If you grew up in Pro AV, you grew up on “best in breed.” The craft was picking the right display, switcher, DSP, mics, and camera, then knitting it together with equal parts engineering and stubbornness. Integrators built their reputations on knowing what played nicely together—and how to make mixed gear act like it came from one factory.

But the room didn’t really exist until a control system made it behave. Companies like Crestron and AMX weren’t accessories. They were the glue that turned a pile of parts into a single experience by handling power, switching, macros, UI, timing, and edge cases. That’s where bundling enters the story, because the old way came with a ritual we all treated as normal: staging.

From Custom to Repeatable SKUs

In the classic model, you staged the first room somewhere just to prove it actually worked. You confirmed that “Start Meeting” woke everything up in the right order, switched correctly, unmuted, and behaved predictably. Then you tweaked timing and logic, chased interop weirdness, and only after it was stable did you clone it across multiple locations.

This is something bundling is meant to replace. A modern bundle, done well, removes much of that burden. It is essentially staging performed in advance by the manufacturer(s), with interop testing, firmware alignment, and support playbooks sorted out before the kit ever hits a quote.

Bundles don’t eliminate commissioning, acoustics, mounting constraints, or network policy. But they can remove a big chunk of the “will these pieces behave together at all?” anxiety that used to consume days of staging time.

First came “good enough” off the shelf. Meeting rooms that once justified racks and touchpanels became a videobar, display, and cable. Standards improved. USB got easier. Customers got less tolerant of custom complexity.

Then, the market leaned hard into “single throat to choke.” One manufacturer, one stack, one support path. At scale, the appeal is obvious: fewer variables, fewer escalations, fewer finger-pointing calls.

Now, we’re in the next phase: bundling. And bundling has two distinct flavors that are easy to mix up.

Single Manufacturer Options

Bundling is not always a multi-vendor handshake. Sometimes a single manufacturer “bundles” its own products by creating a named room kit built from its own catalog or “room builder” software. It becomes a SKU, a recipe, and a supportable configuration. That brings genuine value, because it reduces decision fatigue and creates repeatable deployments.

There’s also a legitimate argument for choosing suppliers with a complete breadth of solutions. If you’re standardizing across dozens or hundreds of rooms, fewer vendors usually mean a shorter blame chain when something breaks.

A concrete example is Cisco’s direction in room systems. Cisco has increasingly connected codecs, cameras, microphones, and other room peripherals over Cat6, so the same cable can carry PoE, data, and control. When a design leans into an end-to-end ecosystem like that, cabling and integration can get dramatically simpler. You avoid piles of interface boxes that convert one thing into another, and every converter is a potential point of failure and a troubleshooting dead end.

Multi-Vendor Acceleration

The more nuanced flavor of bundling is multi-vendor: two (or more) manufacturers packaging a mixed solution and getting it validated, certified, and marketed as a cohesive kit. That’s the “rivals to roommates” story, because it forces competitors into something that looks a lot like cooperation. Multi-vendor bundles are the alternative path to single suppliers, as they try to deliver some of the single supplier benefits without forcing a single vendor stack.

This type of bundling is a response to pressure from multiple directions. Portfolio gaps are real. Certification has become a gate, especially in the Teams Rooms world, where a known configuration can reduce perceived risk and simplify procurement.

Support costs are a hidden driver, too: More permutations create more tickets, and bundles reduce the matrix. Bundles also help revenue and channel mechanics by cleaning up SKUs, simplifying quoting, and reducing competitive leakage.

Multi-vendor bundling is like best in breed wearing a safety helmet. Traditional best in breed puts validation burden on the integrator. Bundles shift some of that burden upstream. It’s the vendor saying, “We tested these together, we’ll stand behind the combination.”

There’s a clear uptick in multi-vendor collaboration bundles compared to even the recent past.

One example is Barco pairing ClickShare Hub with Sennheiser videobars as a Microsoft Teams Rooms certified bundle. A critical detail: This is Barco’s first certified videobar partner bundle for ClickShare Hub, not the end of the road. Barco has already signaled it’s working with additional videobar manufacturers on other partner bundles expected to become certified as well. (Editor's note: After this article was published, Barco announced a ClickShare Hub Core with Logitech MeetUp 2 wireless room bundle that's certified for Microsoft Teams.)

Another recent example is Jabra extending the multi-camera capabilities on its Android videobars by bundling with the Huddly Crew system. It’s not just a bundle for procurement. It’s a path for videobar-centric rooms to grow up into larger, more dynamic spaces without forcing a full rip-and-replace into traditional codec architectures.

Even display manufacturers have been getting into the bundling game, with LG packaging its displays with Jabra videobars as Teams certified “Express Install” kits.

Frenemies Break Bundles

Sometimes, however, multi-vendor bundles can work against the companies putting them together. A familiar pattern goes like this: A vendor has an incomplete room story, so it bundles with a partner to fill a gap. The kit gets marketed and pitched as stable. Then the vendor releases a product that directly competes with the partner’s contribution.

That’s when the customer asks: “So, what does that say about the bundle you sold me last year?”

There are many current examples of this pattern. Neat bundled its videobars with Shure ceiling microphones to modularly scale into larger-space designs. That partnership made sense. But now that Shure has introduced its own videobar that competes more directly with Neat in overlapping room categories, it’s fair to wonder how long the Shure–Neat bundle will last.

For any bundle, the question to ask is whether it survives new competition between the partners. Technically, probably. Whether such bundles survive commercially and politically is the real question.

When yesterday’s partner becomes today’s competitor, relationships can fracture over account control, deal registration, channel incentives, certification priority, roadmap alignment, and who gets top billing. That’s the real risk behind any bundled solution.

Bundles are often born out of necessity. They can be undone by strategy. And when a partnership breaks, the collateral damage isn’t just a discontinued SKU. It’s confusion in the field, uncertainty for integrators, and customers wondering whether they standardized on something that will become “legacy” sooner than planned.

Don't Bungle Your Bundle

For the foreseeable future, you should expect more bundling, not less. Not just videobar plus display kits, but room outcomes packaged as repeatable SKUs: small room, medium room, training room, divisible room, BYOD room. But all bundles are not created equal.

The first thing to watch is whether bundling keeps shifting from one-off marketing announcements into ongoing certification programs. If vendors can turn these into repeatable, validated combinations, the “bundle” stops being a kit and starts looking more like a platform strategy.

Second, take note how quickly bundles change as product roadmaps shift. Today’s perfect pairing can get awkward the moment one partner releases a product that overlaps with the other partner’s “role” in the bundle. Even if the technology still works, the go-to-market math can change overnight.

Next, watch which bundles become defaults in the channel. When distributors, resellers, and integrators start quoting the same combinations over and over, those pairings become market signals—about demand, portfolio gaps, and sometimes which companies are getting unusually comfortable living together.

Finally, keep an eye on the breakups. The most revealing moments in this trend may not be the bundle announcements, but the quiet disappearance of a bundle that used to be featured, certified, and promoted. In a world of frenemies, the roommate arrangement can work beautifully, until one of them decides the apartment would be better without the other.

People may complain about meetings—how many they’re required to attend, how long they take, and how they prevent one from getting any real work done. But the reality is without them, it’s hard for companies to achieve anything meaningful.

For organizations, therefore, investing in the right meeting room technology should be a high priority. And this usually means deploying systems that are easy to use, standard throughout the campus or across campuses, and embrace emerging technologies.

Oliver Van Camp, product director—meeting experience at Barco, said meeting rooms are often where the biggest differentiation for a company finds its origin. "It’s where innovation is happening, it’s where decisions are being made, it’s where culture is being transferred between colleagues. It’s really a central point for driving innovation, collaboration, [and] culture," he explained. “It has become more important to connect to that AI capability, but also simplify usage to make sure that any meeting room in the workplace has the same workflow, the same capabilities, and is basically the same for any user."

Keeping It Simple

In organizations that house large numbers of conference rooms, the flexibility and scalability that AV over IP-driven systems offer simplifies deployment and management, according to Joel Mulpeter, senior director of product marketing at control and automation systems manufacturer Crestron Electronics. At the room level, meeting participants want wireless plug-and-play capabilities that don’t require additional adapters, dongles, or software—or a complex set of commands to share content.

“As much as we love talking tech and talking about how amazing it is, [our users] want to meet with colleagues in a meeting room,” Mulpeter said. “And if it is too hard to use, that’s a problem.”

This is why Airtame aims to deliver a system that gives users a similar experience to what they enjoy when streaming movies at home. In the conferencing environment, the meeting participant’s focus should be the other people in the room and the information they are sharing. Jonas Gyalokay, co-founder of Airtame, argued the enabling technology shouldn’t require people to pay much attention to which conferencing platform they’re using during any given session.

“As a user, you shouldn’t actually care that much about which type of video call that you have," Gyalokay said. "I don’t care whether that’s a Teams meeting, a Zoom meeting, a Google Meet, or a Webex. The only thing I care about is having good audio and good video and getting that [meeting] started on the screen.”

Ryan Blair, CTS-D, CTS-I, pre-construction manager at IES Communications, noted that the modern conference room must support hybrid teams, and relies on features such as AI-powered enhancements like real-time transcription, speaker tracking, and video framing. In BYOD or BYOM workflows, participants may use their own devices to control the cameras and microphones in the room.

Blair also points to the adoption of USB-C, enabling one cable interface for video, data, and power. “It’s exciting because the USB power delivery has been extended to 240 watts to support high-power and performance laptops, docking stations, and even small monitors between 27 and 32 inches,” he said.

While USB-C may have expanded capabilities, it’s also made the end user’s life easier, Mulpeter observed. Not that long ago—with the multitude of connection options that existed, such as HDMI and VGA—it wasn’t always clear to meeting participants which cable to use. “We walk up to a desk, we see a USB-C cable, we plug it in, no questions asked,” he explained. “USB-C has normalized that.”

Platforms Are Driving Design

For Blair, one of the most important developments in conferencing technology has been how the platforms have evolved to support AI-driven framing, voice tracking, and even intelligent direction/production. The goal is to make the room as user-friendly as possible, and he believes Microsoft Teams and Zoom have pushed AV professionals to standardize these workflows.

“It’s really changing how we look at rooms,” he said. “Keeping the connections in the room minimal and the interface simple goes a really long way.”

That said, BYOD/BYOM environments add a level of complexity because they must support multiple platforms and a variety of different generations of devices. Blair said providing a "single, clearly labeled BYOD or BYOM seat helps a lot. Engineering USB correctly with validated hubs, bridges, and cable links to support people bringing in their own ecosystem is very important.” It’s also necessary to test different laptop brands and models to confirm that, for example, a MacBook will behave the same way as a Windows laptop.

While wireless room configurations cut down on the need for physical cables and connections, Blair acknowledged it’s not ideal for all applications. Wireless systems may be great for displaying documents and slides in high-attendance sessions, but high-motion content, environments that experience heavy RF interference, or meetings with strict security requirements are often better served by wired connections.

However, in most cases, Blair prefers to provide both options. “I like to do a hybrid design where we have wireless as a backup to a wired path, or vice versa,” he added.

Keeping Things Secure

At the individual manufacturer level, the reputable brands have worked to ensure that their devices are secure, cannot be tampered with easily, and that connectivity between their products and, for example, the cloud is solid. The integrator’s job, then, is to verify that all the points throughout their deployments are also secure, according to Van Camp.

“There have been examples in meeting rooms where even cables could be the breach point,” Van Camp said. “Making sure that all of the connected devices, and the way that the information is transported between those devices, is secure is key.”

The first step in ensuring that conference rooms are secure is determining the security posture of the client in question, Mulpeter said. When it comes to AV/IT security, there is no one-size-fits-all solution. “Every customer will want to keep it secure in their way and not just [follow] a blanket document that covers everything,” he said.

Some organizations, such as government agencies and financial institutions, have stricter requirements than others. While companies with fewer constraints may be tempted to turn off some security features to make the technology easier for its users to navigate, this isn’t always recommended. Arriving at the best solution requires integrators to conduct some meaningful discovery.

“Understanding the security posture of the customer, making sure that the products can comply with that, and then making sure the work is actually done to make them compliant is critical, especially since everything is network-connected these days,” Mulpeter said. “You can’t have something on the network and just skip these steps.”

For the engineers at IES, centralizing firmware management and segmenting networks are two of the primary ways to keep conferencing environments secure. “[We ensure that] our AV network has its own VLAN,” Blair said.

AVT Question: Please share insights into the trends and solutions shaping the modern workplace and collaboration spaces.

Thought Leader: Oliver Van Camp, Product Director, Meeting Experience at Barco

Despite years of investment in hybrid work, collaboration inside many offices remains more complicated than it should be. Meeting rooms, which should support fluid teamwork, often bring challenges instead. The Omdia’s Universe: Smart Collaboration Device 2025 report highlights the scale of this challenge: Less than 25 percent of meeting rooms globally are equipped with video conferencing. This is not due to a lack of intent, but rather to traditional approaches that make deployment complex, costly, and difficult to scale.

Modern collaboration is no longer tied to a single location or device. People move between laptops, meeting spaces, and remote environments throughout the day, expecting technology to adapt seamlessly. When meeting rooms rely on rigid configurations and specialized setups, they fail to reflect this reality. As a result, many small and mid-sized meeting spaces remain underutilized, despite representing the bulk of everyday collaboration demand.

Omdia’s research shows the market responding with a clear shift toward flexibility. Android-based conferencing solutions are forecast to grow at a 23 percent compound annual growth rate through 2029, driven by simpler deployment, lower total cost, and easier management. With roughly 50 vendors offering similar hardware, the differentiators are no longer featured checklists, but instead management efficiency, ease of use, and adaptability. This is where strategy replaces configuration; enterprises are favoring approaches they can standardize, scale, and govern over time.

The strongest momentum is in solutions that prioritize simplicity and adaptability. The strategic shift is not just toward new devices but toward architectures—modular, wireless, and platform-agnostic approaches that accommodate both Bring-Your-Own-Device (BYOD) and fixed-room setups. Wireless meeting room systems such as ClickShare demonstrate how flexible meeting rooms reduce IT complexity and turn previously underused spaces into productive collaboration spaces. When meeting rooms adapt to people instead of the other way around, collaboration becomes natural, inclusive, and sustainable in a hybrid world.

Barco announced a new wireless room system bundle developed in partnership with Huddly and Certified for Microsoft Teams. The solution combines ClickShare Hub Pro with the Huddly C1 video bar, bringing effortless wireless conferencing and presentation to small to-medium-sized rooms.

[Research Dives into AI, Collaboration Spaces]

“At Barco, we believe the future of meeting room experiences is smart, simple, and secure—and our expanded partnership with Huddly is a meaningful step in making that vision a reality,” said Jan van Houtte, EVP meeting experiences at Barco. “Together, we’re taking another step in our strategy to make every meeting room a space where technology fades into the background and great collaboration takes center stage.”

By combining Barco’s expertise in wireless collaboration with Huddly’s leadership in developing AI-powered video conferencing cameras, the two companies are making it easier for organizations to deploy reliable, people‑first meeting solutions. Meeting participants start a meeting with a single tap on the ClickShare Control Panel. The next-gen ClickShare Button lets employees and guests share content in 4K from their own laptops with a single click with no drivers or training needed. Huddly C1’s advanced AI‑driven video and audio ensure everyone is clearly seen and heard – whether participants join from the room or remotely.

“We’re excited to partner with Barco ClickShare to bring a certified for Microsoft Teams solution to market,” said Fraser Park, chief commercial officer at Huddly. “Our mission is to pioneer AI-native collaboration that actively supports better, more engaging meetings. Together we’re delivering simple, high-quality experiences that are easy to deploy and scale.”

Designed as a Microsoft Teams Rooms solution and Certified for Microsoft Teams, the bundle delivers the native Teams experience with room-to-room consistency. ClickShare Hub Pro is built on Microsoft’s Device Ecosystem Platform (MDEP), combining a security-by-design foundation with centralized management for IT.

With more than 30 locations around Central Florida, Addition Financial Credit Union has been focused on enhancing both collaboration and communication in the hybrid workplace. Specifically, it was looking for a seamless videoconferencing experience in its headquarters’ main conference room, one that hosts two high-level meetings on a monthly basis.

The credit union recently went through a technology-enhanced makeover, creating a conferencing environment that enables employees to meet more efficiently and share information clearly, while supporting hybrid communication with clients and internal teams, according to Andrew Mulazzi, Lumens Southeast zone manager.

So, why the change? As with corporate settings across all verticals, the meeting space continues to evolve, becoming more hybrid with more remote participants. That is especially true for Addition Financial Credit Union, with many locations spread throughout the area.

Initially, the main conference room was oriented 90 degrees, with the typical large rectangular table and display on one end. "That arrangement was not conducive to include remote and in-room participants seeing each other easily," explained Chet Neal, CTS, president of Altamonte Springs-based RelianceAV, which partnered on the integration. "A U-shape table arrangement was chosen to address that challenge and to make content presented more easily viewed. It also provides better camera angles that offer a better experience for remote attendees."

Prior to the technical installation, Neal said there was an existing screen, projector, and lift used for these conferences. RelianceAV renovated the room, building a wall to support a 135-inch EZ LED Visual dvLED video display with 1.2mm pixel pitch. The enhancements only took RelianceAV one week to fully install, commission, and train with the client.

"The room also had a bad flutter echo from the windows and a large drywall ceiling section," Neal added. "[Primacoustic] acoustic panels were added to the walls and acoustic ceiling tiles were used to effectively address this."

RelianceAV turned to a wide range of Pro AV solutions to pull the room together. Lumens CamConnect Pro and Lumens auto-tracking cameras were at the heart of the installation. Mulazzi explained CamConnect enables intelligent, microphone-driven speaker tracking, automatically switching and framing the active speaker without the need for manual operation.

The Lumens solutions work in tandem with Yamaha's RM-CG ceiling array microphone, while incorporating Barco ClickShare for wireless content sharing, allowing team members to instantly present from any device. Additionally, a Dante two-channel power amplifier from Muxlab, switches provided by NETGEAR, and touchpanels from Aurora Multimedia enhance the new technology.

The end result is what Neal called the ultimate BYOD room. Microsoft Teams is the most used collaboration tool, but Addition Financial wanted participants to be able to host and run meetings from their laptops. "The Lumens Connect and Aurora DSP allows for USB video and audio to be distributed to a wired laptop connection through Aurora VPX AV over IP solution, or wirelessly with the Barco ClickShare," he explained.

The conference room has been well received, and the credit union is looking to update four smaller conference rooms to all include videoconferencing capabilities. "Working with RelianceAV was a great experience," Mulazzi added. "Chet and his team worked with our sales and engineering teams to design the workflow and implement best practices for the Lumens solutions deployed. RelianceAV’s integration expertise ensured that all technologies—from audio to camera tracking—worked together flawlessly."

Barco has reached an agreement in principle to acquire 100% of the shares of French-British premium audio company VerVent Audio Holding. The company, which is based in Saint-Étienne, designs and manufactures high-end audio systems under the Focal and Naim brands.

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VerVent’s portfolio spans loudspeakers, immersive and active audio solutions, headphones, studio monitors and automotive and yachting OEM systems. Its strong global retail and distribution network, including more than 80 boutiques and thousands of sales points, provides an immediate platform for go-to-market acceleration.

The enterprise value of the acquisition is about €135m and the transaction will be financed with Barco’s own funds. After closing, VerVent will be integrated into Barco’s entertainment division. The acquisition will facilitate Barco’s evolution towards integrated AV solutions, offering high‑end visualization and audio solutions to consumer and professional customers.

Beyond the home and consumer segment, the deal will also create opportunities to develop integrated AV propositions in home cinema, public spaces, and professional cinema. "By welcoming VerVent and its iconic Focal and Naim brands into the Barco family, we accelerate our strategy to deliver fully integrated solutions where image and sound reinforce each other seamlessly," An Steegen, Barco’s chief executive, said. “The addition of high‑fidelity audio strengthens the overall experience of our offering across high‑end residential and broader consumer/home entertainment environments, as well as in professional markets."

AVT Question: Please share insights into the company's roadmap and what 2026 holds for its AV/IT customers.

Thought Leader: Oliver Van Camp, Product Director, Meeting Experience at Barco

Looking ahead to 2026, AI will be a main accelerator for our innovative roadmap. AI is already transforming meetings into engines of progress. From automating note-taking to bridging language gaps, AI-powered tools are making collaboration more inclusive, focused, and productive.

Platforms like Teams, Zoom, and Google Meet now embed AI features such as real-time summarization, speaker recognition, and translation. The real impact, however, comes when these capabilities integrate seamlessly with meeting room solutions like Barco ClickShare. ClickShare ensures that AI-driven features work across hybrid setups, creating a consistent experience whether participants join remotely or in-room.

The biggest benefit? Clarity and consistency. AI captures decisions and next steps so teams leave aligned and ready to act. Combined with ClickShare’s intuitive wireless sharing and experience, this clarity extends beyond the meeting—streamlining follow-ups and reducing backtracking.

But there’s a caveat: over-reliance. If teams stop engaging because “AI will remember,” then creativity suffers. AI should never replace the human spark—the energy of building on ideas and asking questions. Let’s treat AI as a teammate and not as a decision-maker.

The future of work starts in the meeting room. When AI and ClickShare strengthen collaboration rather than complicate it, meetings stop being time sinks and start becoming strategic accelerators for teamwork. Looking ahead, AI will evolve from a passive note-taker to an active facilitator that is analyzing real-time dynamics: who’s contributing, where discussions stall, and how to keep conversations balanced. The future isn’t about AI taking over; it’s about trust. When AI is trusted to strengthen collaboration and not overshadow it, meetings become more than scheduled events; they become accelerators for teamwork.

Barco and Extreme have partnered on a technology integration that enables organizations to securely share critical control room information across global locations. By combining Barco CTRL—an innovative all-in-one KVM-over-IP solution—with Extreme Fabric, customers gain a secure, scalable, and resilient platform for managing critical operations anywhere.

The Connected Control Room principle addresses genuine operational challenges across multiple industries. Consider offshore drilling operations, where control rooms on remote rigs must maintain constant communication with corporate refinery facilities onshore. The partnership's solution creates a secure bridge between these environments, enabling seamless information flows despite challenging maritime conditions.

Empowering remote and resilient operations: The integration enables experts to work seamlessly from anywhere, including branch offices, home, or remote sites, through SD-WAN hardware, giving them full access to control room environments. It also serves as a disaster recovery solution: if fiber connections between control rooms and Emergency Operations Centers fail, Extreme SD-WAN provides backup connectivity to keep operations running.

The power behind the platform: Barco CTRL combines sophistication with simplicity. This scalable software platform streamlines complex control room workflows through intuitive design and a robust security architecture built on Zero Trust and Shift Left principles that is ideal for the most security-sensitive environments.

Setup is guided and straightforward, while a unified interface ensures consistent functionality across video walls and operator desks. The platform scales easily by adding encoders and decoders, and redundancy options protect critical components to maximize uptime. Together with Extreme’s distributed connectivity, this ensures continuity without compromise.

Transforming critical operations: The Connected Control Room represents a fundamental shift in how organizations run distributed operations. By removing the limits of geography, companies can deploy their best people and resources wherever they’re needed, while maintaining the highest levels of security and reliability.

As industries move toward more distributed and resilient models, Barco and Extreme provide the foundation for the next generation of control rooms: secure, reliable, and intuitive connectivity for mission-critical operations.

I’ve been a remote worker since 2014, but oddly enough, it wasn’t until the pandemic that I felt more connected to my colleagues. Today, no matter where workers are located, it’s rare for a meeting not to be “face-to-face.” Connecting via a camera has made a positive and significant difference in helping me feel more connected to individuals and the team. Rather than bumping into someone in the hallway or lunchroom, I’ll have a quick huddle via Slack.

But it takes an overall company culture to embrace videoconferencing technologies and collaboration platforms to help ensure remote and hybrid workers are integrated into the workflow. More than the feeling of inclusion, this is important for workplace efficiency and productivity.

We asked AV/IT industry thought leaders to share their insights into the elements and culture of creating productive collaboration environments near and far. Some excerpts are below, and you can read the responses from all 45 respondents here.

TYLER TROUTMAN,
Strategic Market Development,
Shure

In modern workplace and education environments, collaboration extends beyond physical boundaries. Teams are not defined by a single office, campus, or time zone. Instead, we are experiencing hybrid, global collaboration daily. To keep people connected and engaged, organizations and educational institutions must prioritize spaces that foster meeting equity, ensuring every participant can contribute, whether they are in person or remote.

Meeting equity begins with clarity. This includes clear communication, clear visibility, and clear participation. Too often, poor audio leaves remote participants struggling to keep up, which directly impacts engagement and productivity. High-quality audio and intuitive conferencing tools are essential so that everyone in the room can hear and be heard without distraction.

Creating productive collaboration environments also means designing spaces that adapt to evolving working styles. Some teams thrive in open huddle areas, while others need structured, presentation-style rooms. The most effective collaboration culture acknowledges that no two meetings are alike, and provides reliable, scalable technology that works across spaces.

Ease of use is also critical, especially when it comes to those responsible for set up. Technology should empower people to focus on the conversation at hand. For IT leaders, this means access to solutions that are simple to deploy and manage, while delivering a consistent experience for those in the meeting. For end users, it means technology that fades into the background, so communication feels effortless.

When every voice in a room is heard, everyone in the room feels connected, and teams unlock stronger engagement and decision-making abilities. By integrating intuitive, high-quality audio solutions into adaptable spaces, organizations and higher education institutions can cultivate cultures of collaboration that thrive regardless of where people are joining a meeting from.

SKYLER BOWDEN,
Senior Marketing Manager,
Mersive

The traditional meeting setup feels outdated. The default one-presenter-at-the-front approach, where someone clicks through slides while the room half-listens, is familiar, but doesn’t invite participation. And let’s be honest—meetings often start with a scramble to get the AV working before anything productive happens.

This structure is familiar because it reflects how many of us were taught: lecture-style, passive, and linear. But effective collaboration demands more than just taking turns at the front of the room; it asks for space, both physical and psychological, for contribution.

Room layout plays a bigger role than we give it credit for. Can content be shared from anywhere? Can everyone see the display—not just those at the head of the table? Do the tools invite participation or require a technical specialist to operate?

