Essential Install April 2021

APRIL 2021

THE ESSENTIAL MAGAZINE FOR THE AV AND SMART HOME INDUSTRY

PROJECTORS AND SCREENS THE DYNAMIC DUO

AUTOMATION PLATFORMS CONSENSUS ON CONTROL

CLUBS, BARS AND RESTAURANTS HOPES FOR HOSPITALITY

NEW PRODUCT

HMXL88ARC / HMXL66ARC

New Levels of Advanced Audio Integration We are pleased to announce the launch of two feature rich HDBaseT™ Matrix, the HMXL88ARC and HMXL66ARC. Using CSC technology, these powerful HDBaseT™ matrix support 4K 60Hz 4:4:4 resolutions over distances of 40m over a single CAT 6 cable. The new HMXL66ARC and HMXL88ARC come into their own with advanced audio features specifically designed for maximising the integration of all AV sources in the modern home. Enhanced audio routing is achieved through the integrated 26x8 audio matrix. This enables the audio both from displays (via ARC) and all other sources to be embedded and routed through the system at the users discretion.

These ARC and audio routing features enable our installation partners the ability to create a truly AV experience throughout the home.

NEW

HMXL88ARC 8x8 HDBaseT™ CSC ARC Matrix

NEW

HMXL66ARC 6x6 HDBaseT™ CSC ARC Matrix

HDCP 2.2

J Advanced HDBaseT™ technology offering distribution of video and audio over a single CAT cable J Advanced Colour Space Conversion (CSC) supports HDMI 2.0 18Gbps specification including HDR J 26x8 Audio Matrix independently controllable from the video

HDCP 2.2

J Advanced HDBaseT™ technology offering distribution of video and audio over a single CAT cable J Advanced Colour Space Conversion (CSC) supports HDMI 2.0 18Gbps specification including HDR J 20x6 Audio Matrix independently controllable from the video

NEW

HEX70ARC-KIT HDBaseT™ ARC Extender Set - 70m (4K up to 40m), ARC, Bi-directional IR, Bi-directional PoC J Advanced HDBaseT™ technology offering uncompressed video and audio with zero latency J Extends HDMI 1080p up to a distance of 70m over a single CAT cable J Supports 4K UHD video up to 40m (3840 x 2160 @30Hz 4:4:4, 4096 x 2160 @24Hz 4:4:4, and 4K @60Hz 4:2:0)

4K HDR up to 40m

PRO88HBT70CS

Custom Pro 8x8 HDBaseT™ CSC Matrix (4K 60Hz 4:4:4 up to 40m) Supports 4K HDR, IP Control, PoC, 2-Way IR, 4 x Simultaneous HDMI Outputs , Audio Breakout with Volume Control J Advanced Colour Space Conversion (CSC) supports HDMI 2.0 18Gbps specification over HDBaseT™ J Supports 4K resolutions including HDR (4K 60Hz 4:4:4) to a distance of 40m

J Smart Scale technology - automatic 4K to 1080p scaling Available Now - Custom Pro, 16 x HDMI 2.0 inputs, 16 x HDBaseT™ outputs

1080p up to 150m

HEX100CS-KIT

HEX150CS-KIT

100m HDBaseT™ Extender Set Supporting 4K 60Hz 4:4:4 (70m)

HDBaseT™ CSC Extender Set Supporting HDMI 2.0 4K 60Hz 4:4:4 up to 100m (1080p up to 150m)

J Advanced HDBaseT™ technology offering CSC scaling with zero latency J Supports 4K UHD video up to 70m (3840x2160 @60Hz 4:4:4 and @60Hz

J Advanced Colour Space Conversion (CSC) supports HDMI 2.0 18Gbps specification including HDR support

4:2:2 including HDR)

C O N T R A C T O R

S E R I E S

C44-KIT Contractor 4x4 HDBaseT™ Matrix Kit

J Includes 4 x HEX70B-RX HDBaseT™ Receivers

M U L T I C A S T

IP200UHD-RX/TX Multicast 4K UHD Video Receiver / Transmitter J Supports up to 4K HDR UHD video sources (3840 x 2160 @30Hz 4:4:4, 4096 x 2160 @24Hz 4:4:4 and 4K @60Hz 4:2:0) J Advanced signal management for independent routing of IR, RS-232, USB / KVM, audio and video

4 K

U H D

V I D E O

O V E R

I P

Become a Certified Blustream Installation Partner

Interactive Online Tutorials We have re-designed our 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. During these unprecedented times, we have increased both the content and frequency of the sessions we are hosting to bring you the most comprehensive range of interactive webinar content available in the UK.

Register now: www.blustream.co.uk/advanced-learning-portal J

Our UK Address: The Service Station,

Tel: +44 (0)115 824 7000

J Video over IP vs HDBaseT - which should you back?

Melton Road, Hickling Pastures,

Email: sales@blustream.co.uk

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J Specifying a Custom Pro Matrix with 18Gbps support

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LE14 3QG United Kingdom.

14 36 CONTENTS

27 58 April 2021

4 FROM THE EDITOR’S CHAIR

69 ESSENTIAL PRODUCTS

7 ESSENTIAL NEWS

FEATURES 14 ESSENTIAL AWE

Back to the future!

Top toys time!

Hot happenings

Sony sensations

16 PULSE CINEMAS

Paradigm Founder Series

20 NEW NETWORKS

IDEAL Networks is now TREND Networks

18 ESSENTIAL HABITECH

Habitech’s Technical Sales Manager John Perry on the potential for clubs, bars and restaurants

36 ESSENTIAL CEDIA

PROJECTORS AND SCREENS FEATURE 22 THE DYNAMIC DUO

Display Technologies (DT) on the unique proposition of projector and screen

Time to look at KNX

38 SMART THINKING

24 THE PROJECTION POSITION

62 ESSENTIAL CASE STUDY

27 CHRONICLE OF A DEATH FORETOLD

Barry Sheldrick, Director of Sales at DbM

Minimising the cyber security threat to IP cameras Smiles all round with high performance home cinema

Tim Sinnaeve, Managing Director, Barco Residential

YOUR DISTRIBUTOR www.avoke.co.uk | av@avoke.co.uk

24 47 76 28 SCREEN TEST

47 PUTTING THE RESI IN RESIMMERCIAL

31 SCREEN IDOLS

AUTOMATION PLATFORMS FEATURE 50 ALL CHANGE?

Chris Mullins, Product Manager Home Cinema, Simulation & Entertainment Sony Chris Dawson, Screen Innovations product manager at Invision

Mark Taylor, commercial director at Invision

Joe Roberts, CEO, RTI

53 THE FUTURE IS NOW!

32 ESSENTIAL 2N

Get ready to adorn your office projects with the 2N access unit m

40 ESSENTIAL KEF

Andy Attwell, Sales Director, RGB Communications

54 REDISCOVERING JOB SATISFACTION John Clancy, Executive Vice President, Residential at Crestron

KEF extreme home theatre: for the ultimate THX-certified system

CLUBS, BARS AND RESTAURANTS FEATURE 44 HOSPITALITY HOPES Dylan Thompson, Technical Project Manager at Penguin Media Solutions

57 TAKING CONTROL

Mal Fisher, Chief Technology Officer at AWE

58 OPEN SEASON

KNX UK President Paul Foulkes

FOR Smart Home www.avoke.co.uk | av@avoke.co.uk

APRIL 2021

THE ESSENTIAL MAGAZINE FOR THE AV AND SMART HOME INDUSTRY

pages 18–19

PROJECTORS AND SCREENS THE DYNAMIC DUO

AUTOMATION PLATFORMS CONSENSUS ON CONTROL

CLUBS, BARS AND RESTAURANTS HOPES FOR HOSPITALITY

APRIL

BACK TO THE FUTURE! As we move into Spring 2021, thoughts turn to very difficult past 12 months with the industry and the people in it having to cope with the unprecedented challenges of a global pandemic. However - we also need to look to the future, and part of that process is continuing to identify new areas that the industry can move into or exploit.

The first one that springs to mind is identifying the level of popularity which might increase around the services that were already core to what we offer. It does appear to be the case that people being forced to spend time in their homes has focused many people’s minds on how they can make their abodes more efficient (and more fun). It’s entirely possible that the popularity of home automation and entertainment systems could see a boost.

This raising of profile and demand is largely anecdotal at this point, backed up by some sales figures, however its entirely reasonable to argue that our sector is in a good place to raise the profile of its core offering as we come out of lockdown.

As for new sectors, an obvious area to look at is the home office. This is something many firms already offer of course - but as the work patterns seen in the UK develop, there should be increased opportunities here. Again, solid numbers are difficult at this point, but its difficult to argue that the COVID-19 situation will not focus the minds of many companies on how efficient they can be and how they can keep their workforce healthy too. When previously the home office might have been considered a more occasional option, its level of sophistication might not have needed to be super high.

If more regularly used, the need for better equipment is obvious. And this does not just mean comms for staying in touch with colleagues and carrying out work tasks, who does not like to listen to music whilst they are working? or have screens running for the latest news and financials running if they involved in that sector? lots of potential here.

04 APRIL 2021

At EI we have also recently discussed a ‘new’ category of home nightclubs with L-Acoustics Creations, offering clients powerful music, lighting and DJ equipment so party time can happen at home. Again, party rooms and the like are already in many companies’ arsenal.

However its certainly worth considering an expansion here and working this sector more into the formal offering of what people think about when thinking home improvements. More manufacturers are certainly going to be getting involved here, so worth a look.

EV charging is also identified as a potential growth area as electric cars grow in popularity. Home solutions include ones supplied with the car, such as proper fitted wall mounted chargers for the side of the house or garage, which are more integrated and faster, but still see improvement in sophistication and functionality. Not very much of this could be seen as ‘smart’ currently, there are going to be opportunities for working car charging intelligently into a home automation systems and increasing communication between the car and the home in general. Power overall is an interesting area, as environmental concerns continue to drive interest in efficiency, one area innovators will look to is buildings themselves, how can homes gather power from increased use of solar? or other energy harvesting techniques? In our sector many of the systems we use do not need large amounts of power, sensors for example.

What part will better technology play in making homes more efficient and what part can installers play in making homes super-efficient? not just in using power, but gathering it? Worth thinking about. What do you think? What will be the sector next big focus mid to long term? let us know!

Daniel J Sait Editor

Could increased communications and functionality between the home and the car be a fertile area for our industry?

GETTING IN TOUCH EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

Daniel Sait, dan@allthingsmedialtd.com

EDITORIAL ASSISTANT

Beatrice Lee, beatrice@allthingsmedialtd.com

SALES DIRECTOR

Ian Kitchener, ian@allthingsmedialtd.com

GROUP AD MANAGER

Claire Talty, claire@allthingsmedialtd.com

PUBLISHER

David Kitchener, david@allthingsmedialtd.com

STUDIO MANAGER

Mark Weller, mark@allthingsmedialtd.com

ACCOUNTS

susan@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 www.essentialinstall.com

SOCIALS /INSTALL_MAG /ESSENTIALINSTALL Whilst 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.

BRING THE POWER OF PRO AUDIO HOME For 30 years, L-Acoustics has been the choice of the world’s top clubs, music venues, and artists on tour. This powerful pedigree and unrivaled sonic signature are now available for specification in residential and marine environments. L-Acoustics Creations is proud to present Archipel sound systems, turnkey solutions from stereo to surround sound. Our team of experts can also design systems tailored to your requirements for any space. Visit l-acoustics-creations.com to book an appointment in London, Paris, or Los Angeles.

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Smart Solutions for the Connected World

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NEWS

NEWS MIKODAM APPOINTS CAVD TO DISTRIBUTE 3D ACOUSTIC PANELS CAVD will now represent Mikodam in the UK for the residential custom installation channel. Mikodam is a manufacturer of acoustic architectural products and furniture offering elegant solutions for luxury residential and commercial properties.

CAVD will focus on specifying Mikodam’s array of 3D acoustic wall panels for home cinema, media and dedicated listening rooms. Amongst the 15 styles, the newest additions, DETA, LEDA, PIRA, TORA and VATA offer a sophisticated look to enhance any space, says CAVD. All of Mikodam’s panels can be used for acoustic spot treatment or interconnected to cover walls and ceilings, improving the audio response. Performance specifications for each model are available at the maker’s website www.mikodam.co.uk

Jamie Pullen of CAVD commented, “We feel that Mikodam represents an exciting new wave of interior solutions to enhance the look and audio experience of any project. Not only the range of products but the ease of specifying, the support for dealers with renders, and the competitive installation services we can provide. We’re thrilled about this partnership and proud to be distributing Mikodam into the AV market.”

Daniel Allen of Mikodam UK added, “We’ve been looking for the right partner to take our products forward in the UK residential AV market. CAVD have a wealth of experience and knowledge; their strategy ensures success. We are very pleased to be working with Jamie, Paul and Wayne.”

CAVD cavd.co.uk

A new deal between Mikodam and CAVD

THE FRONT DIAPHRAGM: Fibre-Reinforced Polymer (FRP) has exceptional acoustic and vibrational performance.

FINALLY NO COMPROMISE HENLEY AUDIO TO DISTRIBUTE SYNTHESIS Henley Audio has announced a new distribution agreement with Synthesis of Italy, a specialist manufacturer of Hi-Fi electronics. As sole UK distributor for a wide variety of Hi-Fi equipment brands from across the globe, Henley Audio says is it delighted to add another international partner to an ever-developing portfolio for the UK and Ireland market.

Luigi Lorenzon, owner, founder and chief designer of Synthesis, said of the new distribution arrangement, “I’m incredibly happy to start a cooperation with Henley Audio as they are leader distributors in the UK and Ireland and I’m sure they’re the right team to develop the Synthesis brand in both countries.

“We at Synthesis are always looking for distributors who are passionate about our products and therefore we are sure that Henley Audio is the right team to work with. They know the market, they’re passionate about the brand and they have a great knowledge: a perfect match.”

Managing Director of Henley Audio, Laurence Armstrong, added, “We’re thrilled to be working with Luigi and his team. We are big lovers of the ‘valve sound’, so being able to offer a beautifully engineered product that delivers on that front, while

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still often delivering enough power to even drive more demanding loudspeakers was something we had to jump at. We’re really looking forward to helping Synthesis grow into a recognisable brand in the UK and Ireland markets by delivering a quality product that comes with a real sense of prestige. We’re working on the dealer network now and look forward to sharing more press updates as the products arrive and go out in the field.”

Henley Audio henleyaudio.co.uk

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A new Synthesis for Henley Audio

“We heard the IS10 invisible speakers in December and we were truly blown away… speechless with the quality…”

Andy Bell, Trusted Technology

APRIL 2021 07

Introducing Arc

Brilliant sound in 3D Bring all your entertainment to life with the premium smart soundbar for TV, films, music, and more, featuring Dolby Atmos.

NEWS

PMC STUDIO LONDON- A FACILITY FOR DOLBY ATMOS MUSIC DEMONSTRATION PMC is marking its 30th anniversary by opening PMC Studio London, a state-of-the-art Dolby Atmos music mixing suite that will be used to demonstrate the company’s loudspeaker products, including the new ci series, which are particularly suited to this immersive audio format.

Based in a former piano factory in Islington, PMC London reflects the company’s long-standing relationship with Dolby and its determination to further the development of Atmos in a music mixing context. This new facility, which joins other PMC audio suites in Los Angeles, New York and Nashville, will give artists, record labels, recording professionals and custom installers the opportunity to experience Dolby Atmos music mixing and discover the full extent of its creative possibilities.

PMC’s commitment to the Dolby Atmos format dates back to 2017 when it designed one of the very first Atmos Music monitoring systems for Universal Music Group’s Capitol Studios in Los Angeles.

