In a release dated July 31, 2024, Panasonic Connect announced that it has reached an agreement on a strategic capital partnership with ORIX Corporation in regard to the company’s projector business and related operations. The two companies plan to establish a new company to operate the business aiming for continued growth. This decision was made today at the board of directors meeting of Panasonic Holdings Corporation concerning the following details.

Overview

Together with ORIX, Panasonic Connect will establish a new company based on its Media Entertainment Business Division (MEBD), aiming for further growth of the business. Regarding the new company, ORIX will hold 80% of the shares, and Panasonic Connect will hold 20%. After the capital partnership, target products will continue to carry the Panasonic brand, and the new company will also use the Panasonic name for the time being.

Background and Objectives

Since the commercialization of its first cathode ray tube (CRT) projector in 1975, the company’s commercial projector and display business has launched a wide range of products utilizing proprietary device control technology*1. Over the past 50 years, the company has earned the trust of customers around the globe, and with a leading market share in the high-brightness projector market*2, the company has established a strong position in the visual solutions business.

On the other hand, in this market the importance of integrating software along with advanced hardware has increased, and significant changes in the competitive environment have arisen due to the emergence of applied technologies and the demand for immersive experiences. In order to achieve in-organic growth and further market expansion going forward, the company has deemed that it will be necessary to strengthen operations and make continual investments.

In light of these circumstances, Panasonic Connect and ORIX have determined that further growth can be achieved by leveraging the former’s technological expertise and customer base, along with the investment power ORIX holds and the knowledge and experience cultivated through business investments in numerous companies, including manufacturing and large corporations.

ORIX, with which the company has decided to form this capital partnership, is a corporation that engages in diverse financial services and is committed to business operations with a medium- to long-term perspective. Through this capital partnership, the company aims to leverage ORIX's wealth of business investment experience and pursue strategies for in-organic growth, along with continuous investment for technological development in hardware technology and the construction and execution of strategic alliances on a global scale.

About the New Company

In April 2025, the new company will be established out of the Media Entertainment Business Division of Panasonic Connect. Additionally, overseas subsidiaries will be established from the sales functions of that division in North America, Europe, China, Australia, Singapore and other regions to be operated by the new company. In Japan, Panasonic Connect’s Gemba Solutions Company will continue to handle domestic sales.

About Strategic Capital Partner: ORIX Corporation

*1: Detailed control technology for core devices that enable compact, lightweight, high-brightness, and high-quality projectors.

*2: Source: PMA PMA_2023CYQ2_WorldwidePJCensusRevenues, sales amount for Pro only, excluding D-Cinema, 10,000lm or more.

*3: Panasonic Connect is currently negotiating with overseas sales companies to establish the new company.

We published them, you read them. In case you missed it this week, here were the five most-clicked stories from Systems Contractor News and the AV Network.

Dollar Loan Center: If It Ain't Broke...

The high-end AV systems in the home of the AHL's Henderson Silver Knights is modelled after T-Mobile Arena, home of the NHL's Vegas Golden Knights. 

“Our AV system was designed to be a miniature version of T-Mobile Arena’s,” said Steve Carl, director of audio visual and production, Dollar Loan Center. “We’re kind of the little sibling of that facility, in the sense that we have the same AV DNA as they do.”

See how they did it by clicking here. 

Is AVoIP at a Tipping Point? One Man's Opinion

During a meeting, no one cares how content gets transported to the display. They want it to be easy, they want it to be reliable, they want it to be accurate, and they assume its secure. An HDMI cable between the computer and the display is all these things. When there are multiple sources to be routed to multiple displays matrix switchers achieve the objectives. If an acceptable solution exists, why change it?

AV/IT industry veteran, Paul Zielie has an opinion on whether AV-over-IP is at a tipping point, or if it's even close. Check it out here. 

SCN Exclusive: John Storyk on Why Seizing the Day Can Forever Change Your Pro AV Path

A young John Storyk spent a dime to make a phone call in the late 1960s. That call got him hired to work on what would become one of New York City's hot spots, Cerebrum. That's where he met Jimi Hendrix... and everything changed.

Storyk's blueprint for success? Carpe Diem. Read about it all here. 

Wait Until You See the Extensive AV Integration in NYC’s Javits Center Addition

It goes without saying that space is at a premium in Manhattan. Greatly expanding an existing commercial facility to enhance its utility, improve its efficiency and elevate its profile in a competitive market is no mean feat. But the 1.2 million-square-foot addition to New York City’s Jacob K. Javits Convention Center has achieved just that.

Metinteractive, which provides strategic solutions for architecture, communication, and technology, partnered with Lendlease Turner JV as a member of the design build construction team and as AV integrator for the Javits Center expansion. “The Javits Center now has a vastly more versatile and complex AV system, rigging system, lighting system, IPTV system, and motorized room partitions—all the components seen as the gold standard for today’s convention centers,” said Jeff Mele, Metinteractive CEO.

Check out what went down by clicking here. 

The State of Esports in Higher Education

Ashley "AJ" Jones is the director of membership sales and services at the National Association of Collegiate Esports (NACE) since joining the team in August 2021. In her role, Jones works with the NACE membership team to develop and implement a comprehensive recruitment and retention plan. Jones is NACE’s primary representative for more than 200 colleges and universities. Before joining the NACE team, Jones served as the esports head coach at Park University in Parkville, MO, and launched the university’s first esports program. 

Esports is growing, and Jones shares some numbers and insights on what you need to know. 

Oldies, but Goodies

Here are a few stories that are a few weeks (if not months) old but, like the Jelly of the Month Club, keep getting love every time.

• USB Type-C: One Port to Rule Them All
• 5 Takeaways from the AV/IT Summit
• The ABCs of APIs
• Ghost in the HDMI Machine

In preparation for increasing product demand, Lawo invested in a state-of-the-art, high-precision SMD production line from Fuji Europe Corporation GmbH.

"As a manufacturer of top video and audio technology, we guarantee compliance with the highest production quality standards," explained Andreas Hilmer, chief marketing officer at Lawo. "After all, our products must provide our clients with years of reliable service around the clock. So it goes without saying that our manufacturing technology must also be the most modern the market has to offer."

Lawo develops, manufactures and distributes advanced network, control, audio, and video systems for TV and radio, industry, live sound, and theater applications. These IP-based products are manufactured to the highest quality standards at the company’s headquarters in Rastatt, Germany, where Lawo employs about two-thirds of its approximately 300 worldwide employees. Lawo products and solutions have been used in high-profile events such as World Cup championships or Formula 1 races.

[SCN Top 50 Systems Integrators 2021] 

To meet these demanding requirements, Lawo has invested in three new Fuji AIMEX-series pick-and-place machines, which can assemble around 30,000 components per hour of even the smallest component size, EIA 01005, equivalent to twice the diameter of a human hair.

"AIMEX IIIc is a machine platform that enables any type of production and changes in the package shapes used," said Stefan Janssen, managing director of Fuji Europe Corporation GmbH. "It supports in one machine the processing of smallest chip components up to large components. At the same time, it is possible to easily ramp up new productions or react to changes in package shapes. This creates a high degree of flexibility."

[SCN Hybrid World: Workplace Products and Expert Tips] 

The new production line also includes an integrated vapor phase soldering furnace and automated component storage cabinets, which save working time and space and extend the shelf life of parts and components.

"With this significant investment of around one million euros in our Rastatt production line, we are securing Lawo's future viability as a manufacturer of high-quality hardware products and ensuring that we can continue to map the full vertical range of manufacture within the company," said Christian Lukic, chief supply chain officer at Lawo. "This enables us to remain independent in the future, and to ensure our quality standards as befits a premium manufacturer of broadcast and media technology.”

"This sophisticated new production line works much more precisely than its predecessor. It reduces the possibility of errors nearly to zero and reduces setup times while significantly increasing placement speed—a clear step towards Lawo’s continued successful future."

Brompton Technology announced it has secured a growth capital investment from specialist private client alternative investments business, Connection Capital.

Richard Mead, Brompton Technology CEO, is clear on the benefits the investment will bring to the company. “We are seeing unprecedented growth in demand for our cutting-edge, robust, tour and virtual production-ready LED video processing products from our core industry sectors, as well as a lot of exciting potential for our technology to be applied to new markets. Whilst our focus on quality and dedication to customer service will remain the same, Connection Capital’s investment gives us the ability to scale up rapidly to meet demand and address the new opportunities that are presenting themselves.”

[Brompton Technology to Showcase Multi-Camera Virtual Production]

“Brompton Technology is an excellent example of a successful business that pivoted, almost overnight, into virtual production for film and TV during the pandemic and is now emerging even stronger than before,” commented Miles Otway, partner at Connection Capital. “With its industry-leading technology, diversified revenue streams, talented management team and soaring demand for its products, Brompton Technology has a very compelling growth story that has really appealed to our private investor clients.”

Alongside Connection Capital’s investment, Neil Gaydon, a highly experienced Non-Executive Chairman, will also join Brompton’s board. Neil has a track record of successfully delivering growth in technology companies, including as CEO of Pace plc from 2006-2011, during which time Pace became the world’s largest provider of digital TV technologies to the Pay TV industry.

[SCN Hybrid World: Workplace Products and Expert Tips] 

“We are fortunate to be in a leadership position in a rapidly growing market," Mead concluded. "This investment will enable us to capitalize on growth opportunities and deliver outstanding visual experiences to more and more people worldwide. We are excited to start a new phase of our journey with support from Connection Capital.”

YCD Multimedia recently promoted and added new positions to help expand and strengthen the company's global position in the digital signage industry. 

The immersive digital experience designers have promoted Ido Aviram to general manager, and Dina Townsend to vice president of sales and marketing, Americas. New additions include Roman Koushner as vice president of sales and marketing, EMEA, Randi Tomchin as an inside sales executive for the Americas, and Stuart Armstrong has joined as an advisory board consultant to help the YCD parent holding company grow through mergers and acquisitions. 

[Digital Signage: The Future Is Bright] 

“I started with Cnario back in 2006, who was then acquired by YCD in 2012. My sixteen-year career has been incredible, and I am excited for my new iteration at YCD as GM. My goal is to expand our presence in the Americas and help build an all-star team of creative digital signage pros to build relationships that drive experiences,” said Aviram.

In his role, Koushner will have responsibility for growing the EMEA market for YCD through building a strong sales team and a successful partner channel. Koushner brings over 20 years of experience in leading global companies, developing new markets, and has a deep understanding of building, maintaining, and developing client and partner relationships. 

[SCN Hybrid World: Workplace Products and Expert Tips] 

Tomchin will be an integral part of the Americas sales team and will be working with Townsend to ensure YCD’s continued success. Tomchin has enjoyed a successful career in the corporate world managing high-level executive events and has a strong aptitude for business development and for building and maintaining excellent client relationships.

Armstrong and his firm AAG Consulting will help identify new verticals. He has a proven track record with growing global companies.

MSE Audio announced its new partnership with Electro-Acoustics Systems (EAS) as its distributor in Singapore, Cambodia, Indonesia, and Brunei for SoundTube, SolidDrive, Soundsphere and Rockustics products and solutions.

“EAS is a great company with a long, rich history in the AV industry,” said Ken Hecht, vice president at MSE Audio. “With EAS’ extensive design and installation experience in Pro AV, broadcast, sound reinforcement, and other commercial audio solutions, our brands will be represented by one of the most highly respected companies in Southeast Asia."

[SoundTube New Releases Surface Mount Subwoofer]

Electro-Acoustics Systems was founded 40 years ago designing sound reinforcement solutions and began offering state-of-the-art boardroom presentation systems shortly after. Headquartered in Singapore, ,EAS expanded their footprint to other countries including Brunei, Malaysia, and China and extended their offerings to include broadcast then stage lighting and rigging. As new technologies developed, EAS has adopted and adapted to provide cutting-edge multimedia systems for some of the most notable events and venues in the region. 

[Newsmakers: July's Pro AV People on the Move]

“As one of Singapore’s leading multimedia systems firms, we work in synergy with our clients to provide value beyond what the latest technology can offer,” said Lam Tze Tze, executive director of EAS. “We are thrilled to bring this value by working with the MSE Audio team and  the extensive family of products. The innovative, patented, and versatile products give us many more unique audio solutions to offer our customers.”

ProSource announced the addition of 17 new Custom Integrator (CI) level members in the first half of 2022. New members contributed $33.6 million in new revenue for the year.

"Congratulations to our new members. The ProSource team is dedicated to providing programs, education, and collaboration with the very best CI leaders in the United States," said Jim Pearse, president of ProSource. "We respect the hard work and entrepreneurial spirit it takes to grow your businesses, and taking this step will help you to continue your journey of success. Welcome to our family."