Some organizations build rooms with fully equipped workstations with individual displays and audio setups for every contributor. In the right context, this is a powerful way to invite interaction. But for many IT and AV teams, that level of design and support isn’t realistic. Overengineered spaces become more burden than benefit when the goal is simply to work better together.

That’s why the best rooms often offer the simplest design—a blank creative slate. There is no dominant display, no obvious “front”—just intuitive, flexible tools that allow people to share content, brainstorm, and collaborate however they work best. These spaces don’t dictate how meetings should run; they invite people to create their own way of working.

That’s especially critical now. Asking employees to return to the office is no longer a default; it’s a request. If the workplace is going to compete with the flexibility of remote work, it has to offer more than just a desk and a whiteboard; it has to offer value.

F. JOSEPH POMPEI,
Founder and Chief Executive Officer,
Holosonics

Collaboration has become the defining skill of modern organizations. Whether people are huddled up in an open office, gathering in a conference room, or connecting virtually across time zones, success rests first with the participants—their insight, attentiveness, and capacity to work together. Optimizing this depends greatly on the environments and technologies that enable it, and building a culture that embraces real communication.

We often focus on access and connectivity, making sure everyone can log in, join, and participate. Yet, the quality of the environment itself—how it looks, feels, and, critically, how it sounds—determines whether collaboration truly works. Even with the best tools, it is difficult to share ideas when overlapping conversations compete for attention, voices blur, and important details are lost in background noise.

Productive collaboration requires clarity of purpose, communication of ideas, and sound. The way we design for listening determines how well people understand one another and stay engaged. When sound is clear and distractions are minimized, attention improves, creativity rises, and every participant has a chance to contribute meaningfully.

This is not just a technical consideration, but a cultural one. When an organization invests in environments where every participant can hear and be heard, it sends a powerful signal: that every voice matters. It is saying that collaboration is not simply about proximity or platform, but about presence, equity, and shared understanding.

As workplaces continue to evolve, one principle remains constant: Productivity starts with connection, and connection starts with clarity. The future of collaboration will belong to environments designed not only for access, but for understanding. When people can truly hear one another, everything else falls into place.

EMMA EAGLE,
Manager of Marketing,
Atlona

I’ve learned that creating productive collaboration environments, whether in person or spread across distances, starts with a foundation of trust, clarity, and respect. Teams work best when they know their voices are valued and when everyone has a clear understanding of goals and expectations. That sense of alignment allows people to focus less on logistics and more on contributing their best ideas.

Another key element is intentional communication. In today’s hybrid and global environments, it’s not enough to rely on casual touchpoints; structure matters. Setting regular check-ins, using the right tools, and encouraging both formal updates and informal conversations help keep connections strong. At the same time, flexibility is important; recognizing different work styles, time zones, and cultural perspectives makes collaboration more inclusive and resilient.

Finally, I believe the most successful collaboration comes from creating a culture of shared ownership. When individuals feel empowered to take initiative and understand how their work impacts the bigger picture, collaboration becomes less about assigning tasks and more about building something meaningful together. Near or far, it’s about creating an environment where people feel supported, accountable, and motivated to contribute—not just because it’s their role, but because they truly care about the outcome.

GEORGE BORDEN,
Senior Reseller Account Manager, Central Region,
Sharp Imaging and Information Company of America

Creating a culture of effective collaboration means ensuring that every participant—whether seated in the office or joining remotely—has an equal voice, clear visibility, and seamless access to shared resources. The foundation of this culture begins with software. Unified chat platforms replace isolated email exchanges with searchable, topic-driven conversations, creating an archive of organizational knowledge. When integrated with video conferencing, teams can shift from chat to face-to-face discussions instantly with high-definition video, AI-generated transcriptions, and virtual breakout rooms supporting deeper engagement.

Beyond communication, centralized file management ensures that projects move forward without version confusion. Cloud-based solutions like OneDrive or Google Drive enable real-time co-authoring of documents, spreadsheets, and presentations, while app integration brings business tools such as Salesforce directly into the collaboration platform. This single-pane approach streamlines workflows and reduces wasted time toggling between apps.

The physical workplace also continues to evolve for successful hybrid collaboration. Modern meeting rooms are designed for inclusivity, with intelligent audio and video systems that employ speaker tracking, noise suppression, and group framing to give remote participants the same presence as those in the room. Layouts such as Microsoft Teams and Front Row further bridge the gap, placing remote attendees at eye level and integrating chat, reactions, and shared content in one cohesive view.

Finally, interactive digital canvases, such as Sharp’s AQUOS BOARD, extend collaboration into the creative realm. These large-format displays allow dispersed teams to brainstorm, annotate, and ideate together as though standing side by side. Pairing this with one-touch meeting join solutions like Sharp’s Synappx eliminates technical barriers and ensures meetings start smoothly.

These advances result in a collaborative ecosystem that is inclusive, frictionless, and designed for how teams truly work—near and far.

GEORGE TRUONG,
Vice President of Operations,
Black Box

Modern AV collaboration platforms have evolved into mission-critical business infrastructure, requiring almost zero downtime. This evolution demands sophisticated service delivery that ensures consistent, reliable collaboration between end users and the integrator.

Collaboration environments build upon four pillars: user experience optimization, proactive monitoring support, and continuous improvement on efficiency and utilization. Service reliability extends beyond traditional uptime metrics to encompass experience quality indicators across all locations. This requires establishing global SLAs that account for regional variations while maintaining or exceeding standards on compliance. User experience optimization focuses on reducing friction in collaboration workflows, implementing one-touch join, automated room configurations, or an intuitive but simple interface that reduces support requirements.

The current demand emphasizes shifting from reactive service to preventive service models with proactive self-health. Operational capabilities that can identify degradation patterns before they impact users. This proactive stance requires cultivating analytical mindsets within operations teams, teaching them to analyze usage data and identify optimization opportunities. Organizations implementing "partnered solutions" services that provide full 24/7 remote and onsite support for customer ecosystems build user confidence while gathering insights into service improvement.

Scaling operational excellence requires establishing a culture to drive excellence that defines best practices and disseminates knowledge across the organization. Successful implementation of tiered support models that balance responsiveness with global consistency. The enabling factor for operational excellence is a sophisticated monitoring platform that provides real-time visibility into collaboration performance, enabling rapid response to issues while building historical data for trend analysis and capacity planning.

JOHN KRUSE,
Senior Field Solutions Architect,
ViewSonic

The most effective collaboration environments today are not defined by a single technology or meeting room; they are built at the intersection of space, tools, and culture. As organizations reimagine how people connect and create, successful collaboration strategies must focus on removing friction and enhancing human interaction, regardless of location.

Intentional design is the starting point. Physical environments should support a variety of work modes—from brainstorming sessions to hybrid meetings—and incorporate fundamentals like optimized acoustics, visibility, and comfort. Equally important is flexibility: Modular furniture, adaptable displays, and scalable AV systems allow spaces to evolve as teams, technologies, and workflows change.

Frictionless technology is another essential element. Solutions should integrate seamlessly across platforms, enabling intuitive, one-touch connectivity and interoperability with conferencing, control, and content systems. When technology disappears into the background, creativity and collaboration come to the forefront.

Beyond hardware, culture is the true driver of productive collaboration. Spaces and systems must support meeting equity, making remote participants feel as present and valued as those in the room. Features like AI-powered framing, spatial audio, transcription, and translation can level the playing field and ensure every voice is heard.

Looking ahead, collaboration environments will become increasingly intelligent and persistent. Cloud platforms, data analytics, and AI will not only support meetings but actively shape them—anticipating needs, connecting content, and extending collaboration beyond physical boundaries.

Ultimately, the future of collaboration isn’t about creating rooms; it’s about designing ecosystems that inspire creativity, foster connection, and empower teams to work together—anytime, anywhere.

OLIVER VAN CAMP,
Product Director, Meeting Experience,
Barco

In the rush to adopt the latest collaboration technologies, organizations often chase flashy features while overlooking the fundamentals that ensure long-term success. The most effective meeting room solutions prioritize three core elements: ease of use, trust, and smart technology.

Even the most advanced technology fails if employees struggle to use it. Collaboration tools must be intuitive, flexible, and consistent across meeting rooms and devices. When participants can connect, share content, and engage seamlessly, meetings start faster, adoption increases, and teams focus on collaboration—not on troubleshooting technology.

Collaboration technology frequently handles sensitive content, making trust a critical factor. Robust security, configurable access levels, and regular updates protect data and ensure compliance. In hybrid workplaces, teams depend on consistent performance across rooms and devices. Systems that fail or require troubleshooting disrupt meetings, erode confidence, and reduce productivity. Investing in reliable technology ensures meetings run smoothly, builds trust among users, and supports higher adoption rates.

And last, but not least, the role of intelligence in the meeting room cannot be denied. AI can enhance collaboration when applied thoughtfully. Features like automated transcription, intelligent facilitation, and real-time insights can add value when they complement existing workflows rather than creating complexity.

Technology should empower teams to work smarter, freeing them to focus on discussion, creativity, and decision-making rather than constantly adapting to new systems.

Successful technology adoption requires a clear strategy. Evaluate solutions based on usability, security, reliability, and scalability first—then consider advanced features. By focusing on the fundamentals, organizations can ensure that collaboration tools truly enhance productivity and engagement, both now and in the future.

TERRENCE BOYD,
Senior Strategy and Business Development Manager, Alliance and Technology Partnerships,
Sony Electronics

In today’s dynamic environments, collaboration is no longer confined to meeting rooms; it happens across campuses, hospitals, production floors, and retail spaces. The most productive environments connect people, content, and ideas with ease, no matter where they are.

At Sony, we believe collaboration thrives when technology works together—not in isolation. And we’re not alone; our customers and partners maintain that same philosophy. Sony’s Alliance and Technology Partner ecosystem plays a vital role in shaping environments where people create, communicate, and collaborate. Through alignment with leading partners across digital signage, AV control, unified communications and collaboration (UCC), remote management systems (RMS), and hardware and mounting solutions, we deliver seamless, end-to-end experiences that make teamwork effortless and inclusive, and remove barriers and guesswork for our customers.

Having an open ecosystem, as Sony does, gives customers the freedom to choose the technologies that best fit their needs, whether the goal is a hybrid meeting space, a digital signage network that informs and inspires, or a control system that simplifies complex workflows. Together with our partners, we integrate these solutions that enhance Sony’s core offerings and bring added value to every project because customers expect robust, turnkey options.

This collaborative approach ensures that every solution meets current requirements while remaining ready for the innovations ahead. By combining Sony’s strengths with the expertise of our partners, we create spaces that adapt to people rather than asking people to adapt to technology.

In a world that continues to change rapidly, success depends on partnership. Through collective innovation, Sony and its partners are delivering human-driven collaboration experiences that help people work smarter, connect more deeply, and achieve more together.

CHARLIE JONES, Global Partner Relations Manager,
Sennheiser

Building effective collaboration spaces relies on conferencing technology that reduces complexity to deliver a seamless user experience. Intelligent automation is driving this evolution, transforming meeting rooms into intuitive environments that enhance communication without distracting participants. The goal is a smart conference space where microphones, cameras, and control systems work together automatically to keep the focus on productivity.

To reduce complexity, IT and AV professionals can take advantage of the advancements in interoperability of audio, video, and conferencing platforms, as well as insights drawn from years of audio expertise and knowledge of meeting dynamics. For example, beamforming microphones have redefined sound quality by isolating voices from background noise, which is coupled with robust networks delivering low latency. The result makes it easier for both in-room and remote participants to follow conversations without disruption.

Building these rooms goes beyond simply deploying technology and relies on robust central management. Software and cloud platforms that tackle room planning and device management can allow for faster, more scalable deployments to meet today’s substantial workplace demands. These virtual room design tools that also monitor and manage the interoperability between AV protocols ensure consistent, high-quality user experiences across entire organizations with effective planning and reduced manual setup.

As AI and automation continue to advance, meeting environments will only become more intuitive and adaptive. While fully autonomous conference rooms are beyond the horizon for the moment, the innovations available today are already paving the way toward a future where technology supports collaboration seamlessly, freeing teams to concentrate fully on their work.

NANCY KNOWLTON,
Chief Executive Officer,
Nureva

There really are no secrets to productive collaboration; it all comes down to people, process and technology.

Productive collaboration—whether across the hall or across continents—starts with people. Valuing individuals and their experiences is foundational to any successful collaborative environment. When people feel respected and empowered, they bring their best selves to the table. That’s why the first step is to give them the tools and environments they need to create and collaborate. Comfortable spaces, intuitive platforms, and access to the right resources signal that their contributions matter.

Next comes the process. Collaboration doesn’t just happen; most often it needs to be taught, then nurtured and refined. Teams must learn how to work together effectively, understanding when group work accelerates outcomes and when individual effort sharpens focus. A well-designed process for collaboration clarifies direction, roles, and expectations, and it enables teams to work faster and better. Nobody is born knowing how to collaborate, so setting out some guidelines can be enabling, not restrictive. It helps people see how their work fits into the bigger picture and how they can contribute meaningfully to shared goals.

Technology is the final layer—the enabler that makes collaboration seamless and scalable. From cloud-based applications and unified communications platforms to high-quality audio systems and smart cameras, technology removes barriers and connects people in real time. But it’s not enough to simply deploy tools. Organizations must relentlessly research and observe: Is the combination of people, process, and technology delivering the results the business needs? Is it making teams more productive, more creative, and more aligned?

Ask. Observe. Refine. The most productive collaboration environments are those that evolve—driven by the needs of the people within them and the outcomes they’re working to achieve.

JOHN HENKEL,
Product Marketing Director,
NETGEAR Enterprise

The convergence of broadcast, unified communications, and AV infrastructure is accelerating rapidly. Creating productive collaboration environments starts with building unified IP ecosystems that don’t distinguish between near and far work; instead, they treat all collaboration as equal, regardless of location. This requires moving beyond traditional box shifting to a solution-led consultancy that embeds AV into broader digital transformation strategies.

The most effective collaboration cultures prioritize user experience over technology showcasing. Organizations succeeding in hybrid environments focus on broadcast-quality experiences as the new standard for enterprise communications—not just for special occasions. This means investing in scalable solutions that make remote participants feel as present as in-room colleagues, eliminating the second-class-citizen experience that plagues many hybrid setups.

From huddle spaces to large conference rooms, consistent, reliable technology across all collaboration points builds confidence and adoption. When teams trust that their tools will work seamlessly, whether they’re together or distributed, cultural resistance to hybrid work diminishes. This consistency requires robust networked solutions with centralized management, ensuring every space delivers professional-grade experiences.

The shift toward AI-driven AV, advanced lighting and sound, and immersive experiences is fundamentally about creating systems smart enough to adapt to how people naturally collaborate—not about adding layers of complexity. Organizations embracing this approach create environments where technology becomes invisible, allowing teams to focus on ideas rather than troubleshooting connectivity.

The bottom line: Productive collaboration cultures emerge when infrastructure supports authentic interaction regardless of physical location, when user experience trumps technical specifications, and when organizations commit to unified ecosystems rather than patchwork solutions.

PETRO SHIMONISHI,
Director of New Business Development,
Panasonic Projector and Display Americas

Today’s workplaces and classrooms are no longer defined by four walls. Collaboration must be seamless, whether participants are across campus or across the globe. To meet this demand, organizations need technologies that are both robust and flexible to empower instructors, students, and employees to connect in ways that are simple, reliable, and interactive.

Panasonic recently surveyed higher education IT leaders, which revealed that 83 percent of students regularly interact with projectors and 81 percent say these technologies positively impact learning. These findings highlight that when collaboration technologies are intuitive and dependable, they become essential to how people learn and work.

However, decision-makers also flagged a growing concern: As devices become more feature-rich, they risk becoming harder for faculty and employees to manage. This underscores the importance of technology that reduces complexity rather than adding to it. Solutions must be designed for plug-and-play simplicity, while delivering professional-grade performance.

That’s why Panasonic and Artome partnered to create the PT-VMZ-AVCART, an innovative, mobile AV solution that combines Artome’s flexible design with Panasonic’s advanced projection to transform any space into a collaboration hub. These solutions eliminate the need for permanent installations, instantly transforming any classroom, huddle space, or boardroom into a connected, collaborative environment. By combining Panasonic’s advanced projection with Artome’s flexible design, organizations gain scalable tools that adapt to their unique spaces and needs.

The culture of collaboration today depends on access, flexibility, and ease of use. Whether enabling a professor to engage hundreds of students or allowing hybrid teams to brainstorm across time zones, the goal is the same: Technologies should inspire interaction, not inhibit it. At Panasonic, we believe the most productive environments are built on tools that make connection effortless anywhere, anytime.

JOEL MULPETER,
Senior Director, Product Marketing,
Crestron

We often talk about building a culture of collaboration. As people have returned to the office as part of their hybrid schedules, it’s critical that we serve the needs of those who come into that space. Technology needs to be seamless—disappearing into the background but delivering the rich experiences they expect.

Take, for example, the rich experiences you have in Microsoft Teams at your desk—can you take that experience into a conference room? You don’t want to have a different platform when you walk into the meeting room; you want to use the familiar one you’ve used at your desk.

You also want things like the “eyes and ears” in that room to be intelligent and smart. You want cameras that react to workflows in the room, and not cameras that must constantly be told what to do. You want audio that hears what you have to say and can then feed that into remote connections and the accompanying AI tool. You need to be getting tangible benefits out of that tool: translation, transcription, actionable insights, and so on. And then, you want to leverage that platform—Teams, Zoom, or whatever you prefer.

Beyond those tools, it’s also important to find the right balance of other AI features. Edge AI is especially useful and efficient in presenter tracking, for example. You don’t need to send that processing to the cloud and bring it back again—just do it in the camera. Cloud AI is better for things such as translation and transcription, identifying people, and so on. Ultimately, the goal is to create spaces that truly drive the culture of collaboration.

JOSH ARNOLD,
Director, Collaboration Product Strategy,
Q-SYS

In today’s workplace, collaboration is not confined to AV systems; it’s about crafting holistic experiences that empower people and culture. The rise of the high-performance workplace reflects a shift from static office environments to dynamic destinations that foster connection and creativity. Forward-thinking organizations are reimagining their spaces to build culture, expand mentorship, and enhance well-being across both high-impact rooms and the spaces in between. This reflects a deeper understanding: Technology should not just connect people, but also inspire and bring them together.

This transformation is already happening at scale. According to a recent whitepaper developed by Frost and Sullivan in partnership with Q-SYS, 46 percent of IT and telecom leaders are modernizing office technology, while 50 percent are investing in new perks and experiences. With over 5.6 billion square feet of Class A space positioned for high-performance transformation and 9.1 billion square feet of U.S. office space ripe for reinvention, the workplace has become a critical lever for organizational productivity.

Second, simplicity in technology is paramount. The most powerful collaboration tools are those that disappear into the background, enabling fluid interaction without friction. When technology is standardized, intuitive, and accessible, hybrid equity thrives—enabling every participant, near or far, to contribute equally. When users don’t have to think about how to connect, they can focus on what matters most: sharing ideas, solving problems, and building relationships.

Finally, smart collaboration environments should enable a feedback loop for continuous improvement. Rich spatial and usage data help organizations optimize layouts, refine workflows, and adapt to evolving needs—turning workplaces from static assets into dynamic engines for growth.

In essence, high-performance workplaces center on people and experience. They eliminate friction, create hybrid equity, and drive measurable outcomes. By embracing intentional design, user-centric simplicity, and data-driven evolution, organizations can create environments where creativity and productivity thrives.

Plainfield High School, located in Plainfield, NJ, recently underwent a major renovation on its campus. The project included the upgrade of the existing Plainfield High School auditorium to a professional-style performing arts center, its mini-theater converted to a black box theater, and two classrooms transformed into a new esports arena.

[Behind the Scenes of 'Renoir: A Luminous Evolution']

It was no easy task. One focus of the renovation was on making the auditorium the main viewing space for esports events. The problem? The performing arts center and theater were adjacent to each other; however, the esports arena was on the other side of the school. PureTek Group was brought on to make the vision and future of esports at the high school a reality.

The Space Between

Considering the magnitude of the project—three unique spaces that had to be interconnected despite the space between—PureTek Group completed the renovations quickly; it was only a year and a half from inception to the ribbon cutting on June 7, 2024. According to Dan Litvin, president, PureTek Group, the primary challenges were threefold.

For one, Litvin and his team needed to create a cohesive and integrated system across three distinct yet interconnected venues, each of which incorporated innovative technologies tailored to its unique function. Ensuring these systems worked harmoniously required meticulous planning and a deep understanding of both the individual requirements of each space and how they could complement one another.

That required forward-thinking, enhanced technologies leading to a second challenge—it had to be usable by the school staff and students operating the venues. “Designing high-performance systems is only part of the equation,” Litvin added. “Ensuring they are accessible, intuitive, and support a wide range of programming and curriculum needs was essential.”

Another major challenge was to future-proof the design, ensuring the venues remain visually inspiring, technologically advanced, and educationally relevant for years to come. "This meant not just using the best available technology but also designing with adaptability and evolution in mind," Litvin said.

Of course, there was also the challenge of tying it all together and keeping the communications open from the control room to the spaced-out theaters and arena. With the auditorium and esports arena on different sides of the school, a reliable intercom system that ensured good range and coverage was non-negotiable.

Litvin and PureTek Group selected Pliant's CrewCom 2+2 Control Unit (CCU) for the auditorium control booth, with three CrewCom 900MHz Radio Transceivers (RTs) located throughout the school to provide seamless coverage. The system also includes seven CrewCom 900MHz 2-Volume/2-Conference Radio Packs with seven SmartBoom PRO single-ear headsets.

"The main benefit that we found with this system is that the radio packs can 'roam' or switch between different radio transceivers for optimal signal quality, while maintaining uninterrupted communication," Litvin detailed. "This gives the user the ability to be within any part of the larger coverage area and still have connection."

This was important for this project because the CrewCom system is used during performances to coordinate between the control booth, backstage, and sometimes the green room (either the black box theater or a repurposed classroom during events). Also, during esports tournaments, while the auditorium is used as a viewing area for the live gameplay, the main broadcast setup is in the esports arena.

"The Pliant system allows the school to coordinate between the auditorium control booth and the broadcast setup in the esports arena," Litvin explained. "This allows for clear instructions among the entire production team and provides a cohesive, professional, and incredibly memorable experience for the audience."

It was the collaboration between Plainfield High School, PureTek Group, and expert partners that got the job done so successfully. "We maintained open and consistent communication, proactively solved issues before they became problems, and stayed focused on delivering a world-class result that reflects the values and vision of the Plainfield community,” Litvin said.

Let Them Play

Plainfield Public Schools’ leadership wanted to give its students every advantage and to make their new esports arena a must-see site for competitions. What started as a small, summer initiative caught fire and required its own arena for competitions.

Viewing the competitions takes place in the 1,600-seat performing arts center. Per Litvin, spectators can watch on a new 35x14.8-foot Da-Lite screen, which is supported by a Barco UDM-4K30 projector with R9862020 lens, as the event is streamed in real time with immersive lighting in the auditorium reflecting the effects in the esports arena to engage attendees. Live sounds of the audience are captured and played over speakers in the esports arena to keep players engaged with the attendees.

Because the black box theater across campus serves as a green room for esports events, clear and concise communication between the production teams is a must. "To achieve a collaborative performance, communication is key, so reliable coverage from a distance is a necessity," Litvin explained. "With CrewCom, production personnel at the school are able to communicate clearly from the esports arena all the way to the backstage booth in the auditorium. The CrewCom system is used extensively throughout the school and produces unified performance, from standard backstage theatrical production applications, to managing cameras, lighting, and audio from room to room at a distance."

The arena itself—which is restricted to competitors, coaches, and production teams—has 20 gaming stations that accommodate four teams of five players, with additional stations that are home to broadcast operators, two sets of shoutcasters, and a replay operator. It is also used for esports practices and hands-on STEM opportunities, making it much more than a gameday production center.

As Litvin explained, Corsair/Origin gaming machines were selected for the stations, while 20 PTZOptics Studio Pro cameras were chosen to capture players’ emotions and responses in real time. Two PTZ cameras capture wide views of the arena, two additional cameras capture shoutcaster teams, and a feed from the replay operator highlighting top plays in real time are used to livestream on YouTube, Twitch, and the auditorium. Productions are managed with a Vizrt TriCaster 2 Elite video production system.

Enhancing the Arts

The auditorium was not a fresh build but a renovation, which certainly helped the timeline. According to Litvin, prior to the upgrade, the auditorium contained outdated and broken technology, a difficult-to-use control system, and an uninviting aesthetic. Litvin and PureTek Group enhanced that with professional grade technology, making the performing arts center not only an exciting venue for cheering on the Plainfield esports team, but a wide range of theatrical performances for years to come.

As Litvin described, key to the upgrade were the unRAVL Controls by PureTek, which provide streamlined intuitive controls via touchpanel for the rigging, AV, and lighting systems to maximize usage of the space by students, educators, guests, and renters with authorized system access. A 30,000-lumen 4K laser projector brings the 35x14.8-foot projection screen to life. The screen is on a motorized hoist system to be raised and lowered for usage. A line-array speaker system, including Electro-Voice and Dynacord units, flanks the stage, while fill speakers below and above the balcony ensure even and high-quality sound distribution.

Additionally, the performing arts center contains more than 1,640 feet of RGBW strip lighting by Acolyte (with controls by Madrix) on 11 runs that cover the walls and ceiling. PureTek Group lighting designers outfitted Plainfield High School with control of 4-inch increments of the strips, with various presets. Also installed were three 4K PTZ cameras and one portable handheld camera to livestream performances to the Plainfield Public School’s YouTube channel. "Students and parents can receive recordings and share, in real time, with relatives and friends from near and afar," Litvin said.

Thinking Inside the Box

According to Litvin, the 120-seat black box theater was an underutilized, existing space that wasn't properly outfitted for performances. Now it is serving multiple purposes.

"As an esports green room, athletes will be able to watch gameplay in the black box theater while they await their scheduled game time," Litvin explained. "The [theater] is also being used as a setting for drama education, theater tech practice, as well as a small intimate setting for student-run productions. It is also being utilized for professional education seminars for Plainfield Public Schools educators and administrators, while also providing a college lecture-hall style classroom setting to prepare students for university and provide an alternative setting for education."

