Middle Atlantic Products, a brand of Legrand | AV, has added new features and capabilities to its RackLink Cloud intelligent remote monitoring and management platform. The new update enables NEXSYS Series UPS Backup Power Systems to be remotely monitored and managed by the platform and adds new functionality for Premium+ PDUs.

[USB-C Conference Room Connectivity]

“Bringing NEXSYS UPSs into the RackLink Cloud fold and expanding on those available for our Premium+ line significantly enhances the power management capabilities available from the system,” said Shane Roma, CTS, product manager, Middle Atlantic Products. “This update provides even greater support and functionality for our customers, ensuring they have the most reliable and comprehensive power management system available.”

RackLink Cloud, powered by Xyte, makes it even easier for integrators to proactively monitor and manage Middle Atlantic’s Premium+ PDUs and now, NEXSYS UPS systems. The platform offers device-level control, enabling users to reduce truck rolls, eliminate on-site visits for routine tasks, optimize workforce allocation, and achieve significant cost savings. With faster troubleshooting, proactive maintenance, recurring revenue opportunities, and improved uptime for clients' systems, RackLink Cloud sets a new standard in remote power management. No extra equipment is needed; simply update the firmware to integrate RackLink Cloud directly into the Premium+ PDUs and NEXSYS UPSs.

[Not All Clouds Are Created Equal]

In addition to adding the NEXSYS UPS Series, the latest update to RackLink Cloud brings several new capabilities for Premium+ PDUs. Users can now view and change outlet and device names directly within RackLink Cloud, with these names reflected on both the physical unit and the RackLink Cloud interface. A new connection status indicator has been added to the Cloud Services page, providing real-time visibility into the communication status between devices and RackLink Cloud, enhancing reliability and ease of use. Additionally, the inclusion of Prometheus support allows users to leverage advanced monitoring and alerting capabilities, integrating seamlessly with their existing Prometheus setups.

Any good AV integrator takes pride in building robust, reliable systems. With the right training and experience, it’s likely that they’re able to solve any problem that comes their way. But while AV pros may have the chops to design, integrate, and troubleshoot complex systems, one element remains beyond their control: the quality of the power at their client sites.

[Executive Q&A: Keep It Clean]

Considering the monetary value of the systems AV integrators install—and the fact that electronics function best when power is consistent—this is no small issue. Recently, SCN sat down with several power management manufacturers to discuss their latest solutions that not only address this challenge, but also make it easier for AV integrators to continue to provide the reliability their clients are seeking.

Remote Control

The need for remote monitoring and control of power management systems have driven these systems to the network, either in the form of intelligent systems that operate locally or those that can be accessed in the cloud.

Jeff Mackey, CTS-D, is senior sales engineer at SurgeX, an AV power protection and surge elimination solutions developer known for its Squid line of power management systems. The company recently released SurgeX Connect, a cloud-based power management and monitoring software solution. Mackey noted that this level of convenience has become a necessity for both AV integrators as well as their clients.

Mackey observes that oftentimes when a system fails, a simple reboot is the fix. Rolling a truck to reboot a client’s system is time-consuming and expensive for AV integrators, and the client remains offline while they wait for the technician to arrive.

“If it’s IP-enabled and we can reach it through the cloud-based service, we can do that in a matter of minutes,” Mackey said. “It’s a quicker uptime for the client, which is the primary thing, and we’re not wasting [a lot of] manhours to do that.”

The Cloud Debate

TRENDnet, a networking and surveillance solutions developer, recently introduced the TPI-06, its first networked power distribution unit (PDU). When utilized with TRENDnet Hive, the six-outlet rack-mounted PDU can control, manage, and monitor devices remotely.

Evan Davis, senior manager of solutions engineering at TRENDnet, noted that solutions like these enable AV integrators with a wide client base to streamline monitoring and management remotely. The cloud brings all of these clients into one interface—and once again, there is no need to roll a truck. “You can have PDUs located throughout multiple customers powering multiple types of equipment, and have custom alerts, different management capabilities, and different scheduling for all of these customers,” he added.

Cloud-based power management offers considerable convenience, acknowledged Peter Cook, vice president at Juice Goose, a power management solutions manufacturer. It provides remote access to power management solutions as well as other devices.

[Cloud Power: Decisions, Decisions]

That said, Cook argues that one can suffer from cloud overload: An AV control system may be accessible via one cloud, while a power management system may require administrators to log into another. “Our philosophy, in terms of IP-based or web-based power control, is that we want to integrate with other people’s platforms, so we want to integrate with Crestron or Q-SYS,” he explained. “Or, if it’s a government facility or a large university, they’ve got their own established platform or cloud and we integrate with that—as opposed to creating our own platform, which then has to mesh with something else, and you’ve got different sets of buttons to do different things.”

Installation Considerations

The NEXSYS power management platform by Middle Atlantic Products, a Legrand|AV brand, unites PDUs and UPSs with a common design. The platform is also compatible with Legrand’s RackLink remote monitoring and control technology, and the UPSs feature individual outlet control.

From a hardware perspective, NEXSYS UPSs were designed to facilitate installation, according to Nyron Kahrim, product manager at Legrand|AV. The units come pre-assembled and ready to rack mounted out of the box. He also pointed out the UPS’ detachable power plug provides integrators with more flexibility, especially when they may need to plug it in above the rack.

“The UPS has to sit at the bottom of the rack because it’s the heaviest piece of equipment, [and] you’re not supposed to add extension cords to a UPS to power it up,” Kahrim explained. This solution enables integrators to switch out to a longer power cord—as long as it meets spec—to reach the plug. “Also, if you need a shorter cord for cable management, you can use that as well.”

Ethereal (formerly Metra AV), a power distribution products manufacturer, offers its Big Dog Power line of smart power management products. This includes a modular surge protection design that enables integrators to swap out surge protection modules when they are exhausted, rather than having to replace their entire PDU.

This is important, argued Adam Rogers, product manager at Ethereal, because traditional Metal Oxide Varistor (MOV) systems weaken with time. “There are the everyday surges—the air conditioner turns on, the vacuum cleaner turns on, and even the surges from outside of the [building] eat away at that surge protection,” he said. A modular system takes this into account and facilitates upgrades. “It really makes for integrator-friendly and consumer-friendly installations, because no longer do you have to replace the entire system.”

Selling Power Management

Because the power that any facility receives is inconsistent—and because electronics don’t always tolerate this inconsistency—power management is a necessary component of a Pro AV system, rather than a nice-to-have. “End users spend a lot of money to get these systems up and running," said Shane Roma, product manager at Legrand|AV. "However, the power that these devices are receiving is completely out of the integrator’s control and, more often than not, outside of the end user’s control. For all the time and money that’s been spent on this system, [power management] is a way to ensure that it’s going to stay up and running.”

There is usually more excitement associated with the fancy LED video walls or innovative audio systems, so power management often gets value-engineered out of the design. Roma encourages AV integrators to discuss power management solutions with customers early on to ensure that their AV systems are robust. “The UPS shouldn’t be an afterthought to a reliable AV system,” he added. “It’s a good way to make sure they don’t see a lot of the power anomalies that happen.”

[Thank You for Your Support]

For Rogers, AV integrators must also tap into the benefits of selling remote-enabled power management systems, so they can perform simple tasks immediately, such as device reboots. “It’s not even so much about making it easy on you, the integrator, to not have to roll a truck,” he explained. “It’s now become almost mandatory because of the amount of processing that’s being packed into the devices that are powered by our PDUs. When the system is crashing and you have to roll a truck every time—and the client is talking to someone else who has never had to do that because their integrator took care of it remotely—eventually you’re going to lose those clients.”

Much like a light bulb has a usable life, so do most Pro AV products. After a product runs its course, though, what happens to it? From components to packaging, what parts are reused or recycled? And do companies have policies in place to reduce waste during the manufacturing process?

[Viewpoint: With Systems and Sustainability, Mutual Gains are Possible]

These questions speak to the growing importance of sustainability. While definitions can vary widely, SCN generally defines sustainability as meeting present technological needs while minimizing long-term environmental impacts and raw material usage.

Commitment to Conservation

Thankfully, many companies serving the Pro AV industry already have sustainability programs. Yamaha, for example, participates in several initiatives, including the UN Global Compact, and has its own Sustainability Committee. Sennheiser has included environmental protection efforts in its corporate guidelines, with specific emphasis on materials, energy efficiency, and recycling.

[NAB Show Launches Excellence in Sustainability Awards]

According to Luca Lastrucci, co-founder and CEO of Powersoft, conserving energy has always been a part of the company's DNA. With solar panels installed on its roof, for example, the company's main factory in Italy generates enough power to be self-sufficient. "Not only does such an approach reduce the impact of equipment on the environment," he explained, "but it also represents an interesting economic advantage."

In 1995, Powersoft introduced Class D PWM technology, which Lastrucci said is "based on extremely high efficiency that allows it to transform all the energy drawn from the mains into usable power, and to recycle the reactive energy coming back from the loudspeakers. This was pretty revolutionary at the time, and it took a bit of time to be widely adopted, so we’re proud to have been at the heart of this advent."

Other Powersoft technologies aimed at improving efficiency and consequently reducing power consumption are now part of the company's design philosophy called Green Audio Power. "We will continue to contribute toward environmental sustainability, thanks to smaller, lighter, and more efficient amplifiers," Lastrucci added. "This equates to lower electricity bills but also a lower carbon footprint, as well as a smaller impact on the environment as a result."

[Editorial: Sustainability Can Be Taught]

Early last year, collaboration products developer Xilica, headquartered in Toronto, Ontario, Canada, announced its commitment to carbon neutrality. The company is working to ensure its products will have net zero impact on the environment and achieve Climate Neutral Certified status. (Climate Neutral is a global nonprofit that helps companies offset their carbon emissions.)

“We know that fighting climate change requires strong, coordinated action across industries, and hope our own efforts will make a positive contribution to the larger movement for greater environmental responsibility,” said James Knight, Xilica’s COO, at the time of the announcement.

In a blog posted last month, Broadsign CEO Burr Smith said the company has pledged to reduce and offset its carbon footprint starting in 2023. The company, which worked with experts to understand its carbon footprint, is still finalizing its plans, but expects to share details in Q2. 

“We are committed to this because we understand the climate crisis is one of the most significant challenges facing the world and we all, individuals and businesses as well as governments, must do more to make our future brighter,” Smith wrote. “I don’t want to leave future generations, including my grandkids, worse off because nobody cared enough to try and make things better today.”

Reducing Waste

Patrick Cuddy, CTS, serves as director of enterprise and Pro AV distribution for Legrand|AV. As a LEED Green Associate (LEED is a popular green building rating system), he's also very much a part of the company's sustainability efforts. That includes a place on the AVIXA Sustainability Task Force, a volunteer group focused on creating standards and best practices for the Pro AV industry to create a more sustainable future.

[Sustainability Is a ‘Top Business Priority’ for PPDS]

Legrand|AV has made a conscious effort to embrace sustainability. Middle Atlantic Products, for example, uses recycled steel in its products, and provides packaging to customers to send batteries back for recycling. Da-Lite’s screens have received certification for low emitting projection screen fabrics from the GreenGuard Environmental Institute. Another Legrand|AV company retooled an entire product line to remove lead from its soldering process.

Is there waste in the AV industry? “There’s a ton—many tons,” offered Cuddy. “The challenge is that there are a plethora of certification systems. Some are targeted to specific industries or vertical markets, while others are more universal. It’s going to be interesting to see how we evolve to marry up those various standards.”

Sustainability does not exist in a vacuum; it is interdependent on a variety of factors. So, how does the AV industry get better? According to Cuddy, the first step is to “realize we need to get better.”

From shopping bags to electronics, U.S. consumers tend to practice a “use it and toss it” mentality. Cuddy would like to see the industry improve education efforts to customers, providing product life expectancy information and other details to encourage participation. “Our world is changing,” he noted. “We have more people, and we are very consumable in our focus in the U.S.”

According to Cuddy, one of the AV industry’s biggest issues is electronic waste, or e-waste. The majority of end-of-life components are added to a landfill instead of getting some sort of second life. Cuddy proposed that older equipment can be repurposed for different applications, stripped for parts, or even recycled for new products.

Reusing decommissioned equipment could have a positive impact on the supply chain as well as the environment. "Just because there's a newer version doesn't mean the previous version doesn't work for the right application," he offered.

Cuddy said recycling is pretty good at the manufacturer’s end, as it is part of the waste stream in the production process. However, he would like to see the industry find more consistent efforts to encourage the recycling of batteries, displays, and other components.

“It’s the installed base that doesn’t have that readily available,” Cuddy explained. “People have to realize their own footprint and the environmental impact of their own production consumption. That’s where our industry can really step up.”

How Green Is Green?

What's a good first step toward better environmental practices? Cuddy said manufacturers should look for opportunities to be more sustainable in the manufacturing process. They should also make sure all components and chemicals are compliant with RoHS (Restriction of Hazardous Substances) standards. Even relatively simple actions, such as turning off lights in factories when there are no humans present or scheduling downtime for equipment maintenance, can make a difference.

For the installer, sustainability efforts often begin with asking manufacturers a single question: What is the end-of-life process for your products? Cuddy said adding sustainability information to bids and project specifications can be a very appealing feature for environmentally conscious clients.

Plus, some manufacturers offer services to reduce waste. For example, Middle Atlantic Products will assemble some items in racks prior to shipment. Not only can this improve installation efficiencies, but it reduces packing material waste at a job site. Cuddy said installers should look for manufacturers that provide those types of services.

In August 2020, d&b audiotechnik, a sound reinforcement equipment manufacturer headquartered in Backnang, Germany, announced the launch of its Certified Pre-Owned (CPO) program, under which the company recovers systems that are end-of-life, remanufactures them, and resells them into the marketplace.

Remanufacturing is not to be confused with repairing, recycling, or refurbishing. According to the Remanufacturing Industries Council—an alliance of businesses, trade associations, and academia—remanufacturing is a “rigorous industrial process by which a previously sold, leased, used, worn, remanufactured, or non-functional product or part is returned to a like-new, same-as-when-new, or better-than-when-new condition from both a quality and performance perspective, through a controlled, reproducible, and sustainable process.”

At d&b audiotechnik, systems included in the CPO program are checked for damages and dismantled down to the component level. They are then reassembled, repainted, and tested before being reintroduced into the market. Robert Trebus, director of sustainability at the company, noted the process not only enables d&b to decrease the carbon footprint of its products, it also makes its systems accessible to customers who don’t have the budget to purchase brand-new gear. “[There is] an attractive price benefit [which has] opened up another business segment,” he said.

Integrators may also look to organizations like Sustainability in AV (SAVe) for guidance on how to make their organizations more sustainable. (See our story on page 28.) Last fall, the nonprofit launched its first certification program in partnership with Tempest Technologies, an AV solutions and service provider based in Issaquah, WA. SAVe's one-day program includes an education module, workshop, and assessment so integrators can develop a strategy for achieving the 2030 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) adopted by the United Nations in 2015. Once companies identify which SDGs they will focus on, they may remain in regular contact with SAVe to share their progress, discuss their challenges, and access resources.

Still, transparency on the manufacturing side of things can help everyone make better purchasing decisions. Anyone who has attempted to buy a sustainable product understands that it can be difficult to discern just how environmentally friendly the item actually is. For this reason, Trebus would like to see Pro AV industry associations develop guidelines that help designers, integrators, and end users determine just how "green" are the products that are being specified and purchased.

[SAVe, HETMA Join Forces to Expand Sustainability Initiatives]

“My concern is that by using the word ‘green’ everywhere, the end user can’t identify what is really sustainable and what is just a greenwashing marketing campaign,” he said. “We need a little bit more structure and guidance in the market.”

Regardless, Trebus believes that pursuing sustainability is the biggest opportunity of this decade. He argues that when manufacturers work on decreasing their carbon footprint, they automatically increase the quality of their products, pointing to similarities between sustainability best practices and ISO 9001 quality management standards. “When you develop a product that is more sustainable, you increase the quality of what you do,” he added. “The result is a much higher value product in the end.” 

AVIXA Sustainability Task Force

Created by the AVIXA board of directors, the Sustainability Task Force is a yearlong initiative tasked with creating “a common understanding of sustainability for our industry.” The co-chairs of the task force are David Silberstein, channel sales manager for DTEN, and Thomas Serbruyns, vice president of strategic initiatives for Barco. The group is expected to disband by August 2023, once it had submitted a proposal that investigates how the organization can support the Pro AV industry’s efforts in becoming more sustainable.