[ProSource Honors PRO, Power Level 2021 Members of the Year, Vendor of the Year]

The new CI members are:

• Apex A/V, Milwaukee, WI—Andrew Herr
• Automated Lifestyles, LLC, Louisville, KY—Phil Chaney
• Axiom Home Tech, Monterey, CA—Seth and Natalie Gibson
• Custom Cinema & Sound, Fargo, ND—Kelly Azure
• eDesign Group, Inc., Kihei, HA—Jon Miller
• Epic Companies, Marietta, GA—Jamie Shannon
• Front Row Home Theater, Inc., Davie, FL—Chris Cotter
• Fusion Systems, Las Vegas—Matthew Smith
• Henri New York, New York—Michael Sherman
• mero CONCEPTS, Cedar Park, TX—Marc Oliveri
• MV Help Desk, Vineyard Haven, MA—Matthew Rodenbaugh
• Origin Hi Fi, Austin, TX—Chris Ross
• Simplex, Roeland, KS—Brian Lundbeck
• Smart Home Systems, Franklin Lakes, NJ—Frank Cardone
• Stone-Glidden, King of Prussia, PA—Matthew Marcinowski and John Whitson
• TruMedia, Ada, MI—Ponch and Amanda Wildman
• World of Sound & Vision, Walnut Creek, CA—Jason Combs and Kevin Musante

[SCN Hybrid World: Workplace Products and Expert Tips] 

"ProSource applies a very high standard to the vetting process of each new member company that joins the organization," added Sherry Dantonio, ProSource senior director of education and membership recruitment. "We encourage every member of ProSource to embrace the programs and initiatives that are dedicated to each member's success."

LEA Professional announced a partnership with manufacturer’s representative firm Audio Biz, bringing the performance and business benefits of its innovative, cloud- and IoT-enabled amplification technology to Northern Illinois and Southern Wisconsin.

“Audio Biz is the ideal partner for us; together we are driven to provide customers in Northern Illinois and Southern Wisconsin with world-class technology and a support network that allows them to do business in a simple, more efficient way,” commented Scott Robbins, vice president of global sales for LEA Professional. “Audio Biz understands as we do, that customers are looking for new ways to conduct business and are embracing new technologies. We look forward to working together to bring the LEA technology to more projects in the region.”

[Meet The Nine 2022: LEA Professional's Brian Pickowitz]

Illinois-based Audio Biz recently celebrated 30 years of business within the Pro AV community. The company, which has been recognized multiple times as one of the top rep firms in the U.S., believes in supporting customers from start to finish and conducting business on a person-to-person level. Its employees spend time with each brand they represent, getting to know the products, technologies and their benefits on a deep level, to better inform and serve their customers for many years of success.

This strong customer-focused ethos is one of the reasons why LEA Professional knew that a partnership with Audio Biz would be successful. The LEA Professional team has a combined 200 years’ experience in the pro audio market, meaning they understand the pain points faced by integrators, end customers, and channel partners. The entire LEA team strives to ensure that every interaction with their technology is simple, seamless, and intuitive for everyone involved, a practice within the company known as the LEA way.

[Cloud Power: Cloud or On-Prem?] 

Audio Biz recognizes that the Pro AV space has changed, with many trends—such as the merging of AV and IT—being accelerated during the pandemic. Audio Biz itself changed the way they did things during the lockdowns, for example, by offering virtual demonstrations to integrators, which resulted in consistent growth and market acceptance for their lines. The company saw the huge potential in LEA Professional’s cloud and IoT-based technology, which during COVID-19, became an integrated element of an integrator’s safe and secure workflow.

“As a manufacturer’s rep, we see other companies in the industry who have not embraced technology nor changed with the times, instead they keep doing the same thing over again because that’s how they have always done it, rather than because it works,” said Randy Stenson, president, Audio Biz. “The pandemic really threw a spotlight on who was ahead of the curve and who wasn’t. With LEA, we saw how they not only embrace change but are at the forefront of change, and we are proud to be right there with them.”

Vertiv released its inaugural environmental, social and governance (ESG) report, the company’s first public report of its ESG activities. 

The report outlines Vertiv’s approach to energy and water efficiency; diversity, equity and inclusion (DE&I); employee health and safety; and other ESG-related topics. The content covered in the report serves as a baseline upon which the organization will build future efforts. 

[Vertiv Introduces New Solutions for Edge Applications at Data Center World]

“We all know how critical connectivity is to our daily lives and the global economy. The world’s appetite for data continues to rise, and our solutions keep data systems on and connected. At the same time, we recognize the current and potential impacts of climate change,” said Rob Johnson, Vertiv CEO. “We are seeking to meet the growing demand for critical digital infrastructure, and simultaneously mitigate environmental impacts from our operations and products. As a result, we’re innovating to come up with more efficient and effective ways to support critical digital infrastructure.” 

Vertiv’s ESG Executive Steering Committee, made up of senior leaders from across the organization, is driving a company-wide evaluation of ESG performance.

Some of the activities and results highlighted in the report include: 

• The introduction of new and upgraded products with high energy and water efficiency attributes, with others planned for release in the coming months and years.
• Participation in several industry partnerships aimed at addressing data center efficiency and emissions, including the EcoEdge PrimePower Project (E2P2), the Sustainable Digital Infrastructure Alliance (SDIA), the European Data Centre Association (EUDCA), and the RISE Partnership Program.
• An internal review of Vertiv’s Scope 1 and 2 greenhouse gas emissions.
• Development of performance and improvement benchmarks to help the organization reduce operational greenhouse gas emissions.
• A 12% year-over-year reduction in recordable injuries based on the U.S. Occupational Safety and Health Administration’s total reportable injury rate (TRIR).
• The introduction of training opportunities to support the organization’s global focus on diversity, equity and inclusion.
• The appointment of multiple women to executive positions within the company within the last two years, including Sheryl Haislet, chief information officer, and Stephanie Gill, chief legal counsel.

Earlier in June, Christie announced it ramped up its production facility in its Kitchener-based Center for Engineering Excellence to keep pace with increased demand for MicroTiles LED. The new space includes a state-of-the-art automation line with robotic handling, which has increased manufacturing capabilities by almost threefold. The design of the new area mirrors some of the most advanced manufacturing facilities in the world.

Why Micro Tiles LED?

Christie's award-winning MicroTiles LED deliver P3 color space, fully compliant HDR-10 and includes patented software that keeps the wall calibrated at 97% or greater uniformity. MicroTiles LED includes a low-profile ADA-compliant QuickMount system so displays can be created in any shape and size, including 90-degree inside/outside corners and both concave and convex curves.

“We’re excited to be at the forefront of incorporating advanced manufacturing processes into LED design and production,” said Shawn Mills, director of display engineering, Christie. “Ultimately, we want to deliver a product that continues to exceed expectations and meets demand, and we believe our new manufacturing space will allow us to do that.”

[New Christie Projectors Combine Performance and Reliability]

Increased manufacturing capabilities at Christie

The new area includes advanced robotics and assembly lines, capable of manufacturing Christie’s MicroTiles LED. “In production and manufacturing, there is a tendency to outsource automation,” said Mills. “By designing and building our new automation line using our in-house engineering experts, we've not only increased our manufacturing capabilities, but we've also ensured we are ready for the next stage of growth. As a result, the new space incorporates best-in-class practices, including vertical integration, which ensures we build the highest quality product for our customers.”

Additionally, two new “pick and place” robots have been installed to perform repetitive, low-level tasks, including moving tiles from conveyors quickly and efficiently. This allows Christie’s highly trained manufacturing staff to focus on more advanced tasks.

[Viewpoint: The Future is Repeatable, Dependable AV] 

Mills is excited for the future, and the versatility of the team. “We can now invest even more in what's called design for manufacturing (DFM), a process used in higher volume industries, like automotive. On the team we have people that build and design the product and then naturally shift to designing the automation as an extension of this process. This gives the company a huge advantage because we can control much more of the value-chain, and we can be innovative not only in the design of the product, but also the process of creating that product. It’s as important how we make our products as what we’re making.”

With the new production facility, Christie can increase production of MicroTiles LED, and adhere to the very high standard of quality that this product is known for. “We measure every LED as they come off the line, and we make sure they hit very tight tolerances, so that the MicroTiles create a seamless canvas.”

PPDS made several personnel announcements including the retirement of 30-year veteran Peter Vinke and the creation of its third regional business cluster in Europe. The new structuring combines the strengths of its Nordics and Benelux teams to facilitate new, enhanced growth opportunities.

The Godfather of Philips

Hailed internally as the ‘Philips Godfather,’ Peter Vinke’s career and association with the Philips brand spans more than 30 years. He successfully positioned Philips professional displays into the global hospitality sector, including all major international hotel groups, since 2005. The company confirmed the long-serving PPDS sales director is to retire in September.

[PPDS Adds AV Industry-Leading Talents to North America Team]

“Peter has been an integral part of the Philips professional displays story in the hospitality sector across all regions, and his enthusiasm for building our brand has always been exemplary," commented Franck Racapé, head of global commercial at PPDS. "Peter is also a great contributor to the positive team spirit here at PPDS, welcoming colleagues, motivating our teams, and energizing the marketplace.

“His boots were always going to be difficult to fill, and in Mikael da Fonseca, we have a natural leader with already proven passion, skills, and an exceptional track record. This leaves me with no doubt that he is the outstanding candidate we need to build on Peter’s achievements and to lead our hospitality display business forward during our next phase of growth.”

Global strengths: Mikael da Fonseca promoted

da Fonseca, previously sales director for the Nordics at PPDS, has been promoted to international key account director hospitality as Vinke prepares for retirement in September.

da Fonseca, who will begin his new role on July 1, has been with PPDS for more than 10 years and has been instrumental in guiding the company’s dramatic rise in the Nordics region, achieving and extending market share for Philips hospitality TVs to a commanding 55% in 2021. Based in Stockholm, da Fonseca joins Simone Gagliardi, Frank Trossen, and Valeriia Polovkova on the IKAM team.

PPDS’ unique IKAM approach was created to provide global consistency combined with local expertise for large-scale, multinational project installations, working with its network of trusted system integration partners serving more than 200-plus countries. The IKAM team is formed of dedicated market specialists—including corporate, hospitality, and retail—to deliver complete support from pre to post-sales, encompassing strategy, pricing, contracting, operations, and services.

Stronger together

Part of PPDS’ ‘Business Without Boundaries’ strategy, and mirroring recent positive geographical clustering in PPDS’ other burgeoning markets—including Iberia and France, and Central Eastern Europe and Poland—the latest phase of PPDS’ evolution sees the business magnify the existing strengths of its Nordics and Benelux sales teams to support the company’s ambitious growth target.

As part of the new structure, Roeland Scholten has been promoted to the newly created position of sales director BNL and Nordics. Based in Amsterdam, Scholten will see his responsibilities extended to lead and drive sales opportunities in the Baltics, Denmark, Finland, Iceland, Sweden and Norway, as well as his existing territory in Belgium, Netherlands and Luxembourg.

“Roeland’s drive to succeed is well-known within our company and the industry and I am very pleased to expand his role, harnessing his energy to capture the incredible opportunities ahead in this combined market space," said Racapé. "I have huge admiration for the hard work of our teams in both the Nordics and Benelux and we have designed this new structure to support them both in achieving their individual goals and our business ambitions.”

Since joining PPDS in 2016, Scholten has shown incredible leadership in the Benelux region, with PPDS experiencing record sales across both its Philips digital signage and developing direct view LED portfolios during his tenure. He will be tasked with managing and further accelerating this growth across all products within PPDS’ evolving portfolio of display solutions in the combined markets.

Earlier in June, Planar announced an expansion of the company’s Consultant, Architect and Designer (CAD) Group in North America. The dedicated team helps AV technology consultants simplify the process of designing complex video walls and other display solutions into their customers’ most important and demanding projects.

Planar’s CAD Group analyzes client project requirements and specifications, addresses design challenges, and delivers visualization systems that delight even the most demanding and creative technology visionaries. The CAD Group is also an avenue for the design community to provide feedback to influence Planar’s future products and services.

[Planar Introduces Two LED Video Wall Displays for Indoor and Outdoor Use]

Planar’s CAD team is led by Lainie Mataras, who was recently promoted to director after joining Planar as a business development manager in 2020. Mataras leverages her 25-year-plus background in the commercial AV and digital signage industry to lead the Planar CAD Group efforts, in addition to serving East Coast AV consultants, architects, and design firms.

The expansion of Planar’s CAD Group also welcomes Charles Duncan as central and west coast business development manager. Duncan joins Planar with more than 20 years of experience in the AV consultant market. Duncan will be Planar’s primary point of contact for AV consultants as well as architect and design firms spanning the Midwest to the Pacific Coast.

The new dedicated team also introduces Orlando Helena who joins as a pre-sales applications engineer and will be supporting Mataras and Duncan, covering all of North America. Helena brings eight years of AV industry experience, including a strong background in drafting and drawing design packages. He previously worked as a designer for premier New York City AV consultant firms CMS Audio Visual and Robert Derector Associates.

“Planar’s CAD team provides a unique layer of support for our customers and partners. We’re combining our expertise in delivering superior visual experiences and unsurpassed customer support with a full range of engineering and design tools and services,” said executive vice president Adam Schmidt. “We strive to constantly push the bounds of what is possible in the world of electronic visualization, and our consultants, architects, and designers are integral to these efforts. Under Lainie’s leadership and outfitted with Planar’s unparalleled array of display products and services, Planar’s CAD team brings Planar closer than ever to our design community, resulting in even more compelling and unique designs and projects.”

Planar’s enhanced CAD Group is supported by the company’s robust North American presence. With headquarters and manufacturing facilities, 17 showrooms, and pre and post-sales technical staff located throughout the United States and Canada, Planar is uniquely capable of providing professional top-shelf service and products at all stages of the customer’s process.

QSC launched the Q-SYS Technology Partner Program on June 1, 2022. The program enables software and hardware technology (vendor) partners to create market-ready solutions integrated with the Q-SYS Platform. Q-SYS Technology Partners can have their hardware and software solutions certified or validated and receive unique benefits and resources including dedicated development and technical support, marketing and training.

