Jabra and Lenovo are expanding their collaboration to offer a second-generation videoconferencing meeting room solution—the Jabra PanaCast 50 Room System 2, optimized for heavy AI workload and offering greater flexibility and a simplified user experience.

[Videoconferencing Industry in Same Sandbox but with Different Toys]

“As hybrid work continues to evolve, so do the demands for how teams connect and collaborate, especially with the increasing use of AI-enhanced tools," said Holger Reisinger, SVP enterprise video business unit at Jabra. "We’re proud to collaborate with Lenovo on the second generation of the Jabra PanaCast 50 Room System to deliver an AI-optimized, future-ready solution. Together, we’re equipping meeting spaces with more compute power, greater flexibility and more options to support seamless and inclusive collaboration in any environment.”

The new solution retains Jabra’s 180-degree panoramic 4K plug-and-play video solution, the Jabra PanaCast 50, while introducing the Lenovo ThinkSmart Core Gen 2—an AI-optimized compute device built for demanding meeting room workloads. It also features two new touchscreen controller options, a USB and IP version, providing flexibility for various room setups and ensuring easy installation. The PanaCast 50 Room System 2 is designed to elevate Microsoft Teams Rooms setups, so teams can connect, share and collaborate seamlessly and with enhanced security features.

The Jabra PanaCast 50 Room System 2 meets a growing need for simple, reliable technology that supports better hybrid meetings. Research shows that remote participants feel more included, more focused and less fatigued when high-quality audio and video are used in meeting rooms. By collaborating with Lenovo, Jabra is offering a solution that delivers the clarity, flexibility and control needed to make meetings more inclusive and effective for everyone—whether they’re in the room or joining remotely.

Future-Proof Video Conferencing Solution

The PanaCast 50 Room System 2 delivers targeted improvements to address the evolving demands of hybrid work and the increasing use of AI-enhanced collaboration tools. As workplaces adopt more AI-driven features to improve productivity and communication, the system’s infrastructure must keep pace. While the PanaCast 50 video bar remains unchanged delivering AI-powered 4K video and crystal-clear audio, the new bundle introduces a more powerful Lenovo compute device optimized for AI-heavy workloads and two Lenovo controller options to provide greater flexibility and adaptability.

The Lenovo ThinkSmart Core Gen 2 is purpose-built to handle the increasingly heavy AI workloads with faster AI processing. The compute device is powered by Intel Core Ultra 5 processors, improving video, audio and AI performance, while reducing power consumption by up to 40% for increased energy efficiency.

Giving a more flexible and seamless experience, the compute device also now features USB-C integration, so users easily can share their screen, charge their laptop or run a meeting in BYOD (bring your own device) mode, which enables access to the PanaCast 50 video bar from any platform.

Furthermore, it comes with several hardware improvements. It features a more functional cable cover that users can slide open, ideal for behind-the-display installations where there isn’t enough space to open a lid. Additionally, it includes a detachable cable management tray, which is beneficial for placing compute devices in areas with very limited space. Lastly, it comes with a power adapter cage for easy cable management when mounting.

To meet different room configurations and budget needs, the system now offers two new touch controller options. A simple plug-and-play USB touch controller for straightforward deployments, the Lenovo Thinksmart USB controller, and a flexible network-based IP touch controller, the Lenovo IP controller, for high-performance environments giving flexibility in installation as this touch controller can be placed up to 100 meters from the compute device.

“Hybrid collaboration is evolving fast, and meeting spaces need solutions that are ready for what’s next with AI-enabled applications and features," said Marcus Kennedy, general manager, commercial solutions at Lenovo. "Together with Jabra, Lenovo has created a system that brings advanced compute power and greater flexibility together with industry leading Video experience—helping teams connect more easily and work more effectively from anywhere.”

Founded in 2017 with a single office and an inherited basic conference room setup—a TV and a plug-in USB camera—private equity group and financial firm Further Global soon realized its limitations as conferencing needs increased and the business grew. After expanding into a second office space in the same building, Further Global set out to create a modern, high-quality conference center and meeting environment that would reflect the firm’s professionalism.

Mitch Pessin, vice president and co-founder of Solarus Technologies, and Kevin Muller, a director from Further Global’s operations team collaborated to design and implement a state-of-the-art AV solution that aligned with the firm’s vision and unique needs. Known for its commitment to custom solutions that cater to the unique needs of each client, Solarus Technologies has been a long-time partner of Yamaha Corporation of America and its Unified Communications division. With guidance from Susan Rullo, chief executive officer of Rullo Technologies, Pessin and Muller were able to provide the right solution.

“Our client required an AV solution that could meet a range of environments, including corporate and team meetings, remote conferences, and live events,” Pessin commented. “While focusing on audio clarity, ease of use, and system flexibility to support various conferencing platforms, Yamaha’s ADECIA solutions were a natural choice.”

The system upgrade for both rooms included a Yamaha RM-CR, a digital signal processor that is central to the room's audio system, managing sound clarity and distribution. RM-CG ceiling microphone arrays were positioned in each room for optimal audio capture, and Yamaha RM-TT tabletop microphones were used as supplemental mics to enhance audio capture, especially for meeting participants sitting farther from the ceiling mics. The tabletop microphones also serve the secondary but important purpose of distributing easily accessible MUTE buttons across the table, and the built-in red and green LEDs in each RM-TT indicate the room’s mute status during a meeting. The system in both rooms also includes a control room computer that can be operated from the conference table using a wireless mouse and keyboard and supports a BYOD setup for users to take advantage of ADECIA’s full audio capabilities.

ADECIA handles all the audio balancing and adjusting automatically, which ensures that no matter where participants are in the room, their voices are picked up clearly at normal conversation volume. “In the AV world, audio quality is critical,” Pessin highlighted. “If the video drops during a Zoom call, but the audio remains, you’re fine. But if you lose audio, you’re kind of sunk.”

Muller added, “Our team has reported a significant improvement in the audio quality of their live events and remote meetings. It’s incredibly user-friendly and adaptable to various audiences and needs. The setup is sleek; it combines a modern and minimalistic design with automated functions so that everything works perfectly with minimal intervention.”

Yamaha’s ADECIA solutions are advanced yet straightforward, and its open architecture is engineered for ultimate adaptability. In Further Global’s application, the ADECIA system integrates with an AVer PTZ310, a 4K Ultra HD resolution pan-tilt-zoom camera with IP-based control. In the smaller conference room, the camera features auto voice tracking, which allows it to automatically follow the voice of the person presenting and zoom in on speakers. The open architecture of ADECIA ensures that its sound system and AVer’s cameras can seamlessly communicate with each other over standard protocols.

“Another key advantage of the ADECIA architecture is that everything is powered over PoE, which greatly streamlined the installation,” Pessin added. “Since one cable carries both the audio signals and power, we could reduce cable clutter and keep the installation much more organized.”

Global’s new system upgrade is designed to be more than just a conference space; it is a shared workspace that reinforces a culture of teamwork. The system’s USB audio capabilities allow for multiple audio inputs, making it easy to switch between sources with the push of a button. Similarly, the HDMI support allows for video to be switched between different sources—like a personal computer or a device at the table—providing quick, seamless transitions for different types of work and collaboration.

With these conference room upgrades, Further Global has two spaces that embody their dedication to quality and forward-thinking. The Yamaha ADECIA system delivers crystal-clear audio and adaptability, turning these rooms into dynamic spaces where both in-person and virtual collaboration flow effortlessly and strengthen client relationships and teamwork.

During a virtual event this morning, Sennheiser unveiled its entry into the all-in-one unified communications AV bar market with two solutions for small and mid-sized collaboration spaces.

From its headquarters in Germany, Daniel and Andreas Sennheiser, Co-CEOs of Sennheiser Group set up the big announcement. Daniel Sennheiser led the discussion by stating, “We live and breathe audio. We have continued to stand for reliable technology and extraordinary audio experiences for nearly 80 years, these decades of expertise in audio flowing to all our products, we listen carefully to understand our customer's ideas, challenges, and ambitions, and translate them into new technologies, work streams, and products that are as individual as our customer's needs. With our business communication solutions, we have transferred this creative dissatisfaction and pioneering spirit from recording studios and stages into the world of collaboration, meeting, and learning. We set out to be present with our products in the majority of meeting rooms and lecture halls around the world.”

Andreas Sennheiser, said,” Over the past years, we have seen tremendous growth in our business communication portfolio and Sennheiser presence in the market. At the same time, we have proven to be a reliable business partner being able to meet our customers’ needs even throughout a component crisis. One shining example of Sennheiser’s ambition to deliver products that truly meet our customers where they are is our TeamConnect family with TeamConnect. Our team has developed a range of products that are intuitively usable, manufacturer agnostic and audibly better, while offering real problem-solving capabilities to facilitate collaboration and learning.

Sennheiser’s head of marketing, Christopher Currier got the honor of introducing the TeamConnect Bar. “A vision based on customer centricity, solution-oriented products, and an open ecosystem with our alliance partners that allows you the freedom and flexibility to control your project without being boxed into one particular ecosystem or brand.”

Part of the Sennheiser TeamConnect Family, the TeamConnect (TC) Bar Solutions options for small (TeamConnect Bar S) or mid-sized (TeamConnect Bar M) meeting and collaboration spaces, the TC Bar Solutions are true problem solvers with benefits like easy setup, brand agnostic integration, easy management & control, high video quality, security, and sustainability.

The TC Bar S features four microphones and two speakers, while TC Bar M has 6 microphones and four speakers. Both easily integrate with any meeting platform and can be further enhanced with other compatible products, including those from Sennheiser.

Ronja Harste, product manager, UC Solutions at Sennheiser, said, “The microphones are of course premium microphone capsules that offer beamforming technology for high speech intelligibility and the speakers are powerful full-range stereo speakers incorporating improved directivity and optimized passive radiators. Both the TeamConnect Bar S and Bar M feature trusted ER audio quality and a 4K Ultra HD camera. But where we've improved the collaboration experience is through features like auto framing and person tiling. We believe that these new features truly enhance the feeling of equity and inclusion for all.

Think about the last meeting you were a part of where there was a longer conference table. If you were using the TeamConnect ceiling tool or another premium audio solution, it was probably pretty easy to hear participants at the far end of the table, but could you see them? With person tiling, each member of the meeting is brought front and center and given their own tile in the meeting. As long as the camera can see them, the advanced AI algorithms will give them their own tile so that remote participants feel just as connected to the person at the front of the room as those in the back. Auto framing also keeps everyone in view even as they move, whether shifting slightly in their share or getting up to move about the room. But, of course, if you prefer a more traditional view of the meeting room, all of these features are easily turned on and off using the included remote control,” Harste said.

“At Sennheiser, we've specialized in superior audio quality for years, but found a strong video partner in the independent test laboratory ‘Image Engineering’ to ensure that the video quality stood up to the audio quality that is synonymous with our brand,” added Harste. “That led to the development of our first all-in-one device, the TeamConnect Bar Solutions, which are the most feature-rich all-in-one conferencing devices in their class.”

The TC Bar Solutions provide unparalleled freedom and flexibility, allowing customer to choose the right video conferencing device for their meeting room size. Easily integrate the TC Bar into a room design with multiple mounting options like wall mount, VESA mount, tabletop or freestanding. The option of using Dante for adding extension mics and/or a 2nd external USB camera make the device even more scalable.

The powerful full-range stereo speakers with their improved directivity pattern and optimized passive radiators ensure natural speech and outstanding intelligibility. Integrated beamforming technology enables seamless transition between presenters and offers freedom of movement and configuration within the space.

The built-in DSP, as well as the option to adjust your audio settings via Sennheiser Control Cockpit, gives users the opportunity to further optimize room acoustics. The TC Bars also come with an automatic conference and music mode switch to provide the best audio to match the content.

The TeamConnect Bar Solutions feature some of the latest advances in meeting technology to further enhance modern hybrid meetings and lectures—taking video to the next level. The 4K Ultra HD camera is further enhanced by AI features like "Autoframing" and "Person Tiling", enabling all remote participants to clearly see everyone in the room. With advanced AI, even the smallest gestures and facial expressions are conveyed to ensure increased meeting inclusion and engagement.

Thanks to Sennheiser’s open and agnostic ecosystem philosophy, the TC Bars are also compatible with many major Media Control Systems from our Alliance Partners, with certifications currently in process. For basic adjustments, several features, like zoom, person tiling, and more, can be found on the included remote control.

When it comes to security, the TC Bar Solutions follow industry best security practices, and their configuration is password protected. The communication to the Sennheiser Control Cockpit, as well as 3rd party media control systems, is encrypted using industry-standard Transport Layer Security 1.2 and safe from misuse. The TC Bars also support IEEE 802.1x network authentication and, of course, for additional privacy, a lens cap is included.

The TC Bar Solutions received a distinction with the Red Dot Award: Product Design 2023. Following the assessment, the jury unanimously said: "The high-quality fabric covering elegantly conceals the powerful speakers and microphone array. The central camera module with surrounding LED ring serves as a user interface and is the striking design element of the otherwise unobtrusive device that integrates well into any environment.”

Since being released this past autumn, Konftel's interactive room type guide has received industry-wide acclaim, helping resellers and their customers "cut through the conferencing jungle" and speed-up the sales cycle.

The new tool--available here--showcases Konftel's expanded product portfolio based on collaboration solutions for any room type, highlighting how video is everywhere and everywhere is video, in a rapidly evolving workplace.

[Joliet High Schools Embrace Konftel Conferencing Solutions to Support Hybrid Learning]

The guide helps users pinpoint the optimum set-up to understand the different dynamics of any video meeting scenario. The innovative 3D guide identifies the most appropriate products and connectivity set-up, from personal workspaces, focus and huddle rooms to large multipurpose rooms, based on an overall objective to optimize video enabled meetings, whatever the layout. 

Kevin Johnson, sales director at Jenne Inc., a leading value-added distributor serving agents and value-added resellers throughout the U.S., is finding Konftel's 3D Interactive Room Guide to be a valuable sales tool. 

[Konftel Comes to Marymount Cuernavaca and a High-Quality Hybrid Learning Experience Serves Students Well]

"Konftel's Room Guide feature is extremely helpful for my team members to provide a quick product recommendation to our valued partners," Johnson said. "It provides a great visualization of how the product fits in an end user's environment opposed to relying solely on spec sheets. The interactive guide expedites the sales process by allowing the user to locate the right product for any application without any guess work." 

'One Size Does Not Fit All When Outfitting Various Room Types and Areas' 

According to Danny Hayasaka, Sr. Director of Marketing & Emerging Technology at telecommunications equipment suppliers Call One, Inc. and Hello Direct, Inc., Konftel's 3D Interactive Room Guide simplifies the sales process.

"We support a broad range of customers across multiple industries who are revisiting their meeting room setups," said Hayasaka. "Their goal is to video-enable these spaces to support hybrid work models. One size does not fit all when outfitting the various room types and areas."

[Konftel Strengthens Climate Neutral Ethos]

"Konftel has simplified the process by creating an online room configuration tool that provides audio and video device recommendations based on the room size and layout," Hayasaka added.

According to Konftel U.S. sales director Peter Gasparro, a major benefit is the ability to show how solutions can function in diverse environments. "Whether we're dealing with a home office, a cubicle, a huddle room, a collaboration space, a conference room or a multi-purpose room, the room guide is designed to outfit your specific room with the proper equipment," he said.

Because we’re softies at heart, we thought we'd take this Valentine’s Day to celebrate 14 articles that you’ve shown the most love, on AVnetwork.com during the past six months.

1: SCN Top 50 Systems Integrators 2021 Always an industry favorite. Year-after-year, the Systems Contractor News reporting of the top systems integrators is our energizer bunny.

2: Meyer Sound Resumes the Long Strange Trip with Dead & Company on Tour Meyer Sound's enduring relationship with the Grateful Dead (and subsequent spin-offs) extends back prior to the company's founding in 1979, with company President & CEO John Meyer consulting on the legendary Wall of Sound. The band was often heard through the Meyer-designed JM-3 and JM-10 loudspeakers from McCune Audio shortly thereafter.

3: Exclusive Interview: QSC Creates Two Independent Divisions Capitalizing on its strengths in pro audio and AV/IT systems, QSC is undergoing a realignment of the organization to unlock new growth and better serve its customers.

4: Winners Announced: Best of Show and Best of Market at InfoComm 2021 for AV Technology and Digital Signage Our judges are experts in the categories of products we have chosen for them to evaluate and always remain anonymous to the manufacturers. They are your peers, AV/IT managers, directors, and engineers, or industry consultants and integrators.

5: Audinate Responds to the Dante Supply Chain Question AV Technology reached out to Audinate to respond directly to questions that have been on everyone’s mind regarding Dante.

6: LG Debuts 136-inch All-in-One LED Display LG Business Solutions USA has launched a 136-inch All-in-One LED display designed for ease of installation and portability when integrated with an optional mobile stand.

