Essential Install February 2018

The essential magazine for the custom install industry

February 2018

CPR

COMPLIANT

Construction Products Regulation

INSIDE

EN 50575

Cover.indd 1

FLATSCREEN TVS AND MONITORS

WHAT’S NEW TO VIEW

TRAINING

NO TRAIN, NO GAIN

ISE REVIEW

A DAM GOOD SHOW

27/02/2018 11:33

A New Era O F

V I D E O

D I S T R I B U T I O N

CM100

The CM100 Control Module allows simple third party control of the Multicast system using TCP/IP, RS-232 or IR

4 K

U H D

V I D E O

O V E R

RSU-6RU

Universal 6RU Rack Shelf Unit with 8x Vertical Blade Shelves

J Easy Installation J Vented front panel and shelves

I P

IP100UHD-RX/TX IP Multicast UHD Video Reciever / Transmitter

J Easy to set up and install using our comprehensive wizard software

J Extends HDMI up to a distance of 100m over single CAT cable J Power over Ethernet to power

Perfect for Complex Residential & Commercial AV Installations

Matrix distribution

M U LT I C A S T U H D

J Supports HDR pass through J Supports 4K UHD video up to 100m J Bi-directional RS-232 pass through

UK Training Nottingham

(Requires 1GB network switch)

(Requires 1GB network switch)

Blustream products J Advanced EDID management

Video wall presentation

with unlimited configuration options

O P E R A T I O N A L

M O D E S

One-to-many

One-to-one

HDMI distribution (No network switch required)

HDMI extender (No network switch required)

EXPERIENCE THE POWER OF BLUSTREAM

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Tel: +44(0)115 824 7000

Friday 08.12.17 Get in touch to book your place today J

For all the latest Blustream

TH 20product SEP 2017 animations EPSOM DOWNS RACECOURSE, SURREY

Blustream_EI_2017_november_v2.indd All Pages Untitled-3 2

Email: sales@blustream.co.uk

20 SEP 2017

W e b : TH w w w. b l u s t r e a m . c o . u k EPSOM DOWNS RACECOURSE, SURREY

23/11/2017 10:20

New

Introducing the new

PRODUCT

C O N T R A C T O R

S E R I E S

C44-KIT

HD

HDCP 2.2

A U D I O

2.0

3D

PoE

EDID

A U D I O

HEX70B-KIT

WEB

GUI

GRAPHICAL USER INTERFACE

Contractor 4x4 HDBaseT™ Matrix Kit

70m (4K up to 40m) Includes 4x HEX70B-RX HDBaseT™ Receivers

HEX100ARC-KIT-V2

HDBaseT™ Extender Set - 70m (4K up to 40m)

HDBaseT™ Extender Set - 100m (4K up to 70m)

*Transmitter

*Receiver

PRO88HBT70

C U S T O M P R O

Pro 8x8 HDBaseT™ Matrix

J Supports 4K UHD video up to 40m J Control of Matrix via front panel, RS-232, TCP/IP and web GUI J HDCP 2.2 Compliant J Robust housing and interlocking board configuration ensures seamless installation and maintenance

2-Way IR, RS-232 and Audio Breakout, simultaneous HDMI output

HSP14-V2

SM11

4-Way 4K HDMI 2.0 Splitter with EDID management

J HDCP 2.2 Compliant J 1 HDMI input that is replicated to 4 HDMI outputs

J Supports full HDMI 2.0 specification 4K UHD video (4K @60Hz 4:4:4)

Advanced HDMI 2.0 HDCP 2.2 Signal Manager

J HDCP 2.2 compliant J Supports full HDMI 2.0 specification 4K UHD video (4K @60Hz 4:4:4) J Can be configured to work as either a HDMI audio embedder or de-embedder

J Supports all known HDMI audio formats including Dolby TrueHD, Dolby Atmos, Dolby Digital Plus and DTS-HD Master Audio transmission

We are launching a series of regular interactive online tutorials, focused on providing convenient, bite sized insights into the latest Blustream solutions and the day to day challenges we all currently face in our rapidly evolving market.

Multicast UHD

Introduction and Overview

Multicast UHD

Configuration and Best Practice

Advanced Multicast UHD

System Configuration and Control

HDBaseT™ Best Practice

Book Now J

At www.blustream.co.uk

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HDMI 2.0 Best Practice New Product Launch

Introduction to the C44 & SC11HD-V2 23/11/2017 23/11/2017 10:05 10:20

Essential Install | Contents

The essential magazine for the custom install industry

February 2018

CPR

COMPLIANT

Construction Products Regulation

INSIDE

EN 50575

FLATSCREEN TVS AND MONITORS

WHAT’S NEW TO VIEW

TRAINING

NO TRAIN, NO GAIN

ISE REVIEW

A DAM GOOD SHOW

February 2018 In this issue…

REGULARS

May 9-10 Sandown Park Surrey essentialinstalllive.com

FEATURES

5 From the Editor’s desk

18 CE Pro Europe

16 Case study: D-Tools

7 Essential news

24 Habitech headlines

20 Case study: Artcoustic

12 OneAV words

26 EI Live!

22 CEDIA Interview

14 CEDIA showcase

46 Awesome alliances

29 Training

58 Training

36 BEMCO Interview

60 Essential products

38 Flatscreen TVs & Monitors

The morning after the show before Home automation headlines Who’s the new partner?

Online opinions

Taking care of business

Cable worries uncrossed

Winning installs

Decadent dining

Serving up Cornflake

New boss in town

The SDVoE Alliance

Yearning for learning

Get your training dates sorted Opulent offerings

What is KNX?

Thinner, brighter, bolder

48 Work hard, climb hard An inspirational journey

Case Study

16

Flatscreen TVs & Monitors

50 ISE Review

Average net circulation October 2015 to October 2016

Giving a dam

5,212

38

Case study

20

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the gateway to genuine, immersive cinema at home.

immersive audio Decoders • Dolby Atmos™ (16 discretely-rendered channels).

• Auro-3D™ (supports Auro’s full 13.1 layout).

• DTS:X™ (all configurations of its 11.1 format).

trinnov Speaker/Room optimizer • Trinnov’s exclusive Speaker/Room Optimizer • Calibration wizard for initial setup & management • Process high-resolution 24bit/96kHz audio • Four-way active crossovers & unlimited subwoofers • Ready for audio over IP

expeRience trinnov at ouR immersive audio event Dolby, lonDon - 10th april

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pages 24-25

From The

Editor’s Desk The hangover Niamh Marriott, Editor

You did it, ISE is over for another year. As the industry gives a collective yawn and gently massages its worn feet, EI looks back over the show, choosing the most supreme snippets of heavenly hardware launched, keynote speeches made and the people and parties that made it a knackering but spectacular show.

I wonder whether it has indeed grown to such mammoth proportions that it all merges into one big chaotic myriad of marvel, and many great products get missed in the mix. In addition, the entire industry shuts down for a whole week, entirely exhausts itself and doesn’t focus on anything else for five days. I wonder whether this is actually the way we should be attending shows, whether it is actually of benefit to installers.

Late last year, I was invited to attend the Invision roadshow, Home Technology Showcase, where the distributor offered all of its brands a chance to speak oneon-one with its customers, dealers, installers and curious smart technicians, in a much smaller space. Keynote

speeches given to a room of 20 or 30 were large enough to have an impact and ensured a focus Q&A section at the end. To combat the size, Invision took their show on the road, and in this form managed to create genuinely useful conversations across the various venues. This is also why I’m particularly looking forward to EI Live! this year, where we’ve introduced a Smart Home Seminar, filled with wonderfully wise speakers.

So, how did you find the monster tradeshow this year, what products impressed and what fell short? Is the extra day of ISE an advantage or does it lag? Is the show getting too big, too massive that it overwhelms, or do you indulge in the chaos and excitement among the stands? This is your industry and I always want to give you a platform to speak your mind so please write to me and tell me your thoughts.

As ever, if you’d like to contribute to any of our upcoming features, or to discuss editorial opportunities, please don’t hesitate to get in touch and email me niamh@allthingmedialtd.com or call 01634 673 163.

May 9-10 2018. Free registration – essentialinstalllive.com EDITOR IN CHIEF: Daniel Sait, dan@allthingsmedialtd.com EDITOR: Niamh Marriott, niamh@allthingsmedialtd.com CONTRIBUTING JOURNALISTS: Jordan O’Brien, jordan@allthingsmedialtd.com SALES DIRECTOR: Ian Kitchener, ian@allthingsmedialtd.com ASSISTANT AD MANAGER: Jacob Brisley, jacob.brisley@allthingsmedialtd.com PUBLISHER: David Kitchener, david@allthingsmedialtd.com ACCOUNTS: susan@allthingsmedialtd.com CIRCULATION: carol@allthingsmedialtd.com STUDIO MANAGER: Ben Bristow, ben@allthingsmedialtd.com GRAPHIC DESIGN: Jon Appleton, jon@allthingsmedialtd.com Essential Install magazine, Suite 14, 6-8 Revenge Road, Lordswood, Chatham, Kent ME5 8UD. T: +44 (0)1634 673163 F: +44 (0)1634 673173 Whist we make every effort that everything printed in Essential Install magazine is factually correct, we cannot be held responsible if factual errors occur.

All articles are copyright and remain the property of Essential Install magazine.

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Share your laptop, mobile and tablet wirelessly to any display.

INSTANT MEETING & HUDDLE ROOMS WITH SOLSTICE POD The Solstice Pod allows an unlimited number of users to share and collaborate all on one display.

Perfect for classrooms, conference rooms, or any meeting space with a display.

Distributed in the UK by

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Essential Install | News

Essential News Smart home happenings and automation announcements

SCP

Tabatha O’Connor named CEDIA global president and CEO

Tabatha O’Connor is given the top job at CEDIA

The CEDIA board of directors has announced the promotion of Tabatha O’Connor from acting to permanent CEDIA global president and CEO. Tabatha joined the CEDIA team in 2002. Over her tenure, she has led many different departments including membership, finance, human resources, operations, and volunteer development. In 2015, Tabatha was promoted to CEO, a role that had her creating structures and processes to manage the association’s activities. She has deep experience in association management and governance and has served as acting global president and CEO since May 2017.

“I am honoured to be named global president and CEO. I am passionate about building this industry and providing our members the tools they need to be successful. The organisation is at a very exciting pivot point as we implement our new strategic plan, construct our new global headquarters that will serve as a resource to our members and our industry, and expand CEDIA’s educational programming around the world,” said Tabatha.

“Tabatha has proven herself to be an incredibly effective leader, working to make some of CEDIA’s most significant projects become a reality,” said David Humphries, CEDIA chairman. “ From the global alignment to the sale of the show to our new headquarters, Tabatha has been the one to carry the torch across the finish line.”

Tabatha is the board treasurer for Integrated Systems Events, the management company co-owned by CEDIA and AVIXA that produces ISE, among others. She also serves as board treasurer for ESPA (Electronic Systems Professional Alliance). In 2016, she was chosen by Dealerscope as one of their Powerful Women in Consumer Tech.

CEDIA 01480 213 744, cedia.co.uk

Oceanair wins big at European business awards

We are the champions! Oceanair picks up a prestigious business award

Oceanair has been named as one of 12 national champions from a short list of 196 businesses, representing the ‘Ones to Watch in the United Kingdom’ for Europe’s largest business competition. Oceanair is a supplier of blinds, shades, screens, and soft furnishings in the marine and domestic markets market.

Chosen by a panel of independent judges, including senior business leaders, politicians and academics, Oceanair was UK champion in the Awards’ category of ‘Business of the Year £0-25m’.

Oceanair will now go on to represent the UK in this category in the final stage of the competition, against 32 other businesses.

Founder and managing director, Andy FitzGerald, said, “It’s a great honour for Oceanair to be recognised and is really something for Oceanair as a company to be proud of!”

The European Business Awards is now in its 11th year and its primary purpose is to support the development of a stronger and more successful business community throughout Europe. Last year, it engaged with over 33,000 businesses from 34 countries.

Adrian Tripp, CEO of the European business awards said, “This is an amazing achievement and Oceanair is clearly a stand out leader in their field. To be a National winner means you represent our core values of success, ethics and innovation and are one of the best in Europe. We wish them the best of luck in the final round.”

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Oceanair 01243 606 909, oceanair.co.uk

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Essential Install | News

This is the 18th project completed by Together for Cinema

Charity group provides cinema for respite centre

SCP

After becoming a parent in 2017, Shaun Wilson of KNEKTD Integrated Media was keen to get involved in a charitable project to help children. Founded by ISE’s Ian Morrish, Together For Cinema brings the industry together in a charitable drive to deliver the wonder of home cinema to respite centres for children with life limiting conditions and their families to enjoy. The Bluebells cinema is the latest, the 18th project of its kind delivered by Together For Cinema for a children’s hospice or respite home.

“I started to look for ways to get involved in a worthwhile installation back in September this year and found Together For Cinema,” said Shaun. “Ian and I have been truly touched by the number of people who have come forward to donate their time, products and expertise. This project has reminded me of the amazing things that can be achieved when everyone pulls together in a good cause!

“I’m incredibly proud of what we have done and so pleased we’ve been able to create a fun, interactive space for the children and families at The Bluebells. We hope the Cinema provides many hours of entertainment for those who visit.”

All products, carpentry, room design and associated services were sourced, supplied and installed free of any charge and included an Epson projector and a screen from Projecta, donated by Habitech, speakers and a subwoofer courtesy of Monitor Audio, QMotion automated blinds, and a Control4 processor to control the whole system. The approximate total cost of the install, including consultation, installation, products would normally have been in the region of £50,000 for an end-user price.

Together for Cinema 01372 454 366, togetherforcinema.com

Parasound catches a Fish

Rock star Fish is endorsing the Parasound Halo integrated amplifier

Well-known rock star and platinum-selling artist, Fish, is endorsing the multi award-winning Parasound Halo integrated amplifier. The company says his choice will ensure the accurate monitoring of his studio recordings prior to release, providing an authentic playback experience for the fans at home.

Derek Dick, otherwise known as Fish, is a successful solo artist and the former Marillion frontman and lyricist who fronted the band from 1981 to 1988. Fish has chosen Parasound’s well-reviewed Halo Integrated amplifier for the main audio system in his home and studio, located close to Edinburgh. The integration of Parasound amplification will enable Fish and his band members to record the upcoming album, Weltschmerz, in their dedicated studio facility and carefully monitor the results before commercial pressings are made.

The maker says the Parasound Halo Integrated amp has been designed to bring the audio benefits of the Halo range, as used in some of the top recording studios in the world, to a one box solution.

With its high-resolution ESS Sabre32 Reference DSD capable DAC; MM/MC phono stage; balanced XLRs; analogue bass management; and 160W per channel of John Curl designed amplifier topology, Parasound says the Halo Integrated provides flawless reproduction of the highest resolution digital and analogue audio.

UK Parasound distributor, Connected Distribution, installed the amplifier in Fish’s premises in conjunction with Doncaster based Parasound retailer, Audio Elevation.

Fish says, “I have been listening extensively to the Parasound Halo amplifier ever since it was installed and am blown away by its combination of accuracy and musicality. I am under no illusion that it is going to contribute hugely to the creation of my next studio album and can’t wait to hear the results as we start the recording process.”

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Connected Distribution 01242 511 133, connecteddistribution.com

May 9-10 2018. Free registration – essentialinstalllive.com News.indd 9

February 2018 | 9 23/02/2018 10:11

Roam seamlessly between multiple access points XWS-1810 Wireless Controller Kit • Roaming solved between access points with RoamAssist™ • Simple central control and configuration of up to 16 Luxul access points • Dual Band access points

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Essential Install | News

New this year is the Master Technology Architect courses for designers

SCP Crestron announces details for masters 2018 Crestron has announced details for Masters 2018, an event for the AV industry’s premier programmers, scheduled to take place April 10-12 in the US and May 15-17 in Europe. The Crestron Masters is an exclusive, by-invitation-only conference that offers Crestron Certified Programmers the opportunity to stay on top of the latest Crestron technology and industry best practices through a wide array of training classes, while networking and sharing knowledge with peers.

“It’s a constant challenge to stay current with the rapidly changing technology in our industry, and to truly master system design and programming. These elite programmers take time out of their busy schedules to attend Masters to do just that. They’re the most dedicated and driven members of our industry,” said Fred Bargetzi, Crestron CTO. With nearly 800 premier Crestron programmers filling 35 training classes in more than 94 sessions, and taking in networking events and entertainment, Masters 2017 was a great success and Crestron promises that Masters 2018 will be even bigger and better.

With many courses to choose from, participants can focus on their particular areas of interest. The complete course schedule and descriptions will be available during the registration process. New this year is Master Technology Architect (MTA) courses for designers.

Architects can choose from any of the MTA courses. Masters 2018 will feature expanded sessions, more presenters and Crestron engineers in attendance, and a knowledge level assigned to each course.

Crestron 0845 873 8787, crestron.com/masters

Essential people

Ben Lancaster

John Watts

Simon Walker

James Parker

Samuel Ralfe

Nico Koets

Pulse Cinemas has announced that Ben Lancaster will be joining the team as UK sales development manager. Ben has extensive knowledge in the custom install arena, after working with companies including Grahams Hi-Fi, Invision and, most recently, working as Trinnov’s international sales manager.

Midwich has appointed James Parker as head of European operations. With 17 years’ distribution experience, James has a diverse background within operations and business improvement. James’ role will predominantly focus on pre-acquisition due diligence, postacquisition company integrations, and group wide infrastructure projects.

