst the demonstration stations and attracted the biggest crowd.

VIA Solution allows users to present wirelessly through their BYOD devices while ensuring security and delivers effective and efficient collaboration. VIA Solution promises true collaboration and engagement of any meeting or presentation.

Another solution that garnered keen interest was the demonstration of the

“Having such sessions gives us the opportunity to be in touch with our customers and hear from them. We are glad that the seminar response was overwhelming and so many are keen to hear about future trends in our industry.” shared Candice Siow, Sales and Marketing Manager of Kramer Asia Pacific. Kramer is humbled and delighted to have this opportunity to play a significant role in educating the local industry and providing solutions that will suit every AV requirements. www.kramerasia.com

The VIA Collage from Kramer VIA’s range of solutions was definitely the

Will South-East Asia Displace China?

According to a Bloomberg report, Myanmar, Cambodia and Laos who have cheap and young labour are set to draw increasing numbers of manufacturer to South-East Asia, which will eventually displace China for the title of “word's factory.”

According to the report the reasons for the likely shift would be due to the connection between low-cost labour in places like Myanmar, Cambodia and Laos, cost-effective manufactures in Thailand, Vietnam, Indonesia and the Philippines, and sophisticated producers in Singapore and Malaysia.

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NEWS Systems Integration Asia June - July 2015

Intelligent Environments Appointed As Distributor Of CommandFusion Hardware In New Zealand NEW ZEALAND: Intelligent Environments Limited (IEL) have been appointed as a distributor of CommandFusion hardware covering the region of New Zealand. IEL believe that Command Fusion automation and control products will be well accepted in the AV market due to their flexibility and innovative solutions.

CommandFusion director Jarrod Bell believes that the appointment of a new distributor in New Zealand is an important step for the company. He says it will make CommandFusion products much more accessible to the existing NZ customer base by providing localised stock and high quality support and training services.

“We are excited about the role CommandFusion can play in commercial

lighting control, it will allow us to quickly and easily add a friendly interface and scheduling system to products that traditionally lack these features.” said Paul Harris, General Manager at Intelligent Environments.

With affordability and a modular, open framework at its core, the CommandFusion hardware range has proven a cost effective and simple way for integrators to provide a reliable automation and control solution. Since being released in 2012, its popularity amongst integrators has been steadily growing. The hardware revolves around a modular design ensuring that all system sizes from a single room up to an entire campus are cost effective and suited to any unique requirements. Already successful in the home automation industry, the hardware range has

allowed CommandFusion to quickly gain ground in the commercial and industrial automation and control sectors.

CommandFusion believes in openness: software and hardware protocols are fully published - allowing integrators to mix control systems within a job to suit their requirements and budgets. www.commandfusion.com www.intelligentenvironments.co.nz

Leyard At The Beijing National Stadium “It was specifically commissioned for the APAC Economic Leaders Meeting opening ceremony that was held in November last year in Beijing,” said Norman Lao, VP International, of Shenzhen Leyard.

The Leyard Net Screen during APAC

CHINA: Those who were at InfoComm China in April this year and who happened to walk around the exhibition vicinity in the evenings, might have noticed that the Beijing National Stadium also affectionately nicknamed as the Bird's Nest was a hive of activity.

One thing that stood out was the video images from the LED Net Screen that was installed at the front of the stadium.

Bright, sharp colours that seemed to seamlessly change images, caught the attention of many passers-by. This solution was in fact designed, installed and commissioned by Shenzhen Leyard Opto-Electronics Co., Ltd.

As part of the contract, Leyard had to ensure that the loading did not occupy 10kg per sqm so as to avoid damaging the existing structure of the stadium.

“With this condition we started to do research and development and within three months we had come up with new custom designed net screen, cable and other devices that only weighed 7kg per sqm.”

The Net Screen was built with LED lights, with an impressive width of 232m and height of 55m, covering a total area of over 12,000m2. There were indeed restrictions that the company had to consider before installing the screen.

For instance, 220 V voltage has always been adopted when installing LED, but

this time, all transformers and ballasts on the steel net had to be placed at the bottom of the structure, so as to ensure the safety of the Bird’s Nest structure.

With the support of some domestic enterprises, Leyard Optoelectronic Co., Ltd. made a double-line LED light screen at the equal cost for single line LED light, to form two independent systems, which ensures the normal operation in case of power failure. In addition, the luminance of the screen during the show is about 70%, which displays not only the concept of energy saving and being environment friendly, but also showcases brilliant images. www.leyard.com

As seen during InfoComm China

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NEWS Systems Integration Asia June - July 2015

Epson India Launches New, 4K Enhanced Home Projector

Samba Moorthy and Tushad Talati of Epson launching the new projector

INDIA: With a view to further increasing its footprint and impact in the rapidly growing Indian Home Entertainment segment, Epson India has launched a new 4K Enhanced Projector with 3LCD Reflective laser technology. The new Epson EH-LS10000 is a 4K Enhanced Projector equipped to deliver stunning, crystal-clear images with up to 1,500 lumens of color brightness and 1,500 lumens of white brightness, outstanding contrast and an advanced suite of calibration tools.

Developed to meet the requirements of today’s most demanding home entertainment consumers, these projectors provide home theater designers with state-of-the-art solutions for creating unparalleled home theater experiences.

The new projector stands out from the rest on market in that it combines Epson's new 3LCD Reflective Technology, and a laser light source to deliver unprecedented absolute black contrast ratio, and one of the industry’s largest color gamuts for an engaging, immersive home cinema experience.

The EH-LS10000 adds 4K Enhancement

Technology for an incredible sharpness, clarity and detail, shifting each pixel diagonally by 0.5 pixels to double the resolution and surpass Full HD image quality without visible stair-stepping or pixel gaps. At a specially programmed event in Bengaluru, the company took the gathering through a ‘cinematic’ setting to demonstrate the impacting capabilities of the system.

“Epson’s new LS10000 projector features our most advanced 3LCD projection technology ever developed and delivers a true-to-life theater experience that all movie enthusiasts can experience in the comfort of their home,” said N Samba Moorthy, Vice President, Sales and Marketing, Epson India. “I strongly believe that this projector will set a new benchmark for home projector image quality and performance standards.”

The LS10000 also offers advanced projection features including Full HD 1080p in 2D and 3D with super resolution and detail enhancement for sharp, rich images, exceptional frame interpolation capabilities, and bright 3D Drive projection for greater brightness when viewing 3D content.

The projector is designed for installation convenience with 2.1x power zoom, power focus, lens shift up to 90 percent vertical and 40 percent horizontal, and lens position memory that can store up to 10 settings for standard 16:9 or 4:3 projection areas, and 2.35:1 wide cinema ratio. The laser light engine offers up to 30,000 hours of life with rapid warm-up or cool down time for fast, worry-free, whisper quiet operation. For added installation and operation flexibility, a wireless HD transmitter connects up to five HDMI devices simultaneously, with one HDMI out connection and one optical port for switching between sources, and MHL connectivity to display content from MHL-enabled tablets and smartphones.

The Epson EH-LS10000 will be available in India at Exclusive Epson Experience Zones as well as through Epson ProCinema Dealers at the price of Rs. 6,79,799. Each Epson projector comes with a promise of a three-year limited warranty and industry leading service and support. www.epson.co.in

NEWS Systems Integration Asia June - July 2015

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New Strategic Alliance Between ISS And Barco INTERNATIONAL: Barco and Intelligent Security Systems (ISS), announced in late April their new strategic alliance. The alliance, which focuses on the software integration between the ISS SecurOS platform for video management and analysis, and Barco’s Control Room Management Suite (CMS), was made official at the Expo Seguridad trade fair in Mexico City, Mexico that took place in late April.

With SecurOS, ISS offers security professionals around the world an allencompassing and open platform for video surveillance. Barco, for its part, develops flexible and mission-critical visualization software and hardware solutions including the CMS; an integration-friendly, advanced software suite for easy video wall management, inter-control room collaboration and swift decision-making based on the sharing of visual information. While both

systems have proven their strengths with various customers and diverse situations over the past six years, this software integration now becomes a native feature of SecurOS. “In Barco we have found the perfect partner to extend the reach and the potential of our product offerings and strengths”, says Aluisio Figueiredo, COO at ISS. “Our alliance enables a seamless integration of our products, expertise and experience. It will create greater flexibility and maximize the value of our solutions for our joint customer community. In short, our customers will enjoy more options and faster response capabilities without needing additional training.”

Barco-powered video walls can now be controlled either with the Barco CMS Sidebar, through an ISS SecurOS client, or using a mix of both, based on

the preferred workflow in customers’ control centers. Through the SecurOS Barco control panel, control room operators can select pre-configured CMS perspectives – sets of visual sources providing situational awareness. Using the SecurOS user interface, operators can easily drag and drop any video source onto the active perspective on the Barco video wall, as well as switch between perspectives on the fly.

The software integration offers control room operators greater situational awareness and shorter reaction times thanks to the drag-and-drop functionality. What’s more, since all of these functionalities will be offered within a familiar environment, they will require little to no additional training. www.barco.com

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- Booth #1715 -

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(TQO #UKC 2CEKſE Analog Way Pte Ltd - Singapore Phone: +65 6292 5800

Email : sales@analogwayasia.com

www.analogway.com

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NEWS Systems Integration Asia June - July 2015

BenQ Unveils Latest Display Innovations For APAC Market In addition, the MH740 Full HD projector was also introduced at the event together with the RP840G interactive flat panel with 4K resolution for superior clarity in the meeting room.

Chee-Fui Chung, Director, Business Line Management, BenQ Asia Pacific Corp presenting about BenQ's philosophy and business directions

SINGAPORE: BenQ reinforced its commitment to the Asia Pacific region by unveiling its latest projector range, digital signage and interactive flat panels, at an event that was held in Singapore in the month of April.

a range of user demands in the various vertical markets such as the RP702, a 70-inch Full HD 1080p interactive flat panel display that features BenQ’s TÜVcertified Flicker-Free Technology, which prevents eye strain and fatigue.

According to projector market research firm Futuresource Consulting, BenQ has retained its position as the world’s number one DLP (Digital Light Processing) projector vendor for a sixth consecutive year, serving as a testament to the company’s commitment towards incorporating the best innovations into its solutions.

For the Education sector, BenQ also launched the LW21, a BlueCore Pure Laser projector that boasts up to 20,000 hour lamp life, is mercury-free and requires little to no maintenance; and MH856UST Full HD 1080p ultrashort-throw interactive projector in a bid to maximize interactive learning in classrooms.

“Bringing enjoyment and quality to life has always been our main drivers for innovation. As a global leader of visual display technologies, we constantly strive to perfect the quality and design of our visual display products and solutions to meet the changing landscape of user application,” said Chee-Fui Chung, Director, Business Line Management, BenQ Asia Pacific Corp.

“This year, our primary focus is on the brilliant convergence of interactivity and versatility. We believe users will find new visual display possibilities with the empowering user experiences that we have prepared for them.”

For Corporate solutions, BenQ has debuted the MX666+, a wireless business projector enabled by NFC (Near Field Communication) technology and USB connectivity. For added connectivity, a HDMI dongle is also provided to enable business meetings to be conducted in a more dynamic and productive manner, allowing users to present on the go, breaking free from the conventional presentation space.

To empower its users to live better, increase efficiency, feel healthier and enhance learning, BenQ has launched the following range of solutions to meet

Demonstration of the BenQ RP701, 70-inch Full HD 1080p interactive flast panel display

For the Retail and Food & Beverage sectors, the new BenQ ST550K smart signage boasts of an ultra-high definition resolution of 4K2K (3840x2160), combined with high image detail for the best viewing experience. The ST550K also comes with a built-in Android OS and basic X-Sign signage software that allows business owners to create and design their content at their convenience.

The BH280 bar signage, with its unique 16:3 aspect ratio and a slim structured design panel is designed to fit into small spaces, allowing for a larger degree of versatility. Designed for large video walls, the super narrow bezel PL460 supports up to 10x10 displays via a digital daisy chain to deliver a colossal, immersive viewing experience. The DL550C, with a 25mm standalone dual sided panel, is ideal for confined spaces for seamless video applications in all environments. Built with industrial grade panel supporting up to 24/7 operation, the BH280, PL460 and DL550C comes with uncompromising commercial display quality. www.BenQ.com.sg

The BenQ ST550K smart signage

Are you ready for InfoComm 2015?

If you’re in AV, then this is THE show for you.

InfoComm is the largest commercial AV event in the United States and this year it is expected to draw over 38,000 in attendance! Only the latest and greatest technologies from the top manufacturers in the industry are on display. You’ll also have the opportunity to choose from a full selection of education courses and network with fellow AV professionals from over 110 countries.

Don’t miss your chance! Register now at infocommshow.org.

Use VIP Code SNA for your free Exhibit Hall Pass.

Conference: June 13-19 | Exhibits: June 17-19 Orange County Convention Center | Orlando, Florida

NEWS Systems Integration Asia June - July 2015

23

Jupiter Systems Makes Strategic Move In China solutions has been exclusively handed over to JEYT (Beijing) Technology Limited. Jupiter will continue to have their presence in Shenzhen with a smaller headcount. JEYT is headed by Guomin Zhang who is also the General Manager at Jupiter Systems China, thus making the appointment seamless and keeping the product knowledge intact.

Chuck Kelley with Guomin Zhang (left) and Bill Lee of JEYT (Beijing) Technology Limited

CHINA: Jupiter Systems was one of the earliest pioneers from the AV world to make a strong presence in China with a full-featured office. That early commitment saw the company grow its business in China exponentially. To help ensure its continued success Jupiter Systems recently decided to make a strategic move. Distribution of their

Chuck Kelley, Vice President, Operations at Jupiter Systems, commented, "JEYT will now be our exclusive distributor for China. Over the last 10 years, we have established the Jupiter brand in China with installations in major government and industry facilities. We felt that it was the right time to have an accomplished local team who know our products well represent Jupiter's sales in the country.

We believe this adjustment will allow for even better service and support for our customers in China.”

What it brings to the table is that it offers JEYT flexibility in working in tandem with different solutions as and when required without being restricted. For Jupiter Systems it becomes more cost effective as they can now scale down staff to just provide sales and service support.

Both JEYT and Jupiter are confident that there will be continued success in China with this new business model.

Chuck adds, “In the product front we recognise that software is the future.

We will continue to further develop the Canvas product and we see great opportunity not only in China for Canvas but across the world.” www.jupiter.com

Acoustic Echo Cancellation (AEC) | Automixing | Loudspeaker Management | Room Combining | Zone Mixing | Routing | Signal Processing

Inspired ideas

Sound thinking

The $1 billion Singapore Sports Hub development, pictured above, is a partner for which Symetrix has provided outstanding signal management tools.

Founded almost 40 years ago as part of a mission to make life sound better, Seattle, US-based Symetrix is a world-leader in the development of audio digital signal processing.

Here, an array of more than 85 SymNet Edge Dante® open-architecture DSPs power a site-wide audio network, whilst scalable SymNet xIn & xOut expanders and SymNet I/O option cards, including analog and AES-3, provide customizable I/O configurations. SymNet Edge’s onboard gigabit switches, 600+ time-tested DSP modules and compatibility with the custom-GUI SymVue software made the installer’s choice simple.

With a starting-base in the studio and MI communities, its dedication to pure, intelligible and perfected sound has resulted in the production of an award-winning product selection. Today, the company drives forward in the commercial audio marketplace with its passionate commitment to intuitive, cost-effective processing solutions. Symetrix makes life sound better. Explore the complete line of Symetrix’ commercial audio products.

www.symetrix.co Conference: June 13-19 | Exhibits: June 17-19 Orange County Convention Center | Orlando, Florida

Visit Symetrix at InfoComm 2015 | Booth 321

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NEWS Systems Integration Asia June - July 2015

OCA Alliance Sees Huge Opportunity In Open Control Architecture For AV And Systems Integration Sectors the highest potential benefit for both consultants and end users,” said Marc.

The OCA Alliance is taking it to the next level by working towards rendering OCA as a ratified AES standard. At the 137th AES Convention that was held in Los Angeles in October last year, the OCA Alliance presented “AESX210”.

(L-R) Marc Weber and Ethan Wetzell

INTERNATIONAL: The advantages are clear. Interoperability between systems will bring about new possibilities and seamless integration. A chat with Marc Weber from d&b and Ethan Wetzell from Bosch Communications reflected their dedication and keenness to promote the Alliances' vision to promote a common remote control standard to the AV industry.

Marc commented, “Imagine having the flexibility and choice to pick and choose your solutions based on features rather than protocol.”

“The vision is that Open control architecture will eliminate a lot of technology hurdles that will enable the consultant and integrator to concentrate more on the user experience thereby creating happy customers that will benefit the industry as a whole,” added Ethan Wetzell.

The OCA Alliance was established in 2011 and currently has 14 members.

OCA is an open control and monitoring

AR Eyewear Offers Interesting Possibilities

standard for professional audio and AV media network devices. From a single device and controller to networks with almost any number of devices and multiple controllers, OCA provides for powerful, high speed, low cost, robust system control and monitoring of devices from different manufacturers. It can be used in conjunction with any available transport protocol (Dante, AVB, AES67, Cobranet,etc). The architecture currently operates on commodity Ethernet networking hardware or via standard 802.11 Wi-Fi, and will be extended in the future to other protocols.

Both Marc and Ethan emphasise that the OCA control architecture is already a proven, reliable and robust system.

“We have proven the performance and reliability of the OCA protocol in the field, on major international concert tours including Beyoncé and Jay-Z On the Run Tour, Lady Gaga, Eminem and Rihanna The Monster Tour. We are now spreading the word to the AV integration sector and working on the first real world solutions for these applications, with During the EmTech Singapore conference that was held in January this year, Professor Steven Feinder, a computer scientist from Colombia University spoke about the future of interactive eyewear enhanced with augmented reality. He suggested that AR eyewear could be used for task assistance where it would enable an

Audio Engineering Society Standards Committee Chair, Bruce C. Olson, stated: “In the AES we are very aware of the importance of networked technologies for the future of professional audio.

Any wide-scale audio implementation will require network technologies from different vendors to work together, and that means standards. Transporting audio streams is not enough; it will be necessary to monitor and control audio devices from nay vendors across the network, and the AESX210 standards project, based on existing work of Open Control Architecture (OCA), is intended to achieve just that.”

“The AES ratification will help grow the eco system with more products and manufacturers coming onboard and that can only benefit the industry and customers,” said Ethan.

Manufacturers, System Integrators and even Consultants should embrace open standards as they allow for solutions to grow organically and in the bigger picture provide for a far more enriching experience for all the stake holders including the client. www.oca-alliance.com expert to guide another person to fix, assemble or repair something whilst being in a remote location. This is just the tip of the iceberg as far as possibilities are concerned.

Microsoft's Holo-Lens which has ARlike capabilities comes to mind. Well the future should be interesting:)

onboard

Sebastian Tan

Mark Phooi

Jerry Tan

Rohan Abdullah

Alan Lim

Ken Wheatley

Jeslyn Tan

Lee Chee Yong

Shooting Gallery Asia

First Media Design School

Light10 Industries

LightingImages

Alan Lim Studio, School of Photography

Christie Digital Systems USA

SMRT Media & Digital

Film Screen

NEWS Systems Integration Asia June - July 2015

27

Valens Announces Availability Of Testing Services For Spec 2.0 HDBaseT Products INTERNATIONAL: Valens, the developer of HDBaseT technology and a recognized testing facility for the HDBaseT Alliance, announced the availability of testing and certification services for new products incorporating Spec 2.0 of the HDBaseT Standard.

The new testing and certification services conform to the Compliance Test Specification for Spec 2.0 of the HDBaseT standard (CTS 2.0) that has been recently issued and made available for HDBaseT Alliance’s members.

Spec 2.0 of the HDBaseT standard was released in August 2013 bringing new functionalities to the original standard, such as multi-streaming, daisy-chaining, USB 2.0 support and fiber as a new

transmission medium. The first Spec 2.0-compliant chipset was released to the market in June 2014, and the first Spec 2.0 products are being introduced to the market now.

“Testing and certification are important frameworks for increased compliance and interoperability among products in an ever-growing HDBaseT ecosystem.

We are happy to provide this service to HDBaseT members as they introduce the first Spec 2.0 products,” said Peretz BenHaviv, Head of Valens’ Recognized Testing Facility (RTF) “Since the launch of HDBaseT in 2010, the Alliance has focused on certification, compliance and standardization

of HDBaseT products,” said Ariel Sobelman, President, HDBaseT Alliance.

“With the availability of testing and certification for both Spec 1.0 and Spec 2.0, our goal is to certify every HDBaseT product in the market today.”

Valens provides semiconductor products for the distribution of uncompressed ultra-high-definition (HD) multimedia content. The company's HDBaseT technology enables long-reach connectivity of devices over a single cable and is a global standard for advanced digital media distribution. www.valens.com

NEWS Systems Integration Asia June - July 2015

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RTI Taps SpringDeck® To Streamline Sales Experience

INTERNATIONAL: Remote Technologies Incorporated (RTI), announced that the company has recently employed the SpringDeck® app to offer a single digital destination for all RTI sales content — such as brochures, product images, data sheets, and case studies — for the company’s dealers and distributors, creating a powerful, streamlined, and customized sales experience.

“RTI is committed to providing our partners with solutions that will enhance and simplify the sales process, enabling them to showcase the RTI control platform and grow their businesses. The SpringDeck app is a powerful sales tool

that will do just that,” said Scott Kelley, vice president of sales and marketing, RTI. “With professional, customized sales presentations and convenient information sharing at their fingertips, we’re excited to see our partners take advantage of this innovative app.”

By offering exciting and engaging digital presentations, SpringDeck eliminates the need for brochures and additional marketing collateral. The powerful app makes digital content readily accessible, allowing product information to be uploaded quickly and seamlessly and presented to customers in an attractive product showcase.

SpringDeck also offers in-depth analytics to provide valuable insights into customer interaction with product information, what products are most popular, and when to follow-up to close the deal. To ensure the most up-todate product information, users receive

push notifications when fresh content is available from RTI. “We are really impressed by RTI’s passion to connect with their dealers,” shared Kevin Tromp, sales director at SpringDeck. “They immediately grasped the vision of how SpringDeck can bring value to their network, and then negotiated a SpringDeck trial for their dealers to experience it firsthand. RTI is a forward-thinking company, and we can’t wait to see their dealer base thrive using our software.”

The SpringDeck app is available in the App StoreSM for use with Apple® iPad®, and the interface can also be accessed directly from a computer’s Internet browser. RTI dealers can enjoy a 30-day trial of SpringDeck when they sign-up before July 1. www.myspringdeck.com/rtidealers.

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SOLUTIONS UPDATE Systems Integration Asia June - July 2015

NEC Enhances Interactive Work And Learning Scenarios With New Large Format Multi-touch Displays

NEC 705 SST

NEC has launched two new affordable displays, the E705 SST and the E805 SST, using ShadowSenseTM touch technology, offering an immersive interactive experience for both business and education environments.

The ShadowSenseTM touch technology offers real-time tracking of all touch points using innovative and patented position sensing technology. Using

large format displays with ShadowSenseTM touch, education organisations can transform the learning experience through greater interactivity and use of visuals, whilst business collaboration can be made more productive by adding more tools to facilitate better meetings.