7: AV/IT Industry Acquisitions, Reorgs & Partnerships - 2022 is Off to a Quick Start With no fewer than a dozen announcements of acquisitions, reorganizations, partnerships, and rebranding, the AV/IT industry is poised for change in 2022. The more than 30 acquisitions of 2021 are having an impact today, with announcements from Almo and AVI-SPL leading the pack.

8: SCN 2021 Installation Product Awards At a ceremony at InfoComm on Tuesday, Systems Contractor News content director Mark Pescatore announced the winners of the 2021 Installation Product Awards, with wins from manufacturers including ClearOne, Kramer, Sharp NEC Display Solutions, Shure, Crestron and more. 

9: Selecting the Right Microphone for Your Conference Room As the hybrid work model continues to evolve, AV systems, particularly the audio component, have become a focus for improvement. Without intelligible audio, communication is tremendously difficult.

10: Samsung Reveals The Infinity Screen at L.A.’s SoFi Stadium Samsung and SoFi Stadium revealed the name of the 70,000 square-foot, dual-sided center-hung video board at Los Angeles’ SoFi Stadium. The Infinity Screen features what Samsung describes as the most LEDs ever used in a sports or entertainment venue.

11: SCN 2021 Installs of the Year SCN celebrates the firms that went above and beyond to create ultimate user experiences with our 2021 Installs of the Year.

12: The Ghost in the HDMI Machine HDMI is sensitive to a number of manufacturing decisions and installation conditions that can result in system failures.

13: North Carolina at Chapel Hill Opens Esports Arena UNC-Chapel Hill has put targeted programming and support models in place to both increase gaming in a healthy way and curtail negative effects of gaming. 

14: 23 Conferencing Audio Products for 2022 Hybrid meetings and remote classes have punctuated the need for quality audio and speech intelligibility, near and far. Microphones, speakers, DSPs, video conferencing bars, and more.

And an Extra Kiss: Celebrating 40 Years of Organic Diversity and The Metal Women of FSR From its inception in 1981, the multi-cultural team at FSR embraced diversity and gender equality. In an interview with FSR’s president, Jan Sandri we talk about diversity and celebrate the women of FSR’s metal shop.

Digital enablement service provider AVI-SPL has earned the Cloud Productivity competency from Microsoft at the Gold level. Microsoft Gold competencies demonstrate best-in-class capabilities within a specific solution area. As a Gold Cloud Productivity competency holder, AVI-SPL earns new benefits and support from Microsoft to meet the growing demand for cloud productivity solutions that fuel the modern workplace, like Microsoft 365, Teams, SharePoint Online and Exchange Online.

[AVI-SPL Expands Into Mexico]

Now with its fourth gold Microsoft partner competency, AVI-SPL further deepens and expands its investment in its Microsoft practice. It earned this latest accolade as a result of its continued commitment to delivering Microsoft 365 solutions like Microsoft Teams, Teams Meeting Rooms and Teams Phone. To reach this gold level, AVI-SPL passed qualifying exam requirements and achieved superb technology expertise, high levels of certified staffing, positive customer experience and key sales and performance thresholds.

AVI-SPL also holds Gold-level competencies for Communications, Collaboration and Content, and Project and Portfolio Management. As a Microsoft Gold Surface Hub Authorized Device Reseller, it's also one of the leading Surface Hub solutions providers in the world. AVI-SPL has won or been a finalist for the Surface Hub Partner of the Year for three of the past four Microsoft fiscal years.

[AVI-SPL Launches Symphony 5.0 to Simplify Meeting Experiences]

AVI-SPL guides customers to creating the modern, hybrid work experience with Microsoft with the following services and solutions:

      • Consulting workshops for Microsoft migrations, moving from or integrating a legacy voice system, Skype for Business, or another unified communications provider to Microsoft Teams.

       • Implementation and deployment of Microsoft Teams, Teams Rooms, Teams Rooms Premium, Teams Phone, and Microsoft Teams certified devices across the enterprise.

       • IT managed services for overseeing, supporting, and managing Microsoft cloud and unified communications environments.

       • Scheduling, monitoring, and remote management of Microsoft Teams rooms and connected devices to ensure their up-time.

[Epson, AVI-SPL, Igloo Vision Partnership Brings Leading Edge Tech to Orlando’s New Immersive Experience Center]

       • Training and adoption that is customized and customer-branded, in-person or online, with in-room signage and application support to ensure long-term, effective Microsoft usage.

       • Microsoft Teams user experience services to track, benchmark, manage, and optimize end-user experience of hybrid meetings, whether in office or remote, while reducing IT support needs.

       • Microsoft Teams Collaboration Security and Governance to help organizations balance the flexibility needs of end users with InfoSec approved security.

The What: Nureva is issuing the full release of Voice Amplification Mode for its HDL300 and Dual HDL300 audio conferencing systems. The feature has been in public beta since June. Voice Amplification Mode solves the difficult problem of supporting in-room amplification of the instructor or presenter's voice while simultaneously providing full-room microphone pickup of in-room voices so that everyone can be heard by remote participants. Positive customer feedback during the beta period highlights the immediate value of having a multifunction audio solution that easily and reliably covers both the in-class and remote scenarios, especially with a growing need for flexible, future-proofed systems that can adapt to support hybrid learning models.

The What Else: Teachers at Gilbert Public School in Arizona commented that they are excited that their voices can now be heard clearly both in the classroom and by remote students. This unique capability is made possible by Nureva's patented Microphone Mist technology, which fills a room with thousands of virtual microphones.

The Bottom Line: Voice Amplification Mode is now fully available to all HDL300 and Dual HDL300 customers through Nureva Console by updating their firmware to version 2.4.67 and selecting enable voice amplification in Nureva Console cloud. Once enabled, instructors or presenters use their wireless headset microphone to amplify their voice through the HDL300 speakers so that in-room students or meeting participants can clearly hear. At the same time, their voice is picked up for remote participants via their UC&C client, like Microsoft Teams, for which the HDL300 system is certified.

The What: Yamaha Unified Communications' ADECIA solution is now Barco certified, making it completely interoperable with Barco ClickShare Conference. ADECIA is a complete and intelligent microphone and line array speaker system designed to remove all barriers for equipping conference rooms and classrooms with superior audio quality.

The What Else: Barco's ClickShare Conference range of products work seamlessly not only with a user's display and camera setup without the hassle of physically connecting devices using cables and adapters but also with Yamaha's conferencing solutions, which now includes ADECIA as well as YVC-200 Portable USB & Bluetooth Speakerphone, YVC-330 USB & Bluetooth Speakerphone, and YVC-1000 Mic and Speaker System. Both Yamaha UC solutions and Barco ClickShare operate with all current UC platforms.

The Bottom Line: This certification furthers the ADECIA solution's value, bringing high-quality conferencing to even the most demanding spaces through a quality combination of solutions and API flexibilities. It also expands Yamaha's Barco certified product line, which includes the YVC Series.

Avocor is entering into a global partnership with Google Workspace and launching two new all-in-one video conferencing and digital whiteboarding devices—the Google Meet Series One Desk 27 and Board 65—to create meeting equity on the desktop and in shared meeting spaces. These two touch-enabled video devices expand the Google Meet Series One hardware portfolio for millions of Google Workspace users. 

In response to the proliferation of video-driven communication, Avocor, with Google Workspace, is enabling more equitable meeting experiences through human-focused hardware for both personal and group applications that prioritize giving everyone an equal seat at the table. These Series One devices give Google Workspace customers the most effective means to collaborate for every situation and space, from the desktop to the conference room.

Series One Desk 27

For collaboration on the desktop, Series One Desk 27 is a 27-inch premium all-in-one touchscreen Google Meet device, as well as a desk monitor, laptop docking station, and digital whiteboard that integrates Google Workspace's Jamboard app. Ideal for personal workstations including home offices, a powerful shared tool on rotating hot desks, and with uses in privacy spaces and phone booths, Series One Desk 27 offers the key features users need to see, hear and contribute to any meeting as if they were together in the same room. 

The device features an integrated soundbar and mic array for crystal-clear video and audio with TrueVoice, Google Workspace's multichannel noise cancellation technology that detects and eliminates distracting sounds while enhancing human voices so you are heard clearly on Desk 27, even in noisy environments.

Designed to do everything a laptop dock does, Desk 27 requires only power and Ethernet, and features a USB-C port for easy connection to a laptop, reducing cable clutter typically needed for power, video, and audio. Once connected to a laptop, users can easily access all their files and apps on the Desk 27, including everything on Google Workspace.

Board 65

While Desk 27 is a personal collaboration device, Board 65 is designed to bring teams together for more efficient, equitable, and intuitive collaboration. The 65-inch Series One Board 65 can be wall-mounted in small to midsized collaboration spaces and is ADA-compliant. It can also be placed on an optional purpose-built stand for mobility as a shared resource or for setting up spontaneous meetings anywhere. 

With an interactive touch display, Board 65 seamlessly connects both in-person and remote meeting attendees, enabling everyone in the room or on a call to see, hear, and contribute to meetings, brainstorming sessions, and impromptu huddle sessions equally. Meeting participants can also quickly connect their laptops via USB-C for power, device control and instant content sharing.

In addition to the same TrueVoice audio experience as Desk 27 for crystal-clear sound, Board 65 also has an onboard digital PTZ camera that provides a wide field of view to auto-frame participants using Google Workspace's continuous framing technology, support for voice-activated controls with "Hey Google," and native integration with the Google Jamboard app for immersive interactivity and whiteboarding from the display and from remote participants.

The Series One Desk 27 and Board 65 by Avocor feature a sleek design that is intuitive and easy to use, including an optically bonded screen. Both devices are tilt-optimized for a natural writing angle, with anti-fingerprint glass to offer an acutely sensitive writing experience, using fingers, palms or the included passive stylus for immersive whiteboarding where everyone can easily see and contribute.

Both Google Meet Series One Desk 27 from Avocor (MSRP $1,999 USD) and Google Meet Series One Board 65 from Avocor (expected MSRP $6,999 USD) are now available for customer pre-order at avocor.com/google. General availability is expected in late Q4 2021 for Desk 27 and Q1 2022 for Board 65. Both will be sold exclusively by Avocor through the Google Workspace global network of authorized resellers.

The What: Google has certified QSC's Q-SYS Platform for use with Google Meet hardware kits. This certification allows integrators and IT end users to select from any Q-SYS Core processor or USB audio bridging endpoint, regardless of processing or I/O requirements, to ensure seamless integration with Google Meet hardware.

The What Else: All Q-SYS Core processors are driven by Q-SYS OS, which was architected around standard IT protocols, a flexible and comprehensive control engine, with an intuitive and easy-to-use design software suite (Q-SYS Designer Software). This allows features to be developed at the software level, including AEC and audio processing, eliminating the need for dedicated pieces of hardware and simplifying the integration process. Also, it gives integrators and IT end users the flexibility to utilize a wide variety of AV-to-USB endpoints that meet the specific needs of high-value spaces without compromising on features or performance.

The Bottom Line: All Q-SYS Core processors are now certified for Google Meet, including the Core Nano, Core 8 Flex, Core 110f, Core 510i, and Core 5200.

The What: Shure's new Microflex A400MB touch-sensitive Mute Button accessory adds convenient audio mute functionality to the Microflex MX395-LED low-profile boundary microphones and MX405, MX410 and MX415 modular gooseneck microphones. This new accessory from Shure allows meeting participants confident control over audio muting, with easy and intuitive operation.

The What Else: The A400MB installs like a washer between the microphone body and the table or lectern surface, hiding the circuitry underneath the surface. The mute function is easily programmed with onboard switches to provide complete flexibility and can be configured as momentary (push-to-talk or push-to-mute) or toggled (push-on, push-off). The A400MB Mute Button includes local mode as well as remote mode, making it easier for users to focus on what they care about most.

The new A400MB Mute Button can be easily customized to address a variety of room types and configurations. If A400MB mute buttons are installed with multiple microphones on a table, pushing any mute button can mute all the mics simultaneously, and all microphone LEDs can also change color to show that the outgoing audio has been muted. 

The Bottom Line: When used with Shure ANI4IN-BLOCK or ANI22-BLOCK audio network interfaces and the IntelliMix P300 audio conferencing processor, the mute and LED behavior is synchronized to simultaneously mute them with Microsoft Teams and Zoom videoconferencing platforms. This means the user's mute status is instantly visible to all meeting participants, whether in the same room or joining from thousands of miles away.

After 15 months of working from home as a result of the pandemic, companies in the United States are hoping to establish an equilibrium this fall that hinges on bringing workers back to offices. But recent research  from EPOS finds that there is a notable divergence in the expectations of decision-makers and employees regarding the return to work: 56 percent of global business decision-makers expect an increase in employee time spent at the office, while only 26 percent of employees expect the same.

As hybrid working patterns begin to take shape globally, with employees scattered across cities and countries, audio and videoconferencing tools proved essential for keeping in touch. The new research, commissioned by EPOS and conducted by Ipsos, finds that professionals today spend an average of seven hours a week in virtual meetings—an increase of two hours a week in just the last year.

[The Technology Manager's Guide to Collaboration in the Post-COVID World]

In a world rebounding from a pandemic, progressive businesses need to embrace the best of both worlds. The benefits of virtual working are now well known, and employees are keen to preserve some of the convenience, flexibility, and adaptability that remote work promises. Though they may hope to bring employees back to the office, 99 percent of workplace decision-makers still see the advantage of virtual meetings, which deliver time and cost savings, and enable meetings to take place seamlessly across time zones.

Bridging the Gap Between Decision-Makers and Employees

As lockdowns begin to ease and signs of normal life return, many decision-makers are anticipating the advantages of a genuinely hybrid model for the workplace. However, there are notable differences of opinion between decision-makers and employees regarding the return to work.

This disparity is present globally, with the widest gulf in the United States, where 74 percent of employers expect workforces to return to the workplace, compared to just 29 percent of employees surveyed. These results suggest that on a global level, decision-makers need to engage and align with their employees to better understand their expectations. By understanding and meeting employee needs, business leaders create a strong hybrid working model that will in turn help secure future talent.

Forward-thinking sectors are already recognizing an opportunity to fully support remote work programs to tap into a vast and global talent pool, thereby creating greater business agility while gaining significant cost savings.

Alleviating the Pain Points of Bad Audio

For employees across all markets, critical challenges in the hybrid working setup stem from bad audio or video experiences, with close to all (89 percent) end users currently experiencing difficulties in virtual meetings. The most common experience issues include misunderstanding what’s being said in a meeting (26 percent) and missing out on critical information (21 percent), while a further 17 percent say that they appear unprofessional because of poor sound experiences. The experience issue extends to collaboration tools used, with 16 percent reporting that the equipment they use is “not fit for purpose,” while 13 percent report having difficulties seeing details shared on screen.

Over time these negative experiences can affect employees’ ability to focus, engage, and actively contribute. Fortunately, decision-makers are recognizing the impact that bad audio can have on their business and employee wellbeing: 88 percent accept that technology shortcomings have caused problems over the past year. A further 77 percent believe that the right technology can overcome collaboration experience issues and are prepared to make necessary investments in equipment and infrastructure. Solving technology problems could also go far in persuading employees that virtual meetings can be just as good as in-person ones going forward.

Successful businesses in the hybrid workplace will be defined by their ability to support employees with the right technology solutions, tailored to needs and expectations. Technology offers a clear way to bridge the gap between differing expectations and priorities: high-quality, integrated audiovisual solutions have the potential to bring the best of both worlds to post-pandemic work. Moreover, in helping to eliminate distractions, collaboration technology both enhances human interaction and increases professionalism, helping businesses to reach a gold standard for the hybrid workplace.

Get the full Virtual Collaboration report here. 

The What: QSC has announced Meeting Room Solutions, bundled conferencing systems that have been fully certified for use with Zoom Rooms. QSC worked with Zoom Video Communications and Q-SYS Ecosystem partner Sennheiser to create the systems.

[Biamp Debuts Zoom Rooms-Certified Bundles]

The What Else: The QSC Meeting Room Solutions for Zoom Rooms center on the Q-SYS Core 8 Flex processor, which combines audio, video, and control capabilities into a single integrated appliance. It also includes the QSC SPA Series two- and four-channel power amplifiers and the QSC AcousticDesign Series AD-C4T ceiling loudspeaker, as well as the Sennheiser TeamConnect Ceiling 2 (TCC2) microphone, which integrates seamlessly with Q-SYS via a control plugin.

“Our new solutions, offered with Zoom and Sennheiser, make it easier than ever to integrate a Zoom Rooms system into high value spaces,” said Jason Moss, vice president alliances and ecosystem, QSC. “Our system delivers a fully networked and managed AV&C infrastructure to Zoom Rooms via a single USB connection. Furthermore, with the software-based foundation of Q-SYS, users now have the flexibility to expand and manage their AV investment well into the future.” 