To accomplish the multifaceted happenings in the theater, it was equipped with a comprehensive unRAVL system including new rigging, AV, and lighting. The system is tied together via intuitive controls with presets for common applications, allowing usage of the space for multiple functions by a maximum number of users.

[Extra Lives for Esports?]

lainfield High School and PureTek saw immediate positive results, right from the start. “During the ribbon cutting, the Pliant CrewCom intercom system was a lifesaver,” Litvin said. “We had clear communication between the esports broadcasting space, the main control booth in the auditorium, and with students running production backstage. It allowed students to take ownership as well as enabled the smooth running of a complex event that included many back-to-back performances.”

The key to communications has been its ease of use, and that has shined through the early stages of use. “Making sure that students are able to use the equipment and that the controls are streamlined enough for them is always a consideration in our equipment selection,” Litvin concluded. “The feedback from Plainfield High School on the Pliant gear has been great.”

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Command and Control

Control room experts discuss display choices, the importance of KVM technology, and more for real-time operations centers.

At Issue

Experts from Adder, Barco, Cobalt Digital, Haivision, Jupiter, Matrox Video, Planar, and tvONE explore how command and control room technologies have changed in recent years.

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AVT Question: Please share how technologies are helping to reshape the workplace and create user-friendly environments.

Thought Leader: Dan Root, Head of Global Strategic Alliances at Barco

While organizations have shown that remote work is feasible on a large scale, the C-suite has struggled to establish consistent hybrid work policies. Despite significant investments in workspaces and collaborative technologies, employees are not willing to give up the flexibility they have become accustomed to, revealing that a one-size-fits-all approach to the employee experience is unrealistic.

Rather than shifting from one return-to-office (RTO) policy to another, a more effective strategy is to tailor work arrangements based on organizational, regional, and employee needs. If your back-to-office initiatives are failing, the issue may lie within your company culture, not your employees.

Hybrid policies have not met the expectations of many companies. In fact, 74 percent of companies have revised their hybrid work policies multiple times since 2020. Are senior leaders being torn between the desire for in-person collaboration and the need for modern work flexibility?

To achieve the right balance, leaders must recognize that the decision is not about what is easiest or most cost-effective. Using outdated technologies to drive policy decisions does not resonate with the workforce. Leaders need to understand their employees’ daily experiences to provide hybrid technologies that enable flexibility and drive innovation.

Hybrid work offers greater potential than total RTO mandates. Studies show that employees who work three days in the office and two days at home perform better, are more satisfied, and have higher retention rates than those who work entirely in the office.

However, successful hybrid work routines require time and intention. Rushed implementations often fail, as decision-makers may hastily follow competitors’ leads. Organizations need to rebuild their culture around hybrid work, considering each team and individual’s technical and human needs. This requires involvement from all stakeholders, including facilities, IT, operations, and HR. The nuances of hybrid work need to be addressed with equally nuanced policies and technology.

The University of Nebraska has a storied history when it comes to college football. What it didn't have was a centralized location for its current Big 10 football operations. Take SCN Top 50 systems integrator ECC—and a $165 million construction budget for the new Osborne Legacy Complex—and that is no longer the case. Based in Lincoln, NE, ECC has a longstanding 30-year relationship with its hometown college and was the easy choice for the latest addition to campus.

[The Integration Guide to Digital Signage 2024]

The Osborne Legacy Complex dons the name of College Football Hall of Fame coach Tom Osborne, who was a big part of that storied history, leading Big Red to three national championships from 1994-97. Now, the 315,000-square-foot facility is home to Huskers football's entire football operations. This includes a wide array of football offices, meeting rooms, and walkthrough areas, as well as the Ndamukong Suh Strength and Conditioning Center, main student-athlete dining and academic center for all 22 sports, and the Hall of Champions curated experience.

“We will point back to the completion of this facility as a landmark event in everything that happens going forward,” Nebraska athletics director Troy Dannen posted on X to commemorate the official opening of the complex last September.

Less Complex Operations

The complex was a necessity to make things, well, less complex. Prior to the Osborne Legacy Complex, football operations were housed throughout the Huskers football venue, Memorial Stadium, and made simple tasks like coaches' meetings an ordeal that sometimes required walking from one of the interconnected complexes to another.

"The Osborne Legacy Complex was built to invest into one of the most comprehensive student-athlete experiences in the country and bring the Nebraska football program operations under one single, accessible facility," explained Mark Allen, account manager for ECC.

[Diamond Days and Displays]

To make the Osborne Legacy Complex come to life, ECC installed a smorgasbord of Pro AV. However, per Allen, one of the earliest challenges was "meeting the stringent project schedule required to complete such a large-scale project and coordinating the system implementation with the various construction teams’ schedules that directly affected the implementation process."

Construction began in January 2021 and ECC received its project order for the AV systems in July 2022, with the installations process beginning later that fall. All systems were go for this past college football season.

Big AV for Big Red

There is AV aplenty throughout the complex, ranging from high-tech audio, visually stunning displays (like the wall-to-ceiling video wall in the primary locker room), and digital signage systems primarily showing off Husker football promotional content from both current day and historical programs and players.

The video walls were one of the more challenging pieces of the equation. There are a variety of Samsung displays throughout the complex, like the massive 85-inch 4K display in the football equipment rooms and the 98-inch commercial 4K display in the offense and defense staff conference rooms selected by engineering and technical services firm Salas O'Brien.

"The biggest driving piece behind the selection process for the complex’s video walls and displays was due to the product availability in alignment with the project’s timeline," Allen said. "As the project was extremely complex with multiple moving parts, the availability of products began to change based on the timeline at hand, which required strategically changing to some other manufacturers that still achieved the desired high-end quality."

As Allen explained, the audio systems were also a bit tricky as there is not one unified system throughout the complex. Like the displays and projectors, the audio systems were designed and selected by Salas O'Brien and include loudspeakers from Fulcrum Acoustics, subwoofers from JBL, a Holosonics audio spotlight system, and a variety of products from Shure, just to name a few. The systems encompass the entirety of the complex in the Hall of Champions, Ndamukong Suh Strength and Conditioning Center, Hawks Outdoor Practice Field, Athletic Medicine Area, Howard and Rhonda Hawks Gaming Theatre, Brook Berringer Players’ Lounge, Frank Solich Locker Room, Walkthrough Room, Team and Position Meeting Rooms, Bruce Grewcock Family Head Coach’s Office and Lounge Area, and Ricketts Family Football Team Auditorium.

"The bigger systems have interconnection through the QSC Q-SYS Core processors that they operate on—and as such can be interconnected—but these usually run as standalone systems in typical use cases," Allen explained. "The smaller audio systems run exclusively as standalone systems. If there’s a need to, audio can be pushed from the Memorial Stadium core audio system into the core Osborne Legacy Complex audio system utilizing networked QSC Q-SYS Core processors."

Each space has QSC touchscreen displays while Mersive's Solstice wireless sharing allows for content sharing via BYOD devices. Each touchpanel controls AV settings like volume as well as gear, such as Panasonic PTZ cameras.

A prime example of where all the technology comes together is the Brook Berringer Players’ Lounge. Here a Samsung 2x4 video wall and JBL loudspeakers are used by players for entertainment. A theater, located inside, employs a single-display video wall and Fulcrum Acoustic loudspeakers that are powered by a Dolby Atmos and DTS:X home theater processor and QSC power amplifiers.

Now, how about those projectors? Both Christie and Barco projectors were used in different spaces. The Walkthrough Room, for example, uses five 25,500-lumen Barco laser video projectors that are "blended together across a 99.6-foot-long Da-Lite video projection wall to create an interactive space for coaches and players to walk through game plans and simulate real game situations at a 1-to-1 scale," Allen said.

ECC turned to Crestron NVX AV-over-IP technology as the Pro AV control system infrastructure behind the complex's systems. Barco video wall processors power both the Experience Lobby video wall and the locker room’s ceiling video wall to deliver engaging 3D, high-performance content. Multiple Extron switchers were also being used behind the scenes to bring the AV experience altogether.

Sign(age) of the Times

With all these massive video walls and 3D displays, digital signage is found throughout the complex. As Allen explained, digital signage drives the overall experience at the Osborne Legacy Complex.

"Some of the digital signage for this content is tailored to the specific space," Allen explained. "For example, the Hall of Champions serves as the front door to Husker football using interactive displays to tell the story of Husker football."

Another shining example is in the Ndamukong Suh Strength and Conditioning Center, where digital signage details the weekly workout leaders to help the team push each other to excel. A built-in Nutrition Station includes digital signage to communicate the nutritional offerings available to the athletes.

"Outside of this area, there’s a blended projection wall marked the 'ONE PERCENT' that details historical performance and workout statistics to help drive top-tier performance," Allen added. "The Jackson Family Recovery Center features two 1x5 SkyVue outdoor-rated video wall systems that communicate detailed recovery information."

Behind the signage, a Four Winds Interactive CMS, which was already familiar to the in-house technical teams, is used for the more interactive and demanding content. For content that’s more informational, Allen explained, Triple Play serves as the CMS, while doubling as the IPTV system throughout the complex.

"The digital signage and AV systems are operated by an in-house, professional team for Husker football that solely manages and creates content for the facility, with additional management and content creation done by Husker Vision, which is the in-house technology team for all of Husker athletics," Allen said. "The technology is primarily utilized by coaches, student athletes, and in some cases by the student-athlete tutors."

ECC and Nebraska hope that they are both revolutionaries in what has been created on campus. But ECC is not done just yet: Several "add-on options" were proposed. And now that the dust has settled, ECC will help implement them to enhance the already strong core systems and make them more efficient.

[SCN Exclusive: Signage Ahoy!]

"ECC always designs and engineers our solutions with future-growth in mind, and the AV systems at the UNL Osborne Legacy Complex are no different," Allen concluded. "The Pro AV and audio systems are built on Crestron NVX and QSC Q-SYS control systems, which are inherently scalable and will both allow for easy scalability in expanding on these systems."

AVT Question: Please share insights into your company's roadmap and what 2025 holds for customers.

Thought Leader: Gauthier Renard, Product Management Lead, Meeting Experience at Barco

For more than a decade, Barco has been leading the bring-your-own-device (BYOD) market, with ClickShare Conference allowing users to start video calls from their laptops using their preferred conferencing platforms. With more than 300,000 ClickShare Conference devices in use and a strong partner ecosystem, ClickShare has established itself as a pioneer in user-friendly collaboration technology.

As BYOD has always been top of mind for ClickShare, it is no surprise that ClickShare and Microsoft have partnered to focus on Teams BYOD Spaces, empowering companies that rely on the Microsoft suite to maximize the efficiency of their meeting rooms. The partnership represents a strategic shift for Microsoft, expanding its ecosystem to include non-Microsoft Teams Rooms on Android devices and BYOD solutions, setting a new standard for meeting room technology in hybrid work environments.

With Microsoft’s AI assistant Copilot, powerful AI-driven features like voice recognition and attribution that were only available on MTR before will soon be accessible to end users in ClickShare-enabled Teams BYOD Spaces as well. In addition, IT professionals get a holistic overview of analytics for smart device management and planning in the Microsoft Teams Pro Management Portal.

As one of the first manufacturers, ClickShare has also fully embraced Microsoft’s Device Ecosystem Platform (MDEP) as the new standard for Android. MDEP unifies and simplifies the management of collaboration devices, enhances security, and reduces complexity for IT teams.

ClickShare is spearheading the MDEP wave, developing its next-generation ClickShare portfolio with the MDEP platform. This move aims to improve the simplicity and user experience that ClickShare is known for, leveraging MDEP’s robust security and enterprise-grade functionalities.

By joining the MDEP community, Barco’s cutting-edge MDEP-enabled ClickShare products will support smarter, more adaptive meeting environments for customers in 2025.

Well, we made it one whole week without a major Pro AV acquisition in 2025. That streak was broken by Powersoft.

The company made a binding investment agreement to acquire 51% of the share capital of K-Array from H.P. Sound Equipment. The agreement also allows for Powersoft to purchase the remaining 49% of K-Array's share capital. The transaction is expected to close by next month.

By combining its know-how in amplification systems, signal processing, and transducers with K-Array's expertise in compact, high-performance loudspeaker engineering and design, Powersoft will be able to accelerate its expansion in these markets and strengthen its position. The combination will also open up new joint business opportunities and allow for the expansion of business offerings into new market segments within the Powersoft portfolio. Plus, the combined presence of the two companies through their distribution networks will drive greater penetration in high-growth markets such as Asia and Latin America, further consolidating the Group's global positioning. You can get all the details from our initial coverage here.

People News

Cyviz Announces Three Strategic Personnel Moves

Cyviz has promoted Chris Lewis to EVP and GM North America. Lewis oversees sales and operations for the NA region, bringing extensive expertise in driving sales growth and operational excellence.

Following being president NA, Peter J. Stewart serves as EVP BD, Global Alliances and Strategy. With a proven track record in technology strategy and partnerships, Stewart leads efforts to expand Cyviz’s global strategic alliance and partnership programs.

Tim Delaere has joined as NA channel sales director. Leveraging his 25-plus years of AV industry experience, Delaere will spearhead efforts to grow Cyviz NA channel sales with consultants and integrators. These appointments are part of Cyviz’s new GTM strategy to significantly expand its channel sales by deepening collaboration with AV consultants, integrators, and manufacturers.

Datapath Appoints Mark Slinger to Lead Product Management

Datapath has reinforced its senior management team with the appointment of Mark Slinger as VP product management.

Slinger brings 26 years of experience in product management and a strong background in technology and SaaS leadership. He has held senior roles at organizations such as Alderley and Iothic. At Datapath, he collaborates with internal teams, external partners, and customers to drive innovative solutions that support the company’s business objectives.

Slinger's role includes working closely with Datapath’s customers to develop technologies that bring data-driven benefits to working practices. His team is responsible for the next generation of Datapath’s solutions, aimed at bringing even more flexibility and ease of use to video processing and management platforms.

Genelec Strengthens Installed Sound team

Genelec has expanded its international Installed Sound team with the appointment of Anthony Berry as sales support engineer and Andrew Glasmacher as U.S. sales manager. In these newly created roles, Berry is responsible for helping to develop the Genelec Installed Sound brand globally, while Glasmacher supports contractors, consultants, and architects across the United Statesdevelop and cultivate new business relationships and accounts.

Berry recently handled system design and audio commissioning for leading Swedish integrator JML, and technical sales and support for Nordic distributor Scandec. He now works alongside Genelec’s global distribution partners to ensure that consultants, integrators and installers alike can achieve the very best performance from the company’s range of solutions. As well as providing sales and technical support and system design, Berry plays an important role in Genelec’s product development, training, and marketing activities in the Installed Sound segment.

Prior to joining Genelec, Glasmacher worked as regional sales manager for AV rep firm Holloway Sales, handling territory sales in Indiana and Michigan, including the pro audio retail giant Sweetwater. In his new role, Glasmacher ensures the seamless and effective implementation of Genelec Installed Sound technology within the United States and helps to drive Genelec’s continued growth in this key marketplace.

Jackie Freiberger Joins Sound Control Technologies as Western Regional Sales Manager

Sound Control Technologies, a manufacturer of camera, codec, and tabletop technology solutions, has appointed Jackie Freiberger as Western regional sales manager, expanding the sales team to further support resellers and end users across the Western United States.

Freiberger, a seasoned AV professional, brings extensive experience in sales, manufacturing, and distribution across both U.S. and international markets. In her new role, she is focused on driving sales growth, strengthening partnerships, and expanding SCT’s presence in the Western region.

COMPANY NEWS

Audinate and Beijing Film Academy to Offer Dante Certification Training

Audinate and Beijing Film Academy (BFA) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding to integrate Dante Certified Training into the curriculum of BFA’s Sound School department. As part of the agreement, the two organizations established a Dante Certified Training Center at the BFA campus to expand education of IP-based audio and video systems and applications. Through the Dante Training Center, the Chinese film industry will offer a comprehensive series of training opportunities for Dante AVoIP technology and cloud-based applications to expand students’ knowledge and prepare them for future career opportunities.

The BFA is the largest film academy in Asia and China’s premiere educational film production academy. Founded in 1950, BFA developed a multilevel, multidisciplinary cultivation system that embraces the entire spectrum of filmmaking. These disciplines include production, creation, and research, which are used to train future film talent. Accomplished BFA graduates include award-winning Chinese film directors such as Zhang Yimou, Chen Kaige, Tian Zhuangzhuang, Jia Zhangke, and cinematographer/director Gu Changwei.

Over 50 teachers and students gathered at the Sound School’s Comprehensive Media Lab opening to discuss the next generation of film production technology. Party secretary and deputy dean of BFA’s Sound School, Zheng Jiaqing, attended the certification ceremony. Yang Jie, a teacher at BFA’s Sound School, demonstrated how Dante’s technology simplifies and improves the efficiency of the production process.

Neat Bar 2 and Neat Bar Pro Are Now ClickShare Certified

Barco has signed a partnership agreement with Neat to bring greater ease of use and flexibility to meeting rooms. The Neat Bar 2 and the Neat Bar Pro are now ClickShare certified, enabling meeting room users to enjoy an effortless wireless conferencing experience.

Neat offers simple video devices and experiences in an attempt to enable more natural, equitable, and engaging video meetings for a growing customer base of enterprises and small and medium sized businesses around the world. The partnership is a natural fit, since both companies are committed to delivering seamless, easy-to-use video conferencing solutions that enable users to connect and collaborate effortlessly.

The Neat Bar 2 and Neat Bar Pro are now ClickShare certified for the ClickShare Present and ClickShare Conference range. The combined solutions ensure a seamless end-to-end collaboration for ClickShare and Neat customers. What’s more, ClickShare brings native interoperability and ultimate flexibility in the room system setup. Thanks to ClickShare CX-50 2nd generation's automatic switching users can start a video call from their laptop while seamlessly using Neat's high-quality camera and audio for a smooth meeting experience.

Boom Collaboration, Image Star Expand North American Reseller Channel

Boom Collaboration has selected Image Star as an authorized distribution partner for its line of meeting room solutions in the United States and Canada. Through this strategic distribution relationship, Image Star will support Boom resellers with distribution, sales, marketing, and technical support services across the company’s full assortment of cameras, speakerphones, audio/video all-in-ones, and accessories.

Boom manufactures simple and smart hardware solutions for collaboration and conferencing, based on an ethos of delivering ‘better meetings simply’. Boom helps businesses deploy easy-to-use meeting room solutions tailored to any space. Through this relationship with Image Star, Boom can tap the firm’s nationwide distribution network, deep client relationships, and IT and service capabilities to provide distribution support for dealers. Image Star clients will benefit from access to Boom’s high performance AV solutions, lucrative partner program, and comprehensive pre-sale and post-sale support.

LEA Professional Joins Forces with AV Partners

Thousand Oaks, CA-based manufacturer’s representative, AV Partners is now partnering with LEA Professional. This partnership promises to bring LEA’s technology catalog, featuring intelligent IT solutions, DSP, and smart power management, to Southern California residential market customers.

The AV Partners team has over 30 years of experience planning, designing, installing, and calibrating audio and video systems. This partnership will enable AV Partners to offer LEA Professional’s Network Connect series of professional amplifiers and companion Dante Connect series featuring Dante and AES67 connectivity. These series allow integrators to utilize cloud-based remote control, monitoring, notifications, and more from any internet-enabled device, allowing them to stay connected anywhere in the world.

Renkus-Heinz, Aplauz AudioAnnounce New Partnership

Renkus-Heinz announced a new distribution partnership with Aplauz Audio, a Polish distributor of high-quality professional and consumer audio solutions. This strategic collaboration aims to expand Renkus-Heinz's reach in Poland and provide local customers with industry-leading audio solutions.

Founded in 2003, Aplauz Audio has built a reputation as a trusted distributor of premium audio solutions. The company initially started with audio and video cabling and high-quality connectors, but over the years, Aplauz has grown into a key player in the Polish audio market, offering solutions from renowned manufacturers such as Sennheiser, Neumann, Merging Technologies and more.

VigilLink, TEG Announce Partnership

Transformation Entertainment Group and Irvine, Calif.-based VigilLink announced a strategic partnership. VigilLink solutions deliver comprehensive connectivity solutions that prioritize reliability, speed, and security to Pro AV and commercial markets. Its product lines deliver ultra-reliable signal transmission systems and innovative solutions engineered for the unique demands of its customers.

“At VigilLink, we are committed to empowering our partners and customers with cutting-edge AV solutions that transform how people communicate and collaborate,” said Adam Gershon, VP-innovative technologies, VigilLink. “Our partnership with TEG marks an exciting milestone, bringing together our innovative technology and their deep industry expertise to deliver unparalleled value to integrators and end-users in medical, enterprise, education, and beyond. Together, we are set to redefine the standards for excellence in commercial AV distribution.”

If there's one thing we can say about integrators, it's that we know they are not sitting on their laurels. As a result, they make it very tough every year for the SCN editorial team to choose only 10 projects to include in this list. Once again, we had an amazing crop of innovative installations submitted, and here are some of the best that were completed this year.

AdvaMed, Washington, D.C.

TRITECH installed numerous AV systems for the Advanced Medical Technology Association (AdvaMed), a trade association representing the medical technology industry. Various systems were provided in a variety of room types. Divisible multi-purpose rooms feature a large video wall as the main display, with projectors for ancillary displays in divided rooms. Portable confidence monitors, tracking cameras, wireless mics, and a push-to-talk delegate microphone system are supported and controlled through Crestron custom systems. Small conference and huddle rooms are provided with all-in-one videoconferencing systems, while larger conference rooms feature multiple 75-inch displays with tracking cameras, table mics, and ceiling speakers.

Advanced Engineering Building, University of Nevada, Las Vegas

Designed and installed by UNLV’s in-house Classroom Technology Services, three large Nanolumens dvLED video walls provide the newest engineering building on campus with a completely flexible, high impact, creative canvas to engage with students and relay information, events, and messages from a variety of sources to a choice of video displays. One video wall is outside the building, another is in the large Makerspace area, and the third is in the Flexatorium lecture hall. Utilizing a Datapath VSN1172 video wall controller, equipped with three Image2K four-channel graphics cards and eight VisionSC-UHD2 4K capture cards, content can easily be combined in any format from any of the three Visix digital signage players or sources from the Flexatorium. Presenters can dynamically change sources and recall presets from Crestron touchpanels.

Austin Energy, Austin, TX

AVI Systems updated a 10-year-old rear-projection video wall system, removing aging LED engines from 68 existing Barco 4x17 cubes and replacing them with lasers to deliver sharper, more vivid content and provide a longer lifespan. The design also includes the Barco TransForm N advanced control room management suite, Barco Sidebar software, and a Crestron touch control system to improve the system’s overall functionality. The enhanced video wall with additional redundancies helps the team better manage Austin Energy’s power grid, providing new perspectives with the ability to move through different information sources quickly. The system also delivered a better user experience along with reduced eye fatigue thanks to color calibration and improved image quality.

Biodesign Institute, Arizona State University, Tempe, AZ

ASU’s Biodesign Institute partnered with CCS Presentation Systems to install Arizona’s first 3D holographic display. The 15x8-foot HYPERVSN SmartV Wall features LED-equipped fan blades that spin to display 3D content that makes the institute’s scientific innovations more accessible. CCS worked with U.K.-based HYPERVSN to install and calibrate the 18 fans and SmartV boxes, connected through fiber optic cabling. Smashworks provided custom trusses to support the system, while a Keyence security light curtain was integrated to halt the spinning fans if a visitor came too close. CCS programmers developed custom scripting to control the SmartV Boxes via IP using a Crestron control processor. The 15-month project also included two additional 98-inch displays and three equipment racks.

Boston Bruins Heritage Hall, Boston

Heritage Hall at TD Garden, home of the NHL’s Boston Bruins, is an immersive museum experience that brings more than a century of the team's history to life. With design assistance and integration by McCann, AV elements elevate the visitor experience. The Alumni Theater features a high-energy film on a 30x9-foot blended projection that celebrates the Bruins' greatest moments. Interactive displays throughout the hall allow visitors to explore artifacts, stories, and pivotal events in the team's history. With advanced AV technology, Heritage Hall offers an engaging and dynamic connection between fans and the legacy of the Boston Bruins.

Capital One, McLean, VA

Ford AV was contracted to execute a comprehensive AV integration project spanning multiple floors of Capital One's BLOCK A 30-story building. The scope included a variety of meeting rooms, from small and medium-sized spaces to large, high-end conference rooms. AV systems were installed in 338 rooms, including 11 high-end conference rooms, HR interview rooms, mother suites, a FedEx room, and a multipurpose room. Other upgrades included digital signage for menus, background speakers in multiple zones, and a teaching kitchen with cameras and wireless mics for live cooking demonstrations in the food court.

The Jacquelyn, Sacramento, CA

The Jacquelyn is a unique venue dedicated to the legacy of multifaceted artist Jacquelyn Anderson. The space is one part art gallery and one part entertainment venue featuring luxury member clubs, live event spaces, restaurant, wine bar, and more. Sacramento Production Services designed the venue's extensive audio, video, and lighting systems—with the highest attention toward enhancing the art and providing members and guests with a great experience. One of the venue’s visual highlights is a 20x7-foot, floor-to-ceiling video wall (actually composed of two Digital Projection LED video walls with a glass catwalk between them) that displays Anderson’s art and pieces from artists in the Jacquelyn Resident Artist Program. The Jacquelyn also features LynTec's power control and distribution solutions, as well as wireless audio solutions from RF Venue and Visionary’s PacketAV Matrix Series for video distribution to multiple displays throughout the venue.

Rose State College, Midwest City, OK

The installation at Rose State College upgraded audio, video, and control systems across multiple rooms, including a four-way dividable classroom, seminar room, and IT control room, during ongoing building renovations. The 12-month project required close coordination with college administrators, facilities teams, and third-party construction crews to meet the March 28 deadline. Challenges included integrating new systems with existing infrastructure, configuring the central control system, precise hardware installation, and network configuration. AVI-SPL worked closely with Rose State’s IT and facilities teams, as well as external contractors, to address environmental factors like ambient noise and lighting.

