October opened with a bang as more acquisitions stole the Pro AV spotlight.

First, Ross Video announced its acquisition of ioversal, creators of Vertex, an immersive experiences platform. The move marks Ross Video’s expansion into experiential technologies, strengthening its end-to-end live production ecosystem. You can get all the details in our coverage by clicking here.

Later that same day, Avidex announced the acquisition of CCS New England, one of the region’s premier systems integrators serving the greater New England region. The acquisition is part of Avidex’s strategic growth plan, aimed at expanding its reach in key U.S. markets to better serve enterprise, healthcare, education, and government clients. We had the exclusive inside scoop, so get all the information by clicking here.

Now, buckle up. There are a bevy of people movers and partnerships to in which we have to get get you caught up.

People News

Pedro Andres Sanchez Joins Fivestone Studios as Executive Creative Director

Fivestone Studios welcomed Pedro Andres Sanchez to its team as executive creative director.

A creative leader with nearly two decades of experience, Andres Sanchez is widely recognized for blending design, technology, and storytelling to create immersive and interactive experiences. He has directed major permanent experiential projects for brands including T-Mobile, Verizon, IBM, Harley-Davidson, and McDonald’s. Most recently as GVP, group creative director for Razorfish, he led the Physical x Digital team in crafting large-scale immersive retail experiences and interactive brand activations. Prior to that, as creative director at Leviathan (now Envoy Chicago), he oversaw multidisciplinary teams delivering immersive experiences for branded environments, executive briefing centers, and public spaces.

Kokusai Denki Amplifies Sales Team with Adam Daniul

KOKUSAI DENKI Electric America has appointed industry veteran Adam Daniul to its sales team. Daniul takes on the role of Southeast regional manager, initially covering the states of Alabama, Arkansas, Florida, Georgia, Louisiana, South Carolina, Tennessee, and Texas.

He joins KOKUSAI DENKI direct from FOR-A Corporation. His 12 years of experience at FOR-A, including nearly four years as VP sales and more than five years serving the Southeast, has also kept him well-versed in regional business trends, some of which share parallels across verticals.

Daniul is leveraging his strong industry relationships across the region and brand knowledge to develop new business, drive sales, and serve existing customers across KOKUSAI DENKI’s customer base. Those customers include both end users and the company’s regional channel partner network, including integrators, dealers and rental houses. Daniul’s depth of experience also includes several years with a distribution firm and a manufacturer’s representative which, along with his time at FOR-A, have prepared him with a broad industry of how the channel business operates and thrives.

Nemal Welcomes Adeline Ferro as Director of Business Development

Adeline Ferro, MBA, has joined Nemal Electronics as its new director of business development. She is leading Nemal’s expanding efforts in healthcare technology, focusing on OR connectivity solutions built with Neutrik’s Hybrid Med connectors. She also serves as a link between Nemal's sales representatives throughout the Americas and its engineering team, ensuring the delivery of custom solutions tailored to clients' needs.

With over 25 years of experience in broadcast and Pro AV—including leadership roles at Viacom—Ferro brings deep industry knowledge and a customer-first mindset to Nemal.

PPDS Welcomes ‘Edutech Expert’ Emily Pirtle

PPDS appointed "AV expert," Emily Pirtle, in a move further strengthening its sales team in North America. In her newly created role of regional sales manager for TOLA, encompassing Texas, Oklahoma, Louisiana, and Arkansas, Pirtle is focused on four key growth markets representing over 3.5 million small businesses and opportunities.

With an accomplished career spanning over 20 years, she brings a diverse set of skills and knowledge to the PPDS North America team, with specialist expertise and leadership experience in sales, account management, client relations, strategic planning, and business development. Her primary responsibilities include developing and managing relationships with integrators, resellers, and customers, identifying new sales opportunities and leads, and collaborating with partners.

She will also work with national and international teams to develop and implement new strategies to further increase and expand brand recognition and drive product awareness of PPDS' evolving portfolio of award winning Philips Professional Displays, and complementary hardware and software solutions, to a wider audience.

ProjX360 Appoints Kristina Marshall as Onboarding Director

ProjX360 hired Kristina Marshall as onboarding director. Marshall leads initiatives to help new clients learn ProjX360 and adopt proven workflows that streamline operations from sales through service.

Marshall brings over a decade of experience spanning both integration and SaaS solutions for the AV industry. She served at Portal.io from 2017 through 2025, where she worked closely with dealers and manufacturers to simplify quoting and procurement processes. Prior to that, she worked as a system designer and project manager at Kiwi Audio Visual (2013–2017), overseeing design, documentation, and job execution from pre-wire through project completion.

Company News

AC Americas Announces U.S Distribution Partnership with Innosonix

AC Americas announced its exclusive partnership with German audio innovator Innosonix for distribution across the United States. Innosonix is known for its advanced DSP-driven Class D amplifiers, offering up to 32 channels in a single rack unit. Its technology is designed for demanding applications in immersive audio, themed entertainment, and architectural installations—where precision, scalability, and reliability are paramount.

This strategic alliance marks a significant expansion of AC Americas’ audio portfolio, bringing Innosonix’s multi-channel amplifier technology to the U.S. market for the first time under an exclusive agreement.

Humly Partners With Avitor for Irish Distribution

Humly announced a new partnership with Irish AV distributor Avitor that will introduce the workplace solutions to businesses and campuses throughout Ireland. This collaboration marks Humly’s official entry into the Irish market.

Avitor, a value-added distributor in the AV and collaboration space, has selected Humly as a key addition to its brand portfolio for all-in-one professional space booking and management. The partnership reflects the increasing demand from organizations for smart, user-friendly workplace tools to book rooms, desks, and parking spaces, manage visitor journeys, and more — across one ecosystem featuring Humly’s hardware and/or software solutions.

Listen Technologies Partners with Akoio

Listen Technologies has partnered with Akoio, a company dedicated to hearing wellness through accessibility and lifelong sound health for both organizations and individuals, to expand education and access to inclusive audio experiences. The collaboration will highlight how innovative assistive listening technologies like Auracast broadcast audio are helping more people hear clearly in public and private spaces.

Akoio helps organizations adopt impactful solutions that meet the everyday needs of their employees. Together, they will ensure organizations are inspired to act and equipped with the strategies and tools to create environments where people can thrive. Listen Technologies and Akoio will focus on education, awareness, and strategic implementations to demonstrate the human and business impacts of access to clear audio.

Midwich Partners with Lightware Visual Engineering

Midwich announced a new U.S. distribution partnership with Lightware Visual Engineering. Through this partnership, Midwich will bring Lightware’s portfolio, including its Taurus UCX platform, advanced matrix switchers, AV over IP technologies, and USB-C connectivity solutions to integrators, resellers, and end users across the United States. Midwich customers will also benefit from dedicated sales support, training, and technical expertise to help them design and deploy Lightware solutions in a wide range of environments.

POPE Professional joins RAVENNA partner community

Lawo, developer of the RAVENNA audio-over-IP technology, welcomes Indian Pro AV company POPE Professional Acoustics Ltd as the latest partner to the thriving RAVENNA community.

POPE Professiona is known for its innovative range of audio solutions including loudspeakers, subwoofers, line arrays, amplifiers and digital signal processors. The company also offers comprehensive manufacturing, audio system design, installation and support, and has contributed to numerous high-profile projects across the country.

SMPTE 2025 Media Technology Summit Plans Unveiled

SMPTE, the home of media professionals, technologists, and engineers, has announced plans for this year’s Media Technology Summit. SMPTE’s annual conference focusing on media innovations, solutions, and technologies is taking place Oct. 13-16 at the Pasadena Convention Center in Pasadena, CA.

This year’s Summit will feature multiple technical conference tracks. Highlights include a Live Broadcast Symposium with sessions from the EBU, Marvel Studios, and AWS, as well as a Global AI Standards Forum with presentations from Google, Microsoft, NVIDIA, and others. SMPTE is also expanding its Solutions Hub, where attendees can explore three Interactive Zones: Acquisition & Live Capture, Processing & Post Production, and Delivery & Consumer Display. Each zone will spotlight the latest workflows and technologies that are shaping the future of media.

This news comes on the heels of SMPTE being recognized with a Technology and Engineering Emmy Award from the National Academy of Television Arts & Sciences (NATAS) for its ST 2067 family of standards, which defines the Interoperable Master Format (IMF). SMPTE, along with Advanced Media Workflow Association (AMWA), Digital Cinema Initiatives (DCI), and University of Southern California’s Entertainment Technology Center (USC-ETC), will be honored at the upcoming 76th Annual Technology and Engineering Emmy Awards. The ceremony is set to take place on December 4, 2025, at Prince George’s Ballroom in New York City.

There were some big moves in a few C-suites and among board members, as well as some expanded and new distribution partnerships. Buckle up, here is your weekly Pro AV rundown.

[Best in Market 2025: Nominations Open]

People News

Mark Towler Joins 22Miles as Product Marketing Director

22Miles has appointed Mark Towler as product marketing director. In this role, he will spearhead the company’s go-to-market strategy, channel enablement efforts, and accelerate growth across key Pro AV and digital signage markets. He is responsible for launching new initiatives that support partner growth, refining product narratives across categories, and driving adoption across transportation, hospitality, healthcare, retail, higher-education, and enterprise markets.

Towler brings a proven ability to translate complex technologies into compelling, actionable messaging for both partners and end users. With extensive experience in product marketing, channel development, and B2B storytelling, he will play a key role in strengthening the company’s presence in the AV industry.

PPDS Strengthen European Leadership Team

PPDS has appointed experienced indoor and outdoor dvLED integration specialist, Jeroen Feldman, to its European technical sales team. Assuming the role of solution manager dvLED, Feldman brings more than more than 19 years of knowledge and experience, specializing in indoor and outdoor installations for a broad range of settings including music festivals, football stadiums, shopping malls, boardrooms, large conference centers, and more.

Based at PPDS’ Amsterdam head office, and reporting to Jan Van Tieghem, director of technical sales support EMEA, Feldman will play an integral role in supporting and ensuring seamless installations of PPDS’ growing range of Philips LED solutions across Northern Europe.

Sonos Appoints Tom Conrad as Chief Executive Officer

The Sonos Board of Directors has appointed Tom Conrad as chief executive officer. Conrad, who has served as Interim CEO since January of this year, will remain on the Board of Directors.

Sonos has achieved notable progress under Conrad’s leadership as interim CEO. This includes setting a new standard for the quality of Sonos’ software and product experience, clearing the path for a robust new product pipeline, and launching innovative new software enhancements to flagship products Sonos Ace and Arc Ultra.

Wisycom Embarks on a New Chapter of Leadership

Wisycom SRL transitioned in its corporate management, appointing Davide Morsiani as chief executive officer (CEO) and Gerrit Buhe as chief technology officer (CTO), while Andrea Bulfon will continue as chief operating officer (COO) and Marika Stangherlin has been promoted to chief sales officer (CSO). These changes mark a natural step in a business development plan that began in 2022 to streamline operations and prepare Wisycom for future growth in an evolving global market.

Morsiani now leads as CEO, having worked with Wisycom since June 2023. With extensive experience across multiple operational roles in a variety of sectors, including manufacturing and supply-chain operations, Morsiani has the visionary leadership and organizational insight necessary to bring Wisycom to the next level.

As CTO, Buhe’s RF and wireless technology knowledge spans over three decades, including 20 years of professional audio research and product development. This background aligns perfectly with Wisycom’s identity as a highly professional partner in the pro audio industry and his capabilities will directly benefit the expansion of the brand’s product portfolio. Confirmed as COO in February 2021, Bulfon’s 35 years of expertise extends across printed circuit board production, electronic engineering and medical devices. Lastly, a dedicated sales professional, Wisycom’s new CSO, Stangherlin first joined the company in January 2017 and most recently served as the company’s global sales manager.

IABM Confirms New Members’ Board for 2025

IABM, the International Trade Association for Broadcast and Media Technology, has confirmed the appointment of its Members’ Board for 2025, following the conclusion of this year’s election.

The Members’ Board for 2025 is as follows:

Continuing IABM Board Members:
Josh Arensberg–Verizon (Chair)
Andreas Hilmer–Lawo (Immediate Past Chair)
Jade Kurian–latakoo
David Phillips–Multicast
Peter Sykes–Sony
Saleha Williams–CEO, IABM
Lucinda Meek–CFOO, IABM
Newly Elected IABM Board Directors:
Steph Lone–AWS
Alison Pavitt–Blue Lucy
Oscar Teran–EVS
Adam Marshall–Grass Valley
Glodina Lostanlen–Imagine Communications
Hasan R. Sayed Hasan–MasterMedia
Ajey Anand–Norigin
Tom Wootton–Red Bee Media
Chris Lennon–Ross Video
Anna Lockwood–Telstra

Chairs of IABM Member Councils:
Paul Stechley–Applied Electronics
Thomas Gunkel–Skyline Communications
Sumit Suri–U-TO

SMPTE Announces 2025 Honorees

SMPTE will honor some of the industry’s top minds and organizations at its annual Awards Gala, Thursday, Oct. 16, at the conclusion of the 2025 SMPTE Media Technology Summit. The Gala will take place in the Pasadena Convention Center.

This year, 14 honors will be bestowed upon 31 individuals and organizations. The David Sarnoff Medal is being awarded to Darryl Jefferson of NBC Olympics and Sports in recognition of his visionary engineering leadership and transformative innovations in large-scale broadcast systems.

The Progress Medal award is bestowed upon founder of Animation Research, Sir Ian Taylor, in recognition of his decades-long leadership and technological innovation in animation and sports production. The Excellence in Education Medal recognizes Polly Hickling for her outstanding contributions to developing inclusive and accessible learning pathways in the dynamic field of media engineering.

SMPTE will honor Michelle Munson, co-founder and CEO of Aspera, with the Workflow Systems Medal. The Camera Origination and Imaging Medal will honor Dr. Peter Centen for pioneering innovations in image sensor technology that transformed electronic cinematography and broadcast imaging. The James A. Lindner Archival Technology Medal is awarded to Reto Kromer in recognition of his pioneering contributions to audiovisual preservation through practical, accessible, and forward-looking technologies.

The Natalie M. and Herbert T. Kalmus Award honors Scott Miller for his pivotal contributions to the invention, development, advocacy, and standardization of the Perceptual Quantizer (PQ) transfer function. The Samuel L. Warner Memorial Medal Award recipient is Ben Burtt in recognition of his transformative contributions to the art and science of motion picture sound. The Excellence in Standards Award recognizes Steve LLamb in recognition of his exemplary leadership and enduring contributions to the SMPTE Standards Community.

The Louis F. Wolf Jr. Memorial Scholarship recipient is Anthony Guarino from the Rochester Institute of Technology. Four individuals will be honored with the Citation for Outstanding Service to the Society: Zandra Clarke, Bill Hogan, Jim DeFilippis, and Ujwal Nirgudkar.

The Journal Award for the best paper originally published in the SMPTE Motion Imaging Journal during 2024 will be presented to Alejandro Arango, Simon Therriault, and Andriy Yamashev for their paper, “Enhancements to Media Transport in ICVFX Using SMPTE 2110,” by A. Arango, S. Therriault and A. Yamashev, published in the October 2024 issue of the Motion Imaging Journal–Volume 133, Issue 6.”

Thirteen new SMPTE Fellows will be recognized at this year’s Gala: John Abt, Francois Bourdua, Carolyn Giardina, Eric Gsell, Carys Hughes, Russell Trafford-Jones, Phillip Graham Layton, François Legrand, Nick Mitchell, Paritosh Saha, Florian Schleich, James Toten, and Ron Williams.

Company News

AtlasIED Announces Integration Partnership with Sittig Technologies’ PAXGuide Platform

AtlasIED announced a strategic integration partnership with Sittig Technologies, the developers of PAXGuide—a modular, intelligent software platform for managing automated airport announcements. Already in use at major airports worldwide, PAXGuide is designed to meet the evolving demands of modern aviation environments. It delivers multilingual, real-time, and fully automated passenger announcements, triggered by live operational data and tailored to meet the dynamic needs of airports.

Through this collaboration, PAXGuide now integrates seamlessly with AtlasIED’s GLOBALCOM systems. For airports currently operating GLOBALCOM or planning an installation, the integration allows for enhanced automation and intelligent public address functionality, without requiring changes to the existing infrastructure.

FOR-A America Partners with TecNec for U.S. Distribution

FOR-A America and TecNec Distributing have entered into a distribution partnership, making TecNec FOR-A America’s first-U.S.-based distributor. TecNec will carry FOR-A America’s systems for broadcast, professional video and the house of worship market, with a focus on the HVS-190 1 M/E video switcher series. TecNec, a subsidiary of Tower Products, is also well established as a premier reseller and distributor. The company has been a trusted reseller of FOR-A America for over 25 years.

HARMAN Expands U.K. Partnership with Live Technology

HARMAN Professional Solutions expanded its partnership with Live Technology, a Midwich Company. In addition to its current distribution responsibilities for HARMAN Professional’s audio brands (JBL Professional, BSS, Crown, Soundcraft, Lexicon, and dbx) Live Technology will now also oversee sales and support for the AMX video and control brand in the United Kingdom.

Based in Letchworth Garden City, Live Technology is well-positioned to deliver service and technical expertise to U.K. customers and integrators across the expanded HARMAN Professional Solutions portfolio. This strategic move reinforces HARMAN’s commitment to providing audio, video, and control solutions throughout Europe.

Boulevard Carroll Entertainment Group Opens Manhattan’s First L-Acoustics L-ISA Demo Space

L-Acoustics Certified Provider integrator and distributor Boulevard Carroll Entertainment Group has opened Manhattan’s first-ever L-Acoustics L-ISA demo space. Located at the company’s sixth-floor rehearsal suite at 625 West 55th Street, just blocks from Times Square and the city’s theater district, Boulevard Carroll’s new L-ISA-equipped Studio One is one of seven professional workspaces available, allowing engineers to experience L-ISA while they’re rehearsing in one of the other spaces or build an L-ISA show file during their rehearsal.

Featuring a design based on input from L-Acoustics technicians and utilizing Soundvision design software, Studio One has a complete 7.1.10 immersive sound system in place. The space, built out and equipped by Boulevard Carroll’s own AJ Nittoli, Daryl Moore, Jake Hertzog, and Joe Smith, is ideal for sound designers, audio mixers, and other technicians who are rapidly making L-ISA the premier immersive sound platform for the theater market.

PureLink Ends Partnership with EU Distributor PureLink GMBH

PureLink today announced it has ended its longtime partnership with its EU distributor, PureLink GMBH, and has begun carving out new distribution channels, via new sales and logistics partners, products, and services. PureLink had represented the ultra-high-end, professional series of products in PureLink GMBH’s lineup. PureLink now intends to fully leverage that pedigree to reach a greater audience throughout Europe.

Quince Imaging Joins the Stage Precision Service Partner Program

Quince Imaging has joined the Stage Precision Service Partner Program as an Authorized Service Partner (ASP). This partnership is a testament to Quince Imaging’s expertise and proven use of Stage Precision’s SP software for delivering large‑scale projection mapping and immersive visual experiences.

The Stage Precision Service Partner Program was created in 2023 to elevate standards across live‑event, virtual‑production, and AV sectors, while expanding SP’s reach into new creative markets. To qualify as an ASP, partners must operate a publicly accessible studio, volume or R&D facility, with Stage Precision integrated into their workflows, have team members who have completed an in‑person SP training, and they must have delivered at least one project where SP tools played a core role in the project workflow.

Learning and Shared Insights

Amadeus Acoustics announces consultant seminar

Amadeus Acoustics invites consultants, acousticians, system designers, and AV professionals to join the company in Vienna for a two-day seminar exploring the future of active acoustics and immersive audio.

Taking place on December 1-2, 2025, the seminar offers an opportunity to engage directly with the Amadeus team, experience our technologies in action, and connect with peers from across the industry. With live demonstrations, expert talks, hands-on workshops, and exclusive venue visits, the program is designed to inspire, inform, and foster collaboration.

Aurora, NETGEAR Partner for Two-Day Live Class for Designing

Join Aurora and NETGEAR for a two-day live class that dives into the intricacies of designing AV over IP systems using multiple switches and Dante audio technology. This comprehensive workshop is ideal for AV professionals, system integrators, and IT specialists who are eager to elevate their expertise and stay ahead in the rapidly evolving world of audiovisual technology.

The dates are August 19th and 20th, 2025, 8:30 a.m. ET-5:30 p.m. ET. Attendees will learn from industry leaders, including Chuck Espinoza, global director of education at Aurora Multimedia, and Alex Pendelton, senior system engineer from the PRO AV Design Team at NETGEAR. With extensive credentials and experience, they will guide you through the complexities of AV over IP design.

SMPTE introduced the initial documents defining the Catena control plane standard at its quarterly SMPTE Technology Committee meetings, held June 1-3 in Tokyo. The product of extensive work by SMPTE’s Rapid Industry Solutions Open Services Alliance group (RIS-OSA), the initial Catena documents (known as the ST 2138 suite) were introduced to the SMPTE Standards Community (and its 34CS Technology Committee that focuses on Media Systems Control and Services) to begin the official standardization process.

[ST 2110: An Introduction]

“Catena represents one of the most ambitious and essential standardization efforts SMPTE has undertaken in recent years,” said Chris Lennon, director of standards strategy for Ross Video and a SMPTE Fellow. “With media workflows now spanning on-prem, cloud, and hybrid environments, the need for a unified, secure, and vendor-agnostic control plane is more urgent than ever. By introducing the initial Catena documents into the SMPTE Standards Community, we’re inviting the broader industry to help shape a solution that works for everyone, regardless of where their services reside or what platform they use.”

Hundreds of proprietary protocols are used today to control media devices, creating a control plane challenge across the media industry. In defining and standardizing Catena, SMPTE aims to provide the first and only standardized open-source solution to this challenge. Catena, a vendor and platform-agnostic solution, offers a single secure protocol that is equally suited to controlling very small devices and microservices as it is to controlling the most complex physical devices and services in use by the media industry.

“One of the fundamental challenges facing our industry is managing devices and services across a fragmented infrastructure, and proprietary control protocols are simply not up to the task,” said Thomas Bause Mason, SMPTE director of standards development. “Catena offers a new model based on open standards, community-driven development, and a pragmatic path to implementation. Designed to address every device, service, and system in any environment, it offers the adaptable, future-proof approach we need.”