“The QSC and Sennheiser partnership takes the guesswork out of integrating Q-SYS and the TCC2 into any high value Zoom Rooms space,” said Charlie Jones, global alliance and partnership manager at Sennheiser. “With the available TCC2 plugin for Q-SYS, admins can easily configure the TCC2 microphone within Q-SYS Designer Software and monitor and manage it in Q-SYS Reflect Enterprise Manager.”

[QSC Announces NS Series Gen 2 Network Switches]

“QSC has been a staple in our Zoom pro AV designs for years,” said Shane Springer, solutions architect with Zoom. “With this new certification, QSC brings complete solutions that work together by design to enable flex spaces, classrooms, boardrooms, all-hands spaces, lecture halls, and more.”

The Bottom Line: QSC Meeting Room Solutions are designed to simplify integration complexity and allow users to easily scale their Zoom Rooms deployment in high-value spaces, while providing an intuitive and consistent user experience.

We’re finally getting a glimpse of what things at the office will look like moving forward. We all know how we got here, so I won’t bother with that recap, but safe to say we’re seeing the predictions of hybrid offices filled with flexible spaces start to come to life.  

[The Integration Guide to Conferencing & Collaboration]

As some of these discussions and plans turn into realities, I've been reflecting on the key components for a successful conferencing and collaboration space. While I'm not an interior design expert, I can certainly weigh in on the technology for conference rooms. 

First and foremost, get your integration partner involved as early as possible. Hard stop.

Well, you may have suspected that I’d start there, but it cannot be said enough: the sooner you bring your technology partners into the conversation, the better for everyone. The ongoing convergence of technologies means your trades need to be working together and have a clear understanding of who’s responsible for what and when  This is traditionally good advice, but it is also contemporarily good practice due to the current strain on supply chains being felt throughout the world.

[How to Hire an Integrator]

So now that you have your technology partners in the conversation, what should you be asking for? 

Well, hybrid spaces are all the rage—and for good reason. Minimizing your footprint and maximizing your space can be a huge swing in the right direction on the balance sheet, but it needs to be well-executed and maintained along the way. We’ve discovered you can maintain a smaller physical footprint and get just as much productivity out of it in exchange for offering people flexibility on when and where they work.  

Scheduling Solutions for Conference Rooms

A scheduling system is critical to pull this off effectively. The idea is collaborative spaces are flexible, and then you have a mixture of everyday workstations and offices that are both flexible and perpetually occupied. If person A wants to work three days from home and spend the other two days in the office on a flexible schedule, they book a shared workstation for those two days. If you have people rotate days, they can also share regularly assigned workstations. Your conference rooms and collaborative spaces are all bookable space. I recommend asking your integration partner about automation solutions that supercharge your scheduling system by giving people real-time access to the room’s status at any given time.

[How Room Monitoring Can Help Solve Workplace Uncertainty]

Conference Room Lighting

In addition to a good scheduling solution, you should also consider a conference room's lighting technologies. The modern space often involves camera angles, and it would be wise to design lighting solutions that are designed to light accordingly. This is not to say you need to turn your modern collaboration space into a television studio, but if you’re building a new space, it would be wise to opt for something beyond the can lights and ceiling grids of the old days.  

And in cases where you have dedicated presentation spaces (I’m looking at you lecture halls), then you absolutely can and should have dedicated lighting for your focus area.  As far as I’m concerned, if it is going to be on camera, then do what you can.  

[Adapting to the Hybrid Workplace]

Tying lighting into your control and automation systems is a no brainer.  This may seem like a luxury, but the goal here is removing variables from the users and people in the room so they can get into the room and start collaborating quickly—all while having a consistently good experience.

Conference Room Audio

In terms of audio, you want your integrator working in tandem with your interior designer to ensure the space has great acoustics. It can be disengaging for people on the other end of your calls to have to put up with poor audio, and it is often said that audio quality is more important for a good experience than good video. While hard surfaces and glass seem to be very popular in conference rooms, there are several design friendly ways to improve your audio experience—for both you and your colleagues on the other end of the call—by making sure your design team takes sound quality into consideration. From there, it’s all about selecting the right audio pickup solution for the space and making sure you support any in-room audio needs in addition to those on the far end.

There are many other things worth considering but given the focus on flex spaces and the surge in video conferencing, these few key aspects should get you going in the right direction.  At the very least, if you only took my first piece of advice (get your partners involved as early as possible) then you’ll be in good shape to explore your options and potential solutions before having to commit to a decision.

What would you add to this list? Tweet us at @JoeDinAV and @SCNMag to share your thoughts!

Nureva has joined the Logitech Collaboration Program to bring high-performance audio solutions to large spaces in combination with Logitech conferencing products. Through the program, Nureva’s HDL300 audio conferencing systems are combined with the Logitech Rally Camera, Logitech Tap meeting room touch controller, and the new Logitech RoomMate meeting room appliance (available this summer). Together, the products offer customers a streamlined conferencing experience with audio performance that is optimized for large meeting and learning environments.

[Logitech Unveils Scribe AI-Powered Whiteboard Camera]

The Logitech Collaboration Program enables technology companies to integrate and optimize their products with Logitech products to create conferencing solutions that are easier to use and deploy. The combination of Nureva audio and Logitech products enables teams to collaborate in a hybrid environment where in-room participants are clearly heard, no matter how they’re distanced. Using its Microphone Mist technology, Nureva’s approach to audio conferencing accommodates physical distancing requirements, so that in-room participants can spread out, face any direction, and move around the space as they talk. The system’s patented continuous autocalibration automatically adjusts to changes in room configurations, reducing the need for IT staff or technicians to visit meeting spaces.

“We are thrilled to join the Logitech Collaboration Program and offer a unique solution to address the audio requirements of large meeting and learning spaces,” said Nancy Knowlton, Nureva’s CEO. “As both companies’ products are certified for Microsoft Teams Rooms, the combination of Nureva and Logitech makes it easy for customers to enjoy the quality, hassle-free conferencing experience they demand.”

“We appreciate Nureva’s unique approach to audio conferencing and are pleased to have them as part of our LCP,” said Sudeep Trivedi, head of alliances and go-to-market at Logitech Video Collaboration. “By collaborating with Nureva, we are giving organizations more flexibility and choices in deploying well-designed, high-quality meeting experiences.”

The What: MSE Audio is now shipping the SoundTube IPD-TSB2.0 STNet Dante-enabled soundbar. The IPD-TSB2.0 Soundbar brings Dante connectivity from end-to-end in conferencing and boardroom video installations. Making the soundbar interoperable with other Dante products gives integrators additional flexibility when designing and installing audio systems.

The What Else: The IPD-TSB2.0 features a built-in amplifier and DSP (digital signal processor). The soundbar measures only one- and one-half inches thick where the bar meets the TV, is 6.75-inches tall and 43-inches wide. It incorporates a right and left speaker with four three-inch ultra-long throw polypropylene woofers with NBR surrounds, four bass radiators, and two 0.75-inch patented synthetic soft dome tweeters. Wall-mount and tabletop hardware are included.

The Dante Soundbar is made of extruded aluminum and has an integrated metal grill designed to fit seamlessly underneath 55-inch and larger monitors. With digital signals plus PoE power sent directly to the speakers via standard category cable, SoundTube’s STNet soundbar is simple to connect. The intelligent amplifier with DSP monitors the functions of the speaker and can send an alert if there are any problems with the soundbar.

The Bottom Line: Each IPD-TSB2.0 is configurable using SoundTube STNet Control Center software. The software is used to set up the soundbar via an 8-band parametric EQ, delay and input and output gain using a built-in pink noise generator. And, because they are on the Dante platform, they are interoperable with a host of other products worldwide. They may be used with SoundTube’s STNet Switch, offering up to 40 watts PoE to each speaker, or with standard PoE or PoE+ switches.

Biamp has announced the acquisition of Neets, an independent manufacturer of AV control systems based in Horsens, Denmark.

Neets offers a comprehensive family of device controllers, control interfaces, and control software. Neets' products and expertise enhance Biamp's current control offerings. In addition to control, Neets recently added to its portfolio several other products that target conferencing applications, including media bars, cameras, device hubs, and in-table connectivity systems.

[Biamp Debuts Zoom Rooms-Certified Bundles]

"Neets is a company I've been impressed by and have been following for many years,” said Rashid Skaf, Biamp president, CEO, and co-chairman. “Their products are notable for their extraordinary ease of use and careful consideration of everyone that encounters them in the product life cycle—from designer, to programmer, to installer, to end user. I'm extremely pleased to welcome Neets into the Biamp family. Their products directly complement our solutions and will allow us to target an even wider range of venue types, sizes, and use cases and offer even more complete systems. This acquisition makes it easier than ever for our customers to stay within the Biamp solutions family for all applications."

"I am excited to combine forces with Biamp and deliver the benefits of Neets' solutions to a global audience,” said Michael Jarl Christensen, CEO of Neets. “The Neets team has spent over two decades building and refining the best control solutions in the industry. As part of Biamp, with its broad product portfolio and worldwide distribution system, Neets will be able to deliver its products to a far larger customer community. Together, Biamp will offer one of the broadest, most capable family of AV solutions available from any vendor anywhere in the world."

Neets will join Biamp as a new product family within the company's portfolio, with business functions gradually being blended to form a single Biamp business. 

New York-based WeWork provides collaboration spaces for 500,000-plus members in more than 150 cities across six continents. Among the technology solutions in these rooms is a stockpile of roughly 10,000 wireless IP-based Konftel 300Wx conference phones.

“Globally, we have more than 16,000 conference rooms,” said Nick Nienaber, head of audiovisual at WeWork. “For those rooms where we offer members communication technology, we ended up having pretty specific needs, and Konftel has been an incredible partner in providing the right solution.”

[The Technology Manager's Guide to Collaboration in the Post-COVID World]

Locations are managed by local staff, who need to ensure the available technology is ready and operational each time a WeWork member wants to use a space. In the beginning, the company had a small team dedicated to deploying and supporting technology, which made offering communication devices a challenge.

Early attempts to offer other companies’ conference phones in WeWork’s coworking facilities hit various snags. Some members would unplug them from the wall to access power for other use, or they’d disconnect the network cable. Depending on the size of the room, others just wanted to move the phones around freely.

“The members were decommissioning the devices for the next member who might want to use that conference room,” said Ofir Hirak, director of technology for WeWork. “This presented a big IT hurdle.”

Eventually, Hirak previewed a new conferencing solution from Konftel, the 300Wx. The wireless conference phone includes a charging cradle and a SIP-compliant Konftel IP DECT base station for enabling cordless communication from the conference phone to the physical IP network. The DECT standard (Digital Enhanced Cordless Telecommunications) is used widely around the world and doesn’t interfere with other wireless technologies in common use, such as Wi-Fi and Bluetooth. This was important to WeWork because it employs a global technology standard across the vast majority of its more than 800 locations.

Early on, it was clear that not every WeWork conference room required a conferencing phone. Usage data from its VoIP providers helped the technology team identify how many rooms needed to offer communication capabilities and therefore how many 300Wx solutions Konftel would deliver.

“All told, WeWork has been the biggest end user project in North America we’ve collaborated on,” said Tommy Edlund, Konftel director of global sales. “WeWork adopted the Konftel 300Wx across its conference rooms based on its design, wireless capabilities, performance, and ease of use.”

Each Konftel solution incorporates the company’s patented OmniSound technology and support for wireless HD calls, resulting in natural-sounding communication. The Konftel 300Wx can support meetings of up to 20 people, and the wireless conference phones last up to 60 hours per charge (270 hours in standby), a huge benefit for the WeWork staff who need to make sure the phones are ready each time a conference room is in use. In each WeWork conference room, the Konftel 300Wx phone and charger are set out for members’ use, while the Konftel IP DECT sits in a box behind the room’s display along with other AV equipment.

“Rooms can be serviced and managed individually, so you don't have to worry about one rack of devices or chargers, which was really good for us,” Nienaber said.

The 60-hour battery life helps, especially when members forget to put the Konftel conference phones back with their chargers. “We don’t keep the phones and chargers centralized and don’t always have somebody doing sweeps to make sure they’re charged at the end of every day, so the phones sometimes get left on the table,” Nienaber said.

WeWork continues to work with Konftel, not only in support of its existing conferencing technology, but also as it looks to the future. For example, according to Hirak, when WeWork wanted to disable a feature of the Konftel phones that could allow members to record calls, Konftel engineers quickly developed a firmware update. When WeWork explored new VoIP providers in certain markets, Konftel engineers helped with that firmware change, too. And because the Konftel 300Wx is upgradable via SD memory card, WeWork staff could easily administer the software changes.

“We were able to mail SD cards to the sites and community managers were able to pop them in, push a couple of buttons, and the phones were up and running on a new VoIP platform in a couple of minutes,” Hirak said.

Looking ahead, WeWork is exploring ways to offer more video conferencing capabilities to its members. The challenges are less technical—Konftel solutions, including cameras, already support the breadth of popular video collaboration platforms—than logistic. Not only must a WeWork conference room solution support all the video platforms members might prefer, but it must also be able to seamlessly change from Google Hangouts for one meeting to Zoom for another, for instance, as members take turns using the WeWork space.

“WeWork’s conferencing needs are pretty unique, especially when it comes to eventually implementing video,” Nienaber said. “Konftel has been proactive about showing us new things. We’re very much on the same wavelength when it comes to what is important to our members.”

The What: Yamaha Unified Communications is adding a new model to its Enterprise Sound Bar lineup, the ESB-1090. The ESB-1090 features three modes, allowing users to opt between Conference, Education, and Hotel.

The What Else: Delivering an immersive audio experience, Yamaha's ESB-1090 features two subwoofers, two midrange speakers, and two tweeters. Well suited for classrooms, meeting rooms, and hospitality spaces, it connects to any sound source—display, PC or mobile device—via HDMI, Bluetooth, or even optical cable and analog audio. 

[Yamaha UC Now Shipping ADECIA Ceiling Solution]

The unit simplifies setup through the three application modes to achieve the suitable sound quality and configuration. Users swap between Conference Mode for remote conference purposes, Education Mode for classroom settings, and Hotel Mode for lobby or room playback with the included remote. 

There is also an operation restriction preset to prevent unwanted tampering or changes. It can also be configured for Ethernet operation. Like the ESB-1080, the ESB-1090’s slim design naturally blends into any environment and offers installation versatility. Installers can either wall mount the unit or place it flat on a table or school AV cart.

With the ESB-1090, users don’t have to gather close to the screen in order to clearly hear a video, presentation or conference call. In addition, it can connect to the in-room TV, PC, laptop or mobile device, answering the variety of audio requirements that are present in a single environment.

The Bottom Line: The ESB-1090 is designed to solve common challenges and limitations in sound output for remote conferencing, classrooms, hotel guest rooms, lobbies or meeting rooms.

The What: tvONE has announced a new partnership with global technology manufacturer Bosch. The collaboration focuses on the combination of the tvONE CORIOmatrix modular video switching router and Bosch’s range of conferencing systems.

The What Else: Using tvONE’s 4K CORIOmatrix router—which enables the mixing of AV, broadcast, IP, and legacy sources with low latency—with Bosch’s conference solutions facilitates streaming of the active speaker video to a hall display or system that records or webcasts the HD-SDI feed.

[Bosch Announces Dicentis Discussion Devices]

The Bosch conference systems connect to the tvONE video switcher via TCP/IP and control the switcher by using the protocol of tvONE to switch the video stream of the person speaking automatically to displays or video walls.

The CORIOmatrix (4RU) and CORIOmatrix mini (1RU) can accept a large number of I/O configurations allowing complex functionality to be configured to meet end user requirements. It is well suited for applications where SDI is used in conjunction with 4K HDMI, DVI, and H.264/H.265 IP feeds.

[tvONE Updates CORIOmaster2 Video Processor]

tvONE’s CORIOmatrix supports a variety of Bosch’s conference solutions: the IP-based DICENTIS Conference System, the Wi-Fi-based DICENTIS Wireless Conference System, and the compact, simple to set-up and use CCS 1000 D Digital Discussion System.

The Bottom Line: tvONE foresees a host of conference applications that will benefit from using the systems in tandem, including events in parliaments, commercial buildings, banking, convention centers, hotels, and many others.

With the aim of expanding its conferencing solutions to a wider market, Shure is repositioning its offerings into two product lines: the Microflex Ecosystem to cover high-end, custom install needs, and the Stem Ecosystem to service more basic applications for end users. The realignment represents the next step following Shure’s acquisition of Stem Audio in 2020.

“Two players in the conferencing audio market joined forces to provide a wider variety of networked audio choices for customers,” said Nuna Becic, senior global marketing manager at Shure. “Shure is going to be able to further expand and diversify solution offerings for organizations of all sizes, and Stem Audio is going to be able to leverage that robust global infrastructure and support capabilities that we provide from a global audience standpoint.”

[ Shure Acquires Stem Audio to Expand Its Portfolio of Conferencing Audio Products ]

According to Becic, the two ecosystems will cover nearly any organization’s conferencing needs. “Microflex is more for those complex, specific, niche needs, where Stem is a simpler, more cost-effective solution for IT end users to scale very quickly to rooms,” she said.