AV collaboration and control company Atlona has appointed John Watts as the company’s new regional sales manager, commercial, effective immediately. John will use his lifelong professional experience and personal interest in all things AV to provide product and design information, sales customisation/execution, and postsales support to Atlona customers and distributors in the US. PMC is expanding its marketing department with the appointment of Samuel Ralfe as marketing executive, to help develop the marketing support function to its UK retailers and overseas distributors. Sam’s role will be to work within the marketing department, to support the PMC brand at shows, exhibitions and events across the world.

Crestron is delighted to announce the appointment of Simon Walker as business development UK, residential. With immediate effect, Simon will be joining the residential sales team in the UK to implement Crestron’s EMEA growth plans for the residential marketplace.

B-Tech AV Mounts has strengthened their growing European sales team with the appointment of Nico Koets. Nico will be building brand and product awareness as well as increasing sales throughout the Benelux region.

May 9-10 2018. Free registration – essentialinstalllive.com News.indd 11

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COMPLIANT

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Essential Install | OneAV

NEEO chooses OneAV as distribution partner

NEEO is pleased to announce a partnership with OneAV as the exclusive trade and pro distributor for NEEO products in the UK and Germany. The highly anticipated revolutionary Remote, home automation hub, the Brain, and Combo packages are available immediately to OneAV trade account holders.

NEEO’s funding was crowd sourced through the Kickstarter website

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Founded in early 2014, NEEO is a relatively new startup company, crowd sourced through the Kickstarter website. The company is based in Cupertino, California, where the terrific tech team have produced clever products for the home automation and smart control market. This includes a remote-cum-interface that can monitor and control audio, lighting, HVAC, as well as regular television commands.

Cleverly connecting to the Remote, or the NEEO app, is the Brain, a home automation platform that wirelessly controls various devices in the home. Pre-set scenes, known as functions, can be easily created and activated at a specific time, by motion sensors, or by using the interface and buttons. It’s all rather smart.

NEEO will feature on the OneAV stand (37-42) at EI Live!, at Sandown Park in Surrey on May 9-10, 2018.

Founder Raphael Oberholzer and NEEO technical staff will be on hand to answer any queries and explain how the technology works, how to install to the products and how they can be beneficial to an installer’s business. They will be showcasing the products with a number of live demos and integration setup examples. NEEO’s most recent software update brings a whole host of integrator friendly improvements to the smart home control platform, and these will be discussed at the tradeshow.

New for the partnership, NEEO will have a home for the ISE show in 2019 on the OneAV booth in Hall 1, with a much more dynamic and interactive space than it has previously held. The alliance of these two companies will allow NEEO to expand its offering and really help integrators get to grips with the tech.

Enthusing about the partnership, NEEO’s co-founder and CEO Raphael Oberholzer says, “We love working with OneAV, they’re going to provide a really nice service to trade professionals who want to provide NEEO as part of their smart home installs.” With offices, training and fulfilment centres in Germany, the Netherlands and the UK, OneAV provides localised marketing, education, and support for all its stocked brands. OneAV prides itself on

being able to provide high quality solutions for any AV project, backed up with first-class technical knowledge and support.

In turn, OneAV sales director, James Trumper, is thrilled with the partnership. “What’s not to love about NEEO!?” he exclaims. “It’s the most desirable remote control on the market and we’re so excited to be able to supply this incredible product to our marketplace.”

NEEO neeo.com OneAV 01684 576 348, oneav.co.uk

May 9-10 2018. Free registration – essentialinstalllive.com 26/02/2018 14:10

Become a

M H UB Whole-home AV with app & voice control, now a standard feature on every MHUB.

uControl

MHUB starting at £999 RRP

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Essential Install | CEDIA

How to create a professional cinema in a residential property There’s nothing better than a super-sized cinema screen to rally the family together. Forget about enjoying dinner around the kitchen table, familial bonding increasingly takes place in front of a huge screen in a dedicated media room. In the first of this two part series, Mark Withers, senior designer at CEDIA member company, Cornflake, gives his top tips for cocooning yourself in style.

A savvy shopper should be able to get a great home cinema for £7,500

To create the right mood, Cornflake recommend layering lighting with two or more circuits

Cinema rooms, crammed with the latest kit and acoustic panelling, have become a standard feature of new, luxury developments, but media rooms really don’t have to be flash or expensive to pull together. Alternative set-ups are being created in spare rooms, garages, and attics. Whilst many are great DIY projects, less technically-able or timestarved homeowners will always prefer to engage the services of professionals to set up their private cinemas.

How far they wish to take such a project will most likely depend on personal taste, budget and demands on the room. In one of London’s most desirable districts, Cornflake recently pushed the trend to the limit and built the first in-house IMAX cinema in Europe, digging two storeys below ground to accommodate the three tier, 15 seat movie theatre. The set-up features a 18ft wide screen, two projectors to provide the immersive 3D experience, and 16 speakers. It’s exactly the same spec as a commercial IMAX cinema and cost the owner a cool £1 million.

Clearly, this spec and investment is beyond the budget of ordinary homeowners, although property developers in London’s super prime locations often get close. A savvy shopper should be able to put together a great home cinema for around £7,500. Projectors and screens for domestic use start at about £3,000 for both, amplifiers from £1,250, and speakers from £250. Connecting Sky, Xbox, Apple TV, or a DVD player is a relatively low cost.

The best starting advice for clients, as when choosing an expensive motor vehicle, must always be “try before you

buy”, to gauge the difference between the various systems.

When you consider how many hours we spend in front of our screens each month, it’s worth doing careful research to find the best products to create a room that’s so immersive, you’ll never want to visit the local multiplex again.

There’s more to an in-house movie theatre than just the technical kit though. The key is striking the right balance between a room the kids enjoy and one that the grownups can relax in too.

To create the right mood, we recommend layering lighting with two or more circuits. A sawtooth or coffered ceiling is a useful design option. Not only will this improve the acoustics by staggering the flat surface or breaking it up with differing ceiling heights around the perimeter, it also creates a useful void for adding one, two, or even three layers of lighting. Layered lighting cannot be over sold.

Other lighting tips include keeping light sources away from the screen and ensuring lamps are not directly in the eyeline of anyone in the audience. Ideally no lenses should be shining in their faces or be positioned directly overhead. Aim instead to reflect light off side walls and use multiple circuits to gently build up the lighting across the room. Layering makes it far easier to control the level of light and provides the ability to create clever effects when the cinema is in use too.

Whether you are cladding the room with simple, absorbent foam panels or planning a fully mapped out room with advanced diffusers and scatter panels hidden behind a fabric wall surface, your mission is to maximise the acoustic performance of the AV system. A low-mid range cinematic system in a fully treated room will often sound better than a top-of-the-range set-up in a room without treatment, so aim to balance your expenditure wisely between the AV kit and the prepping of the room.

Acoustic Sound Insulation is critical for residences where quiet spaces, such as bedrooms, may be in proximity to the cinema and you don’t want to disturb the occupants with blockbuster reverberations. Insulation keeps high sound pressure levels within the room and also blocks unwanted external noise. The optimal solution is to build a room-within-a-room, fully suspended in hangars, to fully isolate reverberation within the void and stop it passing through the structure of the building.

Be sure to check out next month’s issue of Essential Install magazine for part two and discover more top tips on creating a professional home cinema in a residential property.

Cornflake, 0207 323 4554, cornflake.co.uk CEDIA 01480 213 744, cedia.co.uk

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May 9-10 2018. Free registration – essentialinstalllive.com 27/02/2018 11:17

CAVD Nakymatone ad Jan 18.qxp_Layout 1 22/02/2018 11:35 Page 1

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Essential Install | Case Study: D-Tools

The right D-Tools for the job

As the smart home industry becomes increasingly competitive, the most successful integrators carve out a specialised niche. London based home technology consultancy, design and delivery service Inspired Dwellings has made its name by serving the high-end residential and commercial industries. It says its install team relies on D-Tools through every phase of every project to minimise errors, track and maximise profitability, and ensure client satisfaction.

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May 9-10 2018. Free registration – essentialinstalllive.com 27/02/2018 11:18

Essential Install | Case Study: D-Tools

A family in Kent recently called on Inspired Dwellings to integrate the AV, data, lighting, heating and CCTV systems throughout their new luxury property. As it was a new construction project, the installers had the benefit of working within the builder’s schedule to run wiring in open walls, achieve optimal speaker placement, and install understated touchscreens throughout the home to access the Control4 automation system.

“The basis for this project was to have an integrated home system that was easy for the whole family to use,” says Rob Sutherland, managing director for Inspired Dwellings. “Utilising D-Tools extensive product library, our design team worked tirelessly to ensure that we had all the most up to date technology, while the AV equipment was put together and tested offsite in our workshop.”

The project was nominated as a finalist in the 2017 CEDIA Awards and was recently named Best Residential Project in the D-Tools Design Awards for 2017.

The lavish 12,000sqft home, which opens to a spacious foyer with a spiral staircase, includes a 14 seat home theatre with three rows of chairs from Fortress Seating on risers for optimal sightlines, a JVC DLA-X500R 4K projector, and a 130in Screen Research screen.

All 14 rooms in the home feature distributed audio, while a family room boasts a 55in TV and surround sound system. Inspired Dwellings provided HDMI video distribution throughout the home and a Rako lighting system. An equipment closet houses a Middle Atlantic rack with a Control4 control system, Apple TVs, a Sonos Zoneplayer, and centralised video sources including Blu-ray players and satellite set top boxes.

The data infrastructure had to have enough bandwidth to accommodate all the smart devices on the network, and a CCTV security system that spans the property, indoors and out.

The family embraces technology in every aspect of their lives but didn’t want it to distract from the home’s beauty. Touch panels sit unobtrusively on walls in common areas and bedrooms, but family members can also control the home’s systems through apps on their iPads and smartphones.

“Using D-Tools drawing capabilities we created cable schedules, plans, elevations, schematics and project information sheets using the information in the database,” says Rob. “This not only saved us time, but ensured that the data is correct and to the specification that the sales rep and client agreed upon. As our team started to work on this project, it was easy to locate products, rooms or systems that they were working on.”

Inspired Dwellings 020 7736 6007, inspireddwellings.com

May 9-10 2018. Free registration – essentialinstalllive.com Case Study – D-Tools.indd 17

February 2018 | 17 27/02/2018 11:18

Essential Install | CE Pro Europe

CE Pro AV

CE Pro SMART HOME

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EUROPE

FEATURES

COMMERCIAL

@CEProEurope

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Essential Install Magazine is jam-packed with everything you need to know about the custom install industry, but did you know there’s a place you can go online to get even more? CE Pro Europe is brought to you by the same people behind EI and offers breaking news, exclusive case studies, and comprehensive coverage of EUROPE some of the biggest events that affect our industry.

CE Pro

This month on CE Pro Europe we saw Apple launch its very own smart speaker, but can the Apple HomePod really contend with more established players like the Amazon Echo or Google Home?

HomePod invasion

Thanks to the success of the Amazon Echo and the Google Home, it had long been expected that Apple would eventually try to launch its own smart speaker. After countless rumours, the company finally confirmed those suspicions in June 2017 and announced the HomePod. Apple positioned the HomePod above the Amazon Echo and Google Home, and considered it the ultimate smart speaker for audiophiles. Unfortunately, it seems Apple paid too much attention to the acoustics, and forgot what a smart speaker was really meant to be about – as the company made the decision to use Siri as the basis for the HomePod. Siri is one of the oldest smart assistants available to consumers, although it has been unable to keep up with the competition in recent years. It can only control smart home devices that are HomeKit-enabled, and anyone asking it a mildly difficult question will find themselves without an answer. In terms of smarts, Siri is significantly behind the likes of Alexa and the Google Assistant.

So, can the HomePod really compete? To answer that question, it would entirely depend on what consumers want from their smart speakers. Do they want it to be smart first and a speaker second, or do they want a speaker first and smart second? If they want the former, then an Amazon Echo or Google Home will be the best option – they’re okay speakers, but they’re extremely smart. If it’s the latter, well that’s where things get a bit interesting…

The Apple HomePod is one of the best sounding smart speakers money can buy. It’s better than the Sonos One

and about on-par with the Google Home Max, depending on who you ask. It really is the go-to choice for audiophiles searching for a smart speaker – it’s crisp, it’s clean, and it’s almost a perfect speaker. The problem is that outside of acoustics, the HomePod is inherently flawed.

Spotify users will absolutely despise the HomePod’s lack of support for any music streaming service other than Apple Music, and anyone without an iPhone won’t even be able to set the speaker up. Pair that with the fact that the HomePod is one of the most expensive smart speakers on the market, is powered by Siri, and is currently incapable of multi-room streaming, then it almost doesn’t seem like it’s worth the money. There have been numerous reports in recent weeks of the HomePod leaving unwanted marks on wood furniture. Apple’s response to this problem is that users simply need to ‘oil their wood’. That’s obviously left some users irked by the fact their HomePod speaker could potentially damage an expensive piece of furniture, with Apple not taking much responsibility. Unfortunately, before getting out the pitch forks, this isn’t a problem exclusive to the HomePod; the Sonos One and Google Home Max have also suffered from this issue.

That being said, the HomePod could be ideal for someone who is okay with not having the smartest speaker on the market, and is happy to be inside Apple’s wall garden. That means those with an iPhone, iPad, Apple Watch, and a subscription to Apple Music, will likely be content with the HomePod. For everyone else, there are better options. Those wanting a good sounding speaker that won’t break the bank will find solace in the Sonos One. It currently supports Amazon’s vastly-smarter Alexa voice assistant, and will soon gain support for the Google Assistant. The Google Home Max is another good option, although it’s more expensive than the HomePod and not yet available in the UK.

The top five: Here are the five most popular stories from the month of February.

Panasonic launches first 4K Blu-ray player with HDR10+

This 4K Blu-ray player is the first to utilise Samsung’s HDR format, although Panasonic is keen to hedge its bets by supporting Dolby Vision too.

18 | February 2018 CEPro.indd 18

ISE attracts record visitors amid relocation rumours

Once again ISE saw a record number of visitors filter through its doors at the RAI in Amsterdam, but could the show be on the move in 2020?

Loewe Opts For Pulse Cinemas

There’s been a change in distributors for Loewe and its range of high-end TVs, with the company switching from AWE to Pulse Cinemas.

Control4 Affordable Home Automation Hub The DIY smart home market continues to grow, and now one of custom install industry’s largest manufacturers is going ‘mainstream’ with a new home automation hub.

Vintage Speakers Learn New Tricks

Bang & Olufsen is breathing new life into often forgotten products, with its DSP board enabling users to bring wireless connectivity to speakers from a bygone era.

May 9-10 2018. Free registration – essentialinstalllive.com 27/02/2018 11:19

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Both HDMI inputs can be scaled up to 4K/30Hz from both HDBT and HDMI outputs, balanced audio enables connection to a local audio system and CEC power triggers to compatible screens allow them to be turned on or off by auto-detecting source status.

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21/02/2018 13:27

Essential Install | Case Study: Artcoustic

Best Home Cinema Level II: The Pyramid Group

Winning works

Each year, the standard of projects entering the CEDIA Awards continues to rise, with more beautiful and striking designs and clever automation solutions on display. In 2017 seven winning and shortlisted projects featured Artcoustic loudspeakers. EI turns a spotlight on the various projects, finding that technical detail, innovative design and quality sounding products are key to award-winning success.

Winners BEST HOME CINEMA LEVEL I: £40,000 & UNDER INSTALLER: Philharmonic AV

Best Home Cinema Level I: Philharmonic AV

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Philharmonic AV created a superb home cinema for a young family who wanted a dual use area to be enjoyed for family film nights, as well as by the client and his friends for big rugby matches.

Artcoustic speakers were used throughout the Dolby Atmos 7.2.4 system. Spitfire 4-2s were used for the LCR, and Architect SL 2-1s for the listener level surrounds and overheads.

The Spitfire 4-2 is Artcoustic’s entry level cinema speaker, capable of 115dB output, with a sensitivity of 95dB. This makes them easy to drive, and offers a strong option for systems where the budget is lower.

The Architect Series is used in both the ceiling and the walls for this installation. This series offers the same tonality and timbre as the rest of the Artcoustic range, but with a different installation option. The Architect 2-1s (used here) are often installed in ceilings, but can also be installed into walls to reduce the depth that would usually be required when using the Target SL – it’s on-wall equivalent.

BEST HOME CINEMA LEVEL II: £40,000 - £120,000 INSTALLER: The Pyramid Group

This impressive system features Artcoustic Spitfire 8-4 and 6-3 speakers, together with Architect SL 2-1 and Spitfire Control 2 subwoofers in a Dolby Atmos 9.2.6 system.

The Pyramid Group was involved in this collaboration from the onset, before the commencement of the build, to discuss how the client could integrate a cinema into their home. The audio in this room has been perfectly balanced, with the speakers blending into one cohesive sound field, with a very tight and accurate bass, and the system headroom creating the necessary dynamics that the environment needed.

The technical detail and precision that went into the design of this room has well and truly been rewarded, through winning this CEDIA Award.

BEST INTEGRATED HOME LEVEL III: £240,000 – £360,000 INSTALLER: Clearly Automated

The system in this 12,000sqft property was designed by Clearly Automated, and includes everything from lighting control, internal and gate intercom, gate control and CCTV integration to AV and dedicated cinema room, all controlled from a bespoke and simple integration system.

A fixed acoustically transparent screen was specified for the home cinema to allow the Artcoustic Spitfire LCR channels to be hidden behind.

May 9-10 2018. Free registration – essentialinstalllive.com 23/02/2018 10:18

Essential Install | Artcoustic

Finalists

“Artcoustic are very proud to have been chosen as the speaker brand for these incredible projects. Each of these is very deserving of all the accolades received.

We have been to each of these projects, and helped extensively with the specification, design, calibration and photography.

These all look and sound amazing, and crucially, we all have very happy clients with superb cinemas for them to enjoy with friends and family.