The initial suite of Catena documents introduced this week consists of ST 2138-00: Catena Overview; ST 2138-10: Catena Model; ST 2138-11: gRPC Connection Type; ST 2138-12: REST Connection Type; and ST 2138-50: Catena Security.

These documents are transitioning into SMPTE’s 34CS TC to begin the official standardization process. SMPTE has also stood up its Catena repository on GitHub, which includes interface files, schema, and other supporting resources. SMPTE’s plan is to advance these initial Catena documents to Public Committee Draft (PCD) status as soon as practical, then pause development to give implementers time to integrate Catena into their products and provide feedback. Following this implementation and review period, the documents will quickly move forward through the final standardization and approval stages.

Like much of the country the past few weeks, the Pro AV world has seen quite a flurry. Instead of snowflakes, it has been acquisitions, people movers, and partnerships galore. 

In case you missed it, LG Electronics has taken a significant step in advancing its robotics capabilities by securing a majority stake in Bear Robotics, a prominent Silicon Valley-based startup specializing in AI-driven autonomous service robots. Read SCN's full coverage and all the details by clicking here. 

VuWall announced its acquisition by Naxicap, a private equity firm that previously acquired Guntermann & Drunck (G&D) in 2020 and Tritec Electronic in 2022. The strategic alignment under Naxicap creates exceptional synergy, allowing the companies to leverage each other’s technology, workforce, and market presence. You can read all the details from SCN here.

CTI made yet another acquisition, continuing a frenzied 12 months of growth. CTI has acquired Delta AV of Gresham, OR, which has been serving clients in and around the Portland area for almost 30 years. Delta AV is the company's 39th U.S. location, providing expanded coverage of the Pacific Northwest to Portland Metro Area. Read all about it here. 

Now, on with your weekly recap of Pro AV newsmakers.

People News

L-Acoustics Names Bryan Bradley as CEO Americas

Bryan Bradley has joined L-Acoustics as CEO Americas. Bradley now oversees all of the manufacturer’s North, Central, and South American operations and shares his time between the global hub in Westlake Village, CA, and a new Americas operations and creative hub at Nashville Yards when it officially opens later this year.

Bradley recently spent six years serving as the president of Group One Limited, the New York-based U.S. distributor for DiGiCo, Calrec, Solid State Logic, Sound Devices, and several other pro audio and lighting manufacturers. Prior to that he held multiple executive management positions at Harman, most recently as SVP and general manager of the Americas for Harman Professional Solutions, where he managed the retail, live performance, large venue, hospitality and enterprise channels for JBL Professional, AKG, AMX, Crown, dbx, Lexicon, Soundcraft and Martin, among other Harman brands, across the American continents.

Bradley has also held the role of COO for Alfred Music, as well as management positions with Guitar Center. He has been a songwriter/composer for television and film, including serving as the music director on The Young and the Restless. 

Industry Veteran Joe Paryzek Joins FOR-A America

FOR-A America appointed industry veteran Joe Paryzek to the newly created position director, solutions development. In this role, Paryzek is responsible for key account management and customer communication to drive development of FOR-A’s  technology, with a focus on the company’s IP based-software defined solutions.

Thanks to Paryzek’s deep engineering and customer service background most recently as co-owner and Video Systems Design for the live video systems design firm Strata AVL, as a project engineer at the systems integration firm Diversified, and in pre-sale technical support at Grass Valley, he has the technical product and systems design expertise to ensure success in his new role.

Group One Limited Names New Leadership Team

Long Island, New York-based Group One Limited announced several key changes to its management team ahead of the 2025 NAMM Show. Austin Freshwater has been appointed to serve as the new CEO for Group One, in addition to carrying on his current role as managing director for DiGiCo. Freshwater originally joined DiGiCo as general manager in 2017, coming to the brand after a decade spent with Canon, the world-leading innovator and provider of imaging and information technology solutions. After four years with DiGiCo at its global headquarters in Chessington, UK, he was promoted to the position of managing director in 2021. Now, as CEO of Group One, Freshwater oversees all sales, marketing, and support teams for each of the distributor’s pro audio and lighting brands across the United States.

In tandem with Freshwater’s appointment, Solid State Logic, a key brand in the Group One portfolio, has appointed Rick Naqvi to the position of SVP, sales, where he is responsible for the sales of all SSL hardware products in the United States and Mexico, including recording, broadcast, live, and audio creation products (ACP). Based in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, Naqvi most recently served as VP of sales for PreSonus Audio Electronics, which he joined in 1995 as one of the company’s first full-time employees nearly 30 years ago.

Franck Racapé Joins Iagona as Managing Director Strategy and Development

Franck Racapé joins French AV manufacturer and SI, Iagona as managing director strategy and development. With a solid experience in the audiovisual and digital solutions sector, Racapé—formerly VP of Global Communications at PPDS—will be responsible for driving and accelerating Iagona's strategic transformation. His expertise in sales performance, technological innovation and complex project management will be a key asset in meeting the challenges of a rapidly changing market.

“I am absolutely thrilled to join the team at Iagona on the journey to achieve exponential growth," he said. "The quality of the company and its people combined with its investments into product portfolio expansion will not only set Iagona up as a leader in the French domestic market, it will also make the company ready to scale internationally.”

SMPTE Selects Raymond Yeung to Serve as Standards Vice President

Raymond Yeung is taking over the role of standards vice president for the SMPTE. Yeung is the head of content standards at Amazon MGM Studios Technology, where he is focused on advancements in the media supply chain. With extensive experience in digital visual effects and film mastering, he joined the HDR imaging development effort at Dolby Laboratories in 2012. Yeung is a SMPTE Life Fellow and a member of the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences.

“I am honored to be serving as the new standards vice president,” said Yeung. “Leading this renowned standards development institution is a great responsibility, and one that I take very seriously. I plan to draw from my experience serving as a SMPTE standards director and chair of Technology Committee 35PM to drive innovation for the standards community.”

SoundTube Welcomes New Sales Engineer

SoundTube has added Sarah Chauvin as a sales engineer. With nearly two decades of experience in the music and audio industry, Chauvin brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to her new role.

Chauvin's background includes numerous industry certifications, including AVIXA’s CTS (Certified Technology Specialist) designation. Her extensive experience in developing technical sales materials and teams, particularly during her tenure at Biamp, has honed her skills in design engineering and technical training. She has demonstrated a commitment to coaching and mentoring, creating technical trainings that benefit both her team and industry colleagues. Her responsibilities at SoundTube include creating product training/webinars, customer/technical training, and assisting as an additional technical resource to reps and customers. 

Company News

B-Tech, Data Tech Partner for Latin America

B-Tech AV Mounts announced a new distribution agreement with Florida-based Data Tech, which will distribute B-Tech products throughout Central and South America.

Operating from Miami, FL, Data Techwas established in 1996 and has specialized in the distribution of original supplies from leading printing brands such as HP, Lexmark, Brother, Xerox,and Epson for the Latin American and Caribbean markets.

Over the past 29 years, Data Tech has built a large network of clients throughout Central and South America and has become a master dealer for Latin America for Tech solutions brands such as Samsung, Vertiv Sat, Ecoflow, and Nitrotel. For this reason, they are perfectly positioned to supply the globally recognized AV supports of B-Tech to professional AV clients in these markets.

Now in their 53rd year of trading and headquartered in the U.K., B-Tech launched its North American operation with offices and warehousing in Brea, California in 2019. A period of sustained growth across the continent has continued, as demand grew for their tried and trusted mounting solutions amongst top pro AV integrators, both domestically and internationally.

Listen Technologies and Ampetronic Further Their Strategic Partnership

Listen Technologies Corporation and Ampetronic are joining forces and combining their decades of expertise to redefine assistive listening and  communication.

The two companies are deepening their partnership under the Allvida umbrella, aligning their operations, leadership, and resources to deliver greater value to customers and partners. This partnership further unites two trusted brands with over 65 years of expertise and brings together innovation, quality, and a shared mission to make audio accessible for everyone. By joining forces, Listen Technologies and Ampetronic are positioned to lead the assistive listening and communication industry with expanded resources, a broad suite of products, and a steadfast commitment to help the world “simply hear better.”

The combined leadership team includes Maile Keone serving as president and CEO of both Listen Technologies and Ampetronic, ensuring consistent leadership and strategic alignment across the organization. Julian Pieters will assume the role of Chief Strategy Officer, focusing on business strategy, product and technology development, and partnerships. The centralized leadership streamlines operations to deliver seamless customer and partner experiences. This unified structure enhances collaboration across teams and regions, drives innovation, and ensures consistent excellence in customer support and global accessibility.

PPDS (Philips) and F1 World Champions Oracle Red Bull Racing Sign New Multi-Year Digital Display Contract

PPDS announced a new multi-year contract extension with Oracle Red Bull Racing, becoming a team partner while continuing as the sole supplier of digital displays to the eight-time Formula One World Championship winning team for 2025 and beyond.

A partnership driven by innovation and teamwork, PPDS joined forces with Oracle Red Bull Racing in 2022 as an ‘Official Team Supplier’, with the mission of transforming the race day experience for VIP guests inside the team’s famous Oracle Red Bull Racing Paddock Club.

Fuelled by a joint desire to always lead from the frontt, this was achieved using displays from the full portfolio of Philips Professional Displays, offering live 4K UHD race coverage, access to exclusive behind-the-scenes content, links to the pit lane, and audio feeds from the drivers and crew, with the centerpiece being a custom designed, portable and easily transportable 10m2 Ultra HD Philips dvLED videowall.  

Utelogy Partners with Ascentae

Utelogy announced its partnership with Ascentae, a technology distributor in the U.K. Together they aim to offer innovative workplace solutions that enhance collaboration and productivity.

Ascentae specializes in delivering innovative workplace solutions that enhance collaboration and productivity. Integrating Utelogy's advanced technology management software into its portfolio, Ascentae will continue to work with workplace brands to build ecosystems that enable organizations to improve operational efficiency and data-driven decision-making.

Having trouble keeping up with the large amount of people, partnership, and acquisition news in 2025? Don't worry, that's what we're here for.

Check out people movers at SMPTE, Powersoft, PPDS, SoundTube, and TEG as well as a bevy of partnerships you should know. 

[Get to Know the SCN Hall of Fame 2025]

People News

Powersoft Strengthens Team with Cristiano Traferri 

Powersoft appointed Cristiano Traferri as a house account professional leader. With over 25 years of industry experience across audio-video, commercial, and power electronics sectors, Traferri brings a wealth of expertise to strengthen client relationships and drive growth with increased emphasis on sustainable products and practices.
 
Throughout his career, Traferri has held key roles in marketing, key account management, and business development, collaborating closely with clients worldwide across diverse industries, such as IT, ICT, lighting, industrial automation and telecom.

Traferri’s vision includes fostering sustainable growth and innovation by leveraging deep client relationships, ensuring Powersoft’s solutions consistently exceed client expectations and drive mutual success. He will focus on enhancing Powersoft’s OEM client-centric approach by developing and maintaining long-term relationships with new and existing clients. As well as expanding Powersoft’s presence in emerging markets and sectors.

PPDS Appoints New Global Product Manager for Interactive Displays

PPDS appointed long-serving TP Vision employee, Lutz Harder, as the company’s new global product manager–interactive displays.

Lutz brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to the PPDS product management team, with an accomplished career in AV and technology spanning more than two decades. This includes 10 years at TP Vision holding roles, since 2014, as product manager high end TVs Germany,  product manager DACH, and, most recently, product manager Europe Philips TV.

Lutz plays an integral and strategic role in the growth and development of PPDS’ evolving interactive display portfolio and business. Lutz is now working closely with global R&D, sales, and business management teams to identify new market growth opportunities to drive the development of both existing and future generations of interactive display products and software solutions, tailored to a variety of market verticals and in specific countries.

SMPTE Membership Elects Richard Welsh to Serve as the Society’s President

SMPTE welcomed Richard Welsh as president after being elected by its membership. Welsh served as SMPTE EVP for the two years prior to his election. His term will extend two years to Dec. 31, 2026.

Welsh is currently the SVP of innovation at Deluxe. He has been on the SMPTE board for more than 10 years. He has also served as SMPTE’s VP of education and as governor for EMEA, Central/South America. Welsh is also on the board of IBC and the chair/co-founder of the volumetric asset management company Volustor.

Welsh began his career at Dolby Laboratories as a film sound consultant, working his way up to director of digital cinema services in the 12 years he spent there. He later became the head of operations of Technicolor’s digital cinema, localization, and sound services department. More recently, Welsh became an associate lecturer at Southampton Solent University while simultaneously co-founding Sundog Media Toolkit.

SoundTube Entertainment Appoints Anders Olsen as European Manager

SoundTube Entertainment appointed Anders Olsen as European manager. With an extensive background in the audio industry spanning over 17 years, Olsen brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to SoundTube and its brands.

Olsen began his journey in audio as a teenager, initially exploring hi-fi systems before advancing into the world of installed audio. Since 2007, he has held key international roles with renowned manufacturers, including DNH, Cambridge Sound Management, Apart Audio, Biamp, and Blaze Audio. Throughout his career, Olsen has successfully built strong relationships with distributors and partners across global markets.

In his new role, Olsen leverages his expertise to expand SoundTube's presence in international markets, with a particular focus on Europe. His goal is to strengthen existing partnerships, develop new business opportunities, and drive growth for the SoundTube brands.

TEG Appoints Frank Anzures as Director of Sales and Marketing

Transformation Entertainment Group (TEG) appointed Frank Anzures as director of sales and marketing. In this role, Anzures is spearheading the strategic development and execution of sales and marketing initiatives to drive growth within TEG’s product and service offerings.   

Anzures has more than 26 years of experience in the pro AV industry, with marketing and sales management positions with Epson America, VUEAV, Christie Digital Systems, Mitsubishi Digital Electric, BenQ, and InFocus.

"I am excited to join TEG and contribute to the company's continued success,” said Anzures. “I look forward to working with our talented team to deliver innovative solutions that meet the evolving needs of our customers.”

Company News

Absen and Starin Announce Strategic Partnership

Starin announced a new partnership with Absen. This strategic collaboration marks a significant step in expanding Starin’s product portfolio and delivering advanced LED solutions to the North American market.

Starin’s deep expertise in providing innovative AV solutions positions it perfectly to meet the growing demand for LED technology. Together, Starin and Absen are poised to meet the increasing demand for LED technology, providing customers with innovative solutions, superior support, and a commitment to excellence. This partnership underscores Starin’s dedication to leading the AV industry and addressing the evolving needs of its clients.

Contacta Bolsters Presence with Multiple New Distribution Deals  

Contacta, a manufacturer of window intercom and assistive listening systems in North America for the past 17 years, has bolstered its presence in the market with new distribution deals. The Florida-based company has established partnerships with several major retailers serving the AV, security, and construction markets. 

Its range of window intercoms systems, which enhance communication at secure windows, will now be available through Wesco Anixter, an electrical, communications and utility distribution and supply chain solutions company. Armortex, ShureSAFE, Safewood Designs, Covenant Security Equipment, Intercoms Online, and DK Hardware Supply are also now offering systems from Contacta comprehensive window intercom range.

Draper Adds New Pro AV Rep Firm in Northeast United States

UC Technology Partners (UCTP) now represents Draper Pro AV products throughout Connecticut, Massachusetts, Maine, New Hampshire, New York, Northern New Jersey, Rhode Island, and Vermont. UCTP was recently founded by Aaron Chisena and Rob Leclerc, industry veterans with over 50 years of collective experience working directly for manufacturers, integrators, service providers, and end users.

The Draper Pro AV portfolio of products and solutions includes a wide range of projection screens and fabrics, including the TecVision surfaces, as well as projector lifts, fly cage stacking frames, and AV mounts and structures (AVMS) supporting the latest video wall technologies.

LEA Professional Partners with Global AV Sales

LEA Professional announced its partnership with Queensland, Australia-based manufacturer’s representative Global AV Sales. This partnership will bring LEA’s rich technology catalog, featuring advancements in intelligent IT solutions, DSP, and smart power management, to the APAC, Middle East, and EMEA residential markets.

For more than 12 years, Global AV Sales has been a trusted partner for international manufacturers, representing companies across over 60 countries. This partnership will allow Global AV Sales to offer LEA Professional’s Network Connect series of professional amplifiers and companion Dante Connect series featuring Dante and AES67 connectivity. These series enable integrators to utilize cloud-based remote control, monitoring, notifications, and more from any internet-enabled device, allowing them to stay connected anywhere in the world.

Nureva HDL Pro Series Systems Earn HETMA Approved Status

Nureva's HDL310 and HDL410 systems have been added to the HETMA  Approved Products list. Evaluators gave the systems an overall score of “exceeds expectations” after assessing them for performance, quality, and network and security. HETMA’s rigorous testing process evaluates products through the lens of technical managers in higher education institutions, focusing on real-world scenarios and diverse classroom and conference room configurations. In their summary, the evaluators stated the Nureva HDL310 and HDL410 systems would become part of their thought process in future classroom planning.

[SCN Hall of Fame 2025: David Martin]

The Nureva HDL pro series systems were praised for their exceptional audio pickup, noise reduction capabilities and adaptability to challenging acoustic spaces. HETMA evaluators commented that both systems outperformed existing room systems, with the microphone pickup rivaling or even exceeding that of common ceiling-mounted microphone arrays from other manufacturers. They also praised the general quality of the systems and noted that everything worked seamlessly out of the box, with easy setup and straightforward firmware updates. The evaluators concluded the HDL310 and HDL410 systems are well suited for hybrid and flexible learning setups, making them an invaluable addition to higher education classrooms and meeting spaces.

 RGB Spectrum and Dejero Partner

RGB Spectrum and Dejero, a manufacturer of resilient connectivity solutions, are partnering. The strategic partnership combines Dejero's connectivity technology—aggregating the bandwidth of multiple network providers, including 4G, LTE-A, 5G, fiber, IP connections, and LEO, MEO, and GEO satellites—to deliver enhanced reliability, expanded coverage, and greater bandwidth for connecting mobile workforces and remote locations to command centers. 

Paired with RGB Spectrum's advanced visualization solutions, this collaboration empowers government, civilian, and military agencies with a mobile solution for unparalleled situational awareness and operational control. Dejero’s connectivity solutions are trusted by organizations such as the U.S. Department of Defense, U.S. Department of Homeland Security, and Toronto Police Service. RGB Spectrum’s advanced video solutions are utilized by the U.S. Army, Navy, and Air Force, the Missile Defense Agency, NASA, as well as fire, police, and 911 centers.

At the forefront of this partnership is the IPX Flyaway Kit, a deployable, miniaturized command-and-control solution designed for real-time video distribution, visualization, and decision-making in the most demanding environments.

Visix Celebrates 45 Years of Innovation in Visual Communications

Visix is celebrating 45 years in business. The company has grown to serve more than 4000 clients across three continents, evolving its software, hardware and services to help organizations create, manage and deliver more engaging communications to their audiences.

Visix’s mission is simple: “help people communicate better.” By developing products that are easy to use and access, the company aims to improve the quality and reach of visual messaging for a more dynamic user and audience experience.

Founded in 1980 as Tech Electronics (TEi), the company initially offered black box products such as programmable video controllers and media retrieval systems. In 2000, it launched AxisTV, its first digital signage content management software. Under the leadership of Sean Matthews since 2004, the company shifted its focus to software development. By 2006, all non-AxisTV products were retired, and the company rebranded as Visix to reflect its new direction.

From the start, Visix has partnered with a broad network of AV/IT resellers, bringing its products to corporate, education, government, healthcare and hospitality customers across the globe. Over time, the company has become the preferred digital signage vendor for higher education, serving over 1,000 colleges and universities with software features tailored to campus environments. Visix has continuously expanded the reach and impact of its solutions, redefining the concept of digital signage by extending visual messaging to room signs, websites, desktops and mobile devices. The company has also incorporated interactive design services and space booking solutions, establishing itself as a comprehensive visual communications provider. 

The new year has been quite busy in the world of Pro AV. Before we get to the people movers and new partnerships, let's get caught up on some big acquisitions you may have missed.

DPA Microphones Acquires Austrian Audio

DPA Microphones has acquired the majority share of Vienna-based Austrian Audio. Founded in 2017 by former AKG Vienna employees, Austrian Audio builds on that heritage to deliver high-quality audio products.

Leveraging over 350 years of combined engineering experience, the mission of the Austrian Audio team is to “Make Passion Heard.” This is accomplished by developing and producing innovative microphones, headphones and audio tools while maintaining a strong connection to the brand’s deep acoustical heritage.

Austrian Audio caught the attention of DPA Microphones with its fast-growing brand, highly skilled team of dedicated engineers and product portfolio that complements DPA’s offerings perfectly. DPA has several Miniature Microphone categories while Austrian Audio has a strong offering of Large Diaphragm Microphones. Both companies address the high end of the market, with DPA positioned at the very top and Austrian Audio offering a wider span in its product range. 

In other acquisition news:

• AVI Systems is starting the New Year with a new acquisition. It will acquire AVCON, a systems integration firm that designs, installs, and maintains AVL technologies for companies, houses of worship, and other organizations. The acquisition will close on Jan. 15 and will include transitioning all AVCON employees to AVI Systems. Read all the details here. 
• On New Year’s Day, Houston-based LD Systems celebrated its 50th anniversary and took a significant step toward securing its next 50 years, as it was acquired by the Clair Global Group. Get caught up with SCN's coverage here. 
• Systems integrator Xpect Solutions, which has been delivering IT and physical security solutions to federal agencies for more than 20 years, recently announced its acquisition of GovDefender, which is known for systems modernization as well as enterprise IT web, mobile, and application development. Here are the details. 

Now, onto the latest Pro AV news. 

People News

ACT Entertainment Marks Two Promotions

ACT Entertainment is marking two promotions and a retirement in the company’s technical service department. CTO Mario Collazo retires from the firm while Ryan Kanarek has been promoted to director of technical services and Dustin Barnes has been elevated to the role of software support manager.

Collazo retired after 29 years of service at ACT Entertainment; he joined ACT in 1996 and became CTO three years ago. One of the company’s longest tenured employees, Collazo leaves in place a roster of experienced technical personnel who ensure that ACT’s service and support will continue to be best in class.