“This is an exciting development for PMC – and for the UK’s professional audio industry,” said Oliver Thomas, PMC’s commercial director. “Dolby Atmos is already the leading immersive audio format for film and television and it is now gaining ground as a music format, with Dolby Atmos music releases now available through streaming services such as Amazon Music HD and Tidal. We are proud to have a close working relationship with Dolby and to have worked together

on a large number of Atmos mix room projects so far. PMC has always been at the cutting edge of new technology and our professional monitoring systems are ideally suited to Atmos mix rooms.”

Among these products are PMC’s recently launched slimline, high-performance ci series, which feature the company’s proprietary ATL bass loading technology and Laminair air flow control for ultra-low distortion and high resolution playback. All of the monitors in the range are designed with a shallow depth for wall mounting and all models, apart from the ci140 and ci140sub, can also be used in-wall.

PMC pmc-speakers.com

PMC and Dolby Atmos in new partnership

THE ISOLATING BAFFLE: Between the drivers, the rigid polycarbonate baffle is permanently bonded to the diaphragm, effectively dividing the diaphragm into two discrete HF/LF radiators.

MIDWICH ANNOUNCES DISTRIBUTION AGREEMENT WITH UBIQUITI Midwich is pleased to announce a UK and Ireland distribution agreement with global network solutions provider, Ubiquiti.

Developing high-performance networking solutions, Ubiquiti’s innovations provide clever mechanical design with ease of use to customers around the world. Its UniFi platform is a revolutionary enterprise networking system that combines businessclass performance, unlimited scalability, a centralised management controller and disruptive pricing.

The quick mobile setup allows for rapid deployment of access points across projects while the Ubiquiti remote access functionality makes it an ideal solution for the enterprise market and residential installers. Using the dashboard app, devices, clients, statistics, insights, alerts, events and detailed information on the project can be viewed and monitored. In addition, configuration and the upgrading of devices is accessible from almost anywhere in the world.

Ubiquiti’s Dream Machine, WiFi, Switching and Camera Security products are available to Midwich channel partners in the UK & Ireland starting today.

Ross Floyd, Divisional Director, Midwich, commented, “We are delighted to provide Ubiquiti’s professional grade IP networking solutions to our

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channel partners in the UK & Ireland. Ubiquiti’s products are well known in the enterprise and custom install industry and have earned a formidable reputation as an easy-to-use solution for powerful and reliable networks builds.”

Midwich midwich.com A network of solutions from Midwich and Ubiquiti

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FINALLY NO COMPROMISE “The most impressive invisible speakers I’ve heard... they represent a real step forward in plaster-over loudspeaker performance.”

Steve Barrett, SMC

APRIL 2021 09

High performing, audio video connectivity delivered in plastic free packaging

experience different with Visit www.aura-av.com to find out more Email: aura@mayflex.com Call: 0800

75 75 65

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NEWS

TASCAM CELEBRATES 50 YEARS IN THE MUSIC BUSINESS! Tascam, a leading provider of audio solutions for musicians, engineers, broadcast professionals and AV system integrators, has announced that 2021 marks the company’s 50th anniversary.

The company that arguably invented the revolutionary home studio has strongly influenced the way people make music and sound with its products. From the 4-track Portastudio to the Emmy Award-winning DA-88 digital multitrack recorder, on to the company’s Model series recording mixers and beyond, Tascam has helped redefined audio production at all levels – from the home enthusiast to high-end production facilities and leading installations around the world.

As the professional audio division of TEAC Corporation, Tascam’s heritage dates back to the late 1960s when the Tani brothers – both engineers – and Dr. Abe, a senior engineer at TEAC, formed a special R&D group named TASC (TEAC Audio Systems Corp.) for the purpose of researching ways to apply TEAC’s recording technology to musicians and recording studios.

In 1971, Tascam (TASC AMerica Corp.) was established for the purpose of distributing TASC products in the USA and conducting additional market research. Then in 1974, Tascam was absorbed by the rapidly growing TEAC Corp. of America sales and distribution company, and Tascam became the official brand name of all TEAC recording products designed specifically for musicians and recording studios.

The Tascam name has a rich history – both in terms of the company’s technological achievements and the artists and engineers who have used Tascam products. The Tascam 80-8 tape deck was a

half-inch, open-reel 8-track audio recorder. It was used to record the voices of R2-D2 and C-3PO in the making of Star Wars, A New Hope, in 1977.

Bruce Springsteen initiated a home recording revolution using Tascam. With the help of his friend and guitar tech Mike Batlan, The Boss used a Portastudio 144 to record what would ultimately become 1982’s album Nebraska.

Over the course of 2021, there are a variety of promotions planned where music aficionados will have the opportunity to expand their equipment arsenals. And of course, Tascam will introduce new products in 2021 and beyond that address a wide range of applications.

TASCAM tascam.eu TASCAM celebrates half a century!

THE TRANSDUCERS: Custom designed Wave Flex mid/ hf driver; Air Flex carbon-fibre woofer driving a chamber of air behind the diaphragm.

FINALLY NO COMPROMISE

DEADLINE FOR CEDIA PROJECT SUBMISSIONS EXTENDED Time to enter the CEDIA Awards has been extended

The deadline to enter the 2021 CEDIA Awards programme has been extended to June 4. The CEDIA Awards programme accepts entries in the following categories: Best Home Cinema; Best Media Room; Best Integrated Home; Best Auto, Marine, or Aircraft; Best Multiple Dwelling Unit and Best Showroom.

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CEDIA says that whilst the stream of entries has been brisk so far, several members have commented that the global pandemic has hindered access to clients’ homes or caused product shipment delays.

To address these challenges, the entry deadline has been extended. Integrators can now submit their work for consideration in multiple categories for qualified projects completed between March 2019 and June 4, 2021.

Also, and new for 2021, to increase accessibility, members are permitted to enter project photography captured by non-professional (via the homeowner, for example) means. Professional, higher-resolution images can be provided after the submission deadline for those projects that will receive a case study and be featured in the CEDIA Awards Yearbook. Awards programme details and costs are available online at cedia.net/awards.

The new Sonance speakers are the best I’ve heard in years, and they’re invisible!! We will recommend these on every job” Rhian Barnett, Affinitive AV

watch the video

CEDIA cedia.net/awards

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APRIL 2021 11

NEWS

TRIAX AND HOIST GROUP ENTER STRATEGIC PARTNERSHIP Hoist Group and TRIAX today announced the signing of a strategic partnership agreement. The agreement, titled Connecting Excellence, gives Hoist Group preferential access to end-to-end TRIAX technology that maximises hotels’ existing coaxial cable networks for the best possible DVB-TV, IPTV and gigabit data distribution.

Hotels increasingly find that guest satisfaction is determined by their experience of hotel technology.

Hoist’s goal of turning stays into returns is achieved by offering amongst others high quality, reliable TV and high-speed internet. TRIAX provides innovative technology to achieve this with a comprehensive portfolio that includes advanced headend and connectivity solutions.

In the agreement, the parties acknowledge their shared values of high quality, reliability and innovation.

These will be advanced further by combining knowhow, training, service, support and supply terms.

Hoist Group’s 20 EMEA regional offices will interface directly with local TRIAX leadership in nine subsidiaries, with the goal of offering TV and connectivity solutions of superior reliability, performance and value to the hospitality sector and their guests.

Annika Rydström, COO at Hoist Group, commented, “Hotels and wider hospitality providers

across EMEA turn to Hoist Group for most of their tech requirements. We take this trust and responsibility seriously and reflect it in our investment in innovation. Be it through our inhouse R&D or through partnerships – innovation and superior quality stay at the top of our priorities. Partnering with TRIAX contributes to this priority and I am looking forward to seeing the results of this synergy.”

Peter Lyhne Uhrenholt, TRIAX CEO, said, “This partnership creates a natural synergy between two quality- and customer-focussed companies and we are thrilled to be a preferred connectivity partner to Hoist Group. Hotels will benefit from TRIAX’s costeffective and environmentally friendly solutions which offer the speed and reliability demanded by Hoist Group for their leading hospitality solutions.”

ESSENTIAL PEOPLE tvONE, designer and manufacturer of cutting-edge video and multimedia processing equipment, is honouring long-serving Regional Sales Manager, Alan Greenfield, who recently celebrated his 30th anniversary working with tvONE. Alan began his tvONE career on March 3, 1991, working in production and since then has served as Regional Sales Manager for the UK, Ireland and Benelux. Alan also recently celebrated the largest ever CORIOmaster mini order this January. tvONE’s Director of EMEA Sales, Frithjof Becker was excited to commend Alans’s dedication to tvONE customers and thanked him for his three decades of service and loyalty.

12 APRIL 2021

“We’re excited to celebrate Alan reaching the 30th anniversary milestone,” said Frithjof. “Alan embodies the traits that help make tvONE a leader in our industry. His hard work, commitment to customers, and care for detail is highly valued.”

First hired into Vine Micros by Chief of Technology, Richard Mallet, Alan has weathered many changes over time and has been a continuous, stable presence for customers in his region for three decades, always playing a key role in delivering successful projects to his regions.

Richard added, “Alan continues to set the example of hard work and dedication to our company.

His experience and talents are invaluable to us and to our customers.”

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2020

Cover the Ground with Sound For every all-weather application and project challenge, you’ll love the answer from Sonance Consistently voted No.1 outdoor speaker supplier In-Wall • On-Wall • In-Ground • On-Ground

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201 9

ESSENTIAL AWE

INTELLIGENT MOVES FROM AWE AND SONY

Thanks to distribution deals between AWE and Sony, AWE is the go-to supplier for the very latest Sony screens and projectors. With 2021 launches underway, AWE provides a summary of what the new models offer both integrators and their customers.

WORLD’S FIRST COGNITIVE INTELLIGENCE TV Sony has unveiled a large selection of TVs for 2021, with screens sizes ranging from 32in to 100in and everything in between.

One of the standout screens is the flagship BRAVIA XR MASTER A90J 4K HDR OLED TV. Available in 55in, 65in and 83in, the A90J features some core technologies that set it apart from the competition, including the Cognitive Processor XR, which makes this the world’s first cognitive intelligence TV. This revolutionary processor understands how humans see and hear, providing an experience that completely immerses viewers in their favourite content and takes vision and sound to a new level. Powered by cognitive intelligence, the screen is divided into multiple zones, which allows it to detect where the focal point is in the picture. The processor crossanalyses an array of elements at once, just as human brains do, allowing the elements to be adjusted in conjunction with each other for best final outcome. It also analyses sound position in the signal to ensure the audio matches precisely with what’s on the screen, and upconverts it to 3D surround sound to deliver supreme realism with an immersive soundscape. The result is a well

14 APRIL 2021

synchronised and lifelike scene – something that conventional AI cannot achieve.

The other key technology within the A90J is BRAVIA CORE, Sony’s own streaming service, which allows users to enjoy a selection of the latest Sony Pictures Entertainment premium and classic titles and the largest IMAX Enhanced collection. BRAVIA CORE is the first in the industry to feature Pure Stream technology, achieving near lossless UHD BD equivalent quality with streaming up to 80 Mbps.

This model is the first screen to incorporate IMAX Enhanced to deliver IMAX remastered picture and immersive audio by DTS.

LARGE SCREEN AT AN AFFORDABLE PRICE POINT Sony is opening the large screen market up to a wider audience by launching a 100in model at a much more affordable price point.

The 100in BRAVIA 4K Ultra HD HDR Professional Display incorporates the same high-quality picture processor as Sony’s BRAVIA televisions. It creates immersive pictures that combine amazing colour, contrast, clarity and smooth motion using the Cognitive Processor XR. The FW-100BZ40J accesses and utilises a vast amount of data, analysing patterns in scenes and recreating subtle details to upscale

2K signals close to true 4K quality for incredibly real and immersive viewing.

Sony’s LED XR X-Motion Clarity technology ensures that the picture is always smooth, bright and clear, even during fast-moving scenes.

Each frame is individually controlled, and its duration optimised, while brightness is boosted when needed. This large screen achieves high brightness of 600-nit (typical)/940-nit (peak) by the Full Array Local Dimming backlight.

LARGE SCALE MICRO-LED DISPLAY Sony’s modular Crystal LED C-series (ZRDC12A/C15A) provides high contrast of 1,000,000:1 and delivers highly realistic large-scale imagery that maintains image integrity close-up and at a distance. Available in P1.26mm pixel pitch size, the display combines high image quality, flexibility and scalability in installation, with a lower price point.

The new display features the newly developed, X1 for Crystal LED image quality processor, which incorporates the latest LED control technology with the signal processing technology in Sony’s BRAVIA TV series.

Via technologies such as Reality Creation, Motionflow and 22bit Super Bit Mapping, the C-series provides upscaled content that is of high-resolution, smooth and artifact-free, and

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ESSENTIAL AWE

This flagship projector incorporates a newly

showcases impressive gradation expression.

Designed to be flexible, long-lasting and easy

developed 0.74in native 4K SXRD panel with

to install, the display is comprised of modular,

improved light stability and a new laser light

seamless and bezel-free tiles that can scale

source using a red laser diode in addition to

to accommodate a range of sizes, layouts

the two different-wavelength blue laser diodes.

and resolutions.

This enables the model to achieve an impressive 10,000 lumens and a wide colour gamut of

NATIVE 4K HOME CINEMA PROJECTOR

100% DCI-P3 without any loss of brightness.

With low acoustic noise and compact chassis,

Sony’s VPL-GTZ380 is the world’s most

this industry-leading projector offers flexible

advanced projector and is designed to deliver

installation possibilities.

the ultimate HDR visual experience in high-end home cinemas and living rooms.

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The VPL-GTZ380 projector also features X1 Ultimate for projector. The incredible power of

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this video engine enables vast data processing with real-time enhancement for each individual on-screen object, resulting in true high dynamic range imagery, with texture, colour, contrast and realism.

The AWE team is currently working on upgrading its Reference Cinema Room to feature this model and is encouraging integrators to pre-book demos now for when the showroom reopens. To book a slot, visit https://aweeuro.pe/VisitAWEHQ. AWE awe-europe.com

APRIL 2021 15

ESSENTIAL PULSE CINEMAS

PARADIGM LAUNCHES THE FOUNDER SERIES Here at Pulse Cinemas we are excited to introduce a new range from Canadian audio specialist Paradigm.

The Founder Series is a six-model range of premium loudspeakers that bring high-end performance and luxurious style to home cinema and Hi-Fi systems.

The Founder Series is the first completely new speaker line to be introduced since Paradigm founder Scott Bagby reacquired the company two years ago. Though it draws on nearly 40 years of Paradigm innovation and evolution from the award-winning flagship Persona range, it brings a host of new technologies to its driver designs, cabinet construction and even the hardware that holds it all together.

Designed, tested, engineered and manufactured at Paradigm’s state-of-the-art 225,000 square foot facility in Toronto, Canada, the new series includes three floorstanders, the Founder 80F, Founder 100F and the hybrid active/ passive Founder 120H with ARC Genesis room correction; along with the Founder 40B standmount, Founder 90C centre and

Founder 70LCR which can be installed vertically or horizontally. The Founder Series offers anyone looking for great sound the ultimate in flexibility when it comes to system building.

“The Founder Series is a strong accomplishment for Paradigm. We are combining an iconic design, sound that has astounding clarity along with a delicate and believable realism and a sonic impact that will send shivers down your spine.” Says Scott Bagby, Founder and CEO, “I am immensely proud of our development teams’ devotion to produce a line that clearly exceeds all expectations.”

All models are available in a choice of four artisan-grade finishes – Walnut or Black Walnut fine-quality wood veneer and Midnight Cherry or Piano Black high gloss. Paradigm’s patented technologies are developed completely in-house and along with obsessive attention to detail and exhaustive testing, deliver dynamic, detailed and lifelike performance that out-performs higher-priced products.

Commenting on the new range, John Soden, VP of International Sales, says, “Pleasing both the stereo and home theatre enthusiast, the Founder Series should serve as a reminder that exceptional audio performance does matter.”