The E705 SST and the E805 SST both enable up to six simultaneous touch points for all major operating systems, it offers reliability as there are no ‘ghost touches’ or dead zones, and flexibility as it allows for good performance in bright ambient light and sunlight. Further

flexibility is offered thanks to palm rejection, as the ShadowSenseTM touch technology can prevent interference from the user’s palm. They also offer ease of use through automatic touch detection as they detect and switch automatically between interaction from a finger, eraser or pen device using Microsoft Office 2013.

Both displays are shipped including a stylus and an eraser. They also come with a free multi-user licence of NECs interactive whiteboard software DisplayNote to be able to connect up to five devices, allowing content to be shared and presented amongst viewers and interaction in a creative and convenient way.

The NEC MultiSync E705 SST and the MultiSync E805 SST displays will be available from June 2015. www.nec.com

Kramer Launches The WP-5VH2 4K Active Auto Switcher Wall Plate The WP-5VH2 ultra HD HDBaseT active wall plate auto switcher is the first of its kind to offer 4K resolution (at the 2K price point) with EDID management, HDMI, VGA, analogue audio, and HDMI audio embedding and de-embedding.

This product offers the versatility of a fully-featured auto-switcher with the convenience and simplicity of a wall plate. In spaces where power sources are difficult to reach, you can power the WP-5VH2 remotely using a Power over Ethernet injector such as the Kramer PSE-1.

The WP-5VH2 is HDCP Compliant and features HDMI Support such as Deep Colour, x.v.ColourTM and 3D. It is able to automatically detect Live input (based on video clock presence),

as well as detect analogue audio and embedding. The unit also features Kramer's I-EDIDPro Intelligent EDID processing that handles and processes EDID algorithm that ensure Plug and Play operation for HDMI systems.

Another feature is the Kramer Equalization and re-Klocking technology that rebuilds the digital signal to travel longer distances should there be a need to extend the range.

Normal mode range is 130m and up to 180m in extended range mode when using BCHDKat6a cables. www.kramerelectronics.com

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32

SOLUTIONS UPDATE Systems Integration Asia June - July 2015

Screen Innovations Announces New Lower Gain Slate Screen The new, black Slate .8 gain screen (along with Slate 1.2 gain) features Screen Innovations' largest, most versatile ambient-light-rejecting screen technology to date, and is available in sizes of up to a 250 inches (diagonal) in Zero Edge® FLEX, Fixed, and Motorized screen formats.

According to the company Slate® delivers stunning images and a fully immersive entertainment experience by rejecting 65% of a room’s ambient light, vs. a white or grey screen’s rejection of less than 10%, in addition to delivering a 55% increase in contrast over its nearest competitor. www.screeninnovations.com

Extron Introduces IN1608 Models With HDBaseT Compatibility The IN1608 HDBT, is a new model of the IN1608 product family featuring an HDBaseT-compatible output for streamlined integration with HDBaseTenabled displays. This twisted pair output can be used to send digital video and embedded audio, plus bidirectional RS-232 and IR signals up to 330 feet (100 meters) over shielded CATx cable. The IN1608 is a versatile scaling presentation switcher that delivers all of the technologically advanced capabilities you need to design and integrate a complete AV system in one box. This includes an HDCP-compliant, multi-format video switcher, an advanced scaling engine, integrated DTP signal extension, an available high performance mono or stereo amplifier, and an available builtin IPCP Pro 350 control processor for complete AV system control.

The advanced scaling engine can scale HDMI, RGB, component, and standard definition video signals to a common high resolution output. It provides high performance deinterlacing of all interlaced signals up to 1080i, and

Deep Colour processing to deliver optimal image quality. With Extron exclusive EDID Minder, Key Minder, and SpeedSwitch, integrators can easily connect sources and displays with plugand-play simplicity, automatic device negotiation, and nearly instantaneous switching.

The IN1608 can serve as the central component for audio system integration.

It includes eight-input audio switching,

two mic/line inputs, HDMI audio embedding and de-embedding, and several audio processing features for mixing, ducking, tone adjustments, and more. IN1608 SA models feature a 2x50 watt Class D stereo power amplifier, while IN1608 MA models include a 100 watt Class D mono power amplifier. www.extron.com

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SOLUTIONS UPDATE Systems Integration Asia June - July 2015

Zytronic Enriches Interactive Mozayo Touch Table with SpinTouch display driven by an embedded high performance Windows® 8.1 PC. The touch table is built to be rugged and reliable in order to withstand the most demanding indoor environments. The glass edge-to-edge, zero bezel design repels water and minimizes glare from overhead lighting.

The Mozayo makes use of Zytronic’s ZXY200 multi-touch controller in conjunction with a 46 inch PCT touch sensor underneath 8mm thick thermally toughened glass. Zytronic’s multi-touch sensors combine unrivalled durability and fast, accurate touch performance with crisp, sleek aesthetics.

Leading developer and manufacturer of advanced projected capacitive touch screen solutions, Zytronic, has helped SpinTouch International and Rok Interactive bring to market the Mozayo, a multi-touch table that combines elegant design with carefully crafted ergonomics. With potential applications including trade shows, promotional

events and novel retail experiences, the Mozayo is a striking and interactive method of sharing, creating or displaying information.

Available in four different finishes and designs, the Mozayo supports up to 40 simultaneous touch points on a high-definition 46 inch multi-touch

The Mozayo can be used with a downloadable custom software package from SpinTouch, ‘My Showcase™’ and ‘Dream Touch™’ programmes offering enhanced presentation and animation features, ideal for promotional or retail applications. www.zytronic.co.uk

Avenview Launches 4 Screen Video Wall Processor With Rotation The DVI-PROWALL-4X is a 4 display video wall processor that performs the dedicated function of taking one image in, to up to 4 screens out and allows image rotation and resizing.

With built in rotation and resize options, the user can now easily combine different size monitors with both landscape and portrait orientations.

Each DVI output has an independent controllable display area so users can adjust each output according to their needs. Each output can also be rotated independently in order to mix portrait images with landscape images.

These features combine to allow the PROWALL to create visual displays with high creativity and visual impact, perfect

for retail applications, custom signage, or entertainment displays.

Enhancing these features, the PROWALL also carries audio, which means that the DVI-PROWALL-4X can be used in settings for entertainment – like sports bars and home theatres. Imagine watching the big game over 4 screens in the comfort of your own home!

The Control Software that is included with the PROWALL is easy to use, and allows full control of all the features of the device from any PC or laptop over Ethernet or USB. The device also comes with an IR Remote with buttons for basic functions as well as 6 preset quick layouts for easy selection.

The DVI-PROWALL-4X is a small form factor device, making it easy to fit into any installation, and the competitive price makes it accessible to many clients and budgets.

You can contact Avenview Asia for more details at (T)+852 67184654 Email: wenxi@avenview.com www.avenview.com

SOLUTIONS UPDATE Systems Integration Asia June - July 2015

35

Barco Introduces an Interactive Collaboration Platform For The BYOD Era Barco's interactive collaboration platform for meeting and training rooms, allows users to enrich the meeting with content from any digital device – not only laptops, smartphones and tablets, but also document cameras, networked sources, IP cameras, and more. The meeting participants have total freedom over what and how to share, making meetings ever more collaborative and engaging.

The platform’s power not only lies in the range of devices supported – it also facilitates structuring in the collaboration mix. With an easy-to-use touch-screen interface, a moderator selects which content is shown on the large screen.

This is especially useful in large meeting rooms or training rooms, where a lot of people want to share their views at the

same time. Moreover, the touch-screen interface can also be used to select the layout of one or two central screen(s).

This allows the moderator to highlight certain content windows by making them larger than the others. The system’s intelligence proposes layouts to make sure the screen’s pixel estate is used optimally.

Barco’s networked collaboration solution for meeting and training rooms is composed as a modular system.

This means additional equipment and technology can be added at any time, making it an extremely future-proof system. At the heart of the system is Barco’s new NRC-200 networked room compositor. This device receives all input sources (up to 8), does the necessary processing, and can drive two screens of

up to UHD (4k) resolution. Both screens are controlled by a user interface on a commercial off-the-shelf (COTS) touchenabled PC and can show completely independent content. Moreover, the solution consists of a ClickShare CSC system to connect laptops, tablets and smartphones. Optionally, AV-to-IP encoders can be added to connect nonnetworked sources.

All components of the solution, including the new NRC-200, are currently shipping. www.barco.com

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36

SOLUTIONS UPDATE Systems Integration Asia June - July 2015

Crestron Releases Two New High-Definition Scalers The Crestron HD-SCALER-HD-E (HDMI® In, HDMI Out) and HD-SCALER-VGA-E (VGA In, HDMI Out) provide streamlined, application-specific HD scaling solutions.

They deliver all the features and controls needed to display all AV sources correctly — easily and affordably. Both automatically scale any input signal to match the native resolution of a display or other HDMI® device.

The HD-SCALER-HD-E provides a single HDMI input and output, plus audio embedding and de-embedding.

It enables users to display otherwise incompatible HDMI signals on HDMI displays, and upscale standard definition video to HD. It also includes analog audio input, and the ability to output analog audio and HDMI at the same time.

The HD-SCALER-VGA-E is a simple, cost-effective video scaler designed to enable an HD, SD, or computer display

device to handle analog VGA, RGB, and component video signals with input resolutions up to Full HD 1080p or WUXGA. The HD-SCALER-VGA-E connects to an HDMI or DVI input, enabling support for a variety of analog signals, and ensuring that every source displays reliably and beautifully. Fully automatic operation is achieved using the display’s EDID — just connect the HD-SCALER-VGA-E to the display and it

intelligently converts and enhances the incoming signal for optimal appearance on the display.

The compact HD-SCALER-HD-E and HD-SCALER-VGA-E also offers unprecedented installation flexibility.

Mount them in a rack, or discreetly under a table or behind a display. www.crestron.com

TE Debuts HXU-1 Xtreme HDMI Extender With Matrix Switching Solution

Transformative Engineering has introduced its HXU-1 Xtreme HDMI extender that provides point-to-point ranges up to 600 feet (180m) on Cat6

and 500 feet on Cat5e and offers unique, cost-effective AV switching solutions without the costly structural limitations of a fixed matrix switch.

The HXU-1 is designed to simultaneously extend and distribute HDMI, USB, analog audio, RS232, and IR signals over CAT5e/6 and supports 1080p HD video and up to 1920 x 1200 (WUXGA) resolution. The HXU-1 transmitter and receiver units can be connected together for a long-range Point-to-Point connection via CAT5e/6 cable. They can also function as Point-to-Multi-Point or Multi-Point-to-Multi-Point solutions by connecting to a gigabit fast network switch with IGMP snooping and 8K Jumbo Frame support. www.transformativeengineering.com

SOLUTIONS UPDATE Systems Integration Asia June - July 2015

37

JEVIS CONNECT's Unique Mounting Solution For Large Format Display

The Mobile Rotatable Table

The Mobile Cart Mount

Jevis Connect has rolled out two new Electric Mountings for large LCD Displays. The Mobile Cart Mount and the Mobile Rotatable Table are targeted at the Conference, Education, Health and Hospitality segments that require LCD mounts which are easily adjustable to cater to different height requirements. As an example a customer on a wheelchair may need to use the touch screen panel with a lower height, while a 6-ft tall person will need to adjust the panel in a high position.

Both solutions are suitable for any brand of flat panel displays, are light weight with electrically powered lift and made of durable aluminium material. The Mobile Cart Mount is able to cater up to 84” display and is ideal for interactive touch usage. It offers height adjustment of between 1.275mm to 1.872mm and is operable with a simple up/down control button. Maximum weight load is 130kg.

The Mobile Rotatable Table is suitable for displays that are between 42” to 65”. It offers multi-angle horizontal and vertical adjustments from 90 to 180 degrees. In vertical position the height can be adjusted between 940mm to 1340mm and in horizontal position the height can be adjusted between 820mm to 1220mm. Maximum weight load is 55kg. A remote control is available for this solution. www.jevisconnect.com

38

EXHIBITION REVIEW Systems Integration Asia June - July 2015

Aggregating The Best Of Asian Technology InfoComm China saw a 13% increase in visitors attendance this year.

T

he InfoComm China 2015 Exhibition and Summit held last April at the China National Convention Center closed with the largest participation by visitors and exhibitors in its history.

The number of visitors from various countries and regions recorded was 23,347, up 13% compared to 20,738 in the 2014 edition. Exhibitors increased to 277 from 249 in 2014, spreading over a floor area of 50,000 sqm covering seven halls. The Summit registered positive response with 2,864 delegates, learning and sharing ideas and information over three days and across 39 robust and engaging sessions.

The success of InfoComm China 2015 was evident in the buzz and excitement on the packed exhibition floor over the three days. Vertical market end-users as well as trade and channel professionals intermingled freely with solution providers to discuss and explore proAV and ICT solutions that address their diverse needs.

By Thomas Richard & Shireen Ho

â&#x20AC;&#x153;We will continue to build on the strong foundation achieved thus far and strengthen the ecosystem for the pro-AV and ICT industries in Asia Pacific. Our vision is to grow InfoComm China into a global event in the Asia Pacific where thought leaders, inventors, innovators from around the world converge to catalyse the adoption of digital technologies.â&#x20AC;?

- Richard Tan, InfoCommAsia

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World Premiere For exhibitors who want to highlight the entrance of their new products to the Chinese market, InfoComm has created the “World Premiere” platform for that purpose. Below are some of the brands who presented at the inaugural series.

4K curve edge blending processor for multiple projector and digital signage applications such as edge-blending, passive 3D and creative video wall applications.

Mt. Titlis (Partnering VTRON)

Based in Beijing, Mt Titlis is a solution provider of professional control room consoles. At World Premiere, the company showcased its latest console, the MT-L Lifted series. Created to bear the most aggressive of weight, the MT-L consoles are made in solid steel plate.

Robust yet flexible, the module structure design can be customised to suit individual needs. The MT-L consoles also come with intelligent desktop hover and adjustable screen mounts/console height.

BXB Electronics

Taiwanese BXB Electronics took the stage and launched their latest IP-based PA System, the WMP-3000 series.

Combining IP-based PA system with conference system, the WMP-3000 is a complete solution for emergency command.

The WMP-3000 system forms an integral part of a large system by supplying it with enhanced functionality and flexibilty. VoIP is also included in the WMP-3000 system, enabling it to carry out emergency evacuation, alarms for disaster prevention, audio and video intercom, and security surveillance through LAN/wireless internet, audiovideo interconnection, and simultaneous two-way transmission to guarantee environment protection and human safety. www.bxb.tw

Mt Titlis also partnered with VTRON to showcase a 67” ultra-high brightness video wall cube with visualisation applications for different industries including finance, transportation and security. The total solution offers a common platform for data collection, allows meaningful message and clear image to be displayed on a large screen. www.mttitlis.com/EN/

VNS

Founded in 2000, VNS Inc. is a Taiwanese manufacturer of quality video products. At World Premiere this year, VNS showcased their GeoBox G-602, a

The GeoBox G-602 comes with 5 inputs (2x HDMI, 1x DP, 1x DualLink DVI, 1x VGA) and 2x HDMI outputs with optional DVI connectors. All digital input ports support up to 2560x1600 / 3840x1080 @60Hz and 4K UHD @30Hz resolution with 4:4:4 full sampling. www.vnstw.com

Ronghao Vision Technology

As part of Chongqing Ronghao Investment Group, Ronghao Vision Technology is an emerging display company headquartered in Chongqing, China. A visual solutions provider, the company presented its DLP fusion splicing Display Unit at World Premiere.

Adopting Texas Instrument's latest technology, the LVDS DMD display chip and BrillantColour TM, the unit displays vivid, clear images. The DarkChip3™, combined with the use of high greyscale, 3D high-frequency pulse circuit and RongHao's patent screen, also increased the contrast significantly, hence allowing for more even distribution of colours. www.rhvws.com

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EXHIBITION REVIEW Systems Integration Asia June - July 2015

Philips Signage Solutions

Addressing the Chinese market's need for display solutions, Philips China rolled out a series of display solutions at InfoComm China this year. With 4 models measuring at 164”, 144”, 110” and 55”, the ED and XD series of LED panels were launched exclusively for the Chinese market.

Created for the exhibition purposes, transportation/transit, hospitality and boardrooms, the ED series fill the market's demand for big LED screens.

With high-brightness level at 1200cd/m2, it is visible even under strong sunlight.

Structurally thin and power-saving, the displays are said to have a lifetime of 100,000 hours.

Aurora

The IPX-TC1 is one of the industry’s first 4K2K transceiver with zero compression and latency based on BlueRiver NT™ platform. The IPX-TC1 can be set up as either one to make installation, inventory, and troubleshooting easier. Another industry first is the option slot to add other IP capabilities, like ExtremeUSB® (USB 2.0 over IP) or Dante® audio, for a more complete, distributed system. auroramultimedia.com

www.philips.com.cn

Extron

Over 20 new Extron products were launched in Bejing this year. One of which is the SMP351 streaming encoder.

Designed for recording and streaming simultaneously, the encoder features five inputs that enables it to create high-impact presentations by combining two high resolutions signals, a background image, and metadata into dynamic layouts.

Also exhibited was the Extron SMD 202 which is a compact, high performance media player and live stream decoder used in H.264 streaming applications and would work well as a pair with the SMP351. The SMD 202 can present a locally connected AV signal, decode a live streaming source or play back media files. www.extron.com

Exhibition Highlights In addition to the brands who participated in the World Premiere, there were many exhibitors on the ground who had launched new, exciting products and solutions. We round up some of the notable exhibitors in this review. different rooms whenever and however you like.

ATEN Takes Control

Newly launched at InfoComm China, ATEN's VK2100 works as the main controller that provides great connectivity to all sorts of hardware devices commonly seen in a room.

By connecting to the VK2100 via Ethernet, the ATEN Control System App empowers user with the mobility to control different hardware devices in

The VK2100 can be easily deploy into an existing installation and integrate seamlessly with ATEN VanCryst proA/V products and a complete line of hardware devices, including A/V equipments, lighting systems, air conditioning, motion sensors, power switches and much more. The VK2100 serves as a centralized platform where hardware devices are converged to be monitored, managed and controlled directly via a tailored-made GUI from an iPad. www.aten.com

Adder Previews New Innovation

Amongst its existing products, Adder also showcased a prototype of its upcoming innovation at InfoComm China this year. Adder’s newest innovation in high performance KVM, the AdderView DDX30 (Discreet Digital Matrix 30) is a unique KVM matrix that comes with 30

EXHIBITION REVIEW Systems Integration Asia June - July 2015

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ports which can be shared and flexibly scaled between users and computers.

with industrial grade panel supporting up to 24/7 operation.

It comes in a compact form, with a choice of DVI and DisplayPort dongles (transmitters) available. The DDX supports full HD (1920x1080) at 60FPS with extension distances of up to 60 meters over a single, standard CATx cable and features transparent EDID management and full speed USB. Target shipping date for product will be October 2015.

For the Retail and Food & Beverage sectors, the new BenQ ST550K smart signage boasts of an ultra-high definition resolution of 4K2K (3840x2160), combined with high image detail for the best viewing experience. The ST550K also comes with a built-in Android OS and basic X-Sign signage software that allows business owners to create and design their content at their convenience.

www.adder.com

Beale Street Makes Asian Debut

www.benq.com

Together with CAS Group, Beale Street made its debut appearance at InfoComm China. Solutions brought by the brand include two shallow in-ceiling/in-wall speakers, ICW4-MB and ICW6-MB, as well as power amplifiers A100 and IA1250.

Aavara Showcases Updated Matrix

Aavara's newly updated PB5000+ HDMI over IP delivers stunning Ultra High Quality 1080p HDMI Video broadcast over IP network. Leveraging on the Gigabit Ethernet network switch in market, the PB5000+ Senders and Receivers can support Point to Point, Point to Many Broadcasting, and MultiCasting.

With a shallow depth under 4â&#x20AC;?, the showcased speakers features metallic fluted ionized polymer woofer, aluminium tweeter, butyl rubber surround and sonic flow tweeter bridge. For the amplifiers, A100 runs on high efficiency Class D while IA1250 highlighted 8 Ohm/70v/100v assignable per zone feature, and control for separate volume/ bass/treble per channel, global and per zone via IR and RS232. www.bealestreetaudio.com

In its updated version, video wall function is added for a max. 8x16 Displays via easy web interface configuration. Also, using the revised video mode switching button, users can select smoother video or sharper images.

The additional EDID Copy Button also allowed users to copy Display EDID table to Sender side, ensuring maximum EDID compatibility. www.aavara.com

BenQ Shows Off Dual-Face

For Digital Signage applications, BenQ introduced the DL550C, a 25mm standalone dual sided panel. Ideal for confined spaces for seamless video applications in all environments, it is built

Gefen Showcases Its Improved Video Over IP Solutions

Gefen showcased the improved operations of its video over LAN products with new features and capability that has been enhanced via the latest Firmware release of 1.53xx.

The firmware can be downloaded free from Gefen's website. The solutions offer conversion of any format to any format (VGA, DVI and HDMI). All screens will display same frame with a latency of less than 3 frames depending on the network architecture. There is also a guarantee that Video and Audio will always be in sync. The latest Firmware release promises 100MB/s data rate support and improved image modes of both graphic and video.

The EXT-CU-LAN Matrix Controller and Interface is the hardware that manages and controls the Gefen Video and KVM over IP and Matrix products. It features a user-friendly interface that can control matrix routing of any size. www.gefen.com

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EXHIBITION REVIEW Systems Integration Asia June - July 2015

the iPad so the user does not need to worry about the power running out in the iPad. The iDocks can be installed vertically or horizontally and can be made to order in almost any colour.

segment. “Our approach is IT-centric.

Let's get rid of the Black boxes and have the A/V devices be controlled by TCP.”

www.comm-tech.asia

HallResearch Launches 5-Port CAT5 Reciever

As part of the versatile VSA-51 family of products, the newly launched VSA-51-R is a CAT5 reciever with 5 modular audio/ video inputs (1 HDMI, 2 Composite, 2 VGA/YPbPr). All configuration and control software is embedded in the receiver and served over HTTP to a browser which means you can access and control the device from a PC, Mac, smart phone, or tablet.

Custom programmable serial strings allow advanced control of virtually any display via IR, IP or RS-232 plus an additional serially controlled device and 2 discrete outputs. Beside software features such as task scheduling and automation, the receiver also has a builtin 40W audio amplifier. www.hallresearch.com

Leyard Exhibits 1.2mm 4K Resolution LED TV

Shenzhen Leyard Opto-Electronic Co., Ltd is a public listed company that has cornered the global small pixel market with a 75% share. The company has applied for 65 patents with 40 already being awarded and continues to innovate. At the exhibition, beside the 0.7mm pitch LED, Leyard exhibited its TW1.2mm 4K resolution LED TV. Part of the third generation XMAX TV series, each 54” standard LED unit was combined into a 4x3 wall, showcasing non-visible bezels and 4K resolution.