Stem Ecosystem

The Stem Ecosystem consists of the following products, which can be purchased directly by end customers:

• Stem Wall: A soundbar equipped with 15 microphones that perform beamforming, plus full-range speakers and subwoofers
• Stem Table: A tabletop speakerphone equipped with nine microphones with beamforming and a downward-facing speaker
• Stem Ceiling: A 100-microphone ceiling array with two mounting options (low profile or chandelier mode) and three-beam options
• Stem Speaker: A PoE+ powered external speaker with three mounting options
• Stem Hub: A control hub that allows multiple Stem units in a room to communicate with one another, featuring USB Type B, Ethernet, Dante, VoIP connectivity, and pluggable terminal blocks for external speakers
• Stem Control: A dedicated touch controller that connects to the network with a single Ethernet connection, and allows access to the Stem Ecosystem platform and remote management of an organization, or can be used as an in-meeting controller with video conferencing platforms.

“Stem is an ecosystem of audio components designed for conference rooms—tabletop devices, wall-mounted devices, a ceiling microphone—that can be easily mixed and matched, all connected through the network, so that any user can customize a room,” said Jonathan Boaz, director of sales and marketing at Shure. “This is something that anyone from an AV integrator to an IT professional can install and easily set up on their own.” 

[ Shure Conferencing Audio Ecosystem Review ]

Microflex Ecosystem

Microflex Ecosystem products include:

• Microphones: Microflex Advance MXA910 Ceiling Array, MXA310 Table Array, and MXA710 Linear Array Microphones, and Microflex Wireless (MXW) Systems 
• Loudspeaker: Microflex MXN5-C Networked Ceiling Loudspeaker
• DSP: IntelliMix P300 Audio Conferencing Processor and IntelliMix Room Audio Processing Software
• Software: Designer System Configuration Software and SystemOn Audio Asset Management Software
• Accessories: MXA Network Mute Button and Audio Network Interfaces

“The Shure portfolio now addresses any room that’s out there,” Boaz said. “Microflex can do really anything—anything from voice lift, to zoning of speakers. In addition to that, with the Stem Ecosystem as part of the offering, even the simple, straightforward rooms that are needed—a quick Zoom Room, for example—can be addressed with a single solution or by mixing and matching multiple devices. 

“Anything from the huddle room to the most complex, high-end room, with both offerings, Shure has a solution for any room.”

Launched at ISE 2020, the Bose Videobar VB1 is one of the latest introductions to the growing market for all-in-one communications solutions for small to medium conferencing spaces. Pairing a variety of new technologies with an audio experience one should expect from Bose, the bar has a sleek and modern look that will blend well with any conference room, executive meeting space, or huddle room.

Setup

Right out of the box, the product requires minimal effort to get up and running. Although I did not permanently mount it, the physical installation seems quick and easy. Mounting and cable pathways at the rear of the unit are well placed, allowing for proper cable management and a clean installation. Unlike other products from competitors, the VB1 simplifies the experience with the use of a single cable and connection to the computer. Several other products require both HDMI in and USB, whereas the VB1 utilizes a single USB-C cable. 

The connection is versatile and easily worked with several platforms I tested including Zoom, Teams, and Google. The software for setup is intuitive and easy to understand, while still offering all the options for configuration and remote management. My favorite tool was the downloadable app. I was able to quickly and easily adjust the volume, control the camera (pan/tilt/zoom), and even recall camera presets. The advanced setup and configuration options are vast yet intuitive, which is great to see.

[ Review: Shure Conferencing Audio Ecosystem Review]

Trying it Out

The camera provides a nice field of view and 4K image to clearly capture the room and individuals within. (However, it is unfortunate that most soft conferencing platforms are currently unable to take advantage of the full resolution.) Participants on the far end were able to clearly see the room, whether it had one or several participants. The camera includes auto-framing capability that can be toggled on and off via the remote or app. The framing worked well—better than some software-generated auto-framers—and the ability to easily turn this feature on and off as desired is appealing. Many other cameras I have seen require complex logins or software downloads in order to disable this functionality, if you can even turn if off at all.

The VB1’s audio is top notch. The far end was also able to clearly hear the participants in the space. Whether the room had one or several people, the beam steering technology with six microphone elements allowed for great noise rejection. The one feature everyone expects to be the best from Bose, the speakers, did not disappoint. The speakers performed well during a call, with a connected 3.5 audio cable, for a video presentation, and even streaming audio straight from the Bluetooth connection via my mobile device.

[ Review: ClearOne BMA 360 Review]

Impressions

Perhaps the VB1’s biggest downside also happens to be one of its strengths. Since it uses a singular USB-C 3.1 cable, the cable length from host to device is limited. Although it comes with a fairly long cable and a list of tested USB extenders is available on the website, like most USB devices, the extension may be somewhat limiting. I also wish the unit would charge a laptop directly connected to the unit. CEC control of the display would also benefit many users, and I have a suspicion this may be available in a future update.

Overall, the Bose Videobar VB1 is a premium conferencing device that will work reliably in just about any small- to medium-sized conferencing space. Its excellent audio quality will enhance the user experience of all within the room and for those on the far end of any video call. A product that is easier to use than most, the VB1 brings the quality Bose is known for with a wide variety of features desired by all to the conference room.

Jeremy Caldera, CTS-D, CTS-I is senior vice president at Pearl Technology, a leader in AV and IT services based in Peoria, IL. He sits on the academic advisory board for the Audio Arts & Acoustics Department of Columbia College Chicago, is the former AVIXA CTS certification program chair, and is a recent inductee to the SCN 2021 AV Hall of Fame.

The What: EPOS has launched the ADAPT 200 Series, a headset designed to accommodate the shifting requirements of working professionals. The wireless successor to the ADAPT 100, the ADAPT 200 series is certified for Microsoft Teams and provides versatility, flexibility, and high audio quality.

The What Else: The ADAPT 200 features a noise cancelling microphone for enhanced concentration, removing unnecessary ambient noise and augmenting the conversation experience with EPOS Voice technology. Optimized for collaboration across multiple devices, users can connect with either a USB A or USB C dongle for an empowering wireless experience with colleagues and business partners, regardless of the location.

[EPOS Debuts Intelligent Speaker for Microsoft Teams Rooms]

Comfort and convenience have been prioritized in the design of the ADAPT 200 Series, to meet the demands of professionals on the go. Soft, thick ear pads provide all day comfort and passive noise damping, while a discreet foldable boom arm allows for a seamless transition between calls and other tasks, at work or on the commute. 

“The shifting needs of our customers are at the heart of our team’s design process, and the hybrid work model certainly shows no sign of waning,” said Theis Moerk, vice president of product management at EPOS. “This calls for lightweight, flexible solutions that can seamlessly integrate into working life, and enhance all aspects of collaboration, regardless of the setting. We’re excited to launch the new generation of the ADAPT Series—the need for high quality, versatile audio devices has never been so great.”

The Bottom Line: The ADAPT 200 Series has been developed to meet the requirements of a flexible workforce whose audio devices need to reflect and enhance their shifting work environments. Engineered with a focus on versatility, the four ADAPT 200 variants are well suited for use across office, home, remote, and travel environments due to their lightweight and comfortable wearing style and personalized, adjustable fit.

The What: Biamp has announced that Zoom Video Communications has certified two conference room audio bundles, giving customers a complete audio solution in medium and large Zoom Rooms. Each bundle includes Parlé Beamtracking microphones for the ceiling, along with all the audio equipment needed to build a professional-quality Zoom Rooms conferencing experience with zero cable termination.

The What Else: Two bundles are available for medium and large Zoom Rooms, which each include a TesiraFORTE VT4 signal processor, TesiraCONNECT expander, Tesira EX-UBT USB extender, and the appropriate quantity of Parlé ceiling microphones and Desono C-IC6 loudspeakers for the room size. They also leverage Biamp's PoE-powered amplifiers with Burst Mode technology and include all the necessary mounting accessories and category cabling to complete the installation.

[New Biamp AV Solutions Support Hybrid Learning]

Parlé microphones use Beamtracking technology to create dynamic virtual microphones, which track and intelligently mix conversations from around the room to enable an audio experience designed to make remote participants feel just as physically present as those in the room.

"Biamp's new certified Zoom Rooms bundles let users enjoy the extraordinary audio quality Biamp is known for with full confidence that they will integrate simply and seamlessly with the Zoom platform," said Joe Andrulis, executive vice president of corporate development, Biamp. "These complete solutions make it extraordinarily simple for organizations to select, purchase, and install technology that results in crystal-clear communications—even in large and challenging meeting spaces."

"Biamp technology helps make our customers' conversations crisp and clear, even in a broad range of complex or customized spaces," said Ty Buell, PSO Solutions Architect, Zoom. "The certified Zoom Rooms bundles from Biamp offer our customers a complete audio ecosystem and a much simpler path to enjoying high-quality audio experiences, with easy installation and the full confidence that they will integrate seamlessly and reliably into their Zoom Rooms environment."

The Bottom Line: The new certified Zoom Rooms bundles offer customers the advantages of a complete Biamp solution that extend beyond audio quality. Installers benefit from streamlined deployment and configuration made possible by the integration of each component, automated EQ, as well as minimal cable requirements with zero termination, zero network setup, and more. The solutions include a room deployment tool, eliminating the need for integrators to open up the Tesira software platform, and resulting in significant time savings on Zoom Rooms projects, according to the company.

The What: Shure’s recently launched MXA710 Linear Array Microphone is now Certified for Microsoft Teams, joining the company’s portfolio of conferencing solutions already certified for the conferencing standard. 

The What Else: The MXA710’s Steerable Coverage technology captures audio anywhere in the room, featuring four lobes with the 2-foot array, and eight lobes with 4-foot array. With onboard IntelliMix DSP, the MXA710 provides Automatic Mixing, Acoustic Echo Cancellation, Noise Reduction, and Automatic Gain Control, providing all the processing to help ensure echo and noise-free audio, giving end users a high-quality, unifying AV conference experience. Autofocus Technology fine-tunes each lobe position in real-time, adjusting for meeting participant movements.

[Product Review: Shure Conferencing Audio Ecosystem]

Using Designer System Configuration software for deployment, room coverage templates enable quick and easy lobe optimization specifically for wall, ceiling, or table installations.

Available in 2-foot (60cm) or 4-foot (120cm) lengths and three colors (white, black, and aluminum), the MXA710 is compatible with both Dante and AES67 audio networking protocols. It is PoE-powered and features LED status bars at each end of the array with configurable colors and brightness. The smaller form factor is well suited for smaller meeting spaces up to seven to eight people that are being equipped with videoconferencing to provide greater virtual meeting capability. The larger form factor supports large meeting rooms that seat up to around 18 people. Multiple MXA710 units can be used to provide coverage for even larger spaces.

“Shure's solutions are built for the hybrid workplace,” said Paul Gunia, director of technology partnerships at Shure. “Your customers, clients, and students will feel like they’re in the room with you when you use our market-leading array microphones. Our entire lineup of Microflex Advance array microphones is now Microsoft Teams Certified.”

“Microsoft Teams Certification requires products to meet the most stringent audio quality standards in the AV industry,” said Albert Kooiman, senior director of Microsoft Teams Devices Partner Engineering and Certification. “Shure’s MXA710 provides customers with a high-quality audio experience for superior audio performance during conferencing sessions in an easy-to-install yet out-of-the-way form factor.”

The Bottom Line: The MXA710 is designed for high-quality audio capture in AV conferencing environments. The low-profile form factor of the MXA710 is designed to blend into any meeting room without sacrificing audio quality.

The What: Audio-Technica has introduced four new condenser boundary microphones: the ES945O/FM3 omnidirectional, ES947C/FM3 cardioid, ES945O/FM5 omnidirectional, and ES947C/FM5 cardioid condenser boundary microphone.

[The Technology Manager's Guide to Audio in the New Era of UC]

The What Else: The omnidirectional ES945O/FM3 and cardioid ES947C/FM3 feature a three-pin XLR output connector. Designed for intelligible conferencing, recording, monitoring, and other demanding sound pickup applications, the ES945O/FM3 and ES947C/FM3 mount unobtrusively in tabletops or panels, but include a highly visible two-state RGB LED ring (seven selectable colors + OFF) to indicate mute status. The microphones’ polar patterns provide 360-degree (ES945O/FM3) and 120-degree (ES947C/FM3) coverage, respectively. A rugged all-metal case with a two-layer steel mesh grille protects the microphone element, while A-T’s proprietary UniGuard RFI-shielding technology provides rejection of radio frequency interference (RFI). Both mics are equipped with a self-contained power module, eliminating the need for an external one, and come with a pair of rubber isolators for mechanical isolation from the mounting surface. 

The omnidirectional ES945O/FM5 and cardioid ES947C/FM5 have a similar feature set to the FM3 models but offer remote muting and control, as well as a five-pin XLR output connector. Additionally, with the FM5 models, not only can the switch be configured for remote muting and/or external contact closure, but it can also be set up to trigger an external device, such as a camera or the room’s lighting. 

The Bottom Line: These mics feature a capacitive-type user switch that enables muting of the microphone, making them especially well suited for conferencing applications. The FM3 models replace the existing ES945/LED and ES947/LED and feature local muting, while the FM5 models represent an entirely new product for Audio-Technica with an advanced feature set offering remote muting and control.  

University of Virginia's Biocomplexity Institute, a research organization specializing in bioinformatics, computational biology, and systems biology, is delivering higher quality lectures, meetings, and research presentations thanks to the addition of conferencing solutions from Yamaha UC. After experiencing poor audio and control system integration challenges with off-the-shelf consumer-grade conferencing equipment, integration firm Horizon AVL selected Yamaha's proven CS-700 Video Sound Bar and Yamaha YVC-1000 Microphone and Speaker System.

"Audio sets the tone for remote collaboration,” said Michael Fitch, vice president of sales and marketing at Yamaha UC. “If those on the far end can't hear you or if the product is hard to use, it's really challenging to create a high-caliber experience for anyone. The installation at the Biocomplexity Institute is a great example of how organizations can deliver better, more productive meetings and classes with easy-to-use conferencing tools built for intelligible, natural conversation."

[The Technology Manager's Guide to Audio in the New Era of UC]

For the huddle rooms, the Yamaha CS-700 not only resolved the poor audio issues that the Biocomplexity Institute experienced, but also the lack of interoperability with the Crestron control systems installed in the rooms. The all-in-one Zoom-certified Video soundbar combines an adaptive beamforming microphone array for clear conversation; four Yamaha speaker elements to provide audio intelligibility; and a wide-angle HD camera that captures participants and the room in clear detail for students and other participants on the far end. The solution eliminates the inherent inefficiencies of touching and operating disparate video and audio equipment during calls and the eye sore of cables snaked around the room.

The CS-700 features an open API for integration with Crestron and other commercial-grade room controllers. Users can control CS-700's control volume, mute, and camera's zoom, pan, tilt, and input functions directly from the control system, creating a simple conferencing experience. Staff can launch Zoom in seconds, with all the controls they need right at their fingertips.

Inside the institute's medium and large conference rooms, Horizon AVL installed Yamaha YVC-1000 Microphone and Speaker System integrated with Huddly cameras. The Zoom-certified Yamaha YVC-1000 is well suited both remote learning and high-level conference calls. It features separate intelligent microphones and a full-range speaker unit that can be placed close to a display for naturally blended audio and video to enable full far-end comprehension. Yamaha's adaptive echo cancellation and human voice activity detection (HVAD) sound processing technologies developed over the years minimize background noise and help facilitate a stress-free, fluid conversation.

The What: Maxhub has introduced the new UC W21 Business Webcam featuring a 120-degree DFoV (Display Field of View), 4K resolution, and a two-element omnidirectional microphone array.

The What Else: The camera features layered optical glass for better smoothness and clarity along with 2D and 3D DNR (Digital Noise Reduction) for effective video experiences. Employing a Sony image sensor that yields HDR (High Dynamic Range) performance for brighter highlights and a wider range of color image detail, the UC W21's 4K wide-angle video performance provides impressive meeting visuals. From low light to bright backlights, the UC W21's integrated HDR technology constantly adjusts to ensure everyone looks their best.

[The Technology Manager's Guide to Collaboration in the Post-COVID World]

The camera's advanced AI technologies include face detection to automatically adjust to the best framing solutions according to both the number of meeting participants and their location. Real-time close-up presentation and manual options enable auto focus to be tailored to suit a wide variety of needs. 

Another notable aspect of the Maxhub UC W21 is its 360-degree horizontal rotation capability. The UC W21 can be adjusted 10 degrees to the back, 10 degrees to the front, 10 degrees to the left and 10 degrees to the right. The system's 120-degree DFoV, combined with 360-degree horizontal rotation, provides complete control over where the camera focuses.

The Maxhub UC W21's microphone array features an integrated noise-cancellation algorithm that detects audio up to 13 feet away and filters out background noise to keep the focus where it needs to be.