NEW TECHNOLOGIES

AL-MAC High-Frequency Driver Paradigm’s newest tweeter design is made lighter and stronger with a special combination of aluminium, magnesium and ceramic materials.

It has a natural resistance to uncontrolled resonance that makes it far more accurate and responsive than other designs. It’s paired with a special Oblate Spherical Waveguide (OSW) that maintains sonic focus on the listening area. This makes it perfect for large, open-plan rooms with reflective surfaces like windows and

16 APRIL 2021

hardwood floors. It doesn’t just sound good on paper, it performs in the real world.

AL-MAG Midrange Driver Founder’s midrange driver is developed with listener sensitivity in mind. Focusing its performance where our ears are most sensitive, the cone is a 6in Aluminium Magnesium alloy driven with a 2in multi-layered voice coil and a Perforated Phase Alignment (PPA) lens.

The result is unparalleled realism and accuracy.

Carbon-X Unibody Bass Driver To maintain clarity in the lowest frequencies, Paradigm has created an ultra-stiff, ultra-strong bass driver called CARBON-X in 5.5, 6, 7 and 8in sizes. It is made from mineral-infused carbon fiber and moulded as a single piece to maintain control at the highest volumes. Combined with Paradigm’s patented over-moulded Active Ridge Technology (ART) surround and Advanced Shock-Mount Isolation hardware, it is both detailed and powerful.

Dual-Sync Continuous Flux Motor Both the 90C and 70LCR models use a coaxial driver with an AL-MAC tweeter centrally mounted in an AL-MAG midrange cone profiled to match the sonic characteristics of the OSW designs in the rest of the series.

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ESSENTIAL PULSE CINEMAS

THE FOUNDER LINE-UP

Here, Paradigm’s patent-pending Dual-Sync Continuous Flux Motor solves the issues associated with drivers that have combined magnet structures, resulting in a low-distortion, high-output midrange/tweeter combination.

Cascade Fusion Bracing In place of the traditional square cabinet geometry, each Founder Series model features a faceted enclosure, constructed from ¾in MDF and 1in thick top and bottom insets. The bracing is fused directly into the walls of the cabinet, then the cabinet is folded around the frame as a single piece. The angular longitudinal central brace forms a structural core while dividing the walls of the cabinet into non-uniform surfaces.

The Founder 40B Standmount Loudspeaker delivers the innovation and performance of the Founder Series in an affordable and compact cabinet that’s less than 20cm wide. A 1in AL-MAC Ceramic Dome Tweeter with an OSW Waveguide and PPA Lens renders crystal-clear detail and imaging. A 6in Ultra-High-Excursion AL-MAG mid/bass driver with a PPA Lens and Active Ridge Technology (ART) Surround provides the foundation for a broad and deep soundstage. An optional stand is available.

The 70LCR is a highly capable loudspeaker that can be used both horizontally as a compact centre channel or vertically as a main stereo or surround unit. Its three-way sealed cabinet is populated with a 1in AL-MAC Ceramic Dome Tweeter with OSW Waveguide and PPA Lens coaxially mounted in a 7in AL-MAG midrange driver flanked by two 5.5in CARBON-X bass drivers with ART Surrounds.

The 90C Centre Channel Loudspeaker is a true full-range centre that can play down to 47Hz in-room. Its 1in AL-MAC Ceramic Dome Tweeter with OSW Waveguide and PPA Lens is coaxially mounted in a 7in AL-MAG midrange driver flanked by two 7in CARBON-X bass drivers and two 7in passive radiators with Active Ridge Technology (ART) Surrounds to ensure powerful dialogue delivery from its slender cabinet. An optional stand is available.

The Founder 80F Floorstanding Loudspeaker is the most affordably priced tower model in the line. It features a 1in AL-MAC Ceramic Dome Tweeter with OSW waveguide and a PPA Lens; a 6in Ultra-High-Excursion AL-MAG mid/ bass driver with PPA Lens and Active Ridge Technology (ART) Surround; and two 6in UltraHigh-Excursion CARBON-X Cones with overmoulded ART Surrounds. Its two-and-a-half way design can reach down to a subterranean 28Hz.

The Founder 100F Floorstanding Loudspeaker brings even more bass with three 7in Ultra-High-Excursion CARBON-X Cones with over-moulded Active Ridge Technology (ART) Surrounds. The midrange driver is a 6in AL-MAG Cone with a Resonance Mitigation Coupler, PPA Lens and 2in high-temp voice coil. Detailed highs come from a 1in AL-MAC Ceramic Dome Tweeter with OSW Waveguide and PPA Lens.

The Founder Series flagship is the 120H Floorstanding Loudspeaker. The driver complement includes a 1in AL-MAC Ceramic Dome Tweeter with OSW Waveguide and patented PPA Lens; a 7in midrange AL-MAG Cone with a Resonance Mitigation Coupler, PPA Lens and 2in high-temp voice coil; and three 8in Ultra-High-Excursion CARBON-X Cones with Active Ridge Technology (ART) Surrounds driven by an integrated 1,000-watt amplifier. Its built-in ARC Genesis Room Correction delivers bass down to 18Hz that sounds precise and controlled in any room.

We are excited to be part of this next chapter in the Paradigm story in the UK. As the Paradigm brand continues to grow year on year in the UK, not only through their use in a very large number of premium and high-end home cinema and multi-room installations, but more traditional two-channel systems too. We must not forget that historically they are known for building extremely high-performance two-channel products at very competitive price points. The new Founder series is a serious challenger to the traditional homegrown brands in offerings stunning visual appearance and a performance level usually found in far more expensive solutions. Get in touch to find out more.

Pulse Cinemas pulsecinemas.com

These surfaces are reinforced by additional horizontal cascade braces in optimal locations to further prevent excess energy from escaping through the walls of the cabinet. Unlike the rest of the technologies, the Founder cabinet is meant to be seen and NOT heard.

Advanced Shock-Mount Isolation System To control driver to cabinet and cabinet to floor resonance, Paradigm has developed the Advanced

Shock-Mount

Isolation

system.

Special hardware with an elastomer suspension mechanically decouples the driver from the cabinet. Advanced Shock-Mount Feet on floorstanding models isolate the entire cabinet from the floor using the same elastomer to prevent any extraneous vibration from colouring the sound. The feet include hardware for both carpet and hard flooring and are adjustable from above, eliminating any need to move or tip the cabinet.

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APRIL 2021 17

ESSENTIAL HABITECH

PUT THE PRO IN PROACTIVE When hospitality bounces back into business, your skills will be as relevant to clubs, bars and restaurants as they are to homeowners - and we’ll help you maximise their value says Habitech’s Technical Sales Manager John Perry.

It won’t be long before the shackles are off. If the COVID numbers stack up, UK hospitality will return to growth in April - because millions of stir-crazy Brits are gagging to spend surplus cash on a fine dining experience or a beer at the Pig and Firkin. The sector is poised to unwind from lockdown like a coiled spring, with PWC forecasting a surge in hotel occupancy nationwide, and pubs and restaurants reporting high demand for bookings - and that’s just for fresh air fun in chilly beer gardens after April 12. The good news for restaurateurs, hoteliers and bar owners is that, by definition, the ‘goingout’ experience is unavailable for home delivery, which is why the bounce-back is completely baked-in. The other good news is that if you’ve worked with Wi-Fi, AVoIP, IP and 100V line distribution, and you’re already preaching the gospel of discreet high performance, your business is more than ready to bounce with it.

FAMILIAR WAYS AND MEANS Today the world of commercial AV represents a huge opportunity for your skills, because both resi and commercial integrators are, increasingly, reaching for similar tools. You’re

for commercial distribution are finding traction

And when it comes to curating the perfect

in residential system design. Dante™ (Digital

ambience for intimate dining, your skill with the

Audio Network Through Ethernet) for example,

subtleties of Lutron’s lighting and blind control

is designed to carry hundreds of uncompressed

places you way ahead of trad CAV installers.

audio (and now JPEG2000-squeezed 4K video) channels over long distances with

AV MAGIC HOUR

minimal signal degradation using off-the-shelf

Distributing light of the 4K kind is as easy as

1Gbps Ethernet hardware. Ethernet switches

AVoIP with Wyrestorm’s Network HD - another

replace trad matrices and system expansion is

class act in the Habitech talent pool - alongside

a plug-and-play breeze, saving installation time

WatchGuard’s plug-and-play firewalls and

and cost. Cables no longer dictate how signals

Dahua’s networked security cameras and

run. Instead, all devices are plugged via CAT

NVRs, which will protect interests on both

into a standard network switch, and re-routing is

sides of the partnership. And for the best in

achieved using PC software, which auto-detects

Wi-Fi use the power of proven high client

devices on the network. Currently Dante is

density technologies from Ruckus to integrate

available in over 2,000 products from over 400

robust, scalable capacity up to 10G and Wi-Fi

manufacturers, including our Yamaha Pro line of

6 wherever it’s needed: believe me, your clients

processors and amplifiers, all with guaranteed

and their customers will love what Ruckus

interoperability over regular Ethernet. And who

can deliver. We’ll even provide Samsung’s

in CI would be a stranger to that?

spectacular new micro-LED displays to impart a heightened sense of video quality to the

ZONING IN

most upmarket venues inside and outside.

Other challenges will be as easy to fix. Zoning

In other words when you’re pulling the

audio and light levels for instance has been a

same design levers in hospitality AV as you do

primary skill in the resi repertoire since 1998.

in CI, we’ll help you drive through the gears

Today you can apply the same principles to

with outstanding product versatility combined

larger hospitality spaces by using Sonance’s

with the knowledge of decades from our new

extraordinary Pro series range of 70V/100V/8

team of old pros.

ohm

selectable

in-ceiling,

pendant

and

surface mount speakers, as well as its all-

large areas of a garden as you are around a

PUT THE PRO IN PROACTIVE

weather outdoor systems, designed to deliver

One of Habitech’s big plays has been to

bar or over a dance floor. While on the flip

exceptional fidelity at low and high volumes with

become as proficient at serving the pro AV

side, AV networking technologies designed

extremely low distortion and wide dispersion.

market as the CI sector. To this end we’ve

as likely to see 100V line distribution over

18 APRIL 2021

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ESSENTIAL HABITECH

complemented wider product choice with experienced personal - including me. Having grown up in the business and occupied senior positions in major pro AV brands, our guys know how the business ticks. This means that we’re able to help you apply your resi skills in a market that needs the things you’re good at. For instance, our new Lutron product and design specialist, Jorge Pereira, will soon be standing by to support your lighting design creativity in the hospitality sector. In true Habitech style, no stone is left unturned in the effort to deliver optimum value to you and your customers.

BESPOKE DESIGN PLANNING AND EXECUTION

We’ll supply EASE analysis of optimum speaker distribution and coverage along with Wi-Fi heatmaps, video and camera schematics, training and help with commissioning in support of every project.

From the get-go we’ll create a system design plan for your project with the aid of simulation software. It will detail such things as optimum speaker distribution and audio coverage per room/zone, video schematics, security camera positions and Wi-Fi coverage. We’ll identify the ideal hardware for the job and back it endto-end with our fabled technical support and product training - on site if necessary. Since March 2020, through lockdown hibernation, we’ve supported over twenty hospitality installs as an integral part of the design team.

Among those to benefit has been Exeter integrator ‘Intelligent Abodes’ whose work at Chef Michael Caines’ upcoming Mickeys Beach Bar and Restaurant in Exmouth involved

It’s one of many collaborations with the

the team, start to finish. And they always go the

systems of Dante enabled Yamaha Processing,

company and we’re delighted that MD Mark

extra mile as a reliable source of design ideas and

switching and amplification, as well as Sonance

Laird continues to value the results: “Timmi

fixes to help Lairds exceed client expectations.”

Pro Series surface, pendant, ceiling and

and the team at Habitech have been integral to

subwoofers, which spring from the plan with our

our business success to date. Their attention to

design assistance, EASE plots, support, training

detail, from the design process to the technical

and help with commissioning.

aspects of our projects and product knowledge,

At the other end of the UK we’re helping

has been invaluable. Although there are

Lairds of Troon with a multi-zone project

excellent niche providers out there, I can’t think

for an art deco bar in Glasgow’s Beresford

of a single supplier with greater commitment

building. Here our full product repertoire is

to end-to-end project support across the CI

deployed, including a Dante network of Yamaha

repertoire: AV networking, Wi-Fi, security, lights,

processing, amplification and control, Sonance

you name it. From initial consultation planning

Pro in-ceilings and subs, a large Wyrestorm

and prep, through on-the-spot technical back-

NHD video network, Dahua CCTV over three

up, commissioning and warranty processing,

floors and Ruckus Wi-Fi.

Habitech contributes as a proactive member of

GET READY FOR THE REBOUND Whatever your AV hardware and signal management needs, be they 10G SDVoE, AVoIP, or HDBaseT, we’re ready to back your project at every stage. So, if you’re seeking to diversify your business into the hospitality, leisure and retail sectors in 2021, we’ll prove that for CAV success it’s not what you know, or who you know, it’s both!

Habitech habitech.co.uk

Yamaha Pro’s Dante-enabled processors are part of the formidable pro AV product line up available from Habitech

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APRIL 2021 19

IDEAL ADVERTORIAL

IDEAL NETWORKS IS NOW ‘TREND NETWORKS’ Distributed in the AV channel by Avoke, IDEAL Networks, leading manufacturer of data cable, network and CCTV test equipment, will be known as TREND Networks from March 31st 2021.

The name change consolidates the company’s identity following the acquisition from IDEAL INDUSTRIES, Inc. more than two years ago. troubleshoot problems fast and will always be there for you. With a UK based design and technical team the ‘Depend On Us’ philosophy means that with TREND Networks customers can always rely on: • • •

For the name ‘TREND Networks’, the firm looks to its rich history in the field of testing and measurement. Trend Communications was a telecoms test equipment manufacturer founded in 1965. Over almost four decades, the company launched numerous innovations, from telegraph testers, to telex machines, data transmission analysers and ISDN testers.

Trend Communications was acquired by IDEAL Industries in 2004.

“Trend Communications was a leading business with a strong reputation and a dedication to delivering industry-firsts. Under the name TREND Networks, we share this same goal,” explains Paul Walsh, CEO for IDEAL Networks. “Our dedicated team remains unchanged and our products are unaffected by the name change – you will still have access to our full range of industry-leading solutions.”

TREND has developed the unique ‘Depend On Us’ philosophy – a cast-iron commitment to ensure that, even in the most challenging circumstances, they will support their products,

20 APRIL 2021

Dependable Results Dependable Equipment Dependable Support

Avoke has been working with TREND Networks for the past two years as a dedicated partner for the AV and Smart Building Sector.

Avoke’s team is focused on cable infrastructure and testing and with our own in-house expertise we have provided support and advice to many installers. We will be launching some training webinars shortly that will complement those provided by TREND. The SignalTEK 10G, launched this year, and the installers’ go-to favourite, the VDV II Pro, are typical of the comprehensive range TREND Networks offers.

The new SignalTEK 10G measures the maximum bandwidth of the network cabling up to 10 Gigabits per second. By simulating actual network traffic users can test, troubleshoot and document PoE 90 watt, network and data cable performance up to 10 Gigabit Ethernet standards. SignalTEK 10G has built-in Wi-Fi connectivity to connect seamlessly to the free AnyWARE Cloud project management system to save time and provide ‘proof of performance’ PDF reports for clients.

The VDV II PRO is an easy-to-use cable tester that checks the integrity of copper cables commonly found in residential and commercial installations, including video/security, data network and telephone wiring cabling.

The advanced wiremap engine accurately displays complex wiring faults instantaneously whilst TDR (Time Domain Reflectometry) aids troubleshooting and improves on-site productivity.

Please contact us for more information on the range via our website, www.avoke.co.uk, or email us on trend@avoke.co.uk

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Dream big.

Think bigger.