Both the integration and heat dissipation of the hardware have been improved and the leading precision machining technology now allows for a smaller weight which makes it mobile and easy to install. Of course catching the attention of visitors was the sharp contrasts and images. www.leyard.com

iDock For Your iPad

Comm-Tec showcased its latest iRoom solutions from intelligent Technik, which are essentially iDocks for your iPads. The latest versions offer integrated control keypad within the bezel that offer quick control. The 8 freely programmable Quick Access touch screen buttons can help the user quickly control lights, shades, etc. The motorised docks also provide charging for

Enterprise-wide A/V Control Purely On Software

According to Alex Carru, CEO, Medialon, the Medialon Overture is a solution designed by A/V veterans for the IT Department. Medialon renowned for its control systems in the events segment has decided to use its years of expertise and venture into the AV

In brief Overture controls, monitors, and automates thousands of A/V devices in multiple locations whilst integrating with IT services and delivers visually pleasing and highly interactive user interfaces.

Overture software is designed to run in a fully redundant virtualized environment, providing high availability, fault tolerance, and negligible energy impact.

All of the devices and points are sorted into a database, which can include what rights everyone has. Overture interfaces with Microsoft Exchange for room booking integration thus users book their meetings as they always have using Outlook or a third-party room booking application. Overture can also be integrated with Active Directory and other enterprise systems, so users can have one login for everything.

The system is completely standardsbased and has drivers for every AV system, so long as it is IP controllable (including via IR or serial connectors).

Thus the system is not just about control but it also offers monitoring, alert and reporting features. Access management with different levels of control granted to different groups of users ensures security considerations have been taken into account.

One key feature is that there is no need for programming as the system uses HTML and CSS styled templates thus making it easy for even the end-user to set-up configurations. www.medialon.com/overture

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EXHIBITION REVIEW Systems Integration Asia June - July 2015

Opticis Introduces Innovative Extenders

The IPKVM-310-E is designed for extending of HDMI, keyboard / mouse and provides multicast (16 to 16) streaming as well as unicast over IP network. The transmitter, IPKVM310-E (Encoder) connected to a HDMI source, encodes the HDMI by H.264 and transmits the video signal via Ethernet.

The receiver, IPKVM-310-D (Decoder) connected to a display, receives the H.264 encoded video signal via the Ethernet and decodes video signal into the HDMI display.

Designed for extending of HDMI, keyboard / mouse and provides unicast over IP network, the IPKVM-350-ED features Dual-display mode and is able to extend two displays with keyboard / mouse.

options to the spheres. On show at InfoComm China was the 60cm multitouch interactive sphere featuring WQXGA resolution (2560x1600 pixel).

Their inflatable range offers a much bigger experience of between 3 to 4 metres. Opportunities for the use of the sphere would be in education, data visualisation, geographical topology, museums – it gives a bird's eye view compared to a flat multi-touch screen which offers its own advantages in certain scenarios.

The heart of the system is not so much the projector but a box which houses the heavy duty processors that hold the application tools and content and the resolution crunching and multitouch capabilities software. Geoff Kell, Managing Director, Pufferfish Limited contends that, “There is great potential out here. This is a premium product that has its strong points and effectiveness in a range of scenarios.” The company also produces 76 and 96cm versions with the largest hardshell being 1.8m. www.pufferfishdisplays.co.uk

www.opticis.com

Reach Aids In Medical Industry

SZ Reach recently launched a recording solution that will help the medical industry in training its future doctors and surgeons. The new device, a 3D HD recording and broadcasting solution allin-one, allows medical trainers to record surgical procedures and playback to their students/trainees in high-definition 3D format.

First Public Showing Of Pufferfish In China

Established in 2006 in UK, Pufferfish specialises in offering projection in a sphere. The stable technology by the company also provides interactive

Greatly enhancing the learning experience of medical students/trainees, the 3D recording device comes with 3D glasses. Besides recording, it can also stream live videos using LAN. To retrieve data saved on the device, users can also easily do it via its USB2.0 port. www.szreach.com

RGB Spectrum Releases Its MediaWall V Display Processor The MediaWall V Display Processor is a true 4K UHD video wall processor, offering up to 4K resolution I/O, single wire connectivity and fully scalable windows.

The MediaWall V processor supports up to 36 video/graphic direct inputs and up to 28 outputs/display devices. It processes a full range of I/O resolutions including 4K UHD (3840 x 2160), 2K (2048 x 1152/1080), and HD (1920 x 1080). Inputs are fully scalable for output to a 4K UHD video wall or for display on standard video walls. An optional Application Processor (AP) decodes IP camera and other H.264 streams. HDCP capability allows the display of protected content.

The 4K video wall processor can display any configuration of window layouts across a multi-screen array. Windows can be sized as required anywhere, within or across screen boundaries, in any aspect ratio and zoomed in to emphasize details. Signal switching and preset layout recall are fast and seamless The video wall processor’s web-based set-up GUI supports both local and remote access, "drag and drop" window positioning and scaling, wall layout presets, and input selection. In addition, our newly introduced VIEWTM Controller adds a graphically-enhanced user interface with live thumbnails to enhance system operation. The processor can also be controlled by a variety of third-party devices. www.rgb.com

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EXHIBITION REVIEW Systems Integration Asia June - July 2015

the addition new control options, with one of being the soon-to-be launch ARC3 wall panel.

SEEYOO Sneaks In Gesture Technology

SEEYOO showcased a variety of Digital Signage products ranging from customised digital signage software, networked displays to IWBs. Additionally, SEEYOO also previewed an interesting prototype display which taps on gesture-control.

Unlike traditional motion-enabled displays which uses video camera to detect movements, this prototype, developed through SEEYOO's partnership with US-based SpaceTouch, uses gesture-sensoring technology, hence increasing its accuracy. Set to have the final product developed in a year's time, it's certainly something to look forward too. www.seeyoodisplays.com/English

Shown as a prototype at the show, Symetrix's ARC-3 wall panel remote comes with surface- and flush-mounting options, and incorporates a new capacitive touch interface with LED feedback, as well as a multi-language graphics-capable OLED display that is a direct result of end-user requests. The product is expected to launch officially at the InfoComm International show in Orlando this June. www.symetrix.co

Tendzone Demonstrates Integrated Media Platform

The star product at Tendzone's booth this year would be the e-Media, an interactive multimedia cloud-based integrated platform. With robust processing capability, e-Media is fully customisable on its scaling ability. It also comes with a adjustable 'silent mode' fan module.

Other key features include UHF Dual Channel wireless microphone module, Green Intelligent Power Module Management (GPM), convenient Cloud data retrieval. In addition, Tendzone also showcased the new open architecture DSP, Cronus T24D. www.tendzone.com

Symetrix Teases With New Wall Panel Alongside SymNet Composer 4.0, Symetrix has bolstered its control and command offering for SymNet open architecture Dante-scalable DSPs with

Tricolor Flaunts Processing Capabilities

Newly launched at InfoComm China, Tricolor's latest multi-view KVM controller, FiO, combines KVM and multi-view splitter together. Ideal for

users to control multiple computers simultaneously, it makes for easy monitoring. FiO can support a maximum of 5 cascades in up to 20 monitors.

In addition to FiO, SMARTKAKE steals the show with its flexible display layouts.

A creative multi-display processor, the SMARTKAKE is able to support one 4K signal capturing and 4 full-HD outputs.

Each output can be rotated or mirrored independently, giving users utmost flexibilty. Its EDID management also allows nonstandard input resolution and when used together as a cascading system, it can support video walls with more than 4 monitors. www.chinargb.com.cn/en/

Triolion Presents DLP Cube Solution

Among its many exhibits, the star product at the Triolion was the 67â&#x20AC;?

LED light source DLP cube video wall.

Through a traffic surveillance video, the demonstration highlighted the product's vivid LED light source. The units Bezel of DLP cube video wall is also very tiny, at less than 0.5 mm.

Other key features of the product include aluminum alloy case for the light engine (ensuring dustproof), built-in intelligent image adjustment to ensure uniformity of brightness and colours, Dual CPU design, and super low noise design (35db only). en.triolion.com

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EXHIBITION REVIEW Systems Integration Asia June - July 2015

this year. Featuring 0.8mm, Unilumin's uTV0.8 LED display comes with a contrast ratio 3000:1 and a refresh rate of 3840 Hz. For uTV1.0 display, it features 1.0mm LED. With wide color range, excellent color-uniformity and no rainbow effect, it makes for good broadcasting backdrop.

Seamless and bezel-free, its metal cooling structure offers low noise as no fan is involved. It also comes with a diecasting aluminum design, CNC precise processing and an easy modular front maintenance. www.unilumin.com

Unilumin Exhibits LED Display Solution

A seasoned exhibitor at the InfoComm China show, Unilumin highlighted two Ultra HD LED displays at its booth

ViaDirect Shows The Way

An European wayfinding solution provider, ViaDirect participated in this year's show with CAS Group. A multiplatform solution, ViaDirect's solution can be deployed in devices such as

kiosks, smartphones or even on the web. Key features of the software are multi-touch capability, interactive 3D mapping with routes orientated toward's user's view, versatile search function, live information and database integration, and multiple languages. It also comes with a secure cloud-based management tool. www.viadirect.com

InfoComm China 2015 Gallery Here are some other some exhibitor higlights at the show.

AMX showcased its various solutions in vertical segment set-ups offering visitors the opportunity to understand how each vertical can benefit from its offerings. On site were their award-winning products that span control and automation, system-wide switching and audio/video signal distribution, as well as digital signage and technology management. www.amx.com

B-tech displayed its universal freestanding video wall mount, the BT8370. Last shown in ISE, the BT8370 is designed for the installation of video walls in locations where wall fixing is not an option. Ideal for video wall screens from 46” to 60”, the BT8370 has a highend aesthetic quality and is lightweight yet incredibly strong. Available off-theshelf for common video wall setups such as 2x2 or 3x3, the BT8370 can be used in more elaborate configurations as well. www.btechavmounts.com

Christie Digital created a Boxing themed booth. Taking centre-stage was the Christie Boxer 4K30 projector which Christie highlights as being the brightest, lightest, smallest, omnidirectional 3DLP® projector in its class for rental staging and fixed installations. Weighing in less than 68kg and a brightness of 30,000 lumens the fixture features six 450W mercury lamps. Additionally, it is equipped with 4K (4096 by 2160) native resolution and builtin Christie TruLife™ image processing. www.christiedigital.com

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EXHIBITION REVIEW Systems Integration Asia June - July 2015

InfoComm China 2015 Gallery

Crestron Asia continued with its focus on the DM3.0 which is a set of core digital standards embedded in Crestrons DM product line featuring uncompressed bit-for-bit 4K/60 distribution and scaling; streaming AV; enterprise-class IT solution and end-to-end scalable solutions for every room type. www.crestronasia.com

Kramer showcased its VIA collaboration solutions. VIA Connect PRO and VIA Collage are both wireless collaboration and presentation solutions that work with any laptop or mobile device. Users can view, edit and comment on documents in real time, share files and chat with individuals or multiple participants simultaneously. The awardâ&#x2C6;&#x2019;winning VIA Collage is the only wireless solution in the market that can show six user screens on a single main display and 12 on two displays. Users can also view the main display on their device. VIA Collage includes iOS mirroring. www.kramerchina.com

Lightware brought its ISE released MMX6x2-HT matrix switcher family which was created in response to the need for practical matrix switchers designed for smaller meeting room and classroom environments. The compact MMX6x2-HT220 has 6 video inputs and 2 video outputs - 4 HDMI 1.4 and 2 TPS (HDBaseT) inputs and 2 independent HDMI outputs which both have mirrored TPS (HDBaseT) outputs. With 4K@30Hz, 3D capabilities and HDCP fully supported, the device also has 4 audio connectors for audio insertion and 2 audio outputs for de-embedding purposes. www.lightware.eu

The Wincomn booth featured the new dnp Supernova XL Screen as a 3-metre high set-up together with the Supernova STS short throw and a preview version of a high contrast screen featuring a new screen material, which has been purpose designed for edge-blending and for use with Ultra Short Throw projectors. www.dnp-screens.com

AOTO brought along its M1.2 series to InfoComm China show this year.

With lightweight modular design, it can be used for indoor and outdoor all-weather installation environment. Its full-aluminum structure provides special cooling system. All M series also comes with fanless design and whisper-quiet operation even at high temperatures.

Ultra light and modular thin, its curvable structure makes it ideal for various applications. www.szaoto.com

DSPPA exhibited its D8115T Integrated Conference Terminal (Lift type) at InfoComm China this year. Featuring a 15.6â&#x20AC;? touch screen, the electrical up-and-down integrated conference terminal is of an ultra-thin design and comes with a touch pen. The terminal consists of 4 inputs (1x RJ45, 1x VGA, 1x Composite, 1x Mic) and 3 outputs (1x Composite, 2x USB 2.0) and runs on Windows 7 and DSPPA Conference System software. www.dsppatech.com

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COUNTRY ANALYSIS Systems Integration Asia June - July 2015

By Shireen Ho

SINGAPORE: Roaring Lion City SI Asia interacts with local integrators and consultants

A

modern city-state, Singapore is an island country in Southeast Asia. With a land area just over 700km², it is not surprising that many do not think much about the country's economy. But contrary to that, Singapore is actually one of the wealthiest countries in the world. In 2014, the International Monetary Fund (IMF) ranked Singapore the third highest on GDP per capita, just behind Qatar and Luxembourg.

Reflecting this success would be the upcoming 50th anniversary celebration of the nation's independence. Leading up to the National Day Celebrations, a number of “SG50”, activities and events have been popping up over the year, which saw many of our local rental & staging businesses playing key roles in hyping up the occasion with dazzling lights and fancy projections.

Have you seen our Facebook posts on the 3D projection mapping done a few months back on the facade of Fullerton Hotel? Recently, the light projection in the waters at Singapore River also captivated visitors with animated carps.

All these were part of the celebration put up by the nation to attract crowd and promote tourism.

In terms of verticals, we also saw an interesting Edtech application in this issue as demonstrated by Nanyang Polytechnic in their collaborative learning classroom – which further highlights Singapore education institutions' forward-thinking and ability to implement audiovisual technologies across different sectors, be it for entertainment or education and more.

In addition to all these excitement, we also saw overseas manufacturers and international integrators such as Tripleplay, Tendzone, IHSE and Pixel Projects, setting up their regional headquarters here recently in Singapore – clearly reflecting the industry's confidence in the region's potential and Singapore's infrastructure to provide good support.

And of course, how can we forget about the Singapore Sport Hub that opened last year. Hailed as one of the biggest projects in Singapore, the audiovisual elements involved in this massive infrastructure were also proudly done by our leading integrators.

Last but not least, we must not also forget about the government's push for Smart Nation, as mentioned in Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong's opening address at the Founders Forum in April. Riding on the momentum, Bosch signed a technology consortium with NCS to develop IoT solutions that will enable Singapore to be a world-leading smart, connected nation. Though the focus is on IT, however, with the AV-IT convergence buzz going on nowadays, it is something we should look out for.

COUNTRY ANALYSIS Systems Integration Asia June - July 2015

“Whilst healthcare and educations sectors are expected to be the major spenders, retail and government sectors are expected to invest significantly in new technologies.”

- Sujith Sivaram, ESCO Overall, it seems like the proAV industry in Singapore is set to go on for a while, but in the midst of these happenings, are there underlying issues which need to be addressed? SI Asia spoke to several leading integrators and consultants to gain insights.

Growth of AudioVisual

On the growth of audiovisual business in Singapore, local integrators and consultants were generally upbeat about it. Joe Fong, Deputy Managing Director of Electronics & Engineering, remarked, “Although the growth rate may only be limited by government institutions and educational sector, our nation’s SG50 and SEA games have also contributed some AV business to rental and equipment suppliers.”

True enough, the nation's SG50 celebration and the upcoming Southeast Asia (SEA) games have certainly given our AV businesses a reason to rejoice.

When asked if the Smart Nation's initiative plays a part as well, Sujith Sivaram, Executive Director of ESCO Pte Ltd, shared, “Yes, riding on the Smart Nation Initiative, the AV business in Singapore is set to grow beyond the nominal growth forecasts for the economy of 2-3%.”

In addition, Sujith also mentioned that the increased investment in communication infrastructure and adoption of new technologies would also

contribute to the growth of Infocomm Technology business.

But what sectors are predicted to see the most growth? A myriad of opinions ensues, but government and education verticals seems to be widely agreed upon by all since the Singapore government announced the Smart Nation initiative. Other verticals that were mentioned include corporate and retail.

“Corporate and government are verticals that we expect to have a huge growth, in addition to the retail industry as well.”

- Jesse Liu, Pixel Projects Interestingly, Lin Asia also weighs in on the increasing number of Houses of Worship projects going on in Singapore.

Having completed a project in a Hindu temple recently, Kelvin Lin, President & Principal Consultant of Lin Asia,

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commented, “It's not just the mega churches, but smaller churches, temples and mosques as well. I think there is a far greater awareness on AV integration within their facilities nowadays compared to the past.”

Solution Trends

So what do our interviewees think of the solution trends? What type of solutions do they foresee will have the strongest growth? Jesse quickly pointed out conference systems and Digital Signage while Sujith commented, “With the impetus on improving the communications infrastructure, conferencing solutions are likely to exhibit strong growth.”

He continued, “Solutions which offer innovative and refreshing technologies will lead the growth wave as far as projections, displays and other AV solutions are concerned.” Joe, meanwhile, weighed in his opinion on display system and content acquisition solutions involving IT. In a different line of thought, Kelvin shared his views on selling solutions as an integrated AV package. “I think it (the solution) will always come handin-hand.” He continued, “Unlike in the past where audio and video solutions were addressed separately, they are now looked at as one product. So instead of just doing audio installation like what we used to do, we are now expected to marry our audio with visual/video.”

“We believe government and educational sector, will lead the volume growth. This is especially true as the government is leading Singapore to become a Smart nation in its 10-year masterplan.”

- Joe Fong, Electronics & Engineering

Photo Credit: Jimmy Chin

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COUNTRY ANALYSIS Systems Integration Asia June - July 2015

Importance of After Sales

Needless to say, After Sales service has always been an integral part of any integrator's business. Our interviewees each shared their views on its importance: “When we take on a job, we also factor in the effort that we will need to provide as the warranty support and post warranty support. At the same time, we will also propose a maintenance service contract to our customers and explain to customers the importance of having a professional service team to look after their critical and expensive AV setup.” Jesse Liu, Pixel Projects “Of course it is important! AV Integration is a holistic service, of which post sales service is an inseparable part. For over a decade, ESCO has been engaging customers through our ESCO Care & Global Managed Services (GMS) programmes.” - Sujith Sivaram, ESCO “Yes. It has been E&E’s business philosophy to invest heavily in aftersales service even before actual business begins. No customer will engage a vendor who is just interested to sell boxes.” - Joe Fong, Electronics & Engineering

“With the digital revolution, audiovisual equipment are made cheaper and more convenient. Looking at cost versus quality, some clients seem to miss out on the quality of the audiovisual hardware and think that it is the norm. So one of the biggest challenges integrators have nowadays is how do they justify the cost of quality to their client.”

- Kelvin Lin, Lin Asia Biggest Business Challenge

During discussion, two key issues came up when we asked our interviewees about their biggest business challenge.

They are: manpower/talent acquisition and clients who do not understand the quality of the work they do, hence pricesensitivity.

On manpower issue, Joe shared, “Our business started to become challenging since 2011 when the Singapore government began to control manpower workforce into Singapore.” Agreeing, Jesse also remarked, “Lack of qualified manpower is a big challenge for us, hence we are recruiting new graduates to train them in-house and on the job.”

But the biggest challenge here involved the clients. As Kelvin puts it across, some clients do not truly understand the value of the work and often, compared the products they have, with cheaper alternatives that they think will produce the same results.

Future of AV – Trends and Figures

In terms of future business growth for Singapore and the region, our contributors were mostly hopeful and positive. Ranging from 20% to 35%, these are just some growth figures they have predicted for their business in the next 5-10 years.

Besides Singapore, what picture do they see for Southeast Asia as a whole?

Sujith of ESCO chipped in, “We see SEA market poised for stellar growth in the coming years; the strength of the US dollar is providing an immediate boost.

Many of our customers have shared their plans for expansion of facilities within the region, hence we expect each of the market to provide as much opportunity as Singapore does in the coming years.”

SI Asia would like to express gratitude to the representatives from ESCO, Electronics & Engineering, Lin Asia and Pixel Projects, who had taken time out of their busy schedule to contribute to this report.

www.esco.com.sg www.enepl.com.sg www.linasia.com.sg www.pixelprojectsav.com

Photo Credit: Jimmy Chin

SPECIAL FEATURE Systems Integration Asia June - July 2015

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Display BackDrops In Broadcast Environments environment also means the solutions need to be noise-less. Reflection from displays and placement of lighting fixtures too needs to be considered to create a seamless experience for the viewer.

Barco's OverView O Series video wall solution at South Korea's YTN Channel

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he Broadcast industry in Asia is booming. More terrestrial TV stations as well as pay-TV operators have set-up and are settingup in Asia. Not surprising as economic conditions improve and the standard of living grows and the thirst for knowledge and entertainment expands. India specifically has seen an explosion as many broadcasters have set up to cater to regional and dialect interests. There is also a concerted effort by many of the broadcasters to move to digital.

According to a report by Digital TV Research, Digital TV penetration in the Asia Pacific region is set to increase by 501 million homes between 2013 and 2020. However there is also a strong move away from traditional TV that is affecting how programmes are being viewed. Not surprisingly many broadcasters are trying to manage expectations and are also providing platforms to cater to different viewing platforms.

In the midst of all these challenges, there is also a constant need to upgrade not just contents but technology as well to keep up with the times and to mainly engage the viewers deeper. News, sports and chat programmes began to evolve their studios to integrate more and larger displays with many including interactive displays. These provided the presenters the opportunity to engage

the audience more effectively. Thus not surprisingly more broadcasters are transforming their studios to become more dynamic, interactive and engaging.

LCD and DLP video walls are widely used in studios but recently LED technology is making a strong impact as they enjoy numerous benefits such as high contrast ratio, higher refresh rate, high colour saturation and reproducibility.

Depending on budget and what ones to achieve there are sufficient display solutions to meet the needs of broadcasters.

Topping the key concern for many is that the display backdrop needs to offer high resolution. With many broadcasters going HD it is an expected progression.

Being installed in a broadcast

Leyard has been aggressively pushing their LED solutions and the crown in their cap has to be the installation of their TV series LED video wall for NBC Sports in 2014. “Leyard's high functionality and unparalleled image quality have won high praise from the broadcasting industry,” said Norman Lao, VP International, Shenzhen Leyard Opto-Electronics Co., Ltd. RTVE, the largest audiovisual group in Spain also features Leyard's solutions as well as CCTV, Phoenix TV and many more. “I am pleased to say that closer to South-East Asia we are currently involved in two broadcast studio projects in Thailand.”

Barco and Christie too have been busy with Broadcast projects in the region and in one of our case studies following this article, V2 Indonesia showcases its success in blending LCD and LED technologies for KOMPASS TV in Indonesia.

The trend of installing impressive visual backdrops at broadcast studios is expected to continue as technology pushes the envelope to become better, more flexible, more environmentally friendly and less costly.