Jervey Gym, Clemson University, Clemson, SC

WPS completed the AV and broadcast infrastructure integration for the home of Clemson Volleyball, which is connected to the Watt Family Performance and Wellness Center. The project involved installing Fulcrum Acoustic and JBL loudspeaker systems, Powersoft Unica-series amplifiers, and Sennheiser wireless microphones. WPS also integrated a Midas M32R digital mixing system, QSC Q-SYS CORE 110f v2 DSP with custom programming, and a dedicated audio control network. The broadcast infrastructure included new fiber optic cabling and connection plates for broadcast and AV signal distribution. Plus, LG 4K UHD displays with Extron transmitters were installed throughout the facility tailored for events, presentations, and broadcasts.

Winchester and Rye, Victoria, MN

In 2019, the city of Victoria welcomed Winchester and Rye, a restaurant and whiskey bar owned by Kevin and Kim Heanie. Known for its inviting atmosphere and exceptional food like the coffee chili-rubbed filet and wood-fired pizzas, it quickly became a local favorite. However, the outdated sound system had frequent issues with volume control, streaming, and audio quality. Seeking improvement, Winchester and Rye turned to Cool Home Technology. The upgraded system includes Russound’s MCA-66 six-zone audio matrix and multi-channel amplifier/controller and MBX-PRE audio streaming source device. The new system allowed easy control of music across six zones via the Russound App, resulting in a dramatic improvement in ambiance, enhancing the overall dining experience for guests, and simplifying operations for staff.

SCN: How long have you been with this company, and what are your responsibilities?

Dr. Peru Dharani: I have been at Barco for nearly three years, and I am currently responsible for leading the corporate innovation function of Barco.

[Executive Q&A: A Decade of Innovation]

SCN: How is Barco celebrating its 90th anniversary?

PD: We celebrate by looking back at our legacy with pride and responsibility on how we have contributed to the various technology streams we were part of. At the same time, we look toward the future with equal enthusiasm and aspiration on how we can bring value to our markets and our customers by doubling down on our technology vision.

SCN: The Pro AV industry knows Barco for its extensive display and meeting room solutions, but what other markets do you serve?

PD: At present, Barco serves a wide range of customers across cinemas, immersive experiences, enterprise meeting room solutions, control room solutions, diagnostics, and surgical solutions.

SCN: How is AI impacting Barco’s product line?

PD: AI has obviously a lot of impact in our industry and in our markets. It brings in a lot of possibilities for the products we make today and for the products we are making for tomorrow. It can bring in a lot of efficiency to our compute workflows and in raising the bars in creating more effective insights.

[Barco Control Rooms Gets More Secure—Here's How]

SCN: At InfoComm, I was told Barco’s QDX was the “future of projectors.” What makes this new model so unique?

PD: At the time of its release, the QDX is the world's most compact and lightest projector in its category, with everything at hand to maximize your ROI. Reuse existing gear and TLD+ lenses—and benefit from its integration in Barco’s suite of smart peripherals and software tools. Thanks to our patented, next-generation Pulse electronics with higher bandwidth up to 8K@60Hz or 4K@240Hz and more processing power, you’ll get smoother images and sharper pixels.

SCN: What are some of the important features for projectors that will be used in high-end simulation applications?

PD: For simulator projectors, lifelike images are critical. Trainees typically see their visuals from up close and notice any inaccuracy immediately, which means that the feeling of immersive reality is easily shattered. Resolution, combined with appropriate refresh rate and brightness, needs to be high enough to accurately portray the details of the real world. In multi-projector setups for simulators, badly composed surfaces can quickly lead to negative training experiences. This is where blending and warping technology come in. Edge blending is the alignment of the projectors to remove the visible borders of the overlapping images for a seamless viewing experience. With Barco Pulse, warping and blending capabilities are embedded in the projector software.

SCN: Barco offers several immersive systems, but what is your overall approach to delivering an immersive experience?

PD: Immersive experiences are popping up everywhere. We see breathtaking exhibitions with floor-to-ceiling digital artworks, theme parks with thrilling rides that bring your favorite cartoon figures to life, and planetariums with starry domes that suck you right into the universe. We serve across projection mapping, live events, museums, theme parks, houses of worship, planetariums, and more with our broad portfolio.

At the end, we see that everything around us is a blank canvas. With projection mapping projectors, you can make anything completely change color, texture, and shape. Through the artistic play with light, projection mapping can create the optical illusion of movement on any display surface. It is a visual feast, a new kind of fireworks, an extraordinary form of immersive entertainment with an enormous wow factor.

[What's In Your Conference Room?]

SCN: Is interest in hybrid conference rooms fading or are they becoming more important?

PD: I would say they are getting more important, especially after the pandemic. Hybrid working (in many variants) is becoming the norm now, and it very much benefits both the employee and the employer. This brings even more emphasis on the need for having the right tools and devices within hybrid conference rooms.

SCN: What was the thinking behind ClickShare, and how have customers responded?

PD: Today, less than 15% of all meeting rooms are video-enabled, according to Frost & Sullivan research. With the ClickShare Bar, Barco has introduced a future-proof solution to modernize offices with smaller to medium-sized, video-first meeting spaces that fully cater to the needs of hybrid working. With only one device needed to equip an entire space alongside a display, the deployment for IT managers is significantly simplified, and the installation cost is reduced. Customers have embraced the powerful, all-in-one device that minimizes points of failure, since all collaboration, audio, and video functionalities are consolidated into a single, easy-to-use solution.

SCN: How is Barco addressing sustainability?

PD: Sustainability is a mindset. From producing energy-efficient solutions for different industries to ensuring the ongoing personal development of our teams and the communities they live in, Barco considers sustainability as a key pillar of its work. We aim to:

• lower our own environmental footprint and those of our customers.

• invest in sustainable employability by enabling careers that are engaging, enriching, and healthy.

• build an inclusive workplace that embraces the diversity of our people.

• play an active role in the communities we operate in by upholding the highest ethical and quality standards.

• deliver added value to our customers through our solutions, services, and capabilities. We help ensure more people can participate in and benefit from the innovation society.

[Sustainability: A Pro AV Progress Report]

SCN: What’s next for the Pro AV industry?

PD: Like many other industries, the Pro AV industry is undergoing its own transformation in the face of both digital and AI-related technologies. At the same time, the demands for high quality visualization and collaboration solutions continue to inspire us to bring effective solutions to our customers. We are working on various topics like advanced optical technologies, energy efficiency, and workflow optimization solutions. We are also keeping a close tab on the zeitgeist of today when it comes to customer preferences and cultural choices driven by our society in the face of many changes in the world. All those choices will definitely impact the AV industry directly or indirectly, and we should be ready for those new demands that will be coming our way.

Barco Control Rooms has just released two key updates that help make its CTRL software more secure while improving the user experience.

In order to make control-room environments more secure, CTRL software now has Attribute Based Access Control (ABAC), on top of the legacy Role Based Access Control (RBAC). Traditional access control protocols (such as RBAC) are no longer strong enough alone to create secure control rooms, which is why Barco Control Rooms has added Attribute Based Access Control (ABAC). Now users have access to more precise and secure access management, especially critical when it comes to critical infrastructure.

[Command and Control and Beyond]

Attribute Based Access Control allows users to manage the special cases in a structured way, by tailoring permissions using more data points. The groups used in RBAC can still be used in ABAC but are checked along with other data points before a user gains access. This is more similar to a Venn Diagram than an organizational chart.

This level of fine-grain control and flexibility allows a more secure, dynamic, and personalized approach to permission management. ‘Permissions Creep’ is avoided by the stringent way of attributing rights, allowing a more structured approach than the use of personalized exceptions. ABAC thus allows Barco CTRL to meticulously tailor the correct rights to the people who need them, depending on the situation.

[Network-Enabled Efficiencies for Command and Control]

Additionally, a positive user experience for control-room operators is key in securing the success of these critical operations centers. Thanks to Barco CNTRL’s latest update to version 1.4.0, operators will now have a more seamless user experience across multiple desks and screens that make control rooms more effective, efficient, and intuitive.

These enhancements include:

• Multi-head support for encoder sources
• “Follow me” functionality in CTRLdesk
• Source permissions
• API support
• Portrait displays for CTRLdesk
• VNC sources
• Common RDP
• Common Web
• Interact with Common Web via CTRLwall
• Audio for Wall

New AV/IT products and solutions are unveiled at two distinct times of the year: Integrated Systems Europe at the end of January and InfoComm in June. We reported on the many solutions released during the first half of this year, and now we're combing through collaboration solutions that were announced to set you up for the second half of 2024. This selection is from the winners of the AV Technology Best of Show at InfoComm 2024. Watch for more in the following weeks. 

[Winners Announced: Best of Show at InfoComm 2024 for AV Technology]

[20 Products and Solutions that Facilitate Hybrid Collaboration in 2024: Part 1]

Shure Microflex Wireless neXt 2 Microphone System

In today’s hybrid environments, AV/IT professionals require user-friendly, high-quality audio solutions. Shure’s Microflex Wireless (MXW) neXt 2 Microphone System is a two-channel wireless system that offers an intuitive, all-in-one audio solution for hybrid environments. MXW neXt 2 takes minutes to set up out of the box, simplifying complex installation workflows for AV/IT professionals. It provides high-quality audio for higher education and corporate spaces that only require two wireless microphones, and connects seamlessly to video conferencing systems for remote presenters. The all-in-one base unit combines a wireless access point, docking charger, and onboard IntelliMix DSP to reduce the amount of hardware required.

Barco ClickShare Bar Pro

Barco’s ClickShare Bar Pro is a premium, carbon-neutral, all-in-one video bar that enables engaging, effortless wireless conferencing in medium-sized meeting rooms with any video conferencing platform. Thanks to its advanced AV capabilities (dual screen and 4K content sharing) and interactive features (touchback, annotation, and blackboarding), it enables crystal-clear audio, sharp views, and enhanced interactivity for meetings where all participants feel heard and seen. This solution offers unparalleled flexibility, allowing IT managers to easily equip their meeting rooms. Paired with a five-year warranty, the bar overall reduces the total cost of ownership by consolidating all collaboration, audio, and video functionalities into one powerful device.

ViewSonic ViewBoard IFP92UW Interactive Display

ViewSonic’s ViewBoard IFP92UW Interactive Display, with its unique 21:9 aspect ratio and 5K resolution, provides increased width for more usable interactive areas while delivering stunning visuals for making presentations, producing content, and sharing ideas. Designed specifically for Microsoft Teams Rooms, the IFP92UW is perfect for Front Row, decision-making, and collaboration. The 92-inch display provides up to 33 percent more screen space when compared to an equivalent 4K 16:9 display, and comes with multiple connectivity options including USB-C with 100W of charging, HDMI, DisplayPort, and RS232. It also features dual-pen 40-point touch, allowing multiple users to interact with the screen simultaneously, wireless/cable-free casting and sharing, digital whiteboarding, and remote monitoring and management.

Q-SYS VisionSuite

The Q-SYS VisionSuite represents a shift in intelligent video solutions for educational and collaborative spaces. By integrating cutting-edge AI technology from Seervision with the robust capabilities of Q-SYS, this solution offers a sophisticated and versatile platform that redefines the standards of presentations. At its core, the collaboration between Q-SYS and Seervision establishes an AI-driven presenter tracking system that seamlessly adapts to various presentation styles. Seervision's AI accelerator, powered by computer vision, enables precise presenter tracking and framing, allowing for dynamic adjustments and customization to suit specific preferences.

Jabra PanaCast 50 Video Bar System

Jabra’s PanaCast 50 Video Bar System is an Android collaboration bar to facilitate next-level hybrid meeting experiences. It is an integrated solution with speakers, microphones, video camera, and an Android-based compute unit, as well as a 10.1-inch-high resolution Touch Controller. It delivers all the features and functions of the Jabra PanaCast 50, including the Panoramic-4K 180-degree field of view, Virtual Director, Intelligent Zoom, and Dynamic Composition. It offers a full suite of flexible, scalable deployment options with a one-touch start/join controller, offering a collaboration experience on native UC applications like Microsoft Teams Rooms and Zoom Rooms.

Hall Technologies ComAlert System

Hall Technologies’ ComAlert System is for use in conference rooms, classrooms, or wherever mics or wireless lavalier mics are needed. The system can be used with Hall Technologies collaboration solutions as well as any system capable of accepting a microphone or USB input. The heart of the system is the ComAlert Microphone Controller, named OSIRIS-DSP1, which is a central audio processing device for extending sound pickup systems in classrooms, conference rooms, et cetera. It has a web interface for controlling the unit and easy setup; it can send alert messages to safety and emergency systems; and it provides mixing and DSP control of all connected microphones.

Bose Professional EdgeMax LP

Bose Professional’s EdgeMax LP combines high-fidelity sound with patented directional technology to break free from the limitations of the in-ceiling loudspeaker category, delivering the coverage patterns, high SPL, and frequency response of larger surface-mount loudspeakers, but with a clean visual aesthetic. The secret to EdgeMax speakers’ room-filling sound lies in their patented PhaseGuide technology, directing sound asymmetrically into the room and creating coverage found in no other loudspeaker. All models offer the same impressive output and tonal performance that set EdgeMax apart, allowing you to mix and match between them. The series is designed for easy installation; our QuickHold spring-loaded mounting system and magnetically attached grilles are designed to provide quick access to wiring and tap settings. 

ENCO enCaption Sierra Live Captioning and Translation System

ENCO’s enCaption Sierra Live Captioning and Translation System represents the next generation of the groundbreaking enCaption solution for fast and accurate automated conversion and delivery of captions in AV and broadcast environments. For the first time, enCaption Sierra brings ENCO’s market-leading automated captioning technology together with an SDI captioning encoder to create an all-in-one solution for on-prem environments and containerized deployment options for the cloud. enCaption Sierra’s modern GUI features a simple calendar scheduler and various configuration settings, including custom dictionaries, word models, filtering, and bilingual language options. ENCO has also sharpened the listenability and responsiveness of the system, improving performance in challenging audio environments.

Arthur Holm DynamicCableRetract

Arthur Holm’s DynamicCableRetract is an innovative motorized retractable cable system designed for seamless integration into modern furniture. This cutting-edge solution combines functionality with elegance, offering a user-friendly experience that enhances any living or working space. For added convenience, the DynamicCableRetract can be controlled remotely, by RS-422 and by the wireless App: AHlink. This feature allows the cable to extend or retract from a distance, making it perfect for meeting room tables where all the AV is remotely controlled. And beyond USB-C, the patented DynamicCableRetract is also available with HDMI cables, catering to a wide range of connectivity needs.

Biamp Kleeo Desk Manager

Biamp’s Kleeo Desk Manager is the perfect desk booking device for any office using flexible seating. Primarily for organizations with a workforce of 20 or more persons, the Kleeo is designed to reduce stress at all levels of the organization, while boosting productivity. For the user, the experience often starts with the mobile app; the Kleeo will signal to all workers which workspace is available, checked in, or waiting for the reserved worker to sit at the booked desk. Administrators can utilize the Workplace Admin app to easily set up and administer everything from locations, users, rooms, and desks to analytics designed to help managers make more informed decisions.

HP Poly Studio G62

HP’s Poly TStudio G62 is a modular video conferencing system that brings enterprise-grade video and audio to large and flexible spaces. The Poly Studio G62 seamlessly integrates with various peripherals such as cameras, microphones, and controllers, making it an ideal solution for board rooms, classrooms, and flex spaces. With sustainability top of mind, the Poly Studio G62 is made up of 80 percent post-consumer recycled plastics and 20 percent recycled metals. And it’s a breeze to set up, with flexible mounting options to suit any space. Poly Studio G62 is certified for Microsoft Teams and is pending certification with Zoom and Tencent.

Optoma Creative Touch 5-Series Interactive Flat Panel Displays

Optoma’s Creative Touch 5-Series Interactive Flat Panel Displays offer advanced tools and added functionality, supporting educators and professionals with enhanced learning and remote, real-time collaboration. Enterprise Device Licensing Agreement certification gives users access to the full Google Workspace experience, and the Optoma Solution Suite offers several annotation tools; a file manager; display share; and a digital whiteboard with an improved floating toolbar, customization tools, and an infinity canvas. The next-generation 5-Series is compatible with the Optoma Management Suite. This intuitive display management solution streamlines operations, offering IT administrators and technicians a real-time remote platform to monitor, manage, and diagnose multiple displays simultaneously.

Crestron 1 Beyond Cameras

Newly released 1 Beyond Cameras by Crestron captures everyone in the room clearly. With 1 Beyond PTZ cameras’ broadcast-quality video and optical zoom of up to 20x, AV/IT teams can be confident that they are bringing in-room participants closer without losing resolution. The 1 Beyond cameras deliver a premium experience for both in-person and remote participants that matches the level of professionalism required for meeting room discussions, classroom lectures, or auditorium presentations. 1 Beyond cameras work with Microsoft Teams Rooms and Zoom Rooms software to bring a one-touch join experience to your medium and large rooms with clear, crisp, intelligent video.

Lumens VC-TR60A Voice Tracking Camera

Lumens’ VC-TR60A Voice Tracking Camera is the world’s first professional voice-tracking and motion-tracking PTZ camera. It is also the first cost-effective dual-camera unit that offers both dual video and picture-in-picture output. In all modes, VC-TR60A offers fully autonomous operation, with no need for external processing, dongles, or additional software. It features a six-microphone beam-forming array, allowing the camera to compute the angle of the voice in relation to the camera and immediately focus on that individual to deliver a perfectly framed shot. Additionally, VC-TR60A has multiple video outputs (HDMI, USB, and IP) for integration with AV, video conferencing, broadcast, and streaming platforms. 

Samsung WAD Series Interactive White Boards

Samsung’s WAD Series Interactive White Boards are the brand’s first Google Enterprise Devices Licensing Agreement (EDLA)-certified interactive displays. Powered by Android 13, the WAD Series—available in 65-, 75- and 86-inch models—provides teachers and students with a seamless, intuitive experience. It provides access to educational apps through Google Play, while allowing access to Google services such as Google Classroom and Drive. It offers a natural writing experience with infrared (IR) touch and supports up to 40 simultaneous touchpoints. A three-in-one USB-C port simplifies connectivity and allows connected devices to be charged at up to 65W, and an HDMI output enables easy content sharing.

Owl Labs Meeting Owl 4+

Owl Labs’ Meeting Owl 4+ is an all-in-one camera, speaker, and mic device that combines 4K Ultra HD, 360-degree video with award-winning software and enterprise features to power engaging hybrid collaboration in any space. The flexible, plug-and-play Meeting Owl 4+ is enterprise-ready and takes less than six minutes to set up. Features include upgraded video quality, including a 64-megapixel camera; and wide-range audio, including powerful, 360-degree speakers and smart mics with an 18-foot pickup radius. The Meeting Owl 4+ also pairs with other Owl Labs’ devices to capture 360-degree angles of workplace discussions, so remote meeting participants don’t miss a thing. 

SMART Technologies SMART Board QX for the Modern Workplace

SMART Technologies’ SMART Board QX Pro is a revolutionary interactive display designed to meet the highest demands of IT buyers in business sectors, including those in architecture, engineering, design, manufacturing, and more. The QX Pro boasts a 4K UHD resolution, ensuring crystal-clear visuals that enhance presentations, collaboration, and interactive learning experiences. Utilizing SMART’s proprietary HyPr Touch with InGlass technology, the QX Pro offers a highly responsive and precise touch experience, supporting up to 20 simultaneous touch points. Additionally, the QX Pro is equipped with multiple HDMI, USB, and wireless connectivity options, easily integrating with existing IT infrastructure. It supports seamless connections with devices running Windows, Mac, iOS, Android, and Chrome OS.

MAXHUB XBoard Interactive Flat Panel Series

MAXHUB’s XBoard Interactive Flat Panel (IFP) Series—available in 55-, 65-, 75-, 86- and 92-inch sizes—provides an advanced video conferencing experience and is ideal for daily collaboration sessions. Powered by the MAXHUB MeetingOS, these displays have a built-in three-camera system with advanced AI capabilities (65-inch and above display size) as well as the ability to support active speaker tracking and auto framing. The XBoard IFP Series offers 4K touch displays with a modular PC running Windows IoT. This provides a wealth of interactive capability using a wide range of source content. To ensure superior audio quality, these displays also provide 16 built-in microphone arrays with AI noise suppression. 

Salamander Designs Acadia Tabletop Display Mount

Salamander Designs’ Acadia Tabletop Display Mount empowers effortless, compact conferencing system deployment in under 40 minutes, providing the ideal solution for smaller, retrofit, and temporary spaces while also accommodating traditional meeting rooms. The Acadia Tabletop mount is the first purpose-built tabletop display mount made for video conferencing with on-board equipment storage. It empowers integrators, businesses, and all stakeholders to deploy a sophisticated video conferencing solution most quickly and efficiently, without the need for any construction whatsoever. The Acadia Tabletop is compatible with large screens ranging from 43 to 65 inches and features a universal camera mount for flexible positioning above or below the display to optimize the field of view. 

JVC Professional Video KY-PZ540 Series PTZ Cameras

The multi-award-winning KY-PZ540 and KY-PZ540N PTZ Cameras by JVC Professional are JVC’s first PTZs to incorporate a 40x focal length and are ideal for large event spaces and instances when the need to zoom in from a distance is essential. The cameras feature JVC’s 4K imager and renowned Variable Scan Mapping technology, which dynamically scans the 4K sensor to produce a seamless and lossless image transition up to 40x in full-resolution HD. The cameras also incorporate the brand’s award-winning features, such as AI-enabled advanced SMART auto-tracking operation and NDI-supported IP-based remote operation capabilities. Additionally, presets for exposure, color, and image are included.

DTEN Vue Pro Meeting Camera System

DTEN’s Vue Pro Meeting Camera System is a set of side-mount cameras that work in tandem with AI technology to further enhance video coverage, clarity, and convenience for D7X Series All-in-One Video Meeting appliances. Vue Pro 4K cameras can be installed in seconds, and are cleverly designed to capture in-room participants at eye level, providing up to four additional cameras to provide eye-to-eye connections for in-room participants to interact with remote colleagues. Additionally, Vue Pro’s 4K camera lens systems utilize advanced, smart-framing AI to identify and dynamically frame participants with crisp headshots, regardless of distance from the front-of-room system.

EPOS IMPACT 700

The IMPACT 700 by EPOS is an on-ear, wired USB headset that uses industry-leading microphone technology to deliver rich, natural sound, no matter the level of background noise.

With a rich feature set powered by second-generation EPOS AI, which runs continually within the headset, the IMPACT 700 is designed to isolate and relay incoming and outgoing voices with complete clarity. IMPACT 700 headsets are carefully crafted with a lightweight design and soft memory foam earpads to deliver unprecedented levels of comfort for extended use. Additionally, to protect users’ hearing from all-day audio exposure, the IMPACT 700 leverages best-in-class passive noise dampening and EPOS ActiveGard, which works to prevent loud spikes of sound and supports noise-at-work compliance.

Ikan LBX8-POE

Ikan’s LBX8-POE is a cutting-edge and compact panel soft LED light that is designed specifically for studios, conference rooms, classrooms and various spaces with low ceiling clearance. Engineered for easy installation, this light is simultaneously powered (via PoE++) and DMX controlled (via ArtNet or sACN) through a single Ethernet (RJ45) cable. Boasting high CRI LED chips and a soft panel, the LBX8-POE emits a gentle, wraparound light, crafting artifact-free shadows. With a broad 110-degree beam angle, coverage is extensive, and the sturdy yoke, featuring tension knobs, ensures effortless adjustments and secure placement at any angle. The intuitive yellow control knob on the back, paired with the LED readout, simplifies fine-tuning of brightness, color temperature, and DMX channels.

Sharp 4W-B Series AQUOS BOARD

Sharp’s 4W-B Series AQUOS BOARD interactive display puts collaboration and communication at users’ fingertips in the classroom, workplace, and virtually everywhere else through precise 20-point, multi-touch functionality and versatile connectivity. Key product features include wireless casting, precise multi-touch detection, simultaneous writing for multiple users, and a user-friendly Sharp Pen Software interface. Sharp’s Pen Software gives users access to pen settings and functions to personalize the user experience for stand-out perks like handwriting recognition, whiteboard mode, and overlay mode. The 4W-B Series AQUOS BOARD also includes an HTML5 browser app to allow users to leverage web-based content, an additional feature promoting productivity.

Insta360 Connect

Insta360’s Connect is an all-in-one, dual-camera video bar designed for small- and medium-sized meeting rooms, delivering exceptional audio and video quality that will transform your meetings. Insta360’s first-ever video bar, Connect, seamlessly blends cutting-edge hardware and AI algorithms to provide an immersive and realistic experience for both in-room and remote participants. Connect boasts a dual 4K camera setup, consisting of a wide-angle camera and a telephoto gimbal camera. The two work seamlessly together, capturing 4K group views and individual close-ups for unparalleled visuals. With a 14-microphone array and a cutting-edge 3A audio algorithm, Connect picks up voices from up to 33 feet away with balanced volume, supreme clarity, and a natural, immersive sound. 

The hybrid world keeps turning and meeting equity has been a major focus. Originally, the concept was to get videoconferencing just right with multiple pieces of Pro AV gear—like PTZ cameras, speakerphones, and ceiling mics—bringing remote participants into meetings no matter where they were. But what if there was a way to get all that in one device?

The videobar provides that all-in-one solution and has become one of hybrid's biggest trends. The reason? The simple answer is … simplicity.

[SCN Hybrid World: Expert Insights and 16 Speakerphones to Know]

"With the rise of hybrid work, organizations need video collaboration in as many spaces as possible, and videobars are solutions that are easy to deploy," explained Sam Kennedy, senior director of product marketing, Crestron. “For most bars, all one needs to do is plug in the power, Ethernet, controller, and monitor. Solutions like that—which are repeatable at scale—simplify the process of bringing connectivity and collaboration into every meeting space.”

There are a lot of videobars to choose from, so it's important to remember not all are created equal; some are for huddle rooms, while others are designed for larger boardrooms. So, which is the right videobar for your next installation?

Conference Room in a Box

There are quite a few advantages in selecting a videobar for the current hybrid landscape. As Boom co-founder Fredrik Hörnkvist explained, videobars are literally conferencing in a box.