Here’s an annoying question—where do you see yourself in five years? How about tomorrow? It’s one thing to dream.

It’s even better to know. That’s why we’ve launched the CEDIA Academy online learning platform.

Carefully curated and masterfully designed courses cover every aspect of the home technology industry. It’s where beginners become experts, and experts become gurus.

Don’t just dream. Know.

Plug in at cediaacademy.net

ESSENTIAL PROJECTORS AND SCREENS

THE DYNAMIC DUO – PROJECTORS AND SCREENS Neil Davidson, co-founder of Display Technologies (DT), provides his insight into the status of the combination of projector and screen.

More high-quality cinematic content is available in the home than ever before

Providing high-quality screen products globally since we launched DT in 2016, right from the start we have endeavoured to produce cleverly designed real world problem solvers at our UK HQ and factory. We firmly believe that there is still nothing that is as well suited to our market as a projector and screen combination.

DT founders, Neil Davidson and Simon Ridley

Whilst fixed pixel displays such as TVs and LED Walls are getting ever larger and more prevalent, there is still nothing that competes with the flexibility and value presented by projection systems – especially when applied to dedicated cinema systems. The great news is that lock-down has led to an ever-increasing appreciation and demand for quality home entertainment and with more studios promising to deliver content ever closer to the release date, there is no reason that this demand should

22 APRIL 2021

The other key development made with

Unlike emissive displays like TVs, a projection system is a two-part solution where the overall quality of the experience is driven by both the projector and the projector screen. It is now almost five years since Display Technologies launched our first projection screen products The first element that most people consider but since day one, the goal has been to use novel and proprietary developments to deliver the very finest projection solutions. These developments in both image surfaces and the screen frames themselves have taken DT to the top of the international market in projection screens.

The first element that most people consider in a projection screen is the image surface itself.

Since launch the DT ATRef screen has delighted and amazed our customers and competitors alike. ATRef was one of the very first knitted projection surfaces on the market. This delivered significant benefits over woven screens such as minimal surface texture, resistance to tearing and greater stretch for easier install all whilst delivering even better image quality and acoustic transparency. ATRef remains unique in the market though in delivering the crispest white colour of its own. This was an important engineering choice as this colour tone ensures that the reflected whites from the screen are as bright and clear as possible yet without causing significant colour shift, in almost all cases significantly less than the yellowish base colour used by our competitors.

requiring the use of complex pre-sets or tedious on-site setup. Screen masking is often viewed as a non-essential feature in cinemas however this overlooks the impact that masking has on delivering the ultimate projection experience.

Most projectors are a 1.78 aspect – just like a TV – but more and more content shuns this aspect. Lots of Netflix content is in a wider 2.0 aspect meaning black bars at the top and bottom of a 1.78 screen and the new Justice League release was done in the 1.33 aspect so bars on the left and right of the screen. In systems with well implemented masking, these bars can be hidden and the image optimised.

When done well this is now a totally automated process that the user hardly even notices until the feature is not there. The improvement in the wall is really impressive and not something that can be matched by a TV! Projection systems are unique in allowing the shape and aspect to be varied to match the content. This is a standout feature in any high performance cinema, but also one which no longer needs to be challenging to specify or coupled with a perfect image surface the overall quality is still exceptional and the ideal choice for dedicated cinema rooms.

Display Technologies Ltd displaytechnologies.co.uk

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ESSENTIAL PROJECTORS AND SCREENS

THE PROJECTION POSITION Barry Sheldrick, Director of Sales at DbM, takes a look at the trends occurring inside the projectors and screens market.

The number of projection systems that we are being asked to design and specify are increasing, with the trend over the past two years has been towards larger screen sizes.

Five years ago, the average screen size in the UK was probably around 3m, but now seems to be 4m+, which is a huge increase in image surface area. Without a doubt, the increase in resolution that the greater availability of UHD content has given us has also enabled the move to the larger screen sizes.

We are seeing larger screens in similar sized rooms and a shift from a 45-degree viewing angle to a 50 or even 58-degree viewing angle in several projects. The visual impact of increasing the view angle is huge!

The image is more immersive, more engaging, and more lifelike for most people.

We’ve designed the front row of our Reference demonstration system to have a 58-degree viewing angle, whilst the rear row has a 45-degree viewing angle. This has proven invaluable when dealers have had their clients in for demonstration - as it helps the client to understand the impact of screen size versus

24 APRIL 2021

viewing distance, which really helps the dealer to be comfortable with the decision on what they are specifying.

Two key benefits of projection systems are that you can choose a screen size and ratio to the millimetre. With large format displays, you are usually given fixed sizes to work with due to how these displays are assembled.

With an acoustically transparent screen, you get perfect placement of the LCR’s behind the screen, (which really ramps up the immersion and dialogue delivery), tying the actor’s voices to their mouths on screen.

The final part is delivering true HDR, which doesn’t just mean brightness; HDR provides us with DCI P3 colour space as well. Just as calling video content ‘4K’ and focussing on pixels missed the contrast improvements of HDR, talking about the contrast and not the enhanced colour palette is also missing a key improvement over HD content.

The DCI/P3 colour spaced gives a huge improvement in colour saturation, making the images have more depth and look more lifelike.

The challenge is having a projector display with

this increased colour palette. This requires even more light output or a discrete RGB light source, both of which we are more than happy to support you with when designing your projects.

When you combine the ability to deliver DCI colours, in multiple aspect ratios, in millimetre size increments and with perfect placement of your LCR’s, it is easy to see why projection systems are so loved in dedicated cinema spaces.

We’ve also been specifying a number of innovative ways to conceal the projectors with the use of mirror systems, which has really made it much simpler to deploy these systems.

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courtesy of Perfect Integration

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Njord features a pleasing and uniform image with the power to overcome rooms with high ambient light also making it the ideal choice for larger screens, outdoor entertainment spaces, and contemporary glass home designs, delivering an unbelievably bright and detailed image with spectacular color fidelity for an unmatched experience that will delight even the most discerning clients.

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Contact our sales team for more information and to arrange a demonstration at the Smart Hub Contact our sales team for more Contact Contact information ourour sales sales team team for and for more more to information arrange information and and a to demonstration to arrange arrange a demonstration a demonstration at the at at thethe Smart Smart Smart Hub Hub Hub

01992 445 122 |

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ESSENTIAL PROJECTION AND SCREENS FEATURE

CHRONICLE OF A DEATH FORETOLD Tim Sinnaeve, Managing Director, Barco Residential, gives his opinion on the future health of the partnership between projectors and screens.

In my opinion and paraphrasing Mark Twain (who by the way was an early investor in new technology), “The report of projection’s death is an exaggeration.” Or to put it less diplomatically, a travesty! While exciting new(er) technologies have come to the market, like direct view LED, they do not replace, but complement projection as a key technology to create large, immersive images. This will remain true when these technologies become more cost-effective, since cost is not the only factor in creating a ‘tipping point’ for a newish technology.

It is of course natural for us technology companies to be focused on creating new technologies and comparing specs and pushing the envelope on the ‘next big thing’. But that also makes it easy to lose track of what it is that we are trying to achieve or bring to our clients.

At Barco Residential we see our mission as, ‘creating architectural digital canvases that enable the most immersive entertainment and cultural experiences in luxury homes for customers to share with loved ones’. While in our industry home cinema tends to be a primary focus, it is but one of these experiences, with exciting opportunities in high end gaming, new media art and wellness.

From a technology perspective, the different technologies we use to create our digital canvas can enable different experiences and projection remains a critical ingredient. Take a recent project we worked on for example, the Atlanta Show Home, illustrated below. A giant digital art canvas was created, using powerful projection, with the projector completely hidden behind a wall. When the art installation was not active, the wall reverted to just a wall, and during the day the light reflected from the pool onto that same wall became almost like a natural sundial for an entirely different experience. Now imagine having used direct view LED instead for this project, leaving aside for a moment the current cost factor, as well as the structural nightmare this would have entailed, can you imagine a giant black hole as the centre piece of your home when the art installation is not active? And of course, there would have been no natural sundial either…

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In another project, we used direct view LED to create a custom new media art digital canvas, integrated into custom design furniture that was a centre piece in a light-flooded living room. The specific circumstances and design objectives of the artwork made direct view LED the material of choice to create our digital canvas in this case. And no, the highest possible resolution was not the driver, but rather the desired texture (or artist intent) of the artwork, with the corresponding dot pitch chosen to enable this.

You can discuss about specific cases of course, and sometimes two different technologies can both be viable options.

Different things can come into play. Many people feel that projection makes for a more cinematic experience also influenced by the history of cinema and film making. This is completely aside from more ‘scientific’ technical considerations like sound transparency for screens for example.

That being said, the better the ingredients, the better experience we can create. So, it is important that we keep pushing the envelope there as well. Further advancements in this area, beyond a sometimes-singular focus on resolution, like HDR for example, are important

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and further improve our palette of technologies to create even better experiences. But things like architectural integration and enabling architects and designers are at least as important, so for our part you will see that we also put a lot of emphasis on that as well in our technology developments.

With the architectural integration features built into our projectors, and complementary solutions by some of our partners, projection can allow you to ‘push over the wall’ for example and create a life-size ‘Window on the World’ taking away the very notion of screen, without being left with that big black hole we talked about when it’s just a wall. This not only opens a whole new world for our customers, but also for our industry.

Which also brings us to screen technology as an important ingredient. Architects and Designers are very familiar with creating fabric walls. A small step then to use acoustically transparent woven screen materials as the wall fabric which will come natural to the design community.

In conclusion, I firmly believe that projection remains a key technology and innovative ‘design material’ to create unique experiences for our clients enabled by fully integrated solutions that perfectly complement the design and architecture of any residence.

APRIL 2021 27

ESSENTIAL PROJECTORS AND SCREENS

SCREEN TEST Chris Mullins, Product Manager Home Cinema, Simulation & Entertainment at Sony, answers some of the key questions facing the projector and screen markets.

Consumer choice is going to start driving the shape of the home cinema market more strongly

Still the best way to get an impressive large image, or are other technologies catching up?

For a truly immersive experience, whether this be in your home cinema, games room or at the local art gallery (or planetarium), projectors offer the best large-format edge-to-edge experience.

Of course, there are other technologies which offer exceptional quality while being large image formats, for example; we recently announced our 100in BRAVIA TV, as well as new products within our Crystal LED line up. There are different technologies for every case depending on the setting, requirements and budget. When it comes to cost effectiveness and practicality of getting an image of 100in+ - the projector is best positioned to bring this immersive large-format image for a cinema-quality experience right in the home.

Is acceptance of these products in the home growing?

Considering the COVID-19 pandemic, there has been a significant period of growth for the residential market. With us spending more time at home than ever before and cinemas

28 APRIL 2021

closing their doors, this is hardly surprising.

Subsequently, we’ve been investing a lot more to upgrade our home entertainment set-ups, utilising our latest processing power across the range. With that in mind, and with a lot of major sporting events set to return in 2021, we think the demand will continue to grow throughout the year.

One benefit of using a projector in the home is that it can be designed for discrete installation. The projector can be hidden in a lift, a roller screen can be rolled away. When you combine this with discrete speaker installation, your impressive large screen display can be there only when you need it, so it needn’t be a huge design burden in the sleek, modern home.

Is the revelation in enhanced imaging (4K HRD etc) helping the sector?

Image quality is key when it comes to customers choosing a projector, and for integrator and custom installation partners choosing which products to offer their clients. So yes - being able to bring the quality of projection up to that which we find with TV screens is propelling this sector into new realms.

More than just movies? What changes in trends are we seeing in the use of projectors and screens; general viewing, streaming content, special events, social media, gaming, display of artwork, is what these systems are used for changing?

It’s possible that we’ll see more investment particularly in multipurpose applications for gaming or golf/driving simulators with users bringing these immersive experiences into their own homes. With improved input reduction lag technology, more and more gamers are starting to view projectors as a great option for bigscreen gameplay, too.

As we see entertainment and culture venues reopening after the pandemic forced their doors shut, planetariums, museums and art galleries will be looking to offer the public the very best in rich and immersive experiences – something which the latest cutting-edge projectors can certainly deliver on.

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PROJECTORS AND SCREENS

SCREEN IDOLS Chris Dawson, Screen Innovations product manager at Invision, smart home distributor, explains why projector screens enable projection to be a great choice for home entertainment.

It was estimated that the average Brit watched more than 22.5 hours of television per week in 2021. With an increased desire for excellent entertainment without the need to leave home, choosing the right technology for the environment is paramount.

Due to advances in technology, customer awareness and varying market conditions, the custom installation market is constantly evolving.

As an industry, we rely on manufacturers to respond to these changes and provide innovative solutions to meet the demands of customers.

To accommodate this consumer demand, the availability of ever-increasing sizes of flat screen TVs carries on apace. Despite this, two-part projection continues to thrive due, (in no small part), to the developments in projector screen technology.

Regardless of projector price and quality, the final image viewed is determined by the screen and the viewing environment. Therefore, the choice of screen material and the screen design are critical to meet customer expectations.

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In dedicated home cinema installations, screen materials must meet the requirements of the latest Ultra HD 4K and 8K projectors by providing high resolution images as well as being acoustically transparent, to allow for the perfect placement of speakers for today’s immersive audio formats.

Two-part projection was once the preserve of dedicated, blacked out cinema rooms but the demand for extra large screens now encompasses a multitude of locations within the home. Projector screen development has risen to the challenge with projection systems now being a viable option in almost any area.

Control of ambient light within the viewing area has always been a prerequisite for projection installations to avoid destroying black levels and hence picture quality. The development of Ambient Light Rejection (ALR) materials has enabled a dramatic improvement in contrast and black levels to be achieved giving a great quality picture previously not achievable with room lights on or in daytime viewing.

This opens up opportunities for installation in lounges, kitchen areas, media rooms etc. that were previously not possible.

As the screen materials expand the areas within a home that screens can be used, the case design and aesthetics have to be addressed to

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match these new environments. Fixed frame models are now available with slim edge frames which are more elegant, similar in looks to a large TV, and some offer the option of LED lighting surrounds to enhance the design aesthetic.

Traditional on-wall and in-ceiling cases have been joined by drop models with slimmer, more elegant cases and the option of colour finishes to match the décor have been introduced.

Even models with battery operated motors are available that address the need for transportable units that can be fitted in outdoor areas for use then packed away.

One spectacular solution is a ‘levitating’ screen.

Rather than a large area of black material above the image area, the screen is lowered on barely visible fine wires, up to 4.8 metres (16 feet), giving the illusion of hanging in space. The extra-long drop makes them suitable for very high ceilings in both residential and commercial applications.

With no material above the screen area - these screens look amazing in front of windows, artwork and indramatic architectural spaces.

This combined development of screen materials and aesthetic designs changes the priority of layout and positioning from being determined by the screen itself to being able to install the screen where it best suits the design of the room.

APRIL 2021 31

ESSENTIAL 2N

REVOLUTION IN ACCESS CONTROL Get ready to adorn your office projects with the 2N Access Unit M. The new generation of the 2N Access Unit M is based on unique patented Bluetooth-based mobile access technology that is twice as fast and more secure than RFID options says its creator. Mobile access is now the benchmark for office entry systems as employees are demanding faster, simpler and more secure access to their offices. Research already indicates that, for more than four in ten office workers, the preferred method for storing access credentials is their smartphone. The new smart access control unit is has been created to be the ideal reader for offices and sets a new benchmark in speed, reliability and security for mobile access control.

The new 2N Access Unit M provides multi-technology access control which makes it much easier for property developers, distributors and installers to provide multifactor authentication options for buildings.

Choices now include RFID, RFID combined with mobile access via Bluetooth, or RFID with a keypad, which is perfect for projects that require two-factor authentication.

This breakthrough technology means faster access with more robust building security. In

32 APRIL 2021

addition, the device’s built-in controller ensures that property owners and companies have a smooth transition to next-generation Bluetoothbased mobile access technology which is the foundation for adopting much quicker, easier, safer and more flexible access solutions in the future.