Once again, we’d like to congratulate each of these installation companies for their superb work, and thank them for their support and trust in Artcoustic. Looking forward to the 2018 awards already!”

Paul Cummin, Artcoustic UK

BEST HOME CINEMA LEVEL II: £40,000 – £120,000 INSTALLER: Bespoke Home Cinemas

BEST HOME CINEMA LEVEL II: £40,000 – £120,000 INSTALLER: Smartcomm

The team at Bespoke Home Cinemas designed and created the entire room, building every element themselves. The team suggested a ‘floating room within a room’ be created because the original size of the room would be the same size as a small multiplex.

Artcoustic Spitfire 16-8 speakers were installed behind the acoustically transparent screen, along with 2 x Spitfire Control 3 subwoofers. 40-30 SL 4-2s make up the sides and rears, with Architect SL 4-2s overhead for the 7.2.4 Dolby Atmos set up.

The developer of this luxury apartment complex wanted residents to have access to a home cinema that was technically excellent, but also stylish, opulent and chic, to attract potential buyers.

Artcoustic Spitfire speakers are used throughout this stunning system, with Spitfire 8-4s installed behind the screen as LCR, together with two Spitfire Control 2 subwoofers. Target SLs and Architect SL 2-1 make up the rear, side and overhead speakers for a full 7.1.4 Dolby Atmos experience.

BEST HOME CINEMA LEVEL II: £40,000 – £120,000 INSTALLER: New Wave AV

BEST INTEGRATED HOME LEVEL III: £240,000 – £360,000 INSTALLER: Smartcomm

New Wave AV was a runner up with this accomplished private cinema, forming part of the client’s games and entertainment area. The client brief was for a state-of-the-art cinema meant for film viewing within a completely open plan space.

The cinema sounds as good as it looks with Spitfire 16-8 speakers used for LCR, and no less than four Spitfire Control 2 subwoofers used, two at the front of the cinema, two at the back. Artcoustic Spitfire 4-2, Multi SoundBar SLs installed vertically, and Architect SL 4-2 overhead make up the rest of this stunning Dolby Atmos 7.4.4 system.

May 9-10 2018. Free registration – essentialinstalllive.com Case Study- Artcoustic.indd 21

The owners of this five bedroom residence required a home cinema, as well as AV, lighting and home automation for the rest of the house, which included a games room, family room, 25m swimming pool, home gym and large garage.

The open entertainment space which includes a (wellstocked) bar with TVs and a pool table also features an accompanying cinema which uses Artcoustic Spitfire 168s for LCR, together with two Spitfire Control 3 subs, and Architect SL 4-2s in the ceiling for the rears.

February 2018 | 21 23/02/2018 10:19

Image: CC BY-SA 3.0

Essential Install | CEDIA Interview

Taking care of business

Tabatha O’Connor, CEDIA’s new global president and CEO, talks to EI’s editor Niamh Marriott about her plans for the association, her opinions on tech trends, and how best to forge a successful career within our ever-changing industry.

Congratulations on your appointment!

Tell me a little about yourself.

I joined the CEDIA team in 2002 and I have led multiple departments over my tenure, including membership, finance, human resources, operations, and volunteer development. In 2015, I was promoted to COO, a role that provided an opportunity to create structures and processes to manage CEDIA’s activities. I have been the lead on some of CEDIA’s largest endeavours, including the global alignment, the sale of the CEDIA show, and the building of our new headquarters. Being promoted to the position of global president and CEO is a great honour and one that I feel incredibly prepared for — not only do I have a deep understanding of CEDIA, but my background prior to joining the team is in association management.

Why do you like about our industry and what have you noted as its disadvantages?

CEDIA Interview.indd 22

At ISE we announced our new three year strategic plan, so our outlook for the future is incredibly clear.

Our overarching aims over the next three years are for significant advances and leadership in three areas: 1) education, 2) deeper engagement and partnership with the design and build community, and 3) increasing professionalism through standards, guidelines, and best practices. We are incredibly excited about the future and look forward to sharing our progress and success.

What is your favourite current technology and why?

I bought a VR headset around the holidays and it has been so fun to play around with. The advances in VR, AR, as well as voice control, are so exciting and are becoming more and more accessible.

There are countless things I love about working in this industry — it is never boring. We have a front row seat to the awe-inspiring innovation that is making people’s lives at home entertaining, fun, safe, and energy efficient.

If there is one disadvantage, it might be the rate at which things change and evolve which is really a double-edged sword. It exciting to see all the advances in technology, but it can make it difficult to stay ahead of the curve.

What advice would you give to women in the industry?

Why work for CEDIA? What the benefits of such an association?

I am constantly blown away by the community in our industry — it really is like no other. So, if you are just getting into this career path, my biggest piece of advice is to get involved. CEDIA has a variety of tools to help you plug into the fantastic global member base, from the online community to CEDIA groups, to in-person training and networking events. There is the opportunity to mix and mingle around every corner. You’ll meet some of the most genuine, passionate, and helpful people if you just invest the time.

My true passion is association management. Working together to build the industry and provide members the tools they need to grow is what drives me. When I started at CEDIA in 2002, I was amazed at how our members rally around the common cause of making things better — not only for themselves, but for the overall good of the channel. The sense of community is unlike anything I’ve ever experienced, and it is inspiring.

22 | February 2018

What are your plans for the future of CEDIA?

Don’t be discouraged or intimidated by the fact that this industry tends to be male dominated. The industry needs everyone’s unique contributions and expertise — so get involved and let your voice be heard.

What advice would you give to a young person starting out in the industry?

May 9-10 2018. Free registration – essentialinstalllive.com 27/02/2018 11:39

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Essential Install | Habitech

The burning question: are you legal?

Play it safe by using CPR certified wire.

Habitech is offering over 30 SCP designs: the widest range of CPR approved CI cables currently available.

24 | February 2018 Habitech.indd 24

A piece of EU legislation governing cable fire safety came into force July 2017. If you missed it, you may well be breaking the law.

Habitech’s Jonathan Pengilley explains the latest CPR rules, and offers multiple ways to fireproof your business.

Let’s play consequences. You’ve just installed an exclusive boutique restaurant with great sound when the nice people from Health and Safety turn up to check the wiring. They ask, ‘where’s the DoP certificate?’ You retort, ‘what’s a DoP certificate?’ The consequence is disaster for your business, because you’ll be ripping out the cable that saved you pennies, but which ultimately wrecked your profitability, and cost your reputation a fortune.

If only you’d discovered the Construction Products Regulation (CPR) standard EN50575 before first fix.

No doubt you’re already across the subtleties of this complex initiative designed to raise, standardise and

enforce cable fire safety rules in all EU buildings, but if it comes as a surprise then it really is time you took notice, because CPR (EN50575) became mandatory in July 2017.

Part of a raft of new EU legislation covering safety issues as diverse as wind-load performance for external blinds and awnings, balustrade and railing kits, and crosslaminated timber products, CPR (EN50575) demands that all permanently installed power, telecommunications, data and control cables be tested and certified for compliance with a uniform flammability classification. The old flame retardant, non-corrosive and low-smoke/zero-halogen (LSZH) standards have been superseded.

May 9-10 2018. Free registration – essentialinstalllive.com 25/02/2018 11:52

Essential Install | Habitech

Euroclass categories are broadly defined according to building type and usage: the larger and more public the building, the ‘higher’ the class

Safety first!

This means that manufacturers selling wire to the EU must first seek a Declaration of Performance (DoP) certificate for each cable from a testing authority, and acknowledge its CPR compliance with a ‘CE’ label on the drum. Those installing the wire in the EU are obliged, by law, to use the correct CPR-rated cable. Whether you’re an electrician pulling mains power through commercial or residential buildings or a low voltage network practitioner, ignorance of the law is no defence, and they’ll have you up in front of the beak faster than you can say ‘liability’ if the cable you installed contributed to a conflagration because it wasn’t CPR approved.

Make sure you’re legal

So how do you identify the correct CPR cable for the job?

As the legislation beds-in, you can expect building regs for public spaces in particular to do it for you (Transport for London is already on the case). If they don’t, insist on a spec before you touch the project, and get it in black and white. For resi, choose the best CPR cable within budget, but always look for CPR compliance.

Euroclass anatomy

There are four new ‘Euroclass’ categories that apply directly to low voltage cables: B2ca, Cca, Dca, and Eca in ascending order of flammability – B2ca being the least flammable and intended for high-rise Multiple Dwelling Units, airports, arenas and large public buildings; Cca for hospitals, schools and large commercial projects, and Dca/Eca for small commercial, bars, hotels and residential.

Just to make it more complicated, there are three further performance sub-categories covering smoke production (classified s1 to s3 where s1 is the most demanding); flaming droplets (d0 to d2 where d0 is the most demanding); and acidity (a1 to a3 where a1 is most demanding). Marked on each CPR cable jacket and on the drum’s CE label, a full EuroClass designation (class + smoke + acidity + droplets) would, for example, look like this: Dca-s3,d2,a3. CPR EuroClasses can be substituted from higher to lower only, so if you’re working in resi, make Dca your standard if possible.

Look out for the CPR code on the cable Euroclass category first; smoke, droplets and acidity second

May 9-10 2018. Free registration – essentialinstalllive.com Habitech.indd 25

Any caveats?

Unsurprisingly, given its wholesale complexity, there are omissions and loopholes in the rollout of CPR legislation. For instance, it doesn’t apply to patch cords and interconnect cables such as HDMI, and direct burial cables, nor does it cover cable products manufactured and made available before July 1 2017, in order to manage an orderly run-down of legacy stocks. What’s more, although all EU member states and/or CE adopters are required to follow CPR, each EU member state gets to decide which EuroClasses to adopt for their specific construction standards and regulations.

Whereas France insists on a minimum Dca standard, Germany specifies according to building type: high-rise being Cca (with Bca in fire escapes) and Eca permitted only for isolated buildings in low population areas.

Sweden on the other hand includes the presence of fire suppression systems in its calculations, and in Holland it’s Dca minimum in bundles, and B2ca and Cca in high occupancy buildings.

CPR in the UK

Amid the confusion of Brexit, UK guidelines are a little hazier, but it’s a safe bet that Dca and Eca will be permissible only for residential and standard commercial properties, and Cca for fire escape routes. As a general rule, hospitals, schools and most public buildings will always have higher EuroClass requirements: check the fine print. Reading around the subject, the consensus is that Brexit is unlikely to affect CPR implementation.

So the stark reality is this: when pre-July 17 stocks are finally exhausted, every drum of cable sitting in a disti’s warehouse or an installer’s truck will need to be CPR compliant.

And this is where we come in. Notwithstanding all other transgressions, your reputation and liberty are secured by the largest range of CPR-certified cables currently available to CI integrators: over 30 SCP designs for audio, control and data, ready to order from Habitech today. They may be a little more expensive in some cases, but for enhanced quality and performance, the chance to squeeze all those dodgy knock-off cables into oblivion, and against the costs of litigation, they’re priceless! Keep cool, act now: search SCP on our website and look for the CPR logo.

Habitech 01256 638 500, habitech.co.uk

February 2018 | 25 25/02/2018 11:53

Essential Install | EI Live!

A night to remember…

Held in the Equus Suite at Sandown Park, this year’s Smart Building Awards will be nothing short of revolutionary. Bringing back the full Gala Dinner programme, the SBA’s is gearing up to knock your smart home socks off; providing fantastic networking opportunities, great food and drink, amazing entertainment, and, of course, the 2018 Awards presentation.

Taking place on the eve of May 9, 2018, after enjoying the first day of EI Live!, the Smart Building Awards Gala Dinner serves up a chance to mingle with the most pre-eminent players the industry has to offer. Guests will also get the opportunity to see who will rise to the top when the winners of this years’ categories are announced.

Following a hugely successful awards ceremony last year, the 2018 Smart building Awards are back and set to be the best yet. This year’s winners will all represent the greatest the industry has to offer, whether that be for a new innovative product, idea/concept, or, there’s been a particular member of the team that goes above and beyond.

Categories Product categories • Projector screen of the year • Projector of the year • Bracket/rack or mounting product of the year • Loudspeaker of the year • Cable solution of the year • Matrix/signal distribution product of the year

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• Multi-room/zone music solution of the year • Dedicated touchscreen of the year • TV/Display of the year (conventional) • Integrated TV/display of the year

Project categories

Company Categories

• Best cinema project • Best commercial integration project • Best whole house project • Multi-dwelling unit (MDU) project of the year

• Distributor of the year • Manufacturer of the year •T raining initiative of the year

People categories • Sales person of the year • Special recognition award

May 9-10 2018. Free registration – essentialinstalllive.com 23/02/2018 12:49

Essential Install | EI Live!

5 Top Tips for entrants

5 reasons to attend the dinner

Thinking about entering? Well, in order to make the cut, every would-be winner will need to make sure they stand out from the crowd. So, here’s some top tips from the judges themselves:

Network over a sumptuous three course dinner with preeminent industry players – Ensure you get the most from the event by building new relationships and cementing old ones! Mingle and meet other guests, giving yourself the best opportunity to get in front of key players.

• Explain what is really unique about your approach, ‘me too’ products and services rarely win • Humanise your entry. We want to know about the technology, but, also, what difference does it or has it made? Have you go real-world examples?

• High resolution photography is vital, both for judging and for future PR opportunities • Engineering drawings, calculations and system specifications we want entrants to demonstrate the technical excellence of the project • Provide a concise system description detailing what makes the project distinctive, and how it met the needs of your client

There is still time to enter the awards and the deadline is looming. Make sure to get your submissions in by March 16 2018.

8

Treat your team to an evening to celebrate achievements – Not only is this event brilliant to attend for yourself, but if you have a team you’re particularly proud of this year, why not bring them along and show them how much you appreciate their hard work?

Applaud and recognise industry legends and future talent – As well as the stalwart members of the industry, we will look to honour the rising stars within the sector, looking at how these individuals are helping to improve and encourage new and innovative movements within the business.

Find motivation for the next 12 months – The evening, whether you’re shortlisted or not, is a brilliant one. If you’re attending just to say thanks to a few members of your team, or, even for your own achievements; it can be a great way to show them where their hard work can lead!

Increased credibility – A business award win, short-listing or nomination can act as a third-party endorsement for your business. A win can give a seal of approval to your activities and is a sign of quality for potential customers, so can form part of your sales pitch. It can also help supplier relationships.

It’s a great way of differentiating your company from competitors and will send out positive signals to customers.

PRESENTED BY ESSENTIAL INSTALL MAGAZINE

“You’ll already know when a project, product or even your team is really special – so when it happens, stand proud and enter the Smart Building Awards! Everyone likes buying from award winners.

Take a tip from Simon Sinek and start with why. Why did you do it this way? Why is it so good?”

Owen Maddock, Connected Works

May 9-10 2018. Free registration – essentialinstalllive.com EI Live!.indd 27

February 2018 | 27 23/02/2018 12:49

image courtesy of www.realmcontrol.com

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Essential Install | Training

Alltrade training has undergone some serious expansion

Knowledge is power

An investment in knowledge will pay the best interest, Benjamin Franklin once remarked. With that rather poignant quote in mind, EI presents just a few of the training options open to installers to keep those wits sharp and skills keen.

Install company, Clever Association’s Jenny Huddleston talks to EI about the benefits of in-house training. “We all know that our industry moves along at quite a pace, to ensure we give our customers the best performing solutions we need to keep up with those technological advances.

“Although it’s sometimes tricky to put time aside for training, we find that manufacturers and distributors are increasingly willing to offer courses here at our premises, so that the impact to us is minimised.”

Jenny adds, “We’ve had in-house training from both Crestron and WyreStorm recently, and our design team are getting involved with the cinema design related webinars offered by Genesis Technologies.

Even though our engineers know their way around the equipment we use, we all have different skills and specialist knowledge too.

“We encourage our engineers and design team members to share their knowledge with the team via workshop sessions. Some examples we’ve done include an in-depth look at network configuration and also audio signals, how loudspeakers and amplifiers work and what we can do to ensure best audio performance.”

Offering training to installers has been fundamental to the continued success of distributor Alltrade. A distributor

May 9-10 2018. Free registration – essentialinstalllive.com Training.indd 29

of signal reception and distribution equipment, the company now boasts a dedicated CI division, backed by what the company says is the UK’s widest geographical spread of installer training facilities.

With training facilities in all five of its existing trade counters, the company is opening two new trade counters in 2018, in Reading and Bolton. With training rooms and equipment, the new branches will extend Alltrade’s local training facilities to installers along the M4 corridor and across the North-West.

Alltrade’s existing trade counters are located in Brighton & Hove, Cardiff, Hemel Hempstead, Maidstone, and Bournemouth and each site offers face-to-face expert advice and a dedicated training room.

A packed diary of seminars and hands-on practical installer training is available at each branch, covering topics as diverse as Sonos to home automation with HDL, and Ubiquiti’s managed Wi-Fi networking to CCTV installation.

With training sessions being handled by both Alltrade’s own experts and guest manufacturers, there is always a new topic or new product to learn about and installers can go to their local trade counter, the Alltrade website or EI magazine for more information on the training available.

February 2018 | 29 27/02/2018 11:19

Essential Install | Training

Ron Rouse, VP of sales at speaker specialist, Wisdom Audio, says, “Training is key to success, and Wisdom Audio is committed to supporting our dealers with hands-on, in-person education that allows them to make the most of their specification and installation process. Throughout each year, Wisdom offers Dealer Trainer Academy sessions at our US headquarters in Carson City, Nevada.”

Those not able to travel to the US are catered for on a region by region basis as UK distributor Habitech offers two levels of Wisdom dealer qualification. Wisdom approved dealers are authorised to use the Wisdom logo for sales and marketing purposes, but with access to the Insight Series only. To qualify installers must complete the one day Wisdom training course and commit to maintaining minimum annual purchases of Insight products.