Christie Digital's Entero HB video wall display cubes at India's MMTV Broadcasting Studio

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SPECIAL FEATURE Systems Integration Asia June - July 2015

CASE STUDY

KOMPAS TV Furnishes Studio With New Dynamic Display Background V2 Indonesia installs LED and LCD solutions for a more interactive experience

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OMPAS TV established in 2008, currently enjoys viewer-ship in more than 100 cities with an estimated 200 million viewers across Indonesia. Its mission is to provide informative, educational and entertaining programmes that are distinctive to its brand. In line with this, other than the quality of the content, the station also wants to lead the way in High Definition broadcast to ensure higher resolution images where viewers can enjoy vivid image details and sharper colours. With these objectives in mind and wanting to create further engagement with its viewers, KOMPAS TV decided to furnish one of its larger studios with more dynamic and interactive displays to complement its news and talk-show programmes.

To fulfill this ambition they wanted a clean background display feel that had to have proven technology stability. As many of the programmes are broadcast

live it was important to ensure that the displays worked smoothly.

KOMPAS TV engaged BDI as the design consultant for the studio and engaged PT V2 Indonesia to specify, supply, integrate and commission the displays.

V2 already had a track record in this aspect as it had already handled similar requests for four different TV stations in Indonesia specifically for the News studios and thus there was a sense of confidence and comfortability both on the part of the TV station as well as BDI in engaging V2's services.

The Solutions

After much discussion that centered around the design of the studio, the display placements, the impact considerations in relation to broadcast, specifically reflections and of course ease of use and stability, V2 Indonesia integrated the following solutions.

The studio is split into three presentation areas. The first area is the presenter area that features a table and is meant to be used by the newscasters or talk-show presenters. The front of the presenter table is installed with Unilumin P3 LED panels. The LED panel follows the curve of the table and is used to showcase the program name and logo.

Behind the presentation table, is a 7 x 4 ORION LCD videowall configuration.

Each ORION display measures 46â&#x20AC;?.

The backdrop is further augmented with a 18mm x 30mm LED Curtain that is used as back-light and for running text. A little to the right of the ORION videowall is another set of mosaic-tiered Unilumin P3 LED panels. The presenters and the presenter table is rotatable thus providing the option to switch backgrounds between the ORION LCD videowall and the mosaic-tiered LED panels.

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To the furtherest right within the studio, the environment changes to a “couchstyle” discussion space for guests. Once again the Unilumin LED panels are integrated. The centre screen consists of the Unilumin P3 LED panels with the left and right LED panels consisting of the Unilumin P6 LED panels. In this setting a haze glass is overlaid over the panels to ensure a smooth display is seen by the viewers. This was done to take into account the zooming of the camera which would have created “noise” in the background where the LED panels are installed.

Between the presenters area and the couch area is a 2x2 ORION display that is used for weather presentations as well as to show various graphics.

The TV studio's visual displays as such have been segmented to offer different scenarios for different uses thus offering them flexibility and creativity when producing the programmes. BDI also ensured that the studio lighting have been placed strategically such that they offer the required brightness for the camera and the presenters but at the same time ensuring that they do not cause reflection off the displays.

“The Unilimin LED displays are specially manufactured to work in a Broadcast studio environment. It offers wide viewing angle and its fan-less design ensures there is no noise. It also supports multiple media sources. It is a proven solution in the broadcast environment,” said Rudi Hidayat, Managing Director, V2 Indonesia.

Control

The LEDs for the presenter's table, the background and for the talkshow as well as the ORION displays are all controlled via a tvONE Coriomaster videowall

processor. This cost effective processor is easy to use and is able to control multiple video walls simultaneously.

Multiple windows can be used on a video wall to display the physical inputs into CORIOmaster. Windows can be sized to fit the wall or multiple windows added, resized and rotated 360 degrees on the video wall independent of the output rotation. In tandem with the CORIOgrapher control software each individual window on the videowall can transition to different sources smoothly.

Conversion and scaling duties are assigned to RGBLINK VSP 198S units.

The VSP 198S can accept all kinds of video signal, including computer video, HDTV and standard definition video. It supports seamless switching between the inputs and offers advanced image resolution conversion technology and video synchronous processing technology.

Transmitting the DVI signals from the Coriomaster to the Orion displays are Auromage DVI cables. “These cables are AV installer friendly. In projects generally the DVI connector is too big to pass through the pipe but the CAB-DX-EOE consists of three parts. There is the left and right DVI connector with cable with a middle connecting cable that passes through the cable pipe first and which then allows for the left and right DVI connectors to be screwed down on both sides.,” said Rudi... Offering highest bandwidth of up to 1.65Gbps

and 1920x1200@60HZ resolution it is a perfect fit for broadcast installations.

Meeting The Objectives

“We were able to meet the TV station's as well as the design consultant's expectations with our solutions.

Flexibility, Ease-of-use, Reliability and importantly a dynamic look and feel have been incorporated into the studio giving it that extra edge to complement the wonderful content,” said Rudi.

As for KOMPAS TV, they are pleased with the outcome and believe that it strengthens their branding. www.V2indonesia.com www.unilumin.com www.oriondisplay.net www.tvone.com

PROJECT FACTFILE • • • •

Client: KOMPASS Tv Location: Jakarta, Indonesia Segment: Media and Television Systems Integrator: PT V2 Indonesia • Task: To provide dynamic visual backdrop displays that offer stable technology and are easy to use and maintain.

• Key Solutions Installed: - ORION LCD Displays - Unilimin LED Panels - tvONE CorioMaster video processor - RGBLink Scalers - Auromage DVI cables

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SPECIAL FEATURE Systems Integration Asia June - July 2015

CASE STUDY

News7 Tamil Launches 24/7 Broadcast With 45 Feet VideoWall Backdrop Christie MicroTiles and Christie Spyder X20 video processor redefine how news bulletins are presented on flagship news channel, News7 Tamil

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hennai-based News7 Tamil Television is one of the mostwatched and respected news channel in the Tamil speaking community. Known for their in-depth coverage for both local and international news as well as the high quality of production, it is ranked as one of the top – if not the top – news channel in India.

To maintain and lead in this genre, News7 decided to expand into a 24/7 news programme station.

The availability of content broadcasted in high definition, along with the increase in demand for better quality content, has led to a shift in India’s infotainment scene. Fitting the broadcast studio with the latest state-of-the-art equipment for its video wall was a natural step for News7 to take. However, the challenge relied in finding the perfect balance in form and function.

After weeks spent on exploring various alternatives including the Ultra-thin Bezel HD Flat Panels and HD quality rear projection cubes, the decision to deploy the Christie MicroTiles was made when Senthil Velavan, Head of Operations at News7, chanced upon Falcon Technologies Pvt. Ltd.’s booth at the Broadcast & Media Technology 2014 tradeshow in Chennai.

Falcon Technologies, Christie’s partner in India, was showcasing Christie’s various visual display solutions when Velavan saw the Christie MicroTiles showcase. “The decision for the video wall was made as soon as I saw the Christie MicroTiles. The flexibility in deploying it, the resolution, clarity and brightness of the display, and the ease in maintenance were key,” said Velavan.

The ability to hot-swap parts, added with the relatively small footprint and automatic calibration, made the decision

all the easier. “The Christie MicroTiles, used in tandem with the Christie Spyder X20 video processor, gave us complete control over the length, width and curve of our set. We are free to exercise our creativity and produce content that would otherwise be restricted by inflexible and cumbersome solutions,” he added.

The Christie Spyder X20 is a versatile hardware-based video processor with the flexibility of a video matrix switcher.

It converts and routes any signal to any destination device in a quick and seamless manner. The studio will also be able to blend, window, mix and scale along with key frame effects for dynamic content programming capabilities with the Spyder X20.

To fully understand the needs of the studio, members from Christie India’s technical support team and engineers from Falcon Technologies visited the

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studio a number of times to explore how to best integrate and deploy the Christie solution.

Despite the challenge of the impending launch of India’s first 24-hour Tamilonly news programme nearly upon them, Falcon Technologies completed the installation, integration, testing, commissioning and training in just 10 days. The end result saw the installation of 170 units of Christie MicroTiles, deployed in an array of 34 by 5 units.

“The Christie MicroTiles and Spyder X20 were excellent, and having Christie and Falcon Technologies’ impeccable support was crucial in launching our programme within the set deadline. The products are innovative, flexible and reliable, and we are keen to explore further opportunities with Christie,” said Velavan.

“This is one of the largest broadcast video walls in the country, stretching over 45 feet long,” said Karan Singh Sawhney, Director, Falcon Technologies.

“Our engineers spent over 16 hours a day working to ensure the timely

deployment which was one of our fastest to date. We are delighted to play a pivotal role in powering News7’s content and are eager to explore further opportunities in the broadcast industry,” he added.

Lin Yu, Vice President, Christie Asia Pacific said, “This installation is a true testament to our cutting-edge

technology and reflects high confidence in Christie’s reliability and performance.

On behalf of Christie, I would like to congratulate both News7 and Falcon Technologies on the successful installation of the largest video wall in India and we look forward to future collaborations together.” www.christiedigital.com

PROJECT FACTFILE • Client: Alliance Broadcasting Pvt. Ltd. (News7 Tamil) • Location: Chennai, India • Segment: Media and Television • Systems Integrator: Falcon Technologies

• Key Solutions Installed: • Task: To provide - 170 Units of Christie - Super visuals, HD resolution MicroTiles - Rich, dynamic and detailed - Christie Spyder imaging - High flexibility and efficiency - Ease in calibration and maintenance

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SPECIAL FEATURE Systems Integration Asia June - July 2015

The Growing Prominence Of Huddle Rooms

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he term Huddle Room or Huddle Space has been bandied about the industry and in exhibitions for the past couple of years or so. So unless you have been living under the rock, you would be familiar with this term. Huddle Room or Spaces offer a nimble approach to meetings and workings in groups and thus has become a growing trend in a number of vertical segments – corporate, education and apparently even in the financial segment.

In a nutshell, Huddle Rooms or Space are smaller spaces where four to six people can quickly gather to collaborate. The idea is for colleagues or peers to have informal, impromptu meetings. But it is not just to discuss but to collaborate which means the use of personal devices that enable quick connection and sharing comes into play and here is where AV enabling solutions will be required.

Mark Wilson, Senior Manager, Product Marketing at AMX by Harman highlights, “We need to distinguish between Huddle Space, which are

open areas, and Huddle Rooms which are closed spaces. This is an important distinction because of the different activities that take place in these two types of space. Huddle Rooms are where small groups get together on an ad-hoc basis to review and share content, hold presentations and interact with others via web conference. Huddle Spaces tend to be primarily for content sharing, since it is often impractical to hold formal presentations or web conferences in an open area. This distinction is also important when considering the type of AV technology that can be used in such a space. For example, it may be impractical to consider a wall-mounted keypad in a Huddle Space due to the lack of walls.”

David Margolin, Director, Corporate Marketing at Kramer Electronics Ltd adds, “The true opportunity and benefit for this kind of meeting space is its’ scalability. You can turn a lobby, hallway and corner office into a “huddle space” for digital content collaboration.”

So what is contributing to the growth of the Huddle Room/Space?

David puts it succinctly. “The Huddle Space exploded onto the marketplace based on 3 primary driving factors. The Millennial generation forever changed how we communicate and meet. The lower technology costs that enabled companies to invest in many huddle spaces without taxing their budgets and the adoption of mobile technology (BYOD) in the workplace.”

David stresses, “The influence Millennials had on creating Huddle Spaces cannot be minimized. Their generation brought with them smartphones, tablets, texting, social media, etc. as common forms of communication into the enterprise. And as they brought things like smartphones and tablets, they also brought with them technology/apps that enable video collaboration, access to shared drives and streaming video. The meeting space and the enterprise had to adapt or they would die.”

SPECIAL FEATURE Systems Integration Asia June - July 2015

Jeff Singer, Director of Global Marketing Campaigns, at Crestron adds, “Another key influence is the more open office plans and a more distributed work force meaning fewer dedicated offices and large conference rooms.”

Mark agrees, “There has been a significant reduction in the square footage allocated per employee over the past 10 years. This is a global phenomenon. As a result, companies need to designate a larger number of spaces for group collaboration, since it’s often impractical for people to meet and hold discussions at an employee’s cubicle. Many companies are converting walled offices into Huddle Rooms, and others are designating certain open areas as Huddle Spaces.”

What AV Technology Is Required?

It would very much depend on the scale of the Huddle Room. It can be sophisticated but not to the point of a Broadroom or kept simple. Bearing that in mind a mix of solutions can be found in a Huddle Room. This can constitute a decently sized Display, or even short throw projectors and screens, wired and wireless connectivity for the mobile devices since BYOD would be a key ingredient in the use of the space, possibly a basic controller for AV and lighting and basic video-conferencing in some instances. Audio, Interactive whiteboards and possibly routers should the solutions work as standard network appliance should also be considered.

Presentation switchers could also be part of the solution. Where there are a large number of Huddle Rooms, even a room management system could be considered. The key ingredient would be the interface solution that enables users to share content. In essence the solutions can be scaled to accommodate the various needs.

Challenges In Implementing Technologies For An Effective Huddle Room?

Joe da Silva, Director of Product Marketing at Extron highlights, “The main challenge for a huddle room environment is the BYOD concept.

The AV solution needs to work well across multiple device platforms – Windows, Andriod, iOS, etc. – in order to support whatever laptop, tablet, or smartphone the participant may want to use. Understanding the intention for the huddle room will also help you determine the size of the display and the typical viewing distance.

Another challenge is being able to support the connections to the display, either through a wired or wireless connections.”

Jeff adds, “Hardware costs have come down, but programming can still drive the price up. So cost is an important factor. There are new “no programming” platforms available today that enable these rooms to be setup within minutes and with no additional costs. Also, there are so many technologies out there today: 2K, 4K, streaming, and maybe even some analog hold outs. How do you accommodate all those types of sources and have them all look good without breaking the budget? Customers need to look for a platform that can handle all of that efficiently, reliably, and cost-effectively. Last, but most importantly, in many cases you need a managed network solution.”

“The first challenge is cost. It can be impractical to purchase an AV controller, display, room PC, user interface and AV table box for a small space, especially when the system requires extensive programming,” says Mark. “The second challenge relates to Huddle Spaces. In an area with no walls, it can be a challenge to “hide” the AV devices that meeting participants need to leverage to conduct their collaboration sessions.”

Looking at a different perspective, David brings to our attention the security aspect in a Huddle Room/Space, “The number one challenge continues to be the ability to secure the content being shared and collaborated on. In a BYOD environment, content being transmitted from a tablet or smartphone is subject to the same data breaches and hacking concerns that plague traditional wired IT infrastructures. It is imperative that any integrator or end-user research

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and invest in measures to protect the valuable content being collaborated on and shared in their meeting spaces.”

Which Vertical Segments Would See The Most Adoption of Huddle Room/ Space Technologies?

“At this point, we are seeing lots of interest in huddle rooms across nearly every market segment. However, I would tend to say that the education market has been the most open to adoption. In the corporate segment, there is lots of interest but many IT managers haven’t fully formed their BYOD policies,” says Joe. Mark on the other hand expects significant growth among large multinational companies, “as they continue to optimize floor space and leverage web conferencing technologies to reduce travel. We also see growth in higher education, as institutions continue to seek creative venues for student collaboration. Finally, we also see growth among small to mid-size companies that now find it financially attractive to expand AV technology into their smaller rooms.

David highlights that although the huddle space is growing universally in all segments, banking is seeing the greatest surge based on solutions that feature advanced encryption protocols that protect the content from the source/ BYOD to the wireless receiver. “In the past, the security measures were not in place and banks (and other verticals with highly confidential content) were not able to wireless collaborate on content.

Today’s wireless connectivity landscape has solutions that protect data using 1024bit encryption that offers enhanced security that goes beyond just what the internal infrastructure offers allowing banks to invest in the huddle space.”

In a nutshell there is no denying that the Huddle Room/Space will see more prominence. The AV technology to be implemented will very much be reliant on how the space is going to be used.

Consistency, Reliability and Ease-of-Use will be key factors.

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SPECIAL FEATURE Systems Integration Asia June - July 2015

PICK OF HUDDLE ROOM SOLUTIONS

CRESTRON

AMX by Harman

AMX provides a host of products that are custom developed to enable the activities that take place in Huddle Spaces and Huddle Rooms. These products include: • Massio ControlPads – Combine a controller and user interface in a small package that’s easily mounted on the wall.

• HydraPort – This family of AV table boxes can be installed directly at the table to provide a wide range of options for attendees to connect their laptops and present content.

• NX-1200 Controller and Metreau Keypad – For small rooms that require a separate controller and user interface, this combination is ideal. The controller can be placed in a credenza or desk, and the Keypad can be included in the HydraPort so attendees can control the AV system right from the table.

• Enzo – This device is designed as a content hub, allowing attendees to access files from the web, USB stick and the corporate network. It also includes MirrorOp technology to allow screen sharing from any mobile device.

• Rapid Project Maker (RPM) – This software allows technicians to configure a Huddle Room or Huddle Space in 30 minutes or less, versus several hours when using traditional programming. This leads to a significant reduction in cost that helps make it financially attractive to add AV technology to even the smallest spaces. www.amx.com

Crestron too has a host of solutions for the Huddle Space and Room depending on size and needs.

Under their “No programming” family of presentation switchers and controllers are the HD-MD8X1-4K, DM-MD8X14K-C, DMPS3-4K-150-C: • The HD-MD8X1-4K Scaling Presentation Switcher integrates the multimedia switcher, 4K video scaler and audio DSP with a built-in Crestron Connect It functionality in a compact device.

• The DM-MD8X1-4K-C 4K Scaling Presentation Switcher w/HDBaseT® Output integrates the multimedia switcher, 4K video scaler, DM 8G+ transmitter, mic preamp, and audio DSP with a built-in Crestron Connect It functionality in a compact device.

off functionality without any custom programming.

• AirMedia: With Crestron's AirMedia anyone can walk into a room and wirelessly present PowerPoint, Excel, Word and PDF documents, as well as photos, on the room display from their personal iOS or Android mobile device. MacBook® and PC laptops can be connected seamlessly as well, making presentations from most any device fast and easy.

• The DM-TXRX-100-STR is a compact H.264 streaming encoder/decoder designed to enable the distribution of high-definition AV signals over an IP network.

• Crestron Fusion Enterprise Management Software is a management platform that enables organizations to monitor and manage AV equipment, BMS, room scheduling, lighting, shades, climate, and energy consumption from a single platform.

You can deploy Fusion RV (RoomView), Fusion EM (Energy Management) or both, based on organizational needs. www.crestron.com

EXTRON

• The DMPS3-4K-150-C 3-Series® 4K DigitalMedia™ Presentation System 150 ntegrates the control system, multimedia switcher, 4K video scaler, mic preamp, and audio DSP with a built-in Crestron Connect It functionality in a compact device.

• Crestron Connect It offers a costeffective, simple-to-use presentation solution that provides connectivity, cable management, and one-touch control, all in one stylish tabletop device that's remarkably easy to install.

• The MP-B10 push-button presentation controller works right out of the box to control the three “no programming” switchers mentioned above. The MPB10 provides volume control, mute, source selection, and system on/

Extron provides both wired and wireless collaboration systems that are ideal for huddle rooms, as well as solutions for huddle room furniture, streaming, and larger presentation systems.

Extron's TeamWork systems is a completely integrated digital collaboration solution that allows anybody to enter a huddle space, connect their device to the “Show Me” cables, press the “Share” button, and begin presenting their content. When done, they disconnect and walk away.

SPECIAL FEATURE Systems Integration Asia June - July 2015

TeamWork facilitates collaboration without getting in the way.

For people interested in a wireless solution, the ShareLink 200 enables anyone to present content from a laptop, smartphone, or tablet on a display, transforming any room into a huddle space. ShareLink technology supports simultaneous display of slides, documents, graphs, and photos from up to four devices without needing a cable. It is compatible with Windows® and OS X® computers as well as Apple® and Android® smartphones and tablets.

The default collaboration mode allows any attendee to easily send content to the display and control the presentation.

This can enhance interaction during brainstorming sessions, team meetings, group studies, and other huddle room situations. It also includes a moderator mode to ensure only approved content is displayed.

The Extron Cable Cubby® Series/2 is a cable access enclosures that provides AV connectivity, AC power, and cable management for any huddle room table.

These versatile modular enclosures accommodate Extron Retractor Series/2 patented, variable-speed cable retraction modules, AV cables, or AAP – Architectural Adapter Plates, and can be easily customized to your exact needs.

The SMP 351 is H.264 streaming media processor for capturing and distributing live AV sources and presentations. The SMP 351 offers both live streaming and recording capabilities, allowing you to distribute your message anywhere your network can reach.

For a larger scale huddle room system, the Extron DTP CrossPoint 84 is a go-to product for presentation systems. It is equipped with a 4K matrix switcher, two built-in independent scalers, integrated Extron DTP and XTP® twisted pair transmitters and receivers, a built-in mono or stereo 100 watt amplifier, comprehensive audio DSP capabilities, and an advanced control processor that is uniquely expandable. www.extron.com

KRAMER

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the ideal compact solution for simple connectivity and engagement. www.kramerelectronics.com

POLYCOM

Kramer’s VIA wireless connectivity and collaboration solutions have pioneered how people meet and collaborate on content. VIA is a robust and scalable platform that goes beyond just offering secure wireless connectivity. The VIA solution offers True Collaboration™ that, depending on the model, integrates collaborative features such as the ability for multiple people to interact and make changes to a single document, 1024bit content encryption, iOS mirroring, 1080p/60FPS HD video playback, “View Main Display” functionality, file sharing and chat just to name a few.

Both the VIA Collage and the VIA Connect PRO allows users to share files, chat with other attendees and collaborate together on a shared document using the whiteboard feature from their own devices, in addition to being able to instantly present their screens on the main display. Both models also employ a proprietary algorithm that allows for full 1080p/60 HD video streaming, resulting in smooth video playback without the stuttering effect associated with video transmission over wireless networks.

The VIA Collage is Kramer’s flag ship model and it is actually a PC so it also supports third party applications such as Skype®, Go To Meeting®, Lync®, WebEx®, PowerPoint® and much more. With the VIA Collage, up to 6 presenters’ screens can be dynamically displayed on a single display device and up to 12 can be shown simultaneously when two display devices are used.

The VIA Connect is a value-oriented wireless presentation hub that can dynamically tile up to four users devices on a single screen. VIA Connect PRO is

Polycom's RealPresence® Group 310 is an affordable video collaboration solution for huddle rooms and personal workspaces. It features simple setup and configuration, and a compact, sleek design that is easily hidden out of sight, keeping rooms clutter-free.

The RealPresence Group 310 supports 1080p60 video resolution. Content can be sent and received in up to 1080p60 quality and is easily shared through direct HDMI or VGA connections, or using the Polycom® People+Content™ IP application. Polycom® Smart Pairing™ easily connects your mobile device to share and annotate content, making collaboration more intuitive and interactive.

Polycom® Eagle Eye™ Acoustic camera takes seconds to mount on a flat-panel display, delivers excellent 1080p image quality and is optimized for smaller groups.