THE FASTEST AND MOST SECURE MOBILE ACCESS. With the new Bluetooth technology, users need only 0.3 seconds to authenticate. What’s more, the maker says this is the most secure method of access on the market. Users only need the 2N Mobile Key application, which turns their smartphone into an access card. They can then enter the door by pressing a button in the application or by simply touching the reader.

The reading distance between the mobile and the access unit can be adjusted, as well as the opening mode. The unit also guarantees security. Encrypted communication, support for the 802.1x protocol and protection against cyberattacks are standard features.

TIMELESS DESIGN AND QUICK INSTALLATION

2N Access Unit M’s compact, slimline design fits aesthetically with different door frames and its attractive glass front panel, which has a five-year scratch-free guarantee, completes an elegant design solution for different office building and lift access control needs. The new unit is fitted to door frames in minutes, requires minimal office cabling and can be configured and administered remotely, so access system installation and office fit-out times are accelerated. Manufactured in the Czech Republic from hard-wearing materials, and with a protection rating of IP55 and IK7, the 2N Access Unit M is well suited to outdoor and harsh environment applications.

EASY TO CONFIGURE AND MANAGE

The 2N OS makes the 2N Access Unit M exceptionally smart. The new access control unit can easily be set up directly through the web interface or remotely using the 2N Remote Configuration cloud service. This means that administrators and facility managers don’t

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ESSENTIAL 2N

need to go through a complicated set up with routers and firewalls. This solution saves space and, equally importantly, time and money. For larger installations, the access control unit can be configured and managed by 2N Access Commander. This is professional administration software with a well-arranged graphical interface and intuitive control. Through the user interface, access permissions and specific functions are set in bulk, such as who has access to specific doors or zones. It also provides the option to add a time and attendance system which records the attendance of employees and can be viewed via the web interface.

THE FOUR NEW READER OPTIONS

2N Access Unit M RFID 13.56 MHz – able to read most cards at 13.56 MHz frequency, this version of the 2N Access Unit M RFID reader

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suits companies that prefer traditional RFID technology. Employees who don’t want to use a card simply use their mobile phone to gain access.

2N Access Unit M RFID Multifrequency – the Multifrequency RFID card reader scans cards at frequencies of 125 kHz and 13.56 MHz – handy where multiple companies are in one building and sharing certain areas.

2N Access Unit M Bluetooth & RFID – using Bluetooth technology, the 2N Access Unit M Bluetooth & RFID reader is billed as the fastest and most secure access option for modern offices – combining access by card or mobile.

Employees open doors with their mobile phone using the 2N Mobile Key app – either by tapping a button in the app or the reader itself with their phone left in their pocket. Non-Bluetooth fans can always open the door using an RFID card.

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2N Access Unit M Touch Keypad & RFID – the 2N Access Unit M Touch Keypad & RFID is ideal for buildings demanding two-factor authentication – with access through a PIN code and RFID card. During working hours, employees can swipe their RFID cards; PIN code entry is needed out of hours. The unit reads cards with frequencies of 125 kHz and 13.56 MHz and allows one-off access codes to be generated for visitors.

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APRIL 2021 33

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ESSENTIAL CEDIA

KNX IN THE HOME Pip Evans, Director of CEDIA Member of Excellence NV Integration, examines the possibilities presented by KNX. KNX is often mistaken as a product, but it is an open platform – it’s like a language.

Products use the KNX language to communicate with each other and this blows the playing field wide open. You have hundreds of manufacturers making thousands of products, meaning that there is always the right puzzle piece needed for every project so that you can design a very modular and flexible system.

KNX has been around for over 30 years.

I think, (historically), it was aimed at the commercial market - as you can have up to 61,000 devices in a project. However, the products are not commercially focussed or commercially minded in terms of aesthetics.

It’s much wider than that, meaning that just as the products would work well in a Private Members Club or a 5-star hotel, they will also suit a very prestigious home or a block of luxury flats.

Like most CEDIA integrators, we came to KNX from the AV and IT side, our reason for exploring the options with KNX is through the need we have in being able to deliver more.

KNX opens the doors to so many possibilities.

In our projects, we usually feature both centralised and decentralised systems. We pride ourselves in offering our clients unbiased

36 APRIL 2021

consultancy to provide them with the system that’s right for them. So, if we are working on a full house system, we are still going to have a headend, we are still going to have a centralised network system and we are still going to have our decentralised aspects as well.

As an integrator, you need to be multiskilled. If we went into a project and just said that (we are here to sell you a KNX system), then we would probably lose a lot of jobs because some people might want to have more than that KNX system is capable of. Being a good integrator is about being a good multitasker and picking the right bolt-ons for the right project.

When it comes to deciding between whether to use a server or a KNX distributed approach, it’s dependent on each project. We have found that we are using servers more and more in different shapes and sizes. However, the important thing to remember is that because it’s a decentralised system, whether you have that server or not, each device carries a piece of intelligence. As long as you have designed and commissioned the system in the correct and proper fashion to make sure that the systems will talk to each other without the brain in the middle, then the homeowner can have the confidence that the system will carry on working even if the server goes down.

Going forward, I think there’s a lot of going on around wellness and people placing more value and importance on their home being their haven. KNX has some great solutions that play into this market. For example, an

air quality sensor could be installed into the bathroom occupancy sensor. That could then be integrated into the ventilation system, and that occupancy sensor can also turn on the domestic hot water pump so that you get hot water fast.

All this is set up without you having to have an extra PIR for that separate device because it’s all one clever system that’s talking to each other.

That’s the really nice thing about KNX. You might end up using four or five different manufacturers to have the building control talk to the home automation systems to feed back to the lighting control system to make something happen. Obviously, that’s what we do, but there are potentially more points of failure. With a KNX system, you minimise these risks and can have more of a streamlined approach.

KNX RF has recently been released to allow you to create and deploy hybrid systems, which are suited to areas where you can’t get cable or maybe you can only get local power. We sometimes use RF lighting control systems in a retrofit sense as we’ve always found it to be super reliable. We haven’t yet worked with KNX RF, but I’m sure it would work great.

If you are looking to get started with KNX, CEDIA has recently launched the hybrid KNX basic course, which explores all the aspects of the KNX protocol. The hybrid training includes six self-paced online modules, followed by a two-day on-site practical course.

CEDIA/KNX cedia.net/knx.

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ESSENTIAL SECURITY

MINIMISING THE CYBER SECURITY THREAT TO IP NETWORK CAMERAS When practically all the major phones and tablets already support Wi-Fi 6, why would you design for anything less?

Uri underlines that the industry must remain vigilant

Uri Guterman, Head of Product & Marketing and Elaine Moran, Technical Support & Field Engineer for Hanwha Techwin Europe have jointly produced a jargon busting explanation of video surveillance cyber security terminology and a reminder that combatting the activities of hackers needs to remain a top priority.

Concerns about the ability of hackers to access live images (or retrieve recorded images captured by video surveillance cameras located in security sensitive areas) have been around for a while. Many manufacturers of professional level cameras have responded to the threat by introducing device network set-up protocols which do not allow for a default password, or one that has consecutive letters or numbers, to be used. However, hackers are likely to continue to look at other ways to gain access to data, including via a camera’s ‘back door’.

Regardless of whether it is for criminal or malicious purposes, or just seen as a challenge by amateur hackers, it is essential that end-users’ confidential data is kept secure.

This applies just as much to the many thousands of small businesses and homes that entrust video surveillance solutions to protect their assets as it is for high security and mission critical end-users, such as airports, banks, local authorities, government, military and emergency services.

DESIGNED WITH CYBER SECURITY IN MIND

quickly respond with effective countermeasures, to any cyber security threats.

Manufacturers should also be using independent cyber security testing agencies to help them identify any vulnerabilities. However, as in all areas of life, prevention is better than the cure. This is why manufacturers such as Hanwha Techwin are equipping their latest generation of cameras with chipsets which have been developed from the ground up to minimise the risk of unauthorised access by hackers and the infiltration of malicious firmware.

Whilst no manufacturer can offer 100% guarantee that their products will never be hacked, the next generation chipsets on the horizon are likely to incorporate a long list of technologies which will significantly improve the cyber security credentials of the cameras they are built into.

JARGON EXPLAINED

Some of these technologies are new and have been developed specifically to combat cyberattacks whilst others, which were originally

Most responsible manufacturers of video surveillance cameras should recruite appropriately skilled software engineers to quickly produce firmware updates as new threats emerge. At Hanwha Techwin, our Security Computer Engineering Response Team (S-CERT) is totally focused on addressing any potential security vulnerabilities in our Wisenet products and solutions. Members of the team have been hand-picked for their expertise in being able to identify, analyse and

38 APRIL 2021

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ESSENTIAL SECURITY

intended simply to make chipsets more efficient, are also able to contribute to camera security. Almost all, when mentioned in video surveillance related documents, datasheets or on the internet, are stated as acronyms or have names which do not make it obvious what they are intended to do. Here therefore is an explanation of some of those you are most likely to come across.

ANTI-HARDWARE CLONE

Anti-hardware clone functionality prevents a chipset from being cloned. In addition to protecting intellectual property, this ensures that a chipset with a manufacturer’s label is a genuine copy and removes the risk of a cloned device which may contain malicious software being used to steal sensitive data such as passwords.

CRYPTO ACCELERATION

When applied to video surveillance solutions, crypto acceleration is normally referred to within the context of a camera chipset performing complex mathematical functions for encryption and decryption. This is a very intensive operation requiring the chipset to use a large proportion of its resources. Equipping chipsets with a dedicated ‘engine’ for this purpose ensures that encryption/decryption is efficiently carried out, without affecting other camera functionality.

IMAGE SCRAMBLING

Between the location of a camera and where the images it captures are remotely viewed, recorded and stored, there is always the possibility that a cyber criminal could hack into the network and gain access to what may be confidential video and data. Image scrambling is the encryption of video prior to transmission over the network. It does so by randomly rearranging the pixels of each image so that it cannot be viewed by anyone maliciously hacking into the network.

SECURE JTAG

JTAG ports are hardware interfaces which are used to programme, test and debug devices.

However, they can be compromised by cyber criminals to gain low level control of a device and perhaps replace firmware with a malicious version. This can be prevented by securing the JTAG port via a key-based authentication mechanism to which only authorised personnel working for the manufacturer have access.

Humans need protection from un-autherised access to their digital realm

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SECURE UART

UART ports are serial interfaces typically used for debugging cameras. They allow administrator access to a camera and are therefore a target for hackers attempting to access sensitive information such as password keys. Hackers could also potentially access a camera’s firmware in order to reverse engineer it, as well as examine it for vulnerabilities in the device’s communications protocols. Enforcing restricted and secure access to the UART port, will allow the debugging process to be safely completed, without opening the door to cyber criminals.

OTP ROM

This is an acronym for One Time Programmable Read Only Memory which allows sensitive data, such as encryption keys, to be written only once onto a chipset and then prevents the data from being modified. This protects the integrity of encryption keys which are used to validate the stages in a secure boot up sequence and allows access to the JTAG Port.

SECURE BOOT VERIFICATION

Secure Boot provides an extra layer of security by sandboxing different elements of a camera’s operating system, which means they are in a protected space. The system will complete a full boot before communicating with any other part of the system and this prevents an interruption to the boot process which could be exploited by a hacker.

RANDOM NUMBER GENERATOR

Computers are designed to create very predictable data and are therefore not very good at generating random numbers which are required for good encryption. A dedicated random number generator overcomes this problem by having a dedicated mechanism for the task.

SECURE OS

Using a separate operating system (OS) for encryption and decryption, as well as for verifying apps have not been modified or are forgeries, reduces the workload of a camera’s main OS. A separate Linux based API is needed to access a Secure OS and without this there is no way to make any changes from the outside of a camera. A Secure OS should always therefore be used to process important stored information.

In a highly competitive market, there is no shortage of camera manufacturers to choose from. Consultants, system designers and systems integrators therefore have the freedom to narrow down their shortlist of preferred supplies to those who have fully embraced and incorporated best practise into their manufacturing process. A clear demonstration of this would be if they have equipped their cameras with most, if not all, of the above functionality and technology.

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APRIL 2021 39

ESSENTIAL KEF: SONSORED CONTENT

KEF EXTREME HOME THEATRE: FOR THE ULTIMATE THX -CERTIFIED SYSTEM ®

KEF’s Extreme Home Theatre systems set new standards for architectural loudspeakers. Working closely with the THX Testing Lab in Northern California, KEF Extreme Home Theatre models have been designed and built to THX Certified Ultra and THX Certified Select standards.

The formidable KEF Ci Reference and Ci R Series speakers can deliver all the drama and emotional intensity of true theatre sound quality. Meanwhile the exceptional Q Series delivers the perfect balance of high-resolution sound with depth and clarity.

For the ultimate custom installed home cinema, it is now possible to configure a complete system certified to THX Ultra2/Select2 standards; the range consists of three powerful in-ceiling speakers that can be combined with one of five in-wall models and a choice of two powered subwoofers.

This comprehensive line of THX-certified speakers will ensure that your home theatre contains a potent speaker arrangement. Whether installed discreetly in the ceiling, mounted behind a projection screen, or flanking a flat panel TV, KEF’s innovative Architectural Series offerings provide options to create an incredible custom Extreme Theatre System which is as aweinspiring to hear, as it is visually discreet.

Utilising the innovative and multi-award winning Uni-Q driver array, the KEF Ci Extreme Theatre models deliver an off-axis response so wide that everyone is sitting in the best-sounding seat in the house. Situated in its own enclosure, optimised for the best possible acoustic performance, the Uni-Q produces wide sound dispersion characteristics with a fast and accurate midrange response. Delivering highly intelligible vocals and all of the dynamic range and impact you’ll want to hear from a blockbuster film

KEF Ci5160RL-THX & Ci3160RLb-THX, AWE Europe

experience, these powerful speakers are ideal for install applications where space is at a premium, but performance is not.

With unique design innovations along with cosmetic advances like our Ultra-Thin Bezel (UTB), KEF has led the way for custom installed music solutions with the use of advanced technology to give best-in-class acoustic performance, appearance, and ease of installation.

Combined with innovative engineering tailored to the practical requirements of the installer, our suite of Architectural speakers and installed subwoofers sets yet another new benchmark: custom installed speaker systems with the acoustic performance of audiophile quality freestanding hifi speakers.

IN-CEILING HOME THEATRE: CI160RR-THX, CI200RR-THX AND CI200RS-THX

These neat in-ceiling THX certified models have been perfected after years of refinement of KEF’s cutting-edge technology. Adding further versatility to the Ci R Series range, these speaker models feature KEF’s signature Uni-Q driver technology, vented aluminium tweeter and Tangerine Waveguide with Z-Flex surround to significantly elevate the performance to home theatre standards where everyone in the room enjoys the same precisely defined sound imagery. And with KEF’s unique Ultra-Thin Bezel (UTB) design offering the slimmest possible rim around the speaker for minimal visual intrusion, all you notice is the clear, natural sound.

IN-WALL HOME THEATRE: CI4100QL, CI3160RL-THX, CI3160REF-THX, CI5160RLTHX, CI5160REF-THX

The tall, rectangular range is designed and specifically engineered for serious music and home theatre system front left, centre, right and side applications. Each in-wall model is intended for a custom home theatre that blends seamlessly into a room without sacrificing on audio quality.

The KEF Ci3160REF-THX and Ci5160REFTHX models are created to the same exacting

40 APRIL 2021

standards as the rest of the speakers in KEF’s REFERENCE family and are even authenticated with a REFERENCE Build Certificate signed by the craftsman who built it. Certified to THX ULTRA2 standards, they deliver the same rich response of floorstanding systems, but with a thin frame that sits flush in the wall.