"They combine a camera, microphone, and speakers in a single unit, simplifying setup and reducing clutter in meeting spaces," added Hal Truax, president, commercial division of WyreStorm. "This integration is ideal for remote communication and virtual meetings, making them a preferred choice in the evolving landscape of workplace communication."

That doesn't mean videobars are 100% the answer for everyone, as they do come with some disadvantages. "As a static device, they are not always ideally suited to larger rooms or multipurpose environments, where people can be sat further away," Hörnkvist observed. "Not all offer the ability of expandable audio. We sometimes recommend a PTZ camera instead for larger rooms."

[SCN Hybrid World: How to Make Room Scheduling Easy]

Advances like the Owl Labs ecosystem are reasons to believe that these disadvantages will improve in the not-so-distant future. "Videobars are, unfortunately, often only placed at the front of the room, making everyone in the meeting look small and clumped together,” said Ben Macdonald, vice president of global sales and channels at Owl Labs. "Everyone joining remotely feels like they aren’t a part of the conversation. When our Owl Bar is paired with the Meeting Owl, you have a front-of-room and center-of-room camera that covers almost the entire meeting space. This helps conversations flow better and allows everyone to feel included.”

"While the disadvantage can be lack of options that address unique organizational needs, continued innovation has successfully addressed this challenge," added Nathan Coutinho, head of analyst relations and business strategy at Logitech. “From the use of AI for improved call quality to offering a variety of sizes and pricing to building products with sustainability in mind, the videoconferencing product experience is elevated to offer mostly benefits and make the purchasing decision tailored and easier. Today’s portfolio of products addresses the core challenges of a videoconferencing solution that is easy to manage and that creates an equitable experience for all participants regardless of where in the room they sit or if they are joining remotely."

AI and Other Features

A videobar has the same goal as any hybrid conferencing solution: Enable all participants to see and be seen and hear and be heard. Thus, most manufacturers and videoconferencing experts agree that video and audio quality is top of mind. It is also important to remember that size matters.

[I Love It Loud]

"Room aesthetics play a part, but ultimately a videobar has to deliver in terms of visual and audio performance," Hörnkvist said. "A high-capacity lens, powerful speakers, and mics are needed for larger rooms."

"The choice depends on the specific needs of the user and the meeting space,” Truax said. “Larger videobars may offer better audio quality and wider camera coverage, suitable for big conference rooms. Smaller ones are ideal for personal use or small meeting spaces and huddle rooms where portability and space-saving are priorities.”

While ensuring that an inclusive conferencing space is established via the technology within the videobar, it is also important to consider the size of the room and where the videobar will be installed—not simply the location in the room, but if it will be attached to a display or rest on a tabletop—because mounting options become pivotal at that point.

"Something one might overlook is cloud vendors’ support of Android versus Windows," Kennedy added. "Typically, Microsoft brings more advanced features to Windows first, so if you’re looking to deploy the 'latest and greatest,' consider a Windows solution. If you're looking for a quick, super-simple solution, Android bars make a lot of sense." Kennedy also reminded potential buyers to make sure the videobar has the right inputs and outputs for the space.

And, of course, what is a Pro AV discussion without looking at artificial intelligence. "Like other products and industries, videoconferencing equipment has exciting opportunities to reimagine how we connect with each other through strategic implementation of AI,” Coutinho said.

“Our research shows that employees are open to increased use of AI in the workplace," Macdonald said. "Our 2023 State of Hybrid Work survey found that 44% of workers believe generative AI will help them do their jobs faster and more effectively in the next five years.”

"AI is becoming increasingly important in videobars for intelligently enhancing both video and audio quality," Truax added. "AI can enable features like auto-framing, voice tracking, noise reduction, and lighting adjustment, significantly improving the overall meeting experience."

[SCN Hybrid World Review: Biamp Helps You Read the Room]

So which videobar fits best in your hybrid workspace? With so many out there from which to choose, SCN has compiled a list of 16 videobars on the following pages to get you started.

AVer VB350

The VB350 was designed to capture all attendees in a meeting while enhancing seamless conversation. The videobar combines dual 4K lenses, 113-degree field of view, and an optical 18x zoom to capture sharp, detailed images of wide and deep viewing angles. AVer’s built-in SmartFrame technology centers meeting participants from up to 22 feet away. It also features Presentation Tracking and Conversation View—the former locates and frames the area around a speaker, while the latter tracks the speaker in real time, smoothly transitioning as new participants enter the meeting and creating a more engaging, immersive experience.

Barco ClickShare Bar

Barco’s new ClickShare Bar enables wireless conferencing in small to medium-sized meeting rooms. Available in two models, it brings ease of installation, a reduced total cost of ownership, and flexibility to the meeting room. The ClickShare Bar Core combines essential collaboration functionalities with high-quality audio and video. The ClickShare Bar Pro adds extra functionalities like advanced AI speaker framing, interactivity features (touchback, annotation, and blackboarding), and a wired room dock for 4K content sharing and alternative connectivity. It also supports dual-screen configurations, allowing people and content to be shown side by side on two displays.

Biamp Parlé VBC 2500a

The Parlé VBC 2500a is an all-in-one, professional-grade videobar for huddle, small, and medium-sized conferencing rooms. It includes a wide-angle 4K PTZ camera with high-quality optics along with auto-framing and auto-focus technology to identify meeting participants and adjust the focus and zoom as attendees move about the space. For audio, the VBC 2500a features a 27-element Beamtracking microphone array across three zones to actively track and intelligently mix conversations. For easy setup, the Launch software automatically determines the acoustics of the room and then optimizes the performance of the bar at the touch of a button. For individuals requiring hearing assistance, the VBC 2500a is compatible with assistive listening systems via a dedicated 3.5mm output connector.

Boom HALO

This all-in-one solution was designed with larger rooms in mind. The Boom HALO features a 4K UHD camera, six microphone array, and high-fidelity speakers for smooth and seamless collaboration. Available in white and black, it boasts many advanced features such as facial recognition, speaker tracking, intelligent noise reduction, and AI auto-framing. Additional ports allow for audio expansion for flexible rooms and growing teams. A 120-degree wide angle field of view, 10x zoom, smart mic array, and 8 MP CMOS sensor ensure an enhanced meeting experience for a variety of spaces. Dual 10-watt speakers and a 48kHz sampling rate provide lossless audio and full spectrum sound for meeting participants.

Bose Professional Videobar VB-S

The Bose Professional Videobar VB-S installs quickly and easily to deliver enhanced performance. With signature Bose Professional audio and a 4K camera, the VB-S delivers a high-quality meeting experience. Featuring a beamforming array of four microphones, which automatically focuses on voices in the room and reduces noise, the camera provides two auto-framing modes—Group and Individual—for sharp video and a wide field of view, ensuring remote participants feel like they’re in the room. Its simple, in-box mounting options, low-profile design, and USB plug-and-play functionality make installation and operation a breeze.

 Crestron Videobar 70

Crestron Videobar 70 is the company’s first all-in-one collaboration bar, extending the options available in the Crestron Flex portfolio. Combining intelligent video, high-quality audio, and Android OS into a single form factor, Crestron Videobar 70 makes it easy to add engaging and productive hybrid meetings to medium and large spaces. Specialized microphone arrays are built into the bar to accurately detect where the audio is coming from—both in distance and direction—for accurate speaker tracking. Purposely designed with beamforming microphones that cover a wider frequency range, the Videobar 70 provides enhanced noise-reduction and increased speech perception.

DTEN Bar with DTEN Mate

The new DTEN Bar is a complete videoconferencing solution designed for small meeting spaces (up to 15 square feet) while accommodating up to seven participants. The small room solution, which can be used with any display, includes the all-in-one DTEN Bar paired with the DTEN Mate tabletop meeting controller. It delivers AI-powered audio and video, combined with simplicity of deployment, use, and management, and flexibility to meet the needs of various room configurations, with a center camera that can be mounted horizontally or vertically (see above). The solution is BYOD capable and is certified for Zoom Rooms (with Microsoft Teams certification expected later this year).

 EPOS EXPAND Vision 5

The EPOS EXPAND Vision 5 is an all-in-one videobar designed to elevate videoconferencing experiences for small and medium-sized meeting rooms. Certified for Microsoft Teams Rooms on Android and Zoom Rooms, the Vision 5 empowers frictionless calls and effective collaboration. Intelligent picture framing powered by EPOS AI adjusts to include all people in the room, while a wide-angle 4K camera with Sony sensors and electromechanical pan/tilt ensures optimal room coverage. Stereo speakers and beamforming microphones guarantee crisp voice pickup as well as effective noise and echo cancellation. Leveraging algorithms and acoustics thanks to EPOS’ BrainAdapt technology, the EXPAND Vision 5 helps the brain focus and orient while in hybrid meetings. Direct USB connection to a PC or Mac lets participants bring their own device (BYOD) and run any UC solution from their laptop.

Jabra PanaCast 50

With its AI-powered, software-defined platform, the Jabra PanaCast 50 Video Bar System is designed to adapt to evolving UC experiences and hybrid workplace needs in any small to medium-sized room. It comes with enterprise-grade security, including encryption on the device through Bluetooth, wired Ethernet, and Wi-Fi (WPA-2 personal and enterprise). The solution also meets the strict security requirements of Microsoft Teams Rooms and Zoom Rooms. The system includes an integrated videobar with speakers, microphones, camera, and Android UC processing power, as well as a 10.1-inch touch controller. It is easy to install, manage, and use, with one-touch start/join.

Logitech Rally Bar Huddle

Logitech Rally Bar Huddle is an all-in-one, appliance-based videobar for huddle spaces and other small rooms. Designed to deliver equitable videoconferencing meetings, it is quick to set up, simple to manage, and easy to integrate with Tap IP through CollabOS. Rally Bar Huddle builds on existing Rally videoconferencing cameras by offering an option for smaller meeting rooms of up to six people and the ability to mount via table, wall, and display.

MAXHUB UC S07

Microsoft Teams certified, the UC S07 facilitates easy setup and operation. Its 4K camera allows for full HD video up to 30fps with a 120-degree field of view, and its Auto Frame feature enables intelligent face detection. The system uses a six-element microphone with a voice pickup range of up to 26 feet, and includes both an 8-watt loudspeaker and a 3-watt low frequency transducer to ensure crystal-clear audio performance with rich low end. The UC S07 is a plug-and-play solution for easy operation and provides connectivity via its USB-C connector, allowing for BYOD functionality.

Owl Bar

The Owl Bar is a standalone front-of-room camera, microphone, and speaker that also pairs with the Meeting Owl device and Whiteboard Owl camera to make hybrid meetings even more immersive. The Owl Bar works wirelessly with a 360-degree, center-of-the-room camera for a complete front-and-center videoconferencing experience. The Owl Labs ecosystem uses its proprietary, AI-powered software to automatically switch between cameras to capture the best view of in-room attendees, enabling more natural face-to-face conversations between in-person and remote participants.

 Poly Studio X52

The Poly Studio X52 videobar is specifically designed for hybrid meeting environments. It simplifies and enhances meetings in mid-sized meeting spaces by ensuring equal participation for both in-room and remote participants. With 20 MP 4K 95-degree FOV camera and innovative audio and video capabilities such as Poly NoiseBlockAI, Acoustic Fence, and Poly DirectorAI smart camera technology, users can expect a premium hybrid meeting experience. The all-in-one design makes setup quick and easy, while users have the flexibility to join the cloud-based video provider of their choice. Plus, IT professionals can remotely monitor and troubleshoot devices with the Poly Lens App.

WolfVision Cynap Videobar

The WolfVision Cynap Videobar is an all-in-one wireless presentation, web conferencing, and collaboration system for meeting rooms. It combines Cynap BYOD wireless presentation technology together with a 4K AI camera, beamforming array microphone with WolfVision Advanced Voice-Processing Engine (WAVE), plus premium-quality speaker system from audio specialist Fohhn. Platform-agnostic BYOM web conferencing functionality enables users to connect wirelessly to the Cynap Videobar and run hybrid meetings directly from a laptop. Whiteboard and annotation tools, a room booking module, and cloud-based remote management software are also included. The Cynap Videobar is suitable for up to 10 people in small or medium-sized hybrid meeting rooms and huddle spaces.

WyreStorm Apollo VX20

The Apollo VX20 seamlessly integrates a video switcher, speakerphone, and camera into a singular, efficient device. Designed for the diverse demands of modern meeting spaces, the VX20 has HDMI and USB-C inputs as well as wireless casting capabilities from Airplay and Miracast devices. A 4K camera comes equipped with advanced functionalities like presenter tracking and AI-assisted adaptive lighting. Additionally, its stereo speakers and expandable microphone capabilities deliver an immersive, room-filling sound, ensuring a clear and precise audio and speech experience for all the users.

Yamaha CS-800

Collaborate and connect easily with the Yamaha CS-800, a video soundbar equipped with a 4K camera, Hexa beamforming microphone, and full-range speaker for comfortable and productive remote meetings in huddle rooms and offices. Using the positioning data provided from both the voice and camera pickup, Yamaha's new SoundCap Eye AI technology pinpoints participant's locations and blocks out unwanted background noise in potentially noisy environments, ensuring that everyone in the room can be heard clearly by the participants on the far end of the call.

Nureva's HDL310 and HDL410 audio conferencing systems are now certified for Barco ClickShare CX-20, CX-30 and CX-50 Gen 2 wireless presentation and conferencing devices. This certification brings simplified Pro AV performance to larger Barco BYOM (Bring Your Own Meeting) spaces. By combining Nureva’s next-generation plug-and-play audio systems with Barco’s ClickShare solutions, users can enjoy a painless and engaging collaboration experience that is easy for IT to deploy and manage throughout their organization. With the ClickShare Button, meeting room participants can start a wireless video meeting or share content on the meeting room display. It’s as easy as plugging the USB-C device into their laptop and, within seconds, the user is automatically connected to the meeting room display, Nureva® audio system, camera and any other AV peripheral. With just a USB cable and no complicated wiring, the Nureva audio system is automatically recognized and ready to deliver full-room audio coverage. 

[AVer, Nureva Collaborate for New Meeting Bundle]

Setting up, managing, and deploying the HDL310 and HDL410 systems is simple, making them ideal for scaling across large organizations and higher education institutions. The systems deliver uncompromised audio quality in even the most expansive meeting spaces. With the HDL310 providing pro AV performance in rooms up to 30x30 feet (9.1x9.1 m) and the HDL410 system offering the same exceptional quality in extra-large spaces up to 35x55 feet (10.7x16.8 m), Nureva ensures that no participant is left unheard within the room. All Nureva audio systems are powered by Microphone Mist technology, which fills a room with thousands of virtual microphones, so people’s voices are picked up everywhere. The system autocalibrates at setup and continuously during use. It senses and automatically adjusts to changes in room characteristics, eliminating the need for IT staff intervention. With numerous patents issued in a several countries, Microphone Mist technology is a revolutionary advancement in audio conferencing.

[A Meeting Equity Progress Report] 

“Providing a consistent experience across all types of meeting rooms is one of ClickShare’s key strengths. Our strong ecosystem of partners plays a crucial role in bringing the highest level of video and audio,” said Dan Root, global strategic alliance lead, meeting experience at Barco. “In large spaces such as training rooms and boardrooms, Nureva’s differentiated approach offers an outstanding audio experience. Our joint solution brings engaging meeting experiences for both in-room and remote participants, ensuring meeting equity, simplicity and ease of use.”

Not all participants of video/collaboration meetings come across an equal experience—it may be that the remote participant isn’t equipped with the appropriate technology, or perhaps the company boardroom hasn’t been set up optimally to be able to hear and see all the participants in the room. Whatever the reason, there is real focus from many organizations that all participants should enjoy a first-class experience, whether they are on site or remote. 

[Viewpoint: A Meeting Equity Progress Report]

These conflicting scenarios have spawned yet another post-pandemic addition to our work vocabulary: meeting equity. Whether your designation is hybrid, remote, or on site, it means everyone’s meeting or classroom experience is equal in terms of quality, access, and collaboration. Everything is equal. The term is gaining traction as more organizations and educational institutions embrace hybrid models that mix remote and on-site interactions for work and learning.

Finding the Balance

It’s unlikely we’ll ever see fully on-site attendance as we did in the pre-COVID era, but there is a push to bring employees and students back to the office or on campus, at least for part of the week. The challenge for employers and administrations is achieving the right balance of flexibility and productivity that satisfies all parties. While many questions are still unanswered, one certainty is technology will play a critical role, especially when it comes to meeting rooms and the collective meeting experience.

Recent research by Metrigy illustrated how organizations are expanding their use of videoconferencing, with approximately 57% of respondents increasing deployments of videoconferencing systems for meeting rooms. More than 80% of meetings will now be likely to have a remote participant, so meeting rooms will have a greater need for video and collaborative technology.

[SCN Hybrid World: How to Make Room Scheduling Easy]

AV/UC estate managers in corporate and higher ed are under increasing pressure to design and support more efficient meeting spaces, especially as hybrid meeting and learning becomes more common. These managers and IT support staff are plagued with two key challenges: They need to ensure remote workers can effectively share ideas and collaborate with their colleagues who are physically in the meeting room, all while making sure the collaborators within the room can participate in conversations happening amongst the remote employees, typically via chat.

When it comes to designing hybrid meeting or teaching spaces, the focus is now on the outcome and the total experience delivered by the technology—and this is influenced by the equipment selected and how it is managed. Simply put, the tech just has to work.

Even research from our Alliance partners, Barco, shows that hybrid workers are still concerned about being perceived as inequal and less productive than their on-site colleagues. A recent ClickShare Hybrid Meeting Survey found 35% of workers have trouble fully engaging during hybrid meetings, 28% struggle to have their voices heard in hybrid meetings when they are not physically in the room, and 56% of remote/hybrid participants believe meeting leaders cater too heavily to in-person attendees when conducting conversations.

We’ve all seen this trend time and again. People gathered in meeting rooms make side comments that are inaudible to remote workers. It’s often difficult for off-site participants to “read the room,” and it can be awkward to know when to break in and insert commentary. And maybe somebody else ends up presenting the slides from the remote worker because they can't operate the presentation from another location.

The focus always used to be technology first, but no one ever really gave meaningful thought to participation. More organizations are now focused on the human element, making sure the use of technology is focused on the user or the participant. Today, the priority is enabling strong two-way visual contact, so everyone can share documentation.

Proactive Service Management

This shift of focus also means the role of the service department needs to be adjusted. Hero-based support—rushing in to save the day when technology falters—is the old way. Service management needs to change from reactive to proactive. With tools like room monitoring and automated testing, the AV/IT service team can identify potential issues before they become major problems, and therefore help guarantee a great experience for the users.

[Executive Q&A: NEARITY Moves Toward Meeting Equity]

In the modern workplace, classroom, or teaching space, utilization and performance data is the key to success. It helps managers understand room and equipment usage trends, as well as the difference between room occupancy and bookings. For example, there may be a 10-person meeting room that shows as reserved 99% of the time on the booking system. But once the occupancy of that room is measured, teams may learn that it's occupied only at 30% capacity, because only three people typically use the room.

Data helps estate managers use their resources more efficiently to make smarter business decisions, which is also important because energy has become so ridiculously expensive. Yes, employers have more of a social conscience, but it simply makes economic sense: Why pay to heat and light a larger room when a space 2/3 the size will do?

Technology such as Utelogy’s Management and Monitoring platform provides valuable insight and actionable intelligence to a wide variety of stakeholders such as IT, AV, facilities, finance, and HR teams. Its software tools provide instant alerting and reporting, as well as proactive management using automation and control.

It can even report on power consumption to help manage energy usage. With scheduling and automation tools, it is possible to power down whole areas against a pre-defined schedule or when not in use through a trigger integrated with an occupancy sensor. As a result, companies can save significantly on their energy bills for collaboration devices. This type of “smart” management creates a dramatic reduction in the total cost of ownership of an AV estate, while keeping the user experience at a high level.

[Viewpoint: The Struggle for Presence Equity Is Real]

All this tracks back to the original concept of meeting equity. The only way to achieve enterprise-class service and a great user experience is to have a toolset and methodology that enable proactive support and great real-time and retrospective data—and, of course, the right equipment that can be managed and monitored.

Instead of simply making technology available, an organization can now use the insight and understanding delivered from its management toolset to ensure the workplace equipment is delivering the outcome that’s needed by the users. With this knowledge and a proactive methodology, it is becoming possible to achieve meeting equity.

Kindermann, a Pro AV manufacturer and distributor based in Germany, achieved a final victory at the Court of Appeal in Den Haag, Netherlands, against Barco. The ruling confirms that in the Netherlands, Kindermann did not infringe upon the asserted ClickShare patent of the Belgian company with its Klick&Show collaboration solution.

[Yamaha Is First Certified Klick&Show Partner—What That Means for You]

As early as 2021, the Dutch court of first instance rejected the accusation of patent infringement, even if the patent was assumed to be legally valid. Barco appealed at that time. The Court of Appeal in Den Haag confirmed the first instance decision and revoked Barco’s patent in the Netherlands on July 18, and also confirmed the revocation of Barco's patent in the Netherlands after Barco withdrew its appeal.

“We are very pleased that the patent dispute in the Netherlands has now been concluded," said Timo Meißner, managing director, Kindermann. "This also ensures legal certainty for our trading partners. We have been continuously developing Klick&Show in the meantime. The result are universal BYOM & BYOD solutions that ideally meet the requirements of the new worlds of work and education.” 

[A Utelligent Choice—Utelogy Joins the Barco ClickShare Alliance]

According to Kindermann, proceedings on the validity of Barco’s ClickShare patent continue at the European Patent Office. The EPO has revoked the patent, but Barco has appealed against this.

Systems Contractor News received this response from Barco:

"The verdict in the Netherlands is related to an infringement dispute in the Netherlands on one older patent of ClickShare which has been invalidated by the European Patent Office end of 2021. Related to this particular patent, there is still an ongoing procedure running with the European Patent office, where Barco is appealing the revocation of this particular EU patent.

"The impact of this verdict is minimal. The ClickShare portfolio has evolved significantly over the last decade as well as Barco’s patent portfolio related to wireless presentation and conferencing. Today, Barco has obtained more than 60 granted patents on various unique capabilities of ClickShare in major jurisdictions like EU, U.S. and China. The patents cover a broad range of innovative wireless presentation and conferencing features, underlining ClickShare’s simplicity and ease of use. 

"Barco continues to closely monitor the wireless presentation and conferencing market and will enforce its intellectual property rights against companies copying ClickShare’s unique features."

At 4 p.m. on Friday, June 16, the announcement rang through the Orange County Convention Center to officially close the InfoComm 2023 show floor. I had just squeezed in one last booth visit with display company i5LED—and that was after sneaking into Datapath’s booth to learn about its new VSN V3 video processor.

[Show Floor Insights: 3 Headlines from InfoComm 2023]

Yes, my InfoComm dance card gets full in a hurry, and then it gets overstuffed. I don’t see that changing anytime soon—just too much to see. And hear.

For example, I got to listen to the new IsoFlare series of ceiling speakers from AtlasIED. Beyond the amazing sound, I was impressed when AtlasIED’s president/CEO John Ivey went off script in the middle of the press conference and started talking fervently about a safety clamp on the ceiling speakers. I used to be a production guy—I’ve hung my share of lights, and I was incredibly steadfast in the use of safety chains (still am). I appreciate the quality of the new speakers, but I really appreciate Ivey’s commitment to safety.

“Culture eats strategy for breakfast.” That expression is usually attributed to management consultant Peter Drucker. Gilad Yron, Kramer’s CEO, brought it up during the company’s press event. He said part of the company’s new strategy was culture—supported by building a strong regional infrastructure. Kramer is also making a big investment in software, even though the company is still mostly known for its hardware solutions.

[SCN 1-on-1: AVIXA Industry Insights from InfoComm 2023]

Apparently, that strategy is working, with double-digit growth for the company in 2021-22, according to Yron. Despite some macroeconomic headwinds, he said the company is still experiencing double-digit growth in 2023, with the United States leading all regions. 

Sustainability is also important to me, and it was nice to see so many companies making real commitments. Barco, for example, was showing off the second generation of its ClickShare CX-50. For those of you who didn’t get the demo on the show floor, the CX-50 enables wireless conferencing for meeting rooms.

Yes, the technology promotes meeting equity, and Barco was certainly touting its features and benefits. But the company had another story to tell: The CX-50 earned the CO2 Neutral Silver label from CO2logic, a climate advisory organization. The certification even included an external audit by an independent third party. Keep up the good work, Barco.

[3 Things Everyone Was Talking about on the InfoComm 2023 Show Floor]

Finally, let me call out two very different new products from the show floor that really impressed me. The first won’t surprise anyone who donned a VR headset for the demo. X-VRSE, XTEN-AV’s VR solution, lets you visualize and design your AV solutions in an immersive, virtual environment. Now this is how you take proposals to the next level.

On the other end of the spectrum was Visix’s Choros booking system. Scan a QR code at a shared space with your smartphone and book it. That’s it. Really. There’s no app to download and no hardware to maintain. It’s a cloud-based solution that uses AR technology to make it almost too easy to book a conference room.

What will they think of next? Guess we’ll find out next June in Las Vegas. See you there.

When the World Outreach Church wanted to launch its “Sanctuary of Scripture: The Walk Way” capital campaign, it turned to the Nashville-based DWP Live team. The church, in partnership with DWP Live's CEO Danny Whetstone's team, is providing an innovative and emotionally engaging initiative with PIXERA media servers and Barco projectors to raise funds for the expansion and improvement of the church’s current campus facilities.

One part of the multi-faceted campaign included an installation consisting of mapped indoor projections to display stunning, interactive imagery for visitors as they walk through the campus’ pedestrian-only spaces.

[Ready Player One: 9 Media Players for Your Next Digital Signage Experience] 

Fivestone Studios’ Traylor Woodall enlisted DWP Live to help transform their concept design, storyboards and custom created content into an inspiring projection mapping visitor experience, which would become an integral part of the on-site presentation of the fundraising campaign.

A PIXERA media server license installed on custom-built DWP Live hardware and two Barco UDX 4K32 projectors were the key equipment components of the installation.