The Bottom Line: The UC W21 is designed for a wide range of business meetings and its single USB-C connection eliminates the need to install plug-ins. The UC W21 enables people to easily work with the conferencing software they are most comfortable with.

The What: Crestron has announced Crestron Flex Phones, a new portfolio of Microsoft Teams-certified desk phones for organizations seeking a dedicated collaboration experience for their employees. 

[The Integration Guide to Conferencing & Collaboration]

The What Else: The Crestron Flex Phones lineup features one-touch Teams accessibility to offer quick meeting experiences so users can access any meeting, share notes, and collaborate directly from the dedicated Crestron Flex device. By handling all audio, video, and content sharing, the Crestron Flex Phones frees other devices, like a laptop or PC, to be used as productivity tools during a meeting, fostering a collaboration experience that is more fruitful and less frustrating. This minimizes inefficient task switching, streamlines ad hoc communication, and allows users to segment their schedule and workload more effectively. 

Crestron Flex Phones feature oversized touchscreen displays (8- and 10-inch HD options) and omnidirectional microphone array with 360-degree audio pickup, and come in video-enabled versions with 1080p camera or audio-only options. Built-in support for Teams allows users to simply plug the device into a PoE cable, sign in, and get started. Technology managers can scale deployment and management with integrated cloud management and monitoring with Crestron XiO Cloud Service, and embedded occupancy sensors supporting a range of 6.5 feet allow for the capture of meeting-space data and usage analytics.

“With videoconferencing cementing itself as a critical piece of the modern workplace, it’s less practical to task a laptop or a smartphone with hosting video, audio, and call-related content at the same time, especially if a user wants to use that device for note-taking or accessing files,” said Ranjan Singh, EVP, products and technology, Crestron. “In creating Crestron Flex Phones, we’re giving users their other devices back because they will now have a dedicated option to join a Teams call from or transfer a meeting to a second device. Crestron Flex Phones let users seamlessly conference from one device and share content from another—an approach adopted by many workers in today’s hybrid environments.”

The Bottom Line: Crestron Flex Phones combine high-quality audio and videoconferencing capabilities with one-touch connectivity and enterprise-grade security, as well as additional features to help users maximize productivity. They are designed to be deployed in a home or office, at a rotating “hot desk” stations popular in hybrid workplaces, or in conference rooms.

The What: Jabra has unveiled its new PanaCast camera lineup for insight-driven collaboration in the hybrid world: the Jabra PanaCast 50 all-in-one video bar and the Jabra PanaCast 20 personal camera.

The What Else: Jabra PanaCast 50 offers a plug-and-play solution to deliver an advanced immersive and engaging video experience. The PanaCast 50 effectively takes on the role of the "director" of a meeting, intelligently adjusting the video stream to follow the action. This allows Jabra PanaCast 50 to detect active speakers and the flow of conversation for a fully immersive and responsive remote meeting experience. Three 13-megapixel cameras mounted in a multi-camera array create an immersive 180-degree field of view in panoramic 4K that covers the whole room.

[Product Review: Jabra PanaCast]

Jabra PanaCast 50 features nine edge processors, including two state-of-the art edge AI processors, specifically engineered for audio and video. This system architecture enables the video bar to carry out real-time integration of audio, video, and data. The PanaCast 50 also features eight beamforming microphones with precision voice detection backed up with algorithms that remove disruptive noise. Four Jabra-engineered speakers—two 50mm woofers and two 20mm tweeters—in a zero-vibration stereo setup fill the room with clear audio, while the latest two-way audio technology delivers more natural conversations.

[The Technology Manager's Guide to Collaboration in the Post-COVID World]

With the Jabra PanaCast 20, flexible workers can benefit from high-quality, secure video collaboration in a compact, portable, and easy-to-use package. The device features AI managed on-device with edge processing, with advanced experiences generated directly on the device without extra data being sent to the cloud for processing, or the need to install additional software.

The PanaCast 20 delivers 4K Ultra HD Video, HDR video, as well as personalized intelligent zoom, which frames the main user properly, regardless of their environment. It also features automatic lighting correction.

“Extraordinary times call for extraordinary solutions and we believe the new Jabra PanaCast 50 and PanaCast 20 deliver just that," said Aurangzeb Khan, senior vice president of intelligent vision systems at Jabra. "We are happy to present the PanaCast 50, the first video bar to combine world-leading Jabra audio with our unique 180-degree field of view and unique room usage insights, for inclusive, collaborative meetings in the new normal. The time is now to start thinking about future-proofing offices, creating optimal collaboration circumstances for flexible hybrid workers and to ensure maximum productivity as your teams return. We invite businesses, organizations and institutions all around the world to experience audio and video like never before with the Jabra PanaCast intelligent devices.”

The Bottom Line: The Jabra PanaCast range has been engineered to help businesses navigate the new flexible, hybrid way of working by combining immersive vision and video, advanced audio technologies, and cutting-edge artificial intelligence to enhance meetings and collaboration. Both devices are certified for Microsoft Teams, Zoom, and all leading UC platforms.

The Jabra PanaCast 50 will be available beginning June 15, 2021; the PanaCast 20 will be available beginning August 1, 2021.

The What: Anker Innovations has launched two new products under the AnkerWork product line: the PowerConf C300 smart AI-enabled HD webcam and the PowerConf S500 Portable Conference Speaker. 

The What Else: The PowerConf C300 is AnkerWork’s first 1080p webcam with a built-in AI chipset that provides a high-quality image with accurate color reproduction and advanced low-light performance. With three field-of-view choices—78 degrees for close-ups, 90 degrees for a mid-view, or 115 degrees for the widest field of view—users can customize the experience that meets their needs, whether showing something on a whiteboard or keeping pets and family out of frame. 

[The Technology Manager's Guide to Collaboration in the Post-COVID World]

The C300’s A.I. also offers smart framing that helps keep an individual or group members centered on screen, though it will only reframe a subject’s deliberate movements, so they can take a sip of water off camera, without shifting focus. Dual stereo microphones also ensure great sounding audio. 

The PowerConf S500 builds on the success of the original PowerConf products, adding four upgraded microphones featuring Anker’s new proprietary VoiceRadar technology. VoiceRadar uses beamforming and enhanced Digital Signal Processors (DSPs) to pick up the voice of the person speaking while ignoring surrounding noises to ensure a great sounding experience for all parties.

The S500 can be used with the AnkerWork app (on Android and iOS), which lets users choose one of three pickup patterns for different use case scenarios. These include traditional conference room environments with multiple people, a single person presenting to others, as well as using the S500 as a microphone for live streaming. 

“For many, working from home has been a dream come true, but it also brings its own unique challenges: distracting pets, family, poor lighting, as well as power and cable management issues, to name a few,” said Steven Yang, founder and CEO of Anker Innovations. “AnkerWork products have been designed to help address many of these issues, while providing solutions that are portable and can be easily used in the home, the office and on the road.” 

The Bottom Line: The first products launched under Anker's new AnkerWork brand, the PowerConf C300 and PowerConf S500 are designed to help guide businesses of all sizes through the process of adapting their workflows to fit the hybrid models of today and spearheading the future of work.

The What: Yamaha Unified Communications has added the RM-TT wired tabletop array microphone as a new option to ADECIA, a complete family of communications solutions for meetings and learning spaces. 

The What Else: The ADECIA tabletop solution, like the ADECIA Ceiling System, integrates the RM-CR remote conference processor, VXL1-16P Dante/PoE-compatible line array speaker, and SWR2311P-10G Yamaha's PoE network switch.

Related: The Technology Manager's Guide to Audio in the New Era of UC

Included within the ADECIA solution family, the new offering features the same setup and auto configuration features available through the RM-CR audio processor. Installation of the wired tabletop microphones is done through a LAN cable to the PoE switch. Up to eight microphone pods (four microphones per pod) can be added for scalability. 

When the RM-CR processor and RM-TT tabletop microphones are combined, the voice tracking function automatically selects the microphone closest to the person speaking for optimal voice capture. For example, a meeting participant who is moving from the conference table to a whiteboard or interactive display in the room can ensure that their voice will be captured and delivered to the far end. In a classroom, the microphones can be set up around the room to capture every student as well as the teacher who may be presenting lessons from different areas or checking on individual progress or questions. The technology also allows installers to dictate each microphone pod's directional mode for customized room capture. Available mic options include unidirectional, super-cardioid, hyper-cardioid, omnidirectional, bidirectional, or toroidal.

The complete solution automatically detects all components of the system and configures them to be optimized for the room environment, accounting for the location of speakers and microphones, reverberation, and echo behavior. Setting up a room is done through the system's configurator in four steps. 

"With the hybrid style of working and learning now becoming commonplace, high-quality conferencing systems are more vital than ever to ensure a seamless and engaging communication experience," said Michael Fitch, vice president of sales and marketing at Yamaha UC. "With the additional option of Yamaha's RM-TT tabletop microphone, users have more flexibility to customize ADECIA to their use case."

The Bottom Line: The RM-TT features all of Yamaha's sound technologies, including automatic voice tracking, auto gain control, adaptive echo cancellation, noise reduction, and reverberation suppression in a low-profile form factor. With USB, Bluetooth, Dante, and analog connections, the system is well suited for a variety of enterprise or meeting spaces and classrooms.

The ADECIA tabletop model, including RM-TT, will be available in summer 2021. The ADECIA ceiling solution is now shipping.

The What: TEKVOX says it is raising the bar for distance engagement in both the educational and corporate markets with its new 1201-MV Universal Switcher. The latest in TEKVOX’s line of switchers delivers Bring-Your-Own-Device (BYOD) video conferencing by eliminating the need for a conventional in-room PC to drive the conference’s technical components.

The What Else: The 1201-MV switcher features a two-way USB hub at the far end, which allows any connected laptop to host meetings from the conference room using the installed technology. This capability is designed to do away with the need for a dedicated conferencing PC, and removes the security risks and overall annoyance associated with the old use model, according to the company.

“Laptops today are powerful, and a lot of video conference participants would really prefer to present from them,” said TEKVOX CEO Jim Reinhart. “But they’d have to connect the laptop to the eyes and ears—cameras, mics, speakers—of the conference room and play out the content. Before, that meant running a lot of cables to the conference table or using a separate PC. Now, they can use the 1201-MV and its built-in USB 3.0 hub to gain immediate access to far-end USB mics and cameras. The full infrastructure of a modern conference room has become plug-and-play.”

The 1201-MV utilizes 6-Play HDBase-T to transport 4K video, digital audio, PoC, RS232, LAN, and USB over a single cable. It also includes a native USB-C input with up to 60W of power charging for a tablet or laptop. It features 12 flexible multiview modes for viewing up to four sources at once without additional hardware.

The Bottom Line: The 1201-MV features auto-switching—a useful function for collaboration and conferencing—and a breakaway HDMI output.

The 1201-MV is available now with an MSRP of $2,998. TEKVOX says the switcher is shipped fully functional, pre-programmed, and rigorously tested.

The ripple effects of COVID-19 are hard to predict, but there is no doubt that the pandemic will dramatically alter workplace culture. One in four Americans will be working remotely in 2021, according to an Upwork survey. Does this figure signal a bleak outlook for corporate AV professionals? Quite the opposite, according to Nyere Hollingsworth, group leader for unified communications and collaboration services with the MITRE Corporation. With a perspective shaped by his high-level technology experience, Hollingsworth sees change as inevitable, and with it are tremendous opportunities to reimagine AV in the enterprise.

Related: The Technology Manager's Guide to Collaboration in the Post-COVID World

Hollingsworth rejects the notion that AV innovation will suffer as flex working becomes the norm. The post-COVID era might just be the most exciting time to be in AV, he says.

8,000 Strong

Hollingsworth’s extensive background managing pro AV and UCC technologies—from Zoom rollouts to traditional AV deployments—gives him a nuanced view of corporate technology. His team is responsible for making sure MITRE’s 8,000-plus employees “can see and hear each other, no matter where they are, or what they are working on,” he said. 

From an all-hands meeting in an auditorium, to upgrading Teams and Zoom for distributed teams working across the country during the pandemic, Hollingsworth’s team keeps the show running. Whatever tools are needed for productivity—making informed decisions, presenting, and collaborating across MITRE’s many touchpoints in industry and academia—Hollingsworth’s team has them covered.

“We buy all of the major pro AV components on practically a daily basis,” he said. “We manage media streaming in the conference room and provide auditorium support with a high level of service.” His team also interfaces with the company’s telephony infrastructure which has migrated to softphones.

AV Versus IT: It’s Not a Debate

With the broad range of collaboration tools in his purview, Hollingsworth actually finds the AV-versus-IT debate amusing. “It’s all essential technology,” he said. From installed AV to software-based telephony, “I've never known AV and IT to be separate. They are not separate in most use cases.”

When Hollingsworth started his career as a technologist, he gained valuable experience with Tandberg videoconferencing systems. He was focused on getting the in-room AV working, but also making sure that he could seamlessly move audio and video content to foreign destinations. Every space needed consistently precise levels of AV intelligibility and fidelity. “As a function of that,” he explained, “you have to learn elements of networking and telephony, as it all influences end-user communications.”

The future of flex work, with greater emphasis on hybrid spaces, will require even more networking and software acumen. 

AV Has Never Been More Important

Some people might be self-conscious about AV’s role in the evolving corporate landscape, but Hollingsworth urges audiovisual professionals to proudly claim their places. “We’re all technology professionals,” he said, “just like a systems engineer, just like a help desk person, or a network engineer.”

He views tech stakeholders like a band, with some people playing different instruments. He also believes that the audiovisual contribution will become more crucial as companies pivot, iterate, and forge new pathways for growth.

Where AV diverges from other disciplines is an asset, not a vulnerability. Audiovisual professionals have the rare opportunity to interface with every employee in a company, from the intern that just started, to the CEO. “It's important to keep that perspective, to appreciate the value that AV specialists bring to the table,” Hollingsworth said. “We fundamentally enhance human physiology. To that end, giving someone the ability to communicate across distances is a powerful capability that should not be ignored.”

Since audiovisual and UCC technologies are so versatile and all-encompassing, Hollingsworth views AV pros as “some of the most well-rounded individuals in an organization.”

Translate AV’s Value, Use Storytelling 

Hollingsworth stressed the importance of advocating for AV as workplace culture evolves. “There are so many opportunities to be creative and innovative in leveraging technology right now,” he said. “If you can explain high-quality solutions to the people who are responsible for budgets and investing in those solutions, they will continue to seek your advice. They will continue to allow you to utilize technology to make their organizations better.”

Outlook after COVID 

There’s no denying that “the office” will continue to change. “We will be working a little bit differently,” Hollingsworth said, “but not that much differently.” A surprising benefit of the pandemic is that AV is front and center in companies large and small. “Before, we were able to hide in the corner,” he said. “People didn't know what we were doing, or why a conference room system or videoconference worked.”

A realist as well as an optimistic, Hollingsworth knows that some reliable and hallmark AV opportunities are “gone or will go away. I won't be shy about that,” he said. “But I think this new way of working is going to create opportunities that will continue to drive business forward.”

Passionate about growth prospects after COVID, Hollingsworth says to unlock AV’s full potential, “we must enable people to communicate with each other in more immersive and more lifelike ways. Interactions are going to be more remote than they historically have been before. This will be the guiding theme across the US, if not the world, as more and more companies move toward flex work models.”

Fewer Spaces, But Higher Quality

Large companies are rethinking their footprints: downsizing, abandoning, or subleasing spaces. But the workplace is still the place where ideas will be formed, Hollingsworth contends. Marketing, selling, and the distribution of ideas will happen remotely, but the core ideation will remain the provenance of the on-site office.

“The ‘office’ is where face-to-face interactions will be important, so we need to build different kinds of spaces,” he said. “We might not be building as many of them, but the ones that we do build must deliver a quality, lifelike experience, even for hybrid setups [with employees dialing in from remote locations]. It’s challenging and it’s expensive to do in a conference room, but I can foresee companies investing in this kind of technology. They won't do it for 20 rooms, but they may do it for five. And as you net out the cost of doing these new kinds of spaces, I think it's going to be about the same from a budget and pricing perspective.”

Focus on Exceptional Experiences

MITRE is the process of redesigning its corporate spaces. “People will be coming into a conference room, and we cannot have everybody's face be the size of a postage stamp, like a Zoom screen,” Hollingsworth said. “The answer lies in new agile, high-quality camera technologies. “It's going to be different. We're going to be looking for solutions that autofocus and track individual participants.”

Audio is also reasserting its relevance in the hybrid era. MITRE hopes to deploy microphone technologies such as beamforming microphone arrays, which have been “showing their value across smaller spaces where they traditionally haven’t been deployed.” 

Hollingsworth is also looking at new collaboration tools that let teams stitch images together and reorient layouts. The goal: making every experience more immersive. “I'm interested to see where software manufacturers will go, to bring all components together, to make it feel like we're looking at the same canvas, regardless of where we are and how we're engaging with that meeting.”