IN-WALL SUBWOOFERS: CI200QSB-THX AND CI3160RLB-THX

As complete systems, the range includes two exceptional in-wall subwoofers; the Ci200QSbTHX with a high-output 200mm sub-bass driver and the Ci3160RLb-THX with three aluminium 165mm bass drivers mounted in a sturdy aluminium baffle. Not only do these two subwoofers provide a visual match to KEF’s Extreme Home Theatre speakers but they perfectly enhance the speakers’ sonic capabilities into a true high performance discreet Theatre system. Refined yet gutsy, these powerful subs can be paired with the KASA500, KEF’s sophisticated 2 x 250WPC DSP controlled subwoofer amplifier for limitless control and integration flexibility.

SECOND TO NONE IN CUSTOM INSTALLATION

With these premium additions KEF’s pioneering Architectural speaker range now offers a highend home theatre speaker system for every application. All models are timbre-matched for a perfectly consistent sound so whatever combination is specified, you enjoy accurate, spacious, and richly detailed 3D sound throughout the listening area.

Fast, easy installation has always been a strength of the Architectural Series. KEF’s ingenious design features allow ci speakers to be fitted quickly in a few simple steps. Discreet in appearance, simple to install and engineered to last, these systems allow everyone in the room to enjoy the same flawlessly natural, totally involving sound as an audiophile quality Hi-Fi system.

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E X T R E M E T H E AT R E - C i S E R I E S For the ultimate in Extreme Home Theatre, KEF’s formidable new custom installed THX models have the jaw-dropping acoustic capabilities of our class-leading floorstanders, with all the drama and emotional intensity of full theatre sound quality.

The addition of the top-of-the-line KEF Ci5160REF-THX in-wall model raises the standards of architectural speakers to a whole new level. Featuring signature innovations drawn from KEF REFERENCE technology, this model offers new levels of sound quality – REFERENCE performance out of the box and in the wall.

KEF THX Extreme Home Theatre - a new standard of audio excellence for any space, however demanding.

Hide your speakers, not your sound.

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Ci200QSb-THX

Ci4100QL-THX

Ci3160RL-THX

GP Acoustics (UK) Limited, Eccleston Road, Tovil, Maidstone, Kent, ME15 6QP, UK Tel: +44 (0)1622 672261 THX and the THX logo are trademarks of THX Ltd. that are registered in the U.S. and other jurisdictions. All rights reserved.

Dolby, Dolby Atmos, Dolby Surround, and the double-D symbol are trademarks of Dolby Laboratories.

Ci3160RLb-THX

Ci3160REF-THX

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ESSENTIAL CLUBS, BARS, RESTAURANTS

HOSPITALITY HOPES Dylan Thompson, Technical Project Manager at Penguin Media Solutions, specialists in commercially focused AV systems, assesses the recent past, present and potential future for the sector.

It’s been a difficult year for the commercial side of AV, if you deal with entertainment and leisure. At the time of writing, it’s pretty much a year to the day that we noticed bookings in the diary and enquiries drop off like a stone. It was expected that we would be back on our feet relatively quickly – ‘12 weeks and we’ll be ok again’ – but that wasn’t to be the case.

Some companies mothballed, shrunk their overheads and hibernated, others diversified; live streaming became the latest thing for everyone to offer and those companies with corporate AV experience wisely moved into the VC and UC market – with businesses all over the world moving quickly to working from home, there was a need for collaboration solutions to keep things moving.

There was a brief time where ‘socially distanced events’ were trialled, nightclubs and bars opened at reduced capacity, sanctions were imposed on audio levels. The customer experience and atmosphere were severely diminished – but some people were happy to take anything they could get!

Fast forward to present day, and lots has changed. A large proportion of the UK population have been vaccinated, and our roadmap to ‘normal’ has been announced. From our point of view, the government announcing some dates and some loose guidelines as to what may be, has changed business dramatically – confidence in spending has resumed, plans are being drawn up and works are starting again, which is great news! However, the impact Covid-19 has had on our industry and the way we do things, will be felt for many years to come.

44 APRIL 2021

CONTINUED IMPACT There are a number of products that have emerged recently that integrators can offer new or existing clients, which may assist, either now or in the future. Being prepared for another set of restrictions, to enable businesses to continue trading, is going to be key. Thermal imaging cameras such as the range offered by Hikvision are one such product – on their own their effectiveness could be questioned, but as part of your Covid-19 risk management plan, become another tool in the box. Outdoor areas are now more than just a smoking area, and can be the difference between the venue opening, or not! Martin Audio has recently updated their CDD-WR range (weather resistant) to include marine rated variants ideal for those seafront venues, as well as 100v line options for larger distributed systems. Venues that enhance the experience for their outdoor patrons will reap the benefits.

When venues could open, albeit with a reduced SPL level - the focus was not on volume, but quality and intelligibility. Venue owners began to spot the weaknesses in their system design. Acoustic room treatment, the choice of materials in the room, the coverage of the room to give every audience member the same experience, dispersion patterns of speakers, the quality of the products in the signal chain, as well as the speakers themselves – all of this becomes very apparent when you are limited to 85dBA and every decibel counts.

Some pro-audio brands are pushing their experience to the home market – for fans who can afford it and for those with sympathetic neighbours, the likes of L’Acoustics, Funktion One and Void have variants of their commercial speakers which lend themselves to home party use. Confidence in ‘going out-out’ may not be where it needs to be for some people just yet, but their need for music, entertainment and socialising on their terms remains.

Lock-down has begun a reassessment of the use of space and equipment across the hospitality and entertainment sectors

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HOSPITALITY AND RESIMMERCIAL

PUTTING THE RESI IN RESIMMERCIAL Mark Taylor, commercial director at Invision, smart home distributor, talks about ‘resimmercial’ and how custom installers can help the hospitality industry to prepare for reopening.

Restaurants, bars and clubs have all been hit hard during the coronavirus pandemic. Imposed restrictions (including forced closures), as well as limits to capacity and opening times, has meant that the sector has seen significant impacts on business turnover with some even having to cease trading.

It’s reported that the hospitality industry saw the biggest economic decline of all sectors between March and July 2020. Even when dining was able to resume in July, output was still down by 60% compared to February of the same year1.

These enforced lockdowns have caused a shift in consumer behaviour and while we see a plan in place for the easing of restrictions, how does the hospitality industry prepare?

The Deloitte Hospitality Team have advised that the sector needs to, ‘harness new technologies to deliver better value to – and connect with – their guests2’ and we agree.

Strengthening their digital- capabilities with things like bespoke AV systems that provide great entertainment and non-touch solutions, will help

boost consumer confidence when they return.

We believe the technology that allows for monitoring of capacity as well as ordering and paying at the table (using QR codes or apps) will continue to be used.

It may be that each venue will prioritise keeping customers in for longer at a reduced capacity. As a result, they will need to heighten the customer experience while making them feel safe. Technology can help to do that.

This is where ‘resimmercial’ comes in. First coined in the US, the area between residential and commercial has often been referred to in the UK as light commercial and has been developing for a while.

Here at Invision, we have many customers that have been working in this developing area for some time. Following our observations of the market, we expect this area will continue to grow in demand, and feel custom installers are better placed and equipped to serve it.

Following years of designing and installing bespoke and fully integrated AV solutions that include high-performance entertainment, the

expertise garnered by custom installers enables them to fulfil the needs of the hospitality sector with ease. Furthermore, the requirement from the sector to prepare to reopen effectively post - pandemic means that there’s an ideal opportunity for custom installers now.

Contrary to popular opinion, no two residential projects are the same. To truly understand what a customer wants and deliver it within the realms of what is available and what is possible, is no mean feat. Open communication is key, and this puts experienced residential integrators in the accustomed position to have similar discussions within hospitality and leisure.

Integration will be a big part of this discussion. Allowing ease of use and full control technology can be used to monitor, entertain and provide security all via one system.

These integration capabilities allow for the connection of what seems like an endless list of devices meaning the sector has choice over what products they want to use to provide optimum results.

The speed of change is a trait synonymous with the residential market and technology is always developing. Homeowners want the best of the best and CIs understand that – they are always on the lookout for new systems or products to deliver a safe and desirable home environment. This can be easily replicated within hospitality and leisure as integrators’ accumulated understanding of the needs of consumers is only a win-win for the sector.

As part of the Midwich Group, Invision has access to a wide portfolio of commercial products that would support this diversification, as well as extensive experience in understanding integration and smart home technology. With opportunities available now, we expect to see the ‘resimmercial’ market grow in demand and it should certainly not be underestimated.

1. Source: Hospitality industry and Covid-19 Report, 8 January 2021, Georgina Hutton and Niamh Foley 2. https://www2.deloitte.com/uk/en/pages/consumerbusiness/solutions/hospitality.html

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APRIL 2021 47

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ESSENTIAL HOME AUTOMATION

ALL CHANGE? Joe Roberts, CEO, RTI, offers his insight into the world of automation in the home and light-commercial sectors.

The control and automation industry is always dynamic. And one of the big changes over the years has been in system programming.

There was a time (not that long ago) when integrating components required a highly skilled programmer to write line-level code. Companies like RTI, with our Integration Designer APEX platform, have dramatically simplified this time-consuming task. With auto programming and drag-and-drop interface editing, adding buttons and functionality that used to take hours to program, now can be completed in a matter of minutes, and can be personalised by any integrator with a basic understanding of interface design. For the average project, programming can be handled quickly with exceptional results.

This is important in the COVID era, where retrofit opportunities for integrators in the residential space abound. Whether it’s adding a home office, an outdoor living space, or a wholehome audio system, homeowners are investing in making time spent at home more enjoyable.

The blending of inside and outside space in residential and commercial settings is a clear trend

50 APRIL 2021

However, due to health concerns, they don’t want technicians in their homes any longer than necessary, so the ability to quickly and easily program a system is key.

But simple-to-deploy options doesn’t mean the role of the high-level programmer is dead.

At RTI, we have been careful not to let ease-ofuse take away any of our platform’s power or personalisation capabilities — integrators can incorporate virtually any device into a residential or commercial system and completely customize any control interface. The RTI platform allows integrators to write highly specific code for complex customized installations, particularly important for integrators in the ‘resimercial’ space.

RESIMERCIAL

As the world begins to open back up, integrators can expect to see numerous opportunities in the commercial sector as businesses take measures to adjust to our ‘new normal.’ For many of them, these measures will reimagine and reconfigure existing spaces. We’re already seeing this in bars and restaurants with the creation of outdoor dining areas that take advantage of whatever space is available — whether it’s a sidewalk or a parking lot. In an effort to recreate the indoor ambiance in a safe environment, these outdoor spaces typically add lighting and audio systems, with heaters to keep guests comfortable in cooler weather.

The move outside is a boon

for integrators — not only in terms of installing AV and lighting technologies, but in integrating them into existing control and automation systems. This integration makes it simple for staff to control the outdoor environment, while allowing its technologies to be included in ‘opening’ and ‘closing’ routines.

In most retail and office environments, setting up shop outside isn’t an option, so we can expect to see indoor spaces reconfigured to minimize crowding. For example, big-box stores have traditionally placed their displays together in one area, where customers can gather to view and compare them. To reduce gatherings, these displays will likely need to be spread out, which can also create new digital signage opportunities.

The same principle applies in the office. Instead of filling a conference room with employees, a small number of ‘presenters’ can physically attend the meeting while the remainder watch on displays located throughout the office. In both instances, the key to spreading out displays will be using flexible, cost-effective video distribution technologies to deliver content from a wide range of sources — from video conferencing solutions to set-top boxes. Integrators are perfectly positioned to meet this need, and RTI is supporting them with new video matrix and video over IP (VIP) systems. These integrate video distribution seamlessly into control and automation systems, making it effortless for staff to send any content source to any display or group of displays. And as in residential projects, the ability to quickly program these systems and move on to the next job will be essential.

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ESSENTIAL AUTOMATION PLATFORMS

THE FUTURE IS NOW! Andy Attwell, Sales Director, RGB Communications, talks building automation.

I’m often asked what the future of home automation offers. The question actually amuses me, as when I think back 20 years and how far we have come in a relatively short space of time, it is astonishing how a user can now have the house work for them, rather than they run the house. I also feel that we haven’t scratched the surface yet regarding market penetration.

Yes, the likes of Apple, Google and Amazon have all released products that are ‘Smart’, but these products are really just interfaces, with multiple third-party products and control systems required to get the most out of them.

To look at the future, I think we have to look back first and assess where we currently are.

Prior to home automation, there were plenty of smart-ish products that offered solutions for single problems. Multi-room audio, ambient lighting systems, HVAC etc. were all available but required their own control systems that worked independently from anything else. There were a handful of ‘control’ systems available but these tended to be expensive, clunky and very exclusive, also requiring the programming skills of an expert! Okay, so we all have to start somewhere and just by the very nature of what was involved, the price made these systems available only to the very wealthy.

In more recent times (and really since the advent of IP control), the cost of entrylevel systems that now incorporate all of the above features and more, have become far more popular. However, we are probably still only talking 1-2% (and perhaps I am being generous?) of UK homes wired for home automation. Wi-Fi was seen as the big hope but, as anyone who has installed a true home

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automation system will tell you, cables are still the most reliable solution. Considering that the cost of running cables to every possible point in a home is negligible in the context of a new build, it would be a brave installer that goes totally wire-free.

Depending on the budget, what can now be achieved from dedicated home automation brands such as Crestron, Control 4, RTi and, of course, Savant is extraordinary. From simple room lighting through to Circadian environments, wireless speaker control through to multi-room AV, digital thermostats through to zonal heating, a Ring doorbell through to whole-home security etc., everything can now be assembled and controlled by a single, intuitive user interface or App. Crucially, the set-up of these systems has also become significantly more user-friendly for installers. Using Savant as a good example, the main system set up is drag and drop, requiring very little ‘specialist’ programming to get a system up and running. Of course, I would always recommend an installer obtains the required skills prior to starting out with a new system.

However, the days of having to employ a software engineer to create a command to turn the lights on are disappearing.

As the technology required is reducing in cost and the skills of installers has grown significantly, enticing new customers has never been easier. Many of the projects that I have visited have seen the CI team not only liaising with builders and architects but, in many cases, practically running the job! I firmly believe that the skill base and professionalism of many of the installers I have met is that much more proficient than other trades, which is great to see. What we

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really need to be doing is broadcasting this out to a wider audience as I feel that once people know what can be achieved within their homes and that it is actually more affordable than they think, we will have many more converts. And, as more consumer goods are branded ‘smart’, the appetite for a single eco-system whereby everything is controlled also increases.

So what of the future? I would say that technology is continuing to be developed, with VR starting to make its way into the space.

However, I would suggest that perhaps the development of the industry is to reach out to new customers and offer solutions that will make the category more acceptable and affordable.

By utilising the off-the-shelf user interfaces as an introduction to smart homes combined with education to consumers, I think that we can widen the appeal of the industry and expand our customer bases. Is there a vehicle for this education to consumers? Not really, other than the more we install, the greater increase in awareness. Perhaps this means that, as an industry, we need to be more open to offering ‘standard’ solutions at more affordable costs?

Yes, I know that every project is different, but my guess is that many of them form a similar process.

I believe that there are many potential customers who are unaware of what can be achieved and those that are informed, are frightened of the costs. Yes, some elements can be expensive (or reassuringly expensive, depending on the point of view). But there are many areas, such as lighting, audio and security that just need the control system to bring them together in a user-friendly and more affordable way.

APRIL 2021 53

ESSENTIAL AUTOMATION PLATFORMS

REDISCOVERING JOB SATISFACTION Automation platforms are a game changer for residential integrators. In the past, 80% of programming consisted of tedious, repetitive tasks. But thanks to recent developments, programmers can focus on more (challenging, personalised projects), says John Clancy, Executive Vice President, Residential at Crestron.