Barnes, who joined ACT in August 2021 to bolster the team’s grandMA3 software support and has more recently become a zactrack product specialist, steps into the software support manager post previously held by Kanarek.

AVPro Global Appoints Loel Wheeler as VP of Sales for Murideo

AVPro Global has appointment of Loel Wheeler as VP of sales for Murideo, the company's test and measurement tools division. This strategic move aims to expand AVPro's global reach in high-performance electrical test equipment designed for professional use in the audio/video industry. In his new role, Wheeler reports directly to Mike Detmer, AVPro's COO, overseeing the worldwide expansion of Murideo products, including the latest innovative STIX Ecosystem of compact signal transmission and data reception verification devices.

Wheeler brings two decades of sales experience in video testing and audio/video connectivity to his new position, holding certifications such as CTS, ISF, ISF-C, HAA, and DSCE. His expertise in the field is expected to drive Murideo's growth and solidify its position as a leading provider of advanced testing tools for the audio/video calibration and installation markets. 

Jim Lien Joins BARNFIND-USA 

Jim Lien has joined BARNFIND-USA as its new leader, stepping into the role of VP  marketing and administration.
 
Lien brings a wealth of experience to this position. With over 40 years in the broadcast and audiovisual industries, his broad knowledge base spans video engineering, production, satellite transmission, system integration, and project management. Over the years, he has held roles in sales and marketing with  companies such as Grass Valley, Snell & Wilcox, Leitch, Christie Digital, Harmonic, and Toner Cable, to name a few.

Daktronics Welcomes George Muench to Sales Team

Daktronics welcomed George Muench to the Daktronics sales team to serve sign company partners, organizations, billboard owners, and schools within central Wisconsin and the Upper Peninsula of Michigan, including Madison, Wausau, and Fox Valley. He will work with customers to understand their needs and provide the proper digital LED solutions and services for high schools, out of home and commercial on premise markets.

Muench has experience in both manufacturing and sales. He worked in sales at a construction supplies company, communicating with vendors and managing stock and supply. Previously, he has held several positions working in packaging and manufacturing. Most recently, he worked in Daktronics Sports Marketing, helping schools generate revenue through advertising on their video displays.

EMG/Gravity Media Appoints Narinder Ball as Technology Director

EMG / Gravity Media has appointed Narinder Ball as technology director. In her role, Narinder will be responsible for overseeing the company’s technology strategy, driving innovation, and leading its technical teams to deliver cutting-edge solutions that support EMG / Gravity Media's continued growth and success.

Narinder brings over 25 years of experience in the tech industry, having previously held various leadership positions at the BBC, where she was instrumental in leading the technical aspects across many of the most high-profile sporting events including Wimbledon, the FA Cup and the London Marathon to name a few. She also oversaw complex workflows for major events such as the Commonwealth and Olympic Games. 

Her deep expertise in remote production workflows, broadcast infrastructure, connectivity solutions and an appreciation of changing consumer trends along with a proven track record of leading high-performing teams will play a pivotal role in advancing EMG / Gravity Media's technological capabilities.

Marko Jovanović Joins the International Team at IAG

Wharfedale Pro welcomed Marko Jovanović to their International 'Application and Solutions' team. Based in China, Jovanović supports local customers while contributing to the team's global strength.

Jovanović has extensive experience as a live sound engineer, specializing in FOH and stage monitor mixing for events and festivals in Eastern Europe before continuing his career in China since 2015. His expertise in live sound engineering not only includes system design for large-scale events but also encompasses his role as Head of Dept for the world's largest immersive audio system in Shanghai. He also brings R&D experience, having developed professional audio and consumer devices like live PA systems and studio monitors.


Nureva Welcomes Rob Abbott and James Rempel

 Nureva recently made two promotions to key executive positions as part of its growth strategy to expand market presence and deliver greater value to customers worldwide.

Rob Abbott has been appointed EVP, products and strategy, moving from his previous role as VP, products, which he had held since 2016. In his new position, Abbott is focusing on driving Nureva’s top-line growth through strategic initiatives and increased engagement with end users. He is leveraging his extensive product leadership experience to help further align Nureva’s offerings with the evolving needs of customers in corporate and higher education environments globally, while envisioning innovative products that redefine collaboration with ease of use and simplicity in larger spaces. Rob will also continue overseeing technical support and training, reinforcing Nureva’s commitment to delivering exceptional customer experiences.

Additionally, James Rempel has been promoted to VP, products, after serving as Nureva’s director of products since 2018. James brings deep expertise in product management, positioning and pricing, along with significant experience in engaging analysts and promoting Nureva’s solutions to global audiences. In his new role, James takes on expanded responsibilities to drive product innovation, ensuring Nureva’s solutions remain well positioned to meet the growing demand for flexible, high-performance audio solutions.

SMPTE Names Sally-Ann D’Amato to Lead as Executive Director

SMPTE welcomed Sally-Ann D’Amato as executive director. D’Amato formally began this new role on Dec. 18, 2024, after acting as interim executive director since October.

D'Amato joined the SMPTE family in 2001, working as an administrative assistant. She was promoted to executive assistant in 2003, and again promoted to director of operations in 2005. In 2016, she became director of events and governance liaison. In this role, she was responsible for planning and executing events and was also responsible for working with the board on issues of Society governance and board activities. In October 2024, she became the interim executive director.

During her time at SMPTE, D’Amato helped enact the current bylaws and operations manuals. She also has been responsible for producing the Media Technology Summit since 2005, and even produced a virtual version of the event during the COVID-19 pandemic. She also produced the SMPTE centennial celebration in 2016 and incorporates her creativity by writing songs for and performing in many of the events she works on.

Company News

Atlona Partners with Midwest AV 

Atlona has announced Midwest AV as its latest manufacturer’s representative for the Midwest region including Nebraska, Iowa, Wisconsin, Illinois, and Minnesota, effective immediately. Based in Illinois, Midwest AV will drive Atlona’s presence in the education and corporate verticals across the Midwest region by bringing Atlona’s collaboration, connectivity and control products to a broader spectrum of systems integrators and end users.

Midwest AV’s philosophy centers on cultivating meaningful, relationship-driven partnerships as an independent manufacturer’s representative firm. The company takes a proactive, front-and-center approach with its clients and partners, and its relationship with Atlona is no exception.

EAW Opens New HQ in Massachusetts

Eastern Acoustic Works has opened its new headquarters in Franklin, MA. The facility marks a significant milestone in the company’s legacy, reinforcing its commitment to serving the diverse needs of the live sound and installation markets.

Located just 45 minutes from Boston and 30 minutes from Providence, RI, the new 56,000-square-foot standalone building consolidates all EAW operations, advancing the company’s efficiency. The facility includes 32,000 square feet dedicated to production and warehousing, as well as 6,000 square feet of engineering lab space. There are also additional areas for offices and technical service and support, plus a 3,000-square-foot indoor training and demo space and an expansive outdoor demo space.

The enhanced engineering lab space builds on EAW’s legacy of precision testing. “The high ceiling in our acoustics lab, known historically as the ‘PIT lab,’ allows us to measure lower frequencies and provide greater resolution at all frequencies,” explained Geoff McKinnon, senior director of engineering at EAW. “On-site product development and testing strengthens our ability to deliver superior sounding solutions.”

EAW's indoor training and demo space supports classroom-style customer education and will host a video production studio to accommodate virtual training. Two expansive outdoor demo spaces, including a 175-foot throw area and a 300-foot throw area, are supported by 40-foot scaffold towers and rigging that can showcase loudspeaker systems in real-world conditions.

The modernized warehouse and production areas are equipped with advanced systems and infrastructure, enabling faster lead times for customizable products, including color options. “Streamlined logistics and improved production capabilities translate directly into exceeding customer expectations for quality and response times,” said TJ Smith, president of EAW. “The best part of the new headquarters is that the proximity of all departments fosters closer interaction and communication.”

LG Introduces 'LG Schools' Technology Program

LG Electronics USA is launching “LG Schools,” a new ambassador program offering commercial display technology for schools to test, learn, and deploy. Expanding on the LG program designed to meet the needs of educators seeking the best ways to use technology in their curriculum, the LG Schools program will showcase best practices in advancing learning, gather valuable feedback to enhance future solutions and develop demonstration sites for schools outside of the program to visit in order to experience the technology firsthand.

Designated LG Schools, working with LG, can decide which technology best suits their present and future requirements, whether that’s LG CreateBoard digital whiteboards, commercial-grade LED displays, or even LG UltraGear monitors in an eSports demo suite to drive engagement and encourage student attendance. Once individual requirements and implementation plans are finalized, and the product request has been approved by LG with follow-up training, the LG Schools program enables the release of the technology to be used and evaluated by the school.

Listen Technologies Partners with Image Marketing West

Listen Technologies has partnered with manufacturer representative firm Image Marketing West to bring Listen Technologies’ audio solutions to customers and end users in Northern California, Northern Nevada, the Pacific Northwest, Alaska, and Hawaii.

Image Marketing West will sell and recommend Listen Technologies’ full suite of audio solutions, including Ampetronic Hearing Loops, ListenIR, ListenRF, ListenTALK, and its audio over Wi-Fi-based assistive listening system, ListenWIFI. Image Marketing West will also sell Auri, an Auracast broadcast audio-based assistive listening system that Listen Technologies co-developed with Ampetronic. 

Introducing Need Technologies

Introducing Need Technologies, an audiovisual physical security and telecom system integration company founded by industry veteran Charles Freedman. The company has officially launched, as well as its website with a tagline that encapsulates its client-first approach, “We listen to what you want, and guide you to what you need.” Need Technologies aims to enhance how businesses and organizations connect with and leverage technology solutions with its people-first approach.

The culmination of over three decades of industry experience, Need Technologies is the embodiment of Freedman’s lifelong passion for leveraging technology to create meaningful connections. With a career spanning roles at global AV resellers and manufacturers, Freedman has honed a philosophy centered around trust, integrity, and inclusivity. His guiding principle, that tech should serve people, underscores the company’s mission to deliver solutions that prioritize people above all else.

Need Technologies offers a suite of services designed to provide seamless, frictionless experiences that enhance environments.

SC&T Achieves ISO 9001 Certification

SC&T has successfully obtained ISO 9001 certification. This accomplishment underscores our unwavering dedication to quality management and customer satisfaction. What is ISO 9001? ISO 9001 is an internationally recognized standard for Quality Management Systems (QMS), established by the International Organization for Standardization (ISO). 

Achieving ISO 9001 certification signifies that SC&T's products and services meet internationally recognized quality standards. We remain dedicated to providing exceptional CCTV and ProAV transmission equipment and will persistently refine our processes to ensure every customer experiences the highest level of service.

Pro AV Around the Globe

• Visionary has partnered with Avitor, an importer and distributor of professional audiovisual products in Ireland. Under this partnership, Avitor will serve as the exclusive distributor of Visionary’s products throughout Ireland, bringing Visionary to a broader audience.

SMPTE has joined with Avid to publish a new standard for the VC-3 codec in Interoperable Master Format (IMF). The VC-3 standard, a codec implementation that Avid provides under the DNx brand, is a primary production codec used by enterprise media organizations around the world for critical broadcast functions such as capture, editing, rendering, base transcoding, and long-term archive. SMPTE ST 2067-70 is a new standard that specifies an application of the IMF framework covering usage of VC-3 as specified in SMPTE ST 2019-1.

"For many of Avid's customers, the DNx family of codecs, VC-3, is used in their productions as a mezzanine format to maximize quality while obtaining superior editing performance on common off-the-shelf desktop and server platforms," said Avid VP of Technology, Shailendra Mathur. "This newly published standard will ensure that the same mezzanine-quality codec used in production can now be passed through to the IMF mastering stage for distribution."

[ST 2110: An Introduction]

IMF is an important international media standard for providing a single interchangeable master file format and structure for the distribution of content. IMF is a family of SMPTE Standards (SMPTE ST 2067) that simplifies the storage of all the audiovisual content needed to create different versions for distribution to multiple territories and platforms in one package. It is an essential component of modern, high-scale content fulfillment and has enabled the building of simplified delivery and processing systems for versioning. The IMF package itself can be used for B2B content exchange between content owners, post facilities, and distribution platforms.

As VC-3 is a primary production codec used when delivering to a variety of broadcasters, the new ST 2067-70 standard covers its usage with IMF, which enables delivery in VC-3 codecs that closely matches the ideals of IMF in keeping the maximum quality possible for future distribution/reversion and archive. The standard allows any broadcast facility to deliver final assets for broadcast/archive with as much of the original creative intent in place as possible. It also offers a choice to use a constant bit rate (CBR) codec profile, which enables predictability for storage and network transport. The standardization will provide time and cost savings, and it bypasses quality degradation due to the ability to pass through previously encoded content without having to transcode into a different format.

[SCN Goes Inside: NSCA Boosts Next-Generation Integration at XBO Experience]

The DPP, an organization whose membership spans the media supply chain including media technology and production companies, initially approached SMPTE and Avid as a co-proponent in the development of this standard, which offers significant workflow advantages over the alternatives currently in the specification, including the easy insertion of changes (before creating a final IMF deliverable) and potentially faster turnaround times.

"It has been great to support the collaboration between Avid and SMPTE to enable the use of VC-3 codec within the IMF framework," said DPP technology strategist David Thompson. "This addition meets a clear business need for companies who use VC-3 as their primary production codec and wish to adopt IMF for distribution and archiving."

[Doubling Down on Dante]

"We are pleased to be working with SMPTE on improvements to the DNx family of codecs, VC-3, for the benefit of our valued member partners in the DPP," said Avid CTO Kevin Riley. "Avid understands that improving DNx is critical to our customers in keeping existent media processing chains intact. This new standard maintains the ability for our DNx codec to be storage- and network-friendly while also producing time and cost savings, as the delivery format can now match the production codec used by our partners and customers."

The astounding resolution of an 8K monitor is 7,680x4,320 pixels. That's four times as much resolution delivered by a 4K monitor and 16 times the resolution of a 1080p HD display. But while 8K TVs are now available at Best Buy, Walmart, and other major retailers, the technology is having a hard time grabbing the public’s attention like HDTV did.

The reasons?

“8K may be suffering from slow sales because the consumer market has never been fully saturated with 4K—and then 8K came along too quickly following it,” offered Renard T. Jenkins, president of the Society of Motion Picture and Television Engineers (SMPTE). “Another thing to keep in mind is that the typical human optical system [vision] cannot easily decipher a significant difference between 4K and 8K. That makes it hard to justify increased costs for a broadcaster, prosumer, or consumer."

[Diamond Days and Displays]

That said, Marc Finer, founder and director of Communication Research, said 8K's initial introduction more than five years ago wasn't really based on content. Instead, it was driven by "advancements in panel fabrication and an interest in the fabricators and manufacturers of displays to elevate the market to the next level,” he said. “In recent times, there's been a newfound discovery of the impact of immersive viewing on the end user in almost every application imaginable.”

It is this level of ultra-accurate immersive viewing that makes 8K so appealing to Pro AV designers and installers today. “Our industry is driven by innovation and enhancing the user experience, along with delivering the emotional impact associated with the highest quality, most lifelike audio and video content,” explained Mike Fidler, executive director of the 8K Association. “The significant enhancement in resolution and pixel density offered by 8K provides the creative community with the tools they need to achieve greater realism and more emotionally engaging storytelling, particularly in conjunction with the latest advances in TV technology like mini and microLED, QLED, and OLED displays.”

Assorted Applications

The fact that 8K TVs are still rarities at home doesn’t detract from their usefulness in business, education, and government—all markets that consume Pro AV services. Case in point: “8K is essential where precision and image clarity is needed, such as high-end gaming and professional video editing,” said Joe Drury, Pro BRAVIA business manager, Sony. “It is also important for certain industries such as healthcare, engineering, and design where accuracy of visualization is pivotal.”

[Strategies and Solutions for Corporate Campus Displays]

In the broadcast and content production industries, Jenkins said 8K can easily make a case for archival use and better origin file from production. But that’s just the beginning.

“The 8K ecosystem has advanced far beyond its initial introduction and today provides full end-to-end technology solutions including image capturing, pre and post production, editing, encoding and decoding, distribution, and displays,” said Fidler. “8K also supports other advanced new technologies, such as the latest AI upscaling processors that provide the ability to upgrade from HD and 4K to near 8K performance. Additionally, 8K is gaining a strong foothold in the smartphone, camera, and gaming categories, as well commercial applications like security and medicine.”

Speaking of broadcasting, the 8K Association recently assisted Intel at an event in Los Angeles demonstrating live 8K streaming of the 2024 Olympics from Paris. “The sheer immersiveness and sense of ‘being there’ impressed all those that attended," Fidler recalled, "and underscores the opportunity for companies to deliver this exceptional experience to consumers. This is why NHK in Japan is already delivering two 8K channels—and 8K content is also being streamed via YouTube.”

[CEDIA 2024: Resi Integrators Are Going Commercial]

The takeaway: 8K is already proving its worth in a wide range of Pro AV applications. As such, the enhanced resolution offered by 8K, combined with the degree of future-proofing that installing 8K monitors provides to Pro AV customers, begs a very simple question for Pro AV personnel: Why would you install 4K today when 8K is available now?

Clearing Hurdles

The fact that there is a solid business case for 8K in Pro AV doesn’t mean that the transition to this new standard will be free of hurdles. In fact, there are a number that will have to be cleared.

“There are currently limitations with 8K going mainstream,” said Drury. “In the professional environment, the content has to either be cast or provided by storage, which this content would strain. The ideal speed for 8K is 100 Mbps per device, and a single minute of 8K footage can require approximately 20 GB of storage.”

Then there’s the issue of streaming. Experts say a minimum of 50 Mbps is needed to transport flawless 8K video to end users, versus 25 Mbps for 4K and 5 Mbps for 1080p. The good news? According to the 8K Association, the use of the H.266 codec—also known as Versatile Video Coding or VVC—can reduce the capacity needed to stream 8K to 40 Mbps, which is why the association is backing this standard.

“The final standard for VVC was completed in July 2020,” Fidler noted. “Mediatek, an 8K Association board member, has introduced advanced SoCs that incorporate VVC. Now, there are still issues to resolve related to IP and licensing before we can see widespread hardware adoption. However, we anticipate future support from all of the key players in the TV, mobile, and computer space, given the significant advantages that VVC provides in compression efficiency and bit rate improvement.”

As a result, the 8K Association believes that the transition to 8K will take more time than the switch to 4K. “Although there is a growth in content being shot in 8K, there is slower growth due to the size of media, additional costs to create and store content, and challenges to current infrastructure for playback,” Fidler explained. “It takes time to build the necessary infrastructure, develop compelling content, and improve the ability to deliver this content using more efficient algorithms. Time also enables TV makers to improve their production capabilities with greater scale while continuing to drive other advances.”

[Captivating Congregations]

Fidler’s concerns are echoed by SMPTE’s Jenkins. “To be honest, it always comes down to distribution efficiency, compression, file size, and simplicity in the workflow,” he said. “If any of those factors lag behind, adoption will lag as well. This is why the industry, including SMPTE, have been and continue to work to improve these factors and foster interoperability, which we feel will lead to adoption.”

According to many experts, 8K is the Next Big Thing in video picture resolution. Although its improved clarity may not stand out in home settings when 4K is already in use, 8K offers a truer "step up" for video clarity in Pro AV installations, immersive or not. This is why 8K is too big a trend for Pro AV to ignore—enhanced picture quality means greater creative possibilities for Pro AV creators, integrators, and end users.

It was a busy week in Pro AV. SMPTE announces its 2025 board, Sean Perkins joined NAB, and yes, another acquisition, this one by Britannia Row Productions, a Clair Global brand.

In case you missed it, Vizrt named a new CEO last week. Rohit Nagarajan joined Vizrt with over two decades of experience in the technology industry. He has held pivotal roles across multiple geographies at SAP, SoftwareONE, and Salesforce. You can read our full coverage here. 

Now, let's get to it. 

People News

Sean Perkins Joins NAB

The National Association of Broadcasters (NAB) welcomed Sean Perkins as chief marketing officer and SVP of global connections and events (GCE), where he oversees marketing efforts for NAB Show and NAB Show New York. Perkins drives strategies aimed at increasing engagement and visibility for NAB’s premier events. 

Perkins brings more than 30 years of marketing expertise spanning business-to-business and business-to-consumer sectors, with extensive experience in industries including media, technology, digital commerce and nonprofit. Throughout his career, Perkins has led successful marketing efforts for notable brands such as AOL, Amtrak, AARP, Intel, Sage, Neustar and the Consumer Technology Association (CTA). Most recently, as VP of marketing at CTA, Perkins directed the comprehensive marketing and advertising efforts for CES, the association’s annual trade event. 

Sonance Welcomes Director of Sales for Professional Audio

Sonance appointed trusted industry expert, Glenn Kalinowski, as director of sales for professional audio. Kalinowski oversees key territories in North America, including Canada, as well as develop global strategic partnerships, all aimed at driving the company’s growth in the professional audio market.

Kalinowski joins Sonance with over 30 years of experience in the Pro AV industry. Throughout his career, he has held diverse roles ranging from systems installer to systems designer, director of operations, and numerous senior roles in sales management. Most recently, Kalinowski served as senior business manager for North America at Harman, where he managed key business initiatives and partnerships. Prior to Harman, he spent time at Bose Professional, contributing to their significant business growth. His extensive industry knowledge and proven track record of success in professional audio are a tremendous asset to Sonance as the company continues to invest in growth opportunities across the commercial audio sector.  

Uniguest Brings in Shawn O’Connell to Lead Americas Sales

Uniguest has appointed Shawn O’Connell to the role of EVP of sales Americas. He brings 20 years of experience in AV and technology, having previously been head of hospitality sales at Samsung for twelve years and a senior member of the PSAV team for more than eight years.

O'Connell oversees teams focused on AV channel sales for all commercial markets including hospitality, healthcare, and senior living in the Americas. Additionally, 20-plus year AV industry veteran James Keen has been promoted to EVP of marketing and will work closely with O’Connell.