The Polycom® EagleEye™ IV camera features a powerful optical zoom and optional wide-angle lens to enable capturing of participants who sit closer to the camera (as might be the case in a huddle room), along with a 4k sensor that captures incredible detail and brilliant image quality.

Polycom continues to lower the total cost of ownership of video collaboration by extending the benefits of H.264 High Profile to 1080p60 people and content.

Users experience whole new levels of realism with up to 50 percent less bandwidth. www.polycom.com

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SPECIAL FEATURE Systems Integration Asia June - July 2015

Why Audio is Paramount to

Successful Huddle Room Collaboration

Workplaces are undergoing rapid change in terms of how they facilitate employee collaboration.

In an effort to optimize time spent communicating and brainstorming, organizations have begun shifting away from traditional cubicle and conference room setups, instead moving toward “huddle” environments and casual workspaces. This trend reflects younger generations’ comfort with less-formal meetings within a looser environment in which most people already carry the tools — smartphones, tablets, and laptops — they need to gather quickly in small teams. The continued rise of the distributed workforce also is driving the embrace of technology and work environments better suited to pull team members together quickly.

One big driver of these changes has been the simplification of collaborative applications, which now offer audio, video and a variety of complementary tools, as well as the use of a PC or smartphone as a processing engine.

Though the huddle space may be equipped with a dedicated processing engine, participants’ laptops may be the only processing equipment needed or used within the space. As a result, organizations can realize much greater flexibility at a much lower capital expense than was dictated by the video communications technology that was their only option just five or six years ago.

Since then, enterprise hardware solutions have evolved a great deal, giving users ever more cost-effective ways to benefit from integrated audio, video, and data in huddle spaces. The need for intelligible audio, however,

has not changed. Without it, nothing can be accomplished. In huddle spaces, which typically are outfitted with tables and soft furniture that can be easily reconfigured, participants tend to be more dynamic. They may choose to sit, stand, or move about the room, and thus it can be challenging to implement an audio solution that addresses all of these scenarios.

Two approaches accommodate this new way of working, and each is based on the general design of a huddle room.

The first speaks to those huddle spaces that are similar to conference rooms, equipped with a computer dedicated to data sharing and videoconferencing but with soft, movable walls and chairs around a table in a more open space.

This setting requires a low-maintenance, easy-to-use setup that will afford 100 percent success. The solution must ensure good audio pickup and reproduction for both standing and seated participants, whether working up at the whiteboard or sitting on a sofa a dozen feet away.

The USB speakerphone solution has been widely and successfully adopted in this environment, as today’s betterquality systems provide great audio fidelity and mic pickup, with the volume to cover a fairly substantial space. In fact, Revolabs has helped to redefine this category, bringing to market significantly better technology than has previously been available. More specifically, the company has put both a tweeter and a regular speaker into its USB speakerphone system, in turn enhancing intelligibility on both sides of the equation. Four embedded wideband microphones with integrated echo cancellation ensure full 360° capture of conversations.

The second approach is ideal for even less formal huddle spaces, such as a gathering space carved out of a hallway and set up much like a living room,

By Tim Root

possibly with a coffee machine, as well as a whiteboard or smartboard. While some attempt to use a mic array built into the camera at the front of the room — and a USB speakerphone could also work in this example — the changing and greatly varying distances between participants makes wireless microphones a far better option. These mics can be set up anywhere, such as the arm of the sofa or on the coffee table, and a wearable model can be used for the person working at the whiteboard. Even in a dynamic and unpredictable setting, wireless mics provide complete flexibility in picking up all participants’ voices.

In short, there is nothing better than attaching a wireless mic to a person for optimal voice pick up.

The combination of better pickup and improved fidelity of audio solutions result in better intelligibility, which in turn is essential to preventing audio fatigue over longer periods of time. Whereas traditional telephony solutions use 4 kHz bandwidth and Skype uses 7 kHz, today’s ultra-wideband solutions use advanced formats such as the Opus codec to offer very rich 16 kHz fidelity. Across all variety of languages, this degree of fidelity boosts the intelligibility factor significantly.

The experience of interacting with these solutions is proving to be much more enjoyable for participants, not only because of greater audio fidelity, but also because there are very useful and intuitive applications for PCs — sometimes integrated into hardware appliances — that provide all the tools a novice would need to use the system.

Tim Root is CTO and executive vice president of new business development for Revolabs, a leading provider of audio solutions for unified communications and collaboration applications. He can be reached at troot@revolabs.com.

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CONSULTANT SPEAK Systems Integration Asia June - July 2015

Focused Initiative – The Only Way To Grow Broadcast Engineering Consultants India Limited (BECIL) – an ISO 9001:2008 Certified, Mini Ratna public sector enterprise of Government of India – is the country’s one and only Stateowned consultancy and turnkey solutions agency lending its expertise to multiple domains. Besides holding its forte in broadcast engineering, viz content production facilities, terrestrial, like satellite and cable broadcasting in India and abroad, the 20-year-old institution has also carved its own niche in setting up specialized communication, monitoring, security and surveillance systems to defense, police and various paramilitary forces. The company has also established its credentials in setting up a range of e-Classrooms for diverse verticals.

SI Asia interacted with R Narasimha Swamy, Senior Consultant with BECIL recently to capture his perspective of Indian AVSI industry. Excerpts:

R Narasimha Swamy, Senior Consultant, BECIL

SI ASIA: What is your view of the current state of Indian AVSI industry in terms of dynamism, technology competence, willingness to invest in quality, etc.

RNM: While there have been some glowing reports about the industry, and there have indeed been some good success stories to gloat about, I feel the industry is still in its infancy. It will therefore need some more time before we can say evolved. Still a majority of the user segments is yet to appreciate the efficacy and the value the ProAV solutions can bring to their businesses.

Availability of skilled and trained or certified professional talent is still a major challenge.

Having said that, we can also see it is growing. That sufficient system solutions are being made available from the OEMs, we are also able to harness some cutting-edge technologies for discerning users.

SI ASIA: Going by that, what is the biggest challenge facing the industry today?

RNM: Like I said, generically – barring a few informed instances – awareness about the imperatives and benefits of

technology applications among the user communities is one of the biggest challenges. While technology solutions are there for the grabs as proactive OEMS have been able to churn newer solutions regularly, it is the lack of expertise that has been compounding the challenge.

On the other hand, budgetary challenges have always been a major concern. While this is more or less a global phenomenon, what differentiates Indian market is that this concern arises not purely or solely because of cost of technology but lack of appreciation for the benefits they get to table.

SI ASIA: What technologies are driving the industry today?

RNM: While there are many that fancy today’s user, I believe it is mainly the Live Audio and Projection related solutions that have been commanding a majority preference.

SI ASIA: Has the emergence of MNC establishments been a contributing factor to the growth of AVSI industry in the region?

CONSULTANT SPEAK Systems Integration Asia June - July 2015

RNM: We have to say yes. The MNC establishments by virtue of their parental awareness and appreciation of technology understand the efficacy and value-adds of ProAV to businesses. They have therefore been better adopters of ProAV solutions, which is a certain contributing factor.

SI ASIA: Would you associate ITES and AVSI in any aspect?

If so, what are the areas that are similar or overlapping?

RNM: Though these two domains and their technology applications appear co-related, they are actually poles apart looked from their utility perspective.

Some of the basic technology applications like networking may be common for both, but their appeal and purpose may be different. ITES is essentially a service sector with tele- or audio related applications as their main component whereas AVSI appears a much wider and diverse domain with video, display, AVB, surveillance and networking applications coming in to make a big league.

SI ASIA: While India's prowess is proven in the ITES, why the same is not happening in the AVSI? RNM: This may be because of lack of understanding and appreciation of basic audio [sound] and video [visual] technologies. Unfortunately, most people tend to think that they understand these technologies (probably because of the influence of television).

Ironically, even technologists often falter with the understanding on fundamental knowledge of sound and image, quality consciousness, the way it impacts our experience of these mediums. Thus the same reflects in the professional expertise in AVSI applications.

SI ASIA: Would you be able to quantify the worth of Indian AVSI industry?

RNM: No, given the current scenario of the industry, it may be too ambitious, if not ambiguous, to venture doing this estimate as we do not have proper

systems, ways and means in place to do it. No authentic documentation, or research been done in this regard.

SI ASIA: How much business you think the industry is generating annually?

RNM: This is again a tricky item to address. That there a high degree of ambiguity about what exactly comprises ProAV estimating the business generated is difficult. That there is no preceding model or documentation in place, doing this estimate is hazarding a guess.

SI ASIA: Not many AVSI equipment manufacturers are setting up direct presence in the country- what reasons you see for this?

RNM: This is probably we missed the bus in the manufacturing sector. It needs some special effort to kick-start the process. That this particular segment is not like other manufacturing segments it needs a strong vision, stronger focus and efforts than others.

SI ASIA: Would the manufacturers' making their direct presence here help the cause of the industry- either directly or indirectly?

RNM: Not necessarily. The industry growth is subject to many factors- global and national economy, awareness across the ecosystem, proactive and supportive industrial policies, special programmes to encourage professional expertise etc. all contribute to positive growth.

SI ASIA: It is a chicken and egg situation between the industry and the administrative regimes in different States?

RNM: Considering that, ours is already an open economy, to promote Pro AV industry, I do not think that, Govt will have any special scheme or incentives etc to promote the industry in view of the fact that, this is not considered an "essential" service.

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I mean promotion in the form of tax sops, incentives etc to make Pro AV products economical. It is the industry which has to come out with economical products and solutions to make it affordable for the users, so that the industry can grow.

SI ASIA: How has BECIL contributed to the cause of the AVSI industry in India?

What specific initiatives?

Would you please elaborate?

RNM: BECIL has been making modest contribution to the industry by providing consultancy and project execution services in the establishment of e-Classrooms, auditoriums etc. BECILâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s effort has always been focused on educating the client on the importance of AV technologies in the current competitive business world; the need to communicate effectively with people, and providing appropriate solution.

SI ASIA: What is the way forward for the industry?

RNM: There are no shortcuts! There canâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t be either. The industry leaders, with the top stakeholders of the eco-system should come together and make serious and focused initiatives to improve the awareness across the spectrum on the imperatives of technology, and its role in knowledge and information sharing. There are many ways and means to do this; creation of strong and communicative industry platform; roadshows, symposiums, certification programmes, networking programmes and interactive sessions with key policy makers and decision influencers etc. www.becil.com

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TECH XPERIENCE Systems Integration Asia June - July 2015

Let's Get On The Virtual Reality Ride

Shireen Ho shares her experience with ImmeX virtual reality technology.

N

estled within a popular tourist spot in sunny Singapore, lies a virtual reality experience centre called ImmeX Zone. Established in 2014, ImmeX Pte Ltd is a young startup that develops its own Virtual Reality (VR) technology. From hardware development to content creation, ImmeX's virtual reality technology encompasses 720 degree Real Time 3D panoramic visuals with additional sensory information such as 7.1 Surround sound and physical FX such as vibrators, pokers, ticklers, blasters, hot/cold air etc.

Earlier this year, ImmeX launched a trial in Singapore for visitors to try out its 3D virtual reality rides. Having read much about virtual reality in the news (especially since Facebook bought Occulus last year, much to the awe of many tech geeks/ gamers/ fanboys) and its possible applications, I was curious about ImmeX's trial launch in Singapore.

Hoping to understand more, I met up with one of the co-founders of ImmeX, Himanshu Shah.

The Xperience

I was brought to ImmeX's temporary experience centre located in Sentosa.

Arriving at the site, I was a little surprised to see that the experience centre was smaller than expected. But since this is virtual reality, I guess all one really needs is just space enough to install the VR system (which consists of a chair, headgear and a sensory-inducing device) and it's good to go.

As the seat was mounted a little high, I took some time trying to climb on it. A thought then came over me, wondering, if children would have problems getting on it too since ImmeX have kids' rides programmed for them. After getting on, I also had some issues with the VR goggles as it was a little bulky to fit my face.

However, Shah was very patient and helped to adjust the VR headgear until

TECH XPERIENCE Systems Integration Asia June - July 2015

I was comfortable with it. When asked if this could be because the original headgears were developed using westerners' physique, Shah said that they had noted the concern and were already working on developing headgears that will better fit the Asian's physique Sounds like some improved product is underway!

Despite some initial discomfort, I was still enthusiastic to try the VR ride. I mean, seriously, how many of us actually get to experience this cool technology – especially in Singapore? Besides, Shah also told me that ImmeX produces its own content for the rides. So that means everything – from the VR gear, setup, to production of content – were all done by ImmeX. “What makes ImmeX special is the way we look at virtual reality and its future.” said Shah. “While there are different VR solutions around the globe, ours is not only unique but also holds loads of promise on the future of the product too.

It’s not just the hardware and platform but also the contents we make for the hardware and the fact that we continue to make contents which are backward compatible.”

“And most importantly, the technology which drives the core of the system is home-grown and we have total control of most things.”

While speaking, Shah meddled with the control panel mounted on the wall behind the VR system. With the touch of few buttons, the setup was done. To me, it seemed quite easy to operate the VR system. Would a layman be able to use this system without much training or technical knowledge? I asked. “Sure, this VR system is made simple so that anyone can use it,” was his reply.

So what is Immex’s business model?

“We have two business models, one is the bespoke model and the other is the franchise model, where people work with us as partners and we put the rides in their location and share revenue with them.”

“For the bespoke model, clients will commission us for specific projects and they will buy both hardware and software from us to make it happen in a location of their choice, i.e. museum or experiential centres etc,” he explained.

With the VR system up and running at this point, I couldn’t hear Shah anymore.

The audio from my VR headgear was already blasting away and all environment noise had been cut off totally.

The VR content I was put on, simulated a roller coaster ride. During which, I saw sharp turns, ups and downs of the path laid in front of me, and as I was moving along the line, I could also feel sensations such as vibrations from the chair and wind blowing on my face.

But what really took me by surprise was when the ‘cart’ went down a steep slope, I could actually feel the vertigo! My heart jumped a little as we were going down, making the whole experience realistic. Not to also mention that when I turned my head around, the scene in front of my eyes also adjusted itself automatically, making it as if I was really looking around my surroundings.

Wind effect simulator

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Though the ride took only 5 minutes, it was entertaining. Content-wise, it could do with some work in terms of graphics and sound, but I believe it has got great potential. And since this is a trial launch, ImmeX has been gathering feedback from end-users to improve their product.

Last I heard, ImmeX will also be doing some redesigning so that the system will be more mobile for events applications.

When asked about the reception so far, Shah replied that people were very interested as this is a departure from the usual 3D or 4D technology. “Our trial rides have been totally immersive and they get to experience different things.

They are ‘transported’ to different worlds where they can look around and see different things happening, so the trials have been well received.”

Besides Singapore, India was also one of ImmeX Zone’s trial launch locations.

“In India, it has been very well-received too. After the trial runs, we had queries for military visualization as well as engineering visualization for theme park rides etc. Now, we are looking to work with different partners to install the system in multiple locations within this year,” he continued.

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TECH XPERIENCE Systems Integration Asia June - July 2015

Xperience Aftermath

After the ride, Shah and I sat down for a chat. Because much of the R&D work were done in-house, I was curious about the experience and expertise of the ImmeX team.

“Between Singapore and India, we have a team of about 10 people in R&D, mostly graduate scientists or PhD students,” said Shah. “The core research team is based in India and they are responsible for engineering, content creation and programming the VR system that makes this happen. We also conduct some basic research on aspects of 3D viewing here in Singapore. Occasionally, we also outsource research to the US for projects we are unable to conduct in these regions.”

So what is it that attracted him and his partners to invest in virtual reality technology?

“Since there has been no compelling change in the media field for a long time, we thought that virtual reality could be a unique technology to bring to the region. While stereoscopic 3D was one attempt to move media beyond the 2D

screen, it had only worked up to a point.

But with virtual reality, we realised that this actually made much more difference in terms of how media is being viewed.

It changes experiential experience to the point where you can really, really feel the difference, as compared to stereoscopic 3D.” Unlike VR companies who are based in US or Europe, ImmeX is an Asian startup.

So what kind of future does ImmeX foresee for VR technology in Asia?

“I see Asia as a young economic region that can absorb new technology very quickly. As younger population tend to adopt new technology faster, Asia is a very good market. I can see that the next couple of years will be very interesting and I cannot see it going any other way.”

For business enquiries and more information about ImmeX, please contact Shah at shah@av8.com.sg www.gisr.in/ImmeX-zone.html

"It changes experiential experience to the point where you can really, really feel the difference, as compared to stereoscopic 3D."

INSIGHT Systems Integration Asia June - July 2015

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Barco India:

Manufacturing Indian Competence

It’s a story of manufacturing ‘glocal’ competence – as some of those articulate speakers have some time back inventively or fancifully coined – local expertise with global appeal. Fanciful, though, it might sound, it appears veritable as one gets deeper into what made what it is todayBarco India manufacturing facility, the prideful Indian arm of Belgian networked visualization solutions major Barco NV. SI Asia recently had a rare privilege to visit the manufacturing facility of Barco in Noida, south east of India’s national capital New Delhi, and see to believe what the facility is all about- Glocal. We present our interactive chat with Rajeeva Lochan Sharma, Senior Director-Operations at Barco India.

Barco India plant, in a nutshell:

It is very professional; highly competent, and producing world-standard products.

We have created such a facility, especially the board production, and the final assembly, that we match, if not better, the best in the world. For instance, the PCB manufacturing is of the highest international quality standard in the world- called IPC Class-III. There are Class-I and II also. But that here we are making PCBAs for some very demanding markets, we have to go for the highest

standard which we did. So, our complete facility is approved on that standard, it’s a standard called JSTD-001, and a subgroup of that is on workmanship, which is IPC Class-III. Talking about the value-adds to the industry, India and outside- we cater to a wide spectrum of industry verticals such as Energy – power, oil and natural gas; Telecom; Transport; Security and Surveillance mainly through Control Room solutions. More, we have established a fairly large footprint in

the entertainment vertical – cinema exhibition – with our digital cinema projection solutions.

The IPC certificate

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INSIGHT Systems Integration Asia June - July 2015

In a nutshell, so to say, Barco India is a cutting-edge technological force to reckon with in the context of India’s competence on the global stage.

Setting standards, and matching with certifications:

Of course yes. Whenever we meet certain standard, we also look for an external benchmark. We should be certified by someone else (of global recognition) if we are really up to that standard. The IPC as such, or the IPC Class-III workmanship standard do not have a certification criteria; but JSTD has.

We have gone for that. One more is the Electro Static Discharge, and precautions required there. ESD is very big hazard for electronic components/devices; energy that we discharge by movement, touch, or even a strong breath, is very sensitive for the electronic components. That can potentially damage the components.

When we built our plant with all the facilities to meet that standard, we asked UL (The International Certification Agency) to audit us and check if we meet the international standard which is called ESD2020. We were the first company in India to be certified on that factor. We got UL to certify that.

On creating a contributing human talent pool:

When we got the vision to go for the highest standard in workmanship, the first thing we did was to train our operators. We got as many as 40 of our operators trained and certified by IPC on that standard. They do not certify on such matters just like that. They come here, train your people, put them to test, and only if your people clear the test, they will be certified with the standard.

We went one step further, asking them what would be the status of the

certification if the standard had an evolution tomorrow, and new updates came to the standard. To address that, we got two of our engineers as ‘Certified IPC Trainers.’ Their job is to constantly monitor the standard, and whenever there is an update in the standard, IPC calls them for recalibration, and training in the new update. These two trainers are then certified to train the other operators in the new updates. Normally, enterprises tend to get their operators trained to a certain level and stop there, but we have gone ahead to ‘always have latest training update.’ Because we have these two always trained on the latest update, they are authorized to train others internally.

On the ordeals of achievement:

Setting up a company of this scale – like most would have thought – wasn’t our challenge. The biggest challenge came from cultural aspect. Most employee communities in India come from very modest background where clean environment is not considered a concern. But sensitizing them towards the imperative; that every dust particle is so critical to our work quality; not even a minutest dust particle should enter our optical path, has been a difficult thing - for a simple reason that our living environment is so full of dust, if not dirt, that we tend to grow insensitive to it.

But for the kind of products, and process of their making inside our factory, this was absolutely indispensable.

However, a person coming from a humble background to mutating himself or herself to the sensitive nature of their work environment is not possible so easily. This we brought about by constant training and a feel of pride for their clinical cleanliness.

There were indeed challenges in the beginning. There were days when every product we manufactured here was going to Europe for a pre-delivery inspection before their shipment to customers. Honestly, there were indeed some instances of unwanted things like a piece of hair in the pack etc. Using the feedback, we trained our people and instilled that sense of pride that their work came as good as that of their European colleagues.

While this was certainly an achievement in its own right, a very positive factor that contributed to this achievement was that we had very stable manpower.

Almost zero attrition, particularly in the manufacturing division. This helped us save in making repeated recruitment and repeated counselling on cleanliness. This also helped us achieve our goal of having a work culture and process that matched the Euro standards, as practised by the workforce at the parent company.

Activities handled at Noida plant:

Manufacturing wise, we do lot of activities in-house. We make our own PCBAs, and optical engines; we do the complete final assembly ourselves. In fact, this is the main differentiator. All the critical processes we want to do inhouse, we want to have our own process and standards. For some special nature of components where we feel there are competent players sitting outside– those things we source from outside.

There are more achievements to pride in. Being an Indian plant in and out, and manufacturing projectors for a particular segment for worldwide market is an incredible thing. Our PCBA line where we make boards for the most demanding industry worldwide is another. The standards are so stringent - even if a minute defect is found to be due to human mistake,it can lead to serious consequences - is another prideful achievement. In fact, achieving something is not that big compared to sustaining it, and building the ability to sustain it continuously. That we achieved this ability is incredible. India plant is the only facility for Barco Global for manufacturing of some particular market for the last 10

INSIGHT Systems Integration Asia June - July 2015

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years. More, we are not making the same products; we are making third or fourth generation products.

There was a lead-free campaign last decade. July 2006 was the cut-off date.

As per that, companies could not export to Europe any product containing more than the permissible limits of lead; while most companies took extension for complying with the regulation, our headquarters, having firmly committed to it, helped us bang on it before the date.

We do not think many of our competitors follow the same level of practices and processes. We have had instances where our work proved better than those known for professional competence and perfection.

Going green:

We are there too; but I honestly believe there is more for us to do. We have been constantly evolving on that and devising programmes towards sensitizing people on the imperatives of contributing towards eco-friendly environment in workplace and otherwise.

Look into the future:

My vision for this plant is to strengthen our professional competence in all the areas of our existence. Generically said, Indians’ days of being considered by global manufacturers as their preferred manufacturing location on sheer merits of cost advantage would not last long; they are rather running out fast. So, we need to strengthen our professional competence beyond this cost-effectiveness factor- in terms of not only product quality but also its manufacturing process and workplace environment that matches any international standard. We need to come out of the mindset that our cost-effectiveness will win the world; we

(L-R) Amit Jain, Deputy General Manager, Operations Barco, our own Ram Bhavanashi and Anurag Bansal, Manager-SMT, Operations., Barco

have to make products and solution that should meet, if not, surpass what the international market demands.