[Nike Just Did It... Again—Check Out This Ridiculously Cool 3D Air Max Billboard]

One of the practical challenges during the setup process involved covering a number of designated glass surfaces, while leaving the connected mullions and architectural elements exposed. "We decided to custom paint foam core to match the walls, so that there was no color shift across the projection façade," explained Whetstone.

In order to focus on the simplicity and user friendliness of the final installation, the DWP Live team created a content loop and connected the lighting elements via timecode, resulting in a “one button go” control setup for the team running the content throughout the duration of the visitor experience.

“I really love the intuitive simplicity of the main PIXERA GUI, which allowed us to easily and efficiently deliver native 4K content to the projection system," Whetstone shared. "The ability to sync the GrandMA lighting console via timecode was another plus, because it meant that the lighting looks could chase the timeline perfectly without requiring additional operators for such a long run of show.”

[SCN Top 50 Systems Integrators 2022] 

The World Outreach Church’s executives and their tech team were so impressed with the final setup’s impact, reliability, and ease of use, that they decided to extend the original run of the installation by an additional three weeks.

AVT Question: Please share insight into the current state of networked AV and control; what you see as barriers to entry; and what advice can you offer on how AV/IT managers can overcome limited resources or a lack of buy-in.

Thought Leader: Chris Mertens, Vice President of US Sales, B2B Displays at Samsung Electronics America

It’s not uncommon for AV equipment to show its limitations before end-of-life. Users can begin to experience usability challenges that impede operations and the desired returns on investment.  

At the Stevens Institute of Technology, its multimedia services team had invested in digital whiteboards to connect in-person and remote students for hybrid learning. But in addition to being expensive, the whiteboards required intensive setup and back-end infrastructure. Professors became frustrated by a significant lag time when writing on the boards, which disrupted the pace of learning.

Stevens’ multimedia team evaluated interactive displays as a more optimal solution. The displays were easy to set up and use, and were affordable. Importantly, they came with built-in videoconferencing and a responsive, realistic writing experience—which were critical to the hybrid classroom. Instead of being frustrated with technology, teachers and students now enjoy more immersive, collaborative learning. Seeing these successes, Stevens’ multimedia team is planning to install interactive displays across its entire campus.

Stevens’ story offers several takeaways for AV/IT managers who are considering updates to existing equipment:

First, develop a detailed plan, including installations and a budget for hardware and software. Consider the total cost of ownership of new solutions, including initial purchases and projected costs over time. Second, involve end users in the purchasing discussions. Listen to their ideas and concerns, and check in regularly following deployment. Ensure that you’re providing proper training and ongoing support for their success. And third, have strategic measures of success, including quantitative benefits like anticipated cost savings. Consider qualitative goals, such as how Stevens’ leaders wanted to raise productivity and improve engagement in a new hybrid learning environment. 

By planning with budget, total cost of ownership, and targeted outcomes in mind, you can make smarter IT decisions and demonstrate the value of new investments.

AV Technology's Thought Leader Series on AVoX

Check out what other industry thought leaders have to say about the state of networked AV. A full list with links can be found at the bottom of the On AVoX, the Intro Article

AVT Question: Please share insight into the current state of networked AV and control; what you see as barriers to entry; and what advice can you offer on how AV/IT managers can overcome limited resources or a lack of buy-in.

Thought Leader: Samuel A. Recine, AIMS Pro AV Working Group Chairperson; Vice President of Sales AV/IT Group, Americas and Asia Pacific at Matrox Video

Academically, everyone understands the benefits of moving to networked media over IP; there is an infinitely better distance story and many more devices can be supported concurrently. Additionally, the performance is now well-proven. The possibility of gaining synergies and leveraging new converged workflows by combining data, communications, and rich media on the network is very alluring. 

AV and IT teams also still need to get things done, however. Things must be secure, and we need end users to be able to access the technology in a way that’s either familiar to them or whereby learning something new is easy and has a noticeable, immediate benefit.

Individual rooms and projects are different problems, compared to system design, when it comes to managing a very large group of assets and organizational goals through time. AV and IT are going through the same system design considerations that broadcasters are going through with the migration from SDI to IP. The work done over the last 10 years that has been influenced by a nuanced balancing of end user needs with manufacturers' realities and the evolving capabilities of services providers is finally paying off with open standards such as SMPTE ST 2110 and IPMX. Some system-wide new architectures with scale and scope and a healthy ability to keep evolving into the future are now in use and providing huge gains in workflow efficiencies, new abilities, and asset management.

It is reasonable for stakeholders to balance between short-term needs and long-time system evolution. Stakeholders are getting better every day at understanding the moving parts and building their strategies. With remote work thrust into focus by the pandemic, the use of high-reach technologies are balanced versus goal-driven rich experience technologies. Whether the missions are high-impact live operations, organization-wide communications, teaching/learning, or entertainment—there are few cases of one-size-fits-all, and many cases where there are a high number of options for assembling solutions and reaching organizational goals. Both IT and AV skills are being flexed in new ways.

Like other organizations contributing useful ingredients to IP-based systems, Matrox provides hardware and software to help capture, store, process, transport, share, and secure audio-visual media over IP, and fuse IT/PC-based workflows with pro AV workflows.

Whether operating at the high-stream-density end of the Matrox portfolio or the high-performance end of it, Matrox espouses the values of Zero Trust in cybersecurity and open standards in media asset management. Among many others, this also includes Matrox’s products that are designed to support and evolve with SMPTE ST 2110 and IPMX.

AV Technology's Thought Leader Series on AVoX

Check out what other industry thought leaders have to say about the state of networked AV. A full list with links can be found at the bottom of the On AVoX, the Intro Article

Barco is launching the 2nd generation of its CX-50, the premium ClickShare Conference model. The renewed model brings more flexibility for the IT manager and offers an inclusive meeting experience for end users in high-impact meeting spaces.

A recent global research report issued by the professional services firm JLL stated that large-scale adoption of hybrid work is a paradigm shift. Navigating, implementing, and managing this new world will depend on intelligent and enabling technology.

[SCN Hybrid World: Seeing Is Believing with Conference Cameras] 

“In a hybrid environment, technology is crucial in giving all meeting participants an equal voice and making collaboration truly successful,” said Stijn Henderickx, executive vice president, meeting and learning experience. “ClickShare Conference helps increase engagement and connection between participants in hybrid meetings.”

Three features to know:

• Dual screen empowers hybrid meeting inclusion for end users: ClickShare CX-50 2nd generation brings dual screen support, allowing content to be shown on two room displays side by side. During video meetings, one of the screens is dedicated to the remote participants, where they remain visible at all time thanks to the smart meeting flows of the ClickShare App. This ensures a more equitable experience for all meeting attendees, no matter if they join remotely or in-room. Just like the entire ClickShare Conference range, the new CX-50 2nd generation works with any device, any videoconferencing platform, any peripheral, and in any type of meeting room.
• Flexible integration and management for IT managers: The ClickShare CX-50 2nd generation adds native interoperability to fixed room system set-ups by enabling automatic switching between Room mode and Bring Your Own Meeting mode. This allows users to easily switch between the fixed room system setup and other videoconferencing solutions. Connectivity options are simplified, with a single USB-C cable between the Base Unit and room display to power the device and send video output to the display. IT managers are able to meet strict internal security policies with both a wireless and wired alternative. The combination of easy management via the XMS Cloud platform, SmartCare coverage and the agnostic nature of the product, makes the CX-50 2nd generation the smartest investment in the workplace of the future.
• One of the first carbon-neutral collaboration solutions on the market: Sustainability in product design is fundamental to Barco. All ClickShare devices have the A++ ecolabel in Barco’s transparent scoring. The smart eco-design of 2nd generation products is reflected in ecological design choices, higher energy efficiency and better material use, with housing fabricated from recycled, non-paint plastics.

In addition, Barco ClickShare aspires to introduce the CX-50 2nd generation as one of the first carbon-neutral wireless conferencing solutions on the market, which is a natural extension of Barco’s corporate values and leading, ambitious sustainability strategy.

[Road to ISE 2023: Products, Updates, News at AV Network ISE 2023 Central]  

“By investing in people and planet with a well-balanced carbon footprint, ClickShare is committed to bringing customers the most sustainable, compliant, and flexible solution in the workplace. With one of the first carbon-neutral solutions in the industry, ClickShare is proving its position as an innovator in the collaboration and conferencing market,” Stijn Henderickx concluded.

ClickShare products will be in action at ISE 2023 in Barcelona, booth 3D400.

AVT Question: Please share insight into the current state of networked AV and control; what you see as barriers to entry; and what advice can you offer on how AV/IT managers can overcome limited resources or a lack of buy-in.

Thought Leader: Michael DiBella, Director of Commercial Product Marketing at Crestron

Honestly, I think the biggest barrier is one of mindset, given the technology we’ve developed. There’s a resistance to migrating from a processor—a piece of hardware, a device one might perceive as easier to manage and control—to a network that can expand.

If there’s a determination that a company is willing to entertain a software solution, there’s another variable: Is it on-premises or off? I’d be willing to bet that most IT professionals would be more comfortable with an on-premises software solution; it’s less of a “giant step,” especially given the importance of data integrity, security, and so on. 

I think that once one understands the benefits of a software solution, it’s an easier sell. These solutions come with incredible cost savings in terms of the ongoing management of that control system. Instead of managing tens, if not hundreds, or even thousands of individual processors across individual rooms, floors, and buildings, now you’re managing a few servers (or even just one) controlling hundreds or even thousands of rooms.

It’s vastly easier to update that single server with a general software update than pushing out firmware updates to all of these different processors as well. Additionally, with the right software, one can integrate existing hardware into the overall solution.

Here’s an example: We’re seeing more and more deployments of video walls and signage. You might have an existing Crestron control processor in a conference room, but now you want to interact with that video wall. You could now use a solution such as VC-4, Crestron’s virtual control; it’s easier to deploy, and as that processor hits the end of its life, you merely buy an additional license for that room and retain all the functionality.

AV Technology's Thought Leader Series on AVoX

Check out what other industry thought leaders have to say about the state of networked AV. A full list with links can be found at the bottom of the On AVoX, the Intro Article

AVT Question: Please share insight into the current state of networked AV and control; what you see as barriers to entry; and what advice can you offer on how AV/IT managers can overcome limited resources or a lack of buy-in.

Thought Leader: Rich Ventura, Vice President of B2B at Sony Electronics

As AV/IT managers plan for the future with limited resources and rigid infrastructures, both proper planning and establishing goals at the onset of a project help keep things on track from a timeline and budget perspective. AV/IT managers should also take advantage of the copious benefits available from manufacturers, such as integrated solutions, warranty programs, and bundles.  

Companies including Sony are providing more transparency to the community by providing important resources such as field-based sales support engineers, technical product documentation and key product specifications, building information modeling (BIM) content, CAD drawings, case studies and white papers, among others. These valuable resources provide a more accessible way to inform, plan, specify, and integrate a project. AV/IT managers should also consider flexible technologies that can accommodate various infrastructures and installation methods. Additionally, scalable technologies that can grow with the customer—through software and firmware updates to unlock new capabilities—allow users to get the most out of their technology without paying for unnecessary features. Selecting trusted, dependable manufacturers that provide compatibility among key partners is also critical to ensuring a seamless installation and longevity. 

AV Technology's Thought Leader Series on AVoX

Check out what other industry thought leaders have to say about the state of networked AV. A full list with links can be found at the bottom of the On AVoX, the Intro Article

AVT Question: Please share insight into the current state of networked AV and control; what you see as barriers to entry; and what advice can you offer on how AV/IT managers can overcome limited resources or a lack of buy-in.

Thought Leader: Justin Kennington, President of the SDVoE Alliance

AV over IP is a fast-growing market. The need for solutions that can support 10 Gbps and deliver true 4K is driving the adoption of IP-based solutions. The rapid innovation of IP-based solutions has disrupted the industry, with different approaches to AV over IP being introduced, leading to a mashup of IP-based solutions that do not deliver a unified solution. The IP mashup has caused immense barriers to entry due to the lack of interoperability. This will only become more complex and create even more significant disruption unless it’s addressed head-on. 

Fortunately, the SDVoE Alliance continues to address today’s AV over IP discrepancies with a completely interoperable full-stack solution. The SDVoE Alliance is the only solution to provide an interoperable solution. Other platforms are either vendor-proprietary or fail to meet full-stack requirements, leading to future interoperability challenges. 

Together, the SDVoE Alliance’s members provide over 700 solutions designed to integrate seamlessly and flexibly to provide system integrators, designers, consultants, and installers with a reliable, sustainable solution. SDVoE technology provides an end-to-end hardware and software platform for AV extension, switching, processing, and control through advanced chipset technology, common control APIs, and interoperability. SDVoE’s off-the-shelf capabilities eliminate the need for manufacturers and users to patch together solutions from many pieces, and, as a result, eliminate traditional barriers to entry for professional AV applications.

AV Technology's Thought Leader Series on AVoX

Check out what other industry thought leaders have to say about the state of networked AV. A full list with links can be found at the bottom of the On AVoX, the Intro Article

DWP Live was recently engaged to provide projection support for the U.S. premiere event of “The Way of the Rain (TWOTR): Hope for the Earth” on October 22, at the Meyerson Symphony Center in Dallas, TX.

The DWP Live team projected TWOTR’s “Mother Earth” film onto the stage, choir, and orchestra throughout the performance of “Hope for the Earth” with disguise media servers and Barco projectors. Specifically, DWP Live used two Barco UDX 4k32 projectors and two disguise 4x4 media servers for the event.

 [9 Large-Venue Projectors and Key Features Experts Recommend as Live Events Return] 

“We’re grateful to this important partnership for allowing us to be part of such impactful performances and events for the last six years,” said Whetstone. “As a member of TWOTR’s advisory board, this presentation was particularly meaningful in promoting public awareness and support for the protection of our Earth, and we are proud to help bring another memorable TWOTR event to life.”

[DWP Live leverages Epson Pro Series for 'Night Visions' at the Nashville Zoo]

Presented by the Dallas Symphony Orchestra and EarthX Film, the performance tells the artistic story about the formation of the Universe and Planet Earth while calling attention to the earth’s vulnerability brought on by climate change and included spoken word by Robert Redford. The Dallas Symphony Orchestra accompanied this multidisciplinary environmental performance and was conceived and directed by Sibylle Szaggars Redford in collaboration with composer Tim Janis and performance film artist Floyd Thomas McBee.

Barco is collaborating with Igloo Vision for enhanced shared virtual reality experiences.

Igloo Vision was founded in 2008 with a focus on projection mapping software for live events and experiences. Later its focus shifted to corporate rooms and shared virtual reality. From its bases in the UK, the United States, Canada, and Australia, the company has delivered hundreds of immersive workspace installations around the globe for all kinds of applications such as simulation, visualization and collaboration by clients in education, engineering, enterprise, and many more.

An Igloo immersive space is built using an Igloo Vision Media Player, which holds the software that can turn any room into an immersive shared VR experience. It takes any digital content and puts it in an immersive space. It is like stepping inside a giant VR headset with an entire group.

[Barco Is Ready for 'New Chapter' for Pro AV Industry]

To visualize the content, the Igloo team works together with system integrators and visualization hardware providers, such as Barco.

“We had an interesting conversation with the Barco team during the ISE 2022 tradeshow in Barcelona about their shared VR visualization solutions,” said Jake Rowland, head of business development EMEA at Igloo Vision. “We want to make our technology available to anyone around the world. In working together with Barco, we expand our reach and make the shared immersive spaces easier to access and install.” 

“Barco’s expertise with the high-end Canvas and CAVE systems strongly complements Igloo’s vision on shared VR experiences,” confirmed Richard Marples, sales director immersive experiences at Barco. “Both our companies have a strong focus on immersive visualization and improving collaboration everywhere, so this is an ideal partnership."

[AV Network's top stories, product news, and expert insights] 

Since the official agreement, Barco and Igloo Vision already delivered two cutting-edge immersive workspaces for a leading sports brand and a well-respected university. 

The category of “all-in-one” LED, and dvLED displays hit the scene a few years ago. I saw the first one at Optoma’s Digital Signage Expo booth in 2019. But that’s when we were all still going to trade shows. Since then, several more display companies have launched an “all-in-one,” and a few were showing at InfoComm 2022.

These “all-in-ones” have a few things in common, but the top-selling point is that you can install a 200-inch display in two (or maybe four) hours. The idea is brilliant because one of the most significant barriers to entry (besides the hefty price tag) has been the need for a display expert to spend upwards of two days to unpack, mount, install and calibrate dozens of tiles. Then connect that to an image processor, some sort of computer, and hook it up to power. Not with the all-in-ones.  

Another common sales pitch is that there’s no way you’re getting a 150-inch glass panel into most elevators.

Everything needed for the all-in-one arrives in a “flight case” comprising LED or dvLED tiles that have been pre-calibrated and mounted on usually two pre-assembled panels with a built-in control box, system-on-a-chip, and wall brackets. Some have integrated speakers, and most offer a rolling cart is that is your preference. An integrator can often have your content running in less than half a day.

Now is where you’ll want to nitpick between size, LED vs dvLED, pixel pitch, nits, 2K or 4K, and a host of other built-in software and features. Ten are spotlighted below.

[ Rust Never Sleeps ... and Neither Do Display Manufacturers ]

Absen's Absenicon 3.0

Absen's Absenicon 3.0 is an all-in-one standard conference LED display product, specially designed for meetings and presentations to suit known spaces such as the high-end meeting rooms, lecture halls, auditoriums in corporate, government, education and the other indoor environments that require a reliable fixed display solution for effective communication.

With a 5mm frame and 28.5mm depth of the screen body, Absenicon 3.0 is in a slim design and the screen-to-body ratio reaches 94% to provide superb seamless large-format images.

Absenicon 3.0 allows for open and bright meeting space with adjustable brightness levels from 0 to 350 nits, enabling users to choose the right brightness to adapt to different environments whether dark or bright. Besides, featuring a color gamut of 110% and a contrast ratio of 5000:1, Absenicon 3.0 is able to display the true details of content with accurate and vivid colors. In addition, the 160° ultra-wide viewing angle enables the meeting members within the space to receive complete presentation content, enhancing meeting efficiency and productivity.

Absenicon is an all-in-one design that integrates the control system, operation system and sound systems inside one device free of extra traditional control box and video processor. The hidden cable design also makes the whole screen look slim and beautiful.

Featuring a new smart control system, the operation of Absenicon 3.0 is as easy as that of TV. Users are able to easily turn on/off the screen, switch the digital channel and adjust the screen brightness and the OSD menu settings with a remote-controller. End users can share their computer or mobile screen by one click. Absenicon 3.0 supports dual systems including the Android 8.0 system and the Windows 10, which meet the diverse needs of different customers. By scanning a QR code, people can share the screens of a computer, mobile phone or iPad while taking notes on these devices during a conference. Absenicon 3.0 can manage to share four screens simultaneously and present different creative ideas.

Absenicon can be installed by two engineers in two hours with two installation methods available, including wall mounting and mobile installations. For the maintenance, Absenicon 3.0 is all front maintenance and one module can be removed in only two seconds with a special designed tool, which makes the installation and maintenance very quick and convenient in the actual use.

Barco's XT 165-inch LED Video Wall

Barco's XT 165-inch LED Video Wall, all-in-one package not only contains the necessary LED panels to build a full high-definition video display, but it also includes our in-house developed image processing Infinipix, all data and power cables and wall mounting structure. In other words, everything you need to build your LED video wall in the fastest way possible.

This pre-configured package includes XT 1.9 LED panels, image processing, cables and mounting structure. With best-in-class image quality and 800 nits brightness, the XT series guarantees a superior viewing experience. What’s more, the camera-based seam compensation technology guarantees a uniform seamless canvas viewing experience.

As a result of the Infinipix image processing system, the display's image quality is perfect in both dimmed and high-brightness modes with consistent Rec. 709 color accuracy. Video artifacts typically arise on fast-moving content, but with Infinipix, no image tearing or video hiccups occur. Additionally, Barco’s automatic calibration ensures the entire video wall is always perfectly uniform.

The included mounting structure enables the LED display to be mounted directly to the wall, which yields a shallow depth video display. The improved robustness and the Assisted Module Extraction allow the tiles to be removed easily, for maintenance or replacement needs, limiting the risk of pixel damage.

In order to support the use of direct-view LED in critical environments and prevent downtime, optional redundancy of both power and data can be integrated in the XT1.9. In order to perform advanced screen management, Barco also has an extended screen management portfolio which can be combined with your LED display.

All XT series displays are backed by our standard three-year product warranty. For extra peace of mind, customers can choose an additional EssentialCare maintenance contract with batch-compatible modules up to seven years.

Daktronics' All-in-One Smart LED Display

Daktronics' All-in-One Smart LED Display brings is a turnkey direct-view LED video solution. Daktronics SLD series product line consists of all-in-one smart LED display technology eliminating the installation and operational complexities associated with the purchase of a traditional LED display system.

Conference rooms, auditoriums, training centers and more now have the option of Daktronics SLD product line to deliver plug-and-play HDMI inputs and remote-controlled on-screen user settings. It is available in 110-, 138-, 165- and 220-inch diagonal sizes, features a standard 16:9 aspect ratio, and pixel-perfect HD resolution at 1920 x 1080 pixels.

Making the offering easy to use, it features a built-in operating system and mirroring connections for up to four devices. It can display as a monitor and has 600 nits of brightness. The product line is compliant with American Disabilities Act and international accessibility codes to ensure a user-friendly experience for everyone.

The system is installed completely from the front of the display and provides for both manual X/Y/Z axis adjustment, as well as digital correction to ensure a flawless installation. All system components including LED modules, power supplies and driver electronics are also accessible from the front. Designed for quick install, installation can be completed in two to six hours, depending on display size. The kit includes columns.

 The system provides the ability to toggle between multiple scene modes to provide the best content-specific viewing experience possible. The included remote control provides ready access to each of the four scene modes. Standard Mode is the default setting for presentations and digital signage; Cinema Mode is ideal for movies or long-format video clips; Soft Mode is especially effective for document presentation; Video Mode is tailored to optimize remote conferencing applications with pre-wired panels.

[ Daktronics Help the Atlanta Hawks Welcome Fans with Dazzling Displays ]

LG’s 136-inch All-in-One DVLED

LG Business Solutions' new 136-inch All-in-One DVLED display (model LAEC) that combines a 1080p screen, on-board webOS controller and built-in speakers to offer immediate operation in virtually any environment. With this new model, technology integrators can say goodbye to complicated installation procedures and wiring. The display can be installed in one day and includes every component necessary to serve a variety of needs and installation locations.

“The new 136-inch All-in-One DVLED display makes LED a reality for virtually any organization, with ‘plug-and-play’ simplicity supporting unlimited usage scenarios from boardrooms and classrooms to transit centers, command centers and shopping plazas,” said Dan Smith, LG Electronics USA’s vice president in charge of DVLED displays. “Featuring user controls similar to that of a regular flat panel TV, the 136-inch AIO is easy to install and easy to use.”

The display is different from other DVLED displays on the market because it is specifically designed to be as easy as possible to install without requiring any separate components, tools or wiring. First, it is shipped in a professional aluminum flight case on wheels, so delivery and movement on site are simple and fast. The display arrives partially constructed, with two pre-built cabinets that connect together using included hardware and can be mounted on a wall with included hardware or installed on an optional mobile cart that enables multi-room use.

The two mounting cabinets provide the back structure for the display, while the 72 notebook-sized modules are mounted to the cabinets creating a single, seamless 136-inch screen. LG designed the cable-free LED modules to literally snap in using a magnetic tool, making the process virtually foolproof for integrators and enabling much faster installation than other DVLED display options. Because the LED modules attach to the cabinet from the front, long-term maintenance and care is also greatly simplified since individual modules can be removed and replaced quickly without affecting other parts of the unit. After the modules are all attached, the display can be plugged in, turned on and used immediately thanks to the onboard webOS controller, familiar handheld remote control and two integrated 9-watt speakers.

“No matter the location or situation, the 136-inch All-in-One DVLED display offers a complete solution for virtually every need while ensuring easy installation and familiar operation,” Smith said.

The captivating display operates at up to 500 nits of brightness and features a tiny 4.6mm bezel, a 1.56mm pixel pitch, and total resolution of 1920x1080. The display has a rated lifespan of 100,000 hours to half-brightness and comes with a 3-year limited warranty. For those using the mobile cart, flexibility is maximized through a motorized height adjustment that enables quick positioning for sitting or standing audiences.

Owners and integrators can also add LG’s cloud-based ConnectedCare service, which remotely manages the status of displays in client workplaces for fault diagnosis and remote control services, enabling the stable operation of clients' businesses. For simple screen sharing, LG offers the One:Quick USB dongle that plugs into any PC or laptop to provide a secure, reliable connection for presentations and media viewing.

[ LG Introduces High-Brightness Displays for Window-Facing, Outdoor Installations ]

MAXHUB’s Raptor Series LED Wall Display

MAXHUB’s Raptor Series, the LM138A07TAA offers a rich feature set typical of all Raptor Series displays while being TAA compliant.

With its 1920 x 1080 screen resolution, the 138-inch diagonal LM138A07TAA delivers stunning high-definition visuals with exceptional color accuracy and depth. The result is unforgettable impact, with class-leading brightness and contrast ratio. Featuring integrated video processing, support for PBP (picture-by-picture) functionality, which separates the screen in half—displaying output from two different source devices simultaneously on the left and right sides, along with PIP (picture-in-picture) capability, which separates the screen into two parts (one source on the main screen and the other in an inset window), the perfect presentation experience can be configured with minimal setup time. Equally notable, the LM138A07TAA provides three HDMI inputs and one HDMI output for maximum signal management flexibility.

MAXHUB LM138A07TAA is a 3-in-1 design providing everything presenters might require in one package. The control unit integrates a sending card, the Android OS card, and the video processor. The receiving unit incorporates the power supply, the receiving card, and the hub board while the power unit includes the power supply, amplifier, and relay provisions. The result is plug and play installation with easy maintenance.

The MAXHUB LM138A07TAA’s audio capability is equally impressive. The display’s integrated studio quality speakers enhance voice intelligibility—enabling meeting participants to hear clearly and be more engaged. With an integrated 30-watt internal audio amplifier and dual loudspeakers, the new LM138A07TAA ensures exceptional audio quality with studio-grade, professionally tuned clarity.