DMF Promotes Mike Libman to Sales VP, Custom Integrators

DMF Lighting has promoted Mike Libman to sales VP, custom integrators. Previously DMF Lighting’s national sales director, Libman now steps into this expanded role, tasked with leading the company’s custom integration sales efforts across North America.
 
Libman’s career at DMF Lighting spans more than nine years, during which he has driven substantial growth across roles, from regional sales manager to national channel sales manager for the CEDIA space. His recent position as national sales director saw him develop strategies to empower integrators with versatile lighting solutions that elevate residential environments. Libman’s collaborative approach and effective leadership have helped establish DMF Lighting as a trusted brand known for its forward-thinking design, intuitive engineering, and responsive s

SMPTE Announces 2025 Leadership

SMPTE introduced the board officers and regional governors who will serve terms beginning in January 2025.

Three new SMPTE officers have been elected for a two-year term from Jan. 1, 2025, to Dec. 31, 2026. The new SMPTE officers include SMPTE president Richard Welsh, EVP Eric Gsell, and SMPTE education VP Polly Hickling. One SMPTE officer, Lisa Hobbs, will be continuing her service as SMPTE secretary and treasurer for another two-year term. Additionally, Raymond Yeung will be stepping into the role of standards vice president on Jan. 1, 2025.

In addition to the officers, 10 regional governors were elected by the Society to serve two-year 2025-2026 terms. These include the following regional governors, re-elected to continue their service:

• Asia-Pacific Region Governor: Tony Ngai, Society of Motion Imaging Ltd.
• EMEA - Central & South America Region Governor: Fernando Bittencourt, FB Consultant
• United Kingdom Region Governor: Chris Johns, Sky UK
• USA-Central Region Governor: William T. Hayes, Consultant
• USA-Eastern Region Governor: Dover Jeanne Mundt, Riedel Communications
• USA-Western Region Governor: Jeffrey F. Way, Open Drives
• Also elected were four newcomers to the SMPTE Board:
  • Canada Region Governor: Jonathan Jobin, Grass Valley
  • USA-Hollywood Region Governor: Allan Schollnick, Voxx Studios
  • USA-Hollywood Region Governor: Brian Gaffney, MTI FILM LLC
  • USA-New York Region Governor: Jeff D. Cohen, Meta Martis

LEA Professional Strengthens EMEA Team

LEA Professional welcomed Jeff Gorton as sales director in EMEA. Gorton supports the sales of LEA’s technology catalog, featuring advancements in intelligent IT solutions, best in class DSP, and smart power management.

Gorton has nearly 20 years of experience in Pro AV sales. Throughout his career, he has improved sales for companies and overseen global distribution. At LEA, Gorton is focusing on enhancing sales in the EMEA region by leveraging his close relationship with LEA’s outstanding network of EMEA distributors. He brings will help bring LEA’s entire catalog to customers in the EMEA region.

Company News

Exertis Almo Announces 2025 Dates and Locations

The E4 Experience, Exertis Almo's single-day traveling education, training, and AV tech expo for integrators and their end users, is returning in 2024. Attendees can earn a combined total of about 1,500 valuable AVIXA CTS Renewal Units without the burdens of travel or extended time away from AV projects.

Winner of a 2024 SCN Stellar Service Award, the 2025 E4 Experience is returning in the Spring with the line up already set, giving the AV industry ample time to plan ahead:

• Dallas, Texas: March 11
• New York Metro: April 2
• Santa Clara, CA: September 10
• Oakbrook, IL: October 7

Plus 4 Audio Joins Clair Global Group

Britannia Row Productions, a Clair Global brand, has acquired Plus 4 Audio. Founded in 2001, Plus 4 Audio has built its reputation for innovation and development in broadcast audio, offering equipment and services to television and streaming services including the BBC, ITV, Channel 4, Channel 5, Sky, Pinewood Studios, and Elstree Studios, and outside broadcast companies including NEP, theatrical producers, event organizers, and major record labels.  

Known for expertise in audio mixing, engineering, and sound design, the company has pioneered solutions that enhance the clarity, richness, and quality of audio for live and recorded television productions. With its dedicated team of industry experts, Plus 4 Audio has a deep understanding of the complex requirements of broadcast audio, from large-scale live events to serialized programming.  

Plus 4 Audio will continue to operate from its Chessington, Greater London, warehouse and retain the company's valued team members who bring specialized audio knowledge and exceptional client services to the group.

Smart Monkeys Announces Software Development Partnership with Control Concepts

Smart Monkeys, a show control design and programming firm, and Control Concepts agreed to a strategic partnership to develop and support third-party product integration for the ISAAC by Smart Monkeys platform.

With the merger of AV and IT demonstrated by the prevalence of network-based products and systems, manufacturers and their clients continue to emphasize the need for a unified, comprehensive platform that satisfies all their management and monitoring needs.  ISAAC by Smart Monkeys offers just that by providing users the ability to monitor, manage, schedule, log, and receive alerts from their systems, products, endpoints, and network assets. 

 This strategic partnership provides manufacturers with a proven, trusted resource, endorsed by Smart Monkeys, who can ensure seamless product integration, maintenance, and ongoing support for ISAAC integration.

QuickLink Expands Reseller Partner Network

QuickLink has expanded its reseller partner network, providing additional support and benefits for partners through its new Certified Partner Program. As part of this initiative, QuickLink also introduces a new Reseller Locator platform, enabling customers to easily find authorized QuickLink Partners. These enhancements represent the company’s continued dedication to supporting resellers and advancing the end-user experience through a highly skilled and accessible partner ecosystem.

QuickLink’s new Certified Partner Program introduces two exclusive tiers, Gold and Platinum. These two tiers provide QuickLink partners with access to a comprehensive set of resources, training, and promotional opportunities. These new initiatives are part of QuickLink’s strategic growth and commitment to helping partners succeed in delivering connectivity solutions.

The new Reseller Locator tool provides a streamlined customer experience, connecting businesses and individuals with certified resellers who can offer tailored solutions based on QuickLink’s innovative product range.

Origin Acoustics Expands Strategic Partnership with Phoenix Marketing

Origin Acoustics has expanded its strategic partnership with Phoenix Marketing Group (PMG). This enhanced alliance will deepen both companies' efforts to curate and deliver innovative, design-centric technology solutions to integrators across the United States, with a specific focus on advancing the OA Home experience.

Phoenix Marketing has been a partner of Origin Acoustics since 2016, initially representing the brand in the Southeast, later expanding into the Middle Atlantic, and now across the entire nation, except for the Pacific Northwest, which will continue to be expertly represented by Marketshare. With this new phase of the partnership, Phoenix Marketing will represent Origin Acoustics nationwide. Its extensive sales team of over 30 highly trained professionals will become an extension of Origin’s own team, ensuring that dealers receive the consistent, exceptional service and support Origin is known for in all regions.

At the heart of this expanded partnership is a shared vision for the OA Home—an ecosystem that integrates Origin’s portfolio of brands and solutions into a seamless experience for integrators and end users alike. The OA Home starts with ONE: One control platform, One app, One ecosystem, and One partner. It brings together like-minded brands, product solutions, and people to push the boundaries of what is possible in intelligent living.

Through this collaboration, integrators can deliver innovation to their clients by uniting a suite of design-centric technology that includes audio, video, lighting, and shading solutions—all integrated into one seamless, intuitive experience.

Another week in Pro AV has passed and another acquisition made headlines, as did an LG and Mo-Sys partnership.

Convergint acquired Esscoe, a provider of mission-critical security and fire and life safety systems in the Chicago and Midwest regions, enabling Convergint to accelerate growth across the Midwestern U.S.—building on Esscoe’s long-standing reputation for delivering innovative solutions to its customers. Read the full story here. 

LG Electronics acquired a stake in Mo-Sys Engineering. The strategic seed investment and partnership will expand LG Business Solution’s capabilities in the virtual production and broadcasting technology segments, enabling LG to deliver a more comprehensive lineup of sophisticated hardware and software-based solutions, according to Ki-mun Paik, SVP and head of the Information Display business unit of LG Business Solutions Company. You can read our full coverage here. 

Here's what you missed. 

[On Your Business: Sales Is Not a Four-Letter Word]

People News

Kira Baca Appointed CRO for Newly Merged Fabric x Xytech Entity

The newly combined entity of Fabric and Xytech Systems, currently known as Fabric x Xytech, appointed Kira Baca as chief revenue officer (CRO). With over 25 years of experience in the media and entertainment (M&E) services and technology sector, Baca plays a pivotal role in driving revenue strategies and spearheading growth initiatives for the combined organization.

Baca’s impressive career includes leadership roles at Technicolor Creative Services, SDI Media (now Iyuno), Sony NMS, and Rightsline, where she was instrumental in revenue growth and global expansion. Most recently, she served as chief revenue officer at Atelier Creative Technologies, where she developed a new go-to-market strategy and established the global teams for sales, business development and strategic partnership teams. Throughout her career, Baca has managed global client accounts for major entertainment companies, orchestrated international mergers, and secured transformative technology deals. In August 2023, she was appointed to the Board of Directors for Fabric and has been closely collaborating with Rob Delf and the team during their rapid growth and market expansion.    

Follow-Me appoints Thijs Bruins as Global Sales Manager

Follow-Me, manufacturers of high-end performer tracking solutions for lighting, immersive audio, video mapping and stage automation applications, appointed Thijs Bruins as global sales manager.

Bruins oversees the Follow-Me global sales network, aligning existing partners, expanding the network to improve customer experience and providing a strong base for the company’s future growth. He has a wealth of technical expertise, starting out at a young age as a lighting technician and continuing to juggle this freelance work and training, Bruins moved on to the role of manager of special projects at Trekwerk, before joining TAIT as business development manager where oversaw the growth of TAIT’s presence in Europe through the pandemic.

Peter Thomsen Appointed as Commercial Director at nxtedition

nxtedition appointed of Peter Thomsen as its new commercial director. With an impressive track record in the international media industry, Thomsen brings a wealth of expertise to nxtedition.

Thomsen’s career in media technology began with NTP Technology, where he developed his technical expertise in audio solutions and broadcast infrastructure. He then transitioned to Danmon Systems where he excelled in systems integration, project management, and business development. His success in driving business growth at Danmon positioned him to lead the establishment of Qvest’s operations in the Nordics, where he played a pivotal role in expanding the company’s presence and delivering innovative media technology solutions.

RCF Appoints Manager of Installed Sound and System Designs

RCF has appointed Jim Reed to the newly created position manager of installed sound and system designs. In his new position, Jim Reed is tasked with spearheading business development in the permanent integration market sector, including working with integrators on system design, and serving as liaison between RCF’s U.S. operation and the headquarters in Italy, reinforcing the ongoing development of market-driven products for the system integration market sector.

From the start of his time with RCF in sales and products support, Reed drew upon his history in the audio industry working as an A1 audio technician, FOH engineer, and installation project manager for several AV companies to quickly establish himself as the lead product specialist for the U.S. With a primary focus on the installation and larger production company markets, he developed a range of training and instructional materials for RCF, including videos and in-person training seminars, covering topics from basic audio theory to comprehensive system design. His expertise extends to on-site product demonstrations and sales training seminars for some of the largest AV retailers in the U.S.

From the start of his time with RCF in sales and products support, Reed drew upon his rich history in the audio industry working as an A1 audio technician, FOH engineer, and installation project manager for several AV companies to quickly establish himself as the lead product specialist for the U.S. With a primary focus on the installation and larger production company markets, he developed a range of training and instructional materials for RCF, including videos and in-person training seminars, covering topics from basic audio theory to comprehensive system design. His expertise extends to on-site product demonstrations and sales training seminars for some of the largest AV retailers in the U.S.

USSI Global Welcomes Christina Murgo

USSI Global has added an experienced AV and digital signage professional to its leadership team as the company prepares for business growth in a thriving industry sector. Christina Murgo joined USSI Global’s Digital Signage and Technology Group as director of sales and business development, leading a new initiative to bring the company’s enterprise-level project management model to a broader customer base. 

Murgo is tasked with applying USSI Global’s proven model to meet the needs of medium-to-large digital signage networks that can benefit from a turnkey approach. That includes developing custom service plans and select value-added services that align with the capital budgets of each customer and preserve the long-term integrity of the technology and infrastructure. Murgo’s 25 years of experience across diverse roles with NEC, Scala and AVI-SPL provide the foundation for success in an exciting role.

SMPTE’s David Grindle to Conclude Term as Executive Director

David Grindle will conclude his term as the SMPTE’s executive director on Oct. 18. Grindle has served SMPTE in this role for two years, guiding its ongoing evolution and growth in supporting professionals across the industry. Collaborating with staff, volunteers, members, and the SMPTE Board of Governors, he has played a central role in making the Society more accessible and valuable to its global membership—from students and early career professionals to well-established creatives, engineers, and executives working in media and entertainment.

[ST 2110: An Introduction]

As executive director, Grindle led SMPTE in launching new products and educational initiatives designed to bring added benefits to both individual members and corporate partners. The Society’s achievements during his tenure include making standards and self-study courses available free on demand to members, expanding outreach to students and new entrants to the industry, amplifying the organization’s focus on global membership, introducing simpler and more flexible options for membership, and realizing cost reductions and greater operational efficiency. True to form, Grindle also inspired the Society’s members to learn how to tie a bow tie in raising money for the SMPTE Education Fund.

Through technical conferences, industry events and partnerships, and its continually expanding offering of timely educational programs and courses, SMPTE has helped a wide array of media professionals to further their knowledge and careers. To this end, notable accomplishments during Grindle’s tenure include supporting the regionalization of the various German SMPTE Student Chapters, creating a larger cohort and expanding the potential reach of each university’s program; adding Clark Atlanta University, the first HBCU (historically Black colleges and universities) to join the SMPTE Student Chapter family; further augmenting the educational resources and solutions available through SMPTE Rapid Industry Solutions (RIS) initiatives; and launching training courses focused on practical knowledge for IP-based media operations.

Company News

Calrec, LAMA, Lawo, Gallery Sienna, and Telos Alliance Join the Dante Ecosystem

Audinate welcomed new cloud-based solutions from Calrec, Gallery Sienna, LAMA, Lawo, and Telos Alliance to the growing list of applications that support native Dante audio in cloud-based production workflows. The recently released SDK for Dante Connect enables software developers to build Dante audio transmission and reception natively into their cloud-based applications. 

[Head in the Cloud(s)]

Calrec, Gallery Sienna, LAMA, Lawo, and Telos Alliance join the expanding ecosystem of cloud-based software applications to choose direct integration of Dante into their applications. Integrating Dante directly into cloud-based applications enables end customers to connect any existing Dante hardware or software to cloud-based software applications using Dante Connect. 

These new Dante integrations give broadcasters and audio engineers a vast array of new products to choose from when building cloud-based Dante audio production workflows. 

BrightSign Partners with Praevar

Praevar, a manufacturer of intelligent outdoor displays and kiosks, has partnered BrightSign. The collaboration will put BrightSign’s technology inside outdoor and semi-outdoor digital signage and digital out-of-home (OOH) displays.

Since 2016, Praevar has designed and manufactured indoor and outdoor displays for many OOH media companies. The company will combine its commercial-grade displays with the power of BrightSign’s System-on-a-Chip (SoC) solution, BrightSign Built-In. This will transform Praevar’s high-brightness Placard and Podium series displays into all-in-one visual messaging and marketing solutions that users can easily deploy and manage.

The solution meets the growing demand for smart commercial displays with built-in media playback, storage, and management capabilities. It also empowers retailers to extend marketing reach outside the physical limits of brick-and-mortar stores to windowfronts, sidewalks, concourses, and plazas of retail and mixed-use environments.

Since 2016, Praevar has designed and manufactured indoor and outdoor displays for many OOH media companies. The company will combine its commercial-grade displays with the power of BrightSign’s System-on-a-Chip (SoC) solution, BrightSign Built-In. This will transform Praevar’s high-brightness Placard and Podium series displays into all-in-one visual messaging and marketing solutions that users can easily deploy and manage.

Cinegy and Scale Logic to Announce Strategic Partnership

Cinegy and Scale Logic announced a strategic partnership at IBC 2024. The two companies will be working together to extend Cinegy’s presence in the United States and elsewhere, allowing Cinegy to take advantage of Scale Logic’s technical expertise, reseller network and extensive media customer base. U.S.-based and other global customers will be able to acquire complete turnkey media solutions based on Cinegy software and the comprehensive range of hardware and technical competence provided by the long-established and well-respected Scale Logic team.

Scale Logic will be providing integrated solutions for all aspects of broadcast and AV, based around Cinegy’s Archive, Desktop, Capture, Air and Multiviewer applications installed on best-of-breed server, storage and networking solutions.

Boom, TD SYNNEX Ink Major North American Distribution Deal

Videoconferencing manufacturer Boom Collaboration is partnering with TD SYNNEX. Boom’s complete range of high performance cameras, audio and connectivity hardware will be distributed by TD SYNNEX across the United States and Canada.

Per Boom founder Fredrik Hörnkvist, Boom’s MAGNA Pro 4K PTZ camera and innovative HALO, AURA, and UNO videobars are set to become some of the company’s most popular product linest. He also outlined how the new Boom ZYGO multi-connectivity hub will create even more sales opportunities for TD SYNNEX customers. Fellow founder Holli Hulett says the company’s Bring Your Own Device (BYOD) technology ethos and platform agnostic approach will help further drive demand.

“TD SYNNEX is committed to empowering innovative partners to achieve great outcomes with technology,” said Sandi Stambaugh, SVP of vendor business management at TD SYNNEX. “With Boom added to our comprehensive portfolio of vendor partners, we’re able to enrich the breadth and depth of our offerings so customers can continue to accelerate their business and unlock growth for the future.”

Specifi Partners with Nice North America

Specifi announced a new integration with Nice North America, a subsidiary of Nice. The new collaboration, which follows recent successful integrations with brands including Snap One and Masimo Consumer Audio, will empower Nice dealers to create compelling proposals, which enhance client communications through the client portal, and bolster their online presence with Specifi WebBuilder. Additionally, Nice will introduce Specifi’s Builder Tech-Marketing Solutions to their builder and integrator partners. These powerful marketing tools include the creation of builder microsites and proposals that showcase home technology standards and options, simplifying the presentation and sale of tech options through builders.

Matrox Video Appoints Intronics to Serve as Distributor

Matrox Video has a new partnership with value-added distributor (VAD) Intronics, a Netherlands-based specialist in IT, AV, KVM, and industrial custom connectivity solutions. Intronics will focus on supplying Matrox Video's AV-over-IP infrastructure solutions, including the Matrox ConvertIP Series of IPMX/ST 2110-ready encoders, decoders, and converters and the Matrox Maevex 7100 and 6100 Series of encoders and decoders, to customers in Spain and the Benelux region.

[ST 2110: An Introduction]

With headquarters in Barneveld, offices in Belgium and Spain, and additional sales forces throughout Europe, Intronics supplies standard stock products as well as customer-specific solutions in and beyond the Benelux region. The company provides further value through pre- and post-sales technical support, training, and more.

Haivision MCS Awarded $61.2 Million Production Agreement by U.S. Navy

Haivision MCS, a subsidiary of Haivision, was awarded a significant five-year production agreement by the Naval Sea Systems Command (NAVSEA), with an estimated total value of $61.2 million USD (approximately $82 million CAD). This strategic agreement positions Haivision at the forefront of delivering combat visualization and video distribution systems for the U.S. Navy's Surface Combatant Fleet. 

Under this new production agreement, Haivision MCS will provide to the U.S. Navy a comprehensive suite of Haivision ultra-high performance video processing solutions for mission-critical display along with video transcoding, storage, and distribution components. These systems will be integral to the Navy's Combat Information Centers (CICs) across various surface combatant vessels, enhancing situational awareness and mission planning capabilities. The advanced visualization technology is designed to support the Navy’s future combat systems, including those planned for AEGIS Destroyers (DDGs), Aircraft Carriers (CVNs), Amphibious Ships (LHDs, LHA, LPDs), Frigates (FFGs), Littoral Combat Ships (LCSs), and the next-generation United States Coast Guard (USCG) Cutters, among other critical applications. Haivision’s next-generation systems will play a pivotal role in supporting mission-critical applications by delivering superior situational awareness throughout the ship.   

This award builds upon Haivision's ongoing success with the U.S. Navy’s CANES (Consolidated Afloat Networks and Enterprise Services) program, which already leverages Haivision’s real-time video encoding, transcoding, recording, and playback technology for ship-wide video distribution.

Grass Valley and ES Broadcast Sign Strategic Partnership Agreement

Grass Valley reached a strategic partnership agreement (SPA) with ES Broadcast. This agreement marks the continuation and expansion of a long-standing relationship that has flourished over more than a decade, positioning both companies for further growth and success.

The agreement entails a multi-million-dollar annual spend by ES Broadcast across Grass Valley's extensive product portfolio, including live production infrastructure, cameras, and switchers. ES Broadcast, recognized as the first AMPP-certified partner globally, will also emphasize the expansion of the AMPP Platform as a key component of its strategic focus.

ES Broadcast, with a presence in the U.K., mainland Europe, and the United States, is a global business known for its sales and systems integration, as well as its expansive hire business. The company rents Grass Valley camera systems to major sporting, news, and entertainment events across the globe, further solidifying Grass Valley's presence in the industry.

ES Broadcast's commitment to excellence is further demonstrated through its status as an Authorized Service Provider (ASP) for Grass Valley in the U.K., Ireland, Spain, and through its Crosspoint Spain division. This ensures that customers receive certified, knowledgeable, and experienced support services, a crucial component of the ongoing growth strategy for both companies.

While not a brand-new concept, video-over-IP has been steadily evolving over the years, and its growth as a technology is revolutionizing workflows as it becomes more prevalent in products coming to the market. IP video offers an opportunity for users to consolidate equipment, as it allows the use of equipment that manages both network and video functions. It also offers less cabling with bidirectional support and low latency.

[The Integration Guide to AVoIP 2024]

Where IP comes into play is for those who want to move video signals over long distances to other locations in a facility, venue, or campus. For example, someone producing a program on a college campus who needs to send it to the school's TV studio across campus could use IP video over their network to accomplish that. The technology could also be used within a single facility if signals need to be shared within different production studios.

In particular, the SMPTE ST 2110 suite of standards is gaining traction as an option for Pro AV users who want more flexibility with connections, resolutions, and frame rates, as it gives users a path to migrate into low-cost, broadcast-quality IP systems.