The main differentiator I want to keep for our plant here is that people should say they have a very professional and highly competent workforce in India and they can confidently manufacture their products here, instead of the feeling that they come here just because it’s cheaper to come here. Our plant should be known for its professional competence and highest quality manufacturing processes.

We have some time back started what we call ‘high-tech factory’ concept, wherein every year we keep aside some amount for upgrading our processes in line with the evolving manufacturing processes. For example, our board manufacturing line - whenever a board is found faulty, it has to go to repair, then to testing, after proving fully okay, then back to the main line. While this has been the practice for most manufacturers in India and they pay a tax too for that, we had been tagging the faulty board

The main differentiator I want to keep for our plant here is that people should say they have a very professional and highly competent workforce in India and they can confidently manufacture their products here, instead of the feeling that they come here just because it’s cheaper to come here.

‘Red’ and it goes through the circuit.

The sophistication that we have brought on is the replacement of paper tag with electronic tag. Every minute detail of the unit concerned is stored in that RFID tag.

One only needs to scan the tag to know what error occurred when and how, at what part of its making or running. More, these RFID tags are reusable, there is no room even for e-waste; it is both green and high-tech.

The purpose of doing this is that if we are making high-tech products, their making processes should also make people feel that they are in a high-tech environment.

Barco India’s contribution to Barco Global’s cause: Our value proposition to our parent company is the delivery of world-class products at comparatively lower cost.

Sleek organization:

Aah! Most organizations believe the quality control to be an overhead/ appraisal cost. Because you need a big work force if you have a lot of things to appraise. Our IQC department has just three people. Maintenance- we have just six people maintaining three big buildings. All the processes are running absolutely fine, the reason being that we never miss a preventive schedule. www.barco.com

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CLIENT SPEAK Systems Integration Asia June - July 2015

Monitoring ‘Power To All’ Through Technology Embracement Power Grid Corporation of India Limited (PGCIL) – one of the largest power transmission utilities in the world – plays a vital role in the country’s power sector. As the country’s Central Transmission Utility (CTU), it is tasked with developing a robust Integrated National Grid and associating in the flagship programme of Govt. of India to provide power for all.

As part of the ambitious programme, it has created a worldclass monitoring facility – the National Transmission Asset Monitoring Centre (NTAMC) – that facilitates monitoring power transmission situation from across the country on a real-time basis. A technological brilliance in its own right, the NTAMC is one prideful achievement of the PGCIL. SI Asia talked to R P Sasmal, Director-Operations, at the PGCIL, to know their vision and mission with technology.

SI Asia: What kind of AV deployment has been done at your facility?

SASMAL: We are currently operating a total of 186 substations across the country, with one substation roughly at every 150 km distance. About 50 per cent of the power generated in the country is being distributed through these substations throughout to the nook and corner of the country. To be able to monitor the functioning of all these substations on a real-time basis so that any problem situation can be addressed with minimum or no time lost, we need a well-defined facility that can display the entire on-line display system, and a communication network.

On the other hand, we have several projects worth thousands of crores of Rupees to be implemented over the next five years’ time. If you look at our present capital expenditure, it is over 20,000 crores INR (over US$ 3.3 billion). With such a scale of investment and projects at hand, we need a perfect planning both on paper and field to ensure that money is spent judiciously and projects are completed in time. This requires a constant and efficient interaction between the top management and field staff; however, it sounds very illogical in this age to make people physically travel in multiple directions for these interactions. The best way is to have one central monitoring facility that can

facilitate not only interactions amongst the field personnel and the management but also keep a real-time update of the proceedings relating to the functioning of existing substations as well as ongoing projects.

It was with this vision we have conceptualized and created the National Transmission Asset Monitoring Centre (NTAMC) facility which is one of its kind in the world. Now, one among the many features of this facility is that all the 186 substations in the country are being monitored from a single location at Manesar, the base of NTAMC. Another important aspect is that almost all the substations are running ‘unmanned’ as far as the operations are concerned which is a huge task considering the very size and scale of the operations.

Integration of these substations with the central location is characterized by a fool-proof fibre optic communication system; this communication system is also augmented by HD cameras installed at all the substations to capture videos of their 24/7 operations. All these feeds are custom-displayed at the Manesar facility should there be any requirement to troubleshoot a problem situation at any given substation. In about a few months’ time, all the substations would be interconnected with the Manesar facility.

That the substations are unmanned in operations, their networking with the central monitoring facility is very

critical. We have therefore provided video-conferencing facility so that people from these locations can interact with the central facility 24/7. We have maintenance staff of about 700 employees working in the substations; they can listen and interact with the management and troubleshoot teams at Manesar through video-conferencing.

SI Asia: What was the vision behind such an ambitious initiative?

SASMAL: The main objective was to establish an efficient communication mechanism amongst the field staff, monitoring personnel, and the managerial executives. This communication mechanism in turn is intended to ensure smooth functioning of the existing substations and timely and successful execution of on-going projects. The functionalities that come into play as part of this major task include real-time online data availability so that the central facility and the managerial people can access every minute detail of the power supply mechanism.

SI Asia: How has the deployment helped your cause?

SASMAL: We have a CAPEX programme of over US$ 3.3 billion every year, we have to meet that; along with that, we have to make our capitalization programme on how we can get our

CLIENT SPEAK Systems Integration Asia June - July 2015

investment back. So, having this facility in place has helped us minimise our spending on travelling, improve our communication process, contributed to the due diligence processes, and facilitated an overall optimization of our potential and performance.

SI Asia: What kind of teams do you have onboard for this technology deployment?

SASMAL: We have an engineering department that looks after all the engineering-related tasks; we specify the functional requirements. What we need to know is what technology is available in the market, and how does it perform or help us do a better job.

We have a two-stage procurement process in place for projects with state-of-the-art technology. First, we call for bidders with competencethey demonstrate their solutions and competence, their credentials etc. These bidders are evaluated based on the proposals and presentations they made before the final BoQ is made. Depending upon the requirement –from case to case – we may take a consultant on-board should it be felt necessary. Thanks to the oceanic information available from various sources, particularly the Internet, today most people are able to figure out what they need, and this applies to our organization also. Once we specify the functional requirements, the engineering department of the group concerned would try to evolve a design and go for bidders for supply of systems and integration of the same.

SI Asia: What kind of procedural processes you have in place for technology deployment?

SASMAL: As one of the primary functions, we follow a certain set of pre-decided standards for equipment.

The equipment or systems suggested by the solution provider must meet those standards before being accepted. We will also have in place an in-house project monitoring system that continuously monitors each project whether the products, systems and install process are meeting the specified standards or not.

SI Asia: As an End User, what is your biggest challenge with technology deployment?

SASMAL: Finding a right technology partner is one of the biggest challenges.

Given all the wealth of information, and knowledge about latest technology trends, we may not know who would be our best partner for a given situation.

It’s not only about mere getting in a solution but also ensuring that it performs well, and serviced well for intended results. That ours is a large corporation with different groups and diverse functionalities, the needs may be different from one to another and that makes the right technology partner very critical.

SI Asia: As a Technology User, what do you see as the best part of deployment at the NTAMC facility?

SASMAL: In any power supply system – whether it is grid, or substation, or control centre – monitoring precision of the operational efficiency is the most critical component. We need to monitor every minute aspect of the operations to ensure it is smooth and performing 100 per cent. Any aberration should be detected immediately; an alarm raised and addressed quickly. To meet this requirement, we have installed the LED panels at the NTAMC facility to display any alarm situation from across the network so that it gets immediate attention and set for quick rectification.

Similar is our video-conferencing system that connects most of our substations with the headquarters. It is also intended to monitor our on-going project sites.

This will enable us to have regular interaction with the personnel on the field, monitoring and admin staff so that decision making and implementation becomes faster. That we have our own fibre-optic network, bandwidth is no issue; staff from any substation can instantly interact with the concerned higher-ups. So, these two systems make the most vital part of our technology deployment.

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SI Asia: For a Technology User like you, what's the most impressive technology today?

SASMAL: We feel the IP-based networking the most impressive. Having said that, one big concern is about the cyber security; while it is good to have a cutting-edge technology, we should not go to a level where the technology itself would give into security compromises.

Particularly in sectors like ours where one security breach can result in wide-spread chaos.

SI Asia: You chose Delta brand for the particular video wall display system. What made you go with them?

SASMAL: It was not we who chose Delta.

Like I said, we placed the functional requirements with the contractor who won the bid through due diligence, and it is they who presented us with detailed documentation on various solution providers. It is in that process, we found Delta solution meeting our specifications. That’s one. Two, they have given their solutions to us in the past, and our experience with them has been good - for performance, aftersales support etc., and three, their competence to execute the project in time. I think these factors are enough for us to decide on them.

In fact, we did not and do not want our project to linger on, consuming time and money; timely completion was far more important for us and that aspect has been good with Delta, besides the others.

More, what we feel happy about them is that certainly we cannot certify ourselves being fully abreast with latest technology. Being in close proximity to our physical location, Delta people visit us constantly, and update us on the latest solutions available, and how those solutions can help us get better, besides servicing our regular needs. www.powergridindia.com

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TECH TALK Systems Integration Asia June - July 2015

Networking For AV Professionals

by Roydon D’souza

I

n the early days of AV networking, when I was just starting out, both novice and experienced engineers were making the jump to computercontrolled AV equipment. My new laptop – while it was a lumpen thing – made me feel 10 feet tall with its serial port as standard and Ethernet on a PCMCIA expansion card. What a world it opened up!

It seemed everyone wanted to learn about these powerful new tools, these

devices with few controls and strange connectors. At the start of one training session, a self-professed “old analogue guy” turned to me and said: “OK, I accept that AV systems will henceforth be controlled by glorified electronic type-writers. So let’s see how it’s done.”

How we marveled as we drag-anddropped an entire rack of outboard into a single box! Even more impressive were the developments in media transport and system control. A whole lot could be achieved over a cable costing peanuts,

Roydon D’souza is based in Mumbai and brings almost 20 years of audio experience to Biamp’s application engineering team.

and with scalability we had never seen before.

A decade or so later, Ethernet has become an indispensable technology in every little corner of our industry, and the modern AV engineer needs solid IT skills. There are a multitude of standards in the networking world (no need for me to retell the old ‘standards’ joke). Fortunately, at this point in AV it is enough to know about Ethernet and Internet Protocol.

Ethernet is governed by the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE). Ethernet’s hardware is defined by their standards, as are the lowlevel software protocols managing the interactions across it. The hardware and protocols are often referred to as Layers 1 and 2 respectively (see tip 3).

Internet Protocol (IP) is the primary software standard relevant at the next level of networking, Layer 3, and is governed by the Internet Engineering Task Force (IETF). As well as making it easier for software applications to communicate across networks, IP addresses help facilitate larger and more complex networks. Including, not surprisingly, the Internet itself.

So, without further ado, here are my top ten networking tips for the AV professional

1. Understand How IP Addressing Works

IP addresses are the soft-coded network addresses, which can be allocated and changed as resources dictate. Much like postal addresses, IP addresses contain ‘how to get there’ information, and the key lies in how they are divided into two portions by the subnet mask: Host (name) and Network (location). If you change just the subnet mask, its corresponding IP address will represent a completely different name and location.

Only by referring to the subnet mask can you understand how two given IP addresses might communicate. Like

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results. Whether for Cat-5e/Cat-6 or fiber-optic, any decent cabling contractor will gladly provide documented proof of their workmanship.

7. Treat Your Network Hardware Like Your AV Equipment

Choose it well: Know the features you want and remember you get what you pay for.

Use it well: Familiarize yourself with the user interface and how to implement key features.

8. Divide and Conquer

Laurel and Hardy, each depends on the other for context. Learning how will take a little time, but perseverance will pay dividends in your confidence and expertise.

For this article I am referring to IP version 4 (IPv4) addresses only. The 4.3 billion possible IPv4 addresses were exhausted in 2011, leading to IPv6 addresses. We can ignore IPv6 for now, because in AV we usually use IETF-defined private IPv4 addresses (e.g. 192.168.xxx.xxx).

2. Behind Every Good IP Address, Lies a Good MAC Address

The Media Access Control (MAC) address is the globally unique ‘name’ of a device, and every networked device has at least one. Hard-coded in manufacturing they are not easy to change, and MACs are crucial at the Ethernet level, but not usually our concern.

3. How The 7-layer OSI Model Can Help You

A passing familiarity with this conceptual model – particularly layers 1, 2 and 3 – will give you a framework of enormous value. To it, you can attach terms like Ethernet, NIC, Switch, Router, MAC, IP and more, and better understand how they work together. It also provides context for AV transport protocols:

how each must be considered, utilized, controlled, and supported.

4. Buy an RJ45 Crimping Tool That you Will Never Use

Ethernet’s most common infrastructure is 8-core Category-5e or Category-6 cable, terminated with RJ45 connectors.

Pre-made Cat-5e/Cat-6 cables are cheap and reliable, while making your own is time-consuming and the results are often unsatisfactory. A crimping tool can save the day, but a failure could cost your reputation. Only ‘roll your own’ when your job depends on it.

5. Are We Analyzing or Merely Testing?

There is a world of difference between a cable tester and a cable analyzer, and network cable must meet strictly defined performance characteristics. A cable tester only checks whether the 8 wires are unbroken. The sophisticated cable analyzer tests whether the 8 wires are working together to meet specification, thus validating its use in an Ethernet network. Invest in one of these if you pull and terminate your own cables – they are well worth their hefty price-tag.

6. Learn to Love the Red Tape

Saving test results to file is perhaps a cable analyzer’s best trick. Never be concerned about requesting these

Virtual Local Area Networks (VLANs) should be the first feature you learn to implement. They have a multitude of applications; the very least is separating media transporting devices from system control devices.

9. Would You Leave Your Front Door Open?

Security should be considered in every installation. From simply locking the rackroom to advanced security management, the lengths you go to will depend on the circumstance. It is not simply about malicious attacks – always consider the question, “what does this button do?”

The casual intruder, probably just looking to charge a phone, could potentially wreak havoc.

10. Further Networking Outside the Digital Domain

Talk amongst your friends, acquaintances, and colleagues (see what I did there?). We can all learn from each other’s successes and failures, and some of these tips are pure gold.

As an AV engineer who truly enjoys setting up AV systems, it can sometimes feel frustrating when your work appears to be 50% IT. An understanding of networking’s fundamentals can make the difference between “losing half a day” before you have even powered up the projector and a quick and easy setup that leaves you free to concentrate on the fun stuff. www.biamp.com

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USER PERSPECTIVE Systems Integration Asia June - July 2015

By Shireen Ho

Embracing Technology For Future Teaching In partnership with Samsung, Singapore's Nanyang Polytechnic enhances collaborative learning in pilot classroom.

W

hat was your learning experience like back in your school days? Have you lived through the days of chalky blackboards or had the chance to witness its transition to modern-day whiteboard teaching?

But whether it is the blackboards, whiteboards or overhead projectors (OHPs) that has accompanied you through those youthful days, digital technology was definitely something that was only scarcely involved.

Fast-forward to present day, that is no longer the case. Though digital projectors still form an integral part of classroom teaching, some education institutions are already adopting interactive panels and tablets to enhance the learning experience. One example of such institute would be Nanyang Polytechnic (NYP), in Singapore.

The Story Begins...

Located in the Central North of Singapore, the established polytechnic is known to be an early technology adopter in its teaching pedagogy. So when an opportunity presented itself in 2012 during the visit of a top Samsung executive, the senior management of NYP jumped at it.

“They were talking about how to use technology to excite students and to help them in learning,” recalled Dr Choo Keng Wah, Deputy Director (BioElectronics), School of Engineering, Nanyang Polytechnic. “So when we learned that Samsung has quite advanced technology in LCD screens, interactive panels and tablets, we

went through a brainstorming session to discuss how to leverage on the technology to enhance our existing teaching and learning practices.”

The staff team from NYP's School of Engineering then presented their ideas to Samsung to explore and elaborate how technology can be used in NYP to enhance collaborative learning.

At NYP, collaborative learning is one of the key concepts of the institution's teaching and learning mission. For the school, collaborative learning encompasses problem solving, critical thinking, team work and communication skills – where each of it is an important 21st century skill that the education institution hopes to instill in their students.

After pitching to Samsung in the hopes of incorporating technology to enhance the student's learning experience, NYP successfully sold the idea and a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) was signed in March 2013.

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Bringing Technology Expertise

In the MOU, one of the key items discussed was the set up of a collaborative learning classroom in the School of Engineering. Designed for lecturers to try out new teaching methods and for students to experience collaborative technology, the collaborative learning classroom was completed at the end of 2013.

For the pilot classroom, Samsung had co-funded one 75” Samsung SMART Signage Display with interactive touch overlay, four 55” Samsung SMART Signage Displays with interactive touch overlay and 30 Samsung Galaxy Note 10.1 tablets and notebooks.

Being quite the comprehensive setup, was there any issue during the installation in terms of the physical space, for example, we enquired.

“As the space was given to us from the very beginning, we knew the amount of space we had to do this,” said Dr Choo. “We were involved closely in this project so everything from specification, the design, the layout - were all done by us before we tendered it out for installation.”

“Of course, we also had help from Samsung whom we had consulted with on the design of the classroom,

so we had a few months to fine tune the installation before we commenced.

Thereafter, the installation rolled out without any issue.”

etc.” said Dr Choo. “From there, our manager in charge of the lab, conducted further traning sessions for the rest of the lecturers.”

Training The End-Users

So how was the training sessions for the lecturers conducted? We asked Kwek Siew Wee, Manager of School of Engineering of NYP.

Though the classroom was completed and ready by 2014, Samsung and NYP had one more challenge to overcome before they could finally get the students in to experience it.

“Deploying technologies in the learning space is only a start.” said Andy Sim, Vice President and Head of Enterprise Business, Samsung Electronics Singapore. “The key challenge lies in ensuring that there are proper resources and strong supporting eco-system in place for the student and teacher community to harness the full benefits of these technologies. This includes having rich content, dedicated training and learning resources, as well as learning analytics/mechanisms for continuous optimization of how we can use technologies to make education more interactive and effective.”

Having said that, Samsung assisted NYP by sending its own technology experts to conduct the train-the-trainers session.

Samsung experts helped train the NYP representative who then transferred the skills and knowledge to other lecturers who are eventually the end-users.

“During the trainers session with Samsung, the experts shared the technology on how to use the tablets, the interactive whiteboard, LCD screens

“We found out that when lecturers are not comfortable with new technology, they are unlikely to try to do something different.” said Siew Wee. “So to facilitate a better training experience, we conducted lessons in the form of small group discussions where the lecturers can share their ideas.”

“This worked well for us and we managed to train quite a number of lecturers within six months and by 2014, there are already lecturers trying out new teaching pedagogies in this new learning space.”

Content & Lesson Structure Matters Too

Besides technology, the education institution also reiterated that teaching pedagogy is also key. While technology gave the lecturers alternative teaching methods, the way learning activities are designed are still based on the nature of the discipline that is taught to students and the outcome that they want to achieve.

“It was only after we decided on the learning pedagogy that we began to look for what technology in the lab

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USER PERSPECTIVE Systems Integration Asia June - July 2015

This education installation was beyond just an installation.

It champions a new way for students and lecturers to engage and learn from each other. It is also a space where students can apply their academic learning such as developing applications on Samsung devices to industry specific scenarios like retail solutions to improve customer experience or business workflow.

- Andy Sim, Vice President and Head, Enterprise Business, Samsung Electronics Singapore we can use to facilitate the learning,” explained Siew Wee. “So we advise our lecturers that if you want to conduct lessons within that kind of environment (the Samsung lab), you must design your learning activity accordingly, because there is no point in delivering lessons that require individual work when the setup here is to facilitate students working in groups.”

“So lecturers generally take a few minutes at the beginning of the lesson to introduce the lesson objective to the students. Then they will assign groups, give out tasks and get the students to use the technology available to complete them.”

In terms of learning materials used, lecturers are encouraged to use whatever materials they are comfortable with as long as it can be run on the Android platform. Often, materials such as powerpoint slides and media playback play a huge part. Interestingly, apps such as the polling app is also frequently used by students to express their views and opinions. In addition, the recording function in the tablets also proved to be useful for lecturers to understand the student's step-by-step thought process in resolving, a math problem, for example.

here is to train sufficient lecturers who are good in the use of technology and who are also willing to pass on this knowledge to other lecturers so that more can adopt this.”

To encourage this, NYP has a sharing platform set up where lecturers can share their views and thoughts on new teaching methods. Using the collaborative classroom as an example, the platform will help other lecturers understand how and what to do for such interactive lessons. At the same time, staff trainings are also frequently held in the collaborative classroom to let the lecturers experience what is collaborative learning in order to understand it.

Moving On... Classrooms Of The Future

So what's next for NYP and Samsung?

Giving his thoughts from the technology point of view, Dr Choo spoke of a new technology that Samsung had demonstrated to them.

“One of the new technologies coming from them is actually virtual reality.” said Dr Choo. “We found the concept very interesting, albeit the gear was a little heavy and the content might not be easily available.”

It took time for the lecturers to equip themselves to confidently handle the new technology. Some lecturers also gave feedback of experiencing small technical glitches due to unfamiliarity.

Hence, encouraging adoption of the new technology was one of key challenges NYP faced.

“But moving forward we hope to develop content together with Samsung in the area of virtual reality so that students can see and experience things that is hardly available in real life, such as looking inside of the human body, highrisk science experiments that we are not able to conduct in-house, etc. With the power of VR, that's something we can explore.”

“It is about getting them to use the technology, and not be afraid of them,” commented Dr Choo. “So the challenge

From the pedagogy's perspective, Siew Wee explained as the profile of student changes, education institutions have

Getting The Users To Use It

to change the way they teach too. By incorporating technology, student's learning experience is enhanced and this helps to prepare them for the corporate world.

“In terms of costs, it's not that easy.

Imagine if all of our tutorial rooms are equipped with one big panel, 4 small panels plus the tablets and all, it's going to cost a lot,” said Siew Wee. “Duplicating such setup is not easy, and while cost is a concern, space is also a concern.”

But most importantly, did NYP feel that the installation helped them achieve their teaching objective?

“Yes, the tablet and interactive whiteboard really helps to facilitate the collaborative learning environment.

Especially for those who are tech-savvy, it became a really good tool for them,” remarked Siew Wee. On making the collaborative lab a reality, Dr Choo expressed, “The NYP-Samsung Collaborative Learning Centre plays a key role in our continued effort to enhance the teaching and learning experience by using infocomm technology. We look forward to enhance our partnership with Samsung on our journey of ICT enhanced teaching and learning.” www.nyp.edu.sg www.samsung.com/sg/business

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AUSTRALIA

Adelaide Christian Centre Installs Electro-Voice Speaker Systems

EV-Innovation products offer a clear and even sound coverage.

centre. The installed system incorporated a cluster of an EVF-2151D sub with two full range EVF-1122S/94 speakers used as mid-highs providing a 90 x 40 degree coverage pattern on either side. CPS 2.12 and CPS 2.6 Contractor Precision Series power amplifiers were utilised to power the cluster, while a DC-One sound system processor was installed in the rack to control the loudspeakers.