“The Q-SYS Partner Ecosystem connects systems, technologies, companies and people to redefine what’s possible, in the experiences AV can deliver, with the most flexible and robust cloud-manageable audio, video, and control platform on the market,” said Jason Moss, vice president corporate development and alliances, QSC. “Our next step is to inspire, enable and support the growing number of Q-SYS hardware and software partners with a comprehensive program framework that unlocks the power of their technology integrations with Q-SYS. The Q-SYS Technology Partner Program is the first of several programs to help deliver on this vision and accelerate business and value with our partners and customers.”

[QSC Brings Q-SYS Control to Google Meet Hardware Ecosystem]

Value for Technology Partners

The Q-SYS Technology Partner Program invests in partner success by providing unique value to help accelerate their business.

• Innovate with the Q-SYS Platform and become validated with official solution conduits into the Q-SYS Ecosystem, joining a thriving ecosystem.
• Collaborate directly with QSC to certify or verify solutions for market and ensure a seamless development process, as well as get ongoing support and maintenance.
•  Accelerate your go-to-market reach through promotion, validation and support from QSC.

“Technology partners are central to the growth and continued success and adoption of the Q-SYS Platform,” said Geno Zaharie, principal, alliances and ecosystems, QSC. “This new program provides a solid framework for establishing a trusted and beneficial relationship between QSC and our partners and allows us to accelerate growth and increase adoption of our technologies across the AV/IT industries. We look forward to working closely with our partners to further expand the Q-SYS Ecosystem.” 

[Q-SYS Part of Major League AV at Toronto's Rogers Centre] 

QSC is proud of its robust partner ecosystem and looks forward to onboarding several key partners already in the pipeline to join the Q-SYS Technology Program including Audio-Technica, Barco ClickShare, ETC, L-Acoustics, LG, Logitech, Mersive, Perfect Octave, Ping HD, Sennheiser, Volteo Edge, and Yealink.

The SDVoE Alliance announced Yamaha has joined the Alliance as an adopting member. 

“We are pleased to welcome Japan-based Yamaha Corporation to the SDVoE Alliance,” said Justin Kennington, president of the SDVoE Alliance. “The SDVoE Alliance has invested significantly in growing our presence and strengthening relationships in Japan. We introduced a Japan Marketing Committee and a Japanese-language website to further support our partners. The addition of Yamaha Corporation is another example of our continued growth in Japan.”

For over 25 years, Yamaha has manufactured network equipment in Japan. In 1987, the company introduced its first large-scale integrated circuit (LSIC) for communication, based on its digital audio processing technology. Yamaha developed its own network devices, which have been adopted in various applications, including corporate offices and retail and hospitality industries. 

[SDVoE Alliance Introduces Spanish-Language Translation for SDVoE Academy]

Yamaha has endeavored to produce products and services that satisfy people's diverse needs and desires worldwide. Its products and services are recognized worldwide for superior quality in acoustics, design, technology, craftsmanship, and customer-oriented services.  

“At Yamaha we have an open architecture concept, which allows customers in the professional AV/IT industry to choose from a wide range of solutions that are best suited to their environment,” said Mr. Nobuo Ikematsu, senior general manager of the Yamaha Corporation’s information and communication division. “Our membership of the SDVoE Alliance is a key part of this concept. By joining this not-for-profit consortium, Yamaha is demonstrating its commitment to the industry’s further development of reliable, cost-effective solutions for delivering high quality audio and video. We will continue to develop new solutions in response to industry demand, introducing more integrated, intuitive systems and total solutions which include both pro audio and networked audio products.”

[SCN Hybrid World: Yamaha and 10 More Speakerphones for Today's Workspace] 

The SDVoE Alliance supports many Japan-based members and a growing number of member events and industry trade shows in the Japanese region. Earlier this year, the SDVoE Alliance launched a Japanese version of its website. The site brings resources, specifications, and membership benefits that have been fully translated to support the SDVoE Alliance’s growing presence in the Japanese market. 

The SDVoE Alliance has over 50 members pushing the boundaries of innovation with new, problem-solving solutions designed to integrate seamlessly together. Together, the SDVoE’s members provide over 700 solutions that are designed to integrate seamlessly and flexibly to offer system integrators, designers, consultants, and installers with a reliable, sustainable solution. 

The SDVoE Alliance, a nonprofit consortium of technology providers collaborating to standardize the adoption of Ethernet to transport AV signals in professional AV environments, announces a collaboration with Semtech and Audinate for a turnkey reference design that simplifies AV-over-IP by combining the power of SDVoE video and Dante audio, discovery, clocking, and software control. 

[InfoComm 2022: SDVoE Alliance to Introduce 8K AV-over-IP Endpoints]

The SDVoE Alliance, Semtech and Audinate’s collaboration enable Dante-functionality to accelerate and streamline integration with SDVoE technology. Semtech’s BlueRiver AV-over-IP chipset is paired with Dante Embedded Platform to create a turnkey audio and software control solution for SDVoE based products. The reference design is interoperable with over 3,000 Dante-enabled audio products from more than 500 manufacturers. SDVoE technology expands the Dante ecosystem by enabling a category of AV-over-IP products traditionally supported by matrix switches. By combining SDVoE with Dante, manufacturers can create solutions which are optimized for both audio and video, utilizing a single control interface in Dante Controller.

“Semtech’s BlueRiver platform is designed to provide an efficient and cost-effective solution to address the ever-changing technology requirements of the professional AV market,” said Don Shaver, vice president of video products for Semtech. “The collaboration between Semtech, the SDVoE Alliance and Audinate is designed to simplify AV-over-IP technology without compromising quality or performance.”

[The Inside Track—Straight from InfoComm Exhibitors] 

“The SDVoE Alliance is a forward-looking alliance that is focused on future-proof technology. We believe in supporting new features and capabilities without new hardware,” said Justin Kennington, president of the SDVoE Alliance. “The reference design is eliminating traditional constraints by combining the power of SDVoE video, Dante audio, and Dante Controller to create a unified solution for software control.” 

“From the beginning, Audinate has focused on simplifying the customer experience for networked audio and video. This partnership with Semtech and the SDVoE Alliance extends this vision into the 10G space by providing a unified control experience for customers of SDVoE products,” said Josh Rush, chief marketing officer for Audinate.

Semtech’s BlueRiver chipset is the world’s only chipset to transport uncompressed, near zero-latency Ultra HD/4K HDR over standard Ethernet and is the foundation for SDVoE technology. SDVoE technology offers imperceptible latency (less than 0.1ms) and pixel packing technology that enables visually lossless 4K40 4:4:4 transmission over standard 10Gb Ethernet networks.

Sony Electronics has aligned with strategic partners across the AV industry to offer compatible software and hardware solutions that bring additional power, creative freedom and enhanced compatibility to its lineup of professional displays. This growing partner ecosystem, which launched last year, includes many of the leading solutions providers focused on digital signage, conference collaboration, and mounting.

“Sony’s display solutions, including our professional BRAVIA lineup and Crystal LED video wall are chosen by the community because of their superior image quality, reliability and flexibility,” said Theresa Alesso, president, imaging products and solutions Americas, Sony Electronics.  “Since we formally announced our AV Collaborative Alliances Program last year, the reception from partners and the community has been extremely positive. By combining our collective strengths with those of our collaborators, we’re committed to creating more compatibility and integration and providing more value for our users in a growing range of vertical markets—giving them yet another reason to seamlessly deploy our state-of-the-art displays.”

 [InfoComm 2022 Impulses: Sony Electronics]

With a focus on interactivity, certification, and compatibility, the program supports businesses across the AV spectrum, integrating with software solutions and hardware that address digital signage, IPTV, device management, computer vision and AI, AV control systems, and unified communications.

Charter Alliance Partners include:

• Appspace
• Crestron
• Draper
• Korbyt
• Navori Labs
• Peerless-AV
• Skykit
• Spectrio
• TSI Touch
• Webex by Cisco

At InfoComm 2022, June 8-10 in Las Vegas, Sony will be showcasing key Alliance Partners and technology collaborators. See integrated conference collaboration solutions from Crestron (XiO Cloud), Cisco (WebEx), Logitech and Pexip paired with Sony’s BRAVIA professional displays including Airplay and Chromecast demos.  Strategic digital signage collaborators will be demonstrating how Sony is strengthening its vertical market approach, including Spectrio (corporate), Navori Labs (retail), Skykit (education), Appspace (healthcare) and Korbyt (transportation).  Hardware partners including Peerless-AV, Draper and TSI Touch will also support Sony’s BRAVIA professional displays and Crystal LED video walls and create a richer experience for users and attendees.

[The Inside Track—Straight from InfoComm Exhibitors] 

In related news, Sony’s BRAVIA professional displays recently received certifications from both Crestron and Cisco.  With prior certification for Crestron Connected, Sony has now integrated its latest Technology Operations Management Platform, XiO Cloud, enabling businesses to access its workplace technology all in one place.  As a certified partner, Crestron’s XiO Cloud platform allows customers to deploy, monitor, and manage Sony’s displays from a centralized location, reducing installation time and increasing uptime. The displays are also Webex certified and integrated with Webex Room Kit Series, the market leading devices for video meetings and virtual team collaboration.

Clark & Enersen added Digital Experience Design to its wide array of services, which already included a majority of the design disciplines required for most projects and several specialized service offerings.

The firm’s holistic, full-service approach to design involves analyzing every facet of a project, focusing on how various site and facility features, technologies, and systems integrate with and complement one another. The philosophy behind digital experience design fits in seamlessly with this approach by encouraging clients to explore the potential for creating facilities, spaces, and systems that deliver innovative, reliable, and memorable experiences across diverse project types. This service lives at the intersection between planning, architecture, interior design, and engineering to offer clients improved connection, collaboration, and communication.

[SCN Top 50 Systems Integrators 2021] 

“We are always looking for opportunities to expand our service offerings to meet the needs of our clients. We are thrilled to add digital experience design to that growing list of services,” said Shawn Diederich, PE, LEED AP, WELL AP, chairman of the board and senior principal at Clark & Enersen. “With this addition, our firm will now offer highly-specialized, in-house services related to audiovisual systems and other related technologies, which will further bolster our expertise.”

Craig Park, FSMPS, Associate AIA serves as Clark & Enersen’s new director of digital experience design, working from the firm’s new satellite office in Charleston, S.C. Craig brings more than 40 years of award-winning experience in the A/E design industry, working at the intersection of architecture and technology. He understands how incorporating the design of audiovisual, information technology, telecommunications, electronic security, and other low voltage systems helps clients future-proof their facilities and create engaging experiences for stakeholders and facility users.

The firm’s digital experience design team creates integrated communications systems that optimize the quality and impact of information exchange, user engagement, and innovative environments. They recognize that change is a constant in technology and focus their designs on robust and flexible infrastructure to support cost-effective, sustainable, and energy-efficient systems.

[The Nine 2022: Meet 9 Pro AV Superstars] 

“I’m thrilled to join such a great group of professionals whose integrated practice of planning, architecture, and engineering now includes digital experience design,” said Park. “Technology has become the anticipated fourth utility for our clients. They expect connection, collaboration, and communication to be responsive, reliable, and secure for all stakeholders. Hybrid workplaces, learning spaces, and healthcare facilities rely on technology to connect users seamlessly, whether onsite or remote. Incorporating the digital experience into our design process will further enhance our ability to create sustainable and intelligent buildings.”

With Clark & Enersen’s expertise in designing a wide range of project types, the digital experience design team will be able to have a direct impact on client outcomes, regardless of the project type. Technology expertise includes higher education facilities, laboratory environments, healthcare facilities, schools, libraries, and office and retail spaces, among numerous others. The result will be facilities and environments with intuitive, easy-to-use systems that enhance image quality and aural clarity, allowing for inspiring experiences designed for the future.

AVI-SPL, a world-leading digital enablement services provider, was honored by the Strategic Account Management Association (SAMA) with the award for 2022  Outstanding Mature Program of the Year and as the inaugural recipient of the Systemic Enablement of the SAM Program award.  

This recognition represents AVI-SPL’s fourth consecutive win, following the last two years’ wins of the SAMA Outstanding Mature Program of the Year and previous two years of winning SAMA’s Outstanding Young SAM Program award when SAMA honored the growing value of AVI-SPL’s Global Strategic Accounts Program. 

Each year, the SAMA Excellence Awards recognize and applaud business-to-business companies who achieve unparalleled success at elevating relationships with key customers by solving their most critical  business problems. Winners not only enhance their programs’ stature internally but also demonstrate to their clients their commitment to delivering a world-class customer experience.  

[Reimagine the Human Experience of Technology with AVI-SPL]

AVI-SPL is in esteemed company with other global organizations who’ve earned this recognition. Past SAMA winners include strategic account programs led by 3M, Adobe, Johnson Controls. Merck, and Pfizer. AVI-SPL’s Joe Laezza, senior vice president of global strategic accounts, and Danielle Matteson, vice president of global strategic accounts, received the honor during SAMA’s annual conference in New Orleans today.  

“AVI-SPL prides itself on being a trusted advisor to our clients. Our global strategic account program is  oriented around a partnership with select designated clients that is forged on mutual innovation that leads to new value,” said Laezza. “The recognition by SAMA further validates our unique and proven approach to guiding clients to successful new digital workplace experiences that generate impactful  business results.” 