Setting the Standard

Released by SMPTE in 2017, ST 2110 specifies the transport, synchronization, and description of 10-bit video, audio, and ancillary data over managed IP networks for broadcast. It can also re-sync SDI inputs to a common PTP clock, or external gear can lock to the reference output that’s also generated from the PTP clock.

ST 2110 typically uses fiber with bandwidths of 10, 25, 40, or 100 Gbps—and its standards are vendor and video format agnostic, so they support 4K, HDR, and other emerging formats. Versus other IP video transport protocols, ST 2110 is more flexible and adaptable, as the standards are open and accessible.

Designed as a new set of applications based on IT protocols and infrastructure, ST 2110 offers IP video as a flexible alternative to SDI, similar in value to when the industry moved from physical tapes to virtual files for content storage. While ST 2110 is still evolving, it has excellent future-proofing potential, great routing capabilities, and separate audio, video and metadata signals. Plus, it doesn’t need to be licensed, and the quality is very high because it’s uncompressed.

Building an ST 2110 system is relatively easy and reliable—and it doesn’t need to be all IP or nothing. There are products on the market today that help users pump in almost any video signal and convert it to ST 2110. For example, take a house of worship with multiple buildings around its campus. It wants to leverage an IP-based workflow, but it wants to retain some of its existing infrastructure instead of tearing everything out and replacing it all, which would be a greater expense.

In this case, when using IP video to send sources to several buildings, each location would need an ST 2110-based converter, but the sources wouldn’t have to return to a central point. Instead, each location could send a source to another location housing a converter, and there would be no need for a dedicated cable for every source and destination. This provides the ability to send signals via IP and bring them in and out of the SDI world, for example, to be able to interact with other products and workflows.

[The ABCs of AVoIP, Part 1]

Another consideration is that ST 2110 is extremely flexible and does not lock users into routing from a specific location. Systems can be spread across departments, campuses, venues, or other various locations, and users still have access to signals as long as they are all on the same network.

Get the Point

ST 2110 products aren’t built solely for the IT world, but because of the network and bandwidth aspects, historically there has been an IT component to developing the workflow and keeping it running. Traditionally, IP video solutions have required IT support, but with advances in today’s technology, almost anyone can make IP workflows a reality.

[Every Day Is Game Day]

For example, the easiest way to use ST 2110 is point-to-point, and for many users that will suffice. All they need is an Ethernet cable between a rack and a monitor converter or camera, which also supplies remote power and bidirectional video. Point-to-point connection can also auto configure, so users don't need to enter any settings. Point-to-point connections offer a great solution in settings like live events, as the Ethernet cable can make connecting to cameras extremely simple with all control, power, and video down a single cable.

If an Ethernet switch is preferred, perhaps for larger implementations, users still have a clear path. As with anything, the larger the system, the more there is to consider, but this shouldn’t be a deterrent. When working in larger ST 2110 systems, such as broadcast, users can connect their video gear to an Ethernet switch and then make the connections between devices by configuring the switch. Products with NMOS are particularly useful in this scenario, as it describes how ST 2110 devices are discovered and controlled on IP networks.

When using an Ethernet switch, instead of point-to-point, it’s a point-to-multipoint situation, and a controller would be needed for the switch to manage all the handshakes. Some companies offer free software controllers if they run on a computer that is on the same network. Other switches can be as big as 100, 200, or 400 ports for large campuses/networks. Don’t be intimidated by a larger setup—while it may be more complex to configure, a ST 2110 setup is still very flexible and achievable for larger systems.

On the bandwidth side, one of the advantages with ST 2110 is that users can split the video and the audio stream, so if there is a poor connection, users can pick just the audio stream. Not having both tied together saves bandwidth, if needed.

Real World Expectations

The latest IP products offer users a lower cost, simplified way to achieve IP video and ST 2110 standards. A wide array of users can benefit from implementing ST 2110 into their systems, including college campuses, television stations, production studios, live events, sets, corporate setups, houses of worship with multiple campuses, and more.

Just like an SD workflow, users can achieve the advantage of ST 2110 IP video with simple Ethernet cables, remote power, and bidirectional video. Plug cameras into rack converters and get all the camera control, program video, power, and tally with a single cable—or connect an HDMI converter to a rack converter for remote monitors, with everything configuring automatically.

Traditionally, one of the biggest problems with ST 2110 was needing an IT tech on standby to keep video systems running. However, today's new technologies are allowing anyone to create self-contained ST 2110 IP systems without needing an IT technician to configure complex multicast settings.

For some users, the extra cost associated with the largest Ethernet switches is a consideration. While many users can use point-to-point connections or even free software switches, larger switches with 100 or more ports can add up for large campuses and networks. However, with the products on the market today, users can now build ST 2110 systems at a dramatically lower cost.

Cat 6 copper cables are simple and Ethernet switches for 10G Ethernet are very common. In many cases, modern buildings already have 10G Ethernet cable installed, so users can take advantage of infrastructure they already have. Copper cables can also power devices such as converters and cameras remotely, and there are models for optical fiber Ethernet. (Optical fiber at 10G speed is much lower cost than 25G or 40G Ethernet.)

[Cloud Power: Pricing Modern Infrastructures]

With ST 2110 becoming more and more prevalent in the industry, advances in technology have made the workflow easier for users. It's safe to say we've reached a point where it is more achievable than ever to implement affordable ST 2110 systems.

SMPTE has introduced the board officers and regional governors who started serving their terms at the beginning of January.

Three SMPTE officers are continuing their service, each for an additional two-year term from Jan 1, 2024, to Dec 31, 2025. The re-elected officers include standards vice president Sally Hattori, finance vice president Paul Stechly, and membership vice president Rose Lockwood. They will continue to serve alongside current board officers president Renard T. Jenkins, EVP Richard Welsh, education director Michael Zink, secretary Lisa Hobbs, and past president Hans Hoffmann.

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"It's an honor to serve SMPTE again," said Lockwood. "Serving SMPTE in any capacity means supporting a good cause, but acting as a vice president for the organization shows that SMPTE members trust me too. I will honor that trust and do what I can for our Society."

In addition to the officers, six regional governors were elected by the Society to serve two-year terms in 2024-2025.

[Everything We Know about the Vegas Sphere, So Far—A Running Blog] 

These include the following regional governors, re-elected to continue their service:

• Asia-Pacific Region: Michael Day, Telstra Australia
• EMEA, Central & South America Region: Dagmar Driesnack, Rohde & Schwarz GmbH & Co. KG
• U.S.-Hollywood Region: Kylee Peña, Adobe
• U.S.-Southern Region: Frank Torbert, WKMG-TV
• Canada Region: Tony Meerakker, Meer Tech Systems
• U.S.-Western Region: Cassidy Phillips, swXtch.io

SMPTE will honor some of the industry's top minds and organizations at its annual Awards Gala, Thursday, Oct. 19, at the conclusion of the 2023 SMPTE Media Technology Summit. The Gala, sponsored by Warner Bros. Discovery, will take place in the Ray Dolby Ballroom within the Ovation Hollywood.

"One of the great joys of SMPTE is to honor the work of those who often go unseen by the public," SMPTE executive director David Grindle stated. "Without whose contributions to media production and distribution, that same public would not enjoy the media they do."

This year, 17 honors will be bestowed upon 35 individuals and organizations. Among these is the supreme accolade of the Society, Honorary Membership, which recognizes individuals who have performed eminent service in the advancement of engineering in motion pictures, television, or in the allied arts and sciences, counting the likes of Thomas Edison, George Eastman, Samuel L. Warner, David Sarnoff, Walt Disney, Ray Dolby, George Lucas, Richard Edlund, James Cameron, and Peter Jackson among its ranks. This year, Honorary Membership will be conferred on Philipp Lawo, in recognition of his pioneering of audio and media networking technology, which has significantly advanced broadcast facilities and live production including the world's largest live sporting events.

[Blueprint for Success: Dance in the Rain]

The Progress Medal, established in 1935, is the Society's most prestigious medal award and recognizes outstanding technical contributions to the progress of engineering phases of the motion-imaging industries. This year, the Society will recognize John Christopher Gaeta for his contributions to Virtual Cinema, Volumetric Capture, and "Bullet Time" in the original Matrix film trilogy.

The Natalie M. and Herbert T. Kalmus Medal was established in 1955 and renamed in 2020. The award recognizes outstanding contributions that reflect a commitment to the highest standards of quality and innovation in motion picture post-production and distribution services. This year, SMPTE will honor Douglas Walker for his contributions to the motion picture industry, including as chief architect of the OpenColorIOv2 open-source project, a robust color management solution widely adopted in motion picture production and post-production workflows, and his work on the implementation of the Common LUT Format (CLF), a cross-platform mechanism for communicating complex color management transforms.

The Samuel L. Warner Memorial Medal, sponsored by Warner Bros. Discovery, was established in 1946 and recognizes outstanding contributions in the design and development of new and improved methods and/or apparatus for motion picture sound. This year, Rolv Gjestland will be recognized for his contributions to cinema auditorium design in all presentation aspects, including sound and picture.

The David Sarnoff Medal, sponsored by SRI International, was established in 1950 and recognizes outstanding contributions to the development of new techniques or equipment that have improved the engineering phases of television technology. This year, Michael A. Dolan will be honored for his significant contributions to the development and implementation of the ATSC 3.0 digital transmission standard's IMSC1 IP-based closed-captioning standard.

[Welcome to the AV Renaissance] 

The Excellence in Education Medal, sponsored by William C. Miller and Ellen Sontag-Miller, was established in 2016 and recognizes outstanding contributions to new or unique educational programs that teach the technologies of motion imaging and advance the educational process through innovative and inspirational methods. This year, SMPTE recognizes Dr. Wolfgang Ruppel for his contributions to media technology education in Germany, particularly during more than 15 years leading the engineering department at RheinMain University.

The Workflow Systems Medal, sponsored by Leon D. Silverman, was established in 2012 and recognizes outstanding contributions related to the development and integration of workflows that enhance creativity, collaboration, efficiency, or novel approaches to the production, post-production, or distribution process. This year, SMPTE will honor OpenColorIO for its open standard color management solution, designed for media production, emphasizing visual effects and computer animation.

The Digital Processing Medal was established in 2012 and recognizes significant technical achievements related to the development of digital processing of content for motion pictures, television, games, or other related media. This year, the award will be presented to Karlheinz Brandenburg in recognition of his fundamental contributions to developing MPEG digital audio compression systems.

The Camera Origination and Imaging Medal was established in 2012 and recognizes significant technical achievements related to invention or advances in imaging technology. This year, SMPTE will recognize Rudolf P. Koppe for developing the technology that enabled the transmission of full bandwidth HD camera signals over existing triax cable, allowing a rapid transition to high-definition television production in the studio and at remote locations.

[Running from Fears in Pro AV] 

The James A. Lindner Archival Technology Medal, sponsored by Lindner, was established in 2012 and recognizes significant technical advancements or contributions related to the archive or preservation of media content essence. This year, Richard D. Wright will be honored for more than three decades of leadership in audiovisual preservation, which has contributed significantly to developing quality standards in large-scale archival digitization initiatives.

The Excellence in Standards Award recognizes those who have been actively involved in advancing the Society's standards, activities, and processes. This year's award will be presented to Florian Schleich for his tireless efforts as SMPTE Standards Vice-President and chair of the 35PM technology committee. The Louis F. Wolf Jr. Memorial Scholarship is designed to assist students in furthering their undergraduate or graduate studies in motion pictures and television, with an emphasis on technology. The 2023 scholarship will be awarded to SMPTE Student Member José Solé of New York University.

The Citation for Outstanding Service to the Society recognizes dedicated service to SMPTE, particularly at the Section level. This year, three individuals will be honored with this award: David Edwin Acker, for his unwavering dedication to producing outstanding content for the New England Section meetings; Charles R. Diehl, for his diligent efforts to enhance the programming and meeting quality for the Philadelphia Section; and Ian MacSpadden, for his tireless efforts in assisting students and Sections, particularly his work on the SMPTE Discord Server setup, enabling more effective engagement with Student Chapters.

The Presidential Proclamation recognizes individuals of established and outstanding status and reputation in the motion picture and television industries worldwide. Wendy Aylsworth will be recognized for her decades of service to the production technology industry and her trailblazing work, which paved the way for women in such male-dominated fields as aerospace engineering, production engineering, and animation technology and operations. Peter Wharton will be posthumously recognized for his numerous contributions to SMPTE and the broadcast technology industry, including his passion for mentoring and creating opportunities for underrepresented groups within the industry.

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

The Journal Award for the best paper originally published in the SMPTE Motion Imaging Journal during 2022 will be presented to Michael D. Smith and Michael Zink for their paper, "Hue-Preserving Color Transforms for LED Wall Virtual Production Workflows," published in the November 2022 issue. Additionally, the Journal Certificate of Merit will be awarded to Brad Gilmer and Grant Hammond for their paper, "Workflow as a Service Delivered by the Dynamic Media Services Architecture," published in the October 2022 issue.

Fourteen new SMPTE Fellows will be recognized at this year's Gala for attaining an outstanding rank among engineers or executives in media and entertainment through their proficiency and contributions to the motion-picture, television, or related industries. These individuals are Mark Aitken, John Ellerton, Martin P. Feldman, Cristina Gomila, Frank Governale, James L. Helman, Polly Hickling, Ievgen Kostiukevych, Madeleine Noland, Peter H. Putman, Charles Q. Robinson, Chris Arley Seeger, Simon Thompson, and Kelly T. Williams.

SMPTE has opened early registration for the 2023 Media Technology Summit. The SMPTE Media Technology Summit 2023—which takes place Oct. 16-19, at the Loews Hollywood Hotel in Hollywood, CA—is the Society's annual media technology conference that brings together global industry leaders to share their latest research findings and offer solutions to industry issues while providing a space for professionals to network and learn.

Early bird pricing for this year's conference lasts from July 11 to Aug. 12. Once early bird pricing ends, those who wish to participate in the conference will pay the going rate at the time of registration. Attendees will have access to both peer-reviewed technical sessions and invited presentations and panels on the industry's most pressing issues, as well as to the Emerging Technology sessions in the Solutions Hub and all the new features of this year's conference.

[SMPTE Opens Call for Papers for 2023 Media Technology Summit]

Some of the new conference features this year include the Solutions Hub, featuring the SMPTE Spectrum, Emerging Technology Showcase, and the SMPTE Color Bar & Lounge. The Solutions Hub is the transformed exhibit hall, focused entirely on solutions-based exhibits, and includes an area dedicated to the color science of digital cinema—the SMPTE Spectrum. The SMPTE Color Bar and Lounge, sponsored by Signiant, is a casual space where attendees can share a drink with colleagues or hold an impromptu meeting.

In addition to the technical program and Emerging Technology sessions, attendees will also be able to select one of three off-site programming experiences to attend on Thursday, Oct. 19. Options will include an immersive experience, a virtual production studio, and a live broadcasting facility. Transportation will be provided.

"The 2023 Media Technology Summit is shaping up to be an exciting exploration of color and emerging technologies," said SMPTE executive director David Grindle about this year's conference. "Attendees will benefit from a wide variety of professionals who will present cutting-edge and immediately applicable information."

[Welcome to the AV Renaissance] 

Current Summit sponsors include:

• Signiant: Attendee lounge sponsor
• Dell Technologies: Registration sponsor
• The Studio at B&H: Live production sponsor
• Ai Media Technologies: Live captioning sponsor
• Riedel Communications: Wireless communication sponsor

SMPTE is partnering with the Open Services Alliance, which focuses on enabling improved open interoperability among service-based applications. This partnership is a natural extension of SMPTE's Rapid Industry Solutions Program, which aims to make the standards process more efficient, transparent, and versatile.

OSA was established in 2019 and typically identifies two to three new initiatives each year, based on relevance, and completes them in a matter of months. OSA's ability to streamline service-based applications consistently year after year is invaluable to the industry.

[SMPTE Opens Call for Papers for 2023 Media Technology Summit]

Combined with SMPTE's stellar reputation, board membership, strong admin tools, administrative, marketing, and other staff, this partnership combines the strengths of both organizations, creating a collaborative force that will change how standards are created. With SMPTE and OSA working together, the entire RIS process will be streamlined from start to finish. This means that initiating, developing, and publishing solutions as SMPTE documents will be easier than ever.

Additionally, members of both OSA and SMPTE will need to be involved with only one organization rather than two, thus making it easier for the community's members to be involved with and expand on initiatives they care about most.

A top priority for this partnership is to address Catena, an interoperability project made possible by a partnership with Ross Video. SMPTE and OSA will expand this already popular tech that promises to revolutionize multivendor interoperability in hybrid cloud environments.

[Welcome to the AV Renaissance] 

Those who wish to join the newly merged SMPTE and OSA can visit the SMPTE Member Portal. More information about the partnership and new initiatives is available by contacting one of the organizations or by participating in a special live event at the 2023 NAB Show at 3:30 p.m. local time on Sunday, April 17, at the NAB Show's Connect Inspiration Theater (W3421).

"We are very excited and pleased with the fortuitous timing of this partnership just before our industry comes together for the 100th NAB Show. Combining the strengths of these two organizations promises to simplify and accelerate development of cloud and microservice related standardization, so dearly needed by our industry," explained Chris Lennon, executive director of the OSA.

SMPTE is seeking technical papers for the SMPTE 2023 Media Technology Summit, Oct. 16-19, at the Loews Hollywood Hotel in Hollywood, CA. SMPTE is also accepting proposals for its popular SMPTE Storytellers series.

"SMPTE Media Technology Summit is a platform for opening up new dialogues and exchanging thoughts on the latest technologies and technical standards in the media and entertainment industry," says Iris Wu, Co-Chair of the 2023 Media Technology Summit. "By participating in or submitting your technical paper, you can help define the technical foundations of the industry. We invite you to join us and geek out together."

[Matrox Technology Was Used to Launch New SMPTE Software—Here's Why]

Selected authors will have the opportunity to present at the peer-reviewed forum for the exploration of media and entertainment technology. In addition, these manuscripts will be automatically submitted to the SMPTE Motion Imaging Journal and will undergo a separate peer-review process for publication.

This year's Media Technology Summit will aim to present all the latest innovative processes, tools, workflows, interoperability solutions, standards—and many other new and exciting initiatives happening in the industry—that help us ensure uncompromising quality for the seamless creation, management, and delivery of media. Original, previously unpublished manuscripts that meet the above goals will be peer-reviewed when submitted as an abstract. The required length of the abstract is between 300-400 words.

[Sustainability in Pro AV] 

Applicants have until May 30 to submit their abstract. Topics include, but are not limited to:

• 5G
• AI and Machine Learning
• Audio
• Blockchain
• Color science
• Cloud media
• Communication, networking, and broadcast technologies
• Compression

Previously published, product-specific, commercial, sales, or promotional papers will not be considered. Student papers are strongly encouraged.

To submit an abstract and see a list of requirements, topics, and deadlines, visit www.smpte.org/summit-call-for-papers.

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

SMPTE Storytellers are brief presentations given by members of the SMPTE community during the conference. This year's theme is "Voices of the Community." Speakers have around 15 minutes to provide a presentation that is more personal than technical. In the spirit of inclusivity, these stories are meant to be motivational, inspiring, compelling, personal, visionary, or all of the above. SMPTE Storytellers' stories provide an opportunity for members of the community to express topics that are important to them. Selected storytellers will be provided with speaking guidance and support.

To submit a short summary for consideration as a SMPTE Storyteller, send your name, job title, and up to 500 words on the main points of your story to education@smpte.org.

The Society of Motion Picture and Television Engineers (SMPTE) president Renard T. Jenkins will serve as the keynote speaker for the inaugural Public Media Technology Summit (PMTS) preceding the 2023 NAB Show and for the 2023 NAB Show's Broadcast Engineering and IT (BEIT) Conference during its opening session. Jenkins is senior vice president of production integration and creative technology services at Warner Bros. Discovery.

Slated for April 13-14, 2023, at the Renaissance Las Vegas Hotel, the PMTS will include sessions on RF, IT, and general technology practice and management— particularly as they intersect with ATSC 3.0/NextGen TV, IP-based facilities, cloud-based production, and the related business and service opportunities that support public media's unique mission. Jenkins, who served as vice president of operations, engineering and distribution at PBS prior to joining Warner Bros. Discovery, will present his keynote address on the first day of the summit. While at PBS, Jenkins founded the organization's Advanced Format Center and was responsible for the strategic direction, technology development, engineering, and operational management of PBS' entire media supply chain.

[NAB Show Expects Big Gains in 2023]

Part of the NAB Show, the BEIT Conference will focus on content delivery ecosystems and infrastructures through presentations and in-depth discussions. Jenkins will speak during the BEIT Conference Opening Session, scheduled for 10-11 a.m. MT on Saturday, April 15, in the Las Vegas Convention Center's West Hall (W219-W221). The session also will include the official BEIT Conference welcome and the presentation of the NAB Best Paper Award.

[Meet the SMPTE 2023 Leadership]

Jenkins and his teams have earned numerous awards, including two Emmy Awards, an Innovator of the Year Award, and a 2020 Broadcasting and Cable Technology Leadership Award, for their work in film and television production, postproduction, and research and development. He is a SMPTE Fellow and a board member for MovieLabs, the Hollywood Professional Association, the UltraHD Forum, and the Content and Entertainment Council as well as a member of the Microsoft and Oracle advisory boards.

A champion and advocate for inclusion, diversity, equity, and accessibility in the technology and media industries, Jenkins is a strategic advisor to the board of directors of the Washington, DC, chapter of the National Association for Multi-Ethnicity in Communications, chair of the Warner Bros. Discovery Technology and Operations Equity and Inclusion Council, chair of the SMPTE Global Inclusion Working Group, and co-chair of HPA ALL, which advocates for and promotes diversity, better equity, and increased inclusion and accessibility in the media and entertainment industry.

The first annual Silicon Valley Video Summit (SVVS), has been announced for Jan. 26 at the Computer History Museum in Mountain View, CA. This inaugural industry event will offer a vital exchange of Broadcast and Big Tech thought leadership right in the heart of Silicon Valley. 