We’ve seen an interesting shift in home automation these past few years. For the first time ever, the need for back-end programming is being replaced by a configuration app you use from a tablet. While the front end can be personalised and customised, the current home automation systems create room and system tiles, based on the items and rooms defined in the setup app. And thanks to the support of standard control protocols and partnerships with leading manufacturers, the top-of-the-line systems seamlessly integrate third party devices. This configuration solution is ideal for clients looking for a clean and lean user interface, intuitive to use for even the least experienced customers.

One other area that has opened things up for experienced programmers is the creation of drivers that are built to support a third-party device or system in categories far beyond what is supported natively. There are already a vast array of these available now. Want to control your Neff coffee maker or Delos Darwin health and wellness system in your home? No problem.

There are drivers available for these and so many more that can be easily added to a home automation system. This is creating a community writing, selling and even giving away these very cool customisations and this just goes to show that the world will always need programmers.

In the beginning, installers and programmers were concerned about these changes, as they feared they would become obsolete. But today, the feedback we receive is completely different. When we talk with residential installers, we hear that they love how responsive and dynamic HTML5 is. They no longer need to create separate and distinct user interfaces for every type and size of screen that is part of the control system. No more need to draw tedious amounts of buttons, sliders and icons. Instead, they create one design for all screens. When they push it out, HTML5 automatically adapts to best fit the screen. The homeowner will have exactly the same functionality, visual set up and control options when he is looking at his touch panel set up on the wall, his remote control, or his smartphone.

54 APRIL 2021

Added benefit that our integrators mention: since front-end and back-end programming can easily be separated, they can work on more projects at the same time. While a front-end developer builds the GUI for the projects, the back-end programmer can develop tailor made solutions for his clients using Simpl+, Simpl#, SimplWindows or any other basic programming

sets. And since it takes a lot less time to design, fewer issues arise and the solution is more reliable, dealer costs go down, giving them the time and resources to take on more projects and jobs. As manufacturers, it is our job to make sure the programmers’ time is used wisely and efficiently, focusing on the things that add great value and not wasted on the mundane.

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SWITCH TO SAVANT AUDIO & SAVE! When designing a home automation system, how many times have you had to reach for a third-party audio system to achieve the control and interface that your customer desires but at an affordable price?

With Savant, you have had the ability to integrate third-party audio systems into your control systems for years. However, wouldn’t it be better to stay within the Savant eco-system for all of your audio requirements? The great news is that now you can! And to make the switch over that much more interesting to you, we are offering not only very competitive pricing but also the opportunity to enjoy real margin when selling audio products.

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ESSENTIAL AUTOMATION PLATFORMS

TAKING CONTROL Mal Fisher, Chief Technology Officer at AWE, discusses all things control and the factors shaping the evolution of the UK market.

For every revolution in ‘smart home control’, there are far more interesting and valuable incremental improvements. But, for all the improvement in features and benefits from control and automation companies, we’re seeing a drift as more integrators adopt a latherrinse-repeat approach to their programming.

That can absolutely work from a business perspective, as long as the client is getting the result they want. We often talk about the primacy of the customer experience in our industry. This focus is what sets technology integrators apart and gives them a professional edge over the limitations of DIY-ers and hobbyists. It’s also not an approach that works if there’s a desire to seize more of the ‘resi-mercial’ (love the sector, hate the word) market. More of that later, but if anyone has an alternative term for it, please get in touch!

Those integrators who embrace customisation will take the market in the opposite, higher value direction. The best control platforms out there provide the chance for graphical customisation and exceptional personalisation, that will properly address the needs and

expectations of the user, whether that’s through adding new backgrounds, icons, or room images to the user interface, through the creation of custom device drivers and advanced system programming. Each user deserves an interface built so that they can recognise it as their own, even if it’s just an app-based system.

Such open-minded flexibility is also bringing those resi-mercial projects (anyone?), in offices and hospitality applications, within reach for this type of control system. The level of graphical customisation that is available enables the client to build a strong brand identity and presence amongst their employees and their customers.

Elevating and communicating the brand in this way is recognised as a valuable asset by a growing number of organisations.

At the same time, project size is no longer a barrier to easy, intuitive control deployments.

Instead, integrators can focus on delivering the project elements that are meaningful to the user, whether that’s different audio zoned into primary and secondary areas, scene setting lighting and more efficiently controlled heating and security.

For example, high-definition audio (HDA) multi-zone systems which offers studio-quality fidelity, easy installation and best-in-class dealer profit are fully scalable to fit most residential or commercial environments. They’re distributing audio across an AVB network, and are loaded with powerful features like ducking and paging, full DSP and easy integration with URC’s Total Control system.

Customisation to elevate the customer experience is the way forward. It’s the DNA of our industry and too valuable to be put at risk by an increasing reliance on standardised control solutions. At their best, control platforms provide faster, more intuitive and easier to use system set-up and configuration, alongside improved scalability and flexibility, and new business opportunities in resi-mercial applications.

Personalisation and good audio continue to be key growth areas

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APRIL 2021 57

ESSENTIAL AUTOMATION PLATFORMS

OPEN SEASON KNX UK President, Paul Foulkes, casts his vote for the ideal automation platform.

Is the cash cow that was lighting and AV automation on its last legs? Does a business model built on discount points still work in today’s multi-faceted smart control market?

People want much more in their homes and workplace: in addition to the relatively easy lighting and AV wins, they want to integrate heating and cooling, shading and energy control and security. And why not given the existence of a proven, robust open-system automation platform that makes bringing it all together easy? That’s KNX. During the weird year of lockdown and tiers, KNX has gone from strength to strength.

It celebrated its 30th birthday as the de facto global open control protocol and signing up Sony took its count of manufacturer members past the 500 mark. Yes, that’s 500 manufacturers making controls that are guaranteed to work together, guaranteed to be backwards compatible, and guaranteed to enable you to broaden your horizons by designing interworking between applications controlling every aspect of home control. The real value add in automation comes from the quality of a systems integrator’s thinking, and the combination of skill and talent that creates scalable, flexible solutions that meet customer expectations and, above all, are just reliable.

58 APRIL 2021

Don’t limit yourself by starting with a proprietary control system that only controls AV and had to link to another system for the rest of the building, start with a platform that offers the control of the majority of the building then add the AV control on top.

The big risk with proprietary solutions is that they might require you to update an installation’s central controller when a new range of keypads is released? You know who we mean; and you know that the big discounts don’t make up for the client’s ire when they learn at the cost of the upgrade! Meanwhile a KNX integrator will have been able to programme a new, KNX-certified keypad design into the existing system, make a quick physical swap onsite and then sit back and continue to enjoy an amicable and profitable long-term relationship with the customer.

There are KNX devices and solutions for every application, it may be lighting control with Theben DALI Gateways, BMS integration with the ABB application control or visualisation & remote access with the Gira X1/S1 combo.

But that’s not to say you have to ditch your favourite systems or familiar products because, for the most part the proprietary players have already made the KNX choice for you. They have created the gateways that let the magic

happen. Control4 and Savant both offer a native IP connection to KNX simplifying the integration of KNX lighting and comfort, with audio and video entertainment for homes around the world. Crestron has an IP to KNX gateway, a bi-directional Ethernet interface capable of addressing up to 250 KNX objects, while Lutron can be interfaced using third party software.

Even consumer solutions are coming to the KNX party with Sonos, Apple Homekit, Siri, Alexa and Google home all able to either control or be integrated with a KNX system.

For advanced users, SDKs and Object servers enable custom integrations to other platforms. With KNX as the underlying automaton platform the limits are endless so there is no need to be restricted by the limits of a proprietary platforms.

KNX integrators in the UK have been delivering high end residential projects in the UK market for many years. That’s possible because of the range of user interfaces not in spite of them, like other solutions. The KNX ETS programming software hasn’t actually changed fundamentally, but the skin it lives in has evolved making using it ever-easer.

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THE DIRECTOR DSP Matrix Amplifiers 4 MODELS 8 OR 16 CHANNELS 100 WATTS AT 8 OHMS (ALL CHANNELS DRIVEN) 200 WATTS AT 4 OHMS (ALL CHANNELS DRIVEN) Integrates with:

q

r e

w Laptop not in-

BUILT-IN SPEAKER OPTIMIZATION PROFILES | BUILT-IN MATRIX DELIVERING ANALOG/DIGITAL INPUTS TO ANY ZONE OUTPUT | PROGRAMMABLE GRAPHIC & PARAMETRIC EQUALIZATION WITH USER MEMORIES | PROGRAMMABLE ELECTRONIC CROSSOVER FOR LOCAL SUBWOOFER APPLICATIONS; SUBSONIC FILTER | DUAL DIGITAL AUDIO BUS INPUTS T: 01359 270280 E: sales@invisionuk.com www.invisionuk.com

ESSENTIAL AUTOMATION PLATFORMS

This underlying stability is the real strength: you are investing time and energy in a platform that you will be able to use to consistently deliver projects with lifecycles extending into decades. KNX UK Association members are now maintaining and expanding systems they installed 15 years ago, adding more sophisticated security devices, for instance, or building in the whole new approach to entertainment that has evolved since the CDs that were prevalent when their system was first designed.

When it comes to smart homes, not all updates need to be done at once. Projects can be phased, or evolved as lifestyles change: children may leave home or older lifestyles begin to call for automated help with assisted living. All of this can be catered for with the cross-application flexibility of KNX without having to go back to the drawing board. As KNX is a system with distributed intelligence, there’s no high-risk central point of failure and new devices can simply be attached to the nearest node, a switch or sensor perhaps. Changing a KNX system is not disruptive – the customer will hardly know you’ve been there.

The international KNX Association has already indicated that 2021 will be a decisive year for proving that the KNX IoT 3rd Party API holds many advantages for parties outside the KNX community to connect to KNX data, thus cementing the KNX position the de facto automaton platform for solutions that build on data collected via this manufacturer-independent interface. In the commercial smart building arena, KNX is also playing a key role in promoting a secure multistandard IP-based infrastructure to replace the inefficient, still-widespread use of siloed solutions. The KNX Association, working with BACnet International, OCF, Thread Group and the Zigbee Alliance have announced a new initiative: “IP Building and Lighting Standards” (IP-BLiS).

Big or small, commercial or residential, simple or complex, there will always be a KNX solution that makes sense. Don’t let the proprietary systems fool you: why be good at one or two things for the length of the project when you can be good at many things for the whole life of the installation?

Commercial or residential, KNX argues it has the solution

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APRIL 2021 61

ESSENTIAL CASE STUDY: SOUND SENSE

SMILES ALL ROUND WITH HIGH PERFORMANCE HOME CINEMA Sound Sense delivers top performing cinema as a retreat from a busy dental practice; from molars to movies!

In densely populated areas of India, it is common to see multi-use buildings that house both businesses and residences. Sound Sense - an award-winning integration firm in Surat, has one of India’s most elite showrooms and is familiar with working in this type of structure.

Sound Sense’s state-of-the-art showroom displays living and office space possibilities to meet virtually any audio, video and control need, which is then customised for each client to meet their unique requirements and budget.

A local dental surgeon reached out to Sound Sense after recently completing construction of a four-story home/business (with his dental clinic located on the ground floor and residence situated on the upper three floors). He had a twofold vision for the uppermost floor – to provide a

62 APRIL 2021

place to retreat from the long hours of the work week and to provide a place to get together with family and friends on evenings, weekends and special occasions. The client envisioned a high-end home cinema, yet they only had a room sized just under 25’ x 19’ to work within.

“Our client wanted a larger-than-life movie experience whose vibrancy was to remain isolated from the dental clinic below,” says Ankur Bhatt, founder and director of Sound Sense. “The client requested a ‘monster-sized’ screen and a high-end audio video calibrated system that well exceeded the limited budget that remained after the other construction expenses. We were able to carefully select components that allowed us to fulfill his vision while staying within the allocated budget.”

Ankur adds, “The main challenge was to meet the large seating requirement in such a limited space. After assessing the room size, screen size, speaker placement, seating needs and acoustics, we designed five rows of seating for 33 people using six or seven seats per row in non-reclining chairs. The six-seat rows were designed to accommodate the pillars on each side of the room.

“We used a discrete speaker setup with the surrounds placed in the centre of rows one, two, three and four to achieve the correct phase alignment for these rows. Diffuser panels were used in the back half of the room to add spaciousness to the sound and reduce the localisation of the surround and rear speakers.

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Capital Collection

Our new Capital Collection of wall mounted, rectangular Mirror TV’s use NEOD Mirror TV technology and are framed with exclusive luxury, hand crafted frames by the superb master craftsmen at Joseph McCarthy Mirrors in Kent.

Influenced by our many projects in London locations, they are perfect for use in any residential or hotel applications - in living rooms, bedrooms, drawing rooms, offices or suites and look particularly good over beautiful fireplaces, a natural home for a Mirror TV. In order to create the illusion, a Mirror TV must look seamless in any given room design.

We use the very finest frames and our product is engineered to perfection with no visible brackets, fixings or unsightly cables so that even the side profile is very elegant.

Integrated with the latest Samsung 4K TV technology offering superb performance, functionality and connectivity.

Simply choose from three TV size’s 43”, 49” or 55” and your choice from 12 exclusive frame designs that best suit your customers interior style.

Contact us today to become an authorised dealer.

Splashback TV and Mirror TV Walls T: 01273 735 476 info@reflectv.co.uk www.reflectv.co.uk

NEOD also design, build and install Splashback TV’s or Mirror TV walls. Simply tell us the size of the glass area and TV size required and we will custom make a mirror that will perfectly fit your space.

SAR-WM Wall Mount for Sonos Arc Allows you to install Sonos Arc quickly and easily onto any suitable wall. A unique 30mm step positions the Arc’s top-firing speakers in front of the TV. Designed and manufactured in the UK with precision engineered high grade-steel.

SAR-TVMA TV Mount Attachment for Sonos Arc Holds the Arc securely in place while allowing it to move with the screen.

Flexson’s unique design positions the Sonos Arc 30mm in front of the TV, allowing you to harness the power of Dolby Atmos.

Includes two sets of arms for the perfect installation.

Available from Exertis: 01256 378 550 or Alltrade: 0844 225 2700

SPEAKER CABLE TO CPR CLASS CCA www.fscables.com sales@fscables.com 01727 840841

ESSENTIAL CASE STUDY: SOUND SENSE For subwoofer placement, we performed a room analysis and the seats were place in the optimised zone with moderated peaking and no nulling. We needed the boundary gain from the wall for the subwoofers and so we placed the two subs in the corners of the room, creating a virtual sub in the centre. This gave us the real estate we needed to place more seats.”

Ankur continues, “To address the noise isolation issues, we designed the acoustic treatments to rectify the reverberation time and solve problems related to the flutter echoes. An intricate isolation system was installed in the floor and an acoustic sheet was added behind the Milan acoustic transparent screen. We also installed a dedicated split air conditioning unit with internal thermostat controls in the equipment room to overcome the typical Indian heat whether the cinema room was in use or not.”

Ankur says, “We selected Phase Technology

Also included were a Pioneer SC-LX

loudspeakers and subwoofers for this project

701 (AV Amplifier) offering dynamic sound

as they brought us the superlative sound and

quality and an advanced equaliser per channel

resonance we needed for this cinema. With

allowing the system to be tuned according to

our experience installing Phase Tech speakers

the room requirements with ease and clarity.

over the past few years, we can vouch for their

Also in the mix, a Lab Gruppen IPD1200

consistency and reliability in terms of quality

power amp with an on-board DSP to assist in

output and technical performance over time.”

tuning each and every speaker.

THE SPEAKER ARRAY Phase Technology’s CI Custom Install 3-way inwall speakers were selected for cinema audio (9.2.4 Dolby Atmos arrangement) for their highquality sound and noise isolating properties.