From all reports, the improved sonic performance of the system has gained positive response from the congregation at the church. The intelligibility at the back and sides of the church is high and the angles of the loudspeaker positions and their coverage have drastically reduced reflection off the glass wall.

T

he Adelaide Christian Centre, or Sturt Street Church as it is more commonly known, is part of the CRC Churches International Group.

Located in the heart of Adelaide, the Church was established in 1945

by Pastor Leo Harris. From humble beginnings, it grew across South Australia, other Australian states, and then to international missions. At the time of Pastor Harris’ passing in the late 70’s, the group was the largest Pentecostal Church in Australia.

The Church has a strong musical tradition with many prominent artists gracing its stage. In recent times a decision was made to upgrade an aging sound system at the Sturt Street location. Pastor Ben Bonython was involved in the process and selected Total Electronic Contracting (TEC) to provide a suitable solution.

“The Sturt Street Church was an interesting challenge. The ‘fan’ shaped layout and glass windows along the back were two critical factors,” said Keith Ellison, Sales Engineer from TEC. “The other main consideration was the size of the budget. We had to come up with

something that filled a medium-sized church with quality sound and did not break the bank.”

After inspecting the site with Phill Webb, EV Sales Engineer with Bosch Communications, Keith proposed an FOH system built around front-loaded EVF speaker systems from the EVInnovation family. Having used the versatile EV-Innovation products on many occasions, Keith was confident the result would be excellent.

The new EVF system replaced groundstacked boxes on either side of the platform against the side walls.

According to Phill Webb, “the old system provided a very uneven coverage of the room, particularly in the centre, and being mounted quite low provided a degree of ‘slap’ off the rear glass wall at varying intervals.”

The new system saw a central cluster suspended from the roof in the centre of the room just forward of the platform.

This location allowed for the system to be angled down to reduce reflections of the rear glass wall and to provide more even coverage across the room while providing improved coverage in the

“We are very pleased with the end result,” said Pastor Ben Bonython. “The band has noticed the big difference, as have the pastors, support staff, and most of all, the congregation. The sound is clear and carries well to all parts of the floor. Big thanks go to TEC who we found to be accommodating and super helpful, willing to assist us and work with us throughout the entire process.” www.sturtstreet.com www.tecsa.com.au asia.boschsecurity.com

PROJECT FACTFILE • Client: Adelaide Christian Centre • Location: Adelaide, Australia • Segment: Houses of Worship • Task: To upgrade an aging sound system • Key solutions installed: Electro-Voice EVF-2151D sub, EVF-1122S/94 mid-highs, CPS 2.12 and CPS 2.6 Contractor Precision Series power amplifiers and DC-One sound system processor.

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INSTALLATIONS Systems Integration Asia June - July 2015

KAZAKHSTAN

Kazak Crafts A New Vision With ICT

Polymedia sets up a massive Situation Center in the region’s capital Kyzylorda

By Ram Bhavanashi

Project Purpose:

Providing detailed vision about situation in the region and comparison analysis with other regions of the Republic as well as information support for making management decisions.

Tasks for the Situation Center:

• Monitoring, analyzing and forecasting socio-economic development of Kyzylorda region • Infrastructure and investment projects monitoring • Estimating security and risk management at economic, financial, demographic, industry, information and other sectors • Socio-political situation analysis • Strategic and operative planning of Kyzylorda region • Preparing and examining decision options on current situations • Providing information support for corporate decision making • Communicating decisions to executives and monitoring them

Situation Center Main Hall

Nations harnessing information and communication technologies for diverse purposes, and solution providers setting up operational centres for such requirements is nothing new; but this one is certainly one. The Kyzylorda Akymmat Situation Center – as it is called in the Central Asian country of Kazakhstan – is a sort of revelation in terms of using ICT for mapping a region’s development parameters.

Moscow-based integrated ICT solutions provider Polymedia had – by virtue of the region’s affinity and alignment with the Russian geography – the prestigious honour of creating the ambitious, first-ofits-kind facility. An SI Asia exclusive:

T

he Kyzylorda oblast (region/ province) is a part of Republic of Kazakhstan –located in the southern part of the country, eastward of Aral Sea – is known for many things.

A plethora of high value historical and archaeological sites and monuments, including those that dotted the famed Silk Route, oil and natural gas industry, uranium mining, and, of course, the famous Baikonur spaceport.

On the tangent, it is marked by sharply continental and exceptionally arid climate with long hot and rainless summers. It’s also been the place for one of 20th century’s greatest ecological disasters - till the World Bank fundedAral Sea Rescue project was initiated.

The second stage of raising water level

at North Aral Sea is hoped to help the city of Aralsk regain its sea port status, besides restoring the world’s fourth largest lake system at Syr Darya river estuary.

Administratively too, the region is marked by vast geographical distribution of cities ant their remoteness from regional centers.

It was apparently in this backdrop that the Kazakh government decided to have a well-defined structure of technology tools that could help map and manage its resources and growth indices. The result is the implementation of the Situation Center (SC) for akkymat of Kyzylorda region (local government).

INSTALLATIONS Systems Integration Asia June - July 2015

“The client’s main purpose was to increase efficiency of the region management using ICT and analysing and modeling situations.

Presenting data analysis together with IP-cameras or videoconference gave a new level of understanding the situation in the region."

- Elena Novikova, CEO of Polymedia.

“The client’s main purpose was to increase efficiency of the region management using ICT and analysing and modeling situations,” explains Elena Novikova, CEO of Polymedia. “To fulfill this task, all the data regarding the region - finances, economy, operation, investments, mass media analysis was to be available any moment sought,” she elaborates.

According to her, the client also wanted to make sure that they control all the tasks the Governor assigned the regional government and heads of the districts to do, and estimate effectiveness of the government through video-conferencing.

One more important task was to monitor the infrastructure projects using IPvideo cameras at the construction sites.

“Presenting data analysis together with IP-cameras or videoconference gave a new level of understanding the situation in the region,” explains the Polymedia chief.

Polymedia was taken onboard the project as General Contactor responsible for all the parameters - time, engineering solution and implementation the information analysis systems.

The Project Plan

Project consists of two parts- hardware and software implementation. The hardware part comprises the SC Main Hall, Analytics’ Hall, Operator’s Room and Server Room. In addition,

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a videoconference system has been implemented connecting the SC with seven regions of Kyzylorda oblast (province) covering a distance up to 500 km from the SC.

akkymat. The SC is operated by as many as 21 employees including technicians and analysts trained by Polymedia.

The SC facility includes among others a mobile component with Polycase workstation and a satellite communication terminal providing hot link communication in emergency situations. IP cameras integrated with a situation hall have been deployed at most important building sites that allow monitoring local situation in real time.

The Main Hall is the primary facility of the SC where important managerial decisions are deliberated. It comprises a meeting desk for eleven seats – ten for delegates and one for the Chair – each of which is equipped with 17” ArthurHolm motorized display that function both as a repeater screen or a full featured PC. The displays are centrally managed by an operator by means of integrated control system.

All working places at the meeting table are furnished with personal consoles of Bosch congress system with simultaneous interpreting channel selector. The devices are neatly built in the table thus providing maximum functionality without obstructing free space for paper work.

The software part, on the other hand includes Information Analysis System (IAS) developed and integrated with information systems used at the regional

The Kyzylorda Akkymat Situation Center install won the prestigious ProIntegration Award, a Russian national prize given to projects in the field of audio visual equipment and systems integration.

The Situation Center (SC) Main Hall

The install here also features four high resolution cameras with automatic guidance and used for logging, videoconference and surveillance functions. Further, the meeting desk is equipped with an interactive rostrum with a built-in congress system clicker and a 22” interactive tablet that provides for holding and graphically commenting on presentations as well as other materials displayed on the video wall.

55" Repeater Displays

A hallmark of the install as a whole, and this Main Hall is the video wall, designed

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INSTALLATIONS Systems Integration Asia June - July 2015

around Mitsubishi VS-70HEF projection cubes in 4x2 configuration. Front access to the video wall saves up to three square meters of room space. The video wall is characterized by its endurance of as many as 100,000 (approx.) running hours; high brightness up to 810Cd/m2 and a <2 mm bezel.

More, the Hall features three 55” repeater displays intended to show the same information as the video wall.

A simple and user-friendly Polywall visualization suite allows controlling information mapping at the video wall and displays.

An IR simultaneous interpreting system helps observers who don’t participate at meetings to better understand speeches at international events held at the SC. There is also an operator workstation designed to control visualization and an integrated control system interactive display.

Running in the backdrop, is a high tech acoustical facility including professional loudspeaker system powered by a Biamp Tesira digital platform and Extron power amplifiers and loudspeakers.

The Analysts’ room:

Analyst’s room is equipped with a video wall featuring Mitsubishi Electric LM55S1 thin frame displays in 4x2 configuration, and as many as 12 Arthur Holm analytic’s workplaces with a PC with two monitors

each as well as an operator workstation for preparing content for the video wall display that is identical in resolution, format and number of displays to the one installed in the SC Main Hall. To ease out service, the display modules are provided with front access.

Room sound system allows all in attendance to handle content and hear everything that goes on at the Main Hall.

Some desks at the hall are equipped with access doors to Extron interfaces meant for connecting mobile devices.

The Instrument room

The instrument room is done in two parts- a tight zone and an Interpreter Room. The tight zone comprises three racks of AV delivering functions of video switching; Polywall 5000 visualization system control; integrated system control and sound equipment. The Interpreter Room comprises two booths equipped with an interpreter console, a monitor showing an active camera video of a current speaker that allow observing events in the main hall and watching speaker gestures.

Elena reasons on choosing the set of brand equipment: they chose Mitsubishi Electric video cubes, which proved their quality as the best in a range of projects.

For a setting of high resolution, narrow bezel, and 24/7 operation for long longevity, only the 70HEF Mitsubishi FHD cubes were chosen as the only ones

having 16:9 format ratio. The solution allowed them to reach pixel-to-pixel resolution coincidence of the Main video wall, and the one in the Analyst’s Hall that featured the Mitsubishi LCD screens 55S1 FHD with 16:9 format ratio.

“It was to optimize the nomenclature of products as much as possible,” explains the Polymedia Chief. “We believe that the feature of high-level integrator is to be able to operate with lowest number of systems while designing a solution.

This approach helps us avoid problems during installation and commissioning,” she seeks to exemplify. “The Crestron Digital Media architecture allowed us to build a single subsystem switching audio, video and control signals, as well as to reduce the peripheral connections to one optical fiber.”

Besides all that, an InformationAnalytical System is being deployed in cooperation with the subcontractor Prognoz, and integrated with Kyzylorda akkymat. The IAS allows to dynamically monitor and visualize information.

A special software named Polywall was installed at SC for managing data visualization. It allows creating meeting scripts and configures information windows at SC Main Hall video wall- in tune with matters under discussions.

Custom-developed by Polymedia, the software plays an effective tool for visualization control, multipath meeting scripts as well as software and hardware in-process management.

When the SC implementation was presented to Prime Minister of Republic of Kazakhstan Karim Maseemov on 14 July 2014, layouts of three, five and eight windows were used with synchronous information display at personal workplaces, akkym workstation and monitors of meeting participantswhich according to the SI proved the competence of the solution, and the integrator as well.

The Project Challenges Analysts Room

An install of this nature – given the typical characteristics of the terrain, and project expectations – couldn’t have come without challenges. Physical

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Department at Polymedia. “Considering the scale of the project requirements, and ensuring that we met all that in a short span of time was indeed great; it does show the competence of Polymedia.” www.polymedia.ru www.mitsubishielectricdisplaysolutions.com

PROJECT FACTFILE

(L-R) CEO Polymedia Elena Novikova , Akkym Krymbek Kusherbaev, Deputy Akkym Hurzhan Alibaev, and CEO Polymedia Kazakhstan subsidiary Askar Khabibulin

location; extremely tight schedule; operating conditions owing to adjoining offices; coordinating with the subcontractor teams; and of course the network security all had put their share of challenges before the Integrator.

operators. The task was to transmit a picture from crowded places.

That the site is over 1,000 km from big cities complicated the installation process, especially with regard to deploying videoconference systems at local regions.

Says Askar Khabibullin, Polymedia’s CEO at Kazakhstan office: “AV market in Kazakhstan has grown noticeably in the last one year or so. I think Polymedia has contributed significantly to this development. A number of important AV projects made in Kazakhstan affect in the result- demand for control room, situation centers, multipurpose meeting rooms etc.”

“It was quite complicated from a technical point of view,” explains Elena.

“It was to be realized in the shortest possible time. It was the necessity to manage the IT project, and IT companies who worked as subcontractors.”

The Project USPs

The hallmark of this landmark project, according to the Integrator, was full automation of all subsystems. Using Crestron Digital Media allowed switching of all AV sources, Ethernet signals through one fiber cable. “It was the first time in Kazakhstan that a display source such as the newest 70HEF78 Mitsubishi rear projection cubes with 100,000 hours resource was deployed,” declares the Polymedia chief.

Also, there was the modular design Biamp audio processor with built-in noise and echo suppression. The system of HD video translation through mobile networks – LiveU-LU70 was used as a proven solution. It can transmit video with 720p resolution through local

“We brought in this new technology for the first time,” Elena reveals, “it’s a great experience.”

The Client's Take

The client is apparently a proud owner of a landmark project. The happiness comes out in their accolade. “The newly implemented Kyzylorda Akkymat Situation Center has no analogues in Republic of Kazakhstan. Due to its technical and information support the Situation Center will become a powerful tool for controlling and managing activities of our oblast daily living,” said R. Ormagambetov, Deputy Chief of Staff.

“We are highly impressed with the company's operational policies that provide the highest quality level of work, integrated approach and conformity of solutions it creates to social and economic requirements.”

“The project was indeed a great experience to us at Polymedia,” sums up Elena Vinokurtseva, Head of PR

• Project Name: Kyzylorda akkymat Situation Center (Kazakhstan) • Project Location: Kyzylorda (capital of Kzylorda region/province) • Project Owner: Kyzylorda akkymat administration, Republic of Kazakhstan • Project Segment: Government • Project Type: Integrated ICT • Project Management Consultant: Polymedia, LLC • Systems Integrator: PolymediaKazakhstan LLC • Subcontractor: Prognoz Company • Project Commenced on: January 5, 2014 • Project Implemented on: June 11, 2014 ……………………………..

• Project Objective: Improving the efficiency of Kyzylorda local government (akkymat) based on modern ICT ………………………………

Key Solutions Installed

• Mitsubishi 70” projection video module and 55” displays • Polymedia Video Wall Controller, Interactive Multifunctional Display, Video Conference Mobile Set, Script Visualization Control Subsystem • Minrray Video Conferencing cameras • Lifesize Video Conferencing subsystem and Electronic Archive Subsystem • Crestron Switching and Computer Subsystem • Biamp and Extron Acoustic Subsystems • Cisco Network Switch • Wacom Interactive tablet • Bosch Conference System • Arthur Holm Information Display Systems

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PHILIPPINES

NEC's Hiperwall Installed For Effective Monitoring ESCO integrates for Software MNC at Bonifacio Global City

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he client is a global company with a revenue of USD3.6 billion in fiscal 2014 with a workforce of 22,000 that serves customers in over 80 countries worldwide.

Their office at the Bonifacio Global City, Manila, which occupies 3 floors of ECO Tower is the nerve centre for the region, ensuring that all their offices in the region are running at their optimum. Providing software solutions and services for service providers in the communications, media and entertainment industry it is imperative that the back-end provided by the company is a seamless experience for their clients and that's where the Command Control Centre plays an integral role.

ESCO Philippines was called in to provide the AV solutions for the

company's Board room, training rooms, huddle areas and importantly their Command Control Centre. The rooms and huddle areas were installed with Samsung LCD monitors, Polycom HDX video conferencing solutions supported

by Extron ceiling speakers for sound reinforcement.

As for the Command Control Centre the client's objective was clear. They wanted a system that runs video over IP that “talks” to their redundancy servers based in their India office. “We needed a controller that can run on a IP bandwidth and the Hiperwall was the perfect fit to achieve their objective,” said Jeffrey Reyes, Regional Manager, ESCO Pte Ltd, Philippines.

need to use HDMI, VGA and DVI cables which would require conduits that may be large. The challenge would be in maintaining and managing the solutions.

“Because Hiperwall is software based, we are able to run everything with just CAT6 cables. Some of the sources come from other regions but because everything comes through the network it is easy to manage. Dealing with software is definitely easier than working with different hardware.”

Distinct Features

Jeffrey highlights that with a conventional set-up there would be a

The back room allows for easy maintenance of the displays

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A Polycom VC and 3 Polycom microphones together with Extron ceilng speakers enable two way communication between the CCC and the Server room in India

Jeffrey continues, “We discussed with the client and focused on their needs – the pain points that they needed to resolve. We brought up the differences between Traditional and IP Based solutions. Furthermore with Hiperwall it is more cost effective with less licence fees and simpler to expand.”

The Command Control Centre

The main function of the Command Centre is to monitor the optimal operations of the servers in India and to communicate with the maintenance team if something is noticed.

The NEC Hiperwall at the Command Centre is configured with 3 x 5 NEC 46” LED displays. The displays feature an ultra thin bezel of about 5mm combined. Hiperwall maximises to 1080p per screen. Each screen has a built-in computer that runs on Windows.

Additional space for more panels has already been taken into consideration within the wall should there be a need in the future to expand the Hiperwall. The space has been designed to ensure that the Hiperwall is easily viewable from the

tiered seating arrangement within the CCC. An integrated Polycom VC is installed at the top upper right hand side beside the Hiperwall so that the whole CCC is in view. Video-conferencing is streamed through the Hiperwall. Ceiling mounted Polycom microphones ensure that communications are picked up easily.

“To ensure clarity of voice pick-up, we had to work with the HVAC installers so as to ensure that the microphones are located in the optimum position,” said Jeffrey. Each Polycom microphone comes with three capsules thus making them omni-directional for easy capture of voice and altogether there are 3 microphones installed within the CCC. ClearOne DSP has been installed to suppress feedback and for echo cancellation and for sound reinforcement Extron ceiling speakers complemented with Extron amplifiers have been installed.

Reaffirming their satisfaction, a spokesperson from the client end adds, “Esco has been an important vendor for our new site. We have been working with them for almost 4 years and have always received seamless service from them. The CCC room setup in our office enables us to monitor our systems day in and day out. It was a smooth and hassle-free installation done by Esco. It's been more than 1 year since the solution has been installed and we hardly had any issues. Also if any issue was reported it was solved in no time. We appreciate the good work Esco is doing and they definitely know their job well.” www.esco.com.sg

Jeffrey concludes, “I feel that when more than 10 panels are required it makes

NEC's Hiperwall is a videowall and source management solution with animation capabilities. The recently released Hiperwall 3.0 version enables users to animate content elements just before delivering it to the display. By eliminating the need to render content in advance, costs associated with editing are eliminated while still making it possible to do ad hoc content changes faster.

Visual elements can instantly be replaced or reused at any time.

Hiperwall 3.0 brings enhanced control over content, which allows users to regulate when each element appears and disappears. Changing the position, size and rotation of any type of content, while specifying the duration of each transition is even easier. New visual effects include shading, transparency, mosaic as well as black and white features Hiperwall works on a Licence basis. The Control and Display Licences are always needed with the Optional Licences being the Sender, Streamer, Secondary Controller, Sender Extra Window and Streamer Extra Stream Licences. www.nec-display-solutions.com

sense going with an IP based solution compared to a traditional solution. The system at the client side has met their objectives and at the end of the day we as AV solution providers and integrators want to ensure that the client's experience is seamless and I believe we have achieved that.”

PROJECT FACTFILE • Client: Global Software Company • Location: Manila, Philippines • Segment: Corporate • Task: To install a monitoring system that runs on an IP backbone within their Command and Control Centre • Solutions Installed: - 15 x NEC 46” LED Panels - Hiperwall Software - Polycom VC and ceiling micropones - Extron ceiling speakers and amplifiers - ClearOne DSP

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INTERNATIONAL

High Fashion Retail Goes 'Intelligent' With Cenique Customer Analytics Helps Improve Targeted Marketing

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aunched in 2011, the Marie France Van Damme (MFVD) Luxury Resort Wear is a high fashion brand established by Marie France Van Damme. Defined by its quality craftsmanship and extensive selection of luxurious fabrics, the MFVD brand has quickly established itself in the fashion industry for its alluring pieces.

The Objective

With boutique stores spread across three regions, namely London, Hong Kong and Thailand, the fashion brand was seeking for a Digital Signage solution where they can centralise the management of content across three stores located

in different countries. The brand also wanted a plug-and-play solution that is easy to deploy and maintain by themselves.

can help them collect data from the 'offline' world so that they improve their marketing campaigns and strategy.

Besides promoting brand awareness, MFVD wanted their stores to be able to inform visiting customers of new arrivals and promotion through advertisements displayed on the in-store Digital Signage.

Through research, MFVD came upon Cenique's WiFi-enabled media player and audience metric analytics. Working together, the MFVD marketing team came up with ideas for the installation and was advised by Cenique to include the C410 media players in the set-up.

At the same time, in order to better engage customers who visit their stores, MFVD was also looking for a solution that can provide them with audience metrics and information. The marketing team of MFVD wanted a solution that

The Solution

One Cenique C410 media player is installed in each location, with a total of three being used for this cross-borders installation. Quoted as the next-

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generation Intelligent Digital Signage solution, the C410 media players is equipped with a Quad-Core 1.6 GHz processor which provides MFVD an excellent playback of 1080p HD digital media content in all three stores. Based on the popular Android OS designed for digital signage, the media player is also pre-loaded with Cenique's in-house audience metric analytics software, the IntelliSense 1.0.

As both a media player and an analytics device, the C410 media player offers MFVD a simple yet cost-effective means of measuring shopper engagement in the stores. Besides impression counts, the platform is also able to track viewers' gender, age range, time of day, time of week, as well as how long they were engaged with the display. Instantly available as a graph or chart report, the information can be easily obtained and used to aid in MFVD's marketing strategies and campaigns.

Key Challenge

When asked what is the key challenge faced during the installation, Cenique's Co-Founder & CEO, Shylesh Karuvath, remarked that the placement of the audience measurement sensor was crucial for the client. “As it needs to blend with the store's interior design, the camera used has to be inconspicuous.”

In addition, the client and team also had to make sure that a reliable WiFi infastructure is in place as the media

players run on wireless connectivity for content management and analytics audience metrics.

“The combination of digital signage and anonymous video analytics creates a one-two punch sequence that significantly improves the effectiveness of in-store advertising. By having the ability to measure the impact of individual ad campaigns, we are able to focus on the more effective ads, thus having a greater impact on the bottom line,” said Karuvath, on the key feature of this project.

Client Satisfaction

When asked how the installation helped the retailer to achieve its marketing goals, Simon Van Damme, MFVD's Marketing Manager, commented, “In-store Advertising is a great way of getting our message out to our customers in a very cost effective and timely way. The impact was noticed immediately as it influenced customer behaviour.”