Participating Organizations

ACT Associates

Arup

Augusta University

Barco

Branch Pattern

CalPoly

Clear-Com

Crestron

Cyviz

Distributed Sound & Video

Dobil Laboratories

DTEN

Electronics & Engineering

Emory University

HP

HS Solutions

Legrand |AV

Luxul

Midwich Group

MOOD MediaNETGEAR

Niza Alta Tecologia en Comunicacion

Optoma

Pro-Motion Technology Group

Prysm Systems

QSC

Shure

RGB Spectrum

Symetrix

Technology Architecture Design

University of Guelph

University of Virginia

Vaddio

Visualization

GOALS

University of Guelph: Christopher Hewitt, manager, classroom technical infrastructure, and Steve Borho, manager, classroom design and planning at University of Guelph believed that because of COVID-19 restrictions, not all students would return to face-to-face learning immediately when the campus reopened. "In the face of this, we felt it would be necessary to implement synchronous online and hybrid teaching technology in our classrooms."

CHALLENGES

The University of Guelph has a BYOD model in our classrooms with no classroom computers. Professors bring in a plethora of different laptops—from economical, consumer-grade laptops to high-end production workstations. Our challenge was to install classroom web conferencing with easy connection. 

Our classrooms were well equipped and well liked by professors, and we did not want to break that good working relationship by radically changing the technology. The web conference functionality needed to be added to the classroom technology package in a way that allowed the rooms to still be used as they were pre-COVID-19.

During the initial COVID-19 pivot we converted some seminar rooms to simple lecture studios using a laptop docking station, an extra monitor, a webcam, and a USB document camera. These were to accommodate professors who did not have a home or office environment conducive to teaching. We leveraged the knowledge gained from this to plan web conference lecture theaters for the fall 2020 semester, which would include a PTZ camera, AV bridge, and a tie into the room wireless mic and sound system. Unfortunately, due to supply delays, we had to reuse our simple lecture studio model and apply it to lecture theaters for the fall semester.

The delayed equipment arrived for winter 2021. At that time, we did further equipment testing, worked with our Instructional Design team, and leveraged the experience gained in the three rounds of equipment installation so far. 

In our final iteration, we focused on two designs: hybrid lecture concentrated on delivering the professor’s content to both in-class and remote students simultaneously; hybrid seminar would allow for synchronous discussions to occur between the in-classroom professor, in-classroom students, and remote students.

USER BENEFITS

Our hybrid lecture theaters use a professor-facing PTZ camera, AV bridge, HDMI-to-USB capture for presentation sources, laptop docking station, monitor on the teaching station, and tie-in to the classroom sound system and AV system. The AV bridge handles the conference video and audio. 

The HDMI-to-USB capture scrapes the presentation going to the projector, allowing any source shown on the screen to be shared in the web conference as the presentation source. Doing it this way allows for easy switching of the presentation source using the classroom touch panel.

The monitor provides the extra display often necessary to view the conference software while using PowerPoint during a web conference. The laptop docking station consolidates the camera, HDMI capture, sound, and displays into one USB connection for the professor’s laptop.

Our hybrid seminar classrooms have the same equipment, adding a student-facing PTZ camera and a full-room microphone system. The mic allows for all students in the classroom to be heard in the web conference, enabling discussions between the professor, in-class, and remote students.

Teaching and learning tasks supported in the hybrid seminar classrooms include lecture/student presentations, individual work, small group work, group presentations, and full-class hybrid discussions. 

The average equipment cost of web conferencing for each room was just under $10k. Installation was completed by our in-house AV personnel, a small team that worked extremely hard. With our touch-panel programming being done in house it allowed us to nimbly make a user interface that was simple and easy to use, such that professors did not have to worry about the technology and could just concentrate on delivering content. A successful installation in 40 classrooms was achieved in six months flat, resulting in a great end user experience.

THE AV/IT TEAM

Christopher Hewitt, manager, classroom technical infrastructure

Steve Borho, manager, classroom design and planning

Joe Mignacca, computer communications analyst

Christopher Young, electronics specialist

Ross Gilles, Frank Ridder, Shelley Vance, Jonathan Van Hoffen, multi-media information technology specialists

COMPLETED: August 2021

MORE BEST IN CLASS OF 2022

Best in Class of 2022: Grand Valley State University

Best in Class of 2022: Indiana University

Best in Class of 2022: Iowa State University

Best in Class of 2022: Ohio University Heritage College of Osteopathic Medicine, the Heritage College

Best in Class of 2022: Pepperdine University

Best in Class of 2022: University of Guelph

Best in Class of 2022: University of Massachusetts Lowell

Best in Class of 2022: University of Nevada, Las Vegas

Best in Class of 2022: University of North Carolina Wilmington

Best in Class of 2022: University of Southern California

GOALS

University of North Carolina Wilmington: This past winter, the University of North Carolina Wilmington performed massive renovations of the Upperman African American Cultural Center, giving it expanded space and new AV solutions to better serve the African American student population on campus. The AV design was led in house by UNCW’s Integrated Educational Technologies team. The team’s vision for the space was a multi-functional system that could facilitate student collaboration and learning, virtual conferencing, and social gatherings.

CHALLENGES

The design presented some unique challenges beyond the normal educational space. Before the expansion, Upperman had a single large-screen display in their main space with an HDMI connection and USB port, and this upfit represented a significant leap forward in available technology in the space. The designer, Richard Blaylock, wanted to make sure the space would have technology it would use, so there were several meetings with Sean Palmer, the center’s director, to inform on recommendations. The system needed to have discrete controls in each of four spaces, while still being one unified system that could be controlled from a central touch panel. 

With the system needs in place, UNCW settled on using a traditional point-to-point video matrix and central DSP. An AV-over-IP system was considered, but for the scope of the project, the fixed-architecture matrix switch better matched the need. 

USER BENEFITS

The space now has four zones, each with a flat panel display and ceiling speakers. These spaces are a video-conferencing room, an art gallery, a library, and “the living room,” which is for events and general student use. When not being actively used, the displays show digital signage, but, using local control points, can be swapped over to wireless collaboration units, wall input plates, or a micro-PC connected to the conferencing system. From the conference room touch panel, any input can be routed to any of the output zones using a simple-selection GUI with robust feedback.

A final function that has been planned for a future installation is a media conversion and playback system. Upperman owns an extensive library of rare media, such as out-of-print records, speeches, news and television broadcasts, and other cultural and historic media. To preserve this, a recording and playback system was designed that would allow Upperman staff to digitize the media, and then for students to use a touch panel interface that would recall and play the media on a designated display in the space.

THE AV/IT TEAM

The AV design was led in house by UNCW’s Integrated Educational Technologies team.

DATE COMPLETED:  December 20, 2021

TECH SNAPSHOT

• Extron Crosspoint matrix switcher
• Extron speakers and amplifiers
• OneLAN digital signage solution
• Mersive Solstice collaboration hubs
• Biamp Tesira AVB DSP

MORE BEST IN CLASS OF 2022

Best in Class of 2022: Grand Valley State University

Best in Class of 2022: Indiana University

Best in Class of 2022: Iowa State University

Best in Class of 2022: Ohio University Heritage College of Osteopathic Medicine, the Heritage College

Best in Class of 2022: Pepperdine University

Best in Class of 2022: University of Guelph

Best in Class of 2022: University of Massachusetts Lowell

Best in Class of 2022: University of Nevada, Las Vegas

Best in Class of 2022: University of North Carolina Wilmington

Best in Class of 2022: University of Southern California

GOALS

Indiana University: As part of new construction at Indiana University, the Luddy Center for Artificial Intelligence, classroom 1001 was designed at the directive Indiana University’s President. “They wanted a space to highlight virtual reality and have the students and facility immersed in the experience as if they were wearing VR headsets,” said Joshua Foster, manager, Learning Space Design, UITS Learning Spaces and Technology Services at IU. “They also wanted the room to be completely flexible and have full hybrid capabilities so that any of the 100 students could be heard for Zoom/Teams remote learning and lecture capture.”

CHALLENGES

“The biggest challenge for us was the curved projection image,” Foster said. “This was not something we had done before as it was a unique 21:9 aspect ratio at almost 19’-3” long and 8’-4” high. We engaged several of our manufacturers to iron out the details to create a seamless experience. The other hurdle was the requirement for everything from source to destination to be native 4K including the projector. We have done plenty of 4K displays but 4K projection was new for us.”

USER BENEFITS

“The room operates like our other classrooms so any faculty or staff member can walk into the space and use it in a basic operation mode,” Foster added. “Those who need to use some of its more advanced technical capabilities have an advanced configuration mode where advanced routing and room orientation can occur. There is a specialty high resolution PC that is in the system that users can plug a VR headset into the lectern and use to drive the custom 4K curved projection wall.”

THE AV/IT TEAM

Indiana University, University Information Technology Services/Learning Space Design and Classroom Technology Services 

Julie Johnson, Director of Learning Spaces

Mark Russell, Group Manager, Learning Spaces and Technology Services

Joshua Foster, Manager of Learning Space Design

DATE COMPLETED:  December 20, 2021

TECH SNAPSHOT

• Crestron 4-Series Control
• Crestron NVX
• QSC Q-SYS Audio, Speakers, and Cameras
• Barco 4K Laser Projector
• Planar 100" 4K ERO Displays
• Sennheiser TeamConnect Ceiling Mic 2
• Extreme Networks x440-G2 Network Switches

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Best in Class of 2022: Grand Valley State University

Best in Class of 2022: Indiana University

Best in Class of 2022: Iowa State University

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Best in Class of 2022: Pepperdine University

Best in Class of 2022: University of Guelph

Best in Class of 2022: University of Massachusetts Lowell

Best in Class of 2022: University of Nevada, Las Vegas

Best in Class of 2022: University of North Carolina Wilmington

Best in Class of 2022: University of Southern California

GOALS

Iowa State University: Katie Baumgarn wears many hats at Iowa State University which span classroom scheduling specialist, Facilities, and Planning & Management. She has overseen room scheduling for the 200+ general university classrooms at Iowa State for 30 years. All that time, she had a dream to create a classroom in the round, a classroom specifically designed to encourage every student in the class to engage face-to-face with one another. When Iowa State University was building its new Student Innovation Center, she found her ideal opportunity. Baumgarn reached out to Mike Pedersen, the newly hired audiovisual experience manager at Iowa State and described her dream. Pedersen loved the idea and immediately had a vision for an audiovisual system to make it a reality. Iowa State ultimately contracted all the audiovisual work in the new building to long-time integration partner, Mechdyne Corporation. Soon, Aaron Peterson was tasked to take Katie’s dream and Mike’s technology vision and make them a reality.

CHALLENGES

The main challenge to overcome in converting the dream to a reality was determining the display locations so every student would have a clear view of the content being presented. The team considered several options, including placing the projection screens in the four corners of the room. Ultimately the idea emerged of a “scoreboard” type layout and the displays were placed to hang from the ceiling in the center of the room. 

“I didn’t like the early ideas with projectors in the corners,” said Pedersen. “Instead, I had a vision for displays hanging from the ceiling above the instructor’s head.” With that rough vision in mind, Mechdyne was concerned about clear viewing angles for everyone in the room. Peterson recalls, “Taking note from many large arenas that were installing massive scoreboards above basketball courts and hockey rinks, specifically being a Minnesotan, and taking reference from Target Center’s new scoreboard, I came up with the idea of smaller displays behind the larger ones, so the front row could look across, past the professor, and onto the inner side of the display ring to get their content.” Having worked with Iowa State on prior projects, Mechdyne also understood that many instructors find it beneficial to be able to show two different sources simultaneously, so they went one step further and instead of single displays, they suggested outer and inner pairs of ceiling mounted displays.

Another huge challenge was COVID-19. The audiovisual installations throughout the innovation center started in January 2020. During the pandemic, Mechdyne worked closely with the Iowa State project team to establish safe working protocols so the installation could continue. It did, however, slow down the overall progress, and even after it was completed, it delayed significant use of the room until spring 2021.

USER BENEFITS

In addition to the unique display configuration, the Student Innovation Center was also the first large-scale AV-over-IP system at Iowa State. The network infrastructure team in the Information Technology Services unit was instrumental in designing and configuring a building wide network solution that could support the extensive AV-over-IP requirements. In the end, due to the number and location of the displays, the AV design for the classroom in the round ended up being a hybrid system with both AV-over-IP and HDBaseT technologies employed. It is a good example of using the right tool for the job, even if that includes a mix and match solution.

The overall solution provides a unique opportunity for instruction where there is much less lecturing and much more discussion, debate and group questioning. The room configuration is well suited for humanities areas such as philosophy, sociology, psychology, political science and even world languages.

Baumgarn saw her dream come true. “Having a classroom in the round is so exciting,” she said. “As we are able to create a unique learning and teaching environment. One that will encourage a connection between the students and instructor like no other space on campus!”

THE AV/IT TEAM

Katie Baumgarn, Classroom Scheduling Specialist, Facilities, Planning & Management, Iowa State

Liz Clark, Project Manager, Facilities, Planning & Management, Iowa State

Mike Pedersen, Audiovisual Experience Manager, Information Technology Services, Iowa State

Mike Vinson, Network Engineer II, Information Technology, Iowa State

Aaron Peterson, Senior Solutions Engineer, Mechdyne Corporation

Jocelyn Boehm, Project Manager, Mechdyne Corporation

Matt Nitchie, Sales Manager, Mechdyne Corporation 

DATE COMPLETED:  July 2020

TECH SNAPSHOT

• 8 Samsung QM65R, 65” LCD Displays
• 8 Samsung QM49R, 49” LCD Displays
• Chief Fusion Mounting Hardware Systems
• 1 Mechdyne Custom Mounting Truss
• 9 Extron NAV E 101, 1G Pro AV over IP Encoder - HDMI
• 2 Extron NAV SD 101, 1G Pro AV over IP Scaling Decoder - HDMI
• 2 Extron DTP HD DA8 4K 230, HDMI to Eight Output DTP DA - 230 feet (70 m)
• 16 Extron DTP HDMI 4K 230 RX, HDMI Twisted Pair Extender, Receiver
• 1 Mersive Solstice Pod
• 1 Denon DN-500BD MKII, Blu-ray, DVD & CD/SD/USB Player
• 1 Epson DC-21, Document Camera
• 1 Biamp TesiraFORTÉ DAN AI, Audio Digital Signal Processor
• 2 Shure QLXD24/B58-H50, Handheld Wireless Microphone Systems
• 2 Shure QLXD14/83-H50, Lavalier Wireless Microphone Systems
• 1 Extron XPA U 1004-70V, Four Channel Amp
• 10 JBL Pro Control 67P/T, Full-Range Satellite Pendant Speakers 
• 3 Vaddio RoboSHOT 12E HDMI, PTZ camera 
• 1 Extron TLP Pro 725T, 7" Tabletop Touchpanel
• 1 Extron IPCP Pro 350, Control Processor
• 1 Middle Atlantic PTRK-2126MDK, Mobile Steel Rack w/ Wood Top; 21RU
• 1 Middle Atlantic RLNK-915R, 15a, 9 Outlet, IP Controlled Power Distribution
• 1 Crestron TSS-10-W-S-LB KIT, 10.1 in. Room Scheduling Touch Screen

MORE BEST IN CLASS OF 2022

Best in Class of 2022: Grand Valley State University

Best in Class of 2022: Indiana University

Best in Class of 2022: Iowa State University

Best in Class of 2022: Ohio University Heritage College of Osteopathic Medicine, the Heritage College

Best in Class of 2022: Pepperdine University

Best in Class of 2022: University of Guelph

Best in Class of 2022: University of Massachusetts Lowell

Best in Class of 2022: University of Nevada, Las Vegas

Best in Class of 2022: University of North Carolina Wilmington

Best in Class of 2022: University of Southern California

At long-last, mask mandates are being lifted and the migration back to the office and classroom has begun. But the pandemic changed the course of many products that will be integrated this year and going forward. 

Following are just 45 of the products (in random order) that will make a difference in 2022. 

Forum Collaboration Suite

Middle Atlantic’s Forum Collaboration Suite is the answer to solving meeting equity for the hybrid workforce. Whether attendees are in person or joining remotely, they will be able to equally participate to productive conversations. The Forum Display Stand comes in either free-standing or floor-to-wall-mounted versions to support 42- to 75-inch displays. Hidden storage and an acoustic felt display shroud ensure a sleek look and superior performance. The Forum Table options include multiple shapes and sizes, all of which make sure everyone can be seen and heard equally. Set the stage for superior video conferencing with Forum.