Over the past five years, AVI-SPL has steadily and significantly grown its Global Strategic Accounts  Program through strategic alignment with its top global and enterprise customers across all sectors and  geographies. The program establishes a trusted business partnership focused on mutual innovation to  create measurable and meaningful value for customers. Many company members of AVI-SPL’s Global  Strategic Accounts Program are also members of its Customer Advisory Board. 

[AVI-SPL Expands Collaboration as a Service (CaaS) Program Globally]

This trusted partnership is especially important as companies re-imagine the future of work, accelerate digital transformation, and rapidly experiment with new digital workplace models. AVI-SPL has earned  their trust as an expert guide by providing technology solutions that keep them collaborating across the  enterprise so their employees and customers can work smarter and live better. AVI-SPL is uniquely  qualified to be this strategic partner with its global stature that enables worldwide delivery and lifecycle support of customers’ entire collaboration ecosystems. 

“Many companies come to SAMA for help with establishing a strategic accounts program,” said Denise Freier, president and CEO of SAMA. “It's incredibly hard to get a program off the ground, but once they do, they have an even bigger task: Scale the program and make sure it’s built for the long haul.

“I've never seen a company evolve its SAM program as quickly and successfully as AVI-SPL, from its initial launch in 2018 to its win this year for Outstanding Mature SAM Program." 

ADI Global Distribution, a leading wholesale distributor of security, AV and low-voltage products, announced it has opened its new global headquarters and welcomed the team's recent return to office. Located just a few miles from its previous headquarters in Melville, NY, the new ADI Support Center site was designed to foster innovation and encourage a collaborative work environment.

The new office, located at 275 Broadhollow Road, Suite 400, Melville, NY, is the home to approximately 120-plus ADI team members across numerous departments including marketing, operations, finance, IT and more. Occupying the fourth floor of the building, the 30,000 square foot area features floor-to-ceiling windows and houses a variety of spaces including individual workstations, meeting rooms, huddle spaces, wellness rooms, a state-of-the art training room, and kitchen area. Additional building amenities available to ADI team members include an onsite cafeteria, fitness center, and electric car charging stations. 

[ADI Unifies Pro AV Portfolio Under ADI Global Distribution Brand]

"Opening our new headquarters is part of ADI's global vision and strategy to modernize our workplaces and optimize our business for continued growth. We're focused on designing work environments that incorporate a collaborative spirit and promote productivity, while having a positive impact on our teams," said Rob Aarnes, president of ADI Global Distribution. "Our Melville Support Center is an important site for ADI as it serves as our global headquarters. And we're excited and proud to welcome our teams back to our new facility."

The new ADI Melville Support Center features an environmentally sustainable design with eco-friendly lighting with natural light, LED bulbs, motion sensors, and fixtures crafted from recycled cardboard, an energy-efficient heating and cooling system, reusable products, water-conserving plumbing fixtures, refillable water stations, energy star appliances, recycle stations, and more. 

[ADI Announces 2021 Supplier Award Recipients]

ADI Support Centers represent the company's corporate offices that provide support to its global business operations. In addition to its new Melville Support Center, ADI recently opened new Support Center sites in Dallas, TX, Oldham, UK, Breda, Netherlands and San Luis Potosi, Mexico, and started construction on remodeling its Louisville, KY Support Center set to reopen later this year. Beyond its Support Center sites, ADI has more than 200 stocking locations to serve customers across North America, EMEA and India and offers online shopping through its Digital Branch and mobile app.

Christie announced its acquisition of assets from  Brass Roots Technologies, an Allen, TX-based technology innovation company specializing in consulting and the engineering design of advanced optics and electronics for high-performance display and imaging systems. All current employees of Brass Roots Technologies have transferred to Christie and the operations will remain in Allen, Texas under the Christie name.

“The purchase of Brass Roots Technologies’ assets will help diversify and advance Christie’s own engineering capabilities,” said Zoran Veselic, president and chief technology officer, Christie. “We welcome Brass Roots Technologies’ talented engineers and design team, who will join our existing teams to explore future technologies together.”

[Christie Laser Projectors Commemorate 75 Years of India’s Independence]

Since its inception in 2009, Brass Roots Technologies has continually been at the forefront of innovation, developing critical technologies that advanced imaging and display solutions to an entirely new level. The company provides system-level perspective, custom engineering design services and licensed IP technology. Its expertise is in developing differentiated solutions that integrate advanced optics, mechanics and electronics and has varied industry knowledge including video, entertainment, imaging, medical, telecommunications, and defense/military imaging.

By joining Christie, the Brass Roots Technologies staff will enhance the engineering offering with a skill set that includes system architecture, optical design and analysis, mechanical design, electronic hardware and FPGA (Field Programmable Gate Array) firmware design, software development, in house CNC fabrication, prototype assembly, and functional tests and verification. The team’s experience also includes DLP, LCD, and LCoS projection systems, LED video walls, digital projection optical systems based on lamps, LED, laser phosphor, and laser illumination, lenses, and ultra-high frame rate projection.

[UK's LEGOLAND Windsor Resort Turns to Christie in 'Flying Theatre']

“We are honored to join Christie in this merging of the minds," added Frank Poradish, founder, Brass Roots Technologies. "We have collaborated with Christie since the start of our business more than 13 years ago, and there is no better fit for us. The synergies between the two organizations will contribute to growing Christie and add to its technology capacity both in the labs and in engineering resources.”

Founded in 1947 by Ben and Dorothy Lowell, Lowell Manufacturing Company, a U.S. manufacturer of professional AV products, announced that it will reach a milestone this year as it celebrates its 75th anniversary.

[SCN Top 50 Systems Integrators 2021]

The company’s first product was a spun aluminum ceiling baffle which originated “sound from the ceiling.” That design was followed by a variety of audio components as the company expanded into developing products for professional AV systems integration. Lowell was awarded a number of patents as unique products were incorporated into the line, which grew to include speaker grilles, acoustic enclosures, speakers and horns, volume controls, switches, and system peripherals like 19-inch racks and cabinets, as well as a variety of accessories for reliable power distribution. The brand flourished as customers came to appreciate the quality that it represented and the spirit of genuine service it endeavored to provide to the industry, building custom configurations when needed for special applications. 

John Lowell is the current president and CEO of Lowell Manufacturing and manages the company alongside brothers Wilhelm Lowell and Tom Lowell. They were pleased to welcome a third generation to the business in 2021 as John’s eldest son, Jarret Lowell, joined the team to focus on new business strategies. “My father would be so happy to see the company he founded and nurtured 75 years ago now include a third generation of the Lowell family," John Lowell reflected. "We continue his legacy of creating unique products coupled with unequalled customer driven service.”

[The Nine 2022: Meet 9 Pro AV Superstars] 

Today Lowell continues much as it began, producing over 95% of its product line with state-of-the-art equipment in the U.S. By keeping a focus on developing products that customers can rely on, with on-time delivery, the company looks to the future and its centennial year.

Peerless-AV announced that it has acquired ADF Visual Display Products of Southern California. Specializing in complex dvLED construction, ADF has engineered and manufactured some of the most prominent, visually stunning, and challenging dvLED deployments of the last decade. Acting as a discreet OEM design and manufacturing partner for two of the industry’s best known dvLED infrastructure companies, ADF has set the standard for excellence in the category.  

“Our dvLED business exploded virtually overnight. We began partnering with ADF on projects where our capacity simply would not allow us to do it in house,” said John Potts CEO of Peerless-AV. “After seeing the quality of the ADF product, for both ourselves as well as another significant name in the industry, we realized that they were the logical addition to our company to facilitate our dynamic growth.” 

[SCN Announces the 2022 Stellar Service Awards]

Some of the most high-profile projects to feature ADF’s engineering and manufacturing expertise include a dvLED video wall at a sports book in Las Vegas. The video wall measures 140 x 12  (4,166 square feet) with a total 1680 dvLED displays, configured as a flat to wall into 90-degree concave curve into a flat to wall, as well as a 73 x 5 conical overhead lobby array, where the displays are trapezoidal.  ADF’s most recent custom dvLED design feat for Peerless-AV is a 183 x 5 (288 feet x 8.86 feet), 915 cabinets, 313.26-degree cylinder, fully floating system attached to a university building wall in Morocco.  

“Peerless-AV has long been the go-to provider as an infrastructure and accessory partner to the best in the industry, managing complex, competitive environments. We look forward to expanding our in-house capabilities to be a more agile and holistic partner for the totality of dvLED infrastructure needs,” said Nick Belcore executive vice president of Peerless-AV.   

[Enjoy Outdoor Smart TVs Year-Round with Neptune by Peerless-AV Partial Sun Series]

Lou Mannick, a distinguished AV industry innovator and founder of ADF is actively at the forefront in developing foundations for dvLED displays. “The booming dvLED market poses new and complex opportunities as the next generation dvLED cabinets evolve to a lighter, more flexible chassis," noted Edward Warner, general manager of ADF. "Lou [Mannick] believes where we once positioned cabinets, we must urgently focus on the new paradigm of positioning pixels. This dovetails with ADF becoming Peerless AV as we turn the page and embark on the next chapter in covering building surfaces with brilliant dvLED pixels."

NewTek, a leader in IP video technology that gives every storyteller a voice through video, announced a partnership with Lanlink distribution—the latest in a long line of distributor additions this year as NewTek continues its global growth.

[And the Award Goes To: NewTek Launches Inaugural TriCaster Awards]

Headquartered in Stockholm, Sweden, Lanlink has been a NewTek platinum partner supporting the Nordic region and empowering video content creators for decades through the evolution of NewTek’s solutions. Now as a distributor, Lanlink can get the latest NewTek products to customers fast, with a streamlined process, leaving no wait time to create video.

“NewTek has always had a strong user base across the Nordics, and with Lanlink as a certified distributor our customers, end users, and future customers have easier, and faster access to our cutting-edge products," stated Barbara Spicek, president and general manager, NewTek. "With the depth and breadth of experience that Lanlink has of our company and solutions, we are confident we will see an expansion of NewTek users across the region, expediting our growth throughout the Nordics."

[NewTek Growth Set to Surge in 2022 After Record Year]

Lanlink will hold a range of NewTek stock in Sweden for quick delivery to the network, including the full portfolio of software-defined video storytelling tools, including the TriCaster family, 3Play video replay systems, and PTZ cameras.

“The demand for video continues to reach unprecedented amounts, and NewTek’s next-generation, user-friendly, accessible, and reliable solutions are always at the top of our customers' lists," remarked Peter Lilja, managing director, Lanlink Distribution. "We wanted to come together to make it as easy as possible for users to integrate NewTek and NDI-native NewTek products into their workflows and are excited for the projects to come with our new partnership. Furthermore, we believe our local experts and support will help strengthen NewTek’s stronghold in the Nordics, better-serving customers regionally."

NSCA, the not-for-profit association representing the commercial integration industry, released its 2022 Compensation & Benefits Report, which is based on data gathered from systems integrators across North America.

Now in its seventh iteration, the report tracks and benchmarks compensation and benefits data for a variety of key positions within the industry, including technical, non-technical, and C-suite roles.

Systems integration firms of all sizes and across all regions responded to a survey that collected information about company background, staffing levels, employee benefits, compensation, travel reimbursement, and salary increases. This survey data was used to develop the 2022 Compensation & Benefits Report.

[Three AV Industry Leaders Honored by NSCA]

“NSCA’s sought-after Compensation & Benefits Report is the industry’s only resource for making informed business decisions about employee salary and benefits packages,” said NSCA executive director Tom LeBlanc. “Especially in this environment—as the industry faces large talent gaps—it’s vital to make important decisions about compensation and benefits based on data. This report will help NSCA members confidently do that.”

This new report contains valuable information to help integrators uncover wage trends, identify fluctuations in compensation, pinpoint employment trends, and determine appropriate wage levels for employees.

[NSCA Electronic Systems Outlook Forecasts Increase in Construction Growth Ahead]

The 2022 Compensation & Benefits Report also covers:

• Staff levels (number of full-time and part-time employees)
• Benefits offered (and associated costs), including health insurance, dental insurance, life insurance, vision plans, disability, retirement, and bonuses
• Compensation for positions ranging from the C-suite to HR, accounting, installation, design, purchasing, marketing, and project management
• Ancillary compensation (bonuses) for sales, administrative, and project management professionals
• Raises for different staff categories
• Business travel reimbursement (mileage, cell phones, expense accounts, per diems, etc.)

NSCA integrator member owners and executives can request access to the report at no cost; the report can also be purchased by approved non-members. Due to the sensitive nature of the report’s information, all requests to access the report will be vetted by NSCA. For more information, start here.

AVIXA has officially opened the doors of AVIXA Xchange to the entire Pro AV industry. AVIXA Xchange is a unique community for the AV industry designed to connect thought leaders, industry-leading solution providers, and innovative manufacturers with AV solution seekers. AVIXA's platform is where expertise and experience are shared, knowledge and connections are gained, news and education are readily available, and communities across every segment of the Pro AV industry interact.

At InfoComm 2022 in Las Vegas on June 8-10, attendees will experience the new platform at AVIXA Xchange Live, booth N2845. AVIXA Xchange Live will be the home for community chats, industry influencer panel discussions, peer networking and more—in short, an in-person version of the online experience offered by the platform.