AV for Sustainable Growth 

Hollingsworth’s mission at MITRE is to keep people connected: “That’s where our technologies and solutions will play into the future success of our organization,” he said. “As long as we can keep people connected sustainably—wherever they are and whatever ‘connected’ means to them—we will have done our job. We will continue to keep our organization growing, hitting benchmarks, and delivering value to our end customers who are looking for our ideas and our services.”

“We're not going backward,” Hollingsworth added. “Some older models are dead. But it’s an exciting time to reimagine how we do all of this, and I'm here for it.”

Margot Douaihy, PhD, teaches at Franklin Pierce University.

As we make our way back into offices and classrooms, one thing is for sure: people won’t be very comfortable touching microphones. Capitalizing on this is ClearOne’s BMA 360 ceiling tile beamforming mic array. Designed to provide uniform gain response across all frequency bands, the solution simplifies audio pickup with precision beamforming, advanced ambient noise rejection, and Voice Lift to enable local participants or the presenter's voice to be heard well not only by the far end, but also in the local room. So, just how well does it perform?

The BMA 360 comes with a built-in amplifier that provides power and can be configured as 4x15 watts or 2x30 watts for driving loudspeakers. Optional accessories for the BMA 360 include a 90-watt PoE power injector kit, brackets that convert 600 to 625mm, and a conduit box. It features Acoustic Echo Cancellation (AEC) that delivers incomparable per-beam full-duplex audio performance and onboard audio algorithms, like noise reduction, filtering, and automatic level control (ALC), which eliminates the need for per-beam processing in a DSP mixer. 

Related: Shure Conferencing Audio Ecosystem Review

I was also issued the Converge 2 pro 48VTD, a multi-channel microphone automixer with built-in support for Dante audio networking, VoIP conferencing, a Telco interface, C-Link, and P-Link to facilitate the addition of DSPs and peripherals. It also features built-in USB audio, four mic/line inputs, and eight mic/line outputs. Further, the device can be arranged to connect up to three ceiling tiles via P-Link, which would be well served in divisible rooms or larger conference setups. It offers the ability to add and configure additional mics like handhelds and lavaliers.

Using ClearOne’s software, CONSOLE AI, I could connect to the Converge 2 either locally by USB or via the network. Using this software, you can configure the BMA and the loudspeakers, and any additional microphones. The software also provides different views of the connection diagram, allowing grouping of similar devices. Furthermore, the software will enable you to select settings and make adjustments for multiple room designs, including circular, square, rectangular, or semi-circular classrooms/conference rooms—providing coverage from small (10 foot by 10 foot) rooms up to extra-large (36 foot by 20 foot) spaces with ceiling heights from 7 to 20 feet. You can also set the number of open microphones (NOM). This function, along with all the other ALC and the noise canceller, provided a fantastic experience in my test environment, a smaller conference room with an AC window unit. During the testing period, I joined multiple virtual meetings, and no one could hear the window unit. When I changed the microphone to the built-in mic on the laptop, the reaction was that a whirlwind had entered the meeting.

Overall, the ClearOne BMA 360 ceiling tile beamforming microphone provided a very natural experience. My voice was captured clearly from any location in the room. I found connecting the loudspeakers to BMA 360 and bridging to the Converge 2 Pro very straightforward. The console AI software-rendered options to configure all the inputs and output devices were intuitive, as was the intelligence for microphone gate grouping and gain controls. I appreciated the built-in auditing feature for checking on changes and ensuring that devices are all connected properly, as well as the capacity for making live adjustments for any last-minute troubleshooting. Additionally, the ClearOne support team provided me with the right resources and materials for training, and was responsive to my questions as they arose. I would highly recommend using this product in any space due to its versatility, range, and the added value to more complex systems. 

Emil Delgado is the director of client services at St. Peter’s University in Jersey City, NJ.

The What: Audio-Technica has announced several new variations of its ES945 Omnidirectional Condenser Boundary Microphone and ES947 Cardioid Condenser Boundary Microphone, developed as a direct response to market feedback. All models are intended for surface flush-mount installation and include Audio-Technica's UniGuard RFI-shielding innovations for unsurpassed immunity from radio frequency interference.  

The What Else: The existing standard ES945 and ES947 models are being replaced and enhanced by the new ES945O/XLR (omnidirectional) and ES947C/XLR (cardioid), which feature upgraded functionality including IPX4 water resistance. The ES945O/XLR and ES947C/XLR come standard in black and are also available in white variations (ES945WO/XLR and ES947WC/XLR).

Related: The Technology Manager's Guide to Audio in the New Era of UC

A-T is also introducing new miniature, space-saving variations, known as ES945O/TB3 and ES947C/TB3. These mics are suitable for the same applications as the ES945O/XLR and ES947C/XLR, but the compact design enables extra-inconspicuous tabletop, ceiling, and wall mounting. ES945O/TB3 and ES947C/TB3 come standard in black and are also available in white (ES945WO/TB3 and ES947WC/TB3).  

In addition, the existing ES945/LED and ES947/LED (models intended specifically for conferencing) are being upgraded/replaced by the new ES945O/FM3 and ES947C/FM3. These mics feature a highly visible two-state RGB LED ring (seven selectable colors + OFF) to indicate mute status and a touch-sensitive capacitive user switch that enables local muting, making them well suited for conferencing applications. The FM3 models feature a three-pin XLR output connector.  

Finally, brand new to the line are the new ES945O/FM5 and ES947C/FM5, which are similar to the FM3 models but feature a five-pin XLR output connector. With the FM5 models, not only can the switch be configured to toggle between mute and live audio, but with the microphone’s external contact closure, it can also be set up to trigger an external device, such as a camera or the room’s lighting.

The Bottom Line: All of the new mics are designed for surface-mount applications such as conferencing, recording, monitoring and other demanding sound pickup applications.

The What: EPOS has launched the ADAPT Series, a headset engineered for the hybrid professional. The company says the ADAPT 100 Series boasts "outstanding" audio quality aimed at boosting concentration and ensuring seamless communication on demand.

[The Integration Guide to Conferencing and Collaboration]

The What Else: The ADAPT 100 Series is built specifically to address the needs of the hybrid workforce, with smart audio technology to ensure uncompromised performance both on-the-go or in the office. The ADAPT 100 Series uses EPOS Voice technology with a noise-cancelling microphone to optimize the user’s voice and enhance their calls, and integrated EPOS ActiveGard technology protects users from acoustic shock. The series is also equipped with cross-functional capabilities to simultaneously enable a superior listening experience, free from disruption—allowing it to meet increasingly overlapping personal and business needs.

The Bottom Line: In addition to a stylish look, the ADAPT 100 Series is built for user flexibility and all-day comfort, featuring large on-ear leatherette or foam earpads and an ergonomic, lightweight design. A discreet boom arm that neatly folds away into the headset when not in use allows for seamless transition between calls and other tasks.

The What: Bose Professional has partnered with Barco to offer a complete audiovisual meeting solution as the Bose Videobar VB1 All-in-One Conferencing Device can now be combined with any Barco ClickShare Conference device to get meetings up quickly and running smoothly.

The What Else: The Videobar VB1 is ClickShare Certified, ensuring interoperability with Barco technology. Barco leads in wireless technology, so pairing ClickShare Conference with the Videobar VB1 significantly reduces the need for wired components in conferencing spaces. This declutters work areas and simplifies the act of joining meetings to a single button.

[The Integration Guide to Conferencing & Collaboration]

“The philosophy of Bose Work is to provide the conferencing and collaboration solutions people need, regardless of where and how they work,” said Martin Bodley, director and global head, Bose Work at Bose. “Barco’s expertise in wireless conferencing solutions provides the capabilities needed for a full-room solution and complements the VB1’s capabilities. This alliance creates a solution that reduces wires, saves space and delivers a premium meeting experience with a simple button.”

The Bottom Line: For rooms with different configurations requiring additional mic pickup, yet also require the in-room technology to remain transparent, IT managers can add Barco ClickShare Conference to one of the Bose in-ceiling audio solutions. The innovative Bose ES1 system features the Bose EdgeMax in-ceiling loudspeaker, while the more conventional Bose DS4 system features four DesignMax DM2C-LP loudspeakers. Each solution is combined with the Sennheiser TeamConnect Ceiling 2 microphone, Bose ControlSpace EX-440C processor and a PowerSpace P2600A amplifier, and is fully certified for Barco ClickShare Conference.

The What: Yamaha Unified Communications has added Mersive Technologies to its Strategic Partner Program. Yamaha's YVC series of conference phones now fully integrate with Mersive's Solstice Pod to deliver a meeting and learning solution that creates engagement for a wide variety of spaces, from offices to boardrooms and training rooms, with touchless, one-step start and clear, natural audio.

The What Else: Yamaha's software-agnostic YVC series of conference phones features the company's sound technologies, including Human Voice Activity Detection, speaker tracking, and dynamic acoustic echo cancellation that make conversation stress-free and intuitive. Mersive's Solstice Pod combines Solstice Conference collaboration software with high-performance hardware and robust I/O capabilities to transform average meeting and learning spaces into powerful collaboration environments. Paired with a Yamaha YVC-200, YVC-330, or YVC-1000 conference phone and the option of a USB camera, users have a complete room system for the hybrid workplace. Solstice Conference bridges to remote participants using any major video conferencing service, including Microsoft Teams, Zoom, and Webex, while Yamaha provides high-quality audio for any space or environment.

Related: The Technology Manager's Guide to Audio in the New Era of UC

The YVC series offers scalable device configurations to suit the room size, group size, and collaboration needs. The YVC-200 USB & Bluetooth Speakerphone is well suited for small meeting rooms with up to four people. Meeting rooms with four to 10 people will benefit from the YVC-330 USB & Bluetooth Speakerphone, which features Yamaha's SoundCap technology to eliminate background noise. In addition, two YVC-330s can be daisy-chained to cover up to 16 participants. Large meeting spaces where up to 40 people can gather will require the YVC-1000's separate microphone and speaker system.

"Yamaha continually strives to create high-quality, easy-to-use collaboration solutions for today's meeting spaces,” said Michelle Baeza, director of strategic partnerships at Yamaha UC. “Partnering with Mersive Technologies ensures that users can effortlessly collaborate with professional audio that is vital to meeting productivity and efficiency. Together, our shared value of flexibility brings new capabilities to meetings."

"At a time when hybrid and remote communications are more important than ever, Mersive's partnership with Yamaha provides valuable solutions for the hybrid workplace," said Robert Balgley, CEO of Mersive. "Working together with Yamaha allows Mersive to expand our offerings to channel partners and end users, providing flexible room solutions that support all meeting room types—from private offices to large boardrooms—with best-in-class meeting collaboration, conferencing support, and audio clarity."

The Bottom Line: This new alliance brings Yamaha's audio and Mersive's Bring Your Own Meeting room system to hybrid workspaces, allowing onsite and remote workers to work together more easily without the stress of common collaboration challenges.

For schools across the country, one of the biggest challenges created by the coronavirus pandemic has been hybrid learning. In some cases, hybrid learning has been necessary to meet social distancing guidelines. And in many school systems, it has been used to offer families options should they prefer their students learn from home without missing the benefits of in-person teaching.

Related: The Technology Manager's Guide to Transformative Classroom Solutions

St. Jude School, a Catholic school of 480 students, prekindergarten to 8th grade, in Elyria, OH, adopted new collaborative technology to enable hybrid learning, installing easy-to-use solutions from conferencing pioneer Konftel so students could attend class whether they were at home or in school.

Hybrid Learning Made Easy

When the pandemic hit the United States in March 2020, the Ohio governor mandated all schools close their doors, sending students home to learn online. In August 2020, the St. Jude School was able to open its doors again and offered two learning options to students and their families. They could choose to continue their education remotely or attend classes in-person. Either way, St. Jude School was committed to delivering a unified learning experience to hybrid classes of both remote and in-school students.

“We have approximately 75 percent of students attending daily and 25 percent choosing to learn remotely,” said Doug Hopiard, director of IT and integration at St. Jude School. “We wanted to accommodate and support the students and parents who chose remote learning and that’s where the Konftel solutions come in.” 

Konftel delivered videoconferencing solutions to enable hybrid learning in more than 25 classrooms and spaces throughout the school. Each solution includes a high-quality video camera (in some cases capable of ultra-high definition 4K resolution), an integrated Konftel speakerphone featuring the company’s OmniSound HD audio technology, and a Konftel OCC Hub for quickly and easily connecting everything together.

“The largest advantage Konftel offered St. Jude School is a streamlined solution with one cable that connects all devices,” Hopiard said. “It made it very easy to install and we were able to get it up and running very quickly.”

A Single Connection

In each classroom outfitted with Konftel collaboration technology, the camera, speakerphone, and a school-provided flat-panel display connect directly to the Konftel hub, unifying system management and settings in one device. Some classrooms feature compact 32-inch displays; others have larger 65-inch models depending on the available space and layout. Teachers attach their computing platform—either their laptop or a classroom PC—to the hub via a single USB cable and launch the school’s Google Meet platform to pull in remote learners. Students working from home are shown on the attached 32- or 65-inch display and they can view in-class SMART Boards, projection screens, and more through the Konftel cameras, some of which support wide-angle viewing while others feature full pan-tilt-zoom capabilities.

“Like many schools hurrying to support hybrid remote and in-class learning, St. Jude School tried using small, personal webcams and laptops to connect with remote learners, but quickly found those setups couldn’t really capture the entire classroom,” said Peter Gasparro, the Konftel regional sales director who visited the school and helped specify solutions for each learning situation.

The Konftel systems allow teachers to create up to 10 preset camera modes tailored to the learning resources in a specific classroom. The default can be a wide-angle shot of the entire class, but then with the push of a button on a remote, the Konftel camera can instantly focus on a SMART Board or other display showing remote learners the same lesson their classroom peers are studying.

The St. Jude School adopted two different camera models in their learning spaces—the Konftel Cam20 and the Konftel Cam50. The former is a 4K camera capable of a 123-degree field of view, showing complete classrooms in detail, and the latter a high-resolution 1080p camera with PTZ functionality and a 12x optical zoom. 

Technology Tailored to Each Learning Space

Gasparro worked with Hopiard and the school’s team to ensure each individual learning space included the right mix of Konftel audio and video technology, tailored to each room’s size, dimensions, and layout. For example, the Konftel C2055 with its Cam20 is well suited to medium-sized classes, while the Konftel C5055Wx and its Cam50 perform well in larger classes where the PTZ video functionality comes in handy.

Gasparro and Hopiard coordinated the placement of devices in each learning space, running cables as necessary to position cameras, displays, and speakerphones for optimal coverage. In some cases, they used active, amplified USB extension cables to position cameras or audio devices in better locations.

“We also installed collaborative technology in one of the school’s multipurpose rooms, a larger space where teachers meet and have lunch,” Gasparro said.

To enable remote collaboration while maintaining in-school social distancing, the multipurpose room was outfitted with multiple Konftel conferencing solutions, daisy chained together into a unified system. In other learning spaces, the school adopted Konftel Hybrid systems, which not only facilitate collaboration over Google Meet but also support the school’s existing phone systems.

Simplification Fosters Adoption

“The one-cable connection was key to helping the school integrate remote collaboration into their classrooms in a flexible, thoughtful manner,” Gasparro said. “Teachers didn’t have to worry about plugging in multiple cables because everything was already installed and set up as the default microphone, speaker, and camera for their Google Meet classrooms. And the solution also made it possible to incorporate their touchscreen boards, projectors, and other monitors into hybrid learning lessons.”

Hopiard said teachers have had to adjust to delivering lessons simultaneously to remote and on-site students, but things are falling into place and the Konftel solutions have been a crucial enabler.

“This technology allows our teachers to connect with students at home, which in turn allows the children to receive instruction in real time along with their classmates,” Hopiard said. “It’s been working great. The teachers, the parents, and the students at home are pleased with these enhanced learning tools…. It was so easy to set up and so far, is very easy to maintain.”

The What: Sennheiser has announced a free firmware update for its TeamConnect Ceiling 2 conferencing mics that adds TruVoicelift, a voice amplification system that improves audio intelligibility. 

The What Else: TruVoicelift is powered by an advanced frequency shift algorithm that delivers a few crucial extra dB of gain, as well as a “feedback prevention mute” function—if levels should get too loud, TCC 2 briefly mutes to prevent any feedback. Speakers can therefore relax and focus on their presentation, knowing that TeamConnect Ceiling 2 will provide optimum audio for their audience.

Related: The Technology Manager's Guide to Audio in the New Era of UC

During pauses in speaking, if a pre-defined audio threshold is not reached, a noise gate will be activated that mutes TeamConnect Ceiling 2 to prevent any background noise from being amplified.

Depending on the size and configuration of the room, additional TeamConnect Ceiling 2 microphones can be installed as audience mics, thus creating a completely touchless microphone solution that reduces potential hygiene risks.