VPL-FHZ85

Sony’s VPL-FHZ85 WUXGA 3LCD laser projector supports 4K60P input and combines brightness with efficiency, installation flexibility, and advanced operational capabilities, making it a reliable option for corporate, education, faith, and esports applications. The projector offers excellent picture quality and high brightness at 7,300 lumens (8,000 lumens center), delivering rich imagery and satisfying demanding lighting conditions. The new model incorporates Sony’s Reality Creation real-time signal processing, mapping, and analysis technology—resulting in crisp, clear pictures and text for effective presentation and display. The Reality Text feature improves text-based presentation materials by providing clearer letters and lines with enhanced legibility.

AbseniCon3.0

Absen’s AbseniCon3.0 is an all-in-one conference display solution which provides standard FHD resolution and stunning visual experience at 110, 138, and 165 inches diagonal—perfect for the enterprise and education markets. With a fully integrated LED control system, Android operating system, and internal speakers, it can satisfy all your needs in conference without additional external equipment. A friendly user interface and support of multi-way wireless sharing can further simplify your content sharing. Its easy-to-use mounting structure package allows you to mount the system to the wall or build a mobile stand in hours.

ADECIA 

Yamaha’s ADECIA family of award-winning communication products enables organizations to overcome implementation, configuration, and room acoustic challenges by providing all the equipment required for a successful installation with the highest audio quality. ADECIA includes the new RM-CG ceiling microphone, new RM-CR audio processor, and Yamaha’s long-trusted PoE switches and VXL Series line array speakers. Every component automatically integrates, reducing complexities and costs. Designed for a variety of rooms and audio connections, the end-to-end flexible solution immediately detects, configures, and optimizes all components, accounting for the location of speakers and microphones, reverberation, and echo behavior for the best-sounding meeting.

OmniStream 111 WP

Atlona’s OmniStream 111 WP is the newest member of the OmniStream Pro family. It includes a single-channel networked AV encoder for HDMI sources up to UHD @60 Hz and HDR plus embedded audio. It features a US two-gang, wall plate form factor, and includes interchangeable black and white wall plates and face plates. This networked AV encoder features advanced high-quality, VC-2 visually lossless video compression technology with user-selectable, video quality optimization engines designed for computer-generated imaging or motion video content. Flexibility is optimized when paired with an OmniStream 121 single-channel decoder, offering diverse use cases across a variety of networked AV environments. 

3000 Series 

Audio-Technica’s 3000 Series Frequency-agile True Diversity UHF wireless systems let users operate within the congested UHF spectrum, over two frequency bands (DE2 [470–530 MHz] and EE1 [530–590 MHz]). Notably, these systems are available with the option of network control and monitoring, along with the same easy setup, versatile operation, and rock-solid high-fidelity sound as standard 3000 Series components. These options also make the 3000 Series compatible with A-T’s proprietary Wireless Manager software, a Mac OS/Windows application for remote configuration, control, monitoring, spectrum management, and frequency coordination of compatible Audio-Technica devices in installed sound or sound reinforcement applications. 

PT-FRQ50U 1-Chip DLP SOLID SHINE 4K

Panasonic’s 5,200-lumen PT-FRQ50U 1-Chip DLP SOLID SHINE 4K laser projector answers the demand for ultra fine-detailed resolution and provides features ideal for education, corporate, and exhibits. Addressing a wide range of projection applications and 4K environments, the PT-FRQ50U offers virtually maintenance-free operation with enhanced reliability for continuous operation. Adding Quad Pixel Drive combined with high-speed frame rates with minimal latency, the projector retains sharp, crisp 4K images, creating a sense of realism perfect for simulations and esports. The projector’s 2.0x zoom lens brings large images to confined spaces and the wide V/H lens shift expands installation flexibility.

Dante AV

Audinate’s Dante AV delivers perfectly synchronized audio and video streams—all on a 1Gb network. AV signals can be routed anywhere, independently, without moving cables or connectors. Dante AV utilizes Dante Controller software for automatic discovery and one-click routing. Dante AV uses a JPEG 2000 codec for visually lossless 4K performance, and eight channels of Dante audio are built-in, compatible with all Dante audio products. Dante AV-enabled products are readily available, including PTZ cameras from Bolin Technology, and a range of encoders and decoders from Patton Electronics. Dante AV provides ease of use, seamless multi-vendor interoperability, and integrated control.

ClickShare Conference

Barco’s ClickShare Conference brings wireless conferencing and a revolutionary workplace experience—combining powerful remote communication with easy-to-use wireless collaboration.

ClickShare Conference allows you to start a meeting from your device using your preferred conference tool, and automatically connects wirelessly to room cameras, speakerphones, sound bars for a more immersive meeting. In less than seven seconds, you can conference and collaborate with our secure, connected, and cloud-managed solution.

With ClickShare Conference, bring your own meeting and decide how you collaborate in any meeting space—from huddle to boardroom—and share using the improved conferencing button and collaboration app to make your meetings richer and more interactive.

STREAM.One 4K

SAVI Controls’ STREAM.One 4K encoder and video processor delivers next-generation video distribution, providing H.265 encoding with multi-layered capabilities and up to 4K60 4:4:4—all over a single network cable to each display. Combining Canvas video wall with Canvas sync, the STREAM.One 4K synchronizes a source over multiple displays, creating a unified viewing experience while eliminating the cost and complexity of video wall design and installation.

Parlé Conferencing Bars 

Biamp’s Parlé all-in-one conferencing bars feature Biamp Audio and Video Intelligence technologies to deliver premium AV experiences in small- to medium-sized conference rooms. The ABC 2500 Audio Bar includes a 27-microphone array with beamtracking technology to actively track and intelligently mix conversations around the room, as well as two smart speakers that actively adjust speaker performance. The VBC 2500 video bar adds a 4K ePTZ camera that automatically identifies, focuses on, and frames active meeting participants. To install, connect a single USB cable and press the Biamp Launch button, which automates deployment and tuning.

KDS−10

Kramer’s KDS−10 is an advanced, dual-stream transceiver for streaming 4K@60Hz (4:4:4) video signals via Ethernet over copper cable. KDS−10 can be set as either an encoder or decoder. As an encoder, it encodes and streams one or two HDMI inputs over an IP network. As a decoder, it receives the encoded signal, decodes it, and outputs it to an HDMI output.

LK936ST

BenQ’s LK936ST is the first short-throw, high-brightness, 4K projector delivering incredible color accuracy and contrast—all for under 6,000 dollars. A game changer for golf simulators with its exclusive golf color mode, it’s also a versatile performer for home theater, gaming, and corporate installations. It offers 4K resolution with 8.3 million pixels, 5100 ANSI lumens, 3,000,000:1 contrast ratio, HDR, and laser-generated RGBY hues that cover an unparalleled 92 percent of the Rec.709 color gamut. Setup is easy with its short-throw zoom lens and large H/V lens shift. It’s even maintenance-free, with a 20,000-hour laser lifetime and a filter-free, dust-proof sealed optical engine.

Performance Series Ultra High-speed HDMI Cables

C2G’s Performance Series Ultra High-speed HDMI Cables with Ethernet support high bandwidth to 48Gbps and all HDMI 2.1 features—including uncompressed 8K at 60Hz and 4K at 120Hz, dynamic HDR, and eARC—as well as the latest audio formats. They are ideal for high-resolution applications such as gaming, video production, and broadcasting. Dynamic HDR optimizes video on a scene-by-scene or frame-by-frame basis and provides an extended contrast range. They feature an in-wall (CMG/FT4) rated jacket, compact overmolding, integrated finger grips, twice the port retention for reliable connections, and gold-plated connectors for better shielding, increased electrical conductivity, and durability.

DirectLight Ultra Series

Planar’s DirectLight Ultra Series line of MicroLED video wall displays delivers always-on, high-performance, high-resolution display experiences with the finest pixel pitches—from 0.6 to 0.9 millimeters—for mission-critical and refined applications. Planar DirectLight Ultra Series presents several display technology advancements that, in combination, deliver big performance with MicroLED technology, off-board power supply, proprietary alignment technology, and the powerful Planar WallDirector Video Controller and corresponding video wall management software. The U.S. TAA Compliant displays are also covered by the Planar EverCare Lifetime Limited Warranty, providing complete product coverage from controller to sub-pixel and everything in between.

MCX Gen 2 Controller

Black Box’s MCX Gen 2 Controller is an all-in-one network controller and manager for the Black Box MCX AVoIP system. Enabling complete control over the MCX system, the controller simplifies setup and management of MCX AVoIP systems, facilitates full asset tracking of devices with real-time status monitoring, and offers strong security to ensure continual protection of data and content.

    The MCX Gen 2 Controller supports scheduling and automation of key events and delivers actionable insights through advanced analytics. These tools and an intuitive GUI make it easy to optimize MCX system performance for efficient, reliable multimedia distribution and management.

DIALOG 10 USB

ClearOne’s DIALOG 10 USB is the industry’s only single-channel wireless microphone system offering professional-quality audio with USB connectivity.

Offering plug-and-play simplicity and wireless convenience, DIALOG 10 USB is the perfect solution for webcasting and cloud-based collaboration through Microsoft Teams, Zoom, WebEx, GoToMeeting, and other apps. Setup is a breeze with the included USB Type C cable that connects to any PC for audio, power, and control. With no external power source or additional audio cables required, DIALOG 10 USB is one of the easiest and fastest ways to enjoy high-quality audio in any application.

TeamConnect Ceiling 2

Sennheiser’s TeamConnect Ceiling 2 (TCC2) microphone is now integrated with
1 Beyond’s Automate VX. This collaboration enables the state-of-the-art ceiling mic to enable voice-activated camera tracking for rooms of all sizes, including boardrooms, classrooms, and other meeting spaces. Multiple TCC2 ceiling microphones can be combined to cover larger spaces, and up to 12 cameras can be placed anywhere to get the best angles. This integration allows the real-time positional information from the TCC2 to automatically switch the cameras to the optimal view, regardless of where the speaker is located in the room, ensuring a lifelike meeting and classroom experience for remote participants.

SEAMLESS dvLED Mounting Systems

Peerless-AV SEAMLESS dvLED Mounting Systems were crafted by experienced custom engineers and support staff in order to solve the most complex design and technology integration challenges. The result was an ideal solution for any unique application. With Kitted and Bespoke Series options, SEAMLESS offers slim, space-saving designs that are easily adaptable to support various dvLED display sizes and brands. The dedicated Kitted Series solutions are precisely engineered to fit major panel manufacturers specs and adapt to standard video walls. When a standard solution is unsuitable, Peerless-AV Bespoke Series solutions bring any unique flat, corner, or curved configurations to life. 

EXPAND Vision 3T

EPOS Audio’s EXPAND Vision 3T from is an all-in-one video collaboration solution for today’s smart office. Join meetings with just one touch and perform like you’re there in person. Enhance collaboration with full HD video and exceptional voice pickup and noise cancellation powered by EPOS AI. 

Simple to set up and simple to install, the EXPAND Vision 3T comes Microsoft Teams certified or optimized for leading SIP-based UC solutions. Enjoy a natural meeting experience and boost productivity with crystal-clear facial expressions, body language, and voice capture.

One:Quick Series

LG’s One:Quick Series of collaboration solutions is designed to support all in-person and remote work environments. The series includes three parts: the One:Quick Works video conferencing display and all-around productivity tool; the versatile One:Quick Flex touch display with a moveable stand to accommodate diverse usage scenarios; and the One:Quick Share wireless presentation system, which allows users to easily connect their laptop wirelessly to compatible LG digital signage products. This latest collection is designed to deliver an intuitive experience, enhancing productivity and collaboration to make office communication more convenient than ever.

Unite

Intel’s Unite solution is a flexible, easy-to-use wireless collaboration platform that excels across use cases and organizations of all types and sizes. A growing library of apps delivers just-in-time tech while a publicly available SDK streamlines development of custom integrations. A powerful in-room collaboration tool, it also seamlessly integrates with popular UC apps, giving remote participants the same rich viewing experience as on-site participants. Digital art and dynamic signage capabilities expand its utility. Easily adapted and managed, the Intel Unite solution provides the security and flexibility crucial to addressing the future of work, teaching, and patient consultations in healthcare operations. 

Nureva Console

Nureva Console is cloud-based management software that’s included with every Nureva system. It lets you remotely install updates, check devices, adjust settings and access the Nureva Developer Toolkit to customize integrations with existing workflows and third-party products. A recently added feature in Nureva Console lets you remotely check background noise in a room and the range you should expect. It’s all thanks to Nureva’s patented Microphone Mist technology, which takes the quietest reading found in a 1-minute period from continuous 500-millisecond captures. This captures the essence of the background noise, omitting speech events or sounds that are not consistently there.

C2070

Konftel’s C2070 is a video solution for huddle- to medium-sized meeting rooms, uniting the Konftel Cam20 4K conference camera with the Konftel 70 speakerphone and its OmniSound audio quality. Konftel’s OCC Hub brings everything together into one convenient kit, so a single USB cable is all a user needs to connect the camera, the sound unit, and the room’s screen to the video collaboration app on their laptop.

M 4K25 RGB

Christie’s M 4K25 RGB pure laser projector re-imagines the M Series with RGB pure laser technology, UHD 4K resolution, our latest TruLife+ electronics, electronic color convergence (ECC), and an intelligent lens system (ILS1) that’s compatible with legacy M, J, and Crimson Series projector lenses.

With 25,000 lumens and a vastly superior Rec.2020 color performance, the all-in-one M 4K25 RGB has a technology-leading form factor at 41.7 kg (92 lbs). It features double the brightness, double the color volume, and quadruple the resolution over our legacy M Series projector.

PanaCast 20

Jabra’s PanaCast 20 allows you to make an impression from wherever you dial in. This personal video conferencing device features a 13-megapixel camera that delivers impressive 4K UHD video.

It’s clever too, with AI-powered features engineered to enhance your collaboration. With intelligent zoom, intelligent lighting optimization, and picture-in-picture, PanaCast 20 automatically delivers an outstanding professional video experience. Use with an industry-leading Jabra headset or speakerphone for incredible collaboration—wherever you work.

Solo

LiveU’s Solo, stream live your event and keep communicating with your viewers and communities—flawlessly and with virtually no delay. Simple to use, LiveU offers affordable and high-quality portable live video solutions for every type of virtual event and remote production. 

The LiveU Solo video encoder offers one-touch, wireless live streaming from your camera or another video source directly to popular online platforms or any customizable web destination. All based on our reliable cellular bonding technology, the LiveU Solo is used by the world’s top broadcasters, corporate enterprises, universities, and sports organizations.

CV605-U3 PTZ Camera

Marshall’s CV605-U3 PTZ Camera is a USB-based, Zoom-certified camera with USB-C, IP (Ethernet), and HDMI connectivity—making it ideal for virtual learning, streaming, and conferencing. The CV605-U3 PTZ Camera offers flexible output options with USB-C and IP. HDMI opens a wide range of options with HDMI monitoring or switching workflows, and IP (H.265/H.264) provides an easy, single cable-to-camera setup and operation. Certified by Zoom, the CV605-U3 can operate seamlessly within a Zoom Room infrastructure. It starts with an 85-degree, wide-angle AOV with ultra low-distortion and high-quality video, which sets the standard much higher at this price point.

IPMX Development Kit

Macnica’s IPMX Development Kit helps hardware vendors test, evaluate and develop IPMX-ready AV over IP products. The kit emphasizes many key technologies and applications required for building and managing AV over IP systems, including sub-frame latency, USB extension, and outstanding UHD quality over 1GbE networks. Macnica’s MPA1000 full-stack AV over IP and ME10 SoC modules are included. Each helps product developers evaluate how standards-based video works with current and future products, and offers a reliable reference to the connections and configurations required for production purposes. An integrated web interface with customizable APIs helps product developers uniquely customize their IPMX products. 

LHM2-N & LHM2-P Active Optical Cables

Opticis USA’s LHM2-N & LHM2-P Active Optical Cables were recently unveiled. The two additions to Opticis’ active optical cable (AOC) lineup are the LHM2-N (fixed-end) and LHM2-P (detachable). These new HDMI 2.0-based additions to Opticis’ AOC lineup offer simple plug-and-play installation and deliver true 4K (4096x2160) resolution for high-speed video and audio signal transmission up to 100m (328ft) without any degradation. The all-new LHM2-N and LHM2-P are made explicitly for mission-critical, digital signage, and cinematic display applications using a plenum-, LSZH-, or TPU-graded hybrid cable. These high-performance active optical cables support a high dynamic range (HDR) with digital cinematic initiatives (DCI) that display vibrant images and offer incredible theatrical experiences for movie enthusiasts.