[InfoComm 2022 Registration Is Open]

“At AVIXA, we wanted to take the networking, learning, business, and camaraderie that occurs at a trade show like InfoComm or ISE and translate that into a digital community that people have access to all year round,” said David Labuskes, CTS, CAE, RCDD, CEO of AVIXA. “AVIXA Xchange is the place for AV professionals to continue learning and connecting to enhance their businesses and careers.”

The content focus of AVIXA Xchange is on solutions, which is the common language between buyers and AV providers. The solutions highlighted in AVIXA Xchange are the fastest growing and most critical in the AV industry based on extensive research conducted by the AVIXA market intelligence team. The current content channels include conferencing and collaboration, content, production, and streaming, digital signage, learning solutions, live events/performance venues, and the business of AV. As solutions continue to evolve, so will the channels. Videos, articles, case studies, and other pieces of content are generated by members of AVIXA Xchange. People can add comments, like, and share the content.

[AVIXA Report: Pro AV Rebounds as Pandemic Fears Fade]

AVIXA Xchange includes an online AV provider directory with in-depth discovery features that match AV buyers with providers that can serve their needs. AV buyers can also view content from solution providers on projects they’ve completed and solutions they offer and begin a conversation on AVIXA Xchange. AV providers can utilize the platform to help influence the buyer’s journey from beginning to end. They can contribute their insight into trend discussions, promote their expertise to a broad and diverse audience, and create actionable sales leads through content and interaction.

Individuals can promote their skills through their profiles and content they share to elevate their personal brand, make new connections, and seek new career opportunities. They can also discover and engage with thought leaders and influencers.

[AVIXA Report: AV Sales Growth Moderates at End of 2021]

AVIXA Xchange also features rooms, forums for users to conduct micro conversations on a wide range of topics, such as CTS study groups, jobs, and industry events. There are also rooms for regions around the world and rooms for conversations in Spanish, Portuguese, Italian, and additional languages.

“It’s vital to regularly engage with professionals in your industry throughout the year—not just at an annual event or a scheduled meeting,” said Sarah Joyce, chief global officer, AVIXA. “AVIXA Xchange is a digital world for maintaining those relationships and building new ones. And digital knows no bounds—the global AV community is at your fingertips on AVIXA Xchange.”

It is with great sadness that Electrosonic announced that co-founder, Robert Simpson passed away peacefully at the age of 82. Mr. Simpson, who went by Bob, was an innovator and an industry icon who dedicated his professional life to understanding and expanding the audiovisual industry through a vision to invent and use technology in creative ways to build lasting experiences where people live, work and play. 

The world has lost a visionary and a kind and thoughtful man. Simpson shaped and formed what has become the contemporary audiovisual and experiential technology industry; it’s now commonplace to expect jaw-dropping, large-scale, and complex audiovisual installations in theme parks, museums, corporate campuses, and cultural landmarks, but that wasn’t always the case. There always has to be a first to do something extraordinary and Simpson was the pioneer that took the first step. 

“It is heartbreaking to have heard the news this week," commented Ewan Smith, Electrosonic’s global president and managing director. "My heartfelt condolences to Bob’s family and his loved ones and to every individual that had the privilege to meet, to grab a drink with, or if you’re lucky enough, to work with Bob. We have lost such an incredible soul and an icon in the industry.”

Simpson co-founded Electrosonic on March 3, 1964, alongside Denis Naisbitt and Michael Ray. Electrosonic’s origins were humble and the three co-founders very first office consisted of two unfurnished rooms above a potato stall in the Greenwich Vegetable Market. With the leadership of Simpson, Electrosonic grew exponentially to become a global powerhouse and go-to technology advisor for the world’s biggest theme parks, entertainment figures and Fortune 500 organizations with offices in the UK, U.S., Europe, Middle East, and Asia. From its inception up until 2004, Simpson served as Chairman of Electrosonic and from 2005-2015 served as a director of and advisor to the international Electrosonic Group up until his retirement in 2016. 

“Of all the people I have known, Bob, through his ability to combine deep professionalism with such a good sense of what it means to be a human being, has had a special position in my life as a valued person to look up to,” said Philip Aminoff, chairman of Helvar Merca Oy Ab (the ownership group of Electrosonic).

To complement his massive contributions to Electrosonic, Simpson was an industry figure, publishing several books including "Videowalls—The Book of the Big Electronic Image" and "Lighting Control—Technology and Applications" as well as "Electrosonic—50 Years on the Audio-Visual Front Line." These many contributions to the industry led to his inclusion as a life member to the SMPTE, a fellow of the BKSTS, being awarded the InfoComm Distinguished Achievement award, and in 2017 awarded an MBE (Member of the Order of the British Empire) for services to the audiovisual industry. 

Through his work, leadership, and efforts to advance Electrosonic and the audiovisual industry, Simpson touched the lives of thousands of people around the world. His legacy, influence, and inspiration will forever be felt with his Electrosonic family and beyond.

Inspired by the depth of emotion he witnessed at vinyl listening sessions organized during his tenure at the Bridgestone Museum of Arts in Tokyo, Hideo Matsushita was determined to enable more people to experience the warmth of analog listening. In a small Shinjuku apartment, he established Audio-Technica and began developing cartridges. His first two products, the AT-1 and AT-3, achieved success and enabled Hideo to expand his business. He opened a larger headquarters in Machida, where the company still operates today.

April 17, 2022, marked 60 years since Hideo created his first cartridge and Audio-Technica will mark this occasion by reaffirming its commitment to analog. Focusing on a human-centered approach to the process of generating sound, the company sees analog as an enjoyment and appreciation for audio that doesn’t alter, despite the rapid changes throughout history.

[Audio-Technica Launches New Beamforming Ceiling Array Microphone]

Alongside cartridges, Audio-Technica began producing headphones in 1974 and microphones in 1978—beginning every process with a transducer and aiming to deliver a pure, natural sound. At the core of every product is the art of analog, as a delicate vibration is transformed into sound—both in the listening and recording processes.  

Kazuo Matsushita, son of Hideo, became president in 1993, and the business continued to expand, opening offices throughout the world and developing iconic products such as the modern VM series of cartridges, the ATH-M50x headphones and the AT2020 microphone. 

[Beijing’s Winter Sports Spectacular is Broadcast with over 2,300 Audio-Technica Microphones]

Today, Audio-Technica is an integral part of the audio industry, with products used at global events, on screen, in studios and in homes—retaining the “audio for all” philosophy and ensuring future generations can experience the joy of analog.  

The brand will celebrate its 60th anniversary with a series of events across the world on the theme of analog living. “It is an honor to provide a quality audio experience to millions of people throughout the world," said president Kazuo Matsushita. "What begins as a simple vibration—a subtle movement—results in an emotional connection, whether that be when listening deeply to an album or sharing your voice with the world.”

Biamp, a leading supplier of professional audiovisual solutions, announced that the company has been selected as a finalist for the Technology Company of the Year, Enterprise Level, in the Technology Association of Oregon (TAO)'s 2022 Oregon Technology Awards. The annual program celebrates excellence and achievement in the region's technology industry by recognizing companies for the Oregon Technology Company of the Year (based on seven different size categories), as well as the Influential Technology Company Not Headquartered in Oregon, Most Disruptive Technology, and the People's Choice Award.

[Biamp Roadmap 2022]

"Biamp has been part of Oregon's technology community for more than 45 years," said Rashid Skaf, Biamp president, CEO, and co-chairman. "As customers continue to seek technology innovation, we remain steadfast in our commitment to serve and expand as a technology leader. This award is a great recognition of our effort and role in the region as a strong technology business and employer."

[Biamp Wins Four 2022 Red Dot Awards for Outstanding Product Design]

Located just outside of Portland, Biamp is a major employer in the Beaverton/Tigard area, where the company operates its global corporate headquarters and manufacturing facilities for its professional audiovisual hardware and software products. Biamp serves customers globally in the corporate, education, government, house of worship, retail, and hospitality sectors, enabling clear communication and connection around the world. In addition to its technology leadership, the company is invested in many regional philanthropic causes, including the title sponsorship of the annual PDX Jazz Festival, as well as support of PDX Pop Now!, Rock 'N' Roll Camp for Girls, Habitat for Humanity, and Young Audiences.

[EXCLUSIVE: Biamp’s Rashid Skaf is Going to “Kick A$$” in the UC Space]

The finalists were selected from a range of industries within the various award categories. The winners will be revealed at the Oregon Technology Awards ceremony on May 3, at the Oregon Convention Center in Portland, Oregon.

"For over 30 years, the Oregon Technology Awards has recognized the leading tech companies in the region," said Skip Newberry, president and CEO at TAO. "Each of the finalists have significantly contributed to our thriving technology community, and on May 3 we will celebrate all of these companies and their recent successes."

Bluesound Professional, the premium distributed commercial audio brand is excited to announce the addition of its latest rep firm in Southern California and Southern Nevada—Quantum Sales and Technology—a California Corporation.

“By partnering with Quantum Sales and Technology, Bluesound Professional will grow its sales in the crucially important Southern California/Southern Nevada regions," commented Craig Cooper, Bluesound Professional’s North American sales manager. "This moves strengthens our representation in the territory and will allow us to continue our strong sales growth throughout United States, as people come back into public spaces and the retail and hospitality markets rebound after the pandemic. Omar [Arnold, principal, Quantum Sales & Technology] and his team quickly understood the unique value that Bluesound Professional brings to the space and we in turn were highly impressed with the team’s enthusiasm, technical ability and connections in the market.”

[Bluesound Professional Introduces a New, Complete Stereo Solution]

Quantum Sales and Technology represents manufacturers as a sales and marketing corporation. Founded on traditional values, they strive for long term, mutually beneficial business relationships with their manufacturers and customers with the goal of increasing awareness of how high-quality audio systems should sound. While headquartered in Santa Ana, CA, they have been able to represent premium, world-class audio brands through the collective talents of their team.

Strengthening the representation of its entire product portfolio of Pro audio, conferencing, video collaboration, and AV networking solutions across a range of vertical markets, ClearOne announced the appointment of Sound Marketing West to serve as its newest manufacturer representative in California, Nevada, and Hawaii. The appointment is effective immediately, according to ClearOne president and CEO Zee Hakimoglu.

[ClearOne Roadmap 2022]

“Sound Marketing West has the sales professionals, channel experience, product knowledge, training and support resources to expertly represent our entire product portfolio to all of the resellers and distributors they serve,” Hakimoglu said. “Their consultative approach to serving their customers with the right solutions for channel-specific applications will drive business growth of all our products across all target markets. We’re thrilled to partner with Gary [Lee, president, Sound Marketing West] and his team for this important set of states.”

[ClearOne on Conferencing Audio]

“The successful manufacturer’s rep understands how to apply the right product solutions to specific customer needs in each vertical market, and ClearOne is unique in its ability to deliver a complete range of award-winning Pro AV, Conferencing, Video Collaboration, and AV Networking solutions for nearly every possible application," Sound Marketing West president Gary Lee explained. "We are excited to add this market leader to the companies we represent, and we look forward to working closely with the entire ClearOne sales team to take their product line to more customers than ever before in the states we serve.”

Xyte, a Hardware-as-a-Service (HaaS) solution leader, which is bringing a fundamental shift in the way hardware manufacturing ecosystems operate, announced its global expansion today with the launch of dedicated operations in North America. The company is strategically moving to meet the fast-growing demand for its as-a-Service enablement platform.

With Xyte’s first-of-its-kind Connected Device Management Platform (CDMP), hardware manufacturers and integrators now have one suite of tools to turn their products into services, and quickly go to market with as-a-Service offerings and transact recurring revenue at scale.

[Xyte Extends HaaS Cloud Platform with Field Operations App]

The company’s U.S. office will be led by Xyte’s new vice president of sales, Andrew Gross.

Gross comes to Xyte with over a decade of experience driving revenue growth and building successful sales teams. Most recently, he served as VP of Enterprise Sales and in other leadership roles at Crestron Electronics, where he oversaw the video collaborations and IoT cloud business, created go-to-market strategies, and formed new divisions within the company.

“Xyte is transforming the way hardware manufacturers, integrators, and end-users do business and creating tremendous new growth opportunities across the entire ecosystem,” said Gross. “I am thrilled to join such a disruptive company.

“The digital transformation, changing markets, ageing equipment, and customers’ demand for greater flexibility are just a few reasons companies need to act and operate quickly. Xyte’s as-a-Service enablement platform modernizes the industry, allows companies to get to the cloud faster than ever before, and provides dynamic management capabilities to continuously keep products up to date with the latest and greatest features. I look forward to working with partners in the US and globally, and supporting Xyte’s ambitious growth strategy.”

[Xyte, SDVoE Alliance Announce Partnership]

“Andrew brings a wealth of sales management experience to the role. His forward-thinking, pioneering approach has been demonstrated throughout his career and we’re ecstatic to have him join our growing team to lead the US operations,” said Xyte’s co-founder and CEO Omer Brookstein. “Our presence in North America will enable us to accelerate our growth while continuing to demonstrate category leadership and bring digital transformation to the manufacturing ecosystem.”

PPDS, the exclusive global provider of Philips professional displays and digital signage solutions, announced its partnership with AVIXA-affiliated software firm, D-Tools, to offer the highest levels of choice and visibility of its products to AV integrators, for faster and more cost-efficient decision-making and installations.