Wisdom Partners have access to the whole range: Insight, Sage & Wisdom Series. Authorised to use Wisdom’s partner logo, all Wisdom’s marketing materials and its cinema design service, partners complete the Wisdom one day training course and maintain minimum annual purchases of Wisdom products to retain Partner status. Partners are primarily selected by invitation, but installers are welcome to apply for partnership.

Barco Residential offers a range of in-depth technical product training courses, as well as calibration training and sales training.

The technical courses provide in-depth knowledge on the products and provide integrators with the required knowledge to successfully install the range.

The calibration training is of particular importance, as only a properly calibrated system will perform to its full potential and provide the client the best possible experience. Sales oriented training is also a critical component that will help drive business growth.

Barco says it has an obligation to offer its clients the best experience possible. This goes beyond selling products and technologies and requires the ability to sell a high value experience. It’s a different skillset and can be of great benefit to a custom integrator’s business and bottom line.

Mark Tracy, VP of marketing, Middle Atlantic, says, “As AV systems become increasingly more complex, integrators rely on us to help them design and integrate great AV systems. Whether that’s by teaching them about how to solve thermal management challenges, or how to make sure the system is powered and backed-up with the right technologies to ensure reliability, our training needs to provide benefit to our customers by helping them do their job more efficiently and profitably.”

Mark adds, “Maxwell Kopsho, Middle Atlantic’s new director of training, will be expanding training

30 | February 2018 Training.indd 30

programs for the company and its customers — ensuring delivery of best practices, application, and technical product training.”

In addition to offering the CTS Prep Course, delivered by its own AVIXA Educators of the Year, Middle Atlantic also offers basics of fundamentals and topical training on emerging and disruptive technologies.

Mark says, “Middle Atlantic Products training is focused on building a foundation that students can build on just as they would use Middle Atlantic Products as the foundation of any great system. The training we provide will be conducted regionally, in a collaborative classroom environment where standards and system integrity remain the focus and metric for success.”

Distributor Invision runs its Training Academy which looks to provide a grounding in all the products and disciplines the company covers.

The courses are practitioner-led, theory and practical based across the UK, Ireland and Benelux.

A new course for 2018 covers Artnovion Acoustic Treatment Training and delivers an understanding of this manufacturer of high-quality acoustic products.

The company’s extensive portfolio includes a complete range of attractive acoustic treatments. Artnovion’s three business divisions – Pro Audio & Studio, Residential & Hi Fi, and Architectural & Engineering – services the needs of a growing international customer base that includes recording and broadcast studios, educational establishments, hotels and restaurants, home cinemas and residential developments, factories and workplaces.

This program provides knowledge of the basics about Artnovion products and brand covering; product skills, design & functionalities, product installation demonstration, room acoustics, Hi-Fi room & home cinema and Artnovion product’s competitive advantages.

The course lasts one day, costs £25, dates and location available direct.

Luxul, one of the brands from the Invision stable provides a variety of IP networking courses tailored to suit the needs of integrators.

Brannon Young, VP business development for the brand, says, “IP networking is among one of the most important skills to have in today’s industry. Without industry-focused trainings the installer is left to traditional IT style networking trainings which are overly complicated and often focus on subjects that are irrelevant.”

From Luxul, installers get a foundational understanding of relevant IP networking knowledge as well as focused instruction to unique challenges they face. They also have the chance to speak with subject matter experts about specific networking topics or job requirements.

The Luxul Training Programme was a CEDIA award winner in 2016 for Best Training Initiative. The one day course is designed for anyone who needs to understand the basic principles of a wired network. Cost is £149 +VAT to all delegates. Also available is the Luxul: Wireless Network Training course, another one day course this time concentrating on the wireless variety. Cost is £99 plus VAT. Ed McConaghay, CEO, of the RTI platform, also available from Invision, explains the company has made key appointments to training staff in the past year.

Ed says, “This is a part of our renewed focus on service and support for our dealers and distribution partners, which is integral to creating the ultimate experience for our customers. We named Justin Bresnahan as our new director of training. He is focused on an expansion of our training curriculum, with in-person and self-paced online courses using new knowledge-based assets and learning management systems.”

May 9-10 2018. Free registration – essentialinstalllive.com 27/02/2018 11:19

Essential Install | Training

CEDIA has introduced fresh initiatives to its training programme for 2018

CEDIA keeps it fresh

The Meridian ‘Dealer School’ in action

Trade association CEDIA has announced a number of changes to its education programme for 2018, giving integrators more choice.

Instead of four days training and one examination day, the Technical School now includes five full days of training. Featuring sessions on Project and Business Processes, Basic Wired and Wireless Networking, Smart Home Control and Lighting Systems, and Home Cinema and HD Video Distribution, the course has been boosted by the addition of Rack Building and Wiring Fundamentals. The Certification exam will now be held on an examination day at CEDIA’s training facility on the first Friday of every month. This approach is designed to provide integrators with more time to revise and ensure they are well-prepared ahead of the exam.

The Designer School has also been extended to five days, with the addition of the Introduction to CAD Design class. This workshop has been designed to provide integrators with a basic understanding of many of the essential AutoCAD drawing commands and skills necessary to use Computer Aided Design software in business.

CEDIA’s well established five day Boot Camp now features a new class, Safe Isolation. This workshop is aimed at integrators looking to gain knowledge and practical understanding of how to safely and correctly isolate electrical systems, as well as how to complete electrical maintenance and repairs of electrical systems.

May 9-10 2018. Free registration – essentialinstalllive.com Training.indd 31

Other changes to the programme in 2018 include the Home Cinema Design Fundamentals class, which is now only available to book as a two day course. Attendees can follow this class with a new three day Advanced Home Cinema course. Lastly, the Health & Safety session will now be run by Certsure, making it a strong option for those starting out in both low and extra low voltage electrical work. Details on all the courses are available on the CEDIA website.

WyreStorm is a brand which strives to make sure its integrators thoroughly understand what technologies are available, what they are best suited for and what types of applications should be avoided.

The company says that all too often there is a tendency to think ‘one size fits all’ and just because something worked in one project it will be fine for another. This kind of attitude increases the chances of a technology or product being incorrectly used in an instance it was not designed for, with the result being a problematic installation and a less than positive dealer or client experience. Making the right choice, first time, more of the time is key.

The subject of apprenticeships is one that has been talked about for a long time in the industry, but of course these are expensive to deliver.

WyreStorm suggests that perhaps the answer is partial sponsorship from government, industry organisations, such as CEDIA or AVIXA, chip manufacturers such as HDBaseT or SDVoE Alliances, or even product manufacturers.

WyreStorm training is available both via the company’s online portal and in person by WyreStorm technical staff at regularly scheduled training events throughout the year and across the world in conjunction with distribution partners or during trade events.

The accredited online training courses provides detailed overviews of WyreStorm products, including features, capabilities, applications, advanced set-up and theory on all of the HDMI, HDBaseT and AV over IP technology platforms, including aspects such as 4K UHD, HDR, HDCP and EDID. Scheduled training events are held at WyreStorm and distribution partner offices as well as CEDIA and AVIXA accredited events.

The Meridian ‘Dealer School’ is designed to give integrators the full range of skills and knowledge they need to integrate high resolution audio within the home and deliver a premium experience for their clients.

The programme features dedicated training on four key areas — Meridian Basic Setup, Meridian Advanced Setup, Home Cinema Essentials, and Meridian Sooloos.

All courses are free for Meridian dealers to attend and each take place over one day. These sessions complement Meridian’s CEDIA Certified Two Channel and Multi-Channel Master Classes, which are also available as part of the programme.

February 2018 | 31 27/02/2018 11:20

Essential Install | Training

Meridian partners are also able to take advantage of tailored programmes of training designed to suit the specific requirements of a dealer. Delivery methods can include on-site tuition, webinars, and supporting training documentation.

Throughout each day, attendees have the opportunity to ask questions and receive assistance from the Meridian’s education manager, Hugo Fitzjohn. This is a valuable exercise as it gives experienced integrators the opportunity to refine their skills and allows inexperienced dealers to practise setting up an audio system in an environment where they can receive support from an experienced audio technician.

Distributor AWE offers its training programme via the its Smart Home Academy, playing host to a range of practical training sessions, and now features two new courses.

The AWE Smart Home Academy: Foundation in Smart Home Control with URC – MX HomePro course is a one day session that teaches attendees how to specify and program a control system. The course has been designed for those who are interested in becoming proficient in URC’s MX HomePro range of products, which are suited for single room and basic multi zone control. Attendees will gain experience in building macros, using Logic and Variables, understanding network requirements and integrating third party control products.

The CAI continues to invest heavily in training

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The Designing an Immersive Audio Home Cinema course is a one day session that focuses on the tools that are required to design an outstanding home cinema.

Throughout the day, the trainer will focus on Dolby Atmos, DTS:X, cinema speaker placement, various projector technologies and how to select the best projector, specifying the correct AV receiver and the differences between projector screens, fabrics and systems. Students will leave with an understanding of the design processes and equipment choices that are required to create an immersive experience just as the director intended.

One of the highlights from Crestron’s busy training schedule is the yearly event that is the Crestron Masters.

The company recently revealed news of this year’s event which will take place on April 10-12, in the US and May 15-17, in Europe. Crestron Masters is a by-invitation-only conference that offers Crestron Certified Programmers the opportunity to stay on top of the latest technology and best practices through a wide array of training classes, while networking and sharing knowledge with peers. “It’s a constant challenge to stay current with the rapidly changing technology in our industry, and to truly master system design and programming. These elite programmers take time out of their busy schedules to attend Masters to do just that. They’re the most dedicated and driven members of our industry,” says Fred Bargetzi, Crestron CTO. With nearly 800 premier Crestron programmers filling 35 training classes in more than 94 sessions, and taking in networking events and entertainment, Masters 2017 was seen as success expanding its reach and programme considerably from previous years. This year’s promises to exceed that.

With many courses to choose from, participants can focus on their particular areas of interest. The complete course schedule and descriptions will be available during the registration process.

As attendance is by-invitation-only, Crestron Certified Programmers will receive an invitation email with a unique registration code. Registration ends Friday, March 16, 2018.

EI caught up with CAI’s Suzie Hamm-Bury to learn why the aerial installers trade association is investing in training. First and foremost, Suzie explains, “The CAI offers a comprehensive education and skills portfolio with the objective of ensuring that companies have the opportunity to keep themselves and their employees fully up to date with the latest technologies.”

The CAI’s programmes are designed to develop skills and competencies necessary to meet the demands of the aerial and systems installation industry, taught by professionals and offering hands on experience. CAI programmes can offer practical applications, not just the theory, and as an association, have no commercial bias. CAI offers courses including Basic Aerial Installation, Basic Satellite Installation, An Introduction to IRS, Basic Networking & Connectivity, Fibre Optics in Signal Distribution and Installation of Motorised Satellite Systems.

Will Hopkins of driver creation specialist Intrinsic Group, underlines the importance of raising standards.

“We help guide manufacturers through the process of API development and integration. One of the things that this global positioning provides us is an exposure and insight into the varying skill ranges of installers from country to country, and more interestingly, from platform to platform.

‘I’m sure it won’t come as a surprise to say that there are vast discrepancies between installers and between platforms. ‘What’s an IP address’, is a genuine

May 9-10 2018. Free registration – essentialinstalllive.com 27/02/2018 12:01

Intrinsic-FP2.pdf

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24/11/2017 14:04

Essential Install | Training

Hamilton Litestat is getting smart in 2018

question we received from a support ticket from an ‘accredited dealer’. Whilst there’s no harm in not knowing something and wanting to learn, obviously untrained or undertrained installers can do a lot of damage to the industry’s reputation.”

Will adds that it is not unusual to receive enquires from end users who have been told things about their system by an installer which are just plain wrong.

Will argues, “That’s why training courses should not be rubber stamping exercises aimed at helping distributors shift more boxes. Fortunately, here in the UK, with very few exceptions, the distributors are quite scrupulous.

Courses like those offered by the KNX Association, Crestron, Control4, and others all require dealers to hit a certain percentage, and some of these courses represent significant investments in time and money. Similarly, the RTi course run by Invision is backed up with out of classroom support, where they’ll happily answer questions to cement your knowledge.”

So why train? Will argues, “Having the ability to do what others can’t is a great USP; knowing a system or platform inside out means you can programme more quickly, which makes you more profitable and makes your life easier. Plus, let’s not forget that the social side of some of these training courses is rather formidable – I carried out my Crestron training across three countries and the ‘out of course’ experience just adds to the memory!”

Hosted at its AV Academy situated within its South London HQ or at numerous locations around the UK and Europe, all of CYP’s training programmes are free.

Currently offering two levels of training, which both follow a practical and hands on look at the AV industry, CYP says its courses support a number of crucial topics that the installer will face on a daily basis.

The Level 1 course is a half day hands-on practical Introduction to new AV technologies and distribution solutions using CYP products. The objective of the course is to give the attendees the confidence to specify and install a CYP AV system, whilst understanding the principle barriers to overcome from cabling to configuring several different scenarios.

The CYP Level 2 course objective is aimed to support the intermediate to advanced installer looking to level-up in terms of understanding the current industry technologies and how to apply and troubleshoot today’s installations using CYP products.

CYP also understands that an installation company may need further support in terms of training, project specification and showroom demonstrations. Therefore, it also offers courses and demonstration facilities for its customers and/or their clients to suit whatever they require support with.

British electrical solutions provider Hamilton Litestat has confirmed dates for its smart training courses for 2018, which will all take place at Hamilton’s facilities in Mere, Wiltshire.

The electrical accessories specialist received unprecedented interest and bookings for its training courses during 2017. Its smart training course introduces smart controls and equips installers with the knowledge and confidence to install Hamilton’s smart lighting and audio control systems. It explains the advantages of smart controls in a way that’s easy to pass onto the end customer, therefore helping the installer to embrace the technology and easily incorporate it into their business as an additional revenue opportunity.

Steve Apsey, smart controls technical support at Hamilton, comments, “We’re delighted at how popular the training sessions have become. I think we’re going some way towards removing the fear factor and dispelling the industrywide misconception that smart controls are complicated and require specialist programming knowledge.

“We’ve had an abundance of positive feedback with installers commenting how easy it is and how the sessions have given them the confidence to master the install and even simple laptop programming.”

Alltrade 0844 225 2700, alltrade.co.uk CAI 01923 803 030, cai.org.uk Hamilton Litestat 01747 860 088, hamilton-litestat.com Clever Association 020 7183 1314, cleverass.com Habitech 01256 638500, habitech.co.uk Barco Residential, barco.com Middle Atlantic 01488 73366, rgbcomms.co.uk CEDIA 01480 213 744, cedia.co.uk WyreStorm 01793 230 343, wyrestorm.com Meridian 01480 445 678, meridian-audio.com AWE Europe 01372 729 995, awe-europe.com Intrinsic Group intrinsicdev.co.uk CYP Europe 0203 1379 180, cypeurope.com Crestron 0845 873 8787, crestron.eu Invision UK 01359 270 280, invisionUK.com

34 | February 2018 Training.indd 34

May 9-10 2018. Free registration – essentialinstalllive.com 27/02/2018 11:20

Lights, music, action!

Hamilton’s out-of-the-box, plug-and-play Smart Lighting Control & Multi-room Audio is easy to install and comes with pre-programmed plates so all that is needed is to wire up the system.

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27/02/2018 15:51

Essential Install | Bemco KNX

KNX: a standard system

Julian Barkes talks exclusively to EI about KNX, the entirely open technology which is offering fresh opportunities in the install industry, and how his company BEMCO are training a new generation of smart home technicians to master this standard.

“The first thing to note about KNX is that it is a standard, as opposed to a brand,” says Julian. “It’s often the first misconception people have but KNX doesn’t actually mean anything – it’s not an acronym and can’t be compared to the likes of Lutron or Crestron. It’s not new, in fact it’s existed for 27 years, and it came out of the building automation market. The technology still stands up to close scrutiny – it’s bulletproof.”

Open to all

“The main selling point is that it is a decentralised, open protocol technology, and I mean ‘truly open’. In other words, it talks to all the systems out there, such as Crestron and Lutron, and all have developed gateways to talk to a KNX system,” continues Julian. “KNX systems automatically comply and talk to each other and we’ve seen a real rise in other systems, such as Savant and RTI, developing gateways to communicate with KNX. KNX is backed by, at last count, 426 globally recognised brands.”

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Championing this standard is the British Electrical & Manufacturing Company, BEMCO. Established in 1893 in Newcastle Upon Tyne, the business is today spread over the UK with seven wholesale branches, and a variety of other divisions such as Domestic Appliance, Export, Manufacturing and a Controls business with a particular focus on KNX . BEMCO is a 1-stop-shop for all electrical needs, domestic installation and automation.

BEMCO supports KNX integrators, electricians, architects, designers and developers with design and planning services, programming and technical support. Additionally, it provides KNX certified training via its KNX certified training facility at its flagship London branch in Wandsworth.

Bad marketing?

So why aren’t all installers using this system? It’s a question Julian has pondered before, and says, “It’s the industry’s best kept secret. It just has been, dare I say it, marketed incredibly badly in the past. We need to make a collective effort as wholesalers, manufacturers, integrators, and end users to raise awareness of the advantages that KNX offers.”

It seems that KNX has not yet been given its chance to shine in the spotlight, something BEMCO is keen to change. This desire for promotion is reflected by the CI association, CEDIA, who recently announced a reciprocal agreement with the KNX Association to develop closer collaboration on training and additional initiatives which CEDIA believe will add value to technology integrators.

Perhaps the age of KNX is finally upon us.

KNX is a far more recognised standard across Europe.