Poly Studio P21

Poly Studio P21 has everything you need for a pro-grade video call experience, and comes ready to go with a single USB connection that works with any video app. A brilliant 21-inch display, built-in high-definition camera, full-fidelity speakers, microphone, and adjustable ambient lighting will make you look and sound crazy good.

     The Poly Studio P21’s rich stereo speakers ensure you’ll never miss a word, and with the advanced microphone, you can be sure you’re always heard loud and clear—no shouting required. It also offers the convenience of compatibility with the video call apps you use every day.

XiO Cloud, PPDS Enabled Displays, Signage, and TVs

PPDS has teamed up with Crestron to create the most advanced version of the award-winning control and management solution on Philips workplace displays. Crestron’s XiO Cloud now integrates with a wide range of Philips models, including T-Line and C-Line interactive displays, plus the full range of digital signage and professional TVs. 

     The ability to deploy and manage workplace displays is now a simple, fast, and secure process, enabling remote control of the display’s functions from a single location—driving productivity and long-term financial gains. Installation times can be cut by up to 90 percent, with customers now able to remotely provision thousands of displays before they’re installed. 

TD1655

ViewSonic’s TD1655 is a portable 15.6-inch touch display. Ideal for travelers, remote workers, and classrooms, the TD1655 can serve as a complementary touchscreen to a laptop or tablet. The 1080p resolution offers an amazing viewing experience, while the 10-point projective capacitive touchscreen delivers a smooth and natural writing experience. The USB Type-C ports enable quick and easy transmission of audio and video, and can deliver up to 60W of two-way power. At less than an inch thick and weighing only two pounds, the ultra-slim TD1655 fits into any bag, briefcase, or backpack. 

Sonia

Xilica’s Sonia range of networked amplifiers and ceiling speakers modernizes installed audio systems for IT-friendly collaboration spaces. The series includes the Sonia C5—a compact, 5.25-inch in-ceiling speaker with a wide, even dispersion pattern that enables fewer speakers in large spaces. Sonia C5 is powered by Sonia Amp, a PoE+-enabled amplifier with integrated network switch that can power up to eight Sonia C5 speakers in a daisy chain. The Dante-enabled, plenum-rated design creates a single CatX drop to the ceiling for a full room audio system. When paired with Xilica Solaro DSPs, Xilica’s VoiceMatch technology optimizes room audio and acoustics for highly intelligible speech. 

Brightcove Video Cloud

Brightcove Video Cloud is an online video communications platform designed to help users engage their audiences, monetize content, or sell products and services across multiple devices. With solutions for monetization, marketing, e-commerce, internal communications, live streaming, analytics, and more, the platform is a simple and intuitive interface with features designed to support all video use cases. The secure and reliable platform lets users upload and easily manage content, uncover audience behaviors, boost ROI potential, reduce storage and delivery costs, and more. With the Brightcove Video Cloud platform, users have all the tools they need to increase engagement, sales, and revenue. 

SLD (Smart All-in-One dvLED) Series

Daktronics’ SLD Series makes acquiring a new all-in-one smart LED display solution easier than ever. This turnkey direct-view LED solution eliminates the installation and operational complexities associated with a traditional LED display system for those looking to add an element of luxury to their workplaces, educational spaces, and other indoor areas. Options start at 110 inches and increase to 220-inch diagonal sizes, feature a standard 16:9 aspect ratio, and offer pixel-perfect HD resolution at 1920x1080 pixels.

Integration Designer 11

RTI’s Integration Designer 11 marks a major update to the RTI programming software, providing a single programming platform for residential and commercial applications. Version 11 introduces the all-new Coral template with full support for RTI Music, customizable scroll bars across the touchscreens and apps, swappable backgrounds, and new fonts—all with auto programming for a fast start and beautiful finish to any project without sacrificing any of the advanced customization for which RTI is legendary. Integration Designer 11 also includes full integration with the RTI online driver store, enabling integrators to find and add drivers without leaving the software.

SF 8CT SUB

Extron’s SF 8CT SUB is an in-ceiling subwoofer that complements the Extron range of ceiling speakers by extending the low-frequency response in music and high performance audio applications. Designed to be mounted in the ceiling structure, the plenum-rated SF 8CT SUB blends in with other ceiling speakers in the system. The 8-inch (203 mm) low-frequency driver delivers rich bass for exceptional audio quality, even from smaller systems. With low- and high-impedance taps and an integrated low-pass filter, the SF 8CT SUB offers the flexibility to meet a wide variety of system requirements.

IP Former

Barix’s IP Former hardware turns existing analog loudspeakers into feature-rich, networked, PoE-powered IP speakers. It provides an IP network interface, audio stream decoder, and amplifier front end for a two- to eight-ohm speaker. New AES67 support enables interoperability with Dante-compatible products and AES67-based audio-over-IP networks. Also new is direct integration with Barix’s IC Paging solution, enabling IP Former devices to be used as audio playout endpoints with zone and multi-master support in the company’s advanced, IP-based paging and intercom platform. Additional recent enhancements include synchronization of audio playout across multiple speakers in the same area over shared IP infrastructure.

OG-DANTE-12GAM

AJA’s OG-DANTE-12GAM is a 12G-SDI to Dante IP audio bridge. The high-density solution allows users to easily bridge 12G, 6G, and 3G SDI sources with embedded audio to and from the Dante IP audio ecosystem with 64 channels of simultaneous bridging per card. OG-DANTE-12GAM features industry-wide compatibility with openGear frames, allowing for up to 640 channels of SDI/Dante audio bridging within a single standard 2RU frame like AJA’s OG-X-FR housing 10 cards. 

Evolution EVEX4K70

Vanco’s Evolution EVEX4K70 4K HDR Extender delivers 4K HDMI signals at 60Hz, 4:4:4 sampling, HDR, and bi-directional PoE up to 230 feet (70 meters) over a single Cat6 cable with zero latency. The extender is equipped with an HDMI loop-out for local monitoring and supports bidirectional IR pass-through for source and display control. It features digital optical output and supports multiple audio formats, including Dolby TrueHD 7.1CH/Dolby Digital 5.1CH. The extender automatically adjusts for compatibility and gain, eliminating the need for EDID and EQ adjustments.

Glass Enterprise Edition 2

Glass Enterprise Edition 2 featuring BlueJeans Meetings is new for 2022. Verizon business customers can purchase Glass Enterprise Edition 2 with BlueJeans preloaded to integrate wearables into new ways of working, offering an immersive and hands-free video conferencing experience that enables employees to work smarter, faster, and safer. BlueJeans Meetings paired with Glass Enterprise Edition 2 and a Pixel 6’s 5G mobile hotspot can boost productivity and facilitate collaboration for remote workers from anywhere. By allowing a supervisor to see a remote employee’s vantage point virtually, BlueJeans on Glass helps field workers access expert support without leaving the job. 

SuperJoy

PTZOptics’ SuperJoy do-it-all serial, IP, and NDI camera control joystick has just gotten better with updated firmware. The SuperJoy can now search for and add PTZOptics or NDI cameras for instant camera discovery and network configuration. Users can also create larger camera groups, with up to 170 cameras in a single workflow. SuperJoy can also control remote sources via NDI Bridge. Putting sophisticated multi-camera production control at the fingertips of users of any ability level, the SuperJoy has fully featured control over any PTZOptics, HuddleCamHD, Sony, Birddog, Newtek, and other PTZ cameras for select settings.

Digital Signage Ready (DSR)

22Miles’ Digital Signage Ready (DSR) is a portfolio of software and service bundles for quick setup and deployment of common digital signage experiences. DSR encompasses entry-level digital and interactive signage software and content management features for digital signage, touch screen, videowall, wayfinding, and meeting room booking applications. The DSR SaaS portfolio consists of a content management system with numerous application sets, widgets, and stylish templates. 22Miles’ DSR also includes white glove service to assist customers with project setup, training and deployment, content development, and data integration.

HOME

Lawo HOME makes IP setups as simple. Built into every current mc² console, and soon also into Lawo’s video and radio ranges, HOME provides automatic device detection with one-step assignments—complete with security features including access control, quarantining of unknown devices, and remote parameter tweaking. WAN (multi-site) and LAN (on-site) transport are supported. Leverage point-to-point connections with up to three stageboxes without additional network infrastructure.

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. 

Products were nominated by the manufacturers and chosen by online ballot. There are 13 categories, with two winners in each. 

Most Innovative Audio Hardware

ClearOne BMA 360
The ClearOne BMA 360 with Voice Lift and Camera Tracking technology is an advanced beamforming microphone array ceiling tile that delivers superior audio performance and deployment ease. It’s an ultra-wideband, frequency-invariant beamforming mic array with uniform gain response across all frequency bands. With 6G Acoustic Echo Cancellation (AEC) and FiBeam technology, conference participants experience natural and full-fidelity audio across all beams and within a single beam.

Shure Microflex Advance MXA710 Linear Array Microphone
The Shure Microflex Advance MXA710 Linear Array Microphone is designed for high-quality audio capture in premium AV conferencing environments. The sleek linear form factor allows for placement virtually anywhere in a meeting space including on a wall, around a display, on the ceiling, or in a conference room table. Available in two lengths and three colors, the MXA710 includes proprietary Shure IntelliMix DSP and Autofocus technology that provides all the processing needed for echo-free and noise-free conference audio.

Most Innovative AV Installation Accessory

C2G Retractable Universal Mount 4K HDMI Dongle Adapter Ring with Color Coded Mini DisplayPort, DisplayPort, and USB-C/C2G30029
C2G’s Retractable Universal 4K HDMI Dongle Adapter Ring is the perfect addition to any meeting space or wherever you need to be connected. The standard configuration includes the adapters to connect nearly any device to an in-room display while supporting up to a 4K video resolution. This adapter ring has color-coded HDMI to DisplayPort, Mini DisplayPort, and USB-C dongle adapters, as well as a customizable integrated pull tab. Backed by a lifetime warranty.

Tripp Lite DisplayPort to HDMI over Cat 6 Extender Kit, KVM Support, 4K 60 Hz, 4:4:4, PoC, HDCP 2.2, 230 feet (B127A-1A1-BDBH)
Tripp Lite's Transmitter/receiver kit extends a 4K signal via Cat 6 cable from a DisplayPort source to an HDMI display up to 230 feet away. Supports UHD resolutions up to 4K @ 60 Hz (4:4:4) for crystal-clear video. Power over Cable (PoC) technology provides power to either end via Cat 6 cable. DIP switch selection allows bi-directional IR or USB function for controlling the source. Compliant with the Federal Trade Agreements Act (TAA) for GSA Schedule purchases.

Most Innovative Collaboration Product

Middle Atlantic Products FlexView Conferencing Cart with HuddleSHOT FC
Another exciting product collaboration from Legrand AV! This solution from Middle Atlantic and Vaddio was meticulously designed by our engineers to include all the necessary components for a videoconferencing system in small to mid-sized collaboration spaces. The FlexView Conferencing Cart with HuddleSHOT FC makes installation and usability a breeze for installers and end users alike, not to mention specification with one part number. Did we mention it’s only one part number?

Shure Stem Ecosystem
The Shure Stem Ecosystem provides AV/IT users with the freedom to mix-and-match devices to create the perfect setup in any meeting, allowing anyone to easily design, install, and manage collaboration spaces. Stem Ecosystem solutions are backed by a robust platform of tools designed to make the process of adopting new technology, or leveraging existing technology, effortless. Stem Ecosystem solutions include wall and table speakerphones, a ceiling microphone, a dedicated control device, and a central hub.

Most Innovative Digital Signage Product

Epson America PowerLite 805F Full HD 1080p Ultra Short-Throw Laser Projector
Delivering exceptional illumination, Epson’s PowerLite 805F ultra-short throw laser projector offers low maintenance, intelligent software, and powerful projection to unleash impactful experiences practically anywhere. Leveraging Epson’s 3LCD laser technology, Full HD resolution and up to 5,000 lumens of brightness, it delivers up to 130 inches of true-to-life images with 360° placement to transform a variety of spaces. Built-in content management software and a compatible creative content projection app allows users to easily create custom content and amazing effects.

Sharp NEC Display Solutions ActiveScene
A game-changing solution that transforms glass into dynamic displays, Sharp NEC's ActiveScene makes use of previously underutilized space. With Avery Dennison’s Vela smart window film, ActiveScene can be retrofitted to any glass surface. Controlled electronically, the film becomes opaque on command, creating a canvas for a unique AV projection. ActiveScene can turn glass storefronts into advertising displays, conference room walls into privacy screens or video canvases, glass-fronted museum vignettes into engaging history lessons, and more.

Most Innovative Emerging Technology

AtlasIED Atmosphere Ambient Noise Compensation and X-ANS Sensor
The Atmosphere X-ANS ambient noise sensor from AtlasIED uses patented adaptive filtering technology rather than a microphone to accurately measure the noise level of a commercial environment and adjust automatically without picking up voice. The information is transmitted to the audio processor as data—not as voice programming—lending more enhanced security and volume adjustment accuracy than conventional ambient noise sensors that simply send audio to the processor for analysis and compensation.

Crestron Electronics Crestron and Microsoft Teams Panels
Crestron and Microsoft Teams Panels allow workers to easily navigate their day with a superior level of options, performance, and responsiveness. The ability to gather, share, and act on room scheduling data in real time helps keep employees and management efficient and compliant with reconfigured safety protocols.

Most Innovative IoT Product

Crestron Electronics Crestron XiO Cloud
Crestron XiO Cloud is a unifying cloud-based platform for remotely provisioning, monitoring, and managing devices across an enterprise or an entire client base. This revolutionary platform enables organizations to simultaneously configure and deploy an unlimited number of Crestron products, thereby reducing installation time by up to 90 percent.

Liberty AV Solutions Arranger
Introducing Arranger, an AV software server application from Liberty AV designed to configure and manage AVoIP endpoints and AV systems with easy-to-build user interfaces with no programing skills required. Just as important as the software is the powerful and reliable hardware host—Arranger is designed to fully leverage the powerful capabilities of all Digi IP hardware. One software platform to build, manage, and control all Digi IP and AV devices on a network for many vertical applications.

Most Innovative Mounting Solution

Chief Tempo Flat Panel Floor Support System (AVSFSS)
When installing AV into corporate environment today, installers are limited in the number of site visits and amount of personal contact they can have, making inspections and remediation difficult. Additionally, the request to increase collaboration with dual-display videoconferencing is on the rise. The low-profile Chief Tempo Flat Panel Floor Support System uses the floor instead of the wall to support displays, eliminating the need for wall inspection and remediation for time and cost savings across large rollouts.

rp Visual Solutions Wallmate T-UP
Wallmate T-UP is a single-panel on-wall mount from rp Visual Solutions that can be mounted on top of drywall, concrete, or block walls. It features an up-down swing with lift assist to access removable peripheral plates for easy equipment assembly and service. Wallmate T-UP supports displays of 75 to 100 inches and up to 250 pounds.

Most Innovative Signal Management Product

Vanco EVMX88PRO
The Vanco Evolution 4K 8x8 HDBaseT Audio and Video Matrix sends up to 8 HDMI signals to up to 8 HDBaseT outputs, with mirrored HDMI outputs for up to 16 total outputs. It transmits 4K @ 60Hz, 4:4:4, and HDR up to 131 feet/40 meters over Cat 6. It can also send audio or ARC to up to 8 zones via digital optical outputs.

VuWall TRx 3.1 Centralized Management Platform
TRx 3.1, VuWall’s next-gen platform, is unique in combining AV-over-IP distribution and advanced multi-video wall and KVM management. TRx is a unified centralized platform used to configure, manage, and distribute virtually any source type to any display with an easy-to-use drag-and-drop interface. TRx ensures interoperability in a multi-brand AV-over-IP infrastructure. TRx even allows users to easily create customized control panels to run on any mobile device, without any programming.

Most Innovative Streaming Product

PTZOptics PT-Superjoy-G1
PTZOptics' Superjoy camera control joystick offers serial and network-based control of PTZ cameras, allowing users to adjust pan, tilt, and zoom, and fine-tune settings including focus, iris/shutter, and red and blue gain. The Superjoy is configurable with up to 255 camera presets, including 9 push-button “quick presets.” It also features four customizable buttons that can be programmed to trigger “super presets,” sending commands via HTTP, UART, TCP, or UDP to practically any network-based device.