All TruVoicelift settings can be controlled via the Sennheiser Control Cockpit app. The app also allows users to create “priority zones,” i.e. areas where audio is predominantly picked up. This is helpful for any setups where audio usually comes from a defined place, such as the front of a lecture hall. Also, you can define “advanced exclusion zones,” enabling you to target and exclude noise sources with pinpoint accuracy, such as air conditioning or ventilation equipment.

“We have many happy TeamConnect Ceiling 2 users across the globe, and we asked ourselves: What if they could use their existing tech for even more?” said Jens Werner, portfolio manager in Sennheiser’s Business Communication Division. “This was the starting point for designing the latest software update, which adds the TruVoicelift functionality to TeamConnect Ceiling 2. It endows the mic array with many innovative features for perfect audio all the way to the back row.”

The Bottom Line: TruVoicelift enables clearly audible in-room audio for classrooms, lecture halls, and boardrooms, with many controllable features that make for a pleasant and clear listening experience. For existing TeamConnect Ceiling 2 (TCC2) implementations, users can now add the TruVoicelift functionality simply by installing the free firmware update (1.6.4) via the new version of the Sennheiser Control Cockpit app (4.3.0).

The What: Vaddio has added the new Vaddio Ceiling Speaker and USB Audio Bundle to its full suite of conferencing and collaboration products. 

The What Else: The Vaddio Ceiling Speaker is designed for easy installation and accurate voice reproduction. The two-way speaker is built with a specially designed coaxially mounted cone tweeter and a high-performance 4-inch metalized cone woofer and rubber driver surround for long-lasting use. The speaker can be flush mounted in a wall or ceiling and comes with a lightweight ceiling tile brace.  

Related: The Technology Manager's Guide to Audio in the New Era of UC

Vaddio has also refreshed its EasyTalk Audio Bundle with a new USB Audio Bundle which includes a pair of the new speakers, two best-selling CeilingMIC ceiling microphones, and an EasyUSB Mixer/Amp for a complete audio solution suitable for most conference room and classroom sizes. 

“With the growth in hybrid learning spaces, we see an increasing need for remote participants and on-premise faculty and students to easily communicate during live classes,” said Scott Rolfes, Vaddio product manager. “The addition of the new Vaddio Ceiling Speakers to our ConferenceSHOT AV camera and microphone create the distance-learning-in-a-box solution education institutions are searching for.” 

The Bottom Line: The USB Audio Bundle provides driverless, plug-and-play audio with popular videoconferencing platforms like Microsoft Teams, Zoom, Google Meet, GotoMeeting, and more. With the new ceiling speakers, the solution provides full high-quality audio solution for organizations of all sizes.

The What: Biamp has announced Launch, a one-touch automatic device discovery and tuning feature available on its new TesiraFORTÉ X and Devio SCX series processors. According to Biamp’s CEO Rashid Skaf, the feature is one of the most significant developments in the company’s 40-plus-year history. 

The What Else: Launch is designed to allow users of all abilities to set up a professionally tuned conference space, and is suitable for rooms of all sizes. Users simply connect the equipment, then press the Launch button on the TesiraFORTÉ X or Devio SCX, which will immediately identify and configure every device in the system and perform a tuning cycle. 

Related: The Technology Manager's Guide to Audio in the New Era of UC

Biamp Launch measures the acoustic characteristics of the room and then automatically applies signal processing, acoustic echo cancellation (AEC), speaker tuning, and noise reduction. Biamp Launch supports Biamp Parlé microphones and a range of other Biamp network peripherals, including the AMP450 range of PoE+-powered amplifiers, the HD-1 dialer, and the EX-UBT USB extender.

“Biamp Launch, Biamp’s one-touch automatic discovery and tuning feature, represents 45 years of audio experience," Skaf said. "We have used everything we’ve learned—from engineering to design to tech support—to make a really complex process simple. Now, with the press of a single button we can design a consistently great audio experience in any space with remarkable speed. It’s one of the most important innovations in Biamp’s history.”

The Bottom Line: By automating the room tuning and commissioning process, Biamp Launch enables consistently clear audio in any space with remarkable speed. 

AV Technology is set to host a panel discussion on the massive transformation the workforce will undergo in 2021 and beyond. The webinar will be held on Thursday, Feb. 18 at 2:00 pm ET.

2021 marks a new era for the workplace. While we’re still living and working with the realities of COVID-19, many believe that the hybrid workplace will become the new norm in the post-pandemic world. How we square a new culture, workflows, and physical spaces with what was developed pre-COVID is top of mind for workers and those who will help shape the new workplace. 

“I’m particularly excited about the varied expertise of our panelists,” said panel moderator, Cindy Davis, contributing editor to AV Technology and Systems Contractor News. “In preparation for the webinar, I’ve had several engaging conversations with the panel about everything from creating adaptable workplace environments to technologies that enable collaboration, and I look forward fielding questions from attendees.”

Join our expert panel as they discuss the technology solutions for the new hybrid workplace. 

• The new meeting space: touchless, wireless, and multimodal
• A new look at collaboration and presentation solutions
• Work from anywhere—ensuring a consistent, high-quality experience
• Why “good enough” audio and video are no longer acceptable
• A space-by-space: The cameras, displays, speakers, and microphones that enable the hybrid workplace
• Nurturing a hybrid culture 

Industry Panel:

• Martin Bodley, Director and Global Head of Bose Work at Bose Professional
• Christopher Jaynes, Founder, and CTO at Mersive
• Mark Peterson, Principal at Shen Milsom & Wilke LLC
• Chris Phillips, Technical Applications Engineer at Sennheiser
• Kay Sargent, Senior Principal, Director of WorkPlace at HOK
• Moderated by Cindy Davis, contributing editor to AV Technology 

Bring your questions!

Register Today

Thursday, February 18, 2021

2:00 pm ET 

The What: Logitech has introduced its next generation of appliance and PC-based videoconferencing solutions designed to work with today’s leading services such as Microsoft Teams and Zoom: the new Rally Bar, Rally Bar Mini, and RoomMate.

The What: The new Logitech Rally Bar, purpose-built for mid-sized rooms, and Logitech Rally Bar Mini for small rooms, transform meetings with high-quality video and clear audio in an all-in-one design. Rounding out large meeting rooms, the new Logitech RoomMate is a computing appliance that allows customers to run videoconferencing services on Logitech conference cams like Rally Plus without a PC or Mac. 

Related: The Technology Manager's Guide to Audio in the New Era of UC

With smooth motorized pan and tilt in a video bar form factor and sharp optics up to 4K, Rally Bar features lossless image quality up to 5X optical zoom, which will be digitally enhanced up to 15X total zoom. Both video bars feature ultra-low-distortion speakers for clear, room-filling sound. An adaptive beamforming mic array picks up voices at every seat with clarity, focusing on the active talker and auto-leveling louder and softer voices while suppressing unwanted noise. Further, a patented anti-vibration suspension system minimizes speaker vibrations that can travel through walls, stands, and tables.

Rally Bar and Rally Bar Mini feature sleek, rounded edges for an elegant, minimalistic look. Featuring recycled polyester fabric on the speakers, both video bars are available in Graphite or White to complement the aesthetic of modern conference rooms.

Both video bars come equipped with Logitech RightSense technology and AI Viewfinder, a second camera dedicated to computer vision. The camera detects human figures and processes where they are in real-time, enhancing the precision of Logitech RightSight auto-framing and camera control so meeting participants are always in focus, whether they are late joining or moving about.

Rally Bar and Rally Bar Mini come with cable management and flexible mounting options for installs with minimal footprint. Setup is designed to take just minutes out of the box, and tech managers can monitor and manage the video bars from a single platform using Logitech Sync or their preferred device management dashboard. The devices also provide insights into how conference rooms are being used with metrics like people count, especially important for room occupancy limits in the hybrid workplace.

“We’ve always methodically focused on what customers want, and that’s products with premium quality at a reasonable price,” said Scott Wharton, general manager and vice president, Logitech Video Collaboration. “From ease of use and manageability, to bringing scale to businesses, we want to make products bigger and better, while reducing complexity. Our goal is to put video in every meeting space in the world. In order to do that, we need to make it easy, simple and cost-effective, which is what we believe we’ve achieved with this new portfolio of products.”

The Bottom Line: As videoconferencing continues to become an integral part of every business, Logitech’s latest portfolio aims to help organizations become more flexible. Users can run supported videoconferencing applications natively on Rally Bar and Rally Bar Mini, like Microsoft Teams and Zoom, or connect them via USB to virtually any room PC or Mac. The devices also support BYOD (bring your own device), enabling users to plug in a laptop and run their chosen video service.

Logitech Rally Bar is the first from the next generation appliance portfolio that will be broadly available at the end of this quarter. Rally Bar also comes with built-in support for Microsoft Teams Rooms on Android and Zoom Rooms appliances, with Zoom available immediately. Rally Bar Mini and Logitech RoomMate availability will follow. Pricing for Rally Bar starts at $3,999; Rally Bar Mini starts at $2,999; and Logitech RoomMate starts at $999. Logitech’s portfolio will also work with GoToMeeting, Pexip, and RingCentral.

Nureva has announced that its HDL300 audio conferencing system is now certified as a Microsoft Teams Room device, making it the first microphone and speaker bar to be certified for large meeting spaces, according to the company. 

After undergoing Microsoft’s rigorous testing process, the HDL300 was certified for large meeting spaces up to 15 feet by 28 feet (4.5 by 8.5 meters). Powered by the company’s Microphone Mist technology, the HDL300 system fills a room with 8,192 virtual microphones so in-room participants can move around, maintain physical distance, and still be heard clearly by remote participants. Unlike traditional systems for large spaces, there isn’t a need for a DSP, complex installation, and calibration of multiple components such as table-top pods and ceiling mics.

Related: The Technology Manager's Guide to Audio in the New Era of UC

IT teams can quickly install and set up the HDL300 system in under an hour. The system hangs on a wall with two screws and connects via USB to a computer with Teams software. It calibrates automatically and continuously so the Teams Room is always ready to go—even if it has been reconfigured to accommodate changing uses or distancing protocols.

Since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic, Teams has become indispensable to a growing number of organizations and education institutions around the globe that have shifted to a hybrid model, where a combination of workers or learners are physically in the same space, alongside those who are remote. Recent data show that daily active Teams users climbed to over 115 million at the end of October, and more than 230,000 education institutions are using Teams for remote and hybrid learning. As those numbers continue to grow, reliable audio conferencing that is easy to implement and manage will continue to be an essential aspect of any IT strategy to support collaboration. The HDL300 provides Teams customers with a new certified device option that is well suited to meet this need.

“As the global adoption of Teams continues to grow, so will the need for reliable audio conferencing solutions that deliver performance without complexity,” said Nancy Knowlton, Nureva’s CEO. “We are thrilled that the HDL300 is the first microphone and speaker bar to be certified for Microsoft Teams in large meeting rooms, demonstrating its unique ability to provide full-room microphone coverage from a single device.”

“The rapid shift to hybrid models of working and learning has created an urgent need for solutions that make it easy to fully support the needs of dispersed teams without compromise,” said Albert Kooiman, Microsoft’s senior director of Microsoft Teams Devices Partner Engineering and Certification. “We were excited to see how Nureva’s HDL300 system delivers the audio performance we demand for certification with a product that is so simple to install and use.”

Get your free copy of SCN's 2021 Integration Guide to Conferencing & Collaboration.

DOWNLOAD NOW

The State of UCC

The future of work seems intertwined with the future of conferencing and collaboration. As more employees are working from home, employers are looking at smaller meeting spaces and ways to improve engagement and connection across disparate spaces. This supplement explores the role audio and video technologies play in these circumstances, and how integrators can best leverage the opportunities to improve communication, even in challenging situations.

Product Showcase

Check out the latest collaboration tools from companies like Intel, Sennheiser, and more.

At Issue

Experts from industry-leading companies like Atlona and Synnex discuss leveraging UCC technology during a pandemic. 

Download the Integration Guide to Conferencing & Collaboration.

This year, the AV/IT industry has witnessed agility and innovation like never before. Existing technologies are being leveraged and manufacturers have developed new products and solutions to help facilitate a healthy return to corporate and college campuses, hospitality, and more.

Over the coming months, as the workforce returns to the office and more students return to the classroom, AV/IT managers are deploying no-touch, or touchless technologies to automate everything from opening a door to launching everything needed for a meeting. We reached out to manufacturers to learn about the solutions they’re working on for this new, touch-free world.

1 Beyond

As a manufacturer of automated camera solutions, we have been hearing from customers for a while that they want a room that “just works.” Teachers and CEOs who walk into a room for a meeting do not want to worry about the technology. IT managers expect low-maintenance and low-support requirements with more rooms outfitted for videoconferencing.

With social distancing and hygiene concerns, the need for automated, “touch-free” rooms has only increased, and this includes larger multi-use and divisible conference room spaces. Thankfully, recent technology advances are making this possible for audio, video, content sharing, and control. These “hands-free” automated rooms will benefit users for years to come—even after the COVID crisis is behind us. Remote work and hybrid meetings are here to stay.

22Miles

In the COVID-19 era, there are many new challenges in the return to normal. Today’s kiosks offer a plethora of features: automatic voice control prompts to reduce physical touch on the device, access to communications via QR codes, on a smartphones, and facial recognition and multi-user tracking for employee and guest check ins.

Other capabilities include temperature checks via built-in thermal scanning technology, emergency alerts and updated news on facility policies, and instructions for safely navigating a facility to adhere to social distancing. Additional interactive wayfinding throughout a facility can guide navigation around a building, regulating available spaces and pre-approved routes to reduce wandering and support effective social distancing.

AtlasIED

Reducing manual contact with people and technology is priority number one in the return to normal life during COVID-19. AtlasIED’s new Atmopshere lineup was designed to reduce physical contact with technology that controls a business’s or school’s public address, life safety and security, and audio systems. For instance, a QR code accessible through Atmosphere’s digital signal processor grants authorized users access to certain audio settings directly from a personal mobile device.

Leveraging this hands-off approach is Atmosphere’s ambient noise compensation technology. Built into the DSP are multi-patented algorithms, which enable it to continually learn and adapt to changes in the environment, such as noisy hallways when students transition between classrooms and lively lunch hours in the break room at businesses.

Atlona

Ease of use has become the guiding principle in AV and control systems, but the concept of “safe” has grown increasingly essential, leading to an approach that favors automation. Imagine entering a meeting space, presenting material, and leaving the room without touching anything but a personal laptop or mobile device. Atlona switchers—including the AT-OME-MS52W and AT-UHD-SW-510W—incorporate automatic display control, wireless presentation, automatic input selection, and occupancy sensor triggering to make this is a reality.

On the control side, Atlona’s Velocity System offers QR Code BYOD Control for environments that require manual interaction. Velocity generates a QR code that can be displayed on the touchpanel GUI or printed and placed inside the room. Users scan the code with their BYOD device to take full control of the AV system.

Avocor

At Avocor, we’ve been closely monitoring CDC guidance as the world continues to learn about COVID-19, and the data that we’re seeing is that the virus isn’t often spread by touch like people initially thought. Gesture or voice control can be awkward and difficult to get used to; it can just feel unnatural.

It’s more important to find solutions that allow you to have a more seamless meeting experience that feels familiar—especially as we navigate significant changes to the workplace. Teams working in-person don’t have to physically touch a display with their finger to have a successful meeting experience. Because of their low cost, companies can invest in stylus pens in bulk so that teams can have their own dedicated tool, for example. And if you do choose to use touch control, our displays work seamlessly with latex gloves, and we’re also collaborating with companies that have anti-bacterial cleaning solutions, such as Austere Clean & Protect. 

BenQ

For years, BenQ has recognized the value and flexibility that touchless technology provides, and we have developed solutions that let the users and participants choose how they interact with them. 

Our touchless capabilities encompass voice-activated control and proximity sensors that automatically adjust the screen for blue light and glare in our interactive flat panels (IFPs). Also integrated into our IFPs is our InstaShare software, which allows anyone to join in, share, and interact with content on screen safely from anywhere using their Chromebook, laptop, or personal device. But organizations shouldn’t have to upgrade their displays or projectors to benefit from in-room wireless screen mirroring. Our InstaShow is a completely app-free, secure wireless presentation system that creates a contact-less collaboration experience without network access or expensive infrastructure or hardware investments.

beyerdynamic

At beyerdynamic, we’re seeing more interest in products like our ceiling array and table-top microphones. Our MPR 210 and RM 30 microphones with Revoluto technology ensure great voice quality throughout the room and a perfect touchless environment tool when group meetings are necessary. 

We’re also seeing more innovative uses of products like the Phonum Bluetooth wireless speakerphone. Miami University came up with a remote learning solution: using Phonum on a mic stand with an iPad to broadcast classes to students. The Unite intercom bundles were released a few months ago to help live broadcasters, like houses of worship, better manage their productions while keeping distancing protocols in place. The bundles are feature rich and easy to navigate, with user-friendly manuals.