“It’s very popular in Europe, particularly Germany, France and Holland,” Julian informs. “I think around 80% of home automation and control systems in Germany are KNX driven. And many of the government buildings in Holland use KNX as their backbone controls system.”

May 9-10 2018. Free registration – essentialinstalllive.com 27/02/2018 19:05

Essential Install | Bemco KNX

Cost effective

Compared to other home automation control systems, KNX is not outrageously overpriced. “It’s a very robust system that is flexible but also cost-effective when measured against competing brands,” says Julian. “It’s fully integrated and brings everything together, KNX is not just a stand-alone lighting or automated blinds system, it enables a switch to offer multiple different functions eg. Lighting, Heating, Blinds and AV combined.

For the money an end-user could spend on KNX certified products, the choice of control, in terms of buttons or panels or predetermined settings, is endless and vast. A further advantage is that KNX is a hard wired system, so the end-user is never vulnerable or reliant on a wireless connection, in the same way that an app, or other wireless control devices, are.

Educating the industry

Commercial options

The move to KNX is growing, Julian explains, “It’s not new, but it’s far bigger than you imagined. It’s open source, it’s well supported by blue chip manufacturers, it’s becoming increasingly prevalent in the UK and not just with the high-end likes of CEDIA custom installations.” It is true that KNX is certainly becoming increasingly popular in the UK commercial space, with buildings like Kings Cross Station, Glasgow hospital, and Terminals 2 and 5 at Heathrow Airport all using the standard. It was also used in Beijing for the Olympics. Julian believes that “these commercial spaces use KNX because of its flexibility, its scalability and its reliability.”

Reliability is something to consider as all KNX certified products go through rigorous testing and are all certified through Brussels, which is the HQ of the organisation.

So, all the devices are approved to comply with this recognised standard. Certainly a good point to make to potential end-users of KNX systems. Maybe that’s why it’s gaining more traction as the all-round winner with Architects and Developers.

2018

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Electrician upskilling

Encouraging electricians to the custom install market seems like an obvious segway. “The major advantage for an electrician is that they have a fundamental understanding of electricity, of how cables are wired and the voltage demands,” Julian agrees. “Increasingly, structured wiring is absolutely key for a robust home automation system, hence why the electrician’s knowledge is so useful.”

He continues, “Electricians can upskill themselves which will inevitably lead to much higher day rates, significantly improving their earnings. The traditional sparky can now become a smart technician. This is an opportunity for an electrician to take back control and maybe collaborate better with the CI market. With the right training and support, this convergence of electric, water and heating can combine to present real opportunities to the smart installer. As a wholesaler, we’re setting out our KNX stall to try to encourage electricians and provide them with the platform. We want to support them.”

Julian concludes, “BEMCO is a third generation family business, and in order to keep the business going for another three generations, we need to change our thinking. We looked at lots of different systems but we think KNX is a horse worth backing.”

BEMCO 0208 874 0404, bemco-knx.co.uk

May 9-10 2018. Free registration – essentialinstalllive.com 14th March 2018 The British Electrical and Manufacturing Company Ltd. Wandsworth Bridge South 11th April 2018 London SW18 1TN 16th May 2018 t: 020 8874 0202 Bemco KNX.indd 37

“We’re working very hard on the education front, to educate our customers, traditionally electricians, into the opportunities that controls and automation bring, with a specific focus on KNX,” Julian clarifies. “So we’re now a Certified KNX Training centre and we run the Basic Course on a regular basis and the Advance Course every three months. Every month, we offer a “Taster course” to KNX, often taught by myself or one of our integrators who has the experience and know-how to help people get to grips with the tech. We think it’s ideally suited to an electrician because it’s a wired based system. There’s quite a lot of software to consider but it’s not actually that difficult to get your head around.”

BEMCO’s courses have attracted a diverse demographic of interested parties. “People who usually attend our courses come from a variety of backgrounds – electricians, software engineers for example,” continues Julian. “Some people come to the course from a software perspective, some see the commercial opportunity, whether they’re a developer or a consultant. They come wanting to understand this technology, rather than lose out on the business opportunity . And they’re getting to grips with it too, and I think it’s great.”

e: knx@bemco.co.uk

February 2018 | 37 27/02/2018 19:05

Essential Install | Flatscreen TVs & Monitors

Samsung’s The Frame is a work of art

Hooked to the silver screen Good content deserves the best kit. EI shows installers what’s new to view in the decadent world of high end supreme screens. So sit back and enjoy the show…

First up is Samsung’s The Frame, a lifestyle TV that aims to enhance a living space by displaying a piece of art when not being viewed, whilst delivering premium picture quality vision when powered on.

Designed specifically to give more purpose and meaning to the TV, the makers say The Frame reflects a revolutionary way to think about television, beautifully blending into any living space while providing added value and functionality for the home. The near invisible cable and no gap wall-mount keep The Frame looking tidy and minimalist.

Available in 43in, 55in and 65in models, The Frame offers choice and flexibility to customise any living space. Using the in-built Art Mode feature, users can

38 | February 2018 TVs.indd 38

select the art of their choice from over 100 pieces by renowned artists that have been commissioned and selected by Samsung. The Frame can be personalised further by displaying the user’s own photos; users can also choose from a wider range of images by signing up to the Art Store with a monthly subscription, or making a one-off purchase.

Exclusive features for The Frame also include a brightness sensor that adjusts the colour to optimum levels, as well as a motion sensor that switches the display off when users leave the room. Users can also connect to The Frame using their mobile devices using the Smart View mobile companion app through Wi-Fi, for added convenience and interactivity.

May 9-10 2018. Free registration – essentialinstalllive.com 27/02/2018 15:25

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25/02/2018 11:26

Essential Install | Flatscreen TVs & Monitors

Sony’s thin and stylish BRAVIA A1 Series

LG’s OLED 4K TV screens use self lighting pixels

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Emerging technology

Following the launch last year of its new QLED technology, Samsung continues to produce flatscreens designed to excite clients and feature many installer benefits. The QLED screens from Samsung are some of the brightest on the market, with the new Q9F model featuring an impressive 4K resolution to produce lifelike picture quality. The Q9F benefits from a stylish, minimal design, which also features an external One Connect box.

This ensures only the power cable and a connection from the One Connect run to the TV, meaning installers can easily wall mount the Q9F. The three screen sizes of the Samsung Q9F, 55in, 65in and 75in, will be available via AWE later this year. Also available from the distributor AWE is Panasonic.

Panasonic is launching new premium 4K OLED TVs this Spring. The TX-FZ802, featuring support for HDR10+ dynamic metadata, includes a second generation HCX image processor which improves the image quality from 2017 models, and the Dynamic LUT drastically improves the brightness and accuracy of colours. Two screen sizes are available in the TX-FX802 range, with the 65in and 55in models providing installers with great options for media rooms and home cinemas.

The Sony BRAVIA A1 Series delivers an enriched visual experience with remarkable blacks, authentic colours, blur-less images, eight million self-emitting pixels, and a wide viewing angle, says the maker. The flagship TV brings together the best of Sony’s picture quality technology, including the 4K HDR processor X1 Extreme, which accentuates the visual appeal of 4K HDR content. The A1 series is equipped with Sony’s unique Acoustic Surface technology that vibrates the display and enables sound to be outputted directly from the TV screen, all rather smart and impressive. It’s available in 55in, 65in and 77in models from Invision.

Complementing the flagship A1, 2018 welcomes the launch of Sony’s second range of OLED TVs - the new AF8 series. The AF8 boasts a sleek, speaker-less frame, and stands upright without the angled support leg which features on the A1. The design of the AF8 ensures all eyes are firmly fixed on the impressive picture performance.

The rather busy of late brand of LG is available from AWE and Invision and LG is back with its latest OLED TVs. LG OLED uses self-lighting pixels, individually controlled to achieve high-quality black and infinite contrast.

With an expanded colour palette virtually identical to today’s digital cinemas, LG says OLED is the best way to experience content. LG OLED 4K TVs also support standard HDR and Dolby Vision.

New for 2018, LG is introducing the Signature Series W8 OLED. LG says the ultra-slim screen (2.57mm) delivers unbelievable colours and contrast and supports HDR content and software upgrades include a new Alpha 9 processor and Google Assistant. The W8 comes equipped with a 4.2 Dolby Atmos soundbar that links to the TV itself, whilst maintaining the ‘picture-onwall’ clean aesthetic.

Installers can maximise the usage benefits of the new W8, as clients can sit anywhere in the room to enjoy their viewing experience. The LG W8 OLED has two screen size options, 77in and 65in.

May 9-10 2018. Free registration – essentialinstalllive.com 27/02/2018 15:25

The Smart Building & Home Automation Trade Show

The EI Live! show is the only dedicated custom install and home automation exhibition in the UK, catering for every smart building professional’s requirements and purposely designed to give you a truly rewarding and informative show.

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9th - 10th May 2018 Sandown Park, Surrey Learn more at www.essentialinstalllive.com

27/02/2018 15:52

Essential Install | Flatscreen TVs & Monitors

Luxury German TV and audio brand Loewe’s new distributor is Pulse Cinemas

floor, table and wall mounting, as well motorised stand options which not only add some ‘wow’ factor but offer real benefits, enabling TVs to switch on to a pre-defined viewing angle and switch off flush against the wall. To make neat installs easier, both TVs and stands include carefully considered cable management.

At the other end of the scale, the new modular bild 5 can be purchased as a screen-only TV, and be integrated with third party in-ceiling and in-wall speaker solutions.

Loewe offers a range of audio solutions too, that are easy to integrate thanks to the TVs built-in 5.1 decoders enabling 3.1 to 5.2 systems to switch on and operate seamlessly using just the Loewe TV remote control.

Voice control integration

Trading places

Luxury German TV and audio brand Loewe has appointed Pulse Cinemas as its new exclusive distributor in the custom install channel from March 2018. The move comes following Loewe’s increased presence in the hospitality and specifier market, and hope to benefit greatly from Pulse’s significant experience working closely with interior designers and integrators up and down the country.

Loewe will be the sole TV brand in Pulse’s roster. Mike Beatty, managing director of Pulse, comments on the appointment, “Our already impressive portfolio has been screaming out for a brand like Loewe. Our cinema packages now have the addition of a range of beautiful OLED TVs, which will mean our dealers and installers can finally specify a range that will give good margin and unparalleled picture quality, previously unattainable in the UK.” “Loewe will give installers the extensive menu options, meaning the screens can be calibrated for any room conditions to give the ultimate picture quality,” adds Pulse’s technical director and business partner Kapes Patel.

Proprietary software

2017 was a busy year for Loewe, and this year the pace is set to build even more. Three new TV ranges were launched, the flagship bild 9, modular bild 5 and entry level bild 3. All ranges feature the very latest OLED technology, Loewe’s proprietary software platform including IP control, and a fresh design direction orchestrated by Loewe’s new creative director Bodo Sperlein.

Loewe TVs have always been a firm favourite with interior designers and now reliability, the availability of certified IP drivers for leading control brands, and some neat software features are seeing the brands revival in the custom install sector.

At the premium end of the market, Loewe TVs offer a uniquely high-end look and feel through excellent product design, high quality materials such as aluminium and wood, together with a strong ethos of craftsmanship.

There’s flexibility too with a choice of stand solutions for

42 | February 2018 TVs.indd 42

For larger home automation jobs, there are certified IP drivers for Control4 and Crestron, with other drivers under development. Looking to the future, Loewe demonstrated Alexa voice integration at the IFA consumer electronics show at the end of 2017, and there will be other big software announcements in the UK soon.

EI caught up with Clever Association’s Jenny Huddleston to find out the installers preferred brand of choice. “We have used a wide range of screens over the years, we find that the Samsung, Sony and Loewe ranges cover most of what we need now. We often hide televisions on projects, to lessen the impact on the design aesthetics of a space and have used various methods including mirrors, artwork, bespoke cabinetry and even wood panelling. For any motorised solutions we always look to Future Automation, if they don’t have a standard product to do what we need then they’ll likely be able to come up with a custom solution for us.”

Outside the TV box

Barco Residential does not have flatscreen TV’s in its product line-up, at least not in the traditional sense. Customisation options are very limited for our market, even with recent evolutions. Instead, Barco believe more in a high-end ‘digital canvas’ approach, whereby it uses highly advanced imaging technologies to create custom digital canvases for a range of applications including home theatre and TV. Technologies such as high-end projection, direct view LED and near seamless tiled LCD, all feature strong image quality, says Barco, and can all be used to create digital canvases that can be easily integrated into the architecture and design of a home. Its products have unique features that make this possible and give custom integrators unprecedented options for their high-end clients.

With its X-series LED tiles for example, a custom integrator can create a bespoke 4K (or higher) ‘TV’ that can be 16:9 or Cinemascope aspect ratio without limit in size, and in a way that can be seamlessly integrated into a wall or furniture, for example. Its high brightness, image quality and lack of reflection, allows the screen to be a feature that can blend into its background like a chameleon, or turn into a digital art canvas when not being used as a TV. Distributor CAVD is showcasing the new MirrorTouch

by AGATH. With a combination of a touch panel, an AGATH television and a luxurious mirror designed to interact with home automation systems, the MirrorTouch offers a touch of class. The 1080p screen is available in any screen size and is compatible with home automation systems such as Crestron and Control4. This offers the possibility to use a home automation interface or watch TV on the same touch panel.

May 9-10 2018. Free registration – essentialinstalllive.com 27/02/2018 15:25

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27/02/2018 17:57

Essential Install | Flatscreen TVs & Monitors

ProofVision’s new 43in Lifestyle Outdoor TV is the first advanced brightness outdoor TV within the £2000 price range

AGATH’s MirrorTouch is IP65 rated, making it ideal for bathroom and kitchen installs

AGATH’s MirrorTouch can be mounted in-wall or on-wall and the device is IP65 rated, making it ideal for bathroom and kitchen installs. Bespoke glass sizes can be applied right up to 3m x 2m using the majority of AGATH’s glass technology options. There are 40 touch points across the surface that can register input from more than one user simultaneously, with a quick start up and response and high accuracy. As to be expected from AGATH, when switched off, the television screen is completely invisible.

Another new addition from AGATH is the 98in 4K UltraHD mirror. Claiming to be the only mirror TV of it’s size on the market, AGATH are looking forward to seeing installations in high end residences, hotels and properties worldwide. At this size, the T298 is the ultimate luxury statement whilst also solving a practical purpose for real life interior design problems. Available to order with any of the seven high tech glass and mirror options, the 98in screen features RS232 control, four HDMI inputs plus Display Port, a separate Media Module option and in built amplification if required.

Adding a seventh option to the range of attractive finishes for AGATH TV’s is the new Ultra Clear Mirror. With the highest brightness on the market, the image definition will impress all who view it, in-wall or on-wall. Ultra Clear features a mirror effect with a slight vanish tint and 70%

of light transmission. When the television is switched off, Ultra Clear provides complete discretion, suitable for all rooms of the house. A frame is included with every Ultra Clear order to conceal the mirror’s border.

ProofVision’s new 43in Lifestyle Outdoor TV is the first advanced brightness outdoor TV within the £2000 price range, says the maker. Fully waterproof, anti-reflective, anti-glare screens and smart condition adjustments are just some of the features that make this TV suitable for the outdoors. With a super thin bezel, full HD 1080p, built in 2 x 15W amplifier, the ProofVision Outdoor Lifestyle TV is three times brighter than a laptop screen for a clear picture, and is suitable for temperatures from 20° to 60°.

Customers already enjoying the company’s 55in outdoor screens include The British Grand Prix, where ProofVision screens were used to provide views of the famous Silverstone track and, luxury yacht, Ulysses. First Officer of Ulysses, Owain Rowlands, says, “The PoofVision outdoor TV was installed in the sun deck of the yacht.

After trying several outdoor TVs, this one has gone the distance despite the strong sun and sea salt.”

Challenging conditions

Established in 2008, ProofVision is a specialist in creating water resistant electronics for modern day living.

ProofVision’s innovative designs, high quality materials and smart features are designed to provide unique and practical solutions for outdoor entertainment.

Summer’s on the way and, with many seasonal events coming up such as the Commonwealth Games, Wimbledon and the World Cup, exterior screens could be a decent seller this year.

AWE 01372 729 995, awe-europe.com Invision 01359 270 280, invisionUK.com Pulse Cinemas 01279 647 039, pulsecinemas.com Clever Association 020 7183 1314, cleverass.com Barco Residential, barco.com/residential CAVD 01628 563 344, cavd.co.uk ProofVision 0208 965 5666, proofvision.co.uk

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May 9-10 2018. Free registration – essentialinstalllive.com 27/02/2018 15:25

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triax.uk/in-house-connectivity

20/02/2018 11:46

Essential Install | Awesome Alliances

Ethernet? Who cares?

The SDVoE Alliance is a nonprofit consortium of technology providers collaborating to standardise the adoption of Ethernet to transport AV signals in professional AV environments. The aim is to create an ecosystem around SDVoE technology, allowing software to define AV applications. Here, president of the SDVoE Alliance, Justin Kennington, talks through the tech.

The SDVoE believes the resi market is ready for its tech.

Photos courtesy of Savant

The residential consumer does not care about AV over IP. I am the president of the Software Defined Video over Ethernet Alliance (SDVoE), and I don’t think your customers care about this alliance’s technology simply because it is based on Ethernet.

Ethernet permeates every piece of technology in the modern smart home. Wi-Fi thermostats, Apple TVs (and a host of other low-cost devices) streaming HDR content, internet radio, and cloud-controlled lighting are all mainstays of the custom install industry. In fact, in-home video distribution on a matrix switch is probably the only system left that is not fully Ethernet based.