Visionary Solutions PacketAV Duet Wallplate Encoder
Visionary Solutions' new PacketAV Duet Wallplate Encoder is an HDMI over IP wall plate with built-in Bluetooth connectivity. The PacketAV Duet Wallplate Encoders provide powerful 4K UHD video and Dante/AES67 audio embedding/de-embedding, with internal VLAN tagging capability to separate audio and video network traffic as needed over a single gigabit Ethernet (PoE) port, now with built-in bi-directional Bluetooth wireless audio connectivity.

Most Innovative Videoconferencing Product

Mersive Solstice Conference
Solstice Conference is a new class of Bring Your Own Meeting (BYOM) room solutions from Mersive that delivers agnostic room conferencing and enhances collaboration between on-site and remote participants with Solstice’s rich, multi-participant content sharing. By leveraging the conferencing applications running on users’ laptops—including Zoom, Teams, and Webex—and providing wireless connectivity to the room display and audio-video peripherals, Solstice delivers a touchless, easy-to-use room system that is completely driven by users’ own devices.

Vaddio IntelliSHOT ePTZ USB Camera
Vaddio’s IntelliSHOT professional USB camera makes video collaboration and streaming classes easy and effortless. Whether auto-framing people around a conference table or tracking the classroom instructor, the IntelliSHOT ePTZ camera delivers stunning, foolproof performance. Free remote management and advanced auto-framing configuration allow integration partners to remotely fine-tune system performance for every environment. Its 30x zoom supports use in larger spaces. Room audio may be connected with the built-in audio mixer for an all-in-one videoconferencing system.

Most Innovative Video Display

LG Business Solutions USA LG Direct View LED Ultimate Business Display
Available for both indoor and outdoor installations, LG’s DVLED Ultimate Business Displays are designed to simplify the entire process of ordering, delivering, installing, and calibrating displays for a wide range of commercial applications. The new models come in 25 size configurations, from 81 inches to as large as 589 inches (49 feet), and aspect ratios in both 16:9 and 32:9 ultra stretch formats.

Samsung Electronics America The Wall, Model IWA
Engineered for longevity and configured for flexibility, Samsung's The Wall (IWA Series) makes a lasting impression in any business/retail environment. Its colossal screen measures in at over 1,000 inches, while remaining completely customizable in a variety of positions and easier than ever to install thanks to new wireless docking connections. Unmatched in brightness control, contrast, and color precision, The Wall is a one-of-a-kind microLED display that delivers top performance for a limitless entertainment experience.

Most Innovative Video Processing Product

Datapath Aetria
Aetria from Datapath allows integrators and end users to design and configure complex control room systems, including multiple video walls. Aetria’s power makes content sharing easy to control. This is an ambitious solution that integrates both the delivery process and the management of complex AV environments, making it suitable for small to very large installations. With built-in diagnostics and security, Aetria monitors all connected components to ensure smooth and secure operation.

Kramer VW-4
This video wall driver from Kramer presents a scalable and secure solution without the excessive cost. Designed for configurations from 2x2 to 8x8, one video input and four HDMI outputs deliver an easy-to-configure, scalable solution, negating the need for a 4x4 driver to create a 4x2 wall, equating to cost savings of up to 80 percent. The hardware-based solution and closed system increases reliability and security, with plug-and-play wired connectivity that requires no adjustments once in place.

Most Innovative Video Projection Solution

Da-Lite, a Brand of Legrand AV, Tensioned Designer Contour with Agility Battery Motor Option
Want the benefits of an electric screen and the flexibility of wire-free installation? Da-Lite's Agility battery motor option with the Tensioned Designer Contour or Designer Contour is ideal for no-fuss installations or retrofitting historic buildings. This lithium-ion battery motor option lasts over 200 cycles on a single charge via micro USB port, with wireless handheld remote operation and up to 16K-ready screen surfaces. Realize cost savings immediately as it is operational out of the box.

Sony Electronics VPL-GTZ380
Sony’s VPL-GTZ380 4K SXRD flagship projection system provides native DCI-4K resolution and extreme brightness. It complements Sony’s comprehensive laser projection lineup and combines powerful features and benefits. It delivers stunning imagery and an immersive viewing experience highlighted by 10,000 lumens brightness, 16,000:1 contrast, DCI-P3 wide color gamut, HDR support, quiet operation, and installation flexibility. The projector, compact for its class, boasts a superior visual experience at any distance and in varying lighting conditions.

The Tennessee State Museum, which opened in October 2018 on the corner of Rosa L. Parks Boulevard and Jefferson Street in Nashville, has already become a must-see attraction. Tracing its roots back to a museum opened by a portrait artist on the Nashville public square in 1817 and later to a state museum that consolidated World War I mementoes and other collections from the state, the Tennessee Historical Society and other groups, the current iteration of the Tennessee State Museum charges no admission fee and has become an important catalyst for the educational and cultural enrichment of Tennesseans and tourists alike.

Its mission is to procure, preserve, exhibit, and interpret objects that relate to the social, political, economic, and cultural history of Tennessee and Tennesseans. One of the largest museums in Nashville, it spans 137,000 square feet and has hosted hundreds of thousands of visitors since it opened.

A key component of the Tennessee State Museum is a flexible and feature-rich AV system that brings to life the history and stories it shares throughout its seven permanent exhibits and a rotating roster of temporary and seasonal exhibits. The museum additionally features a 200-seat Digital Learning and Outreach Center, and several common areas that host events, lectures, panel discussions, and film screenings.

“Particularly exciting is the way we tell these stories through sophisticated AV presentations,” said Ashley Howell, executive director of the Tennessee State Museum. “Each visitor learns differently—through seeing, hearing, and touching—and our audio-video presentations bring all of their senses into play as they explore artifacts and images, view documentaries and films, or interact with touchscreen displays.”

The museum won an Excellence in Development Award from the Nashville Chapter of the Urban Land Institute in September 2020 for its “design and construction, catalytic effect, standard of industry excellence, and environmental stewardship.” (YouTube link.) In addition to the museum’s executive team, the award recognized the efforts of the larger group responsible for the success, including Design & Production Inc. (D&P), a design, project management, and technology system integration firm for the museum market that was responsible for system fabrication; and Gallagher & Associates, a museum planning and design company that created all of the interpretive exhibits, graphics, and donor recognition efforts, and concepted all of the audio-visual experiences. Exhibit software at the Tennessee State Museum was developed by Cortina Productions, a creative media design and production company specializing in the museum field; and Northern Light Productions, creators of transformative experiences for brands, museums and public venues.

[ Museums Step Up Engagement with Next-Level Tech ] 

Sue Lepp, senior vice president at D&P, is gratified by visitors’ enthusiasm and critical acclaim the institution has received. She sees the facility as the blueprint for the modern museum.

“The vision of the Tennessee State Museum’s administration and the layout of the facility, combined with the important history-telling mission, made this a particularly rewarding project to work on,” said Lepp. “A museum experience should be entertaining as well as educational in order to draw repeat visitors and keep the interest of today’s tech-savvy audiences.”

Greg Matty, project executive at Gallagher & Associates, pointed out that this ambitious project was executed under a tight deadline, which made efficient teamwork essential.

“The timeframe for this project—to outfit a huge new building with state-of-the-art AV-driven exhibits—was only three years from start to finish, which was quite ambitious,” said Matty. “All parties pulled together to contribute value and deliver the world-class exhibits for visitors to enjoy and learn from for years to come.”

Next-Gen Exhibits Require High-Performing and Cost-Effective AV

Examples of the museum’s many interactive and visually engaging installations include the Tennessee Time Tunnel exhibit, which serves as the backbone for the entire permanent gallery. Its aim is to provide visitors a multi-layered experience with engaging media and thought-provoking interactive displays.

As visitors enter the Civil War and Reconstruction exhibit, they watch a five-minute video that sets the tone of the times before being plunged into an immersive experience that includes projected text and imagery, as well as transporting soundscapes. An interactive touch table with a map of Tennessee lets visitors access information and stories from the battlefield and beyond from each of the state’s 95 counties.

[ Enriching History with AV ] 

In the Tennessee Transforms exhibit, another interactive map enables visitors to learn about influences that have formed and continue to form the state’s cultural identity and people’s impression of the state. A theater within the museum hosts an interactive touch table and three large wall screens on which visitors can explore more than 100 cultural topics. The Digital Learning and Outreach Center provides presentation space and remote access to other museums, colleges, schools, and scholars.

To provide the necessary level of technical performance for these exhibits, the museum’s technical team chose a ZeeVee and Juniper Networks-driven Software Defined Video over Ethernet (SDVoE) AVoIP solution to distribute the wide array of AV content throughout the facility. For starters, the SDVoE AVoIP network is able to deliver high image quality with near-zero latency, which was essential for the interactive exhibits. The technology also gives the museum the flexibility to quickly scale to deliver content to additional endpoints as permanent and temporary exhibits call for more sources or displays to be connected.

Ambient sound is served to theaters and specialized exhibit subsystems via QSC’s Q-SYS Core 510 processor. Panasonic projectors and displays, 3M touchscreens, Dell computers, and BrightSign video players have been standardized across the various subsystems. A fiber backbone was implemented to distribute AV signals throughout the facility.

Ancillary equipment for custom touch tables included PQ Labs touch frames with Panasonic Videowall displays for interactivity. All source and signal distribution equipment is located in Middle Atlantic equipment racks.

ZeeVee encoders and decoders extend signals to more than 20 individual exhibit locations, many with multiple synced sources and displays. The entire system is networked via Juniper Networks EX4550 Ethernet switches. The user interface and unifying control system was custom programmed by D&P using Medialon Manager by 7thSense.

[ High-Tech Storytelling: Museums, Exhibits, and AV ] 

Of great importance to any public venue is the reliability and ease of maintenance in support of the visitor programs. The networked and digital character of the selected equipment provides a reliable and maintainable system that is able to operate year round on an automated schedule, with options to support special events after hours. Component failures can’t always be prevented, but the ability to troubleshoot remotely via the Medialon control system and network access to the Juniper, ZeeVee, and Q-SYS signal distribution systems lessens the burden on the educators and museum staff.

The Tennessee State Museum’s administrators, staff, and sponsors have all been impressed by the widespread positive attention the institution has generated and credit the role technology has played.

“We wanted to elevate the exhibits from passive to active experiences that highlight the eras, individuals, and artists who have contributed to the development of Tennessee’s identity within the state, and its role on the national and international stage,” said Howell. “Our partners on this project brought great enthusiasm along with impressive skill sets to create a dynamic AV system that enabled us to meet our goal.”

Click here to read more stories from the August 2021 issue of SCN.

More About Museum AV

High-Tech Storytelling: Museums, Exhibits, and AV • As the museum and exhibits market seeks new ways of telling stories and engaging the public, AV is playing a starring role.

Enriching History with AV • Museums are finding themselves in the position of having to balance the function of educating and entertaining visitors with very specific health and safety requirements. For help, museum directors are relying on integrators to assist them in creating experiences that are both safe and engaging.

Museums Step Up Engagement with Next-Level Tech • Museums are moving from "objects under glass" to destinations for interactive and immersive experiences. Learn how several centers are working to capture the interest of younger generations with innovative technology solutions that enable captivating storytelling.

Staying Engaged in a Contactless World • From the way patrons purchase tickets or interact with those at the help desk to the way exhibitions are laid out and designed, museums are currently planning for new operating procedures that will revolve around guest safety and contactless technology, while not diminishing the overall experience.

Recent Exhibits

Statue of Liberty Museum Brings History to Life with Panasonic Projection • Diversified and Panasonic developed and implemented an immersive projection system at New York's Statue of Liberty Museum to help deliver an engaging experience for visitors.

Museum of Science and Industry Welcomes Visitors with AV Stumpfl • The Museum of Science and Industry has reopened with a new look for its Pioneer Zephyr exhibition, complete with digital and analog projection solutions from AV Stumpfl.

Crafting an Immersive Soundscape • ACMI, Australia’s national museum of screen culture, uses Audinate’s Dante to create a soundscape that uses both localized sound and sound that exists as a background across the entire gallery space.

Mad Systems Blasts Off at the Temecula Children’s Museum • When the staff at the Temecula Children’s Museum wanted to create a new exhibit for the fictional Professor Pennypickle, they turned to Mad Systems who used projection mapping to allow visitors to experience time and space travel.

With the COVID-19 pandemic bringing about a renaissance in residential audiovisual solutions, the term “resimercial” may be more important now than ever to commercial integration firms.

On Sept. 1–3, audiovisual professionals will gather in Indianapolis, IN, for the 2021 CEDIA Expo–the first major in-person AV trade show in over 18 months. Event organizers plan to bring more than 10,000 home technology design and construction attendees together with 300+ exhibitors at one of the first in-person events in 2021 supporting the technology sector.

“We’re all eager to connect again on a human level and get back to face-to-face events as we celebrate everything we value as a community,” said Jason McGraw, Emerald Group vice president, CEDIA Expo and KBIS.

To increase the resimercial emphasis at CEDIA, event organizers have added the Innovation Hub, which will review data from research on cross-over and resimercial shifts. The Innovation Hub gives brands that have had success penetrating new market segments the opportunity to share insights and strategy.

[ CEDIA Expands Education Initiatives at 2021 Expo ] 

Additionally, UC and collaboration association IMCCA will assist CEDIA Expo with the development, organization, and moderation of content session discussions on unified communications and work-from-home topics.

Resimercial Innovations at CEDIA Expo 2021

Ahead of the show, manufacturers gave us a sneak peek at the resimercial products they’ll be demonstrating on the show floor.

Crestron Home Audio Conferencing System

Home offices remain viable alternatives to the corporate office as long as they have the appropriate technology infrastructure to re-create the office experience. The Crestron UC-MM30-R tabletop conference device is designed to be a perfect solution for such home office applications. The system pairs an enterprise-grade speakerphone, 7-inch touchscreen, and single-wire installation with native Crestron Home integration to provide a convenient conferencing and whole-house control companion in a sleek form factor.

Crestron: Booth #3600

Draper Acumen Recharge

Acumen Recharge is a wireless wall-mounted projection screen engineered to meet the demands of heavy use, yet still look elegant in modern interiors. The smooth, curved aluminum fascia fits in with any design aesthetic. The screen’s motor is powered by a lithium ion battery that runs for about 500 cycles before needing to be recharged. Tensioned and non-tensioned versions can also be PoE and can integrate into home control systems. Draper Acumen is backed by a seven-year warranty.

Draper: Booth #2212

[ CEDIA Expo 2021 Launches Innovation Hub ]

Middle Atlantic C3

Middle Atlantic continues to enhance the C3 series credenza with a wide variety of available finishes to match surrounding décor. High-pressure laminate (HPL) is a durable material used on many furniture products that has a dimensional behavior similar to wood, meaning it will expand and contract with humidity. HPL is recommended for any application in which durability and impact resistance are concerns, may be used for both vertical and horizontal surfaces. All of the HPL colors available from Middle Atlantic are from the design portfolio of leading HPL manufacturers.

Middle Atlantic: Booth #5347

Netgear M4250 AV Line of Network Switches

Built from the ground up for 1G AV over IP, the Netgear M4250 switches simplify multicast audio and video deployments. A new AV-centric user interface enables speedy configuration changes. Models with PoE+ and Ultra 90 PoE++ allow powering of AV endpoints and other devices. They are built with Netgear IGMP Plus, Auto-LAG, and Auto-Trunk for true out-of-the-box functionality, even with multiple switches. These switches come with a limited lifetime warranty and access to the company’s Pro AV Engineering Services team.

Netgear: Booth #5000

Planar DirectLight Ultra Series

Planar DirectLight Ultra Series LED video wall displays offer always-on, high-performance, high-resolution display experiences with pixel pitches ranging from 0.6 to 0.9 mm for mission-critical and resolution-dependent applications. It presents several display technology advancements that, in combination, deliver big performance. Planar DirectLight Ultra Series features models with microLEDs, off-board power supply, proprietary alignment technology, and the Planar WallDirector Video Controller (VC), with its corresponding video wall management software.

Planar: Booth #5044

Stealth Acoustics StingRay Speaker

The StingRay speaker family is completely sealed, with no exposed grilles or drivers to corrode or break down. The SR6, SR8, or SR430 speakers are at home in nearly any outdoor environment where durability and high performance are required. Outdoor speakers in the StingRay line are available in matte black and matte white, or they can be special ordered and custom painted to match any décor.

Stealth Acoustics: Booth #3353

SurgeX UPS + Isolation Transformer

The SurgeX UPS + Isolation Transformer is a complete power management solution featuring continuous power supply, line interactive technology, and power conditioning. Available in three models, the compact solution brings all the benefits of a large-format UPS to the rack, combined with a low-impedance isolation transformer to constantly filter and condition power. The device prevents electrical noise from affecting performance, delivering clean power to the source and stopping harmful harmonics from reaching sensitive loads.