Biamp

As some employees cautiously migrate back into traditional offices, the desire for touchless technology in shared spaces has grown tremendously. In response, Biamp is pushing innovation to help reduce points of contact between users and devices.

Our recently launched Modena family of Wireless Presentation Systems enables users to access a space’s AV equipment and share content with colleagues, in the room or remotely, directly from their device or via their preferred UC system. With Modena Hub or Modena Hub+, every laptop, tablet, or mobile device can both share screens with a display and receive content, enabling attendees to collaborate without the need to touch or pass devices. Modena Server, a multi-room wireless presentation device, further extends this capability into common areas or other non-traditional meeting spaces.

Bose

We’re all looking at how we can best utilize and develop technology for increased collaboration and better experiences. AI’s ability to improve noise cancelation—and even learn which surrounding noise to suppress—means you won’t need to ride the mute button or constantly increase or decrease the volume because of the surrounding noise. We’re also going to see AI used with video products as a way to provide more comprehensive telemetry on how the room or space is being used, to ensure safe distancing, for example. 

Apps that control AV devices will become more commonplace, as they safeguard users from needing to touch multiple devices. This gives users the ease and freedom to control AV equipment; the NCH 700 UC is a perfect example, as it uses the Bose Music app for adjusting controls (in addition to touch commands on the earcup) and providing software updates automatically. 

Chief

The onset of COVID-19 has led the digital signage industry to recognize major shifts, such as the move to touchless interaction through QR code implementation, haptic technologies, and mobile app integration. Legrand|AV supports a myriad of these new or accelerated trends.

Chief’s Impact Kiosk and Fusion Cart products fit the needs of experiential design, while meeting the new operational demands stemming from COVID-19. As a continued response to our partners in this changing market, Chief is excited to add our Tablet Series mounts, which expand our robust product offerings for safe spaces. This new category features tabletop and floor-standing mounts, as well as accessories to support column and VESA tablets with integrated temperature sensors, printers, and Q&A screens.

Christie

Creating a touchless space is especially important now, and for many public spaces, it will be a necessity. Christie offers Pandoras Box AirScan, which combines with Pandoras Box Widget Designer to transform digital content—whether it’s presented on a LED or LCD video wall or projected onto a wall or screen—into a touch-free, interactive experience.

Pandoras Box AirScan is an IR laser-based solution that creates a motion-controlled user interface with up to 24 interaction points for displays up to 30 feet in size. It features a built-in motion stabilizer for high-speed processing and damping of the sensor motion data. AirScan is installed in front of a display and then connected to a PC with Widget Designer, where settings can be adjusted and customized to the application. AirScan is well suited for public spaces like museums, entertainment venues, and theatres looking to transform displays from touch to touchless.

Crestron

Touchless controls weren’t a new innovation as a result of the pandemic. Wireless collaboration and remote control of conferencing have increasingly been deployed in meeting spaces, lecture halls, and boardrooms for ease of presentation and collaboration. Now, touchless solutions have become more important for the return to work to support distancing and to reduce common control touchpoints. 

Crestron developed new control experiences for touchless controls that will support the return to work, including the Crestron ONE app and the new 70 Series Touch Screens. Employees and guests can safely and reliably control the AV, communications, lighting, automation, and other experiences in the Crestron system with the Crestron ONE app on their personal device. When users approach a 70 Series Touch Screen mounted on the wall or situated on a table, the proximity sensor wakes the screen to show the QR code to connect to the system wirelessly.

Extron

Now more than ever, the subject of AV automation is becoming a major talking point within organizations of all sizes. Touchless room control can be accomplished by scanning a QR code on an Extron TouchLink Pro touchpanel with your personal device. Simply point your camera at the QR code displayed on the touchpanel and you’ll automatically be taken to the Extron Control for Web interface, which provides the same flexibility of control. Extron also offers several mobile apps to help automate AV system functions, and provides easy room AV control from the palm of your hand. All our apps are free on Google Play or the App Store. 

In spaces with an Extron HD CTL 100 Workspace Controller and an OCS 100C Occupancy Sensor, organizations can benefit from automated display control based on motion detection, minimizing button presses while helping individuals remain productive.

HuddleCamHD

To protect personnel from unnecessary exposure, studios are being built with multiple IP-connected PTZ cameras that can be remotely controlled by a single operator. No longer are multiple skilled camera operators forced to share a small, "high-touch" space; instead, all unnecessary interaction is removed. 

One camera operator is too many for most meeting and lecture capture applications, though. PTZOptics’ sister company HuddleCamHD uses AI tools to automate camera operation—allowing teachers and meeting participants to interact naturally. The HuddleCamHD HuddleView uses face and motion detection to automatically frame shots so that virtual meetings feel personal and inclusive. The SimplTrack2 uses autotracking to allow educators to teach as they do best: at the front of their classrooms.

Intel

Although a pandemic was not the driver behind development of the Intel Unite solution, the collaboration platform was born with a host of features that make it well suited to a contactless world. Its wireless connectivity means there are no shared dongles or cables. Wireless connectivity also facilitates social distancing, since meeting participants no longer need to be within reach of a cable. With the platform’s remote capabilities, either through Protected Guest Access or a UC such as Webex, they don’t even need to be in the same room. The Intel Unite software is also open platform, which allows participants to use their own device to share content.

Kramer

At Kramer, we recognize the challenge that so many organizations are facing to ensure business continuity during COVID-19. That is why we have developed an innovative new contact monitoring technology: Corona Tags, small, battery-powered trackers for recording interactions that don’t adhere to the CDC or NIH social distancing guidelines. They track anonymously and securely—protecting individual privacy while recording valuable information to help enterprises and institutions continue to operate safely during the pandemic with minimal down time. Kramer’s Corona Tags are designed for easy rapid deployment and meet the most stringent privacy requirements of GDPR.

Kramer’s VIA family of wireless and/or wired presentation and collaboration solutions also feature touchless connectivity, BYOD, BYOM, and remote management. Kramer Control features touchless automation, remote access, and remote troubleshooting.

LG

As businesses around the country reopen amid the ongoing pandemic, we here at LG Business Solutions USA have expanded our suite of Health Protocol Solutions. In partnership with other technology leaders, we’re offering an array of new options—including touchless interactive digital signage displays, wellness kiosks, occupancy management systems, and more. These solutions combine LG’s displays with the industry’s top sensors and software to help businesses and public venues address the specific needs of the current touchless environment. 

I think we’ll continue to see this rapid rise in gesture and voice control in the post-COVID era. Gesture and voice technology were already emerging as viable alternatives to touchscreens even before COVID struck. Now, having gone through a global pandemic, it may be awhile before consumers are comfortable interacting with frequently touched displays.

Logitech

As companies begin to think about how to bring their employees back into the office, Logitech is helping to keep employees safe and secure by partnering with Amazon, Google, and Microsoft to create contactless experiences in meeting rooms leveraging their voice assistant technologies. 

For our customers that use Amazon, our Logitech Solutions for Zoom Rooms with Alexa for Business allows employees to begin, end, and schedule meetings simply with their voice. Google customers can say “Hey Google” on Logitech Solutions for Google Meet to help them with all their conference needs and minimize contact, while Microsoft users are able to ask Cortana with Logitech Room Solutions for Microsoft Teams.

Mersive

Mersive Solstice has always offered touchless collaboration, content sharing, control, and markup for meeting and learning spaces. However, in 2020, Mersive launched three major new product initiatives that further enhance Mersive’s ability to support the hybrid workplace: Solstice Conference enhances collaboration among onsite and remote participants through touchless videoconferencing; Solstice Active Learning enables video routing for confidence monitors in large spaces where participants need to spread out; and Solstice Cloud allows organizations to monitor and manage the return to work through remote deployment analytics, alerts, and management capabilities. 

As we move into 2021, Mersive is focusing on the next iteration of capabilities that will support safe and healthy workplace collaboration—including smart new features built around room occupancy, monitoring of scheduled versus ad-hoc meetings, and more. 

OnQ

There’s no doubt the pandemic catalyzed massive adoption of low-touch and touchless solutions. To use retail as an example, people are looking for ways to shop safely, while stores are eager to find new ways to increase customer engagement without physical interaction. 

OnQ’s Converge Control lets shoppers scan a QR code on their phones to take control of an in-store digital display. What retailers especially love about this solution is that it doesn't require an app, and customers don’t need to connect to the store’s Wi-Fi network. What’s more, customers can purchase on the spot using their phones and have products shipped to their homes.

Peerless-AV

With an increased importance set on best ways to stay safe in the pandemic, Peerless-AV introduced new solutions for public health preparedness and viral transmission prevention with an Occupancy Control Kiosk, three variations of Temperature Sensing Digital Signage Kiosks, as well as Temperature Sensor Tabletop and Floor Stand Mounts. These solutions allow companies and businesses to follow guidelines in real time. 

The Temperature Sensing items offer self-service, non-contact temperature screening via a tablet; Occupancy Control regulates foot traffic at each point of entry and detects if a visitor is wearing a mask, while also displaying dynamic digital messaging, such as rules, instructions, wait times, promotions, and other information. 

Samsung

Businesses have had to shift quickly to outfit their spaces to ensure safety. One product designed to facilitate this is the Automatic Digital Hand Sanitizing station, equipped with MagicInfo and built-in IR motion-sensor. The kiosk dispenses sanitizing gel or foam and delivers safety information via the display screen that consumers need to follow while inside the building. Additionally, we have seen the Samsung Pro TV integrated into education and hospitality spaces to assist with messaging, wayfinding, and social-distancing protocols. 

Sennheiser

Remote meetings are no longer optional, but have quickly become a given. Travel limitations and social distancing recommendations have resulted in reduced room capacities at companies, so there will always be someone participating remotely, and that requires the right collaboration equipment. Moreover, there is a substantial demand for equipping more rooms with remote conferencing technology. 

Besides the obvious need for more supportive collaboration products, the increased sensitivity and awareness toward hygiene matters will continue. Users have become sensitive to interacting with shared devices, and so touchless workflows are on the rise. 

For reasons of simplicity and convenience, touchless audio was a focus for Sennheiser pre-COVID and will continue to be something that we explore long after COVID is behind us. We are happy to be able to offer a suite of products that meet touchless demands now and in future. 

Sharp

Sharp has been offering touchless solutions for years—making this year’s adjustment easier. Sharp worked with Amazon Alexa to create MFP Voice, a feature that has become essential to office safety. This voice activation feature offers a touchless solution by allowing users to print, copy, scan, and fax, simply by speaking the desired commands. 

Sharp has also developed Synappx Go, an app that can be installed on your smartphone and used to control your MFP’s scanning, copying, and printing needs. This means users touch their personal device and not a shared device.

Shure

The pandemic has altered audio capturing plans for a number of industries, and Shure’s array microphones—which are traditionally thought of for conference rooms or classrooms—have found success in providing quality audio in other professional applications. 

Where tabletop, lavalier, and handheld microphones are no longer feasible, Shure offers options of overhead-mounted array microphones with steerable coverage technology to provide broadcast-quality audio. The MXA910 array microphone, the MXA310 tabletop microphone, and the new MXA710 linear array microphones are the leading products in this category. MXA products have been used for several broadcast applications, including being mounted inconspicuously for reality TV shows and to capture interview audio in radio and TV studios.

ViewSonic

As it became clear that the pandemic was going to be a long-term issue, ViewSonic shifted product offerings to provide partners with ways to keep their businesses moving. With the continued need for wayfinding, communication, and safety, ViewSonic introduced health kiosks that hold a hand sanitizer dispenser (optional), a media player, and a 24- or 27-inch monitor that can be used to welcome customers or provide information as people enter a business. These displays come with integrated software that allows users to communicate wirelessly.

ViewSonic has been working with its factories and partners to ensure they have the resources to keep their business moving forward.

WolfVision

We’re seeing tremendous interest in our range of Cynap all-in-one AV appliances. This is especially true in education, corporate, and judicial environments, where people are looking to minimize the amount of interaction they are forced to have with shared surfaces. Overall, our Cynap solutions have proven to be an ideal way to swiftly implement safe working and learning environments because they provide all the functionality needed in the modern meeting space in a single appliance. This includes wireless presentation, HDMI connectivity, source selection, web conferencing (i.e. Zoom, MS Teams, BlueJeans, et cetera), and room control.

Yamaha

Earlier this year, Yamaha introduced ADECIA, a family of communication products for enterprise or meeting spaces. ADECIA provides all the components and automatic technologies to reduce set up time, costs, and complexities.

It introduces the RM-CG multi-beamforming ceiling microphone and RM-CR audio processor, and includes Yamaha's long-trusted PoE switches and VXL Series line array speakers. By utilizing four dynamic beams that continuously track voices and adaptive Acoustic Echo Cancellation and Human Voice Activity Detection technology, the ceiling microphone creates an audio experience that sounds as good as personal tabletop microphones. The solution auto-detects installed components, auto-configures the devices, and auto-optimizes audio performance so that components never have to be adjusted after the initial setup, even in reconfigurable rooms. 

The What: TEKVOX has announced that its cameras are now compatible with the HTML5 standard, enabling camera control via web portals.

The What Else: TEKVOX’s cameras are part of the company’s Drop-In A/V solutions for videoconferencing and distance learning; cameras may also be purchased separately for video capture in classrooms and conference rooms. Most available cameras support resolutions up to 1080p; however, TEKVOX has recently added 4K cameras for customers who demand the highest standard in video quality. In addition, TEKVOX offers two new auto-tracking cameras to capture speakers dynamically: the Wunderbar All-in-One Conferencing Bar—featuring a built-in microphone and speaker—and the stand-alone HD/1080p Auto-Tracking Camera, with smooth 10x optical zoom.

Related: The Technology Manager's Guide to Videoconferencing and Streaming

TEKVOX’s PTZ cameras have different levels of zoom: from 5x optical zoom—for use in small spaces requiring a wide field of view—up to 20x zoom for larger lecture halls. They feature smooth and precise movement for pan, tilt, and zoom operations.

All the cameras offered by TEKVOX are available with HDMI or HDBaseT outputs. In addition to TCP/IP (web-based) control, they are controllable via RS-232, RS-422/485, or the included IR remotes.

“The new auto-tracking and 4K cameras bolster our full range of professional-quality PTZ cameras,” said TEKVOX CEO Jim Reinhart. “By offering HTML5 compatibility, all TEKVOX cameras are now fully qualified for corporate and educational applications in a post-Flash world.”

The Bottom Line: With Adobe ceasing to distribute and update Flash Player after December 31, 2020, HTML5 is recognized as a viable alternative for Flash content, and major browsers have integrated the open standard. TEKVOX has recognized this industry shift by providing HTML5 compatibility for control of its cameras.

The What: Shure is working with camera manufacturer Huddly to provide a new set of networked system product bundles for conferencing rooms. Shure is offering the Huddly IQ AI-powered meeting room camera as an optional add-on for a complete audio/video solution in a variety of bundle choices. 

Related: The Technology Manager's Guide to Videoconferencing and Streaming

The What Else: These bundles provide more convenient project specs and streamlined deployment to a wide range of room sizes and types, at a discounted price. There are numerous configurations, depending upon customer needs.

Table Array Microphone bundle featuring:

• Microflex Advance MXA310 Table Array Microphone
• IntelliMix P300 Audio Processor
• Microflex MXN5-C Networked Loudspeaker
• Huddly IQ meeting room camera

Linear Array Microphone bundle featuring:

• Microflex Advance MXA710 Linear Array Microphone
• IntelliMix P300 Audio Processor
• (2) Microflex MXN5-C Networked Loudspeakers
• Huddly IQ meeting room camera

Ceiling Array Microphone bundle featuring:

• Microflex Advance MXA910 Ceiling Array Microphone
• IntelliMix P300 Audio Processor
• (2) Microflex MXN5-C Networked Loudspeakers
• Huddly IQ meeting room camera

Huddly IQ’s 150-degree wide-angle lens and full HD video makes sure everyone in a small meeting room is seen and feels part of the conversation, especially as they are socially distanced. USB-powered and compatible with any platform, the Huddly IQ is well suited for smaller rooms and ad-hoc collaboration.

“With the increased adoption of AV technologies geared around simple deployment, intuitive operation, and seamless compatibility with leading collaboration platforms, this ecosystem offers a complete audio and video solution,” said Chris Merrick, marketing director, global systems, Shure. “Both Huddly and Shure believe in providing superior user experiences, and these new bundled options deliver.”

The Bottom Line: Huddly IQ’s Zoom and Microsoft Teams certification enables it to integrate seamlessly with Shure conferencing products. The expanded range of Shure Microflex Advance products—with complementary software for design, management, and control—offers expanded possibilities for systems integrators to deploy Shure’s audio capabilities into more types of meeting and collaboration environments. The Microflex Advance products are all natively designed to work with one another, and provide the market with a fast and efficient means to deploy premium audio, with IntelliMix DSP in either device-based or software formats. They are also designed to work with leading AV conferencing services such as Zoom and Microsoft Teams.