Used by more than 7,000 companies worldwide, D-Tools’ award-winning D-Tools Cloud and System Integrator (SI) software solutions help streamline and simplify management across all aspects of an integrator’s business, including sales, system design, documentation, procurement, installation, back-office management, and service. The use of D-Tools software helps to improve operating efficiency and increase profitability.

[PPDS Upgrades Luxury German Hotel and Spa with 183 Philips MediaSuite TVs]

As a new member of the D-Tools i3 Program, PPDS’ entire library of Philips professional TV, direct view LED, interactive displays and digital signage solutions will be visible and at the forefront of the decision-making process for system integrators, providing up-to-date product information and real time supplier/dealer-specific pricing, for use in the critical stages of sales, system design, and field service management for their client engagements.

Integrators and PPDS dealers utilizing D-Tools software benefit by:

• Gaining immediate access to a wide range of products with real-time, dealer-specific pricing for use in project proposals, system designs, and purchase orders from within the D-Tools Product Library.
• Having the ability to connect to their brand’s account from within D-Tools’ software, and quickly source products (complete with unique pricing tier) for project proposals and procurement.
• Achieving a friction-free and highly efficient sales process with real-time proposal and purchase order generation, e-sign capabilities, and mobile payment processing.

Find the right solution

In addition to residential systems, D-Tools serves needs from small office or corporate installs to multi-million-dollar applications, including commercial AV, security, higher education, government entities, and more. Ensuring integrators have the right tools, solutions, and information to meet the exact needs and requirements of their clients, while saving significant time and costs on product research and compatibility, all of which PPDS will now play a significant part in.

[PPDS, Key Digital Partner Up to Maximize Customer Experience in Bars & Restaurants]

“With so much choice in the market, it can be almost impossible for system integrators and customers to have full knowledge and visibility of every possible solution available to them," said Vince Schuster, commercial vice president at PPDS. "On a daily basis, our sales teams and our partners are faced with 'if only we knew' scenarios around discovering and learning about our solutions. Whether that’s improving collaboration in classrooms and meeting rooms, the upgrading of a TV system in a hotel, or managing the digital signage in a retail store, bar or restaurant. Working with D-Tools, our full range of solutions will have better visibility and reach for a greater number of system integrators, helping to ensure the right solutions are made available to the right customers. That’s a win-win for everyone.”

[Latest Release of D-Tools System Integrator Software Now Available]

“D-Tools’ partner brands help ensure their products are chosen for each project, while helping their customers easily and accurately manage their product catalog and win more projects," added Barrie McCorkle, director of supplier programs at D-Tools. "Choice is everything and can be the different between surpassing a customer’s needs and barely meeting them. Our software helps to ensure they are able to bring the very best solutions, and we’re delighted to have PPDS on board and be part of this process.”

The SDVoE Alliance, a nonprofit consortium of technology providers collaborating to standardize the adoption of Ethernet to transport AV signals in professional AV environments, announces PTN has joined the SDVoE Alliance as an adopting member. 

PTN Electronics is a contract manufacturer that has been focused on Pro AV engineering and manufacturing since the year 2008. Empowered by the latest technologies, PTN provides OEM and ODM services supported by its strong engineering team, SMT production lines, and metal production lines. Originating in Shenzhen, PTN has a factory in a TAA country and customer service located in the United States. “Customer satisfaction is our core pursuit.” 

[Wyrestorm Now a Contributing Member of SDVoE Alliance]

“We are pleased to welcome PTN Electronics to the SDVoE Ecosystem and look forward to their participation in the SDVoE Alliance community,” said Justin Kennington, president of the SDVoE Alliance. 

“IP Streaming no doubt has a bright future and lots of applications, and SDVoE is so far the best IP technology I’ve ever seen—no delay, no compression," said Byron Tu, general manager. "We have assisted customers with large installations with a few hundred endpoints thanks to its video wall and multiview functions.”

[Xyte, SDVoE Alliance Announce Partnership]

In recent years, industry demands for remote data collection and real-time content management have dramatically increased AV-over-IP applications. AV-over-IP technology supports high-quality audio/video transmission over long distances without latency, making it ideal for content streaming applications. All AV distribution and processing applications that demand zero-latency and uncompromised video can benefit from SDVoE technology, which provides an end-to-end hardware and software platform for AV extension, switching, processing, and control through advanced chipset technology, common control APIs, and interoperability. SDVoE network architectures are based on off-the-shelf Ethernet switches, thus offering substantial cost savings and greater system flexibility and scalability over traditional approaches, such as point-to-point extension and circuit-based AV matrix switching.

ADI Global Distribution, a leading wholesale distributor of security, AV and low-voltage products, announced it will unify its Pro AV products distribution offering under the ADI Global Distribution brand. Following the integration of its newly acquired Shoreview Distribution business, ADI will integrate its Herman Pro AV business this spring. Herman Integration Services (HIS), the AV labor subcontracting services, will retain its brand and continue to serve as a value-added service available through ADI.

"We identified Pro AV as a growing category for ADI and our customers, and we continue to make significant investments to broaden our reach and strengthen our market position," said Cynthia Menna, vice president and general manager, Pro AV at ADI. "Unifying under one solid brand and providing a central source for our Pro AV products portfolio will make it easier for customers to leverage ADI's scale and resources to fuel new growth."

[ADI Announces 2021 Supplier Award Recipients]

Building upon ADI's strong global legacy of delivering value, the integration extends the company's full value proposition to all Pro AV customers across its North America business segment. With 115 branch locations and 10 strategically located distribution centers across the region, customers will benefit from the availability of more brands, more inventory, more services, and more support. Additionally, customers can browse and purchase anytime from ADI through its Digital Branch or ADI app. Whether shopping in a branch, online, or through the mobile app, customers can expect the same seamless omnichannel shopping experience at ADI. 

In addition to its product offering, ADI provides an array of support to help customers discover new opportunities and make installations easier and more efficient. HIS helps customers expand their AV capabilities and take on more projects by subcontracting AV labor. With HIS, customers have access to full-time technicians, AV engineering, programming, CAD services, and project management. Additional services available through ADI include systems design, IP programming, project registration, remote monitoring, cybersecurity, training, and more.

 [SCN Top 50 Systems Integrators 2021] 

"At ADI, we’re committed to building the foundation to support decades of Pro AV growth for our customers, and for our industry. This change represents the next step in our strategy to make ADI the indispensable Pro AV partner of choice," said Menna. 

It is with deep sorrow that QSC announced the passing of friend, former colleague, and industry veteran, Scott Lombardo on Wednesday April 6, 2022, after a long illness.

During his nine-year tenure at QSC, Lombardo led key initiatives for the company, both as director, global e-commerce and most recently as regional director, live sound. A skilled and highly regarded senior leader in the company’s sales efforts, Lombardo will be most fondly remembered for his strength, kindness to others, and his boundless passion for building and nurturing lasting relationships.

Over his more than 30-year career in the professional audio and music industries, Lombardo held a variety of sales and executive positions at companies including Fishman Acoustic Amplification, Gibson, Fender, Mesa Boogie, Sam Ash Music, and Scotch Plains Music Center.

“Scott and I worked together for six years, with him reporting to me for four of those. After about a year of him working for me, we were kind of butting heads with each other, “ said Perry Celia, QSC professional director of sales, North America. “One day he said to me, ‘As my manager, don’t just ask or tell me what you need, inspire me—that’s how I roll.’ That one line from Scott changed everything; it completely changed my relationship with him and the relationship with my entire team. He taught me that everyone needs to be inspired in their work. From there we became close friends; I will miss talking to him several times a day, about business or personal issues. Scott was just always there. He will really be missed by all of us at QSC.”
 
QSC extends its heartfelt condolences to Scott’s wife, Jenn, and the extended Lombardo family at this difficult time. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to Lombardo's programs, VMAT (Veterans Martial Arts Training) www.v-mat.org and Compassionate Care ALS www.ccals.org.

Just Add Power, a leader in AV-over-IP distribution, has partnered with NETGEAR, the leading provider of networking products that power businesses both large and small. With this partnership, NETGEAR's M4250 Series of AV-managed switches and Just Add Power's AV-over-IP solutions have been tested and certified to be interoperable, ensuring installers can quickly and reliably configure, deploy, and complete AV-over-IP projects with ease.

[Just Add Power Roadmap 2022]

"Just Add Power was built to provide installers with an incredibly simple yet innovative way to install AV-over-IP systems," said Ed Qualls, CEO and founder of Just Add Power. "At every step of our product development, we've worked to maintain our modular approach that allows projects to be scaled infinitely in size and indefinitely into the future. This certification honors our continued commitment to that approach and ensures that integrators won't be tripped up by complex IP configurations. NETGEAR is one of the most recognized IP brands, and integrators can trust their switch is ready to leverage all the benefits we've built into our devices within their projects."

[Road to ISE: Just Add Power]

Strengthening Just Add Power's multicast switching protocol support, NETGEAR's M4250 line of AV switches are optimized to work with Just Add Power's solutions. The pre-built NETGEAR configuration profile, available from Just Add Power's AMP software, eliminates the typically time-consuming switch configuration tasks. With simple drag-and-drop interfacing, the profile automatically sets up IP addresses and channels, reducing complexity and labor while facilitating interoperability between Just Add Power devices, sources, and switches utilizing the same network.

"For years, Just Add Power has been at the forefront of AV-over-IP, making them a natural partner in the Pro AV industry," said Laurent Masia, director of product line management for managed switches and Pro AV engineering services at NETGEAR. "In addition to offering installers tested and certified switches that provide a reliable foundation for their installs, integrators have access to our network design services and installation support. We, like Just Add Power, are committed to ensuring IP-based projects are completed without a hitch."

e|spaces is a thriving company that provides meeting rooms along with co-working or private and collaborative office spaces tailored to a work-from-home and scaled-down corporate work paradigm in Tennessee (with five Nashville-area locations as well as facilities in Knoxville and Chattanooga) and in Orlando, FL. Beyond mere space and furniture, e|spaces provides entrepreneurs, small businesses, and corporate teams a sophisticated technological infrastructure including Wi-Fi, IT support, flat-screen monitors, and conference and collaboration hardware. 

Nashville-based workspace technology specialists Cabling Innovations, which performed the majority of e|spaces installations, has introduced solutions from Key Digital—a leading innovator in AV-over-IP solutions—into e|spaces huddle rooms, podcast production suites and conference rooms.  

[Key Digital Introduces New Seamless Matrix Switcher]

“Key Digital offers a lot of great products that make our job a lot easier,” said Cabling Innovations AV manager Jameson Christian. Along with Key Digital encoders/decoders, HDMI and USB-over-CAT extenders and video processors, e|spaces facilities ubiquitously utilize Key Digital’s KD-BYOD4K Wireless Presentation Gateway to cost-effectively facilitate collaboration through a Bring Your Own Device motif that allows meeting participants to easily share up to four simultaneous content streams from laptops, tablets, and phones running on Windows, Mac OSX, Chrome OS, iOS, Android OS or supporting Chromecast. 

“The BYOD has been such a blessing for a lot of different reasons," Christian added. "It’s user-friendly. There are no devices on the table that you have to connect with, and the video quality is uncanny. That it’s nearly less than half the price of a less capable competitive device helps sell our customers on them.” Christian also points out that, as the BYOD serves as a network host, the customer’s internal network is securely out of reach of meeting participants, yet they can still access the internet through the gateway. 

[Arkansas Courthouse Banishes Pandemic Disruptions with Key Digital Technology]

After Christian and his team installed KD-BYOD4Ks in their first e|spaces installation, he said, “I kept getting calls back from the owner saying, ‘This thing is awesome.’ For the latest e|spaces project we needed 20 more of them; the owner wants them all over his facilities.” 

Christian says that there’s little need for tech support with the KD-BYOD4K. With Chromecast and iOS devices, native support means just a swipe mirrors a device to a flat screen or projected display with no software download at all. “Since we’ve installed them, they’ve had nothing but success. Not all TVs work with all different devices, but with the BYOD, anybody can literally walk in with any type of device they want to connect.” 

[Key Digital Offers Solutions for a Reconnecting World]

Cabling Innovations has also installed a Key Digital-enabled video wall for e|spaces, incorporating nine 55-inch bezel-less LG televisions. With Key Digital’s Compass Control Pro software on an iPad, Christian shared, e|spaces can control the video wall and more, straight from the tablet. He also gives high marks to Key Digital’s support team—“Every time we reach out to Key Digital for support, they’ve always got our back.” 

Key Digital signal extenders also play an important role in Cabling Innovations’ installations for e|spaces, reducing cabling costs and facilitating longer cable runs than possible with native signal cables. “Key Digital,” said Christian, “has saved me a lot of headache, a lot of manpower, and a lot of valuable time with their products. 

“The system is so easy to use once it’s implemented. I get excited to know that the client’s happy with the product that they bought and that they don’t have buyer’s remorse on anything.” 

Qumu Corporation, a leading provider of cloud-based enterprise video technology, and LiveU, a leader in live video streaming and remote production solutions, announced a reseller agreement that will better enable their respective enterprise customers to produce, deliver, store and distribute broadcast-quality video, including live video from corporate events. Under the terms of the agreement, Qumu will become an authorized reseller of the full LiveU portfolio, with a particular emphasis on LiveU’s higher-end offerings for enterprise applications, facilitating new video-based business opportunities.