SurgeX: Booth #4149

Leon Speakers Terra LuminSound TrLs50

Audio adds ambiance to walkways, patios, entrances, and other outdoor areas of commercial environments including restaurants, hotels, and recreational facilities. Lighting also enhances the atmosphere. The handcrafted Terra LuminSound TrLs50 speaker from Leon Speakers combines the two features in one stylish device. Available in six designer colors and with a ring of LED lighting around its perimeter, the slender, 13-inch tall, IP67-rated aluminum speaker cabinet blends in with a variety of regional landscapes.

Leon Speakers: Booth #4344

Vanco Certified Ultra High Speed HDMI Cable

Whether on a lobby video wall or home theater screen, content is king. Vanco’s Ultra High Speed HDMI Cables support resolutions of up to 8K @ 60 Hz and 4K @ 120 Hz with a 4:4:4 bit depth and both static and dynamic HDR formats. With features supporting widescreen 21:9 aspect ratios; VRR, ALLM, and QFT for next-gen gaming; and multiple immersive audio formats, Vanco’s Certified Ultra High Speed HDMI Cables can deliver the content for any cutting-edge video application, according to the company.

Vanco: Booth #1407

Sony PL-GTZ380 Projector

Come by the Sony booth at CEDIA to experience the new VPL-GTZ380 projector with native 4K image expression like you’ve never seen before. Powered by the X1 Ultimate processor for projectors, a super-high-contrast 10,000-lumen Z-Phosphor laser light source, and DCI-P3 wide color space, this projector can make your clients’ ultimate home theater vision a reality.

Sony: Booth #2800

Register for CEDIA Expo 2021

Read more stories from the August 2021 issue of SCN.

Racks and mounts are a small but critical part of any pro AV installation.

“Choosing the right rack or cabinet size for a project is important,” said Mike McCormick, senior regional sales manager at AtlasIED. “Not only is it time-consuming to try to fit equipment in a rack that is undersized for a job, but cable pathways may become overcrowded and overheating could occur. Integrators should choose racks that are large enough to provide appropriate ventilation for the type and amount of gear, as well as adequate room for organized cable structure.”

In addition to saving time, choosing the appropriate mount or rack can save money. “Ease of specification, ordering, and installation are important factors when choosing a high-quality mount because time is money for installers,” said Tony Caruso, product manager, Chief. “The right online tools, resources, and easy-to-find product information are essential whether specifying a wall mount, monitor arm mount, cart, or video wall installation.”

[ The Integration Guide to Displays and Mounts ]

“It’s essential to think about long-term serviceability when selecting a mount, too—ensuring that the display, behind-display storage and small AV components can be quickly accessed for maintenance or upgrades,” Caruso added.

Peerless-AV director of business development Megan Zeller advises integrators to factor the mount into the equation from the beginning. “Even the most thought-out installations come with an array of last-minute complications,” she said. “Having a reliable mount—from a reliable manufacturer—is so crucial for integrators to ensure they avoid any installation or future issues that will create an increase in cost. Installers should use qualified wall mounts that allow for an easy and quick installation process and can handle any last-minute on-site challenges, like uneven wall structures. [This] will end up saving them, as well as the customer, time and money.”

Ensuring integration firms are working with a reliable manufacturer is of the utmost importance, according to Rob Brunett, SnapAV’s product manager for infrastructure products. “When determining which rack or mount to buy, look for manufacturers who confidently stand behind their products with lifetime warranties and generous return policies,” he advised.

[ Considerations for Mounting Large-Format Displays ] 

Choosing the right mount or rack from the right manufacturer is critical to a successful installation. SCN takes a look at the latest products available from manufacturers.

Peerless-AV Seamless Kitted Series

Peerless-AV’s Seamless Kitted Series Mounting Systems are designed exclusively for leading direct view LED display manufacturers. These slim, space-saving mounts come equipped with easy-hang hardware, a lightweight aluminum frame, and integrated cable management. The unique modular designs allow for unlimited video wall display configurations, as well as height and depth adjustments. To ensure easy installation and high-quality customer support, Peerless-AV offers start-to-finish support through the Seamless dvLED Video Wall Integration Program.

AtlasIED Texas Tough

Texas Tough is a premier series of showcase equipment racks from AtlasIED offering stylish design and visual appeal in multiple heights, from 20RU to 45RU, and depths of 25, 30, and 35 inches. Texas Tough racks incorporate built-in device fault notification and are available with customizable crowns for integrator branding, support contact, or other quick-reference information.

[ Innovations in Racks and Mounts Provide Quicker and Easier Installations ]

MantelMount MM700

The MantelMount MM700 Pro Pull Down TV Mount is designed for mounting displays up to 115 pounds and up to 90 inches. The MM700—with 26 inches of vertical travel and up to a 60° swivel—offers features including heavy-duty construction (3 mm steel), enhanced stabilization, adjustable stops, auto-straightening, and a built-in sound bar attachment.

Snap One Strong Carbon Series Mounts

Strong Carbon Series Mounts are engineered with the strength and durability to tackle any install. The Carbon Series is available in a range of styles to optimize viewing. Installer-centric features like post-install leveling, integrated wire management, roll adjustments, and locking pull cords with magnetic ends ensure a quick and dependable deployment. Every Carbon Series Mount is UL certified for a secure installation.

Chief Tempo Flat Panel Support System with Dual-Display Accessory

The need for a rapid deployment, flexibility, and enhanced collaboration that leverages two displays in corporate AV installations is more important than ever. Integrators can meet these challenges with Chief’s Tempo and the new Dual-Display Accessory (AVA1101). The Tempo approach uses the floor instead of walls to support displays and eliminates the need for wall inspection and remediation, resulting in significant cost and time savings. It also limits site visits and personal contact during a project.

B-Tech BT8312

The BT8312 is a slim pop-out mount ideally suited for close-to-the-wall and recessed LCD video wall applications. The mount’s pop-out features a patent-pending soft opening function; following a light push, this feature ensures a controlled and unassisted outward movement of the mount, which protects display bezels during servicing by staying in alignment throughout the opening and closing process.

Middle Atlantic Forward Preconfigured BGR

Middle Atlantic offers an AV foundation built for tomorrow’s speed. The Forward accessories and options included with the Forward Preconfigured BGR were hand-selected by Middle Atlantic product experts with crucial input from customers. The result is a single part number aimed at helping integrators get the job done in a fraction of the time, with everything needed for an optimized foundation to deliver the ultimate AV experience.  

Click here to read more stories from the July 2021 issue of SCN.

More About Racks and Mounts

The Evolution of Racks and Mounts • How are racks and mounts increasingly meeting the needs of specific applications? Is the industry moving more toward racks and mounts being bundled into kits for a streamlined sales experience, or are custom, application-specific solutions more in demand?

Considerations for Mounting Large-Format Displays • Large-format displays are becoming increasingly popular—here's what integrators and technology managers need to know about mounting large-format displays.

Time Is On Your Side • Often, we consider the economizing that has sharpened our work as a breathless, exhausting, and sometimes dangerous result of our industrial and profit-based society. But one area where that fine-tuning has been of incredible benefit to the AV industry is in installation efficiency—it is much quicker to install racks and mounts today than even a few years ago.

Holding It Up • Racks and mounts are the literal backbone of the industry. They hold up all of the more glamorous AV equipment, and we often forget to acknowledge how easy (or difficult) a mount can make an install.

Racks and Mounts That Improve Installation Efficiency • Whether it’s by modularity, surge protection, digital tools, or custom configurations, integrators’ preferred methods of service for these critical building blocks of every installation continue to expand to modern needs. Here’s a rundown of some of the latest offerings.

When it comes to maximizing the potential of your systems, there’s a simple place to start: power. Today’s power conditioning solutions do so much more than just protect your deployments from surges and ensure peak performance from your high-end gear. Especially in these times, when staff isn’t always available to assess technical difficulties, the ability to perform a remote reboot from anywhere can be indispensable. 

We’ve gathered a selection of the newest products from top brands that can elevate the foundation of even the most sophisticated systems. 

Furman Elite 15 PFi

For over 40 years, Furman has developed AC power products for the most demanding audio, video, and broadcast professionals. Though the need for pristine AC power is nothing new, the Elite-15 Power Factor i's technology and its unique implementation are certainly groundbreaking.

The extreme AC demands encountered in the professional audio-video arena have required technological developments far in excess of typical home theater/audiophile power products. In studios, live sound, and broadcast facilities, breakdown is unacceptable. Equipment failure or poor performance is costly.

Today's power lines are plagued with RF and EMI noise. When connecting sensitive equipment to a power outlet, AC noise couples into your system's critical components. This AC noise masks low-level signals and cripples performance. This low-level content is critical because it relays the crucial harmonics and ambience in audio, as well as the depth and clarity in video. With Furman's Linear Filtering Technology, televisions, projectors, media players, amplifiers, and processors are fed by linearly filtered AC power. This dramatically reduces noise, ensuring consistent peak operation regardless of load conditions or the time of day.

Middle Atlantic Products RackLink

A quality AV experience depends first and foremost on being able to keep all AV systems up and running. It’s no secret digital devices freeze. So often the solution is simply a hard power reset. With Middle Atlantic’s RackLink, users can remotely turn an outlet on and off from a computer, mobile device, control system, or cloud service without physically going on site. RackLink also allows for continuous monitoring and logging of all power and environmental events within a system and will even let you know if things don’t seem right via text or email alerts. 

Occasionally, the longevity of your AV System hinges on elements outside of your control like heat and humidity. The Premium+ PDU with RackLink has a sensor option that monitors temperature and humidity, and it is possible to connect up to 32 individual sensors to monitor temperature and humidity throughout an entire system. RackLink also features a multiple IP autoping recovery technology for optimal system performance by constantly checking for an internet network connection and rebooting the outlet automatically if the network connection is down.

Panamax VT1512-IP

The Panamax VT1512-IP is a BlueBOLT-enabled, slim-form-factor, vertical-rack power conditioner and power sequencer. The VT1512-IP is a full-featured power conditioner providing protection and filtration for maximum longevity and performance of connected equipment. The VT1512-IP allows remote reboot of 12 individually controlled outlets, as well as the ability to monitor energy use, set alerts, program scheduled commands, and network pings with conditioner reboots. For non-cloud applications, the VT1512-IP has an embedded webpage for control and programming, or you can use a LAN for secure control via an ELAN or other third-party control systems.

Panamax remote management is designed to help technology managers be more efficient, cost effective, and proactive, which increases value to customers while increasing profitability. Tech managers are able to manage their install locations from anywhere in the world. Being able to reboot locked up devices that are on the network is an opportunity to better serve clients, as well as a possible opportunity for re-occurring revenue. The ability to monitor the integrity of the power and ping devices on a network and tie that into a conditional reboot is invaluable for tech managers.

RoseWater SB20

Power is the foundation for all that we do—especially in mission-critical applications. RoseWater’s SB20 Energy Management system (the Hub) ensures critical systems never go down and integrated products are always protected.

The Hub combines industrial-grade energy management tools into one platform that provides power conditioning at a 120V/60Hz sine wave 100 percent of the time. This level of power conditioning means that the microprocessor-laden products installed will operate at peak performance and last longer. The integrated UPS has a zero transfer time with a robust battery backup (28kWH minimum) to ensure mission-critical applications will ride out any power failures. The Hub can take two direct lightning hits and still operate to specs, although those affected varistors will need replacement. 

In most instances, users will only be aware of any power anomaly occurrences when reviewing the online logs or looking directly at the Hub’s video panel. With remote management, tech managers are notified if there is an issue or outage. The remote management portal allows you to see the power quality on the input side, view battery run time, and manage/shed critical loads with instantaneous load recalculation.

The SB20 offers an integration solution in one pre-assembled, configured, industrial-grade platform. RoseWater works with tech managers to correctly spec the right-sized Hub, which is installed by RoseWater’s national installation team. 

Tech managers will have peace of mind knowing that the control room, ERP, security systems, medical applications, or other mission-critical system is safe with RoseWater’s SB20 at the foundation. 

SurgeX Squid

SurgeX Squid is designed to eliminate the need for integrators to install multiple products to build a proper power foundation for AV systems. Squid features an array of power quality features into a single compact chassis, combining both AC and DC outlets with advanced surge protection, power conditioning, power management, and analytical software. With its compact yet multifaceted form factor, Squid can streamline support with a flexible and complete power management solution well suited for any AV installation.

Squid’s remote monitoring and predictive analytics features take the guesswork out of protecting and conditioning electrical systems. Squid actively monitors all incoming power and the health of connected equipment, providing tech managers with a detailed report of potential issues. Then, technicians can remotely diagnose and resolve issues remotely without the end user ever knowing there was an issue. Squid comes equipped with preventative maintenance capabilities such as automatic reboots of connected equipment to keep systems online. This reduces overall system downtime and potential customer service calls, and off-site monitoring triggers allow technology managers to resolve many of the issues that would normally require a site visit, which is especially valuable in today’s remote landscape.  

Squid is the first SurgeX product that works globally, regardless of voltage requirements, allowing tech managers of international companies to spec the same product into offices worldwide. With the space-saving design, preventive maintenance, and power protection capabilities of Squid, end users can be assured that their system is always ready when they need it most. 

Athletics has always been a major part of campus life at Point Park University in Pittsburgh, but this year the school upped the ante, diversifying its existing athletics program with the addition of its first-ever esports training facility.

The aim was to build a varsity team that would train to compete in the National Association of Collegiate Esports Rocket League Fall Season and League of Legends, but would also receive the benefit of a solid education in matters related to esports, AV technology and computer networking.

“The most important objectives for us were centered around building a facility that supported the learning and growing of the students and program. We really wanted to build a space that fit the needs of both the coaches and the students for practice and competitions,” explained Chris Gaul, head coach of varsity esports at Point Park University.

[The Integration Guide to Esports]

“Additionally, we wanted the facility to be used as a showpiece and a recruiting tool for the esports program and university as a whole. Having a solid center for any program is exceptionally important,” he added.

Learning by Design

Alongside enabling competitive gaming, the esports training arena had to facilitate hands-on education for students enrolled in the program. The curriculum brings students behind the scenes to learn about back-of-house processes and supporting technologies in a pro environment—from AV streaming and casting to event planning, graphic design, and videography.

Faculty members overseeing the esports program wanted a seamless yet simple educational setup that could enhance student learning.

To get the project rolling, the university’s physical plant remodeled a former yoga/Pilates studio to suit the project’s requirements. The media services and IT departments collaborated to deploy a new high-speed data network and incorporate multimedia lines within the 1,450-square-foot room.

Local integrator RPC Video was then called in to carry out a full design and install of a high-performance AV system for the esports facility. To provide the kind of system performance required for competitive gaming, the design team opted for Extron XTP Systems, along with an SMP 111 streaming media processor and Pro Series control products.

Steve Obenreder, sales manager at RPC Video, recounted some of the most pressing design considerations on the project. “We had to reuse an existing space, a former aerobics exercise studio. This room was open, but the ceiling height was 8 feet or so. We knew we needed a wide-bandwidth signal path as the basis of this design. We first looked to AVoIP as the solution, but that didn’t allow us the backplane bandwidth we needed. Extron was an excellent partner in outlining their approach to signal routing and bandwidth, and the XTP system they suggested is just what we needed.”

Using the XTP system, RPC was able to achieve wide-bandwidth signals within the system. Further, there were outputs available to send signals to other future locations—either directly or over fiber at higher data rates, or using NAV AVoIP to move signals around campus.

Creative Approach

“After further discussions with Extron, we realized that the NAV AVoIP approach would not allow the bandwidth needed at the system core. Extron came up with some very creative ways to redesign the system using XTP to give us that signal core,” said Obenreder.

A custom-configured Extron XTP II 3200, 10-inch TouchLink Pro control surface, HD Pro hybrid fiber cables, SMP 111 streaming processor, IPCP control processor, DSC scalers, HDMI Ultra cable, and accessories comprise the core of the signal path. Digital signage and gameplay presentation in the room are handled by 75- and 86-inch Panasonic EQ Series displays.

“RPC has put many Panasonic displays out in real-world signage applications over the last several years, and we have had great results with them. Like Extron, Panasonic has been a helpful partner, and along with a great product, that relationship makes project work that much easier,” added Obenreder.

The esports training room houses 16 gaming stations, each with a custom Intel Core i7 10700K 8C/16T 5.1 GHz processor and 144 Hz Asus ROG Strix XG279Q 27-inch HDR gaming monitor. The Extron XTP II CrossPoint 3200 modular matrix switcher with 50 Gbps digital backplane provides instantaneous switching for the gaming station feeds.