Registration is now open and is free of charge to qualified video and broadcast production professionals, and event sponsors.  Students will be admitted at 3pm for the program and networking.  To apply visit: https://siliconvalley.video/register/.

SVVS is produced by SVG in partnership with the SMPTE SF Chapter, and FMC Training. ASG and B&H are title sponsors of the event, which will reach broadcast and video engineers, producers and technologists working in corporate video production. 

[SCN Top 50 Systems Integrators 2022] 

Program chair is Peter Thordarson, former chief production engineer, Microsoft Studios. Confirmed speakers include executives from Electronic Arts, Google, Intel, Meta, Microsoft, NVIDIA and more.  Conference sessions include:

• Strategies for Multisite Enterprise Production
• Advancements in SMPTE 2110 for Corporate Applications
• “Digital First” Transforms Live Event Production and Technology
• How to Manage a Remote Video Production Workforce
• Get Ready for the New, Advanced Video Production Workflows
• AI & Video Production
• Virtual Production in the Real World
• Creating Content for the Metaverse

SVVS will also feature tours of leading, local production facilities as well as an exhibit hall that currently includes over 15 key technology providers. Future Media Concepts (FMC) will be providing Adobe for Post-Production training on-site. Industry networking will take place during the event’s complimentary lunch and reception.

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

For a full conference agenda and more information about this year’s event visit www.siliconvalley.video. 

SMPTE has appointed Michele Wright as director of business development and outreach. Wright will lead the Society's marketing and sales teams and partner with SMPTE staff and volunteers to guide multiplatform marketing and outreach to new and diverse members and partners.

"With advanced degrees in both engineering and public policy, and a record of transformational leadership in diverse roles and environments, Michele comes to this SMPTE role ready to partner with colleagues in realizing meaningful change and growth for the Society," said SMPTE executive director David Grindle. "She has a unique ability to share and communicate a vision for change, and then to foster and guide a practical approach to implementation and administration—all aimed at improving operations and contributing to organizational growth and scaling. I am so pleased to welcome her to SMPTE."

[Meet the SMPTE 2023 Leadership]

Wright is a multidimensional senior executive with experience in pharmaceutical/biotechnology sales, healthcare administration, and business development for Fortune 100 companies and an international non-profit organization. She is the recipient of numerous accolades and awards for her work as an advocate for health equity, as an author and creator of social-emotional and STEM-focused content and edutainment platforms for elementary students, and as a business and organizational leader.

A native of Tuskegee, Alabama, Wright is the 2022 USA TODAY Woman of the Year for Arkansas and a 2022-2023 AARP Purpose Prize Fellow. She and her husband, Terry Wright, made history in 2022 as the first people of color to be honored by the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation (CFF) with the organization's top honor, the Breath of Life Award, and to be named CF Ambassadors. She is the recipient of the Nations of Women Change Makers 2021 Global Leadership Award and a nominee of the EveryLife Foundation of Rare Diseases' RareVoice 2021 Award for Diversity Empowerment.

[SMPTE Announces 2022 Honorees]

"I am beyond ecstatic to step into my new and adventurous role as SMPTE's director of business development and outreach," said Wright. "It is an ideal fit in merging my extensive background in STEM, administration, sales, marketing, and community outreach to help develop and expand SMPTE's membership growth, business opportunities, and global profile to diverse new dimensions. As such, I am fully committed and excited to build positive and sustainable relationships with members, partners, and the industry as a whole.

"I was drawn to this role because it affords me an invaluable opportunity to work for the global gold standard society of media professionals, technologists, and engineers," continued Wright. "I am also thrilled to report to a forward-thinking change agent like SMPTE's new executive director, David Grindle, and to work synergistically with my technically brilliant team. I also look forward to collaborating with SMPTE's staff, officers, and board of governors, alongside its first newly elected African American president, Renard T. Jenkins, to build from SMPTE's past and to plan and enhance our future."

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

SMPTE announced the results of the 2022 Society Elections and introduced the board officers and regional governors who will begin serving terms in January 2023. This leadership group will continue SMPTE's work to enable interoperability across media workflows, reimagine how professionals access engineering documents and articles, and guide the Society in providing ongoing value and service to the industry.

SMPTE Officers
Renard T. Jenkins of Warner Bros. Discovery has been elected SMPTE president, Richard Welsh of Deluxe Media Inc. as SMPTE executive vice president, Michael Zink of Warner Bros. Discovery as SMPTE education vice president, and Lisa Hobbs of MediaKind as SMPTE secretary/treasurer, all for two-year terms. They join 2022-23 officers Hans Hoffmann (past president), Sally Hattori (standards vice president), Paul Stechly (finance vice president), and Rose Lockwood (membership vice president).

[Matrox Technology Was Used to Launch New SMPTE Software—Here's Why]

"I am honored to be elected as the next SMPTE president," said Jenkins, who will be the first African American to serve in the SMPTE president role. "I look forward to respecting the Society's past while working with my colleagues to build a sustainable future. As we focus on cutting-edge technology, innovative tools, and diverse perspectives and ideas, we will create a forward-leaning organization to increase participation and our influence throughout the media and entertainment space. By partnering with our peers across the technology and standards sectors and being inclusive of all groups through all of our global offerings, we are laying the foundation for a more collaborative future. All these elements are essential if the Society is to continue to thrive, remain relevant, and provide a welcoming and supportive environment for professionals and students across our industry."

New SMPTE Regional Governors 

• Asia-Pacific Region Tony Ngai, Society of Motion Imaging Ltd.
• Canada Region François Bourdua, VS-Tek, Strategies & Technologies
• Europe, Middle East, Africa, and Central South American Region Fernando Bittencourt, FB Consultant
• United Kingdom Region Chris Johns, Sky UK
• U.S.-Eastern Region: Dover Mundt, Riedel Communications
• U.S.-Central Region: William T. Hayes, Iowa Public Television
• U.S.-Hollywood Region: Eric Gsell, Dolby Laboratories Marty Meyer, PRG Los Angeles
• U.S.-New York Region: Thomas Mauro, Media Consultant
• U.S.-Western Region: Jeffrey F. Way, Panasas

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

"We have work to do as a Society and as an industry, and the SMPTE leadership team is up to the challenge," said SMPTE executive director David Grindle. "The dedication, energy, and intelligence of this group reflect the interest and passion of the larger SMPTE membership, and I am excited about the work we'll do together as we continue to move the Society forward."

SMPTE will honor industry luminaries and next-generation leaders at the SMPTE Awards Gala, which takes place during the SMPTE Media Technology Summit (The Summit), the Society's first in-person conference since 2019. The Summit will wrap up with a gala and afterparty on Thursday, Oct. 27, back at its former venue—the Loews Hollywood Hotel in Hollywood, California. SMPTE Fellow elevations will be conferred at the SMPTE 2022 Fellows Luncheon on Tuesday, Oct. 25.

"I was drawn to SMPTE because of the importance of serving engineers, scientists, and artists—the people who make things happen without getting much recognition," said David Grindle, SMPTE's executive director. "Bringing their achievements to the forefront through our awards program gives them the recognition they so deeply deserve. I look forward to meeting many of them in person at this year's Gala."

This year's Gala will be hosted by 2021 Louis F. Wolf Jr. Memorial Scholarship Award recipient, musician, producer, and educational television host Monica Brighton. Brighton has a strong passion for technology, children's media, and education. She is currently the host and producer of "That TVOkids Show" on TVOKids, as well as host of "Backyard Beats," an award-winning educational music series.

[SMPTE Introduces 2022 Board Officers, Regional Governors, Governors-at-Large]

This year, 17 honors will be bestowed upon 38 individuals and organizations. Among these is the supreme accolade of the Society, Honorary Membership, which recognizes individuals who have performed eminent service in the advancement of engineering in motion pictures, television, or in the allied arts and sciences. This honor has been conferred on such industry luminaries as Thomas Edison, George Eastman, Samuel L. Warner, David Sarnoff, Walt Disney, Ray Dolby, George Lucas, Richard Edlund, James Cameron, and Peter Jackson. This year, Honorary Membership will be conferred on two individuals: Ang Lee and Charles H. Jablonski.

Ang Lee will be recognized for his extensive pioneering innovation in deployment of new technologies to enhance theatrical storytelling. In particular, Lee's use of advanced technologies such as 3D and higher frame rates in the films "Life of Pi," "Billy Lynn's Long Halftime Walk," and "Gemini Man," exemplify his creative use of new technologies to effectively draw viewers further into the story and the characters' emotional states.

Charles H. Jablonski will be recognized for his decades of pushing innovation in entertainment production and distribution, as well as his service to the education and mentorship of young entertainment engineers. He has played key roles in establishing the use of new technologies at the Olympics, in transitioning television operations and transmission from analog to digital processes, and in working with start-ups to advance and enhance the quality of content for the consumer experience.

[5 Takeaways from the AV/IT Summit 2022] 

The Progress Medal is the Society's most prestigious medal award. It was established in 1935 and recognizes outstanding technical contributions to the progress of engineering phases of the motion imaging industries. This year, the Society will recognize Touradj Ebrahimi for his leadership of the JPEG committee, as well as his recent work on exploring standardization opportunities in the areas of learning-based image coding (JPEG AI), NFTs, secure annotation of media modifications (Fake Media), and the use of DNA molecules for image storage.

The Samuel L. Warner Memorial Medal, established in 1946 and sponsored by Warner Bros., recognizes outstanding contributions in the design and development of new and improved methods and/or apparatus for motion picture sound. John Meyer, co-founder of Meyer Sound, will be presented with this award in recognition of his contributions to the design, measurement, and analysis of cinema speaker electronics for cinema mixing, review, and exhibition facilities.

Established in 1950 and sponsored by SRI International, the David Sarnoff Medal recognizes outstanding contributions to the development of new techniques or equipment that have improved the engineering phases of television technology. This year, Madeleine Noland will be honored for her significant contributions to the ongoing development and implementation of the ATSC 3.0 standard within the United States and internationally.

Sponsored this year by Technicolor Creative Studios, the Natalie M. and Herbert T. Kalmus Medal, which was established in 1955 and renamed in 2020, recognizes outstanding contributions that reflect a commitment to the highest standards of quality and innovation in motion picture post-production and distribution services. Patrick Renner will be honored this year for his vision, actualization, and continued refinement of on-set color management and color grading tools, as embodied in the Pomfort Livegrade software platform.

The James A. Lindner Archival Technology Medal, established in 2012 and sponsored by James A. Lindner, recognizes significant technical advancements or contributions related to the archive or preservation of media content essence. This year, the Society will honor Barbara Flueckiger for her outstanding research focused on the digitization and restoration of archival color films.

The Workflow Systems Medal, established in 2012 and sponsored by Leon D. Silverman, recognizes outstanding contributions related to the development and integration of workflows that enhance creativity, collaboration, efficiency or novel approaches to the production, post-production, or distribution process. This year, SMPTE will recognize the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences' Science and Technology Council for the significant creative and technical impact of the Academy Color Encoding System (ACES), which enables consistent, high-quality color management across complex, collaborative, end-to-end workflows.

The Camera Origination and Imaging Medal, established in 2012, recognizes significant technical achievements related to invention or advances in imaging technology. Michael Cieslinski will be honored this year for his pioneering work in image and camera design, which has led to the development of a family of high dynamic range electronic cinematography cameras that have the ability to create images with the look of 35mm film.

[SCN Hall of Fame 2022] 

The Digital Processing Medal, established in 2012, recognizes significant technical achievements related to the development of digital processing of content for motion picture, television, games, or other related media. The Society will recognize Didier LeGall—visionary, pioneer, and expert—in honor of his contributions to image and video compression.

Established in 2016 and sponsored by William C. Miller and Ellen Sontag-Miller, the Excellence in Education Medal recognizes outstanding contributions to new or unique educational programs that teach the technologies of the motion sciences, and those who advance the educational process through innovative and inspirational methods. This year, SMPTE honors Carrie Wootten for her outstanding efforts to promote and foster careers within the broadcast technology industry through her work with universities and accrediting bodies, and the establishment of the Rise Up Academy.

In addition to the medal awards, the Society will confer several other honors during the Awards Gala.

The Journal Award for the best paper originally published in the SMPTE Motion Imaging Journal during 2021 will be awarded to Thomas G. Edwards and Michael D. Smith for their paper, "High Throughput JPEG 2000 for Broadcast and IP-Based Applications." In addition, Journal Certificates of Merit will be awarded to Richard Welsh for the paper "Cloud Production Pipeline Using IMF, C4ID, and Open TimeLine IO" and to Michael D. Smith and Michael Zink for the paper "On the Calculation and Usage of HDR Static Content Metadata." Smith is the first author to receive both the Journal Award and the Journal Certificate of Merit in the same year.

Four individuals will be honored with the Presidential Proclamation, which recognizes individuals of established and outstanding status and reputation in the motion picture and television industries worldwide: Mitchell Baker, chief executive officer, Mozilla Corporation, and chairwoman, Mozilla Foundation; Toshiyuki Ogura, distinguished engineer, Sony Corporation; Dan Sasaki, optical engineer, Panavision; and Dave Schnuelle, vice president, technology, Dolby Laboratories.

The Excellence in Standards Award, recognizing those who have been actively involved in advancing Society standards activities and processes, will be presented to Alan Lambshead, SMPTE Standards vice president, 2014-2018.

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

Five individuals will receive the Citation for Outstanding Service to the Society, recognizing dedicated service to SMPTE: Peter Armstrong, Toronto Section; Paul Broderick, Australia, New Zealand, and Southern Pacific Islands Section; Jeff Cohen, New York Section; Daniel Despa, Montreal/Quebec Section; and Robert (Bob) E. Lamm, New England Section.

The Louis F. Wolf Jr. Memorial Scholarship is designed to assist students in furthering their undergraduate or graduate studies in motion pictures and television, with an emphasis on technology. The 2022 scholarship will be awarded to SMPTE Student Member Summer E. Lange of Cedarville University.

Twelve new SMPTE Fellows will also be recognized during the Annual Awards Gala. This honor is conferred on individuals who have, through their proficiency and contributions to the motion-picture, television, or related industries, attained an outstanding rank among engineers or executives in media and entertainment.

The Alliance for IP Media Solutions (AIMS) welcomed ASTRODESIGN, AVPro Edge, and Sencore as the latest AIMS members. The three companies join AIMS as adoption of SMPTE ST 2110 continues to accelerate in the broadcast market and as the alliance's Internet Protocol Media Experience (IPMX) set of open standards and specifications gains momentum in the Pro AV industry.

"It's exciting to see ASTRODESIGN, AVPro Edge, and Sencore become AIMS members, as growing involvement in the alliance reflects the momentum of IP adoption across both the broadcast and Pro AV industries," said Andrew Starks, AIMS marketing work group chair. "We're pleased to welcome our newest members and value their commitment to supporting and simplifying the migration to standards-based IP media workflows."

AIMS facilitates close cooperation between its members and leading standards bodies to ensure that the business and technical needs of broadcasters and AV professionals are met. In doing so, the alliance drives a comprehensive, ubiquitous set of IP standards that eliminate fragmentation and maximize interoperability.

ASTRODESIGN specializes in real-time, high-speed digital signal processing technology, and the company has developed several 8K devices. 

"ASTRODESIGN is a manufacturer with long experience in designing and developing video equipment, and we are now working hard to add more AV-over-IP products to our roadmap," said Manabe Yoshihito, executive general manager of the business division at ASTRODESIGN. "IPMX is an open standard, and we believe it is an innovative solution that will lead the future."

AVPro Edge specializes in full-bandwidth audio-video distribution. Working with HDMI, HDBaseT, and HDCP, the company develops uniquely engineered solutions for today's integrators. 

"AVPro Edge has always put an emphasis on pushing technology into tomorrow, by partnering with AIMS we are doing just that, working with others in our industry to converge the worlds of IT and AV. Our expanding lineup of AV-over-IP products has been a huge success for us, and we want to ensure our lineup follows the agreed-upon standards for this type of technology," said Jeff Murray, president, and CEO of AVPro Edge.

Sencore is an innovator in the development of reliable, cost-effective signal transmission and content monitoring solutions for the broadcast, cable, satellite, and IPTV markets.

"Being a part of the AIMS Alliance is important to Sencore as we drive forward with SMPTE ST 2110, NMOS, IPMX, and other IP technologies," said Aaron Doughten, senior product manager at Sencore. "It's vital that we participate in the industry group that is promoting these standards to drive what we like to call 'competitive collaboration' in our industry."

Recently, I decided to recycle my old laptops—you know, the ones preloaded with Windows 7 and Windows Vista. When it was time to remove the hard drives, I went straight for my Extron tweaker. Of course, my tweaker is probably older than those laptops; it reads Extron Electronics.

My father was an auto mechanics teacher. One lesson he drilled into my head was having the right tool for the job. He loved his Extron tweakers, which I collected for him at various InfoComm shows. Yes, he had more than one, strategically positioned around the house and in the garage.  

[The Big Quit Will Be…Televised on TikTok?]

Trade shows are back—and while they may not hit record numbers in terms of attendees or exhibitors in the near future, it’s definitely cause to celebrate. With trade shows comes the promise of new business opportunities and, of course, stuff we all get, also known as SWAG. While items like RGB Spectrum collectible coins may be in short supply, I predict hand sanitizer will remain a bountiful SWAG staple for years (and with good reason). I’d also bank on promotional bags, because attendees always seem to accumulate printed materials, purchases, samples, and other SWAG on the show floor.

Do people actually use SWAG? Based on a sample size of one, I’d say yes. For example, I only recently retired a Contemporary Research baseball cap that was given to me more than 15 years ago during an InfoComm golf tournament. It has been replaced by a hat from Advanced Systems Group, the company of SCN columnist Dave Van Hoy. (Thanks, Dave.)

[Cloud Power: Cloud or On-Prem?]

Recently, I got caught in a rainstorm on my way to a restaurant. Good thing I keep my trusty Network Electronics (the company is Nevion these days) umbrella in my car. Speaking of my car, currently one of my most useful pieces of SWAG is a car vent phone holder, courtesy of TVU Networks. My car was built a couple of years too early for the whole Apple Car Play/Android Auto interface, so this handy little gizmo gives me a clear view of Waze when I’m on the road. 

Over the years, more than one Grass Valley pen has been used to write notes in my reporter’s notebook. And I’m not sure I’ve ever actually purchased a USB flash drive. Black Box provided my current tool for local transfer between computers, but I have others from Arista, JVC, and Matrox—and those are just the ones within reach.

I remember one NAB where I got so much SWAG that I literally handed it out to my college students. T-shirts, pens, key rings, stress balls—college students like free stuff even more than you or I do. In retrospect, I probably shouldn’t have given that one kid the pocketknife. Also in retrospect, Wohler was giving away pocketknives! How cool is that?

So, yes, I’d say SWAG is still a fun way to make an impression with potential customers. Plus, you never know when some writer for a popular industry media outlet will name drop your company. Now, if you’ll excuse me, I think I’ll have some hot chocolate in my SMPTE mug while cleaning my phone screen with my Kramer microfiber cleaning cloth as I store various items in my Yamaha Installation Series shoulder bag. Later, I might measure something with my Premier Mounts tape measure as I listen to music with my NetApp earbuds as I take notes in my AMX portfolio.

SMPTE has announced that David Grindle will serve as the society's next executive director. He will formally join SMPTE in July after concluding a 12-year tenure as executive director of the United States Institute for Theatre Technology, an association dedicated to performing arts and entertainment professionals.

"David encompasses for SMPTE the leadership attributes we need to move the global organization into its second century with long-term, sustainable programs," said SMPTE president Hans Hoffmann. "He has broad experience in nonprofit organizations and working with board structures like we have, and I look forward to developing—together with the board and him and the home office staff—the strategies for the future growth of the society."

Grindle is a Certified Association Executive and proven leader in the nonprofit field, with a background in opera, theater, and academia. He has a strong record of success across fundraising, establishing fiscal diversity, and developing creative ideas for programmatic growth, and he has experience guiding a board—from operations to governance—while maintaining engagement with the organization's membership and connection with its volunteer spirit.

[SMPTE Opens Call for Papers for 2022 Media Technology Summit]

In addition to his experience in nonprofit leadership, Grindle is a Fulbright specialist with the U.S. State Department and an honorary member of the African Theatre Association. He has served on advisory boards for multiple convention bureaus, spoken at entertainment industry events around the world, and earned a Distinguished Achievement Award from the Berry College Alumni Association.

"I am honored and excited to be appointed SMPTE's next executive director," said Grindle. "Building on the storied history of the society and working with the members and staff, I am confident that we can position SMPTE for current and future service to a rapidly developing industry. The opportunities to connect people in the global media community are boundless, and one of my goals as executive director is to help SMPTE become the bridge that connects people to this industry and the industry to its own future. There is so much positive energy and momentum here already, and I look forward to meeting our members and hearing what they need and want so that we can work to continue delivering relevant and meaningful services for SMPTE members at all stages in their career path."

SMPTE, the home of media professionals, technologists, and engineers, introduced the board officers, regional governors, and governors-at-large serving terms on the SMPTE Board of Governors in 2022, as well as the standards, education, and membership directors appointed to serve in 2022. This leadership group will welcome SMPTE’s next executive director, continue to reimagine how professionals access engineering documents and articles, and guide the Society in providing ongoing value and service to the industry.

"It’s exciting to see the Society's leadership evolving to better reflect and represent SMPTE’s membership and the greater motion-imaging and media community,” said SMPTE President Hans Hoffmann. “Addressing the interests and needs of this diverse community is an important part of keeping SMPTE a relevant and valuable entity in supporting the industry. The Society’s 2022 SMPTE Board of Governors brings fresh perspectives to our work in empowering the industry to overcome creative and technical challenges and to build new innovations together.”

[Convert Digital Cinema Cameras into SMPTE Studio Cameras for Multi-camera Productions]

New SMPTE officers

Renard Jenkins, senior vice president, production integration and creative technology services at Warner Bros./WarnerMedia, has been appointed SMPTE executive vice president. Jenkins is splitting the 2021-22 term with Patricia Keighley of IMAX following one year as executive vice president. Rose Lockwood, global account director at Belden, has been appointed SMPTE membership vice president for the 2022-23 term and will succeed Jenkins, who was the former membership vice president.