The agreement expands Qumu’s ability to support enterprise customers wanting to produce and stream live events reliably and securely over the public internet. LiveU customers who engage Qumu will gain access to the storage, content management, distribution, and analytics capabilities of Qumu’s Video Engagement platform.

[LiveU Hires Sports Industry Veteran and Award-Winning Editor, Doug Price]

“Remote work has driven a dramatic increase in demand from our corporate customers for the ability to stream live, broadcast-quality video to geographically dispersed employees, customers, dealers, and other business partners,” said Rose Bentley, chief operating officer for Qumu. “LiveU excels at delivering live HD/4K video, anytime, anywhere, over the public internet on ultra-low latency contribution encoders. We have already successfully collaborated with LiveU on high stakes live events for a major automaker and one of the country’s largest healthcare companies and look forward to deepening this already productive partnership.”

LiveU pioneered IP bonding, a mobile and affordable technology that allows video to be live streamed from anywhere with a cellular signal or internet connection, enabling live transmission for newsgathering, remote production, and enhanced business communications. LiveU Reliable Transport (LRT), developed by LiveU over the past decade, is used extensively for contribution, backhaul, and distribution over the public internet and is now optimized for 5G networks, as well.

“LiveU has built mission-critical live video solutions for the top-tier news and sports markets, and now we’re bringing this technology to the enterprise space,” said Mike Savello, vice president of sales, LiveU Americas. “As we’ve seen during the pandemic, it is vital for enterprise customers to uphold business continuity. Live video affords opportunities to communicate internally and externally, promote the brand, conduct QA, and engage with employees in real-time—from any location. We continue to enhance the LiveU platform with new capabilities to make it fit the needs of the corporate environment and look forward to ongoing collaborations with Qumu.”

[MVCC, LiveU Partner to Bring Live Video Solutions to Canada Market]

LiveU recently added Air Control, a “virtual green room” solution that meets the growing needs of corporate customers who need to orchestrate live events involving multiple on-air presenters in multiple locations using different devices. “Air Control can help our enterprise customers use their existing teams and technical infrastructure to produce flawless live events,” Bentley said.

LiveU can also equip corporate communications, marketing communications, and in-house video production teams with the technology to remotely control mobile, one-touch production resources to streamline quick turn live broadcasts from a C-suite office, for example. “With our equipment in a Remote Production workflow, there is no need for a full on-site production crew,” said George Klippel, LiveU’s director of channel sales, North America. “Simply send a camera person with a LiveU unit to the office, assembly line, or other corporate environment, turn on the LiveU unit and transmit live content back to the production studio or control room in another location. We make it easy and affordable to develop internal and external content for corporate entities.”

[The Head of the Charles Regatta Makes a Successful Broadcast Return with LiveU Systems Leading the Way]

“We are thrilled to welcome Qumu as a LiveU reseller,” Klippel added. “The combination of Qumu’s engagement and analytics tools with our capabilities to deliver broadcast-quality video securely, reliably, and cost-effectively is a compelling package for any organization that needs to deliver a high impact message at scale.”

Verrex, an AVIXA APEx‐certified global leader in designing, integrating, supporting, managing, and deploying audio visual and unified communication systems and services, is celebrating 75 years of business success.

[AVIXA Report: Pro AV Rebounds as Pandemic Fears Fade]

A multi-generational company, Verrex was founded in 1947 by Thomas G. Berry who started the company in his garage. Initially named New Jersey Communications Corp, Verrex began as a distributed-background music company. Berry purchased analog telephone lines and ran extra ones to his home so that hotel lobbies could dial in and distribute background music.

Verrex’s clientele grew from local businesses to larger auditoriums and stadium-sized venues. In 1976, Verrex created the world’s largest stadium sound system at the time for the original Giants Stadium in New Jersey. Verrex also had a large presence in Atlantic City, N.J., during the 1970s providing audio distribution, background music, paging, and lighting for many casinos.

[Flexibility at Forefront as Stadiums, Arenas Welcome Back Fans]

In the 1980s, Verrex expanded to deliver AV and UC solutions and products across multiple geographic locations completing international project in Saudi Arabia, followed by projects in Egypt, South Korea, and Spain. Currently, Verrex has offices located in corporate hubs including New York, Boston, Houston, Los Angeles, London, Hong Kong, and Shanghai, supported by a six-continent allied network.

Over the decades, Verrex has expanded and transformed along with each technological advance to provide the best AV solutions for its client. Additionally, Verrex launched AV Onsite Staffing services and expanded their Global Managed Services to include remote support and monitoring. Currently, Verrex’s top three markets are corporate, finance, and healthcare. In 2021, Verrex completed 275 commercial projects.

[SCN Top 50 Integrators for 2021]

One of things Verrex’s CEO, Thomas Berry IV is most proud of is the company’s agility to thrive and adapt to unexpected challenges over the years. “Whether it was shifting our work approach during the COVID-19 pandemic or weathering economic recessions, Verrex has been able to roll with and ride out every challenge to continue to prosper and provide our clients with the best solutions,” said Berry IV.

Family is at the heart of Verrex. As a third generation, family-owned business, Verrex prides itself on caring for its clients and employees like they are family providing personalized services and extra care. The Berry’s multigenerational leadership has ensured Verrex's family-centric mentality.

“I am grateful to my grandparents for having the entrepreneurial spirit to start Verrex 75 years ago,” said Berry IV. “I am so proud of the long list of employees that have passed through our doors over the years. Their dedication, innovation, and passion for providing our clients with the best AV solutions are the reasons why Verrex is a global leader. I am excited for the next 75 years and thank our clients for putting their trust in us to help their businesses transform and grow.”

Verrex is celebrating this significant milestone throughout the year by hosting special events for employees and clients, working with suppliers to create partnerships saluting 75 years, giving back to the community, and creating unique marketing and social media campaigns and videos highlighting this momentous milestone.

NewTek, a leader in IP-based video technology and part of the Vizrt Group, announced significant growth with a total 39% increase across the global business as it reviews 2021 and sets the groundwork for continued success in 2022. 

Building on the continued growth since the Vizrt Group acquisition, NewTek has doubled its business due to the strong combination of the increase in demand for robust, next-generation video technologies that are brought to market via carefully selected expert channel partners. Additionally, NewTek has continued to grow its partner network in 2022 with distributors appointed across Asia and India, the United Kingdom, and Europe.  

[Vizrt Group Announces Future-Facing NDI Advisory Board]

“Since joining NewTek in 2019, I have been in constant awe of the team and their passion and drive to innovate and deliver outstanding products to support our customers via our exceptional channel network," stated Barbara Spicek, president and general manager of NewTek. "The growth we are seeing is a result of this, and one that is even more impressive in the context of the turbulent last few years.” 

[NewTek Introduces PTZ3 PTZ Camera with NDI|HX 3 Support]

“Our partner relationships are, for me, one of the main strengths of NewTek," said Michael Hallén, CEO Vizrt Group.  Distributors, channel partners, systems integrators and others, all play a crucial part in bringing our innovations to market and putting them in front of the customers – they deliver local expertise that complements our global scale.” 

NewTek has also reinvigorated its partner offering with its support business doubling since 2020, and NewTek University awarding diplomas and certifications to hundreds of distributors, systems integrators, partners, and other solutions specialists. In 2022, NewTek has more of these partners than ever before, helping us support the creation of great content, and delivering more stories, better told. 

Nevada and California resellers waiting to experience first-hand the latest amazing offerings, now shipping, from ClearOne will have the opportunity to do just that in April as the 2022 ClearOne Re-Connections Tour picks up steam with a swing through Nevada and California on the following dates:

• April 7-8 in Reno, NV
• April 11-15 in the Sacramento, CA area
• April 18-22 in the San Francisco Bay area
• April 25-29 in the Southern California area

[ClearOne on Conferencing Audio]

It’s a winning solution for all to invite customers to hear, see, and experience ClearOne innovation in action with demonstrations of products like:

• DIALOG 10 USB wireless microphone
• CONVERGENCE Cloud AV Manager unified software platform to monitor, control, and audit ClearOne AV products and services
• UNITE 200 Pro Camera with 20x zoom
• VERSA Mediabar all-in-one

[Google Certifies ClearOne Versa Lite CT for Google Meet]

The 36-foot-long ClearOne Re-Connections Trailer brings the company’s newest conferencing, collaboration, and streaming solutions directly to commercial AV practitioners who can’t always travel to larger trade shows and conferences. Every tour stop includes presentations, training sessions, networking opportunities, and engaging demonstrations of ClearOne solutions.

The Audio Engineering Society has announced the adoption and publication of AES75-2022, “AES standard for acoustics: Measuring loudspeaker maximum linear sound levels using noise.” The new standard addresses the need for a practical and cohesive procedure for the prediction of loudspeaker performance. AES75 is the result of extensive work by the AES Standards Committee’s SC-04-03-A Task Group, co-chaired by Merlijn van Veen (senior technical support and education specialist at Meyer Sound) and Roger Schwenke, Ph.D. (Meyer Sound senior scientist and innovation steward).

“The work of the drafting group was deliberate and thoughtful as they carefully refined the standard,” said AES standards chair Bruce Olson. “AES75 will no doubt join the most impactful standards that the Society has published in its long history of providing the audio industry with critical tools for analyzing the performance of audio equipment and ensuring interoperability.”

[Eventide's Factor and Agnello Receive AES Gold Medals]

Predictive evaluation of loudspeaker performance based on published specifications has traditionally been challenging due to inconsistencies in both measurement procedures and in how measured parameters are reported. “Until now,” explained Schwenke, “reading an SPL number on a datasheet often inspired more questions than answers regarding test signals used and procedures for measurement. Most important to the end user is how the loudspeaker will perform with typical audio signals and whether the numbers can be compared apples-to-apples with numbers from one datasheet to another.

“AES75 addresses these issues,” Schwenke continued, “by providing a detailed procedure as well as a specific test signal, M-Noise, whose RMS and peak levels as functions of frequency have been shown to better represent typical program material. Furthermore, AES75 is designed to be independently verifiable, using analyzers and microphones typically used by audio professionals. By being independently verifiable, AES75 provides system specifiers and users a much more enforceable metric to use in quotes and architectural specs.”

The M-Noise test signal is based on Meyer Sound’s analysis of hundreds of music selections spanning all genres. The procedures documented in AES75 provide measurement of maximum linear sound levels by incrementally increasing playback levels until the magnitude or coherence of a loudspeaker’s acoustic reproduction of the M-Noise test signal reaches an unacceptable state. The AES75 test procedures cover performance measurements of both self-powered and externally powered loudspeakers. 

[SCN Top 50 Systems Integrators 2021]

Credit for the development of AES75 is owed to the large task group, AES’s standards management and to Meyer Sound’s original work, shared van Veen. “The chairs would like to acknowledge the nearly 80 task group members who represent all market verticals such as, but not limited to, automotive, consumer electronics, pro audio, post-production, and cinema,” he said. “For more than two years—during a pandemic—we met more than 50 times, every other week, which is extraordinary given the circumstances. Special recognition goes to the AES, Bruce Olson, Richard Cabot [AES standards manager], and Steve Hutt [recent co-chair AES Technical Council], as well as the SC-04-03 parent committee we report to for their continued support and guidance. Finally, the chairs would like to express gratitude to John and Helen Meyer and Meyer Sound where M-Noise and its former companion procedure originated.”

Meyer Sound applauds adoption of new AES75 standard 

Meyer Sound welcomes the adoption and publication of AES75-2022, “AES Standard for Acoustics: Measuring loudspeaker maximum linear sound levels using noise.” The company recognizes that the new standard, which includes the M-Noise test signal and an independently verifiable test procedure, marks a long-awaited breakthrough in the analysis and objective comparison of loudspeaker output levels.

[Taiwan Traditional Theatre Center is Transformed by Meyer Sound Constellation Install]

“Having a common and clearly defined test procedure coupled with a test signal that reflects real-world applications is of enormous benefit to audio professionals,” said John Meyer, president and CEO of Meyer Sound. “It not only allows users to verify the performance limits of their current systems, but also lets them make meaningful, apples-to-apples comparisons of published data for different loudspeakers.”

Modern Campus, a leading modern learner engagement platform in the higher-education industry, launched Modern Campus Get Connected at the NASPA 2022 Annual Conference. Get Connected is the ideal solution to simplify volunteer and civic engagement on higher education campuses and is a result of an agreement with Galaxy Digital, a volunteer management solution provider, that allows Modern Campus to leverage its expertise gained from managing two million-plus campus volunteers. This announcement is further proof of the commitment of Modern Campus to enable its higher education customers to engage learners for life, including the increasing need for engagement beyond traditional classroom walls.

Modern learners are highly active in volunteerism on campus, with more than 25% participating in civic activity and volunteering an average of 34 hours annually. The benefits of student volunteering are felt in the community, contributing $6.7 billion worth of service, and on students’ learner-to-earner journey, evidenced by their 27% higher odds of employment when compared with students who do not volunteer.

[Big Screens on Campus]

“It all adds up and it all counts—especially when we give freely of our hearts, passions, purpose, and our time," said Brian Kibby, chief executive officer of Modern Campus. "Volunteering is, in many ways, the backbone of who we are as citizens and as a people. And we learn critical skills along this journey. Our partnership with Galaxy Digital plays an important role in helping the modern learner achieve their full potential while also helping to ensure a 360-degree outstanding experience for all.”