Using this setup, coaches, team members, and local spectators are able to watch the action take place at any gaming station on displays that are mounted on the left, right, and center walls. Additional displays include 24-inch monitors at the instructor station as well as in the adjacent equipment room that houses the AV switching system.

Chief Fusion series wall mounts secure the displays, as well as AtlasIED Strategy series speakers in black to blend with the dark ceiling. A compact Middle Atlantic ERK rack for equipment and a Juice Goose SBN series UPS serves up efficient power control.

“Chief and Middle Atlantic are no strangers to maximizing utility in unique spaces. Our engineers are driven by this kind of innovation, and it’s exciting to see our solutions come to life at the intersection of esports and AV,” said Karen Smidt, director of product marketing at Legrand AV, parent company of the Chief and Middle Atlantic brands.

“The system at its core is common: a matrix routing frame with a very good selection of copper and fiber I/O cards,” added Obenreder. “The main challenges were centered around budget and space. The main space for competitions was sufficient, but the equipment room was shared with the team as a storage and small staging area, so fitting there was a bit of a challenge.”

As with many projects of this nature, time was also a factor. “Extron delivered all the specified equipment in the timeliest way, and we did as much of the installation as possible: wire installations, display mounts up, ceiling speakers installed, XTP system pre-programmed, and so on. But, the gaming computers and monitors were a little slow in arriving,” he said.

They did arrive, though, and the RPC Technical Service team went back in and finalized the system, tested it, and trained the new esports coach. “The system is in use, and the team has already been involved in competitions,” said Obenreder.

Full System Control

For the coach, the TLP Pro 1025T TouchLink Pro touchpanel installed at the instructor station ensures control across a variety of AV system operations.

The touchpanel works with two rack-mounted IP Link Pro control processors to manage all of the major components in the system. Three AV LAN ports on the Extron IPCP Pro 360 processor allow control of the equipment while safeguarding against potential intrusion or interference, while the IPL Pro S3 processor enables control of the observation displays over the university network. The processors also provide application controls, such as AV system and device power, audio level adjustment, and streaming/recording controls.

Using the Extron SMP 111 recording and streaming media processor meant matches could also easily be captured, distributed, and streamed to online platforms like Twitch and YouTube.

“The final system design fulfilled the needs of our student athletes because it allowed the coach to coordinate seamless and efficient practices. The facility was designed to be a tool—not only for the coach, but for the teams to improve unimpeded. It does that exceptionally well,” said Gaul.

With the rapid global rise of esports courses and varsity gaming programs across higher education, particularly in the United States, Point Park has no doubt cemented a much more competitive learning environment for its students, who can now capitalize on this trend.

2020 has been a tough year for pro AV installations, with integrators forced to work around COVID-19 restrictions while crafting personalized experiences for their clients. This year, SCN once again celebrates the firms that went above and beyond to create ultimate user experiences.

Watch the video below to see all of SCN's 2020 Installs of the Year.

Thrivent Financial Corporate HQ

Minneapolis, MN

AVI Systems partnered with Thrivent Financial on its eight-story, 264,000-square-foot headquarters in Minneapolis. With a capacity for more than 1,000 employees, the new building includes a café and bank, over 200 meeting rooms, and several common areas, boardrooms, and presentation rooms. AVI helped Thrivent transform its approach to audiovisual equipment, particularly for its collaboration spaces and meeting rooms. With a focus on enabling workflows, both remote and on-site, AVI aligned technology with employees’ expectations and use cases. AVI used products by Crestron, Logitech, Shure and others. 

911 Emergency Operations Center

Peoria, IL

IAS Technology was called in to upgrade the failing AV system and related technology at a 911 Emergency Operations Center in Peoria. The IAS team installed two Barco 4K Laser projectors with edge-blending driven by a tvONE CORIOmaster2 in a process that resulted in less than one hour of downtime for the center’s operations over a two-day period. The upgrade allows employees to see GPS mapping/tracking, call data, and other critical information at each individual workstation and on the high-resolution video wall.

Read more: https://www.avnetwork.com/news/tvone-coriomaster2-makes-us-debut-in-critical-display-application

Dubai International Airport

Dubai, United Arab Emirates

Dubai International’s new Airport Operations Control Centre (AOCC) houses several teams managing airport operations 24/7. Integrator Aesthetix was appointed to design and integrate a state-of-the-art audiovisual solution for the AOCC control room. The objective was to provide a user-friendly, flexible video wall solution for operators to view live visuals and data for monitoring and collaborative decision-making. Aesthetix selected RGB Spectrum’s MediaWall V 4K display processor to power the AOCC’s 55-screen video wall. The AOCC MediaWall-based video wall centralizes an extensive volume of visuals and data to enhance situational awareness. Operators can collaboratively view information for daily management and planning.

Read more: https://www.avnetwork.com/news/dubai-international-airport-manages-operations-with-rgb-spectrum-mediawall-v

Henry Ford Detroit Pistons Performance Center

Detroit, MI

Seeking to encourage a community-oriented space as part of the City of Detroit’s revitalization efforts, the Detroit Pistons moved their training facility and headquarters to downtown Detroit and selected New Era Technology as the AV integrator for the project. The 185,000-square-foot, four-story facility houses indoor and outdoor spaces for public and private events. New Era ensured state-of-the-art systems that fit within budget constraints and a limited timeline. New Era’s contributions included audiovisual solutions for spaces including the draft room, practice gym, team room, locker room, hydrotherapy space, conference rooms, executive and administrative offices, and a broadcast media studio. The solutions help contribute to pre-season, mid-season, playoffs, and post-season, and further the city’s mission of bringing the Detroit community together.

Wells Fargo, Hudson Yards

New York, NY

HB helped Wells Fargo develop and install an engaging video wall experience at its new Hudson Yards office that brings beauty, peace, and a sense of calm to those who work there. Working together with the Wells Fargo team and architects, the integration firm set out to bring nature and serenity into the workplace with the video installation. HB installed a 30-foot-tall by 6-foot-wide Planar DirectLight X LED video wall with a 1.5mm pixel pitch and sent a video production team to picturesque locales in New York, San Francisco, Yosemite State Park, California’s Big Sur, and several other locations to capture custom 8K content that would suit the unique size and aspect ratio of the wall. The end result exceeded expectations and truly brought the magnificence of our world into Wells Fargo’s office.

University of Pennsylvania - Law School/Silverman Hall

Philadelphia, PA

Penn Law’s premier building, Lewis Hall (now Silverman Hall), opened in February of 1900. The building initially had formal “reading rooms” at opposite ends of its second floor where generations of Penn Law students studied. Over time, the students contributed to the growing collection of reading materials—an undertaking that eventually resulted in the creation of the Biddle Law Library. The library was moved in 1994, and the reading rooms were repurposed as large classrooms (renovations completed in 1998). Twenty-two years later, these classrooms have been renovated again. AV integrator Solutionz and AV consultancy firm KMK Technologies brought new life to these spaces through a balance of restored architectural elements and innovative audio-video technologies from companies including Audio-Technica, Christie Digital, Extron, JBL Pro, and Mersive.

Madame Tussauds Hollywood

Hollywood, CA

Designed by OpenEye Global, the Jimmy Kimmel Experience at Madame Tussauds is a fully immersive film set that transports guests to Jimmy Kimmel Live to become part of the magic of television. Kimmel stands front and center to greet guests, who usually stop to get a selfie with him. As fans move through the experience, they are able to participate in a taped “Pedestrian Question” interview, and then it’s showtime! Each guest becomes the star of the show, enjoying 15 seconds of fame as their interview is broadcast on the big screen for all to see. Following their on-screen debut, guests make their way through the set for more interactive photo opportunities, including taking a seat in the coveted director’s chair, getting a feel for what it’s like behind the scenes as they head backstage, and more.

Akamai Technologies World Headquarters

Cambridge, MA

The largest cybersecurity company in Massachusetts has consolidated multiple campus locations into a 19-story, 453,000-square-foot headquarters bursting with audiovisual technology integrated by McCann Systems. Opened in late 2019, Akamai’s headquarters features architectural details such as high ceilings and an abundance of natural light. McCann Systems was the perfect AV partner in its willingness to echo these details in the integration of the unified communication systems for Akamai. In addition to building, installing, and commissioning the audiovisual systems, McCann Systems offered on-site managed services. The conference room technology and digital signage were designed through a partnership between ACT Associates and the AV team at 145 Broadway, with help from McCann Systems.

Helios Education Foundation

Phoenix, AZ

Helios Education Foundation, an organization that helps foster advanced student preparedness and academic advancement, recently built a 30,000-square-foot headquarters in Phoenix with the goal of enhancing community involvement and education by outfitting the facility with advanced technologies. Teaming with The Sextant Group, now called NV5, Spinitar worked with Helios to build a modern architectural space with integrated cutting-edge technologies. The AV infrastructure was built using various products from key manufacturers including Crestron and NEC Display. Sextant created a culturally relevant architectural technology design that encourages collaboration, information sharing, and educational growth. Using technology as the highway between building and community, Helios has established an educational presence in the community to help pave the way for future generations.

Globe Life Field – Home of the Texas Rangers

Arlington, TX

Diversified partnered with the Texas Rangers to outfit their new stadium, Globe Life Field, and deliver an enhanced fan experience. The stadium’s seating bowl features the first surround sound system installed in a ballpark, which delivers an energizing concert-level sound experience. Twenty-two AV closets throughout the massive stadium support several hundred AV devices and IPTV endpoints in the concourses and suites, keeping fans engaged in the excitement no matter where they are in the stadium. To transport the action on the field to fans, Diversified installed a comprehensive broadcast system complete with a SMPTE ST 2110 video production control room. The install features loudspeakers from JBL, Fulcrum, Community Loudspeakers, and Electro-Voice; a DSP from QSC; control by Crestron, QSC, and Apple iPads; and an audio console by Yamaha.

Foreign Affairs Security Training Center

Virginia

The State Department’s Foreign Affairs Security Training Center, built to integrate 11 disparate facilities, is a multipurpose complex dedicated to the ongoing training of 2,000 special agents—plus 10,000 additional State Department and U.S. foreign service community engineers, technicians, and security professionals. The construction phase lasted three years, during which time Bridges SI engineered and implemented an enterprise IP system for the entire facility. The install included hundreds of networked audio and camera distribution components mounted throughout multiple areas, all connected via a secure fiber infrastructure. Types of spaces included a smokehouse, rappelling wall, live-fire shoot house, explosives range, tactical maze, and mock urban environment. Innovations from AtlasIED, Middle Atlantic, QSC, and Samsung were used in the installation.

Color Trail at 44 Montgomery Street

San Francisco, CA

In this San Francisco office tower, Color Trail—a reactive light installation by ESI Design, an NBBJ studio—turns the lobby into a canvas, with passersby serving as the paintbrushes. Spanning the length of the lobby, the installation reacts to the movement of people, filling the space with watercolor-esque light. As people walk through the lobby, they become digital paintbrushes, trailing a colored path across the display. As more people enter the lobby, the media surface fills with brushstrokes, becoming more colorful and dynamic. When two people cross paths, the colors mix and swirl around each other, creating new colors and unexpected patterns. The media supports two different “brush” types: a soft-edged, fluid Organic Brush and a hard-edged, tightly bound Geometric Brush.

The Cove @ UCI

Irvine, CA

The Cove @ UCI, home to UCI Beall Applied Innovation, is a 100,000-plus-square-foot facility in UCI Research Park. The university teamed up with Digital Networks Group, an Avidex Company, for the design-build audiovisual integration project. Every aspect of the facility was constructed with technology, collaboration, and innovation in mind. The cornerstone of the integration project is the 180-degree, 134-foot-long Planar/Leyard dvLED video wall that provides high-impact, seamless content driven by Hiperwall. The Beach is a purpose-built event space complemented by cutting-edge audio systems, confidence monitors, cameras, and systems for recording and live event streaming, videoconferencing, and room controls.

Ron Clark Academy

Atlanta, GA

The Middle Ages meets Harry Potter with a 52-foot-diameter, circular NanoLumens LED screen installed on the ceiling at the Ron Clark Academy by Baker Audio Visual. The system is a performance and educational aid for the school’s students and educators, who come from all over the world to participate in events and trainings. When not being used as an educational tool, the screen displays scenes of dragons flying overhead and landing on the rim and looking down into the room. A robust QSC sound system is hidden discreetly within the space’s Gothic columns to supply voice and program audio reinforcement. The backbone of the system consists of a Show Stage 4x4k display processor, Crestron Control processor, QSC amplifiers/DSP, Datapath server, and more.

Middle Atlantic Products, a brand of Legrand AV, announced its lineup for Integrated Systems Europe (ISE) 2020. 

At ISE 2020 on the Legrand AV stand, Middle Atlantic's Forward family of installation solutions—designed to deliver greater system reliability, efficiency, and flexibility to the rack—will be making its European debut, complete with a new 3D interactive touch screen tool for demonstrations.

In addition, the company will highlight its High Power DC Power Distribution Series, which is now shipping from local inventory in Europe with region-specific power plugs.

[Free Download: The North American Guide to ISE 2020]

"We're committed to providing more solutions and support for our European customers, and ISE provides us with a fantastic opportunity to demonstrate that," said Tim Troast, vice president of product management at Legrand AV — Middle Atlantic. "Since its introduction, our Forward family has generated a lot of buzz in the region, and we can't wait for integrators to see the speed it brings to their installations. In addition, there's been high demand for our High Power DC Power Distribution Series, which we've answered with European-specific models—available locally for shorter lead times. With all this and more at the booth, it's shaping up to be a great show."

For more information or to see the products in action, visit Legrand AV on Stand 2-C50 at ISE 2020.

To read the latest ISE 2020 news, visit avnetwork.com/tag/ise.

No matter how advanced AV equipment becomes, it is useless if the electricity powering it is erratic and surge-ridden, resulting in inconsistent performance and even outright failure if the sensitive circuits within get fried. This is why power conditioning products such as Uninterruptible Power Supplies (UPSes) are so central to building reliable AV infrastructure operations—especially when it comes to sustaining mission-critical environments. 

AV Technology spoke with leading manufacturers of power conditioning products to learn how their latest breed of connected solutions are helping to increase the uptime and longevity of AV equipment—and making tech managers’ lives easier, too.

The Latest Trends

According to the experts, remotely monitoring/controlling power supply quality, extending power conditioning to every space that uses AV equipment, and managing electrical voltages in all aspects are the big trends influencing power conditioning products today.

"The latest trends are IP monitoring, control, and network pings," said Christos Desalernos, product manager, power, at Nortek Security & Control. "The ability to monitor the integrity of the power can help the tech managers be proactive if they see a voltage abnormality. With cloud-based monitoring systems such as Panamax’s BlueBOLT, you have power history that you can take to your client and in turn possibly take it to the utility company so they can rectify the situation.”

"The rise of telecommuting and remote offices/workers has placed increased emphasis on conference spaces, and AV and collaboration systems," added Lauren Simmer, director of marketing for AMETEK Electronic Systems Protection’s SurgeX. Essentially, every single space that uses AV equipment requires power conditioning to keep it safe—no matter how small.

“Within the commercial AV industry, there’s increasing concern not only for over-voltage but under-voltage as well,” said Nyron Kahrim, applications specialist for Middle Atlantic Products’ Legrand AV Division. “This is a trend that’s born from the industry’s evolution from analog to digital devices, which are very sensitive to power variations and require extremely clean power.” 

What Tech Managers Are Asking For

Just as important as the trends driving power conditioning technology are the needs of the AV technical directors who use this equipment. So what are they asking for?

“Middle Atlantic is seeing more growth in our UPS line due to tech managers wanting the benefit of not only backup during power outages but also a clean power supply and, subsequently, a longer device life cycle,” Kahrim said. “They also want a system that can log and deliver data on power anomalies and system responses, so they can stay informed about the health of their AV systems.”

Tech managers are also interested in “power foundations.” These are electrical supply systems to AV equipment that have power conditioning already built in, ensuring that everything that gets plugged is protected from voltage issues. "To protect their equipment and avoid system downtime, tech managers are prioritizing power foundations,” Simmer said.

Remote power monitoring is proving popular with tech managers, who find that “the ability to ping devices on a network and tie that into a conditional reboot is invaluable," Desalernos said. "They can contact their client letting them know that there was a network issue and that it has been resolved; although, in most cases the client was not aware there was an issue. Now the tech manager has the client on the phone and they can ask if there are any other services that they need at that time—thus, a soft sales pitch." 