Every aspect of the MAXHUB LM138A07TAA’s design facilitates quick and easy collaboration. With its low-latency, stable mirroring support, LAN screen-sharing for up to four windows, and integrated Android 9.0 operating system, seamless connections and built-in sharing features make this display an outstanding choice for any presentation or communication task. Android 9.0 also provides enhanced BYOD (Bring Your Own Device) sharing of content, resulting in even greater flexibility for meetings. Further, the new LM138A07TAA offers upgraded Wi-Fi capability to 2.4G and 5G dual network duplex.

“The new LM138A07TAA is, for MAXHUB, in a class all its own—thanks to its TAA compliancy, enabling this display to be sold to the Federal government of the United States," said Sam Malik, senior director of sales and marketing for MAXHUB’s North American operations. "While this display is a full member of the MAXHUB Raptor Series in terms of features and performance, it is manufactured in South Korea, thus enabling this model to gain TAA compliant recognition. With its comprehensive feature set, presenters can rest assured this display will provide meeting attendees with exceptional image quality to maximize the impact of the presentation.”

NanoLumens Captivate Series

NanoLumens Captivate Series, an all-in-one LED display solution is configured to appeal to organizations looking for an easy-to-integrate dvLED product for corporate meeting rooms, houses of worship, higher education facilities, and similar environments.

The all-in-one Captivate system eliminates the need for additional components and eases the design and installation costs typically associated with dvLED displays, according to Brice McPheeters, vice president of product and planning for NanoLumens. Captivate is available in 120-, 150-, and 180-inch sizes, all in native HD resolution. Each display comes standard with HDMI inputs and remote control for out-of-the-box operation.

The Captivate Series is ideal for communications and collaboration spaces. Built-in HDMI inputs make integrating common room hub systems fast and easy. Captivate systems may be mounted using the standard wall mount or an optional display stand for mobile applications.

NanoLumens has teamed with TD SYNNEX as a distribution partner for the Captivate Series. 

[ Nanolumens 2022: New Brand Identity, New Website ]

Optoma’s 163-inch QUADzilla

Optoma’s QUADzilla FHDQ163 all-in-one LED display delivers larger-than-life 163-inch imagery, 600 nits, a 1.9mm pixel pitch, and 4K UHD source compatibility, producing stunning images with richer colors and incredible high contrast. The QUADzilla comes pre-calibrated out of the box and features an ultra slim detachable bezel to easily combine multiple displays for large scale installations.

The full HD 1080p FHDQ163 display features a slim detachable bezel, allowing integrators to combine multiple displays and create large-scale installations. With a 1.9mm pixel pitch, 4K UHD input compatibility, and QUAD LED technology, the display boasts a unique 4-in-1 Surface Mount Diode (SMD) layout, allowing for a smoother screen surface and a 170-degree wide-viewing angle for comfortable viewing from any point in the room. 

Featuring built-in Calibre HQUltra 4K image processing technology, the 163-inch QUAD LED display delivers fast image switching and scaling to provide a high-quality picture with low-latency video processing. Optimized for seamless collaboration, the display wirelessly connects up to four devices for simultaneous images, document and screen sharing via the Optoma TapCast Pro app, and users can wirelessly upload content and control the display via the Fusion Connect app. In addition, the On Screen Display provides easy access to display settings and functions for control directly with the included remote. The display also features an ECO friendly <0.5W standby mode, minimizing power consumption and saving on energy costs. 

“Our award-winning QUAD LED series provides effective display solutions for our customers looking to address the distinct installation needs for a variety of environments, including settings with high ambient lighting,” said Brian Soto, director of product management, Optoma Technology, Inc. “We are excited to expand the QUAD LED series with the all-in-one, single power cable FHDQ163 LED display, which mimics the same simplicity of a TV but at a larger scale and with stunning image quality, giving our customers a full variety of Optoma solutions that provide them with the best value for their investment.” 

Samsung's The Wall All-in-One IAB

Samsung's all-new 2022, The Wall All-in-One (IAB) is the next generation of the most innovative modular display that was first introduced in 2021. Holding true to its name, The Wall All-in-One is an enormous, high definition, fully immersive display that transforms spaces from corporate offices to luxury residences. The Wall IAB comes with its trademark sleek design, thin frame and upgraded sizing options. Expandability and ease with scaling was a major design factor for this year’s model, expanding the possibilities for customers looking to think bigger than before. Its sizing customization and impressive quality stem from a tradition of display excellence with a focus on installation capabilities that exceed expectations set for a display of its kind and quality. It’s revolutionizing size and installation convenience for next-generation displays while delivering best-in-class quality. This 16:9 form factor model comes in three different models, 4K 146-inch, 2K 146-inch and 2K 110-inch, and is globally available for purchase.

Bringing a reimaged installation process to the table, the model’s pre-adjusted seam, embedded S-box and ‘Pre-Assembled Frame Kit’ has transformed assembly entirely, reducing overall install time drastically. Beyond flexible installation and screen size capabilities, The Wall All-in-One offers a sleek design with a display thickness of just 59mm. This slim, bezel-less infinity design allows the All-in-One to blend seamlessly into its surroundings without disrupting the desired vision both within and beyond the screen. The display features a direct input connection on the screen without a separate device—creating a clean and convenient setup. Combine two 4K 146-inch screens side by side to create a 32:9 form factor model.

Showcasing powerful connectivity, the display can also be paired with video calling app Google Duo, turning the display into the perfect workspace.

SNA Displays' ASPECT LED Display Systems

ASPECT is SNA Displays' new line of all-in-one, plug-and-play LED display systems. Perfect for meeting spaces like conference rooms, tradeshow booths, and other indoor areas where on-the-go digital messaging is needed, ASPECT display systems are pre-configured at a standard 16:9 aspect ratio and packaged for quick and easy setup.

Each display system is equipped with an integrated content management system (CMS), a high-end video processor, and Miracast technology, which allows users to easily mirror content from another device, such as a laptop, smartphone, or tablet. HDMI input is also supported. All systems include a wireless handheld remote for on-screen navigation and end-user control of brightness, volume, and other settings.

ASPECT LED displays are available in multiple sizes and pixel pitches. While all systems can be wall-mounted, each ASPECT display comes with an easel-style frame for safe, freestanding deployments.

ViewSonic's LD135-151 DirectView LED Display

The ViewSonic LD135-151, 135-inch all-in-one direct view LED display makes an impression in learning environments such as auditoriums and lecture halls. At 1.5mm pixel pitch, and 600 nits of brightness, its seamless design and stunning video wall images can be shown in full HD resolution.

The LD135-151 is a solution for any environment that has indirect sunlight, or in rooms with more than 50 percent window exposure or other bright ambient lighting. The advanced all-in-one design features multiple pre-assembled and pre-calibrated panels that can be installed by two people in less than four hours. The LD135-151 is easy to set up, easy to calibrate and easy to maintain, significantly reducing the total cost of ownership compared to a customized video wall. Because the LD135-151 is designed with LED tiles, it can deliver high-impact messaging by seamlessly offering content without lines or distortion for one continuous, smooth image.

Using the built-in screen sharing software, multiple users can collaborate and wirelessly share content from their own devices to the display—transforming any teaching space into a dynamic learning hub. With larger-than-life images and simple setup, it is a cost-effective alternative to traditional video walls.

It has built-in digital signage software, along with ViewBoard Cast, myViewBoard Display and myViewBoard Manager to seamlessly manage content. The pre-installed ViewBoard Cast enables content to be streamed from mobile devices onto the display over wireless or wired networks, whether one-to-one, or many-to-one.

The ViewSonic LD135-151 all-in-one LED Display integrates display, image stitching, power supply, and control systems into one device, resolving all the traditional pain points of LCS wall solutions. This display is a total solution for large-sized presentation, interactive learning, offering easy installation, operation, and maintenance.

The LD135-151 features twin dual-core processors, 4GB RAM, and 32GB of internal memory to run multimedia from internal storage or a flash drive. A powerful embedded SoC platform delivers a simplified installation and maintenance experience, with no need for external devices to communicate with a server. With remote configuration and content management system support, it is compatible with Crestron, Extron and AMX automated control systems for uniform integration.

AVT Question: Please share your company's philosophy, vision, and product roadmap heading into InfoComm 2022. [June 2022]

Thought Leader: Jessica Lange, Marketing Director at Guntermann & Drunck GmbH (G&D)

For more than 35 years, we have developed our expertise as a KVM manufacturer and are looking forward to showcasing our latest KVM solutions at InfoComm 2022. We use our experience to create the best possible working conditions for control room staff and technicians, which we achieve with our broad, interoperable KVM portfolio. KVM makes it possible to operate multiple physically separated computers from different workstations, thus optimizing the IT infrastructure. Therefore, we place great value on ensuring that users can always rely on the technology running in the background and that focused and intuitive work is possible in control rooms. At InfoComm, visitors will be able to see the latest product highlights from G&D in real-world applications and experience the usability of the products.

The new, high-performance KVM-over-IP extender VisionXS utilizes standard Ethernet networks with up to 10-Gbit bandwidth and therefore requires much less compression at higher display resolutions. G&D's proprietary lossless video compression bluedec transmits pixel-perfect resolutions up to 4K60 and improves the user experience. As a special highlight, the integrated IP-MUX function lets a console device manage multiple target IP addresses from up to 20 computer sources without additional hardware. For simpler applications, the on-screen display can be used to switch between different sources.

To enable employees in control rooms to keep an eye on all content, various screens can be displayed on one large monitor. Particularly exciting for this purpose is the PersonalWorkplace-Controller, a multi-viewing tool that allows up to 26 video sources to be displayed and operated on a single screen depending on the application. AV professionals benefit from a flexible layout, with image quality up to 4K60. The PWC optimizes workflows, where multiple signals need to be monitored. Combining a KVM system with the PWC ensures secure, high-performance, and flexible access to all relevant computer systems. It is also possible to use the PersonalWorkplace-Controller to display the sources on a large video wall.

InfoComm Booth: W1255

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AVT Question: Please share your company's philosophy, vision, and product roadmap heading into InfoComm 2022. [June 2022]

Thought Leader: Steve Trunkett, Director, Global Sales at SurgeX

It’s been quite a while since SurgeX last hit the InfoComm show floor, but despite how technologies (and everything else) have evolved over the past couple years, one thing remains consistent: Power anomalies are a risk to electronics all over—from the home office to the corporate boardroom to the dealer showroom. A strong power foundation must be in place to keep things up and running. Homes and commercial spaces both rely on more technology than ever, and for InfoComm 2022, SurgeX is excited to bring forth a portfolio of trusted power protection solutions that safeguard AV equipment, ensure performance continuity, and enable remote monitoring. 

The award-winning SQUID power management system will be on display at the SurgeX booth. Providing AC/DC power protection, boxed network control, and analytical software in one compact chassis, SQUID streamlines installation of the most highly sought-after and critical power management and monitoring tools for electronics and AV systems. Integrators no longer have to install a product for AC, another for DC, and yet another to monitor and control the power environment. It is the perfect solution for collaborative flex environments, huddle spaces, and other tight-spaced AV settings.

SurgeX will also display its new line of UPS solutions with built-in isolation transformers. Available in three models, the line-interactive, cost-effective UPS + Isolation Transformer line safeguards sensitive connected equipment by eliminating neutral-ground voltage, reducing lockups, and mitigating downtime by completely isolating connected equipment from the grid and other electronic loads that can pollute the branch circuit. They feature a true sine wave interactive UPS to filter, condition, and stabilize power while simultaneously providing all the benefits of low-impedance isolation transformer technology at the rack level. The SurgeX UPS + Isolation Transformer solutions are virtually silent, making them an ideal match for showrooms, audio systems, and other sound-reliant installations.

InfoComm Booth: W1373

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AVT Question: Please share your company's philosophy, vision, and product roadmap heading into InfoComm 2022. [June 2022]

Thought Leader: Tomer Mann, CRO at 22Miles

While the past couple of years have been tumultuous to say the least, the evolution of technology has been incredible. We’ve entered the golden age of visual communications, and our team has been hard at work to deliver on integrators’ every demand to best serve their businesses, employees, and customers. Visual communications have gotten more flexible, effective, and easier to deploy. Solutions including digital signage, wayfinding, and space management are taking hold, from venues and hotels to universities and corporate campuses, and they’re getting better with age. 

For InfoComm 2022, we’re thrilled to show off everything we’ve worked to master—and there’s so much to share that we’ll be all over the place. As the content software solution for the Las Vegas Convention Center’s video wall solutions, wayfinding, space management, and more—attendees will be using 22Miles systems to explore the entire show. You’ll be fully immersed in what 22Miles can do from the moment you walk in the door, greeted by massive displays powered by our content management software. You can find our technology everywhere—from the Tesla loop to booths on the show floor—using our interactive wayfinding on the official LVCC app. 

In partnership with leading hardware brands, including Mimo Tablets (N2223), Crestron (W603), Brightsign (N735), Peerless-AV (N2831), Sharp/NEC (N2305), Philips (N2021), and more—22Miles will be present in several booths across the show floor. Swing by to learn and see how the integrated visual communication, 3D wayfinding, Carry2Mobile, room booking, and directory experiences can take your business to the next level.

InfoComm Booths: N2223, N735, N2305, N2021, W603, N2831

Roadmaps to IC22: InfoComm 2022 Exhibitors Share Insider's Perspective

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AVT Question: Please share your company's philosophy, vision, and product roadmap heading into InfoComm 2022. [June 2022]

Thought Leader: Christian Young, Pro AV Product Manager for ATEN Technology

ATEN has been working hard to help our partners meet the new needs for AV and will showcase these solutions at InfoComm 2022. Our company is focused on providing connectivity and control solutions that foster emerging AV environments that enable the amount of interactivity and flexibility required to build a new, better normal. We work with our partners to meet the demands of these new requirements and challenges and to find the best solutions.

We have been working to enable hybrid and remote environments in a variety of industries. Education has new requirements to support remote and in person classrooms and lecture halls. Entertainment has been revolutionized, with new immersive and mixed reality experiences. Office spaces and meeting rooms have transformed to support the hybrid work environment and focus on creating new collaboration spaces.

We are also working with partners to develop immersive environments with our HDBaseT video extenders that meet their needs for long-range AV transmission and quick, responsive equipment. Our video presentation switches, control boxes, and content creation products are being used to transform offices and classrooms into collaborative experiences for both remote and local participants.

I am eagerly looking forward to supporting new AV experiences as the application of collaborative and immersive AV technology is applied in new and unpredictable ways to delight and excite everyone. I believe AV technology is just on the cusp of supporting a new collaborative and immersive world.

InfoComm Booth: N635

Roadmaps to IC22: InfoComm 2022 Exhibitors Share Insider's Perspective

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AVT Question: Please share your company's philosophy, vision, and product roadmap heading into InfoComm 2022. [June 2022]

Thought Leader: Kenneth Mau, Product and Channel Marketing Director at ViewSonic

As we continue to move forward and transition our lives to blend the remote, physical, and virtual into hybrid environments at work and school, the efforts to find suitable collaboration solutions will be ongoing. 

Hybrid environments are an amalgam of fluidity. There is no fixed plan or one-size-fits-all strategy anymore. Just how does a solution provider or manufacturer operate in these new environments? Basically, we work together and offer products and services that meet the demands of these hybrid settings, both in the workspace and in the classroom. We need to deliver products that can be smart and connect employees, teachers, and students. We also need to support our AV partners by designing products that continue to evolve with the changing needs of their customers.

At InfoComm 2022, I believe that we’ll see products and services that accommodate the fluidity of the hybrid environment and fusion of flexible solutions—more interactive and larger screens, products to facilitate collaboration and communication, and products that support a hybrid life. ViewSonic, for example, will be introducing the next generation of ViewBoard interactive displays with the IFP62 and IFP52 series. They are ideal collaboration products that allow businesses and schools to create connected spaces and help teams collaborate. Other products will include portable monitors for added convenience. 

ViewSonic has developed display solutions that can fit in with ever-changing environments. Our AV partners need to have products that are adaptable to their customers’ needs, from seamless connectivity and interactive tools to collaborative technologies and software that allow people to participate in the office, classroom, home, or on the road.

InfoComm Booth: N2612

Roadmaps to IC22: InfoComm 2022 Exhibitors Share Insider's Perspective

Check out the more than 50 Roadmaps here!

56 AV/IT Company Roadmaps 2022 

>> 22Miles Roadmap 2022

>> Absen Roadmap 2022

>> AMX Roadmap 2022 

>> ATEN Technologies Roadmap 2022

>> AtlasIED Roadmap 2022

>> Atlona Roadmap 2022

>> Auton Motorized Systems Roadmap 2022

>> Avnu Alliance Roadmap 2022

>> Barix Roadmap 2022 

>> Barco Roadmap 2022 

>> BenQ America Roadmap 2022

>> Biamp Roadmap 2022 

>> Black Box Roadmap 2022 

>> BlueJeans by Verizon Roadmap 2022

>> BrightSign Roadmap 2022

>> C2G Roadmap 2022

>> Chief Roadmap 2022

>> ClearOne Roadmap 2022

>> Crestron Roadmap 2022 

>> Daktronics Roadmap 2022

>> Datapath Roadmap 2022

>> EPOS Audio Roadmap 2022 

>> Hall Technologies Roadmap 2022

>> IHSE USA Roadmap 2022 

>> Intel Roadmap 2022 

>> Just Add Power Roadmap 2022

>> Kramer Roadmap 2022

>> Legrand|AV Roadmap 2022 

>> Listen Technologies Roadmap 2022

>> Logitech Roadmap 2022

>> LynTec Roadmap 2022

>> Macnica Roadmap 2022

>> Matrox Roadmap 2022 

>> Meyer Sound Roadmap 2022

>> NETGEAR Roadmap 2022

>> Nureva Roadmap 2022

>> Optoma Roadmap 2022 

>> Planar Roadmap 2022

>> Poly Roadmap 2022

>> Prysm Systems Roadmap 2022 

>> PTZOptics Roadmap 2022

>> QSC Roadmap 2022

>> Red Dot Digital Media Roadmap 2022

>> RTI Roadmap 2022

>> Samsung Roadmap 2022 

>> SAVI Controls Roadmap 2022 

>> Sennheiser Roadmap 2022

>> Shure Roadmap 2022

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>> Sony Roadmap 2022

>> Utelogy Roadmap 2022

>> Vanco International Roadmap 2022

>> ViewSonic Roadmap 2022

>> VuWall Roadmap 2022

>> Xilica Roadmap 2022

>> Yamaha Unified Communications Roadmap 2022

>> Zoom Roadmap 2022

AVT Question: Please share your company's philosophy, vision, and product roadmap heading into InfoComm 2022. [June 2022]

Thought Leader: Sean Sheridan, Regional Technical Manager, Americas at Brompton Technology

Brompton Technology is a specialty manufacturer of LED processors based in London, UK. Since 2012, we’ve been delivering world-class products, with a heavy focus on customers in live events and concert touring. The road-worthiness proven in these areas have helped us make a name for ourselves as the most dependable option LED processing. We also bring a feature set and ease of use that is truly second to none. This is born out in the fact that the very first processors we delivered, 10 years ago, can still be found in working rental inventories today. Those early products are still capable of being updated, as well! 

At InfoComm 2022, we’ll be showing our full range of processors, from the HD-compatible S4 and T1, to our 4K S8 and flagship SX40 units. 

At Brompton, we never stop improving and innovating. One recent example is our Hydra camera measurement system, a product we created due to the lack of capabilities found in off-the-shelf calibration systems for LED. Hydra turns the legacy calibration process on its head, and by truly understanding what each LED on a panel is capable of, our processors are able to achieve a very high level of performance, especially when dealing with HDR sources. We call this process Dynamic Calibration. 

In addition to hardware developments, we’re constantly pushing new feature updates (always free of charge!) in our Tessera software. Over the past couple of years, we’ve found our products being used heavily in broadcast, XR, and virtual production for film. So, our most recently added features have been quality-of-life improvements for using LED in-camera. Some of these latest features are Frame Remapping, ShutterSync, 3D LUT, and camera tracking implementations. Please stop by our booth to say hello and check out the latest developments!

InfoComm Booth: N529

Roadmaps to IC22: InfoComm 2022 Exhibitors Share Insider's Perspective

Check out the more than 50 Roadmaps here!

56 AV/IT Company Roadmaps 2022 

>> 22Miles Roadmap 2022

>> Absen Roadmap 2022

>> AMX Roadmap 2022 

>> ATEN Technologies Roadmap 2022

>> AtlasIED Roadmap 2022

>> Atlona Roadmap 2022

>> Auton Motorized Systems Roadmap 2022

>> Avnu Alliance Roadmap 2022

>> Barix Roadmap 2022 

>> Barco Roadmap 2022 

>> BenQ America Roadmap 2022

>> Biamp Roadmap 2022 

>> Black Box Roadmap 2022 

>> BlueJeans by Verizon Roadmap 2022

>> BrightSign Roadmap 2022

>> C2G Roadmap 2022

>> Chief Roadmap 2022

>> ClearOne Roadmap 2022

>> Crestron Roadmap 2022 

>> Daktronics Roadmap 2022

>> Datapath Roadmap 2022

>> EPOS Audio Roadmap 2022 

>> Hall Technologies Roadmap 2022

>> IHSE USA Roadmap 2022 

>> Intel Roadmap 2022 

>> Just Add Power Roadmap 2022

>> Kramer Roadmap 2022

>> Legrand|AV Roadmap 2022 

>> Listen Technologies Roadmap 2022

>> Logitech Roadmap 2022

>> LynTec Roadmap 2022

>> Macnica Roadmap 2022

>> Matrox Roadmap 2022 

>> Meyer Sound Roadmap 2022

>> NETGEAR Roadmap 2022

>> Nureva Roadmap 2022

>> Optoma Roadmap 2022 

>> Planar Roadmap 2022

>> Poly Roadmap 2022

>> Prysm Systems Roadmap 2022 

>> PTZOptics Roadmap 2022

>> QSC Roadmap 2022

>> Red Dot Digital Media Roadmap 2022

>> RTI Roadmap 2022

>> Samsung Roadmap 2022 

>> SAVI Controls Roadmap 2022 

>> Sennheiser Roadmap 2022

>> Shure Roadmap 2022

>> Sonic Foundry Roadmap 2022

>> Sony Roadmap 2022

>> Utelogy Roadmap 2022

>> Vanco International Roadmap 2022

>> ViewSonic Roadmap 2022

>> VuWall Roadmap 2022

>> Xilica Roadmap 2022

>> Yamaha Unified Communications Roadmap 2022

>> Zoom Roadmap 2022

AVT Question: Please share your company's philosophy, vision, and product roadmap heading into InfoComm 2022. [June 2022]

Thought Leader: Bill Hensley, Head of Global Marketing at RTI

Elevating performance and efficiency for integrators will be front and center at the RTI and Blustream booths, which are right next to each other at InfoComm 2022. For RTI, the focus will be on control solutions for a variety of installations, from collaboration spaces to hospitality, with programming made faster by our newly released Integration Designer 11 and its rich, innovative tools that make it easier for integrators to deliver exceptional solutions for every need. It features the all-new "Coral" template, with pre-configured home pages, swappable backgrounds, customizable scroll bars across the touchscreens, and new fonts—all with auto-programming and a built-in driver store that adds efficiency to every project. We’ll illustrate the breadth of control opportunities RTI provides integrators, including new integrations ideal for office environments, 4K UHD Video over IP controlled natively within the RTI environment, plus RTI Music with our new Music Streamers and partnership with SoundMachine streaming music service that can create recurring revenue for integrators. 

Our partner Blustream will showcase award-winning AV distribution solutions, including its lineup of HDBaseT, video over IP, and HDMI distribution products that integrate effortlessly with all the major control platforms, including RTI. From matrixes to multi-format presentation switchers and more, the Blustream philosophy is to make advanced features standard, such as enabling 4K 18Gbps 4:4:4 resolutions across primary Blustream HDMI and HDBaseT products sold in the US. The Blustream Multicast UHD video over IP platform uses lossless compression technology to deliver virtually latency-free HDMI video up to 328 feet over a 1Gb network switch. Innovative new products include the multi-format HEX70HDUK-KIT extender set—an HDMI 2.0 4K 60Hz 4:4:4 (18Gbps) HDCP2.2 HDBaseT solution using CSC technology to deliver HDMI, USB-C, and DisplayPort over a single Cat cable. Audio solutions on display include the new Dante-enabled networked power amplifier—the NPA100DA. For collaboration, the Blustream AMF41W enables a BYOD solution that eliminates the complexity of setting up guest networks.

InfoComm Booths: RTI (W2860), Blustream (W2761)

Roadmaps to IC22: InfoComm 2022 Exhibitors Share Insider's Perspective

Check out the more than 50 Roadmaps here!