“Coupling the media player with the IntelliSense Anonymous Video Analytics solution, it helps us understand shopper demographics and engagement in the store. I would highly recommend this implementation on top of the advertising program,” concluded Van Damme. www.cenique.com www.mariefrancevandamme.com

PROJECT FACTFILE • Client: Marie France Van Damme • Location: Hong Kong, Thailand, London • Segment: Retail • Task: To implement a Digital Signage solution which they can managed from one location, and at the same time measure and collect in-store audience metrics.

• Key solutions installed: Cenique C410 media players, IntelliSense 1.0

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INSTALLATIONS Systems Integration Asia June - July 2015

INDONESIA

Symetrix DSPs Leave No Stones Unturned At Balinese Hotel Complex PT Gracia Auvindo implements multiple SymNet Solus and Jupiter DSPs

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ro-audio distributor and systems integrator PT Gracia Auvindo has been making Symetrix digital signal processing technology a core part of its technical arsenal since it first started working with the brand in 2008. Now, in one of its most ambitious projects to date, the company has implemented multiple SymNet Solus open architecture and Jupiter fixed architecture DSPs at Marriott's Stones Hotel in the southern Balinese district of Kuta.

Hendra Halim, Technical Manager with PT Gracia Auvindo, observes that Symetrix equipment of one kind or another continues to make its way into many of the company’s fixed installation projects. “First of all, Symetrix DSPs are

easy to use and understand,” he says.

“Secondly, they offer very good quality at excellent price points. The result is that they naturally lend themselves to a wide variety of project types.”

It was therefore a “very quick decision” to implement Symetrix DSPs during a recent contract at the Stones hotel complex. PT Gracia Auvindo was required to provide high quality audio for speech and background music in three primary spaces: the restaurant/pool area, convention centre and meeting rooms.

In each case, the company opted for a powerful yet discreet and cost-efficient specification pairing Symetrix processors with Coda Audio loudspeakers and CAMCO amplifiers.

In the restaurant/pool area, a single Solus 8 (8in, 8out) device provides all necessary DSP for four separate areas: restaurant, deli, outdoor deck and swimming pool. The Solus 8 – used in conjunction with a single ARC-2e wall panel – guarantees ease of (re) configuration for a set-up that includes Coda Audio PW12 speakers, Camco Q-Power amplifiers and a Midas VENICE F16 console, among other equipment.

In the convention centre, three Jupiter app-based DSPs in an 8in, 8out configuration provide DSP for a trio of separate spaces. A Jupiter with 4ins and 4outs is also part of a design that allows the venue operators to operate the convention rooms separately or

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combine them into one large space – in which case a further Solus (8in, 8out) comes into its own for room combining functionality.

Five Jupiter DSPs with 12ins and 4outs have also been incorporated into the convention centre design, with audio reinforcement again courtesy of Coda Audio and CAMCO inventory that includes no fewer than 50 Coda D5 passive speakers.

Finally, six individual meeting rooms are handled with a Jupiter 8 in each space, whilst yet another Solus 8 serves as the room combining system. PT Gracia Auvindo has also furnished the venue with ARC-2e wall panels for readily accessible control.

Reflecting on the project – which was completed to the client’s satisfaction in

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the second half of last year – Halim says that, once again, the Symetrix DSPs have proven their worth. Solus, he notes, is “a really flexible and easy to use piece of kit. Then with the Jupiter you have the chance to use downloadable apps for so many different applications such as mixing, automixing, routing and loudspeaker management. It’s very versatile.”

Nearly seven years after PT Gracia Auvindo first started working with Symetrix, Halim also offers warm words for the company's support infrastructure.

“Both from Hock Thang in the region and Ryan Curtright in the US, we continue to receive terrific support whenever it’s needed,” he concludes. www.symetrix.co www.graciaauvindo.com

PROJECT FACTFILE • Client: Marriott's Stones Hotel • Location: Kuta district, Bali, Indonesia • Segment: Hospitality • Systems Integrator: PT Gracia Auvindo • Task: To provide high quality audio for speech and background music in three primary spaces: the restaurant/pool area, convention centre and meeting rooms.

• Key Solutions Installed: - Symetrix Solus Open Architecture DSPs - Symetrix Jupiter Fixed Architecture DSPs - Symetrix ARC-2e wall panels - Coda Audio PW12 and D5 speakers - CAMCO Amplifiers - Midas VENICE F16 console

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NEW ZEALAND

Matrox Extio KVM Extenders Help Power System Operators Monitor Electricity Transmission and Distribution Matrox solutions help secure computing assets and simplify maintenance while minimizing cabling to multi-monitor operator stations

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atrox Extio™ KVM extenders and Expanders have recently been installed in New Zealand’s National Control Centres which operate the National Grid power system. The electric utility installed Extio to simplify PC maintenance by isolating computers in a separate, secure environment, while Matrox’s unique remote graphics extension technology provides real-time control of keyboard, mouse and multidisplay operator consoles. Matrox Extio units are installed on all operator desks, with up to 18 displays per desk, allowing operators to monitor over 11,000 km (over 7,300 mi) of transmission lines.

extension solution was required to transmit keyboard, mouse, and video signals within the control centres. “Our main goal was to be able to house desktop PCs in a secure environment, physically separated from the end users and monitors,” said Andy Marsh, Project Manager at Transpower New Zealand Ltd. “This avoids the need to undertake system maintenance directly on/under operator desks, simplifying PC hardware replacement and other tasks.”

KVM Transmission

The winning extension solution would have to extend computer data and control to

New operator PCs needed to be installed in a separate location away from the operators’ desks and an

operator desks at varying distances, with a large number of displays, so cabling and multi-display support were important considerations when revamping the control rooms. System performance and reliability were also key, given the 24/7 operation of the nationwide power grid.

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discretely onto a support structure behind the operator displays and facilitated the installation of rise/fall desks. Meanwhile, all the workstations are stored in a dedicated rack within a secure and separate machine room.

A Control Room Transformed

Matrox Extio F2408’s cabling and performance meets Transpower requirements to reliably manage New Zealand’s electrical power system. Operators today work across productivity-enhancing, multi-monitor desks without the presence of noise and heat-emitting system equipment, while the centralization of assets enables IT staff to efficiently administer and maintain these.

“Our main goal was to be able to house desktop PCs in a secure environment, physically separated from the end users and monitors. This avoids the need to undertake system maintenance directly on/under operator desks, simplifying PC hardware replacement and other tasks.”

- Andy Marsh, Project Manager at Transpower New Zealand Ltd. Technology partner and value-added distributor WestconGroup suggested Matrox Extio F2408 fiber-optic KVM extenders supporting up to five USB 2.0 HIDs and up to four 2560x1600 displays by up to 1 km (3280 feet) from the host computer with no compression and no latency—all over a single fiber-optic cable. Additional monitor support is available with the optional Matrox Extio F2408E Expander unit to drive up to four more monitors from the same fiber-optic cable between operator and host PC system.

Maximum Workflow, Minimal Cabling Cabling complexity can be a big concern for major deployments.

Matrox Extio minimized the amount of cabling required for this installation in the National Grid operating centres— reducing the total cost of ownership

and dramatically simplifying system installation as well. Matrox Extio KVM extenders are designed to simplify cabling by extending multiple signals including up to 4 displays over a single dual-LC fiber-optic cable. A total of 8 displays can be supported over the same cable by daisy-chaining an Expander to the Extio unit. And if you run a second cable with an additional Extio and Expander pair, you can get a total of 16 displays from the same PC. This practical design was critical during the controlroom-wide deployment of the new remote, multi-monitor setups.

Now using a combination of Extio and Expander units, the National Grid operating centers feature operator desks with up to 18 Dell™ UltraSharp™ displays, at resolutions of 2560x1600 per display. Matrox Extio’s small footprint design allows for it to be mounted

“Matrox Extio KVM extenders allow desktop PCs to be located in a dedicated secure environment, simplifying desktop PC hardware replacement and allowing for the installation of rise/fall desks,” said Marsh.

“Operators haven’t noticed a difference over traditional graphics technology which was also a major consideration— the technology should be invisible.” www.matrox.com

PROJECT FACTFILE • Client: New Zealand’s National Control Centres • Location: New Zealand • Segment: Power • Technology Partner: WestconGroup • Task: To extend computer data and control to operator desks at varying distances, with a large number of displays, so cabling and multi-display support were important considerations when revamping the control rooms.

System performance and reliability were also key, given the 24/7 operation of the nationwide power grid.

• Key Solutions Installed: - Matrox Extio F2408 fiber-optic KVM extenders - Matrox Extio F2408E Expander unit

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VOICE BOX Systems Integration Asia June - July 2015

The Death And Rebirth Of AVB: How Time Sensitive Networking Is Paving The Way For New Opportunities In AV

By Graeme Harrison, Executive Vice President, Biamp Systems

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here’s been a lot of talk over the last several months about AVB and Time Sensitive Networking (TSN).

What is TSN, how do they differ, and really, what does it all mean to pro AV?

sensitive (or low latency) manner. The characteristics of TSN to deliver these are seen as key to the IoT evolution and meeting the transmission needs of multiple industries.

It’s pretty simply really: TSN is an open standard – which is new to pro AV – that may finally eliminate the time wasted on decisions around which protocol to use in an AV system. Simply put, it moves the conversation beyond which protocol to use, to a larger conversation around how to integrate all the various media and systems we use into one networked solution.

But what does IoT have to do with pro AV, and why should we care?

In 2004, the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE) started an Ethernet study group for AV streaming.

This became the Audio Video Bridging (AVB) Task Group that now serves four industries – professional AV, consumer electronics, automotive, and most recently the industrial control industry.

At the end of 2012 this task group was renamed Time Sensitive Networking (TSN) to reflect a more accurate focus for the expanded scope of their work.

To understand why TSN is important to pro AV, we have to take a step back and look at key companies – like Intel, Cisco, General Electric (GE), and National Instruments (NI) – whose job it is to support the development of products belonging to IoT (Internet of Things), and understand that TSN is viewed as enabling the technology that will be part of the ‘next big thing’ or the technological evolution for IoT.

The Case for TSN and How Pro AV Relates to IoT

Within today’s Ethernet technology, the ability to ensure timely arrival of data is hampered by two issues: speed and the order in which the data packets are received. TSN addresses these issues by providing synchronized, deterministic delivery of data packets in a time

The needs and expectations around audio and video are growing and evolving, demanding more capabilities including being able to connect more people through different means and devices. As AV solutions evolve, the expectations of what can be accomplished will continue to grow as well. With AV increasingly residing on the network, it becomes part of a larger IT ecosystem. The next natural step of the evolution is for pro AV to become part of IoT, which means playing nicely together on the network (not being a bandwidth hog, keeping data packets in precise order, and doing so in a timely fashion). This will enable a smoother transition to a truly integrated mixed-use network.

Since TSN is an open standard, it also removes commercial ownership from the development process. By eliminating sole source development and proprietary fees, it levels the playing field by allowing anyone access to the standards and the opportunity to develop new products that adhere to said standards.

History proves that having both an open standard and a group of interested parties committed to developing and promoting common

technologies, benefits everyone involved – from manufacturers to end users. Some successful examples include the DVD Forum for the unified DVD standard, the Wi-Fi Alliance for wireless networking standards, and now, the AVnu Alliance for the adoption of AVB/TSN standards.

The AVnu Alliance is a consortium of technology companies – from Intel and Cisco to BMW and Gibson – that cross the automotive, consumer, pro AV, and industrial markets. Its members develop and build products according to the open IEEE standards, with the overarching goal of interoperability.

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Through AVnu’s independent thirdparty testing and certification process, it guarantees that all certified products conform to the IEEE open standards for low-latency, time-synchronized, and deterministic delivery of data, and can operate with other manufacturers’ certified products in a mixed ecosystem.

This benefits the end user by allowing integrators to choose best-of-breed products without worrying whether the selected products will work together successfully or not.

The efforts from AVnu and its members are gaining speed and public support.

The recent appointment of Gary Stuebing – the manager of engineering, IoT standards at Cisco – and Kevin Stanton – senior principal engineer at Intel – as the president and chairman respectively of the AVnu Alliance board of directors, not only puts key industry people in decision making roles, but is a clear sign of public support and the importance of AVB/TSN.

Impact on the Pro AV Market IoT will bring a new level of interdependence between system solutions that will transcend how technology interacts — reshaping markets, creating new products, and redefining the processes that power today’s systems and products. In a similar spirit of evolution, TSN will open up what is possible within AV, enabling the precise management, control, and delivery of media across an integrated network. Through the adoption of the TSN protocols, system designers and engineers will be able to provide timecritical (deterministic) and guaranteedtime-arrival (synchronized) for data transmissions – an essential requirement for AV systems that stream different content to various locations at both ad hoc and predetermined times.

The most immediate impact, and one the AV industry regularly refers to, will be the necessity for TSN switches. Identical to AVB switches, companies like Cisco have already indicated their interest in this new hardware — a promising indicator that additional switches may become available in the not-too-distant future. The next impact is that TSN

The influence of IoT in all aspect of life

adopters will require smaller endpoints, which will bring lower-cost endpoints to the AV industry at a faster pace than traditionally seen. As TSN evolves, the AV marketplace can look forward to the possibility of completely new protocolbased technologies, leveraging benefits such as expanded channel count or the continued reduction of latency.

As a subset of standards within TSN, AVB continues to gain acceptance within the IT community and will benefit from future TSN developments. As more industries need – and take advantage of – highspeed, synchronized, deterministic, high channel count digital transmissions, the AV industry will expand into markets previously considered outside our typical arenas or areas of strength.

How to Prepare

As TSN continues to evolve, the protocol will likely embark on a series of revisions before it becomes the de facto standard. As this unfolds, the AV industry can anticipate an increase in the acceptance of networked media systems within IT departments, leading to

greater collaboration between the two disciplines. To prepare for this imminent development, AV integrators should adopt a change-based approach to their workflows if they have not already done so, since industry transformations will continue to occur rapidly as IoT developments advance. These opportunities can range from smarter building designs, to the increased efficiency of networked systems, to better energy sustainability via solutions that embrace the benefits of the Energy Efficient Internet (E3). In the meantime, AV industry professionals can confidently prepare for both the proliferation of new AVB/TSN switches and the ratification of time-sensitive IEEE specifications.

In short, AV specialists – whether an integrator or consultant – need to think outside the traditional AV universe, learn about what’s happening in other technology-based industries, and be open to an innovation-first philosophy that could streamline and unify the AV industry and the IT sector. www.biamp.com

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VOICE BOX Systems Integration Asia June - July 2015

Fuelling Collaboration And Innovation

by Mary Ann de Lares Norris, COO, Oblong Industries

Why Should We Care?

Recent research by Raconteur, entitled “Future of Work”, reveals interesting emerging trends in the way that bosses think about the business, digital and human capital strategies needed in order to manage change effectively and increase workforce performance.

According to the report, “profit is driven by creativity, innovation, and productivity, each of which relies on an engaged workforce motivated by their work environment.”

At ISE this year, there was a buzz on the show floor about a company called Oblong Industries and its collaborative solution, Mezzanine. Interestingly Oblong's Chief Scientist, John Underkoffler, designed the computer interfaces in the film Minority Report.

Mezzanine according to John, was Born in Academia, Pulled into Hollywood and is Now a Commercial Reality. Mary Ann de Lares Norris, COO of Oblong Industries also presented a paper about the Mezzanine solution at ISE. SI Asia is pleased to publish that presentation here.

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uch has been said regarding the benefits of collaboration in the workplace. Indeed, in order to achieve the best results for your business, you need a team of people that can effectively work together to share their ideas. Having teams in disparate geographical locations creates a challenge; how to collaborate effectively and productively? How to get real work done in today’s work environment where everyone is more mobile, teams are more distributed, and decision-making is more decentralized?

Businesses faced with the question – what are the changes that could have the biggest impact on your organisation’s profitability? – have time and again highlighted the challenges of being able to respond more rapidly to market opportunities, using and integrating technology better, utilizing existing talent more effectively and developing a stronger culture of innovation. [source: Future of Work, Raconteur] These are key challenges that highlight the benefits that effective collaboration can bring to a company’s bottom line.

Technology should be a facilitator, a way of engaging with your workforce, your customers, enabling growth and the ability to gain market share.

True Collaboration Engages The Workforce

In fact, effective collaboration is not just key to success, it’s critical. It can’t happen without the right environment, created with the right tools and the right access for team members to contribute, regardless of their location or device.

Unfortunately, many of the rooms, tools, and AV systems we use today fall short of our needs. We still operate in environments designed for presentation to the detriment of collaboration. Why be presented to, when it would be so much more compelling to actively participate?

Conventional video conferencing has been a critical enabler of collaboration thus far. Already there is a wide array of products focused on improving our abilities to see and hear one another or share a single screen. However, what’s been missing are tools and infrastructure to improve our abilities to work together in shared digital workspace.

Using & Integrating Available Technology Better

The majority of meeting rooms feature a single video display capable of viewing a single device, often displaying a single document or presentation. While this situation is extremely valuable for the sharing of information by a sole presenter, it has created adverse impacts. Presentation decks turn meeting participants into passive audiences and in many cases, presentation decks have become a proxy for actual work. Our digital workspaces should mirror the way we interact in the real world—and working together in real life is messy. We point at things, pick up papers, scribble notes on documents, push them across the table for other meeting attendees to review, etc.

Our current digital shared workspaces are just too constrained—you can’t get at that “magic moment” of team collaboration when you are focused on “passing the ball” to interact with the digital content.

Oblong’s Mezzanine™ is a nextgeneration, collaborative platform to enable users to connect, participate and contribute across a shared digital workspace in a natural and intuitive way. Mezzanine is a spatial, networked, multi-user, multi-machine, computing environment; the driving factor in more efficient, productive and compelling meetings. The Mezzanine system provides a common workspace for multiple participants to share their image, voice, devices, and data simultaneously. The ability to

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simultaneously view more than a single device alone is transformative.

As an example, a team may spend hours, if not days, collecting data and crafting a deck for a senior executive.

Inevitably, the executive may request a change or an opportunity to view additional background data. With only a presentation, and without the tools and data the team uses every day to do their work, the team’s ability to respond is mitigated and the cycle repeats itself as they collect the necessary information for the next meeting.

Developing A Stronger Culture Of Innovation

With Mezzanine, a team is no longer limited by funneling their expertise into a single document. They can bring their own devices, their data, their work - into a meeting session [BOYD]. Meetings become more productive and time spent creating and updating presentations or rehashing content can now be spent on meaningful work. As Ian Rogers, CEO of Beats Music knows, utilizing this futuristic approach to technology today, delivers real business benefits. A Mezzanine user, he comments: “When someone comes to your office to learn your vision of the future, its crucial they feel like they’ve walked into the future, not the past.” Beats Music deployment of this distributed collaboration has also meant that their teams have become closer, not in location, but in effectiveness and

productivity – the company has built Mezzanine facilities in Santa Monica and San Francisco locations and has certainly benefited from this approach to employee collaboration.

Improving in-room collaboration is critical, but true business innovation can happen when collaboration is empowered across geographically distributed teams. Multiple participants across multiple locations often need to see each other’s work simultaneously, and not waste time swapping cables or virtually exchanging access privileges to share desktops. Mezzanine’s workspace can be shared between four different locations and dozens of devices at once. Oblong call this experience Infopresence™.

The Mezzanine workspace is fully accessible to all participants Infopresence is not the mirroring of one workspace to other locations. Every individual and device is an equal citizen in an Infopresence session with full ability to command and contribute to a shared pane of glass. It’s a more dynamic and democratic way to connect and communicate.

Democratic Engagement

Oblong takes a fully holistic perspective to developing solutions to achieve the goal; considering people, technologies, and spaces, both real and virtual. It is this seamless blend of physical and digital

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environments which makes Mezzanine so compelling; giving users authentic democratic engagement – peer-to-peer collaboration – effectively accelerating a company’s ability to share content, boost productivity and unlock innovation.

Productivity Comparison

The potential to share and understand data, that directly affects the business is breath-taking, and is particularly appropriate for a wide variety of applications. From the finance department that needs a better understanding of the complexities of the engineering arm of a global power company, to the operations team based in Hong Kong that needs to understand the vision of the product designer team operating out of China or the US – the benefits are immense.

APAC Experience

Oblong is continuing to make headway in the AsiaPacific markets as can be seen in a recent project for the global creative agency network, Dentsu Aegis.

To enhance collaboration between its geographically diverse teams, the company has selected Mezzanine for installation in conference rooms and dedicated presentation spaces in its Singapore, New York and London offices.

Dentsu Aegis Network is a global media and digital marketing communications company with a network covering five continents, 24 time zones, 110 countries and employing 23,000 passionate people.

As Nigel Morris, CEO, Dentsu Aegis Network Americas & EMEA explains, Mezzanine is a key technology in ensuring the agency network remains on top: “As a digitally centric organization in a rapidly convergent world, we are passionate about harnessing the power of technology in order to offer outstanding creative and innovative solutions to our clients in real time. By working with Oblong to create a network of Mezzanine rooms within our global agency network, we are able to ensure our teams are able to deliver different and better solutions wherever and whenever in the world it is required.” www.oblong.com

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ON OUR WEB Systems Integration Asia June - July 2015

WWW.SYSTEMSINTEGRATIONASIA.COM Here is a pick of articles and interviews that you might have missed out from our WEB coverage.

W E B E XC L U S I V E I N T E RV I E W S

Martin Hayes, President & Managing Director of Bosch Southeast Asia spoke to us about Singapore's Smart Nation intiatives in which Bosch is involved.

Zytronic, a prominent developer of projected Captive Technology (PCTTM) recently announced the setting up of a new office in Taiwan. We spoke to Chris Su who heads the office about his responsibilities and plans for the region.

As many of you might already be aware, IHSE recently underwent a company restructure and expanded its activities in the Asia-Pacific market in response to high market demand in the region. We spoke to IHSE GmbH Asia Pacific's VP of Sales and General Manager, Terence Teng about the expanded operations and the future plans of the company.

Australia's Telstra is the proud owner of NanoLumen's revolutionary NanoSlim Engage display that takes pride of place at its new Customer Insigth Centre. This is the first installation of the NanoSlim in the world.

Sun Infonet has been busy integrating Shure conferencing solutions to the Indian Government from council chambers, convention centers to conference halls. Most recently the Karnataka Legislative Council's 104seat council hall has benefited from the Shure DIS DCS 6000 Digital Conference System.

I N S TA L L AT I O N S

GEMS Wellington Academy in Silicon Oasis, Dubai, UAE now proudly features a Prysm Cascade 190 collaboration video that is used for teaching, conferencing and entertainment.

See everything. Work anywhere.

A 360ยบ View of Operations.

Real-time Visual Collaboration.

Canvas is visual business intelligence. Share any source with

Collaborate like no one has ever collaborated before. With Canvas,

colleagues down the hall, across campus, or around the world. On the video wall, PCs, tablets and smartphones. Share live video, applications, data and more. From any location, at any time, on any device.

you can draw, annotate, and type directly on live video. Point out an area of interest, circle a person or object in motion, create a shared whiteboard.

Work in real time, solve problems, with one person or many.

JUPITER SYSTEMS

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WWW.JUPITER.COM

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+1 510.675.1000

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