[SMPTE Opens Call for Papers for 2022 Media Technology Summit]

“As we move into 2022, we’ll continue to look at the Society as a whole and our strategy for keeping SMPTE relevant as the technology and industry continues to change at breakneck speed,” said Jenkins. “Being the first African American in the SMPTE EVP role, I’m eager to continue the work of casting a wider net with my SMPTE colleagues to make the Society a truly more inclusive environment where everyone feels welcome.”

SMPTE also welcomes Florian Schleich, senior software engineer, media systems, at Netflix, elected as SMPTE standards vice president, and congratulates Paul Stechly, president at Applied Electronics, in his reelection to the office of SMPTE finance vice president. Both will be serving 2022-23 terms. They join 2021-22 officers Hans Hoffmann (president), Patrick Griffis (past president), John Ferder (secretary/treasurer), and Michael Zink (education vice president).

New SMPTE regional governors

For the 2022-23 term, the Society has elected eight regional governors.

• Asia-Pacific Region: Michael Day, project management lead for Professional Media at Telstra Australia
• Canada Region: Troy English, CTO and senior vice president of product development at Ross Video Group
• Europe, Middle East, Africa, and Central South American Region: Dagmar Driesnack, solution manager at Rohde & Schwarz
• U.S.-Eastern Region: David Long, director/associate professor at Rochester Institute of Technology
• U.S.-Hollywood Region: Kylee Peña, manager of creative technologies program management at Netflix
• U.S.-New York Region: Jeff Cohen, director of sales at Domo Broadcast Systems; Thomas Mauro, freelance media consultant
• U.S.-Southern Region: Frank Torbert, director of technology at WKMG-Graham Media Group
• U.S.-Western Region: Chris Lennon, office of the CTO: director of standards strategy at Ross Video Group 

Governors-at-large

For the 2022 term, the SMPTE Board has appointed four governors-at-large.

• Chaitanya Chinchlikar, vice president and business head, chief technology officer and head of emerging media at Whistling Woods International
• Eric Gsell, staff engineer at Dolby Laboratories
•  Jim Helman, chief technology officer at MovieLabs
•  Rich Welsh, senior vice president of Innovation at Deluxe

SMPTE education, membership, and standards directors

The SMPTE leadership team includes a total of 15 directors for 2022: SMPTE education directors Polly Hickling, Peter Ludé, Liz Pieri, Jaclyn Pytlarz, and Iris Wu; SMPTE membership directors Zandra Clarke, Sally Hubbard, Chris Lapp, Ian MacSpadden, and John Shike; and SMPTE standards directors Dean Bullock, Bruce Devlin, Sally Hattori, Thomas Kernen, and Pierre-Anthony Lemiuex.

The Audio Engineering Society (AES), Alliance for IP Media Solutions (AIMS), Advanced Media Workflow Association (AMWA), European Broadcasting Union (EBU), SMPTE, and the Video Services Forum (VSF) today announced the IP Showcase will return live and in person at the 2022 NAB Show, April 23-27 in Las Vegas, at Booth W3925.

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

The IP Showcase is committed to educating attendees at major industry events on the business and creative potential of IP media solutions. At the 2022 NAB Show, IP Showcase will continue to address market requirements as media operations move toward all-IP connectivity and content delivery to multiscreen platforms. Attendees can learn how the evolving SMPTE ST 2110 standards and AMWA NMOS technology stack are improving media workflows for large and small deployments alike.

[SCN Top 50 Systems Integrators 2021]

Because the transport layer for media-over-IP is well established and IP Showcase can now focus on easing deployments for end users, attendees will also find various resources designed to facilitate a smooth migration to IP. Simple. Scalable. Proven. The IP Showcase booth will include both technical presentations and demonstrations that serve as useful examples to media organizations making this critical shift. As always, the popular event will also highlight the great strides the industry has made in achieving an all-IP ecosystem for today's real-world media productions.

The following statement was released on March 15, 2022:

We the members of the SMPTE Board of Governors, issue this resolution condemning the unprovoked invasion by Russia of the sovereign country of Ukraine, the slaughter of innocent Ukrainian citizens, the destruction of Ukrainian infrastructure, and the suppression of individual rights of Russian citizens to speak and associate freely. We support and defend the individual human rights of our members in Russia and Ukraine as well as those of all our members. We call on the government of Russia to immediately cease its invasion, withdraw all its troops from Ukrainian territory, and restore the rights of Ukrainian and Russian citizens.

We call on our partner associations in the television, motion picture, social media, and related industries to join us in our resolve against the actions of the Russian government.

Therefore, we, the members of the SMPTE Board of Governors are suspending the activities of the SMPTE Russian Section and its members' individual participation in the SMPTE Board of Governors until further notice.

ABOUT SMPTE: SMPTE is the global society of media professionals, technologists, and engineers working in the digital entertainment industry. The Society fosters a diverse and engaged membership from both the technology and creative communities, delivering vast educational offerings, technical conferences, and exhibitions, the SMPTE Motion Imaging Journal, and access to a rich network of colleagues essential to their career success. As an internationally recognized standards organization, SMPTE also provides a vital technical framework of engineering standards and guidelines that allow the seamless creation, management, and delivery of media for art, entertainment, and education worldwide.

SMPTE, the home of media professionals, technologists, and engineers, today announced its call for technical paper proposals for its annual conference, rebranded as the SMPTE Media Technology Summit 2022, Oct. 24-27, at the Loews Hollywood Hotel in Los Angeles. SMPTE will also accept proposals for participation in the conference’s popular SMPTE Storytellers series. 

[SCN 2022 Stellar Service Awards Now Open for Entries]

“As we return to face-to-face conferences, the SMPTE Media Technology Summit 2022 will no doubt be prominent on the calendars of professionals, technologists, and engineers,” said Polly Hickling, education director at SMPTE and course leader, media technology at Solent University. “There have been great advancements in technology during a time where we have had limited opportunity to discuss what we've been doing, so this opportunity to discuss cutting-edge research, insight, and technology will be welcomed by many. The SMPTE Summit is an exciting chance to connect with everything they love about the technology and the people shaping our industry.” 

[SMPTE Wins Emmy for IP-Based Media Transport]

Authors of proposals selected by the SMPTE Summit 2022 program committee will have the opportunity to present at the world’s premier forum for the exploration of current and future media technology, content creation, image and sound, and the allied arts and sciences. Proposed papers must be informational and must address technical theory, research, innovation, application, or practice specific to any of the evolving technologies associated with the media and entertainment industry. 

Paper proposals are due April 30. General topic areas include:

·       Digital cinema and advancements;

·       Streaming, artificial intelligence in content creation, media in the cloud, image related computing, media supply chain, research, and academic work;

·       Remote production;

·       Broadcast advancements;

·       Sustainability topics;

·       Technical leadership and industry change;

·       Future of media;

·       Esports and gaming;

·       And others.

Previously published, product-specific, commercial, sales, or promotional papers will not be considered. Student papers are strongly encouraged.

To submit a paper proposal, visit https://summit.smpte.org/summit2022/call_for_papers.

SMPTE Storytellers are short personal stories that highlight the more human side of the SMPTE community. Ideally, these stories are motivational, inspiring, compelling, personal, visionary, or some combination of these. Anyone interested in becoming a SMPTE Storyteller at the SMPTE Summit 2022 should send their name, job title, and 1,000 words or fewer about the main points of their story to education@smpte.org by May 15.

Planar, a global leader in visualization technology,  and sister company OptiTrack, a worldwide leader in 3D tracking systems, have joined other industry leaders and SMPTE, the home of media professionals, technologists and engineers, to form The Advisory Group of the On-Set Virtual Production (OSVP) Initiative. This initiative is the first project within the society’s new Rapid Industry Solution (RIS) program.

SMPTE’s commitment to providing tools, standards and education on emerging technologies requires the society to operate with greater agility in responding to technology challenges. Planar and OptiTrack are proud to take part in SMPTE’s new initiative for the RIS program, which is focused on creating a portfolio of essential tools that can help the industry tackle the complexities of OSVP, including the development and curation of knowledge resources.

The companies’ participation follows the launch of Planar Studios in June of 2021. The initiative combines the advanced technologies, industry partnerships and personnel customers require to create realistic in-screen content for today’s ever-expanding virtual production (VP) and extended reality (XR) applications.

Virtual Production and Extended Reality Applications

The companies’ participation follows the launch of Planar Studios in June of 2021. The initiative combines the advanced technologies, industry partnerships and personnel customers require to create realistic in-screen content for today’s ever-expanding virtual production (VP) and extended reality (XR) applications.

“The success of the On-Set Virtual Production Initiative hinges upon the expertise and support of a wide range of technology and thought leaders,” explained Hans Hoffmann, SMPTE president and head of media fundamentals and production at the EBU. “For this reason, SMPTE has established an Advisory Group drawing from emerging technology companies, traditional production users, manufacturers, educational institutions and professional organizations. We are so thankful to have the best minds in the industry to assess the challenges, establish our goals and deliver a fast-track response,” Hoffman continued.

The key goal of the RIS OSVP Advisory Group is to establish interoperability, training, workflows, best practices and a unifying common language to smooth collaboration, building on whichever formats the creative industry chooses to leverage. SMPTE underwent in-depth discussions with groups and individuals in all aspects of the OSVP pipeline to uncover several hurdles that are currently preventing many from deploying these new content creation technologies.

[ Planar Launches Planar Studios Virtual Production Initiative ]

[ Planar Expands Portfolio of Fine-Pitch LED Displays with Planar MGP Series ]

[ SMPTE Wins Emmy for IP-Based Media Transport ]

Planar and OptiTrack’s participation in the Advisory Group allows both companies to have a voice at the table, helping review, recommend and guide the outputs from the group. As global industry leaders bringing decades of unmatched on-camera video wall display and optical tracking technology expertise, Planar and OptiTrack are well positioned to contribute to the two main goals of the initiative: enabling systems interoperability and training at all levels.

“Planar and OptiTrack are excited to be building a framework for the On-Set Virtual Production Initiative with SMPTE,” said executive vice president Adam Schmidt. “LED video walls and motion capture technology represent key components of today’s virtual studios and together, Planar and OptiTrack bring more than 60 years of experience delivering best-in-class display and optical tracking technologies. We look forward to collaborating with this impressive group of industry leaders and seeing what we can help establish to support future VP applications.”

Planar and OptiTrack will also work with SMPTE to produce training at all levels, building on SMPTE’s longstanding expertise in technical education. The companies will help develop unique offerings for general education, professional development, technology training and business planning and scheduling, with emphasis on applicability to the real world, drawing on Planar’s established leadership in LED video wall technology and on-camera broadcast studio installations as well as OptiTrack’s position as the largest motion capture provider in the world.

The entertainment professionals at Digital Cinema Collective say they create exceptional productions with a smile. Those smiles have broadened since adding SilverBack-V fiber camera adapters from MultiDyne Video & Fiber Optic Solutions to its live production model.

The creative professionals responsible for diverse productions such as the Democratic National Convention Digital Production and ABC holiday specials have utilized several MultiDyne SilverBack models, and simplified how they bring digital cinema cameras into broadcast TV productions.

“We specialize in multi-camera TV shows that capture a cinematic feel,” said Aaron Cooke, CEO, Digital Cinema Collective (DCC). “That means using digital cinema cameras from Sony, ARRI, Panasonic and others with a variety of cinema lensing to enhance any broadcast production with a film aesthetic. The SilverBack systems help us incorporate these cameras into the broadcast workflow, which has not historically been easy to accomplish.”

The SilverBack-V and SilverBack-4K5 both convert digital cinema cameras into SMPTE studio cameras for live multi-camera productions. Adaptable to any digital cinema or broadcast camera, both systems multiplex video, audio and data signals for multi-camera 4K/UHD productions onto a single tactical or SMPTE hybrid fiber cable—with robust connectivity and remote powering.

[ MultiDyne Expands SilverBack Fiber Camera Adapter Series ]

James Coker, Technical Engineer, who has used the SilverBack-4K5 on many large multi-camera shows including the widely seen live broadcast of last year’s Super Bowl Halftime Show, said: “We have pushed the envelope with the 4K5 in 110-degree heat, and they held up incredibly well in extreme heat and direct sunlight. It’s amazing to think that with all the added processing power of the SilverBack-V, they somehow stay even cooler in the outdoor heat.”

Up and Running in Less Than Half the Time

Beyond being camera-agnostic, Coker points to two SilverBack benefits as particularly helpful: quick-set up, and network connectivity. “We do live-to-air and live-to-tape events, which have different yet challenging timeline demands,” he said. “I can now get a 10-camera production up and running in four-to-six hours, compared to what used to take up to two days. The SilverBack-V has a more direct mounting interface that makes camera adaption even faster. From there it’s just pulling all the feeds from the I/O of the cameras, including SDI 12G, 6G, and 3G signals, as well as sync, timecode, power, audio, intercom and other important elements for the editors.”

Coker adds that MultiDyne’s 12G throughput and fiber-optic connectivity make it easy to manage cameras across multiple locations for live productions. He points to a recent large corporate event from a global provider of Internet-related services and products as an example of how MultiDyne makes complex shoots efficient. 

“We had 12 cameras for the main show and six remote cameras in other states, and we used the SilverBack to send everything over fiber and into the cloud for a three-hour event,” he said. “This is a show that has been done for 10 years and was enormously complex. Now we can provide everything back to the truck over the network with livegrade instead of RCPs. We brought the cinema world to multi-camera along with all the power to do everything with live control.”

Jesse Foster, Director of Product Development and Western Region Sales, confirms that MultiDyne evolved the SilverBack series specifically to support the advanced broadcast cinematic production requirements of 4K resolution, HDR and Wide Color Gamut, as well as 24fps support for film-like motion blur as well as high frame-rate acquisition for slow motion. “We are providing our customers with quick-set up, camera adaptability and flexible networking in ways that help them easily achieve their storytelling goals with greater cinematic emotion.” 

Cooke confirms that both SilverBack models will play significant roles in future live and recorded productions. He noted that the SilverBack-V was used for several holiday specials that aired over the 2021 holiday season and would be used for this year’s Super Bowl Halftime show. 

“These systems have completely changed the look and feel of these shows, and elevated the overall production quality for our clients,” said Cooke. “This has been a gamechanger for our high-end clients that are seeing something very different than what they were previously used to and commenting that they never thought they could achieve this level of quality.”

Quick Bio

Name: Satoshi Kanemura

Title: President

Company: FOR-A Corp. of America

Making Moves: Kanemura recently joined FOR-A after many years at Sony.

AVN: What attracted you to FOR-A at this stage in your career?

SATOSHI KANEMURA: I very much agree with and respect their fundamental philosophy, which is included in the company name. Translated from Japanese, FOR-A means “grow the business together.” FOR-A prioritizes listening to customers to understand their pain points and to create a solution together that supports and enhances the customers’ business, which in turn leads to FOR-A’s growth. They continue to create very unique gear, which is indispensable as part of a total system, such as 4K, 8K, 12G, 25G, IP. These innovations can’t be produced without understanding the total customer workflow. I’ve learned a lot of their future directions: migration toward IP, Cloud, AI, which is what customers really want but are challenged by now. I want to bring that ingenuity and enthusiasm to their marketing and overall communications in the Americas throughout my channel as well.

[The Integration Guide to AVoIP]

AVN: You were involved in many milestone moments while with Sony.  What experiences will help you most as you begin your leadership of FOR-A Americas?

SK: When I look back on my career, I believe there were many experiences and highlights that will serve me well in my new position with FOR-A Americas. When I was with Sony, we collaborated closely with filmmakers James Cameron and George Lucas to develop next generation digital cinematography solutions for Avatar and Star Wars films. And I worked to spearhead Sony’s efforts into xR virtual reality production, immersive education solutions, and AI-based edge computing. During all of those initiatives, we worked very closely with the end-user, developing and maintaining ongoing relationships with them. That will be the foundation of everything I do at FOR-A. We will work closely with our customers to develop products that solve their challenges and allow them to push their creativity even further. 

AVN: Can you describe FOR-A’s vision for the future?

SK: FOR-A’s future direction is all about the migration toward IP, Cloud, and AI-based comprehensive solutions. Even currently, our gear manages the full spectrum of IP, including every standard from NDI to Dante AV to SMPTE 2110. 

The design of our latest technology reflects the view that there will be a continued hybrid mix of 12G-SDI and IP workflows in live production. Production equipment that provides both 12G and SMPTE 2110 capability will be well suited to handle the format flexibility and bandwidth required to carry multiple 4K signals from many locations from acquisition to delivery. Live streaming technology that’s well poised for this year and beyond must be able to handle many formats, provide unprecedented bandwidth, and require little to no training.

[The Integration Guide to Streaming]

We’ve partnered with leading companies such as: ODYSSEY (developers of the Insight video server); ClassX (content creation and graphics playout technology); Variant Systems Group (sports replay and live event production); Media Links (IP media gateways); and Fujitsu (real-time video encoders.) We’re working with all of our partners to create the most integrated, cloud-based production system available to broadcasters and AV producers throughout the world, while maintaining our commitment to all of our current customers. All the future products will have migration path toward IP and Cloud AI.

AVN: Have the events of the past year prompted FOR-A to speed or alter its remote production product development? 

SK: Remote production will not disappear when social distancing and other COVID-19 restrictions are lifted. All of our integrated systems are IP-ready and very easy to deploy for streaming. We offer flexible remote production options. We’ve seen a dramatic increase in interest in the “web panel” workflow option in our HVS switcher series in the past year due to production restrictions caused by COVID-19. All our HVS series switchers have optional browser-based GUI’s. There is no significant difference when configuring an HVS switcher for remote production instead of an established studio control room or mobile production unit. Any browser-based GUI is configured separately from the physical panel. Multiple operators—one local and two remote—can use the switcher simultaneously, so the production is not reliant on a single internet connection during a live event. Also, we are planning to support control and monitor protocol in the industry, to enhance remote capabilities.

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

AVN: What’s an important but less discussed point regarding the future of AV production?

SK: Above all, AV producers need to partner with a company that will stay with them through the process and beyond. When transitioning to a video-over-IP infrastructure for example, there are multiple, incompatible standards. They should keep in mind that the capital cost of installing IP audio/video production and distribution system can be more costly than traditional SDI. Computer IP-based systems require software upgrades that must be continually tested. IP systems are more susceptible to computer hacking and therefore the use of firewalls and software upgrades to patch the software must become part of the normal maintenance mindset. To be successful with IP, engineers need a solid understanding of both audio and video, as well as computer networking. At FOR-A, we are extremely proud of our 24/7 customer support.

[What's the Status of the AV over IP Transition?]

AVN: Are there areas where you want to increase FOR-A's market presence?

SK: In the Americas, I am most interested in expanding our presence within production companies, corporate AV, and schools. We’ve been so focused on our engineering and our current customers that we haven’t looked to the long term. And to me the area or market that’s missing which we can serve very well are schools—for the same reason we’re so popular with houses of worship: Easy to use, capabilities of more expensive competitive systems, and close customer support. Also, throughout my experiences in creative community, I personally want to introduce FOR-A’s cutting-edge technology into the creative community, such as the xR and VR domain, including virtual production.

In terms of customer engagement, we’d like to focus on DX (digital transformation) as well, not only in improving our web site, but also with further enhancement of online training, seminars and promotion.

SMPTE has announced that the Society has earned two 2020 Emmy Awards for Technology and Engineering recognizing excellence in engineering creativity. One award honors SMPTE's work, undertaken with the Video Services Forum (VSF), European Broadcasting Union (EBU), and Advanced Media Workflow Association (AMWA), on standardization of the SMPTE ST 2110 Professional Media Over Managed IP Networks suite of standards. The other award acknowledges the Society's work on standardization and commercialization of television: broadcast, hybrid electrical, and fiber optic camera cable and connectors through the SMPTE ST 304 and ST 311 standards.

"We're enormously pleased that SMPTE's thoughtful, extensive, and collaborative work in creating standards for IP-based media transport is being recognized by NATAS and an Emmy Award," said SMPTE standards vice president Bruce Devlin. "We're likewise honored that our SMPTE ST 304 and SMPTE ST 311 standards have earned an Emmy Award for materially benefiting users across the broadcast ecosystem. It is a shining example of multivendor cooperation and interoperability that have an industry impact far greater than one would expect from simply reading the document titles."

"SMPTE worked with The Association of Radio Industries and Businesses, the EBU, LEMO, Belden, and NEMAL to enable interoperability in a critical area of modern broadcast workflow and infrastructure," added Devlin. "Both of these standards suites already play a significant role in bringing greater agility and efficiency to content creation and distribution."

The SMPTE ST 2110 suite of standards is a major contributing factor in the movement toward one common internet protocol (IP)-based mechanism for the professional media industries. The standards suite, which is built on the VSF Technical Recommendation for Transport of Uncompressed Elementary Stream Media Over IP (TR-03), specifies the carriage, synchronization, and description of separate elementary essence streams over IP for real-time production, playout, and other professional media applications.

Since 2003, the hybrid fiber/copper camera connector SMPTE ST 304 and cable SMPTE ST 311 have served to unify the industry on a single connector and cable for the connection between HDTV cameras and their control units. From the 2009 revision, this connector and cable combination has become ubiquitous for broadcast cameras in live broadcast and production. With data rates up to 40 Gbps, the combination has enabled investment in venue infrastructure and ensured that infrastructure can continue to be used in the UHDTV era.

The National Academy of Television Arts and Sciences (NATAS) will present the 2020 awards at the 72nd Annual Technology & Engineering Emmy Awards Ceremony, which is tentatively scheduled for Oct. 10 as a virtual event held in partnership with the National Association of Broadcasters (NAB) Show.

"Earning two Emmy Awards in a single year is a remarkable achievement, and I'm proud of the work that SMPTE members and our partners put forward in developing the SMPTE ST 2110 and SMPTE ST 304 and 311 standards," said SMPTE president Hans Hoffmann. "These Emmy Awards show how critical collaboration with other organizations, such as VSF, EBU, and others, has been in the past — and, even more, how important they are to the future of our industry. We plan to build on this success and deliver further standards and specifications to continue driving interoperability across our rapidly evolving industry."

SMPTE will host its annual technical conference and exhibition on Nov. 10-12 as an interactive and immersive remote experience with an array of learning and networking opportunities. Within this highly customizable online format, SMPTE 2020 will provide opportunities for attendees to explore the variety of new technologies and business models shaping the future of media and entertainment. 