56 AV/IT Company Roadmaps 2022 

>> 22Miles Roadmap 2022

>> Absen Roadmap 2022

>> AMX Roadmap 2022 

>> ATEN Technologies Roadmap 2022

>> AtlasIED Roadmap 2022

>> Atlona Roadmap 2022

>> Auton Motorized Systems Roadmap 2022

>> Avnu Alliance Roadmap 2022

>> Barix Roadmap 2022 

>> Barco Roadmap 2022 

>> BenQ America Roadmap 2022

>> Biamp Roadmap 2022 

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>> BlueJeans by Verizon Roadmap 2022

>> BrightSign Roadmap 2022

>> C2G Roadmap 2022

>> Chief Roadmap 2022

>> ClearOne Roadmap 2022

>> Crestron Roadmap 2022 

>> Daktronics Roadmap 2022

>> Datapath Roadmap 2022

>> EPOS Audio Roadmap 2022 

>> Hall Technologies Roadmap 2022

>> IHSE USA Roadmap 2022 

>> Intel Roadmap 2022 

>> Just Add Power Roadmap 2022

>> Kramer Roadmap 2022

>> Legrand|AV Roadmap 2022 

>> Listen Technologies Roadmap 2022

>> Logitech Roadmap 2022

>> LynTec Roadmap 2022

>> Macnica Roadmap 2022

>> Matrox Roadmap 2022 

>> Meyer Sound Roadmap 2022

>> NETGEAR Roadmap 2022

>> Nureva Roadmap 2022

>> Optoma Roadmap 2022 

>> Planar Roadmap 2022

>> Poly Roadmap 2022

>> Prysm Systems Roadmap 2022 

>> PTZOptics Roadmap 2022

>> QSC Roadmap 2022

>> Red Dot Digital Media Roadmap 2022

>> RTI Roadmap 2022

>> Samsung Roadmap 2022 

>> SAVI Controls Roadmap 2022 

>> Sennheiser Roadmap 2022

>> Shure Roadmap 2022

>> Sonic Foundry Roadmap 2022

>> Sony Roadmap 2022

>> Utelogy Roadmap 2022

>> Vanco International Roadmap 2022

>> ViewSonic Roadmap 2022

>> VuWall Roadmap 2022

>> Xilica Roadmap 2022

>> Yamaha Unified Communications Roadmap 2022

>> Zoom Roadmap 2022

AVT Question: Please share your company's philosophy, vision, and product roadmap heading into InfoComm 2022. [June 2022]

Thought Leader: Brian Cockrell, Product Owner and Co-Founder of the Intel Unite solution

The concept of the workplace is changing. It is no longer all about work (in the sense of routine tasks) or about place. Instead, organizations are beginning to embrace the concept of a more flexible approach, where employees’ homes are the place to get things done and the office is the place to figure things out. We are seeing this happen at Intel, where many employees have been given the opportunity to continue to base themselves at home—returning to the office for those activities that benefit from face-to-face interaction, such as collaboration. To keep talented employees, organizations will need to evolve, and the more quickly and seamlessly they can adapt, the more successful they will be. A big part of this evolution will involve the rethinking, and the adding, of collaboration spaces.

The philosophy behind the Intel Unite solution is based on the recognition that evolution is constant, and to meet customers’ needs for fast, frictionless adaptation, a product must not only be able to evolve, but it must be designed to evolve. That’s why our software-based, cloud-delivered collaboration solution uses an open and extensible architecture that allows the seamless integration of a growing library of collaboration-enhancing apps, some developed by Intel, some by our partners, and some—like the new Bose VB1 video bar app—developed jointly. It’s why we offer a publicly available SDK that gives IT and solution partners the freedom to develop custom solutions. 

At InfoComm, we’ll demonstrate not only app integrations like the newly released Google Meet app, but also the many other features that make the Intel Unite solution uniquely adaptable. We’ll also show why it is well positioned for a BYOM world where collaborators must switch seamlessly between in-room, remote, and hybrid scenarios, and where collaboration spaces can vary from touchdown spaces to boardrooms.

InfoComm Booth: W2423

Roadmaps to IC22: InfoComm 2022 Exhibitors Share Insider's Perspective

Check out the more than 50 Roadmaps here!

56 AV/IT Company Roadmaps 2022 

>> 22Miles Roadmap 2022

>> Absen Roadmap 2022

>> AMX Roadmap 2022 

>> ATEN Technologies Roadmap 2022

>> AtlasIED Roadmap 2022

>> Atlona Roadmap 2022

>> Auton Motorized Systems Roadmap 2022

>> Avnu Alliance Roadmap 2022

>> Barix Roadmap 2022 

>> Barco Roadmap 2022 

>> BenQ America Roadmap 2022

>> Biamp Roadmap 2022 

>> Black Box Roadmap 2022 

>> BlueJeans by Verizon Roadmap 2022

>> BrightSign Roadmap 2022

>> C2G Roadmap 2022

>> Chief Roadmap 2022

>> ClearOne Roadmap 2022

>> Crestron Roadmap 2022 

>> Daktronics Roadmap 2022

>> Datapath Roadmap 2022

>> EPOS Audio Roadmap 2022 

>> Hall Technologies Roadmap 2022

>> IHSE USA Roadmap 2022 

>> Intel Roadmap 2022 

>> Just Add Power Roadmap 2022

>> Kramer Roadmap 2022

>> Legrand|AV Roadmap 2022 

>> Listen Technologies Roadmap 2022

>> Logitech Roadmap 2022

>> LynTec Roadmap 2022

>> Macnica Roadmap 2022

>> Matrox Roadmap 2022 

>> Meyer Sound Roadmap 2022

>> NETGEAR Roadmap 2022

>> Nureva Roadmap 2022

>> Optoma Roadmap 2022 

>> Planar Roadmap 2022

>> Poly Roadmap 2022

>> Prysm Systems Roadmap 2022 

>> PTZOptics Roadmap 2022

>> QSC Roadmap 2022

>> Red Dot Digital Media Roadmap 2022

>> RTI Roadmap 2022

>> Samsung Roadmap 2022 

>> SAVI Controls Roadmap 2022 

>> Sennheiser Roadmap 2022

>> Shure Roadmap 2022

>> Sonic Foundry Roadmap 2022

>> Sony Roadmap 2022

>> Utelogy Roadmap 2022

>> Vanco International Roadmap 2022

>> ViewSonic Roadmap 2022

>> VuWall Roadmap 2022

>> Xilica Roadmap 2022

>> Yamaha Unified Communications Roadmap 2022

>> Zoom Roadmap 2022

AVT Question: Please share your company's philosophy, vision, and product roadmap heading into InfoComm 2022. [June 2022]

Thought Leader: Sam Recine, Chair, Pro AV Working Group, AIMS

At InfoComm, AIMS will host its first live interoperability demonstration of Internet Protocol Media Experience (IPMX)—a set of standards-based protocols designed to ensure interoperability for AV over IP. This first-of-a-kind demo will feature networking equipment and hardware and software nodes running both IPMX and SMPTE ST 2110, the standards suite on which IPMX is based. The demo will also highlight gateways between IPMX and other protocols, developer kits, and elements of IPMX-enabled AV-over-IP workflows. 

With this demo at InfoComm 2022, we're passing a critical milestone on the AIMS roadmap for open-standards-based media over IP. We're demonstrating the technical viability of IPMX in terms of multivendor interoperability, and that is pretty exciting! 

Also significant is the high level of industry support the demo signals. Leading manufacturers are building IPMX support into their products, and more companies are continually joining those ranks as we move toward a more flexible, dynamic, IP-based future for pro AV.

Demo partners include Arista Networks, Cisco Systems, intoPix SA, Macnica, Matrox, Ross Video Limited, STAGETEC GmbH, and many others.

IPMX implements a standards-based approach based on SMPTE ST 2110, with features and capabilities that target the specific needs of the pro AV industry. In addition to simplifying implementation of SMPTE ST 2110 and ensuring interoperability for AV-over-IP systems, IPMX incorporates other features tailored to pro AV installations. These features include AMWA NMOS IS-04 and IS-05 for discovery, registration, and connection management, as well as specifications for copy protection and security.

InfoComm Booth: W1067

Roadmaps to IC22: InfoComm 2022 Exhibitors Share Insider's Perspective

Check out the more than 50 Roadmaps here!

56 AV/IT Company Roadmaps 2022 

>> 22Miles Roadmap 2022

>> Absen Roadmap 2022

>> AMX Roadmap 2022 

>> ATEN Technologies Roadmap 2022

>> AtlasIED Roadmap 2022

>> Atlona Roadmap 2022

>> Auton Motorized Systems Roadmap 2022

>> Avnu Alliance Roadmap 2022

>> Barix Roadmap 2022 

>> Barco Roadmap 2022 

>> BenQ America Roadmap 2022

>> Biamp Roadmap 2022 

>> Black Box Roadmap 2022 

>> BlueJeans by Verizon Roadmap 2022

>> BrightSign Roadmap 2022

>> C2G Roadmap 2022

>> Chief Roadmap 2022

>> ClearOne Roadmap 2022

>> Crestron Roadmap 2022 

>> Daktronics Roadmap 2022

>> Datapath Roadmap 2022

>> EPOS Audio Roadmap 2022 

>> Hall Technologies Roadmap 2022

>> IHSE USA Roadmap 2022 

>> Intel Roadmap 2022 

>> Just Add Power Roadmap 2022

>> Kramer Roadmap 2022

>> Legrand|AV Roadmap 2022 

>> Listen Technologies Roadmap 2022

>> Logitech Roadmap 2022

>> LynTec Roadmap 2022

>> Macnica Roadmap 2022

>> Matrox Roadmap 2022 

>> Meyer Sound Roadmap 2022

>> NETGEAR Roadmap 2022

>> Nureva Roadmap 2022

>> Optoma Roadmap 2022 

>> Planar Roadmap 2022

>> Poly Roadmap 2022

>> Prysm Systems Roadmap 2022 

>> PTZOptics Roadmap 2022

>> QSC Roadmap 2022

>> Red Dot Digital Media Roadmap 2022

>> RTI Roadmap 2022

>> Samsung Roadmap 2022 

>> SAVI Controls Roadmap 2022 

>> Sennheiser Roadmap 2022

>> Shure Roadmap 2022

>> Sonic Foundry Roadmap 2022

>> Sony Roadmap 2022

>> Utelogy Roadmap 2022

>> Vanco International Roadmap 2022

>> ViewSonic Roadmap 2022

>> VuWall Roadmap 2022

>> Xilica Roadmap 2022

>> Yamaha Unified Communications Roadmap 2022

>> Zoom Roadmap 2022

AVT Question: Please share your company's philosophy, vision, and product roadmap heading into InfoComm 2022. [June 2022]

Thought Leader: Taft Stricklin, Sales Team Manager at Just Add Power

We’re celebrating our 30th anniversary in 2022, with most of those years spent delivering AV-over-IP distribution solutions. Our design philosophy is to respect the investment that customers make in their AV systems with products that last and systems that can be upgraded or modified as new features arrive. Scalability and flexibility are key, as Just Add Power systems can be expanded as needed and have the features and abilities to solve system design problems that arise from facility layout, zone requirements, and the desire to wow. Those themes continue to guide the formation of our products, services, and partnerships, which attendees will see and experience at InfoComm. 

First up is our new, award-winning MaxColor 4K60 Series. It natively supports 4K60 in and out to allow end users to play Ultra HD video from the growing number of 4K sources and devices on the market. We released this product last year and people couldn’t wait for it to ship!

Our Warp Engine transmitter took home the best of show award at InfoComm 2021 in Orlando, and we’re excited to have it displayed in Las Vegas for anyone who didn’t have the opportunity to experience it. The latest specialized product in our 3G Ultra line, the Warp Engine can rotate video in 0.1-degree increments, to single screens or video walls, to allow screens to be mounted at any angle. The eye-catching displays that can be created with this product are limited only by the installer’s imagination.

Finally, we have the ST1 sound transceiver, an audio-only device that can serve as an input or an output. Integrators can add a stereo audio source to any Just Add Power system or extract stereo audio from an existing transmitter. With this one device, integrators can manipulate the audio signal in a multitude of ways to suit customer’s desires.

InfoComm Booth: N2473

Roadmaps to IC22: InfoComm 2022 Exhibitors Share Insider's Perspective

Check out the more than 50 Roadmaps here!

56 AV/IT Company Roadmaps 2022 

>> 22Miles Roadmap 2022

>> Absen Roadmap 2022

>> AMX Roadmap 2022 

>> ATEN Technologies Roadmap 2022

>> AtlasIED Roadmap 2022

>> Atlona Roadmap 2022

>> Auton Motorized Systems Roadmap 2022

>> Avnu Alliance Roadmap 2022

>> Barix Roadmap 2022 

>> Barco Roadmap 2022 

>> BenQ America Roadmap 2022

>> Biamp Roadmap 2022 

>> Black Box Roadmap 2022 

>> BlueJeans by Verizon Roadmap 2022

>> BrightSign Roadmap 2022

>> C2G Roadmap 2022

>> Chief Roadmap 2022

>> ClearOne Roadmap 2022

>> Crestron Roadmap 2022 

>> Daktronics Roadmap 2022

>> Datapath Roadmap 2022

>> EPOS Audio Roadmap 2022 

>> Hall Technologies Roadmap 2022

>> IHSE USA Roadmap 2022 

>> Intel Roadmap 2022 

>> Just Add Power Roadmap 2022

>> Kramer Roadmap 2022

>> Legrand|AV Roadmap 2022 

>> Listen Technologies Roadmap 2022

>> Logitech Roadmap 2022

>> LynTec Roadmap 2022

>> Macnica Roadmap 2022

>> Matrox Roadmap 2022 

>> Meyer Sound Roadmap 2022

>> NETGEAR Roadmap 2022

>> Nureva Roadmap 2022

>> Optoma Roadmap 2022 

>> Planar Roadmap 2022

>> Poly Roadmap 2022

>> Prysm Systems Roadmap 2022 

>> PTZOptics Roadmap 2022

>> QSC Roadmap 2022

>> Red Dot Digital Media Roadmap 2022

>> RTI Roadmap 2022

>> Samsung Roadmap 2022 

>> SAVI Controls Roadmap 2022 

>> Sennheiser Roadmap 2022

>> Shure Roadmap 2022

>> Sonic Foundry Roadmap 2022

>> Sony Roadmap 2022

>> Utelogy Roadmap 2022

>> Vanco International Roadmap 2022

>> ViewSonic Roadmap 2022

>> VuWall Roadmap 2022

>> Xilica Roadmap 2022

>> Yamaha Unified Communications Roadmap 2022

>> Zoom Roadmap 2022

AVT Question: Please share your company's philosophy, vision, and product roadmap heading into InfoComm 2022. [June 2022]

Thought Leader: Tzahi Madgar, President of HDBaseT Alliance

As professional AV’s largest interoperable ecosystem, the HDBaseT Alliance has long been committed to fostering an environment of greater flexibility and inclusiveness among our industry’s community. This has never been clearer than in recent years, as global supply-chain challenges have effectively brought into focus, especially for integrators and installers, the importance of access to brand-agnostic solutions that work together seamlessly. With an ecosystem of over 200 members, and thousands of products in the market supporting the HDBaseT standard, I am proud to say that each day HDBaseT is helping them skirt some of these obstacles, and all without sacrificing a single pixel on quality or reliability.

At the heart of our efforts to spearhead the ongoing advancement of this truly interoperable ecosystem is our Spec 3.0 of the HDBaseT standard. This latest generation supports the extension of fully uncompressed 4K@60Hz 4:4:4, audio, USB 2.0, 1Gb Ethernet, controls, and up to 100 watts of power—all over a single, standard, Category 6a cable—up to 100m/328ft. In just over 6 months since the first wave of HDBaseT 3.0 products made their debut on our booth’s signature Power Wall at InfoComm 2021, the number that will be displayed there at this year’s show has grown by over 200 percent—a true testament to the technology’s game-changing potential. Clearly, we are only scratching the surface of the market’s demand for the high-bandwidth, uncompressed, multimedia signal distribution with zero latency that only HDBaseT 3.0 can provide.

Heading into the second half of 2022, we are excited to continue providing our members with more opportunities for innovation, expanding the number of interoperable products for integrators and installers to choose from, and widening the array of real-world applications for professional AV, with greater capabilities than ever before.

InfoComm Booth: W1337

Roadmaps to IC22: InfoComm 2022 Exhibitors Share Insider's Perspective

Check out the more than 50 Roadmaps here!

56 AV/IT Company Roadmaps 2022 

>> 22Miles Roadmap 2022

>> Absen Roadmap 2022

>> AMX Roadmap 2022 

>> ATEN Technologies Roadmap 2022

>> AtlasIED Roadmap 2022

>> Atlona Roadmap 2022

>> Auton Motorized Systems Roadmap 2022

>> Avnu Alliance Roadmap 2022

>> Barix Roadmap 2022 

>> Barco Roadmap 2022 

>> BenQ America Roadmap 2022

>> Biamp Roadmap 2022 

>> Black Box Roadmap 2022 

>> BlueJeans by Verizon Roadmap 2022

>> BrightSign Roadmap 2022

>> C2G Roadmap 2022

>> Chief Roadmap 2022

>> ClearOne Roadmap 2022

>> Crestron Roadmap 2022 

>> Daktronics Roadmap 2022

>> Datapath Roadmap 2022

>> EPOS Audio Roadmap 2022 

>> Hall Technologies Roadmap 2022

>> IHSE USA Roadmap 2022 

>> Intel Roadmap 2022 

>> Just Add Power Roadmap 2022

>> Kramer Roadmap 2022

>> Legrand|AV Roadmap 2022 

>> Listen Technologies Roadmap 2022

>> Logitech Roadmap 2022

>> LynTec Roadmap 2022

>> Macnica Roadmap 2022

>> Matrox Roadmap 2022 

>> Meyer Sound Roadmap 2022

>> NETGEAR Roadmap 2022

>> Nureva Roadmap 2022

>> Optoma Roadmap 2022 

>> Planar Roadmap 2022

>> Poly Roadmap 2022

>> Prysm Systems Roadmap 2022 

>> PTZOptics Roadmap 2022

>> QSC Roadmap 2022

>> Red Dot Digital Media Roadmap 2022

>> RTI Roadmap 2022

>> Samsung Roadmap 2022 

>> SAVI Controls Roadmap 2022 

>> Sennheiser Roadmap 2022

>> Shure Roadmap 2022

>> Sonic Foundry Roadmap 2022

>> Sony Roadmap 2022

>> Utelogy Roadmap 2022

>> Vanco International Roadmap 2022

>> ViewSonic Roadmap 2022

>> VuWall Roadmap 2022

>> Xilica Roadmap 2022

>> Yamaha Unified Communications Roadmap 2022

>> Zoom Roadmap 2022

AVT Question: Please share your company's philosophy, vision, and product roadmap heading into InfoComm 2022. [June 2022]

Thought Leader: Anna Kozel, Director of Marketing at VuWall

VuWall is dedicated to helping customers in control rooms and corporate workspaces increase productivity and enhance visualization experiences with innovative video wall technology. VuWall’s goal remains the same: To continue developing powerful, interoperable tools that facilitate the installation and operation of all IP devices and applications from one easy-to-use, centralized platform. 

VuWall’s latest TRx 3.2 release brings enhanced performance, usability and interoperability. This version also features a new plug-in to the Genetec Security Center for a seamlessly integrated solution that allows operators to visualize IP cameras on video walls with other content sources from a single easy-to-use platform. Looking forward, VuWall continues to focus on facilitating interoperability in the AV industry, already supporting SDVoE, IHSE, Matrox and NDI-compatible devices. Organizations expect to be able to grow their pool of IP equipment as their needs evolve while controlling their AV infrastructure from a single software platform. TRx is the only software platform that brings such flexibility to control a multi-brand environment with seamless compatibility.

The demand for multi-source, multi-video wall deployments is at an all-time high and continues to accelerate. The progress of the AV-over-IP transition; the convergence of AV and IT; the affordability of networks, displays; and the market demand for more flexibility and interoperability have created a unique need for a distributed video wall solution. VuWall addresses and solves these challenges and limitations with the introduction of the PAK video wall node, which is used to deploy and manage modular video walls in AV-over-IP environments. PAK eliminates complicated wiring, a single point of failure, and past challenges by creating the most efficient networked video wall solution. In line with VuWall’s vision to simplify video wall integration and operation, PAK brings the added value that VuWall customers demand: versatility, scalability and security.

InfoComm Booth: N1569

Roadmap to IC22: InfoComm 2022 Exhibitors Share Insider's Perspective

Check back often as this list will be updated through InfoComm 2022. 

Absen's Roadmap to IC22 

Aurora Multimedia's Roadmap to IC22 

Covid, Inc.'s Roadmap to IC22 

Epiphan Video's Roadmap to IC22 

Hall Technologies Roadmap to IC22 

Legrand | AV's Roadmap to IC22 

Neutrik Americas' Roadmap to IC22 

Peerless-AV's Roadmap to IC22 

Poly's Roadmap to IC22 

PTZOptics' Roadmap to IC22 

Samsung's Roadmap to IC22 

Sennheiser's Roadmap to IC22 

Shure's Roadmap to IC22 

Sony Electronics' Roadmap to IC22 

tvONE's Roadmap to IC22 

Utelogy's Roadmap to IC22 

Yamaha UC's Roadmap to IC22

Logitech's Roadmap to IC22

56 AV/IT Company Roadmaps 2022 

>> 22Miles Roadmap 2022

>> Absen Roadmap 2022

>> AMX Roadmap 2022 

>> ATEN Technologies Roadmap 2022

>> AtlasIED Roadmap 2022

>> Atlona Roadmap 2022

>> Auton Motorized Systems Roadmap 2022

>> Avnu Alliance Roadmap 2022

>> Barix Roadmap 2022 

>> Barco Roadmap 2022 

>> BenQ America Roadmap 2022

>> Biamp Roadmap 2022 

>> Black Box Roadmap 2022 

>> BlueJeans by Verizon Roadmap 2022

>> BrightSign Roadmap 2022

>> C2G Roadmap 2022

>> Chief Roadmap 2022

>> ClearOne Roadmap 2022

>> Crestron Roadmap 2022 

>> Daktronics Roadmap 2022

>> Datapath Roadmap 2022

>> EPOS Audio Roadmap 2022 

>> Hall Technologies Roadmap 2022

>> IHSE USA Roadmap 2022 

>> Intel Roadmap 2022 

>> Just Add Power Roadmap 2022

>> Kramer Roadmap 2022

>> Legrand|AV Roadmap 2022 

>> Listen Technologies Roadmap 2022

>> Logitech Roadmap 2022

>> LynTec Roadmap 2022

>> Macnica Roadmap 2022

>> Matrox Roadmap 2022 

>> Meyer Sound Roadmap 2022

>> NETGEAR Roadmap 2022

>> Nureva Roadmap 2022

>> Optoma Roadmap 2022 

>> Planar Roadmap 2022

>> Poly Roadmap 2022

>> Prysm Systems Roadmap 2022 

>> PTZOptics Roadmap 2022

>> QSC Roadmap 2022

>> Red Dot Digital Media Roadmap 2022

>> RTI Roadmap 2022

>> Samsung Roadmap 2022 

>> SAVI Controls Roadmap 2022 

>> Sennheiser Roadmap 2022

>> Shure Roadmap 2022

>> Sonic Foundry Roadmap 2022

>> Sony Roadmap 2022

>> Utelogy Roadmap 2022

>> Vanco International Roadmap 2022

>> ViewSonic Roadmap 2022

>> VuWall Roadmap 2022

>> Xilica Roadmap 2022

>> Yamaha Unified Communications Roadmap 2022

>> Zoom Roadmap 2022

AVT Question: Please share your company's philosophy, vision, and product roadmap heading into InfoComm 2022. [June 2022]

Thought Leader: Mark Roslon, Director of Product Management, Commercial Displays at Epson America

At Epson, we are committed to building large, spectacular, and immersive displays that can efficiently and cost effectively deliver transformative experiences across a wide range of markets, including live events, experiential, art, signage, corporate, house of worship, and education.

After two years of being away, Epson is eager to be back at InfoComm to demonstrate our latest projection technology in person. Epson’s booth will showcase its premium projection solutions that integrate seamlessly into virtually any environment and transform spaces into unique experiences unbound by a frame. 

Epson engineers listen to customers and continue to innovate with smaller, lighter, and brighter solutions. Epson will showcase the world’s smallest and lightest 20,000-lumen and 10,000-lumen projectors; along with its ultra-wide, extra-big display solutions; flexible signage technology; and its impressive projector management and installation tools. 

Shown for the first time in the U.S., Epson will highlight its new 13,000-, 16,000-, and 20,000-lumen projectors, including the EB-PU2220B and EB-PU2120W, which are 60 percent smaller and 50 percent lighter than predecessors. Epson will also show the new PixAlign ELPEC01 camera that attaches to select Epson projectors and lenses. PixAlign is a powerful tool that makes advanced projection installations, such as edge blending and stacking, easier than ever before. 

Addressing today’s education and corporate display needs, Epson will also demonstrate hybrid collaboration and learning solutions that enable all participants to see, be seen, and participate equally, whether they are in person or remote. Epson’s booth will also include digital signage solutions that enable creative minds to deliver immersive, experiential moments to be remembered.

From compact and portable to powerful, permanent-install projectors, Epson, the market leader, offers an extensive selection of advanced three-chip display technology options, engineered for reliability, extraordinary image quality, and incredible brightness in virtually any environment.

InfoComm Booth: N2331

Roadmap to IC22: InfoComm 2022 Exhibitors Share Insider's Perspective

Check back often as this list will be updated through InfoComm 2022. 

Absen's Roadmap to IC22 

Aurora Multimedia's Roadmap to IC22 

Covid, Inc.'s Roadmap to IC22 

Epiphan Video's Roadmap to IC22 

Hall Technologies Roadmap to IC22 

Legrand | AV's Roadmap to IC22 

Neutrik Americas' Roadmap to IC22 

Peerless-AV's Roadmap to IC22 

Poly's Roadmap to IC22 

PTZOptics' Roadmap to IC22 

Samsung's Roadmap to IC22 

Sennheiser's Roadmap to IC22 

Shure's Roadmap to IC22 

Sony Electronics' Roadmap to IC22 

tvONE's Roadmap to IC22 

Utelogy's Roadmap to IC22 

Yamaha UC's Roadmap to IC22

Logitech's Roadmap to IC22

56 AV/IT Company Roadmaps 2022 

>> 22Miles Roadmap 2022

>> Absen Roadmap 2022

>> AMX Roadmap 2022 

>> ATEN Technologies Roadmap 2022

>> AtlasIED Roadmap 2022

>> Atlona Roadmap 2022

>> Auton Motorized Systems Roadmap 2022

>> Avnu Alliance Roadmap 2022

>> Barix Roadmap 2022 

>> Barco Roadmap 2022 

>> BenQ America Roadmap 2022

>> Biamp Roadmap 2022 

>> Black Box Roadmap 2022 

>> BlueJeans by Verizon Roadmap 2022

>> BrightSign Roadmap 2022

>> C2G Roadmap 2022

>> Chief Roadmap 2022

>> ClearOne Roadmap 2022

>> Crestron Roadmap 2022 

>> Daktronics Roadmap 2022

>> Datapath Roadmap 2022

>> EPOS Audio Roadmap 2022 

>> Hall Technologies Roadmap 2022

>> IHSE USA Roadmap 2022 

>> Intel Roadmap 2022 

>> Just Add Power Roadmap 2022

>> Kramer Roadmap 2022

>> Legrand|AV Roadmap 2022 

>> Listen Technologies Roadmap 2022

>> Logitech Roadmap 2022