That is changing fast, now that the SDVoE Alliance has members like Savant, Techlogix, VuWall, Wyrestorm, and ZeeVee building products targeting the high-end residential install market.

Why has video distribution been such a hold out?

Because – say it with me – the residential consumer does not care about AV over IP. He cares about experience, about convenience, about cost, but not about underlying transport technology. And now that SDVoE is a part of the residential ecosystem, AV over IP can deliver all those things the homeowner cares about.

One thing the homeowner cares a lot about is image quality, and specifically high dynamic range (HDR) video.

SDVoE technology has offered support for HDR since the beginning of the alliance. In fact, HDR was considered a key use case in the design of SDVoE. This contrasts with point-topoint-only technologies like HDBaseT, which are scrambling to find ways to move HDR content (and force you to upgrade those matrix switch cards yet again!).

But SDVoE is much more than a video transport technology. SDVoE is a complete platform for controllable video distribution.

This platform allows software to define the system’s functionality, and therefore the user’s experience. This means that video distribution is no longer considered as a standalone subsystem, but rather as an integrated function of the home.

This makes it easy for hardware and software manufacturers to seamlessly integrate user interfaces as controllers for the video distribution system. Handheld remotes, wall stations, smartphones and tablets, and smart watches can all be integrated with ease to drive the distribution system. This could be something as simple as putting a ‘Watch TV’ button on a remote, or as sophisticated as using nearfield tracking to have a user’s favorite content follow their smartwatch around the premises. And all this intelligence can allow your video distribution system to exchange control and data with cloud-based services.

This means easier system maintenance and management for the system integrator. When your client is having problems in the bedroom (ahem I mean with their TV), you will be able to communicate with the encoder, switch, and decoder behind their TV to analyse and repair the trouble.

The central point of video distribution is that any screen in the environment can have any content delivered to it. In fact, with SDVoE, each screen is no longer limited to a single piece of content. The advanced multi-view capability of the platform means that any screen can be treated as a canvas where multiple pieces of content can be composited together. Whether this means popping up a doorbell camera on top of a movie when the doorbell rings, or displaying 2, 4, 9 (or more) sporting events at once is all up to the creator of the control software. In the old world of matrix switching, this functionality required dedicated image processors for each display wanting this capability, plus several outputs of your matrix switch dedicated to each tiling display. As you can imagine, this was very expensive and typically limited to a small number of displays. SDVoE brings more advanced capabilities for a lower cost than the old ‘hardware-defined’ approach.

Ever had a client with an 8x8 matrix switch ask to add a 9th display? Of course you have – and they got upset when they found out what it would cost to upgrade to a 16x16 just for that one extra display. With SDVoE and 10G Ethernet, expansion is easy. In the Ethernet environment, there is no such concept as ‘input’ or ‘output.’ A switch port is just a switch port, and you might connect an encoder or decoder to it. Furthermore, if you do run out of ports on your first Ethernet switch, it is easy to expand an Ethernet network by adding a second switch – no need to throw out the first one.

The residential consumer does not care about AV over IP. But the SDVoE platform is about much more than AV over IP. SDVoE is a platform for making installers’ lives easy, and for creating the best user experiences possible, from the boardroom to the bedroom.

SDVoE Alliance +1 514 446 2412, sdvoe.org

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May 9-10 2018. Free registration – essentialinstalllive.com 27/02/2018 15:26

IAM “The CEDIA awards are a highlight of the year and a chance for us to measure our achievements against our fellow industry specialists.

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Explore the benefits of membership today.

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21/02/2018 12:49

Essential Install | Metex

Work hard, climb hard Metex works with British manufacturers to produce innovative, high quality, genuinely useful products, designed to save the construction trades time and money. Here, Metex’s Daniel Hopkins explains how the company’s ethos stems from his own personal determination and creative mind, and describes how to run a successful business using hard work and thinking outside the box.

I’m Daniel Hopkins, 49 years young, and a very driven individual that tries to squeeze the most out of each and every day. I have been running my own businesses for 25 years and have built three successful companies prior to Metex.

I’m registered severely sight impaired although you wouldn’t necessarily know this when just chatting to me, I have only central vision or ‘tunnel vision’ remaining, making mobility very challenging and I haven’t driven for over 20 years – this being particularly frustrating, hurry up driverless cars!

Daniel Hopkins

Daniel Bamford

Taking the climb

Myself and some close friends decided to climb Kilimanjaro for the eye disease charity RP Fighting Blindness. I wanted to see how far I could push myself, both physically and mentally, and see how far I could get with my sight loss and whether this would be a barrier. I climbed with one on my best friends who guided me virtually every step of the way, be at airports, at night in the dark when I’m nearly totally blind, and of course up the mountain.

At around 3.15am on summit night I had virtually given up, the mental strain of walking three hours in total darkness had almost overpowered me – but with encouragement (and chocolate) I rallied and reached the summit some 5 hours later. It was a gruelling day of 16 hours walking and the hardest physical and mental task I have ever undertaken. In total, we raised £20,000 for the charity.

Working hard

I push myself every day at work to the same degree and am not easily beaten or prepared to give up on challenges that are put before me. It’s this dogged determination in business that you need, to never settle with the status quo, to look for the next opportunity. This is how Metex was born.

I’ve always enjoyed building strong brands that I can be proud of, some of which are still highly regarded in the industry today. Metex was formed in 2014 as I wanted to start something totally fresh and brand new. I partnered with a very capable product design engineer, fellow Metex director, Daniel Bamford (B from the JCB family). Together we evolve product concepts into actual hardware that can be commercialised. Our ethos is simply to create, design and manufacture innovative products for the construction industry, and any sub sectors where we feel a real opportunity exists. We want to make products that make a real difference with time spent using them, and ultimately create cost saving solutions for the tradesperson on site when using our products.

48 | February 2018 Dainiel @Metex.indd 48

Heavy metal

We manufacture a wide range of products, but work specifically within three sub sectors, fixings and hardware, plumbing & drainage and screeding & concrete. Our Corefix fixing is a great product for the AV installer, both in the domestic and commercial market, whereas our award-winning pest control product Ratwall is just as clever and sits within our drainage sector. Metal is always our preferred building material hence the name Metex. Where possible we will use high grade coated steel or aluminium to produce products that last and are desirable – even if they are sometimes not the cheapest.

We have built the Metex brand and reputation on the quality of our products, both in terms of materials and performance. We prefer to use first class British suppliers, including a number that also supply the medical and aerospace industries. Our own in-house R&D are able to maintain control of the entire design process from initial idea right through to product approval, market launch and production quality control.

Using independent test laboratories to verify our inhouse R&D work allows us to stand behind the data we publish; this has been particularly useful in obtaining the impressive test figures for Corefix.

We have seen rapid adoption of Corefix within the CI market. The patented wall fixing eliminates the issues previously associated with fixing dot and dab walls. The Corefix range is expanding to include a dedicated fixing for thermalite blocks, with further exciting developments on the horizon. Corefix is available at trade counters across the country as well as direct from Metex.

Advice for starting out

As to anyone starting out in the construction industry or any sub sector – it’s fun, you have to work hard but your days are generally very varied and due to the number of different tasks that you can get pulled into, there is never a quiet moment. It may not be deemed to be as glamorous as IT or funky as graphic design, but you get to meet an awful lot of good people who are good to deal with and straight talking, and they genuinely want to see businesses like ours step up to the next level. My advice is to look at the installer / construction sector with fresh eyes – it has a lot to offer!

Metex 0800 130 3646, metexonline.com

May 9-10 2018. Free registration – essentialinstalllive.com 27/02/2018 15:26

ECA3189 ECA Member Ad 1 A4 WHITE with Bleed.pdf

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Shaping our industry. Enabling business growth. Getting you specified.

16/02/2018 09:12

Essential Install | ISE 2018

Focal introduced increased installation options

A Dam fine show!

EI presents just a few highlights from this year’s ISE install extravaganza, a show with plenty of launches and company innovation.

First up, big rumour going around the show was that it might not be held at the popular RAI centre in the future.

Year on year the show is getting bigger and it now fills every inch of the RAI. The indication seemed to be a move taking place perhaps in 2020, with Hanover a strong contender which can accommodate further growth. EI has to say at this point, there is no official information on this, it is currently strictly a rumour.

Audio Visual advancements

Focal used the show to highlight an expansion to its install line. Debard Nicolas, home and headphones product manager, gave an enthusiastic presentation of the new 100 Series and expanded 300 series, underlining the core aims of the products to deliver high-quality Focal character in the audio. The aim is to offer a solution for every area of a home including home cinemas up to 320sqft/30m2.

The 100 Series range is composed of three coaxial loudspeakers, all of which can be used as either in-wall or in -ceiling loudspeakers (100 ICW5, 100 ICW6 and 100 ICW8), one coaxial in-ceiling stereo loudspeaker (100 IC6ST), one in-ceiling loudspeaker (100 IC LCR5) and two products specifically intended for in-wall use (100 IW6, 100 IWLCR5). The 100 series features the company’s own aluminium inverted dome tweeter as well as adjustments to the high and mid-level.

The expanded 300 Series features Focal technologies, such as its attractive Flax cone and the aluminium-

50 | February 2018 ISE Review.indd 50

magnesium inverted dome tweeter, designed to provide audiophile sound quality and match the company’s floor standers should that be desired.

Already available, the 300 Series (ICW4, ICW6, ICW8) have now been joined by the IW6, IWLCR6, ICLCR5.

These models also provide the EQI system which stands for Easy Quick Install. Whether they’re used as in-ceiling or in-wall loudspeakers, they require no tools to install once the hole for the speaker is cut and the magnetic grilles can be painted to match any interior.

The grilles can be circular or square depending on the requirement. In demo, the 300 series makes an impressive case. Focal is keen on underlining its ability to produce tight bass, even at low volumes and it certainly does that.

Detail is also strong with the sound from things such as guitar strings; it is natural and un-muddy. Focal promises other additions including an outdoor system, subwoofer speakers and an amplifier in the coming months. The 100 Series hits this February, the 300 Series additions in May and come autumn the outdoor speaker, subwoofer and amplifier become available.

StormAudio has been in the news a lot recently following its management buyout and separation from Auro Technologies, where the hardware brand was birthed. Now owned by Immersive Audio Technologies Group, headed up by Yves Trélohan, who served as senior vice president at Auro Technologies’ Home Entertainment and Luxury Audio Product Division, the StormAudio brand is striking out on its own.

May 9-10 2018. Free registration – essentialinstalllive.com 27/02/2018 15:27

Essential Install | ISE 2018

NAD and BluOS were highlighting a musical approach to multi-room

Highlighted at the show was a freshly inked deal with audio brand Bryston which will see the latter produce the SP4 surround processor based on StormAudio’s platform, whilst StormAudio will introduce two-channel and four-channel amplifiers based on Bryston’s Cubed Series Technology.

On the new management set up, Yves explains that the company wanted to be seen as truly impartial when it comes to immersive audio platforms, more difficult to do with the old set up.

Yves also underlines that the company is now focusing on developing and promoting a complete package for installers. This includes the company adding Dirac Live room correction via the StormOptimiser suite.

Without needing to be experts in acoustics, installers can correct the behaviours of the room and speakers as a complete system. Dirac Live not only corrects the frequency response, but also the impulse response of the loudspeakers in a room and helps to create a more natural, realistic and transparent sound with tighter bass and reduced room modes. Dirac Live features right across the range of StormAudio processors and is available as a free DSP runtime firmware upgrade to legacy products.

Another feature that Yves is proud of is the range’s ability to hold up under intense usage. However, should there be a problem, the brand is also confident the remote monitoring capabilities of the system means that these are quickly dealt with and should a site visit be necessary, the installer rolls up already knowing what the issue is.

Another important aspect of the company’s operation is built around feedback from installers. As the company develops all of its software in-house it can feed comments and requests directly into development, which it does on a regular basis. StormAudio is also proud of its support for dealers and distributors. Yves says that this is at least as important as delivering strong product.

Other developments coming for this year will see Dolby 9.1.6 added to the 16 channel processors which will allow this part of the range to do larger cinemas without the need for the 32 channel products.

A combined stand featuring the power of the BluOS multi-room operating system and NAD hardware was the perfect place at the show to get an insight into a company coming at the install market with some heavyduty audio heritage.

Greg Stidsen, director, technology and product planning for Lenbrook International, explained that the BluOS platform was the result of NAD wanting to find a network partner, not being able to find one it felt was suitable, so it built its own.

A fresh ability to decode Dolby Digital surround sound was highlighted via BluOS as well as more compatibility with other non-audio control options such as Lutron, Control4, Elan and Crestron.

The company says that installers can now build and program integration systems with a trusted, full-featured

May 9-10 2018. Free registration – essentialinstalllive.com ISE Review.indd 51

music app that delivers lightning-fast hi-res streaming performance for all BluOS enabled speakers, systems, and multi-zone amplifiers.

Each driver is certified and has passed interoperability tests to provide integration of BluOS functions including full playback controls, browsing and searching music streaming services, local input selection, access to presets, and play queue management.

The BluOS platform is available with products ranging from NAD Electronics’ traditional Hi-Fi components and custom rack-mounted multi-zone amplifiers, to Bluesound’s line of all-in-one wireless speakers and streaming components.

ISE would not be complete without a good cinema demo and one of the best for a while could be experienced courtesy of a team under the Cinema Partners umbrella. This collaboration featured several brands available via Genesis Technologies UK, as well as some other industry friends. Featured in the Dolby Atmos 7.2.4 setup were precision-calibrated dARTS speakers, cinema seating from Ineva Design, a Display Technologies Frontier fixed frame projector screen with AT Ref image surface and Cinema-ATS acoustic treatment. The demo also used a StormAudio audio processor, Barco projector and Cinema-ATS acoustic treatment.

Getting a high-quality demo in a show environment is never easy so the team deserve big credit for pulling off what was a really impressive session. The team were at pains to point to all the attention to detail that goes into turning these products from good performers to great ones and the demo also deserves credit for picking some great content. The train crash scene from Super8 and some excellent footage from AC/DC Live At River Plate really showed of the versatility of the set up.

Mounting specialist Sanus was keen to underline some of the successful products it has launched this year.

In particular, the work it has done providing mounting options for Sonos Play:1, Play:3 and Play:5. Rik van Bommel from the company explained however that Sanus is not resting on its laurels. No details were available at the show, but the company did drop some big hints that new Sonos options would be introduced in-line with the company’s very latest innovations, more news about that when we get it, expected release date is middle of this year.

Meridian Audio showcased a number of new products and Hi-Res audio solutions. Paired with Meridian’s existing range of high resolution audio solutions, including the 200 series, Meridian demonstrated a pair of DSP5200 Special Edition Loudspeakers. Exclusively for ISE 2018, Meridian demonstrated its new UHD722 Ultra High Definition HDMI Processor, a 4K switching solution with built-in Multichannel Meridian High Resolution (MMHR), enabling connection to existing processors to boost HDMI-compatible equipment sound quality.

Providing a powerful link for seamless audio, the UHD722 features Meridian’s high res Upsampling and Apodising technologies to offer high-quality performance from Bluray Disc, satellite/TV receivers and games consoles.

Meridian’s award-winning M6 Digital Active Loudspeaker – which now includes brand new features was also demonstrated.

Thanks to its new ‘mono’ mode, the M6’s signature room-filling sound is now available from just a single loudspeaker. Meridian also previewed the 210 Streamer designed to bring Bluetooth, Apple Airplay and Spotify Connect to Meridian products. Additional innovations from its growing 200 series range were also on display, including the 271 Digital Theatre Controller and 251 Powered Zone Controller.

February 2018 | 51 27/02/2018 15:28

Essential Install | ISE 2018

Control and automation advancements

Control4 introduced some more affordable control options

52 | February 2018 ISE Review.indd 52

WyreStorm had plenty to discuss including the extending of the H2X series with H2XC offering HDBaseT 4K HDR, integrated audio switchers and custom transmission cards.

An evolution of the H2X series, the H2XC adds integrated audio DSP matrix switchers with a selection of customisable multi-format, multi-platform transmission cards.

WyreStorm says the H2XC was developed for large scale residential and commercial applications facilitating the distribution of multi-source 4K UHD with HDR and legacy video formats, as well as multi-source audio matrix switching to multiple zones, including SmartTV functions and audio-on-demand products.

The H2XC Series includes WyreStorm’s SmartEDID technology to remove conflicts when combining 1080p and 4K screens.

Modular in nature, the H2XC features a choice of a 10 or 16-way H2X chassis populated by a custom selection of six multi-format transmission cards in any quality or combination as per customer specification. The H2XC also features an integrated audio matrix with DSP capable of routing up to three separate audio signals per transmission card (depending on card model), including ARC, HDMI de-embed from video and separate line-level audio only sources.

WyreStorm claims that as of right now, the H2XC is only multi-I/O audio visual matrix device available capable of delivering full-bandwidth 18Gbps HDMI content over both copper and optical transmission mediums whilst handling up to 48 discrete audio source devices to 16 DSP-managed audio zones.

Over on the ZeeVee stand the subject of AV over IP was perhaps not surprisingly the main focus. From huge projects like Tottenham’s new stadium in the UK, which will be 4K, ZeeVee is also involved in smaller commercial and large resi projects. The company’s CEO, Bob Michaels told EI that 2017 really was the turning point where instead of AV over IP being a relatively hard sell, customers and installers were more on board and demanding the technology. The company also wants to continue to make the systems easy to install and set up via the Maestro software package which offers features such as auto detection. Bob claims a competent engineer can learn the basics of system set up via Maestro in two hours.