Products That Stand Out

The companies who spoke to AVT for this article all sell power conditioning products for AV. So we asked them what features made their offerings stand out from the competition.

“Middle Atlantic’s patented Series Protection power distribution solution uses a sophisticated microprocessor that more closely monitors voltage,” Kahrim said. “If a power anomaly occurs, it will turn the device off when voltage exceeds plus or minus 1 percent of the predefined threshold and turn it back on only when it’s within that very limited voltage window.”

“Middle Atlantic is also a pioneer in automatic power restoration, saving the AV tech manager the extra task of manually turning on systems that were shut down,” he added. “Our intelligent power capabilities are also an option in our UPS units, which are being used more frequently for power conditioning.” 

According to Nortek Security & Control’s Desalernos, "Panamax and Furman are the leaders in mission-critical surge suppression and design comprehensive filters that filter out all AC line noise that comes from the utility companies and noise from devices within the system. What sets us apart is that our devices are also compatible with LAN (Local Area Network) control. This allows our products to be specified in high-security applications where cloud-based systems are unacceptable.”

Meanwhile, AMETEK Electronic Systems Protection’s SurgeX products “combine true surge elimination, EMI/RFI filtration, and unsurpassed diagnostic intelligence to help tech managers diagnose, monitor, and protect the sensitive and critical systems of their business,” Simmer said. “SurgeX’s patented Advanced Series Mode technology eliminates surges, rather than suppressing surge energy, so that no harmful spikes are let through to devices. The multi-stage technology never degrades, as it doesn’t rely on self-sacrificial Metal Oxide Varistor (MOV) technology.”

Making Life Easier

AV tech managers like power conditioning products that make their working lives easier. After all, there’s more than enough problems for them to cope with in managing audio and video, without having to worry about power too.

Middle Atlantic said it eases tech managers’ lives by including Internet of Things (IoT) network connectivity in its power conditioning products.

“IoT solutions are game changers for AV tech managers,” Kahrim said. “Not only can they monitor and control AV systems from anywhere, but they can do so more efficiently and effectively than ever before. Our products are also engineered with tomorrow in mind, allowing organizations to expand the capabilities of their power protection system as their needs grow or to unlock new ones as technology continues to evolve—all without purchasing, installing, or managing additional hardware. 

AMETEK Electronic Systems Protection points to enhanced customer contact as its way of de-stressing tech managers."SurgeX stays in tune with market needs through communication and support for AV integrators and tech managers in the space to continually support smooth facility operation," Simmer said. "Our current product portfolio and technologies can support a wide variety of installations, and our team supports integrators with design help and education to create adequate power foundations.”

Finally, Nortek Security & Control power conditioning products allow tech managers to be more efficient, cost effective, and proactive, “which increases their value to their customers while increasing profitability for the firm," Desalernos said. "The real magic happens with our ELAN Management Cloud coupled with Panamax and Furman devices, [which gives users one point of access] to the network and all the items that reside on said network.”

The Bottom Line

Today’s power conditioning products are meant to make power management systems more far-reaching, protective, and easier to reset. There’s no reason for AV equipment to fail due to power spikes any more—the solutions are out there.

The SCN Hall of Fame recognizes leaders in the professional audiovisual industry—from integrators to manufacturers to consultants and the occasional technology manager.

SCN Hall of Fame 2021

SCN Hall of Fame 2020

SCN Hall of Fame 2019

SCN Hall of Fame 2018

SCN Hall of Fame 2017

• Steve Alcorn, Alcorn McBride
• John Arasim, Lectrosonics
• Mary E. Cook, The Sextant Group
• George Douglas, AVI-SPL
• Larry Hornbeck, Texas Instruments
• Mario Maltese, AQAV & AVR
• Brock McGinnis, Westbury National
• Chris Miller, PSNI
• Cory Schaeffer, QSC

SCN Hall of Fame 2016

• James Beckham, Audio-Video Corporation
• Deb Britton, K-2 Audio
• Dane Butcher, Symetrix
• Victoria Cerami, Cerami & Associates
• Brian Critchley, Digital Projection
• Jack Gershfeld, Altinex
• John Greene, Advanced AV
• Sandy Lamantia, Shure
• David Marsh, Marsh/PMK
• Pat Quilter, QSC
• Bob Sharp, SVSi
• John Whitlock, Whitlock

SCN Hall of Fame 2015

• Jeff Irvin, Spinitar
• Craig Janssen, Idibri
• Catherine Shanahan, Shanahan Sound and Electronics
• Jeff Stoebner, AVI Systems
• Robert Swing, IVCi
• Paul White, CompView
• Blake Augsburger, Harman
• Andrew Edwards, Extron Electronics
• George Feldstein, Crestron
• Loyd Ivey, Mitek, Atlas Sound
• Joseph Kramer, Kramer Electronics
• John and Helen Meyer, Meyer Sound
• Jan Sandri, FSR
• Bob Schluter, Middle Atlantic Products
• Don Stewart, Stewart Filmscreen

SCN Hall of Fame 2014

• Kurt Graffy, Arup Acoustics
• Merry McCleary, Avyve
• Michael MacDonald, ATK Audiotek
• Felix Robinson, AVI-SPL
• Millenium Park, The Talaske Group and db Integrated Systems

SCN Hall of Fame 2013

• Sam Berkow, SIA Acoustics
• Bob Coffeen, Coffeen Fricke and Associates
• Miriam Evaslin, Pro-Tec Electronics
• Ted Leamy, Pro Media/UltraSound
• Mark Valenti, The Sextant Group
• Opryland Hotel and Convention Center, Acoustic Dimensions and Ford Audio/Video

SCN Hall of Fame 2012

• Helene Andersen, AVI-SPL
• Mackey Barron, HB Communications
• Steve Emspak, Shen Milsom & Wilke
• Jim Ford, Ford Audio-Video
• Adam Karavas, Electronic Contracting
• Andy Musci, Altel
• Will Parry, AVI-SPL
• Robert Simpson, Electrosonic
• Scott Walker, Waveguide Consulting
• Jack Wrightson, WJHW
• Kevin Collins, HB Communications
• Randy Vaughan, AE Systems

The What: Middle Atlantic Products, a brand of Legrand | AV, has begun shipping its new Forward installation solutions. Forward is designed around an innovative new rackrail and Middle Atlantic’s patented universal hole pattern that allow the family’s blank and vent panels, cable management, lighting, and other rack solutions to be quickly installed without tools. 

The What Else:  The Forward family includes Forward Lighting toollessly mounts in the rack to illuminate the entire workspace, assuring that integrators can work with the best visibility even in the darkest closets. Forward Cable Management and Power Bracket Solutions keep cable runs tidy with horizontal and vertical options, while the power bracket simplifies any button power strip installation—eliminating the need for tools.Forward Blank and Vent Panels simply click into the new rackrail to achieve optimal rack design in minutes and without needing hardware.

Forward Small Device Mounting Clamps quickly mount and secure small non-rack mount devices vertically or horizontally using absolutely no hardware. Forward UPS base comes preinstalled, saving integrators’ backs from lifting and placing the heavy and large unit into the rack. Further simplifying the design process, Middle Atlantic is also offering a BGR enclosure that comes preconfigured with Forward installation solutions and can be ordered using one simple part number. This preconfigured option gives integrators the assurance of the industry's most trusted AV rack, packed with the benefits of Forward.

“When we asked installers where they spend a majority of their time and where they experience the biggest challenges, they told us it was inside the rack,” said Paul Dolynchuk, director of product management at Legrand | AV - Middle Atlantic Products. “Using that feedback, we created Forward. The highly anticipated family of options cleverly solves the most time-consuming rack-building tasks—from working in pitch-black spaces, mounting panels, and anchoring unwieldy cabling spaghetti, to dealing with power blips—without ever picking up a drill. Now integrators can release their inner speed demons, building an AV rack system more quickly and efficiently than they ever thought possible.”

The Bottom Line: The Forward accessory and options line addresses the entire system lifecycle and builds upon products that integrators have depended on for decades. With Forward, integrators can install everyday rack builds five times faster and with the reliability to ensure a satisfying and positive AV experience, according to the company.

The What: Middle Atlantic Products, a brand of Legrand | AV, has released its Premium+ PDU with RackLink. This next- generation power distribution and management solution builds upon the company’s Premium and Select Series PDUs, leveraging RackLink technology and Raritan's XERUS platform. 

The What Else: The Premium+ PDU features the full potential of RackLink, Middle Atlantic's remote management system. RackLink allows integrators control either locally or virtually through third-party AV control systems, cloud platforms, RESTful API, and SNMP for flexible management. In addition, it's developed around Raritan's XERUS platform, a solution for secure networks. Together, this power distribution and management solution provides advanced monitoring, control, logging, security, and power protection capabilities available for the most demanding AV applications.

Available in horizontal rackmount and compact models, the new solution provides under/over voltage, filtering, and surge protection with Middle Atlantic's patented Series Protection. It also provides accurate power monitoring and logging for current, voltage, watts, and power factor at the outlet level. This deep system insight enables integrators to understand exactly what any AV system is doing at any moment. Helping to curb the problems that heat and humidity in the rack can create, it features enhanced environmental monitoring capabilities with up to 32 individual sensors that can connect to a single unit to keep tabs on temperature and humidity. Finally, it enables integrators to solve simple problems through comprehensive, flexible control options for proactive system management and restoration if equipment issues occur, including IP, RESTful API, SNMP v3/MIB, CLI, RS-232, and dry contact.

"For 20 years we have been investing in developing power solutions for AV that go beyond just turning outlets on,” said Scott Lowder, director of product management for power at Middle Atlantic. “These have provided a foundation of system reliability, protection, and control that play huge role in the performance of the AV experience. Our Premium+ PDU incorporates the next generation of the RackLink technology we first introduced in 2011, empowering integrators to make actionable energy management decisions surrounding system design, optimization, and service. The significant system data now available for monitoring and analysis is also key to maximizing the impact of the next AVIXA Energy Management Standard revision that is currently in development."

The Bottom Line: With individual outlet power cycling/logging/monitoring, advanced environmental monitoring and control, and maximum security, the Premium+ PDU is designed to deliver a comprehensive suite of control, data, and security capabilities for the highest degree of network safety while eliminating unnecessary truck rolls for simple equipment fixes.

Check out the highlights from Day 2 at ISE 2019.

The What: Middle Atlantic Products is now stocking and shipping the High Power DC Distribution solution, solving the installation challenges posed by powering a high density of DC-powered components with similar voltages. 

The What Else: Part of the DC Power Distribution family, the new 200W and 300W models provide high current capacity to a high quantity of outputs—up to 24 devices—maximizing the same voltage in a single unit, 5V, 12V, or 24V, or splitting between 12/24V.

"When we introduced the DC Power Distribution family two years ago, for the first time we made it possible for integrators to install the growing number of DC-powered small devices easily in a rack and reliably power them," said Scott Lowder, director of product management for power at Middle Atlantic. "Since then, our customers have anxiously awaited models that would meet their higher power and density system demands. With these new solutions, customers can solve every power requirement that comes their way."

The Bottom Line: As devices and applications shrink in size, technology professionals must maximize utility of every AC outlet available, especially in European applications. Middle Atlantic Products' DC Power Distribution solutions gives AV consultants, integrators, and installers access to a broad DC power distribution portfolio. They not only remove messy, space-consuming, unreliable wall warts from the design and provide maximum power to support, but they also increase system efficiency, which saves energy and reduces heat generation. 

The new 200W and 300W models deliver the same features as the family's 45W DC compact and 125W DC 1-RU systems, eliminating power-cabling clutter caused by the growing number of small devices. The solutions' reliable multilevel protection on both AC input and DC outputs and built-in individual redundancy ensure maximum uptime. The multimount design can be installed in an available 1-RU space or at the back or side of the rack for zero-U mounting, providing ultimate installation flexibility. A supported input voltage range of 100-240VAC, 50/60 Hz provides additional design flexibility for international applications.

Bag & Baggage Productions (B&B) could write the book on flexibility. After all, the Hillsboro, OR-based theater company started touring the town in 2005 with nothing more than a van, mobile sets, and a handful of actors. By 2008, they had grown to become a popular fixture of the community and leased the historical converted Venetian Theater in the heart of the city’s Main Street. However, B&B required a new home when it was slated to be sold in 2016.

Nimble as ever, the company set its sights on its own permanent residence and found a 5,000-square-foot bank building just two blocks away. B&B aptly named the new home The Vault, as a nod to the building’s history as well as a signifier of the company’s permanence in the city and within the theater scene.

Unlike the Venetian—which was a large, 386-seat proscenium theater that was originally a movie theater—The Vault was built out as a small, black-box-style theater. This style is known for being simple. There’s no stage, just a flat floor and unadorned walls. Guests are situated around the four walls with the actors taking “the stage” in the middle of the floor. This change in setup was just one of the ways the company was reinventing itself.

“We had been at the Venetian for eight years, so we had gotten used to doing things a certain way,” said Jim Ricks-White, technical director for Bag & Baggage. “The Vault was a refreshing departure from that. When we started this process of looking for a new space, we started recalling our early years of operating out of a van. Everything had to be flexible. We wanted this space to reflect that humble beginning and not only function as theater but as a multipurpose event space that we could rent out to the community. To be that flexible, we had to be really selective of what technology we used and optimize the space for it.”

Technology has been the driving force for achieving that vision. Due to the size of the space, larger physical sets weren’t possible and something the company wanted to move away from anyway. Therefore, B&B decided to rely heavily on lighting and projection technology to set the scene, which, from a technology viewpoint, would make what was happening behind the scenes in the control booth just as important as what was happening on stage.

With that in mind, the executive team at B&B and Opsis Architecture created a facility that could host any kind of event, from corporate meetings to wedding receptions and film festivals, and specified technology that would allow them to carry that off. That included a BenQ 4K BlueCore laser projector, eight Mitsubishi projectors, a full JBL surround sound system with Lutron control, a Da-Lite projection screen, and a Crestron controlled digital lighting rig in the theater and in the control booth all manner of behind the scenes support such as a video camera and monitor to visualize the theater from the booth, an audio mixer, a wireless video distribution system, a patch bay panel, and a control system.

Because space was at a premium, B&B needed a rack that can handle many inputs while at the same time being incredibly accessible. Opsis Architecture selected Middle Atlantic Products SR Series Wall Mount Pivoting rack. Designed to address the need for space-saving solutions to house system distribution points, the SR Series’ innovative design allows the rack to be mounted on a wall and pivot open 90 degrees on a floor base to provide quick access to rear equipment connections without having to leaving room behind it. The rack also incorporates Middle Atlantic's built-in cable management and tool-free QuickMount system to integrate technology to best-practice standards.

“Having the ability to control and plug and play all of the technology to the show or event specifications has afforded us an incredible amount of freedom,” Ricks-White said. “Though we’re operating from a smaller space now compared to the Venetian, everything is right there in the rack—our camera input and monitor, all our HDMI connections, and our entire sound system. Access to the back of the rack has been incredibly useful in getting to our HDMI ports, which are in the back of the rack. For the first couple of shows, I was in the back of rack two or three times a show. Being able to swing open the rack and quickly plug into my next inputs was critical. It’s fast and simple.”

From a stage and technology management point of view, the consolidation of all that tech in one space has been a benefit for the crew, giving them something they didn’t have at the Venetian: better access and control of the technology. Previously, the sound booth and the lighting booth were in separate locations in the balcony. This required two operators for every show because if something went wrong in one place during a show, the other person couldn't get up and go fix it. Now everything is right where it’s needed.

“For example, if I suddenly lose signal on something at the mixer, I literally take three steps, look at the rack, and see if I'm getting signal at the switcher,” Ricks-White said. “There’s no digging around. It gives me three points that I can look at before I have to come down to the floor and figure out what's going on. It makes troubleshooting so much faster. It’s also key to our future as an organization. With everything we do, we keep asking ourselves how we, as a theater company, can move into the 22nd century. We will by staying flexible through technology and investing it in.”

To that end, The Vault was recently awarded a $50,000 technology grant to fund the purchase of the 4K projector. With the projector, the company has created a state-of-the-art digital projection laboratory that allows area artists, students, animators, innovators, and digital content producers to experiment with 4K technology. The projector also allows them to screen film festivals with 4K HD movies in the space as well as serve any presentation requirements for banquet, corporate, and event clients.

“We’re already doing 4K projection mapping for scenes, and we’re going to keep pushing the technology envelope and evolving,” Ricks-White said. “Our system will change down the road to naturally keep pace with what’s available. With a rack like this, we’re ready for that. It’s the brains of our operation.”