Modern Campus Get Connected is a powerful web-based tool designed to help campus volunteer centers simplify volunteer management and boost volunteer engagement. It enables colleges and universities to engage community partners with automated communication tools, custom landing pages, and real-time impact tracking. With Modern Campus Get Connected, schools can:

• Collect service-hours data with a check-in kiosk, mobile app, and automated reminders.
• Promote volunteer events, create custom landing pages, and easily track attendee RSVPs.
• Accurately track every volunteer hour with automated tools and pre-built reports.
• Boost impact with streamlined campus group and team-management tools.
• Leverage data to tell a story and report on student-service and impact metrics with confidence.

“Prior to using Get Connected it was impossible to accurately track volunteer data–we were still using paper logs,” said Heather Williams, assistant director for leadership and civic engagement at Dalton State College. “Now the verification of service hours completed has been greatly simplified. And, Get Connected allows us to connect more students with the needs in our community.”

[Executive Q&A: Improving Hybrid Learning Audio]

"Galaxy Digital is honored to partner with Modern Campus to bring the Get Connected network of service opportunities to colleges and universities,” said Walt Dickinson, chief executive officer of Galaxy Digital. “Students anywhere in North America will have access to hundreds of thousands of vetted volunteer opportunities with over 56,000 nonprofit organizations. This will enable the institutions that Modern Campus serves to better impact their communities and get them engaged in a lifetime of volunteerism."

LiveU, a leader in live video streaming and remote production solutions, recently welcomed award-winning editor and sales professional Doug Price to its expanding sports team. Doug brings over 25 years of media experience and leads sales and account management initiatives in the Central U.S. region.

The sports business has been a huge growth market for LiveU over the past few years. During the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, the company experienced significant growth in the market despite the lack of sports and delay of games. As sports make the big comeback in 2022, LiveU is building on its A-team to support the developing sports business.

[MVCC, LiveU Partner to Bring Live Video Solutions to Canada Market]

“We’re beyond excited to welcome Doug to our growing sales team. Doug is well-respected in the industry and brings a wealth of knowledge from his many years in the sports production world,” said Mike Savello, LiveU vice president of sales, Americas. “Doug will play a vital role in driving the LiveU value proposition in sports and the adoption of our solutions for affordable and seamless remote productions.”

Doug joins LiveU from CHESA Systems, a systems integration company covering the Central and Rocky Mountain states. He began his career working in broadcast sports as an associate producer for his local ABC Affiliate, then moved to the NBC affiliate as senior editor for the 6:30 p.m. news magazine show. Doug left broadcast for the corporate production world, which led him to Tempe, AZ. There, he won several national awards for his work on commercials and infomercials. Doug started working for Avid in 2005, where he served as a sales manager then director of sales for the company’s sports business. 

[The Head of the Charles Regatta Makes a Successful Broadcast Return with LiveU Systems Leading the Way]

“I’ve been a fan of LiveU for many years. With the rise in remote productions and sports coming back in full force this year, I couldn't think of a better time to join the LiveU sports team,” noted Price. “I’ve worked in the sports media industry since 2009 and feel like these folks are family. My goal in this new role is to provide our sports clients with a trusted partner to help them find the right solutions needed to do their jobs effortlessly, efficiently and in a cost-effective way.”

Global visualization company Barco has collaborated with Strategic Radiology, whose 1,500+ affiliated radiologists can now benefit from Barco's premium radiology and mammography solutions and services.

[Barco Roadmap 2022]

Strategic Radiology is a national coalition of privately owned, independent radiology practices representing a membership of over 1,500 radiologists across the U.S. They have come together to improve quality, gain operational efficiencies, and innovate the future of radiology’s private practice model. Via Strategic Radiology, all these groups now have access to Barco diagnostic imaging solutions.

Strategic Radiology members can choose a variety of high-quality diagnostic monitors to fulfill their needs for the hospitals they support, at outpatient clinics and in their homes. Barco diagnostic monitors are known to increase diagnostic accuracy, improve clinical productivity and save time and money.

[Barco Expands G Series Projectors]

Two Strategic Radiology members have already taken advantage of this partnership by purchasing Barco diagnostic monitors for their practice:

• Naugatuck Valley Radiological Associates (NVRA) is an institute of diagnostic imaging staffed with twelve highly trained and board-certified radiologists who strive to provide the best patient care.
• Southeast Radiology has been committed to staying on the forefront of modern-day radiology, maintaining up-to-date training on all the latest imaging technologies and interpretations. All radiologists of SERL are board-certified and received their training at nationally recognized academic institutions.

Focused on improving the delivery of care in radiology, Barco connects healthcare professionals at every patient touchpoint, from the imaging room, to radiology, through specialist consultations, and into the surgical suite. Barco offers the widest selection of fit-for-purpose medical imaging solutions that deliver the complete diagnostic picture supporting higher diagnostic capability, workflow, and cost effectiveness.

[Magewell Partners with Barco to Enhance Wireless Conferencing Experiences]

“The recently implemented relationship between Strategic Radiology and Barco has allowed Southeast Radiology to align cutting-edge radiological image visualization technology with the rapidly evolving needs of private practice radiologists," said Dr. Eric Rubin, radiologist at Southeast Radiology.

Vizrt Group, announced the creation of the inaugural NDI Advisory Board. The NDI Advisory Board will harness the combined experience of a panel of visionary experts to support and steer NDI as its adoption grows beyond the media and entertainment market. Michael Hallén, CEO of Vizrt Group, and Dr. Andrew Cross, inventor of NDI and CEO of Grass Valley are the founding members.

[Leadsom Joins Vizrt as Company Invests in Sports Solutions]

Currently, the NDI Advisory Board is recruiting four additional board members from a diverse range of disciplines and industries, including culture, academia, and science to complete the group. Building on the rapid growth in adoption of NDI in the media and entertainment industries (where NDI is now the most popular and the most recommended video-over-IP technology) the Advisory Board will assist in pioneering new frontiers for NDI.

“The NDI Advisory Board has been set up to ensure NDI’s growth continues to support the democratization of video for anyone as it grows into new arenas,” said Vizrt Group CEO, Michael Hallén.  

"I am eager to see how NDI develops in the future," founder of NDI and Grass Valley CEO, Dr. Andrew Cross added. "IP video is going to become even more critical, not just in broadcast and production, but to many new markets we have yet to explore. I believe NDI is the best technology to drive such far-reaching change.”

[Vizrt Group's NDI is Summoned by Moment Factory in Transforming AT&T Global HQ Into a Cultural Destination]

2022 has seen a quickening of pace for NDI development with the release of NDI|HX3 in January, adding even more flexibility to the low latency, reduced bandwidth variants of NDI, which are particularly valuable in remote and cloud-based used cases. The revolution started by NDI 5, that expanded the reach of NDI from the LAN to WANs, effectively turning the whole world into a studio will be further advanced later this year with the advent of NDI 5.5. 

Owl Labs, the first company to build AI-powered 360-degree videoconferencing solutions, and Verizon Business, announced a partnership to bring affordable, award-winning meeting room technology to organizations of all sizes with the BlueJeans Meetings+ program featuring Owl Labs. 

Companies will soon be able to access Owl Labs’ hybrid meeting technology with BlueJeans Meetings videoconferencing software solution in a bundled package at a simple, cost-effective monthly fee. As the first 360-degree bundled videoconferencing solution on the market, setup is plug and play, takes minutes to implement, and does not require any IT support.

[BlueJeans by Verizon Product Roadmap – Re: Pandemic]

The Meeting Owl Pro is the first 360-degree camera, microphone, and speaker combined into one easy-to-use device, which is used by over 100,000 organizations worldwide. It is powered by proprietary AI technology that automatically focuses on whoever is speaking, using audio and visual cues. It creates the experience of in-person participation for hybrid teams and integrates seamlessly with many videoconferencing platforms, including BlueJeans by Verizon. 

Using the Meeting Owl Pro with BlueJeans’ industry-leading audio and high-definition videoconferencing software ensures that everyone is clearly seen and heard. With clear and predictable pricing, a simplified approval process, and the ability to easily add more licenses as needed, BlueJeans Meetings+ offers 4K video and built-in Dolby Voice audio that minimizes background noise and provides spatial audio. Furthermore, by tapping into the transformative benefits of Verizon’s 5G Ultra Wideband network, BlueJeans and Owl Labs can create the most inclusive and collaborative experience for any meeting.

[Boosting Remote Workforce Productivity, Verizon's Bluejeans Meetings Now Available for Glass Enterprise Edition 2]

This is crucial at a time when 71% of workers want to have a hybrid or remote working style post-pandemic, but 70% find it difficult to participate in conversations on hybrid video calls, as Owl Labs’ recent State of Remote Work study found. Yet only 38% of workers say their employers have upgraded their video technology to allow more hybrid collaboration. As a result, 66% of workers feel that their meetings fail to engage all participants, according to a BlueJeans by Verizon survey. 

“Most companies are vastly underprepared for the complexities of hybrid work, so they need to quickly and effectively overhaul their office spaces to ensure they’re meeting the needs of their hybrid teams as they reopen their offices this spring,” said Frank Weishaupt, CEO of Owl Labs. “Our partnership with BlueJeans by Verizon makes it easy and affordable to transform traditional conference rooms into fully equipped, inclusive videoconferencing ecosystems, so both remote and in-room participants can collaborate and contribute.” 

[SCN Top 50 Systems Integrators 2021]

“One of the biggest challenges of virtual and hybrid meetings is ensuring that everyone feels included,” said Chris Lewter, vice president and general manager of BlueJeans by Verizon. “We believe the right technology can solve for these pain points. We are excited to partner with Owl Labs to bring immersive, 360-degree hardware to companies of all sizes for an affordable monthly fee, to enhance our BlueJeans software for the hybrid workforce.”

Starting at one cost-efficient monthly fee, the Owl Labs’ and BlueJeans’ bundle will be the first 360-degree option on the market. The Meetings+ Bundle will be available for $39 a month. If you sign up in the first 90 days of launch you can get the Meetings+ price of $29 a month for the entirety of your contract. The monthly fee includes the Meeting Owl Pro and app, BlueJeans enterprise software license, product warranty, and customer support.

Based on the recent decision by Governor Polis to close the Colorado Convention Center this fall, LED Specifier Summit show management today announced that it will move the Denver event, which was originally scheduled to stage October 15, 2020, to the spring of 2021.

LED Specifier Summit is a regional one-day immersion in lighting education and solutions geared toward specifiers of commercial, architectural and decorative LED lighting products. The event helps lighting professionals stay current on the latest LED lighting trends through registered seminars and face-to-face access to 100+ leading international lighting and controls manufacturers in a relaxed, casual setting. Access to the show floor is free to qualified attendees who register prior to the show. A nominal fee is charged for the conference sessions, which offer a variety of learning units - AIA, BOMI, IDCEC, IES and NCQLP.

More details will be available soon. Interested participants can check the event website for updates or add themselves to the Show News email list.

For more information about the Denver LED Specifier Summit, visit https://www.ledspecifiersummit.com.

BrightSign and Mimo Monitors have announced availability of the new line of BrightSign-enabled displays, beginning with the 10.1” open frame capacitive touch display. The new Mimo Vue with BrightSign Built-In line, which was first previewed exclusively to InfoComm 2018 attendees in June, is now available for purchase on the Mimo Monitors website.

“Together with BrightSign we created a fully encompassing, comprehensive solution that capitalizes on what our respective companies do best,” said Mike Campagna, CMO of Mimo Monitors. “Leveraging the high-quality innovation behind the Mimo Vue and the power and ease-of-use of the BrightSign platform, this new all-in-one digital signage solution provides both the screen and the player as one, making it simple to deploy and scale.”

The small-format monitors measure 10.1 inches diagonally, ideal for commercial and corporate applications such as kiosk information systems, gaming & amusement, POP/POS as well as conference room scheduling. The zero-bezel design and wide viewing angle suit Mimo Vue perfectly for even the most challenging viewing environments. Boasting a resolution of 1280x800, the monitors’ bright, high-contrast IPS screen performs well in any setting.

“Mimo Vue is a great proof of concept of what’s possible with our BrightSign Built-In platform,” said Jeff Hastings, CEO of BrightSign. “We’re grateful for our collaboration with Mimo Monitors, and we believe the new Mimo Vue will successfully meet the growing demand for integrated, small-format displays in commercial and corporate settings.”

The new line of Mimo Vue monitors is digital signage-ready out-of-the-box, giving customers a solution that’s easy to set up and install. The monitors are durable, reliable and ready for commercial use, and include a one-year warranty. The Mimo Vue with BrightSign Built-In open frame is available for purchase on the Mimo Monitors website for $579.99, with the enclosed display model shortly to follow.

The Yamaha Professional Audio division (PAD) has appointed Steve Mate to the position of district manager for Commercial Audio and NEXO sales. He will cover northern/central CA, AZ, NV, OR, and UT as part of the continued expansion of the Yamaha Commercial Audio sales team.

In his new position as district manager, Mate will report to Jon Peirson, regional sales manager, Yamaha Commercial Audio and NEXO.

“Steve’s strength and experience in the Commercial Audio and high-end loudspeaker markets will be of great benefit to the company as we continue to grow these very important segments,” said Peirson.

Before joining Yamaha, Mate held sales management, product development, and product management positions at Bogen/Apogee, TOA, and Genesis Integration. Mate has also earned accreditation as a NICET Certified Engineering Technologist (CT) and holds Audinate Dante Level 3 certification.