Product wise, the company was launching a new ‘Meeting Room In A Box’ solution. Designed to compete with matrix switch deployments, customers can distribute uncompressed, zero latency, 4K video with minimal installation and configuration time, says the maker. The starter kit leverages ZeeVee’s Zyper4K AV over IP signal distribution solution and is well suited to companies making their first foray into AV over IP. One of the most innovative companies of the last few years, Pulse8, did not disappoint this year’s ISE crowds with its ‘Audio Ducker’. A features which allows more natural and successful interaction with Alexa.

Smartspeakers have to control their noise cancellation internally using software to try and cut out loud sounds around them. Often in this scenario the user has to shout to get a reaction. The Pulse8 solution tackles this by automatically lowering the volume of any AV equipment in the area when the trigger word is heard so the user’s voice can be heard, once the interaction is over, the volume returns to normal. The solution fits neatly away in a rack or other suitable housing. Also on the Pulse8 stand was the neoTap virtual remote launcher. This little wireless circular device is designed to give any user instant access to the TV remote app on any NFC enabled device. Via a web-based configuration each neoTap can be linked to a given area, spare bedroom for a guest for example, the user taps their smart phone over the device and controls for that area are instantly populated on to the phone.

Big news on the Control4 stand was the launch of the new CA1. An affordable controller designed to be the brain for mostly utilities-based control systems.

Priced at a keen $350 U.S (£250 aprox) the idea is to give installers a crack at broader markets via home builders, MDU developers and hotels, hence the lack of AV control on board and concentration on lighting, temperature and security.

The CA-1 Automation Controller includes Ethernet, Wi-Fi, Zigbee, and serial communication, leveraging the Control4 database of thousands of third-party devices to ensure integration and interoperability. Using the optional Z-Wave module enables the CA-1 to be compatible with a selected set of Z-Wave control devices including door, window, water, flood, and temperature sensors, electrical outlets, and dimmer outlet modules. The CA-1 also features Power-over-Ethernet (PoE) for installation flexibility.

An interesting chat as ever on the Atlona stand with Garth Loban, director of marketing for this connectivity and signal taming specialist. Garth observed that whilst AV over IP as a concept is beginning to make traction, from his point of view the ability to remote manage was a more powerful and accessible concept. Garth also observed that adoption cycles can be slower than imagined as those outside the industry catch up with what is now possible, but the movement is there. The trick is concentrate on what new concepts do, what advantages they deliver, not how they do it, argues Garth.

Product wise this year, Atlona showcased new audio amplification, 4K video scaling, wall-plate switching and signal extension solutions (wired and wireless). Atlona will also introduced a new structure for its OmniStream AV over IP platform that more efficiently serves commercial and residential AV needs, including a new range of encoders and decoders specifically targeted for Audio over IP. Garth seemed particularly taken with the new Gain Series of amps, which the company claims offer the industry’s most impressive price-to-performance ratio for distributed audio systems in commercial and residential environments.

May 9-10 2018. Free registration – essentialinstalllive.com 27/02/2018 15:28

Remotes actually worth fighting for Introducing the all-new Crestron HR-310 and TSR-310 Remotes. Elegant, ergonomic design. Epic functionality.

Take control. Get your hands on one now. crestron.com/remotes

All brand names, product names, and trademarks are the property of their respective owners. Certain trademarks, registered trademarks, and trade names may be used in this document to refer to either the entities claiming the marks and names or their products. Crestron disclaims any proprietary interest in the marks and names of others. Crestron is not responsible for errors in typography or photography. Š2018 Crestron Electronics, Inc.

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Essential Install | ISE 2018

Atlona launched its new Gain Series of amps

New handheld control option from Crestron

54 | February 2018 ISE Review.indd 54

Available in three models, Gain 60 (AT-GAIN-60), Gain 120 (AT-GAIN-120) and Gain120NET (AT-GAIN-120NET), the series is ENERGY STAR qualified and are designed to deliver flexible options for speaker amplification. The units offer low- and high-impedance outputs, RS232 and Ethernet control, front panel metering and convection cooling. Each amplifier offers specialised functions.

Video and multimedia processing equipment specialist, tvONE introduced a range of new features and modules for the C3340 CORIO matrix (4RU) and C3-310 CORIO matrix mini (1RU).

This latest CORIOmatrix release is designed for installs needing to integrate mixed AV sources such as SDI, IP streams (coming soon), 4K HDMI and legacy formats in a single device at low latency. Additionally, the new MX6588 4K60 HDR 8×8 HDMI Matrix was launched; a 1RU matrix router that supports 4K60 4:4:4 and HDR along with 7.1 digital audio. tvONE’s own CORIO technology allows the user to upscale, down-scale and cross convert between a variety of analogue and digital video formats. The sixteen modular AV slots (4RU chassis C3-340) provide the ability to mix and match video formats in the switcher.

The quantity and type of modules selected determines which formats will be accommodated and the matrix size (12+ input/ output module types to choose from).

CORIOmatrix supports any standard or custom resolution from 640 x 480 to 3840 x 2160 to allow installers to integrate any source and any display including projectors and LED walls for ultimate flexibility.

Control and configuration of the CORIOmatrix can be done via API via RS232, an IP interface or through an internal web interface. An optional and unique monitoring

module that creates thumbnail composition previewing of all your inputs and outputs (including embedded audio channels) is an additional feature of CORIOmatrix.

This module is configurable and has 2 DVI/HDMI outputs which can show different information/layouts relevant to your application.

The company was also highlighting new hot swappable power supplies on its innovative ONErack system, a universal, powered mounting system that is designed to improve rack installation of small devices offering ease of installation and removal.

Crestron had another big year with the Pyng platform receiving a boost with the announcement of video control from within the app based control system. Pyng can now control TVs, video sources and AV receivers and will also support the Crestron DM product family and DM NVX product lines. The Pyng app also now offers expanded customisation choices for larger macros.

Loaded with 100s of AV devices at launch, Crestron also highlighted its Rapid Agile Drivers (RAD) certification programme, so third party driver writers can create connections between Pyng and AV products.

The Pyng update also offers self-population with autochannel line-ups, all the system needs to know is where it is and what content provider is being used.

Other new forms of control where front and centre with the first chance to get hands on with a new family of wall mounted keypads and handheld remotes.

The handheld 310-Series, includes the HR 310, a push button model with nine custom buttons at the top of the device which can be engraved to designate the function assigned to them. Three AAA batteries offer six months of life and there is also an automatic backlight to increase the functionality as well as the aesthetic performance. The TSR-310 from the same range offers a three inch touchscreen with 93% more pixels and 50% higher pixel density than previous models. Also onboard, an integrated mic to take advantage of voice control. Crestron says Wi-Fi (802.11 a/b/g/n2.4/5 GHz) performance should deliver fast reaction times and the unit is designed to run for three-four days before needing a charge.

Now under the name of new parent company Nortek Security & Control (formally Core Brands) the ELAN 8.2 software update was being showcased designed to significantly simplify set-up with the auto-discovery and auto- configuration of compatible devices on the network.

New Elan Discovery scans the systems IP networks including wireless to find all devices by IP and MAC addresses. Devices with the ELAN beacon can be provisioned and installed with just a click.

All new ELAN devices will include ELAN Discovery and recently added devices like the upcoming ELAN Surveillance NVR/Cameras and ELAN Thermostat, which may be on a separate IP range from the controller, can be simply configured within ELAN Discovery by selecting the Install button next to the device.

A really attractive and practical looking new feature is ELAN Views, which allows integrators to create a custom floor plan rendering of an installation and view and control subsystems in 2D or 3D space.

The URC platform, offered in the UK via AWE, was another control platform with some notable updates. The flagship control solution, Total Control 2.0 was featured as was MX HomePro, Z-Wave integration and the launch of a Kaleidescape 2-way Chowmain module.

Total Control 2.0 offers a full graphical update, a new user interface and advanced logic and faster speeds for both integrators and end users. The new Accelerator 2.0

May 9-10 2018. Free registration – essentialinstalllive.com 27/02/2018 15:28

Rediscover Your Music CUSTOM INSTALL

CI Features include:

- 12v Triggers - Presets - IR inputs - Interrupts

- Fully-featured automation drivers - Audio inputs - USB Port for Service & Data - Rack Mounting

The Multi-Room HiFi you (and your customers) have been waiting for...

Multi-Room System of the year 2014, 2015, 2016 & 2017

The Bluesound/BluOS Difference...

- Designed for CI and for the end-user - MQA (Master Quality Authenticated) Certified - Hear it as the recording studio intended - NAD Electronics - 45 years experience delivering outstanding amplification & sound quality - Convenience features that users love:- App control, IR control, one-touch presets, headphone jacks and Bluetooth - CI features that installers love:- functional drivers, triggers, interrupts, presets, rack mounting and more - Unique product model - Vault 2 - features built-in CD Ripper, NAS Drive & Streamer - Feature-rich App provides fast time to music

CERTIFIED

Distributed and supported in the UK by Anatech Distribution, Unit 12, Teddington Business Park, Station Road, Teddington, London Borough of Richmond, TW11 9BQ

info@anatech.co.uk | +44 (0) 20 8977 8633 | www.anatech.co.uk

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27/02/2018 15:44

Essential Install | ISE 2018

BrightSign has its eyes fixed on the horizon

software also includes ‘if’, ‘and’, ‘then’, and ‘or’ commands to deliver larger and more bespoke macros.

Also new on Total Control 2.0 and on the simplified cloud-based control platform, MX HomePro, is compatibility with a Z-Wave gateway. The gateway expands the system control for Z-Wave based products, such as lighting, motorised shades and security devices, providing two-way control.

URC has also partnered with Chowmain to develop modules to add further compatibility scenarios, most recently for Kaleidescape. This option joins drivers already created for Sky+ HD and Sky Q set top boxes, Oppo Bluray players, and Belkin WeMo. An IFTTT module allows integrators to add Amazon Echo, push notifications, messaging, phone calls, Tesla, BMW, other connected cars, Twitter, emails, facial recognition and geofencing / location to URC. Savant announced this year that it was the first resi focused platform to become part of the SDVoE Alliance.

Savant was able to demo a new line of SDVoE-based IP Video products delivering a 4K video over IP switching platform for its dealers. The platform delivers 4K/60 4:4:4 HDR video distribution over IP with zero frame latency.

Savant says its dealers will appreciate the convenience of a centralised 10GbE switch, enabling high-bandwidth Ethernet connectivity throughout a project. The video and audio distribution capability of this new switch is designed to deliver on cost as well as performance and size, allowing installations of from 2 to 128 zones or more.

New products in the lineup include the Savant IP Video 4 and 8 input video transmitters as well as Savant IP Video output receivers available with either fiber or copper as an option.

Versions of the Savant product also include on-board DSP processing to manage conversion of Dolby and DTS formats to stereo down-mixes, enabling a full range of residential applications – from home theaters to kitchen TVs – to be supported on a single integrated hardware/ software platform.

Another company having a big year, was CYP, launching no less that 40 new products. The show was also the launch-pad for CYP’s AVLC technology desinged to deliver genuine 4K UHD signals in perfect quality up to 70 meters over a single run of Cat 5e/6/7 cable.

56 | February 2018 ISE Review.indd 56

AVLC (Adaptive Visual Lossless Compression) has been conceived to give installers the technology required to deliver faithful HDR (HDR-10/Dolby Vision) video over long distances.

Despite HDBaseT’s 10.2Gbps bandwidth limitation, AVLC can pass the 18Gbps data feeds required for 4K UHD HDMI video sources, up to and including 4K@60Hz (4:4:4, 8-bit), as well as 10/12-bit sources with HDR-10 and Dolby Vision. This is thanks to the compression technology within AVLC, which packages and compresses the 18Gbps data allowing it to pass along the HDBaseT infrastructure and then rebuilds it at the display end.

Of the 40 new products launched, highlights included the first showing of the new flagship HDBaseT matrix – the PUV-1082-PRO. Integrating AVLC technology into this 10 HDMI input / 8 HDBaseT + 2 HDMI output matrix, the PUV-1082-PRO includes a complete audio matrix for flexibility.

Joining CYP’s range of matrixes is its latest modular system – the 16×16 MODX-1616. Assembled in multiples of four inputs/outputs, a user can specify any configuration they require – from 4 inputs x 16 outputs up to 16 inputs x 16 outputs and back to 16 inputs x 4 outputs. HDMI & HDBaseT connectivity and switching, including audio de-embedding across all outputs.

CYP’s range of HDMI switchers have also had an update, with the OR-88U-4K22 featuring full 6G HDMI 2.0 compliance, whilst the OR-44U-4K22 adds digital audio breakout via optical for each output.

Also on show was CYP’s new RAX 19in rack-mount system. Designed specifically for use with the widerange of CYP extenders, amplifiers and control devices, two versions are available: RAX-300 for 3U spacing and RAX-600 for 6U. Over on the BrightSign stand it was a similar story of a company at the top of its game very confident about its latest releases. On stand the company was previewing the XD4 and XT4 Series 4 players designed to support the latest 4K HDR standards.

Four models in the BrightSign Series 4 range are newly designed to support Dolby Vision and HDR10+.

In Q2 2018, the XD234 and XD1034 will replace the current XD Series 3 models and XT244 and XT1144 will replace the current XT Series 3 line. The XT line will continue to support PoE+ and XT1144 supports HDMI In to deliver Live TV to end-points either via an HDMI cable or streaming over a network. The new players continue with the attractive industrial design of the Series 3.

Jeff Hastings, CEO, explained that the new abilities will open up some interesting opportunities such as in retail where TV makers will be able to show off exactly what their sets can do via the Series 4 rather than having to rely on less reliable external sources.

Retail digital signage continues to be a big area for the company as more and more companies discover the marketing and cost advantages that moving away from static printed signage offers. However, Jeff warns that the next phase of development is really here, and that simply having signage that moves is no longer at the cutting edge. Interactive signage has been shown to dramatically increase dwell time around displays, with 2-3 minutes achievable, a life time when compared to older forms of marketing. With restaurant signage also on the rise, Jeff underlines that because eating and shopping now rank as the main reasons to leave the home in leisure time, opportunities for installers should be strong for this year and beyond.

May 9-10 2018. Free registration – essentialinstalllive.com 27/02/2018 15:28

Loki Cinemascope The new Barco Residential Loki Cinemascope laser projector offers the same Ultra HD enhancements as his Loki stablemate, coupled with a high-capacity 2.37:1 aspect DLP engine. This exceptional design allows a 2.40:1 film to be shown without requiring an anamorphic lens.

In partnership with Genesis Technologies and Meridian Audio, we help you create the very best home cinema and media room experience for your customers. 路 Motorized DCI notch filters 路 HDR10

To find out more contact neil@genesistechnologies.co.uk or design@meridian.co.uk

路 HDMI 2.0a 路 HDCP 2.2

www.barco.com/residential

Untitled-1 Barco HER 1ad Loki Essential Install Apr17.indd 1

14/07/2017 09:13 12/04/17 09:55

Essential Install | Training Dates

AW E

A LLT R A D E

HDMI & 4K HDBASET EXPERT INSTALLER

INTRODUCTION TO HDL

DATES/LOCATION: Mar 8; AWE North

DATES/LOCATION: Feb 27; Bournemouth Branch

WIRE FREE BLINDS WITH QMOTION

LEVEL 1 UBIQUITI

DATES/LOCATION: Mar 13, AWE Epsom

FOUNDATION WORKSHOP

DATES/LOCATION: Feb 28 Brighton & Hove/ Bournemouth Branches; Mar 8 Maidstone Branch; Mar 15 Hemel Hempstead Branch

DATES/LOCATION: Apr 3, Jul 3, Oct 9; AWE, Epsom

LEVEL 2 UBIQUITI

COST: £200

FOUNDATION IN SMART HOME CONTROL WITH URC – MXHOMEPRO DATES/LOCATION: Apr 4, Jul 4, Oct 10; AWE, Epsom COST: £30

HDMI & 4K VIDEO DISTRIBUTION WITH HDANYWHERE DATES/LOCATION: Mar 15, May 24; AWE, Epsom COST: £25

INTRODUCTION TO CCTV DATES/LOCATION: Mar 7 Bournemouth Branch; Mar 8 Hemel Hempstead Branch; Mar 14 Brighton & Hove Branch; Mar 22 Maidstone Branch

INTRODUCTION TO IRS DATES/LOCATION: Mar 28 Brighton & Hove Branch

INTRODUCTION TO FIBRE

WHOLE HOUSE INTEGRATION WITH URC TOTAL CONTROL

DATES/LOCATION: Mar 7 Brighton & Hove Branch; Mar 21 Bournemouth Branch

DATES/LOCATION: Mar 6,7; AWE North

CAT5E/6, THEIR CONNECTORS AND BEYOND

COST: £60

DATES/LOCATION: Mar 14 Bournemouth Branch; Mar 22 Hemel Hempstead Branch

MORE INFORMATION »

14th March 2018 11th April 2018 16th May 2018

DATES/LOCATION: Mar 15 Maidstone Branch; Mar 21 Brighton & Hove Branch; Mar 28 Bournemouth Branch

AWE 01372 729 995, awe-europe.com, smarthomeacademy.co.uk

All courses are free to attend.