The theme for this year’s event is “Game On,” with one full day focused on the convergence of esports/gaming and media technology and the unique requirements of the thriving esports industry.

Related: Lori Bajorek to Keynote AV/IT Summit 

“By eliminating traditional barriers to participation such as travel, the cost of accommodation, and scheduling conflicts, we’re making SMPTE 2020 a broadly accessible and truly global conference,” said SMPTE executive director Barbara Lange. “We look forward to increased participation from all SMPTE Sections around the world.”

Attendees will be welcomed into an immersive environment that incorporates a main conference hub, meeting rooms for a chance to “ask the experts,” theater space for sessions and the annual Awards Gala, and an exhibition hall with private meeting space. SMPTE 2020 will offer flexibility in accessing technical presentations, practical hands-on training, product and technology demonstrations, peer-group discussions, virtual panels, and sponsored roundtable discussions, as well as networking events, social hours, and even trivia and esports competitions.

“While we’ll miss being able to meet in person with friends and colleagues at SMPTE 2020, we can’t help but be excited about the many ways a creatively designed and professionally architected online experience allows us to bring our community together for a world-class event,” said Sara Kudrle, SMPTE education vice president. “Attendees will know immediately that they are entering a top-notch conference experience, not just another website.” 

Like last year’s conference, SMPTE 2020 will include the SMPTE Storytellers series, expanded technical tutorials and training, and programming from SMPTE partners. New content will include bite-sized keynotes, quick “Standards 101” sessions, and shorter hot-topic discussions that allow attendees to build a custom conference experience that suits their own schedules and interests.

While they can join live sessions, meetings, and demos throughout the conference, attendees also will enjoy on-demand access to recorded presentations, exhibitor videos and product guides, and much more. Presenting their technologies in interactive booths with virtual demo rooms, exhibitors will be able to leverage their own resources—rather than those of a conventional exhibition hall—to optimize the experience for their prospects and customers. Without space constraints of a physical booth, the potential for bigger, higher-quality demos will let exhibitors make more meaningful connections with attendees. Given the ease at which professionals around the world can partake in SMPTE 2020, exhibitors can take advantage of the 24-hour exhibit hall. 

Alongside traditional sponsorship opportunities, sponsors will have the option to provide attendees with unique VIP experiences such as behind-the-scenes tours, interactive activities with celebrity hosts, and more. Companies can also design an occasion to bring attendees together for lighthearted fun via remote interaction. 

SMPTE will once again host its annual Awards Gala during the conference, bringing together honorees and guests from around the world to celebrate the accomplishments of our industry luminaries and next-generation leaders. 

SMPTE has announced changes to its educational programming designed to make it easier for industry professionals to keep up with the latest technology and to learn new skills. In addition to supporting professional development, the society's array of webcasts, meetings, and online courses offers members a way to connect with colleagues and to prepare for future opportunities in a changing industry and world.

"We know that many industry professionals are working longer hours to keep news and entertainment running, while others are working from home and some have been laid off," said Barbara Lange, executive director at SMPTE. "It's a difficult time for our industry and all our members worldwide, no matter what their situation. Our hope is that improved access to SMPTE webcasts, virtual courses, live-streamed meetings, and a set of standards and journal articles will help our membership maintain connections with peers and mentors, continue to benefit from the experience of industry leaders, and expand their own knowledge, expertise, and readiness for whatever the future may bring."

Related: AVIXA Opens Online Training Through June 12

SMPTE has made the following changes to its educational and technical offerings:

• Virtual course prices have been cut by 50 percent. Details are available under the Instructor and Self-Study options, accessible from the education dropdown menu on the SMPTE homepage.
• SMPTE technology webcasts are all available online to everyone here.
• The society has also opened a collection of freely accessible SMPTE Standards and articles from the SMPTE Motion Imaging Journal to help professionals in their work. See the list here. 
• The society is working with local SMPTE Sections to get meetings streamed so that every member can stay on top of technology, no matter where they are. The latest news on Section meetings is available at smpte.org, in the society's newsletters, and in local Section emails. Subscribe to general and Section-specific communications here.
• SMPTE's microsites help professionals obtain insights under one theme. Themes established so far include Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning in Media, Blockchain in Media, and Microservices in Media. More sites are currently under development.

"Throughout SMPTE's history, the society has responded to the demands of evolving technologies through our Technology Committees, educational offerings, access to thought-leading engineers and creatives, and more," said SMPTE president Patrick Griffis. "The situation we face now is generating a new set of demands and challenges for our membership and industry. To respond to these challenges, we are making some of our standards documents and SMPTE Motion Imaging Journal articles freely available and access to our extensive library of motion-imaging technology and professional media education options more affordable to engineers and technologists worldwide."

SMPTE is seeking technical manuscripts for peer review and possible publication in upcoming issues of the SMPTE Motion Imaging Journal. Published 10 times per year, with nine print/online editions and one online-only edition, the Motion Imaging Journal gives readers a window into the technical world of motion-imaging science. Each issue covers a particular topic, and past issues have focused on themes such as file-based workflow, compression, UHD/HDR, audio, distribution formats, machine learning, cloud technologies, content management, display, over-the-top, and digital cinema.

All manuscripts published in the Journal undergo an extensive peer-review process, and the SMPTE editorial board ultimately determines if a paper will be published and in which issue. If selected, the benefits include:

• Demonstration of author's expertise and technical knowledge
• The opportunity to take a deep dive into a specific topic
• A chance to be published in SMPTE's journal known for thought leadership, timely perspectives on critical topics, and identified by SMPTE Members as the number-one member benefit.

Manuscripts submitted for publication in the journal must be informational and well-crafted, and they must address technical theory, research, innovation, application, or practice specific to any of the evolving technologies associated with the media and entertainment industry. Preference will be given to forward-thinking papers and particularly to research-based manuscripts addressing cutting-edge technology. Manuscripts that are of a commercial or promotional nature will not be considered.

SMPTE is accepting manuscripts now for review, and the process typically takes five months. The Society does not charge a fee for publishing, but it does retain the copyright to the paper. (SMPTE grants the author certain rights in the referencing and reuse of the published paper.)

For guidelines on submitting a manuscript, click here. Further information about SMPTE is available at smpte.org. 

SMPTE has announced that the SMPTE 2018 Annual Technical Conference and Exhibition (SMPTE 2018) and the SMPTE 2018 Symposium preceding it were a success across the board.

Held October 23-25 at a new and more expansive venue, the Westin Bonaventure Hotel & Suites in downtown Los Angeles, SMPTE 2018 featured 78 technical presentations selected from a remarkable 156 paper proposals; advanced technology exhibitions; a ceremony recognizing newly elevated SMPTE Fellows; the annual awards gala; a luau reception, an Oktoberfest reception, and a Trick or Treat Spooktacular reception; on-location video coverage by postPerspective; and a daily newsletter published by The Broadcast Bridge.

"We leveraged our new venue to expand the technical and educational offerings at SMPTE 2018, as well as the social and networking opportunities available throughout the event," said SMPTE executive director Barbara Lange. "It proved to be a dynamic conference, covering topics including artificial intelligence and its growing influence on the motion imaging industry, the ongoing shift toward IP-based facilities and workflows, the expanding role of the cloud in media production applications, and the promotion of diversity and inclusion across our industry—topped off by a spectacular awards gala recognizing the industry's best talent."

On Monday, October 22, the full-day SMPTE 2018 Symposium drew a crowd with the topic "Driving the Entertainment Revolution: Autonomous Cars, Machine Intelligence, and Mixed Reality." The Symposium explored how artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning, coupled with improvements in picture and sound, are coming together to create fully immersive experiences that will revolutionize the entertainment industry. Intel Automated Driving Group senior vice president Douglas Davis delivered the keynote: "Safety Today for the Autonomous Tomorrow."

The day's events also included the annual Women in Technology Luncheon, presented by Hollywood Professional Association's (HPA's) Women in Post Committee and SMPTE. The luncheon featured a conversation with tech entrepreneur and philanthropist Rachel Payne, who is CEO of FEM, a company founded by women whose mission is to serve and empower diverse audiences.

SMPTE 2018 kicked off on Tuesday, launching with the SMPTE Annual General Membership Meeting. SMPTE president-elect Patrick Griffis joined SMPTE president Matthew Goldman to introduce a strategic business plan, newly approved by the SMPTE board of governors, that articulates SMPTE's guiding principles, vision, and mission statements and details a three-year roadmap and investment plan.

The technical conference sessions began with a keynote presentation by 30 Ninjas CEO Julina Tatlock, who is an award-winning writer-producer, virtual reality (VR) director, and social TV specialist. Tatlock provided SMPTE 2018 attendees with a rich and rare perspective on how leading-edge creatives are working with next-gen technologies to redefine the very nature of media and entertainment.

Over three days of technical presentations, speakers and panelists addressed topics such as professional media networking; internet protocol (IP)-based solutions and workflows; the Better Pixels Project; managing complex workflows; evaluating image quality for brighter displays, immersive visual experiences, and high-dynamic-range (HDR); AI algorithms and why they will become a must for any content producer and provider; the evolution of streaming services; the cloud; the metamorphosis of today's encoding technologies; advances in display technologies; and using media asset management (MAM) to better manage metadata.

Midway through the event, 50 dedicated SMPTE 2018 attendees got up early for the 4K 4Charity Fun Run hosted by AWS Elemental, an Amazon Web Services (AWS) company, in Los Angeles' Elysian Park. The race brought in more than $10,000, and a portion of the proceeds will support the Geena Davis Institute on Gender in Media.

The SMPTE 2018 Awards Gala and after-party, held in the San Francisco Ballroom of the Westin Bonaventure Hotel & Suites, marked the end of this year's event. Dean McFlicker, award-winning producer and director at NBC and one of Hollywood's leading marketing experts, served as host of the program, recognizing individuals for their technical achievements and contributions within the media and entertainment industry.

Live video from the annual general membership meeting and video interviews are available for on-demand viewing on the SMPTE YouTube channel. Must-see photos are available on the society's Flickr page. Video of presentations and technical papers are already available to conference attendees, and they will be available to the general public on January 28 at www.youtube.com/smpteconnect. Subscribers to conference proceedings in the SMPTE digital library hosted on the IEEE Xplore platform will have access to the presentations and papers by Jan. 28.

Next year's event, the SMPTE 2019 Annual Technical Conference and Exhibition (SMPTE 2019), will take place from October 21-24, 2019, at the same location, the Westin Bonaventure Hotel & Suites in downtown Los Angeles. The call for paper proposals will open in February 2019.

SMPTE is collaborating with the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences to conduct the year's second face-to-face Interoperable Master Format (IMF) plugfest, designed to test vendors' ability to create and play interoperable IMF packages. First standardized by SMPTE in 2013, IMF enables efficient, consistent, and reliable exchange, delivery, and archiving of media for motion pictures, television, and other content platforms.

To facilitate broad industry participation from around the world, SMPTE has scheduled a second plugfest for October18-19, just days before the SMPTE 2018 Annual Technical Conference and Exhibition (SMPTE 2018), which will take place October 22-25 at the Westin Bonaventure Hotel & Suites in downtown Los Angeles. The plugfest will be held at the Academy's Pickford Center for Motion Picture Study in Hollywood, CA, as a meeting of the SMPTE Media Packaging and Interchange Technology Committee (TC-35PM) Plugfest Drafting Group. The year's first face-to-face IMF plugfest organized by SMPTE was hosted earlier this year by IRT in Munich.

"The Munich plugfest delivered exciting results, and interest in IMF continues to grow," said SMPTE director of standards development Thomas Bause Mason. "Industry members, including some major players, continue to embrace this format, largely because they like the many benefits it offers. We expect participation in both the Hollywood plugfest and in vendor demonstrations at SMPTE 2018 to be very promising for the future of IMF."

More than 20 organizations have registered to take part in the face-to-face plugfest in Hollywood. Results from the event will be anonymized and then shared with SMPTE TC-35PM members. SMPTE will also conduct a "virtual plugfest" in advance of the Hollywood event to provide vendors with the opportunity to work with the source material ahead of time in their labs. Details on the virtual event are available to members of the SMPTE working group on plugfests.

Registration for the Hollywood plugfest is required and will be open until September 18. Participation requires SMPTE membership and Standards Community participation within SMPTE TC 35PM. More information on membership is available at smpte.org/join. Qualified guests may attend subject to space availability, upon completion of a guest participation agreement, which is available by emailing a request to standards-info@smpte.org.

Hotel accommodations at the Westin Bonaventure Hotel & Suites, with reduced pricing, are available through September 28, or while rooms remain through the SMPTE 2018 website: smpte2018.org/event-info.html.

While the AV world is approaching IP-based mediatransmission from anumber of different directions, counterparts on the broadcast side of things are arriving at a consolidated solution for their transport needs.

After years of work by several industry organizations, the SMPTE (Society of Motion Picture and Television Engineers) 2110 Standards are being published. The VSF (Video Services Forum), AES (Audio Engineering Society), and EBU (European Broadcasters Union) joined SMPTE in the effort. They also used existing standards from the IETF (Internet Engineering Task Force) and the IEEE (Institute of Electrical and Electronic Engineers) to build a protocol architecture that is open and IT friendly. However, to understand the position of the SVIP (SMPTE Video over IP) suite, we must look at the networks often used to deliver video.

The broadcast industry is focused on the contribution network, where video is created and processed. Typically, they deliver the video to the carrier network made up of regulated service providers. The content is then delivered over enterprise networks or access connections to homes and businesses. What we are inclined to call the AV industry is focused on this last part of the delivery.

As a result, we might wonder why this 2110 effort is of importance to us. But there are several reasons why AV professionals should pay attention to it:

• The needs of the broadcast, pro AV, and AV segments appear to be slowly merging. Users are demanding high-quality, low-latency video with no or little compression.
• The 2110 suite is an excellent example of building on standards previously in wide use in IT.
• Much of what is proposed could be in used current AV implementations that use proprietary technologies.
• While the AV industry is debating the need for 1Gb versus 10Gb networks, the 2110 planners already have incorporated 25Gb, 40Gb, and 100Gb networks in their roadmap for the future.
• The development of the 2110 suite is an example of cooperation between groups to meet a common need. This could be contrasted with the disagreements between several AV implementations that claim to be based on standards.

The SVIP suite has several main parts:

• ST 2210-10 “System Overview”
• ST 2110-20 “Uncompressed Active Video” based on RFC 4175
• ST 2110-30 “PCM Audio” based on AES 67
• ST 2110 -40 “Ancillary Data”

There are other important parts, but considering these four will give us a good education about what the suite is all about. 2110-10, -20, and -30 have been ratified as of IBC 2017. 2110-40 is reported to be very near to ratification and already is in use in many products.

The standards were developed by the JT-NW (Joint Taskforce Networked Media). This was comprised of representatives from the groups mentioned in the beginning of the article. They had some specific goals.

• Use of existing IT standards so that commodity Ethernet networks could be used.
• Avoiding the use of proprietary techniques and technologies.
• Preservation of very accurate timing but recorded and transmitted in the RTP (RealTime Protocol) header.
• Transport of separate elementary streams for video, audio, and metadata.

The first goal is illustrated nicely in Figure 1, which is derived from SMPTE presentations. Experienced IT persons will recognize this as identical to the architecture of nearly all existing IP applications.

The third and fourth goals need to be explained more completely. In the current, widely used transport method, MEPG Transport Stream (MPTS), the timing values are imbedded in small MPEG packets, which are in the data field of each IP packet. Also, the audio, video, and data MPEG packets are multiplexed (mixed). So, each IP packet might contain timing, media, and data for any or all of the video and audio sources. Let’s say the media from one of the sources, right audio, needs to be amplified. The stream must be de-multiplexed (separated), processed for amplification, and finally re-multiplexed to be sent forward. This seems to be an inefficient way to handle the separate elementary streams. Therefore, under the 2110 scheme, video, left audio, right audio, and ancillary data are carried in separate IP streams. This doesn’t mean that they will require separate addresses. This can be accomplished by the sending encoder using separate UDP port numbers. But this method makes it easy to access the various components of the user presentation and enhance, copy, store, scale, or otherwise process.

There are some technical details that also should be mentioned. In the audio industry, precise timing is critical. That’s the argument behind AVB and Dante. ST-2110-10 specifies the use of SMPTE 2059 PTP (Precision Time Protocol). 2059 is also based on IEEE 1588, which is widely endorsed by both the audio and video industries. The RTP timing in the IP packets is locked to the PTP time. That guarantees tight synchronization between the various streams. 2110-10 also specifies the use of SDP (Session Description Protocol) stipulated in RFC 4566. This was first used in VoIP as part of SIP (Session Initiation Protocol) nearly two decades ago.

For this article we interviewed Jack Douglass, vice president of business development at PacketStorm Communications. Douglass is chair of SMPTE 32NF-80 DG Interop ST2059 and chair of the VSF and JT-NM Interop Activity Group. He said that the various organizations have been committed to meeting the needs of broadcasters while using as many existing IT (TCP/IP) standards as possible. He described an interoperability lab at NAB 2018 that involved equipment from more than 60 vendors and performed exactly according to the specifications in ST-2110. Because of his company’s belief in the guidance offered by the SVIP standards, they’ve modified their network emulator product to do deep analysis of the 2110 streams. Their product, the Hurricane VIP Media Analyzer, can give very complete descriptions of virtually all the timing, packet contents, and buffer behavior from the transmission point to the receiver point. Douglass also discussed the strict requirements of the Ethernet switches and demonstrated that several off-the-shelf switches failed to meet the latency requirements for latency in relaying Ethernet frames.

AT IBC 2017, a panel of experts from SMPTE and the EBU discussed the 2110 suite. It’s available on YouTube and we recommend that you view it. It will provide a detailed description of the parts of the standard, how they relate to existing standards, and how the standards are expected to be used.

Let’s summarize what we believe to be important about this new suite of standards. They have been developed by broadcasters for the broadcast industry. However, much of what is specified can be applied nicely to other parts of the larger AV industry. Standards developed by one sector being used in another sector is essentially how we developed VoIP, videoconferencing, AVB audio, and adaptive bitrate video. We should recall that the original motivation behind the development of Ethernet was to deliver print files to printers on behalf of Xerox. It would have been almost impossible to imagine that we would use this technology in the myriad ways we do today. The timing methods, encapsulation structure, commitment to open standards, and reuse of existing standards may provide an excellent roadmap for the use of technologies across the AV industry. Therefore, it may be worth pondering whether the wide variety of delivery methods in AV (ABR, SRT, SDVoE, SDI over IP, QUIC, RTSP/TCP/UDP, MPTS with and without RTP) could be consolidated with methods similar to those used by SMPTE.

The What: Extron Electronics has introduced the new DA4 12G HD‑SDI, a compact four‑output distribution amplifier for multi‑rate SDI digital video signals.

The What Else: It supports all common serial digital video data rates up to 11.88 Gbps, while passing HDR, embedded audio, and other ancillary data allowed by the SMPTE and ITU standards. Automatic input cable equalization adds up to 984 feet (300 meters) for SDI, 787 feet (240 meters) for HD‑SDI, 590 feet (180 meters) for 3G-SDI, 295 feet (90 meters) for 6G-SDI, and 230 feet (70 meters) for 12G-SDI digital video, when using RG6 cable. Automatic output reclocking reshapes and restores signal timing at each output for added headroom when connecting multiple devices.

"The DA4 12G HD-SDI supports the latest SMPTE standards and compliments our growing 12G-SDI product line," said Casey Hall, vice president of sales and marketing for Extron. "Customers now have a convenient option for sending 4K capable, multi-rate SDI long distances to multiple locations in broadcast, production, medical imaging, and other demanding applications."

The Bottom Line: The DA4 12G HD-SDI is housed in a quarter rack width, metal enclosure, providing integration-friendly mounting options into both new and existing AV systems.

The What: MuxLab has introduced two IP-based Uncompressed Gateway Converters for SDI and HDMI. Both solutions are designed to support the integration of AV equipment in commercial broadcast systems such as in TV stations and studio facilities.

The What Else: The HDMI 2.0/ST2110 over IP Uncompressed Gateway Converter (model 500774) gives broadcasters the ability to deliver uncompressed HDMI 2.0 signals throughout the studio at 4K resolutions. Users can opt to connect equipment to a local 10Gb Ethernet network in which nearly unlimited sources and displays can be matrixed together to enable point to multipoint and multipoint to multipoint connections.

Connections to the local 10Gb Ethernet network is accomplished via multimode fiber at up to 1,300 feet (400m) in distance from the Ethernet switch using OM4 fiber. Alternatively, users can also connect one AV source to one display in a point-to-point arrangement at up to 1,300 feet (400m) in distance using one duplex multimode OM4 fiber with LC connectors. Both methods support uncompressed 4K resolutions at 60Hz. External audio can be inserted at the source and extracted at the display to accompany the video. One 1Gb Ethernet switch port is provided for the connection of additional network devices, as well an RS-232 port for the remote control of end devices.

The 3G-SDI/ST2110 over IP Uncompressed Gateway Converter (model 500767) connects HD- and 3G-SDI sources and displays to a local 10Gb Ethernet network, enabling the ability to send multiple video sources to multiple displays in nearly any combination. Users can also opt to install this system in the traditional point-to-point way in which one AV source is delivered to one display using Cat-5e/6 cable from up to 100 feet (30m) in distance or by using duplex multimode fiber cable at up to 1,300 feet (400m) in distance. All methods of signal extension support uncompressed resolutions up to 1080p resolution at 60Hz. A 1Gb Ethernet switch allows the connection of additional network devices, and an RS-232 port allows for the remote control of end devices.

The Bottom Line: Both Gateway Converters support SMPTE ST-2110. When riding on an IP infrastructure, the 3G-SDI/ST2110 over IP Uncompressed Gateway Converter can be accessed and controlled by MuxLab’s Pro Digital Network Controller (model 500811), which simplifies the configuration of IP-based systems and gives complete access from any smartphone, tablet, or third-party control system. Furthermore, the HDMI 2.0/ST2110 over IP Uncompressed Gateway Converter supports NMOS for third-party management. Both models will begin shipping in Q3 2018.