MORE INFORMATION »

For more information or to book call 0344 225 2700, training@alltrade.co.uk or visit alltrade.co.uk

C R EST RO N CTI-P201 CORE SYSTEM PROGRAMMING

5th - 9th March 2018 21st - 25th May 2018

DATES/LOCATION: Feb 28 – Mar 2; Cobham Philo Room

DM-NVX DESIGN AND NETWORKING DATES/LOCATION: Feb 28 – Mar 2; Crestron UK North – Huddersfield

CTI-SG SMART GRAPHICS TRAINING

16th - 20th April 2018

DATES/LOCATION: Mar 6-7; Cobham Philo Room

ARCAM – PRODUCT TRAINING

DM-NVX DESIGN AND NETWORKING

DATES/LOCATION: Mar 15, May 9, Sept 6, Oct 31; Basingstoke

DATES/LOCATION: Mar 7-9; Cobham Boole Room

CTI-P101 FOUNDATIONS OF CRESTRON PROGRAMMING

DATES/LOCATION: Mar 14-16; Cobham Boole Room

CTI-FUSION-P CRESTRON FUSION PROGRAMMER DATES/LOCATION: Mar 15-16; Cobham Philo Room

DMC-E-4K – DM CERTIFIED ENGINEER

PRONET – QUICK START TO NETWORK DESIGN DATES/LOCATION: May 8, Jun 19, Sept 11, Nov 7; Basingstoke COST: £99

DATES/LOCATION: Mar 19-21; Cobham Boole Room

PRONET – INTEGRATOR ADVANCED NETWORK DESIGN

CRESTRON RESIDENTIAL SYSTEM DESIGN

DATES/LOCATION: May 10, Jun 20, Sept 12, Nov 8; Basingstoke

DATES/LOCATION: Mar 20-21; Cobham Philo Room

DM-NVX DESIGN AND NETWORKING DATES/LOCATION: Mar 27-29; Crestron UK North – Huddersfield

CTI-P301 ADVANCED PROGRAMMING SKILLS DATES/LOCATION: Mar 27-29; Cobham Philo Room

CTI-SG SMART GRAPHICS TRAINING DATES/LOCATION: Mar 27-28; Crestron UK North – Huddersfield

COST: £99

WYRESTORM HD DISTRIBUTION THEORY AND TROUBLE SHOOTING (INCLUDING HDBASET AND 4K) DATES/LOCATION: Mar 28, May 16, Jun 27, Jul 18, Sept 26, Nov 13; Basingstoke COST: Free

WYRESTORM – NETWORK HD DATES/LOCATION: Mar 29, May 17, Jun 28, Jul 19, Sept 27, Nov 14; Basingstoke

All Crestron training courses are free.

COST: Free

MORE INFORMATION »

MORE INFORMATION »

Crestron +1 888 273 7876, crestron.com

Training Dates.indd 58

DATES/LOCATION: Mar 14, Jun 5, Jul 17, Sept 5, Oct 17; Basingstoke COST: Free

DM-NVX DESIGN AND NETWORKING

58 | February 2018

COST: Free

DAHUA

DATES/LOCATION: Mar 12-14; Cobham Philo Room

For more info visit www.bemco-knx.co.uk

H A B I T EC H

Habitech 01256 638 500, habitech.co.uk

May 9-10 2018. Free registration – essentialinstalllive.com 28/02/2018 09:56

Essential Install | Training Dates

CEDIA

INVISION

HOME CINEMA DESIGN FUNDAMENTALS

TRINNOV AUDIO – IMMERSIVE 3D AUDIO

DATES/LOCATION: Feb 27-28; AWE, Epsom

DATES/LOCATION: Mar 5-6; Trinnov Audio, Paris

CUSTOMER RELATIONS AND NEEDS ANALYSIS

COST: Free

DATES/LOCATION: Feb 27; CEDIA Training Centre, St Neots

RTI – APEX PROGRAMMING (LEVEL 2)

THE PRINCIPLES OF PROJECT MANAGEMENT

COST: £99 +VAT

DATES/LOCATION: Feb 28; CEDIA Training Centre, St Neots

CEDIA CERTIFICATION EXAM: ESC-T / ESC-D / ESC-N DATES/LOCATION: Mar 02; CEDIA Training Centre, St Neots

TECHNICAL SCHOOL DATES/LOCATION: Mar 5-9; CEDIA Training Centre, St Neots

PROJECT AND BUSINESS PROCESSES DATES/LOCATION: Mar 05; CEDIA Training Centre, St Neots

BASIC WIRED AND WIRELESS NETWORKING DATES/LOCATION: Mar 06; CEDIA Training Centre, St Neots

SMART HOME CONTROL & LIGHTING SYSTEMS DATES/LOCATION: Mar 07; CEDIA Training Centre, St Neots

HOME CINEMA & HD VIDEO DISTRIBUTION DATES/LOCATION: Mar 08; CEDIA Training Centre, St Neots

DESIGN PROCESS AND DOCUMENTATION DATES/LOCATION: Mar 14; CEDIA Training Centre, St Neots

SUB SYSTEMS DESIGN AND INTEGRATION DATES/LOCATION: Mar 15; CEDIA Training Centre, St Neots

RESIDENTIAL NETWORKING DATES/LOCATION: Mar 26; AWE Europe, Epsom

NETWORKING SCHOOL DATES/LOCATION: Mar 26-28; AWE Europe, Epsom

WIRELESS RESIDENTIAL NETWORKING DATES/LOCATION: Mar 27; AWE Europe, Epsom

ADVANCED RESIDENTIAL NETWORKING DATES/LOCATION: Mar 28; AWE Europe, Epsom Member and non-member costs available online.

DATES/LOCATION: Mar 7; Bristol

COMELIT – VIP DOOR ENTRY DATES/LOCATION: Mar 8; Comelit, Welwyn Garden City COST: Free

LUXUL WIRED NETWORKING DATES/LOCATION: Mar 21-22; Weybridge COST: £99 + VAT

MORE INFORMATION »

Invision 01359 270 280, invisionuk.com

MERI D I A N MERIDIAN BASIC SETUP DATES/LOCATION: Apr 17, Jun 26, Aug 21, Oct 2, Nov 27; Meridian HQ, Huntingdon

MERIDIAN ADVANCED SETUP DATES/LOCATION: Apr 18, Jun 27, Aug 22, Oct 3, Nov 28; Meridian HQ, Huntingdon

HOME CINEMA ESSENTIALS DATES/LOCATION: Apr 10, Jun 12, Aug 7, Oct 23; Meridian HQ, Huntingdon

MERIDIAN SOOLOOS DATES/LOCATION: Apr 11, Jun 13, Aug 8, Oct 24; Meridian HQ, Huntingdon

TWO-CHANNEL MASTERCLASS [CEDIA CERTIFIED TRAINING] DATES/LOCATION: Mar 26, May 1, Jul 17, Sept 18; Meridian HQ, Huntingdon

MULTI-CHANNEL MASTERCLASS [CEDIA CERTIFIED TRAINING] DATES/LOCATION: Mar 27, May 2, Jul 18, Sept 19; Meridian HQ, Huntingdon

MORE INFORMATION »

Meridian 01480 445 622, meridian-audio.com

MORE INFORMATION »

CEDIA 01480 213 744, education@cedia.co.uk, cediaeducation.com

IVORY EG G K NX TRAINING

B EMCO K N X KNX ‘TASTER’ COURSE DATES/LOCATION: Mar 14, Apr 11, May 16, Jun 13, Jul 18, Aug 15, Sept 12, Oct 10, Nov 7, Dec 5; Bemco Wandsworth COST: Free

3 DAY TECHNICIAN

KNX BASIC COURSE

DATES/LOCATION: Mar 5-7, May 21-23, Jul 23-25, Oct 15-17; Bosham

DATES/LOCATION: Mar 5-9, May 21-25, Jul 9-13, Sept 24-28, Nov 19-23; Bemco Wandsworth

2 DAY PARTNER

KNX ADVANCED COURSE

DATES/LOCATION: Apr 16-17, Aug 20-21, Dec 3-4; Bosham

DATES/LOCATION: Apr 16-20, Oct 22-26; Bemco Wandsworth

MORE INFORMATION »

MORE INFORMATION »

COST: £750 ex tax

COST: £350 ex tax

Ivory Egg 01243 572 700, ivoryegg.co.uk

COST: £750 +VAT

COST: £750 +VAT

Bemco 0208 874 0404, bemco.co.uk

May 9-10 2018. Free registration – essentialinstalllive.com Training Dates.indd 59

February 2018 | 59 28/02/2018 09:56

Essential Install | Products

We do Essential Products our Opulent Offerings Of AV Automation thinking inside the box!

HDR Over *

HDBaseT

What more do you need to know?

The WSSA stands are available in Matt Midnight black or white

Sanus and Sonos stand up

xxx picture caption text in here xxx

Following the introduction of a number of Sanus accessories designed in conjunction with Sonos, the company is introducing the latest addition: a height adjustable speaker stand for the Sonos One, PLAY:1, and PLAY:3 models that mounts the three models in four ways.

Designed to fit the Sonos One, PLAY:1 and hold the Sonos PLAY:3 in either vertical or horizontal orientation, the durable, anodised aluminium construction resists wear and complements Sonos speaker aesthetics. The WSSA stands are supplied in single or double packs, available in Matt Midnight black or white and stand 25in (63.5cm) tall, adjusting to a height of 42in (106.7cm), to position the speakers at the manufacturer’s recommended height for accurate sound dispersion and securely supporting the speaker for optimum bass response.

Commenting on the launch, Rick van Bommel, senior international marketing and product manager, says, “Sanus has once again proved itself to be at the forefront of providing stylish and practical accessories for the popular range of Sonos wireless speakers. The WSSA products fulfil a need for flexibility in positioning of the speakers to fit in with people’s lifestyles, while maintaining a beautiful aesthetic and adhering to Sonos’ specifications for optimum positioning.”

Sanus 0207 043 2926, sanus.com

INTRODUCING

TECHNOLOGY

NOW SHIPPING *

HDR10 or Dolby Vision

cypeurope.com 60 | February 2018 Products.indd 60

Simple power Torus Power previewed POWERBLOCK at ISE, a new series of small form factor isolation transformers designed for less complex AV systems. Targeting the mid-market Torus Power unveiled the POWERBLOCK at ISE to accommodate smaller AV systems and the need to isolate high-performance source equipment, Torus Power aims to bring the benefits of toroidal isolation to any home theatre or two-channel audio system.

Torus Power products magnetically isolate equipment from dirty AC power to reduce the noise floor, enhance the dynamic range, and improve the soundstage and headroom to elevate the audio experience. In high-end video systems, power isolation increases clarity, creating brighter colours and blacker blacks. Also, Torus Power toroidal isolation transformers protect systems from the effects of power surges and spikes that can damage delicate AV equipment.

“We’ve taken a virtual ‘shrink ray’ to our big and heavy toroidal transformer, enabling us to offer a lightweight, compact unit that powers and protects AV components in applications where our full-size power products aren’t necessary,” says Torus Power COO and president Kevin Main.

Karma Audio Visual 01423 358 846, karma-av.co.uk

May 9-10 2018. Free registration – essentialinstalllive.com 28/02/2018 09:51

MEDIA DELIVERY OF THE FUTURE 2018

Thursday th 26 April 2018 9.30am until 5.00pm The National Motorcycle Museum, Birmingham Make sure you don’t miss out on what has become the industry’s number ONE independent show for signal reception and distribution, and is FREE for all visitors to attend.

www.evolvingconnectivity.com EI2018

Untitled-7 1

25/01/2018 10:23

Essential Install | Products

We do our thinking inside the box!

PUV-1810TX/RX-AVLC

PMC debuts the AVM30 range PMC UK is launching the AVM30 entry-level electronics range into the UK market, bringing the cherished AVM quality to a wider audience.

AVM30, which includes integrated, pre and power amplifiers, plus CD and media players, was originally launched exclusively in Germany as a limited edition range celebrating AVM’s 30th anniversary. The reaction was very positive, leading the company to make the decision to launch globally. AVM30 is based on three AVM classic products from the late 1980s, reimagined and engineered with state-of-the-art technology and a timeless, elegant design.

The A30 integrated amplifier draws on the heritage of its predecessor, the AVM A2. It takes the direct double-mono setup from the original and adds modern functions such as digital inputs, plus the latest high-resolution Bluetooth standard. Likewise, many innovations from other AVM lines such as the EVOLUTION and the OVATION flagship series in the circuit design have been included.

Like the A30, the PA30 pre-amplifier also includes functions such as digital SPDIF optical, coaxial and USB inputs and Bluetooth. Similarly, the circuit design features extensive innovations from the OVATION flagship preamplifier, PA 8.2. All functions of the PA30 are intuitive to operate – and yet it offers extensive adjustment options such as input sensitivity, sound control and home cinema loops. Adding the power to the range is the MA30, a class A/AB mono power amplifier that provides 225W of amplification.

PMC 01767 686 300, pmc-speakers.com

PUV-1710LTX/LRX-AVLC

INTRODUCING xxx picture caption text in here xxx

TECHNOLOGY

Introducing the first of a new range of HDBaseT™ extenders from CYP utilising AVLC (Adaptive Visually Lossless Compression) that delivers 4K@60Hz (4:4:4, 8 Bit) as well as 10/12 Bit sources with HDR10 or Dolby Vision™

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Scaling the walls Lindy has introduced a new Flexible Video Wall Scaler. The Flexible Video Wall Scaler can split, scale and output 4K signals across regular and irregular video wall installations made up of different displays. With several cascaded Scalers, video walls of up to 6x6 or 10x4 displays can be created and arranged in any order. The Scaler features bezel correction, zoom and align settings to create video walls with a variety of layouts, both regular and irregular, for maximum impact in retail or digital signage applications.

A loop-through feature also provides instantaneous switching between configurations as required.

“To understand how the Flexible Video Wall Scaler works, it’s best to think of several differently sized white projection screens placed side by side. An image is subsequently projected over all the screens from a sufficient distance” explains Owen Haigh, head of global product management at Lindy. “No matter how the screens are arranged, or if there is still a gap between them or if a few screens are larger or smaller, when I project an image onto them, I see it everywhere where a screen is present, and the rest of the image is cut off. In terms of results, the Flexible Video Wall Scaler does exactly the same thing – only with displays instead of projection screens. To achieve this, the Scaler must know the arrangement, size, orientation, position and bezel width of the used display; it then generates a separate signal for each connected display containing the section of the image that should be shown on each display.”

Lindy Electronics 01642 754 000, lindy.co.uk The Flexible Video Wall Scaler can split, scale and output 4K signals

cypeurope.com 62 | February 2018 Products.indd 62

May 9-10 2018. Free registration – essentialinstalllive.com 28/02/2018 09:52

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Essential Install | Products

The new speaker can be used both indoors and outdoors

Staying in or going out?

Monitor Audio has introduced the compact and versatile Vecta V240 indoor or outdoor speaker which the maker says combines architectural aesthetics with innovation and high quality professional audio performance.

Using cleverly designed brackets and a single point automatic connection system, Vecta can be mounted horizontally or vertically. Installers can fix the bracket to the wall, and then simply drop the speaker in place and secure with a single screw.

An automatic connection system means that the install is sleek, with no wires visible.

Developed with an angled baffle and curved tapered back cabinet, Vecta is designed to provide a wider field of coverage for an optimal acoustic performance. The V240 blends seamlessly under eaves or in vertical corners, and is coated with UV resistant finishes in black or white. This speaker will be available in March 2018.

Monitor Audio 01268 740 580, monitoraudio.com

The Marantz SR8012 is compatible with Dolby Atmos, DTS:X, and Auro 3D soundtracks

Awesome amplifier The AWE Smart Apartment in Epson now features the brand new state-of-the-art flagship AV amplifier from Marantz, the SR8012. By incorporating the very latest audio and video formats, this impressive new model, which is Marantz’ first-ever 11.2-channel AV amplifier, extends the acclaimed Marantz line to new levels of performance.

Compatible with Dolby Atmos, DTS:X, and Auro 3D soundtracks, the Marantz SR8012 is designed to deliver immersive sound for a full movie experience. Its powerful digital signal processing means that the SR8012 can accommodate a complete 7.1.4-channel or 9.1.2-channel 3D immersive sound system without any further amplification. With an 11.2-channel design, and an oversized power supply, the amplifier is capable of delivering 205W per channel.

As well as supporting current video formats, the amplifier is designed to be ready for the latest formats too.

Conforming to the latest HDMI and HDCP standards, it has the ability to upscale standard and high definition analogue and digital video content to 4K Ultra HD. The audio section is similarly advanced, with the SR8012 being able to decode up to 24-bit/192-kHz ALAC, FLAC, and WAV lossless files as well as DSD 2.8MHz and 5.6MHz tracks via the front panel USB port and network sources.

AWE 01372 729 995, awe-europe.com

Building bridges

New software integration between a Rako Bridge and Systemline S7

Systemline and Rako Controls have partnered to release new software integration between a Rako Bridge and Systemline S7. The new update delivers a combined lighting and audio solution without the need for a dedicated control system.

The software update allows installers to easily set up a Rako control keypad to select music and radio functions on an S7 multi room audio system, such as choose a favourite radio or playlist, play, pause and skip, as well as volume and standby. The update can be applied to Rako software over the internet, which then shows S7 as a pre-defined audio device containing functions that can be added to Rako keypad button presses. A two zone S7 system has been fitted at Rako’s head office in Kent for training purposes, showing the integrated lighting and audio control.

Paul Wafer, managing director at Rako, comments, “The simple S7 protocol was very easy for our software team to add as a pre-defined audio system which is perfect for the required functionality on our keypads. Rako installers can now integrate lighting and audio in a matter of minutes without the need for a dedicated control system. Home owners will be able to walk into a room, select a lighting scene and their favourite radio from one smart keypad using a new lighting and audio button set.”

Rako 01634 226 666, rakocontrols.com Armour Home 01279 501 111, armourhome.co.uk

64 | February 2018 Products.indd 64

May 9-10 2018. Free registration – essentialinstalllive.com 28/02/2018 09:52

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FORTRESS SEATING D-BOX SCREEN RESEARCH BENQ DIGITAL PROJECTION PRISMASONIC AUDIOCONTROL STORM AUDIO BGW

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KALEIDESCAPE PIXELGEN KLIPSCH / JAMO JAMES LOUDSPEAKER NEAR SPEAKERS VICOUSTIC FURMAN CRESTRON LUTRON

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