The tweeter and midrange assembly absorb the horizontal sound waves through Unicell Acoustic treatment to minimise interaction with the mounting wall resulting in precise imaging and clarity. The patented CI 130 uses a hybrid in-wall enclosure design that lowers the transmission of sound into an adjacent room while keeping the bass output at levels close to an infinite baffle design. With this design, a speaker with the same size rear enclosure will have bass output that extends up to one octave lower than a comparable speaker.

The team has limited space to accommodate the number of seats needed

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APRIL 2021 65

ESSENTIAL CASE STUDY: SOUND SENSE

Essential Kit List Elan GSC 2 Rako lighting RMT500 (RF Dimmer) RMS800 (RF RS Switching: Non-Dimmable) RCM100 (Keypad) RA BRIDGE (Ethernet Access For App Control) Sony VPL-VW-45ES projector Milan acoustic transparent 2.35:1 screen, 13in wide/169in diagonally PhaseTech Speakers CI 130 X (LCR Speakers) x 3 CI 70 X (Surround Speakers) x 4 CI 70 X (Rear Surround Speakers) x 2 CI 7.3 X (Atmos Speakers) x 4 Power FL -12 (Subwoofers) x 2 Pioneer SC-LX 701 Audio-Video Amplifier Lab Gruppen IPD1200 Power Amplifier x 7 BDP 180 BluRay Player Tata Sky 4K set top Box Valrack 42U Legrand AV Furniture AV Pro Connect Cat 6 Over HDMI converter Linksys E900 Access Point

The client was hugely impressed with the result

Ankur concludes, “For this set-up, we also selected the following products for their unique offerings. A Marrantz pre-power amplifier was selected to deliver richer, sound with minimal distortion and we also selected Crestron for the automation solution as it provided the required flexibility for the customisation of the client’s GUI. The JVC UH1 projector was shortlisted for its’ many attributes; a 2000 lumen output, a compact size, 4k projection, colour accuracy and its’ value for money.

“Our memorable moment with this project was the look on the client’s face during the client demo and hand-off. The client expressed his amazement to us over the following points. Every possible variable in the room was operable from a single interface, replacing an entanglement of multiple remotes and confusion and the overall experience – distinctly crisp and powerful – was discrete and crisp in set-up.”

Sound Sense soundsense.co.in

66 APRIL 2021

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It’s official...

Lyngdorf makes the world’s best surround processors “The Lyngdorf MP-50 processor and SDA-2400 amplifiers are now in a class of their own.” Widescreen Review “The Lyngdorf MP-60 delivers the best performance I’ve heard from any processor to date and I’ve heard them all.” AVForum “After living with the MP-60 for quite some time, I’ve come to the conclusion is the best processor money can buy.” Home Cinema Choice “With RoomPerfectTM, the MP-60 produces the best sound quality heard for the lowest cost so far. You get SOTA surround sound performance for much lower cost than with other top tier contenders.” Widescreen Review “I can categorically state that I have never heard such pristine home cinema audio outside the mixing suites at Skywalker Sound.” Home Theatre Forum “In my opinion the MP-60 exists in a class of its own with performance that is best described as perfect.” AVForum

Gecko Home Cinema • 01635 268114 • www.lyngdorf.com

2N ACCESS UNIT M Truly one in a million

PRODUCTS

FALL IN LOVE WITH VENUS FROM NEOD NEOD has launched the brand-new VENUS collection of wall mounted Mirror TVs via the maker’s UK Distributor Impact Screen Solutions Ltd. As consumers as well as high-quality retail and hospitality operators increasingly look for style and performance, delivering both is vital, providing a welcome differential point for installers.

NEOD creates its designs in-house at the company’s Italian HQ using the latest 3D modelling techniques and years of experience in the high-quality furniture sector. The VENUS range of wall mounted mirror TV solutions are designed to offer a wide range of choice to the customer, whilst maintaining a simple decision process. All the customer needs to do is select the correct screen size and then choose the style they need for the frame from a generous choice of over 40 exclusive finishes from the sample book.

The Venus Collection is available in four wallmounted sizes, 43in, 50in, 55in and 65in while the floor standing, full length model is available with integrated 43in TV. All the wall mounted products come ready to hang on the supplied, hidden wall mount to be hung directly onto the wall.

In terms of the TV technology itself, the products are home to a Samsung 4K Smart TV with the latest pre-installed APPs, which the maker says is virtually invisible behind the mirrored glass, until it is switched on of course.

Impact Screen Solutions says it is currently looking for UK dealers for this new product range with demo discounts offered. With an elegant new design, integrated Samsung 4K technology, updated mirror TV glass, all new frame finishes and new lower prices, Impact Screen Solutions says this is a great chance for installers to get involved with the brand for the first time, or for those who have worked with the brand before to take advantage of a great new line.

Impact Screen Solutions impactscreensolutions.co.uk

Beauty and technology combined in the Venus

Installer Inspired Mounts

COMPACT BUT MIGHTY SVS MICRO 3000 Distributor Karma-AV has introduced the miniature yet mighty SVS 3000 Micro subwoofer.

The dual-driver SVS 3000 Micro is designed to deliver strong bass from a cabinet measuring just 10.9in x 11.7in x 10.7in (278 x 297 x 271 mm).

Featuring innovations from the reference SVS 16-Ultra subwoofers married to active and opposing 8in drivers and an 800W RMS/2,500W Peak Sledge STA-800D2 amplifier with discrete MOSFET output, Karma AV argues the 3000 Micro delivers a performance that eclipses other micro designs while blending with any room and speaker system. It also features the SVS smartphone app for system tuning.

Fully active dual-opposing 8in SVS drivers are connected in parallel to a single power amplifier.

In this configuration, their creators say they receive identical amounts of current to ensure precisely controlled and mirrored operation. By firing in unison in opposing directions, the mechanical energy transferred to the cabinet is effectively cancelled, creating a sonically inert enclosure that resolves the age-old problem of micro subwoofers moving around a room. An inverted driver surround allows for maximum excursion and moves massive amounts of air from the diminutive enclosure to generate sound pressure levels you can feel at the deepest frequencies, adds SVS. Harnessing the power of the Sledge amplifier is a 50 MHz Analog Devices Audio DSP with 56-

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bit filtering: described as the most sophisticated DSP engine available in a home audio subwoofer.

Its creators say the model maintains pristine sound quality, which is faithful to the source material, through advanced in-room tuning, optimised frequency response curves and powerful DSP controls.

The 3000 Micro also features convenient control and custom pre-sets via the SVS subwoofer DSP smartphone app for Apple, Android and Amazon devices. The app is the most convenient way to control volume, access multiple DSP functions and programme custom pre-sets for one-touch tuning optimised for music, movies and gaming.

Chief offers a complete line of mounts and accessories for TVs, displays, projectors and other AV components. Whether it is a single display mounted in a boardroom, multiple displays to form a video wall (indoor or outdoor) or projector lifts, Chief has numerous solutions for any application.

Contact the experts at RGB today to find out more.

rgbcomms.co.uk or call us today on

Karma AV karma-av.co.uk

01488 73366 RGB Head Office, 2 Lambourn Business Park, Lambourn Woodlands, Hungerford, RG17 7RY

Distributor of the Year Finalist

The SVS Micro 3000 hides lot of power in its diminutive frame

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PRODUCTS

RAKO’S EOS BRINGS A NEW DAWN The EOS range of wired and wireless keypads from Rako have been created to blend a classic, timeless design with easy-to-use and customisable control that will appeal strongly to integrators, interior designers and their clients says the company.

“An untidy, complicated keypad can all too easily compromise both the design scheme as well as the experience of the customer, making for an unhappy client and awkward conversations for integrators and electricians,” comments Paul Wafer, Director at Rako. “It doesn’t need to be that way. The attractive, screwless design of our EOS keypads create a clean, uncluttered aesthetic, with different finishes to suit contemporary or more traditional interiors. Recessed into each plate are six push buttons, offering a reassuring, tactile interface and allowing easy configuration to suit particular client needs.”

The EOS keypad range is available in seven finishes – satin chrome, polished chrome, antique brass, polished brass, matt black, matt bronze and matt white – with custom button engraving achievable using Rako’s Plate Designer.

Available as wired or wireless NFC, EOS keypads have six configurable buttons, offering scene, curtain/blind and audio control options and are designed to be flush mounted into a standard

UK, single gang back box. Installation and set-up is simple using Rako’s Rasoft Pro software and a programming interface.

Rako rakocontrols.com

19” RACK SPECIALISTS!

The wireless EOS keypads provide integrators and installers with an easy to retrofit, wire-free solution

Part of the Infrastructure range from

BLUESOUNDS SETS PULSES RACING Bluesound has announced the PULSE SOUNDBAR+, billed as the ultimate audiophilegrade soundbar. The family comes in black and white variants (retail price is quoted as £799 for the black, £899 for the white) and is configurable to a range of home entertainment applications.

For ease of installation, it comes supplied with a wall mount bracket as well as two kickstand feet.

Designed to fit under HD TVs, the PULSE SOUNDBAR+ offers support for Dolby Atmos, 24-bit high resolution audio delivered by 8 highquality drivers, 120W of full frequency multiroom and multi-channel audio and a wide array of connectivity options.

The acoustic design and voicing for the PULSE SOUNDBAR+ was performed at Canada’s National Research Council

Capable of deep and crisp bass on its own, the PULSE SOUNDBAR+ can also be paired with the PULSE SUB+ to create immersive soundscapes for music, movies, concerts and games. Add a pair of PULSE FLEX 2i speakers as rear channels for a complete wireless Dolby Surround Sound experience. TVs, gaming consoles, music streaming services, laptops and music libraries can be accessed through HDMI eARC, Apple AirPlay 2, two-way aptX HD Bluetooth, TOSLINK, RCA, USB and the maker’s proprietary BluOS music streaming system.

The product features a powerful customspecified ARM Cortex A53 Quad-Core chipset that processes audio eight times faster than previous generations of Bluesound architecture.

Combined with two Wi-Fi chips to prevent network latency, this flagship board design offers rock solid and zero-lag audio performance, even for demanding gaming applications says Bluesound.

Simple touch controls on the front panel offer quick access to play, pause and volume. With a smartphone or tablet, the built-in BluOS wireless multi-room streaming technology can connect and sync audio to, from, and around any room in the home.

Hands-free control is made possible with Google, Amazon, and Apple compatibility while integrators can get access to drivers for Lutron, Crestron, RTI and Elan.

FIFTEEN YEARS AND COUNTING! Available from the experts at

rgbcomms.co.uk or call us today on

01488 73366 RGB Head Office, 2 Lambourn Business Park, Lambourn Woodlands, Hungerford, RG17 7RY

Distributor of the Year Finalist

Bluesound bluesound.com

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APRIL 2021 71

PRODUCTS

VELODYNE DIVES DEEP FOR DEEP BLUE Distributor Redline has announced the introduction of the latest bass solution from Velodyne Acoustics, the Deep Blue Series.

The new line offers four sizes of skilfully crafted subs (8in, 10in, 12in and 15in) housed in sleek enclosures, says the distributor, arguing that Deep Blue offers the best ‘pound for pound’ performance possible by cutting out all the extra digital superfluousness and packing and including nothing but the highest quality, proprietary designed components.

The Deep Blue Series (DB) represents the first, all new ‘ground up’ design from Velodyne in 10 years. A wholly brand-new subwoofer platform based on Velodyne Acoustics’ own internally created technologies. The maker says the main features of note are an uprated driver and a new amplifier design coupled to modern styling to give unmatched performance in its price range with a dynamic and highly accurate output.

Important features introduced for DB include a new rigidly braced MDF closed box design with a front firing woofer for a large impactful performance. A small footprint helps by giving more placement options and room integration. The new high excursion drivers partner with massive dual ferrite magnets and optimised internal motor

technology featuring powerful four-layer voice coils, delivering maximum output with low distortion. DB also features connection versatility, giving line-level and speaker-level inputs, variable crossover and phase control to fine-tune output.

These same controls allow an installer to tailor the subwoofers low-frequency response to the acoustics of the room.

Martin Morecroft, Redline MD, concludes, “When making choices for projects, it’s a real bonus to have ‘go to’ brands with a range of products that will deliver constantly strong results across a range of scenarios. This is what Velodyne has delivered with the Deep Blue Series. Reliable, high-quality bass in attractive cabinets that will do what you ask them to do and keep clients coming back for more.”

Redline red-line.co.uk

Bespoke Blinds QMotion Blinds go beyond industry standards to reach new heights in innovation.

The Velodyne Acoustics Deep Blue range is in stock now and ready for order.

HABITECH INTROS DRAYTEK VIGORSWITCH PRODUCTS Habitech, distributor to residential and commercial CI, has announced the introduction of a brace of new DrayTek VigorSwitch switches.

Part of DrayTek’s Layer 2+ line, the new VigorSwitch P2100 and G2100 are compact, high performance managed Ethernet switches, combining 10-port Gigabit capabilities with advanced network management features.

Designed for 1U rack mounting and silent fanless operation in SOHO environments, each offers eight RJ-45 Gigabit Ethernet ports and two SFP ports, the P2100 PoE+ variant sharing a generous budget of 140W from its LAN ports with wireless APs, IP cameras etc.

Advanced features available from the new models include Access Control, which manages specified traffic types moving between ports ( just like a firewall); IP Conflict Resolution, which blocks a device if it attempts to use an IP address that’s already in operation and ONVIF IP Camera Management, which allows for the easy discovery, management and troubleshooting of connected ONVIF IP cameras and NVR systems.

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Habitech says that while both DrayTek VigorSwitch products work well in standalone mode they are equipped for centralised management and can be provisioned and monitored by one of DrayTek’s central management platforms.

These include the VigorACS cloud management platform, VigorConnect on-site management and DrayTek’s router-based switch management.

These platforms reduce the setup time required for a complex network and allow the integrator to configure an entire DrayTek network remotely.

With no power or control wires required, integrators or end users can effortlessly install a fully motorised and intelligently controlled shading system without the need for using electricians or specialist installers.

Contact the experts at RGB today to find out more.

rgbcomms.co.uk or call us today on

01488 73366

Habitech habitech.co.uk

RGB Head Office, 2 Lambourn Business Park, Lambourn Woodlands, Hungerford, RG17 7RY

Distributor of the Year Finalist

New networking opportunities from Habitech and DrayTek

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PRODUCTS

LINN LAUNCHES THE ‘ULTIMATE STREAMER’ Linn has released details of its next-generation Klimax DSM, designed to be the ultimate streaming product.

A reimagining of its flagship streamer, the new Klimax DSM introduces an attractive custom-designed in-house made enclosure that provides acoustic isolation along with visual and tactile luxury. The enclosure cradles the most critical component, Organik DAC – the first allLinn digital to analogue converter.

Organik DAC combines FPGA processing with a discrete conversion stage, enabling Linn to precisely control and optimise every stage of digital to analogue conversion for the first time.

The FPGA stage uses custom-designed algorithms to provide increased up-sampling, more precise volume control and distortion free modulation. Its partnering discrete conversion stage renders the analogue signal with extremely low levels of distortion thanks to a new ultra-low jitter oscillator and carefully designed clock distribution network.

The mass of the product, coupled with internal damping, isolates it from vibration in the room, and precision-cut pockets and partitions separate the analogue, digital and power stages, fully protecting the electronics from any interference.

Linn says the control dial is rendered in the highest quality materials, from the turned brass bearing celebrating its provenance while creating the smooth handling of the precision-cut glass, to the photo-etched stainless-steel surround that encases each of the 100 status lights.

Connected analogue sources will enjoy an extra benefit thanks to a new higher performance, lower distortion ADC design which has its own circuit board with dedicated power supply, while Exakt Link ports enable direct connection of an LP12 with Urika II. A USB input enables direct connection to a computer and built-in wireless connectivity enables connection of sources via Wi-Fi or Bluetooth. The AV variant offers HDMI inputs and uses Organik DAC to enhance the performance of all connected sources. It also provides eARC for Smart TV support.

Two Klimax DSM variants are available.

Klimax DSM (Audio) for music only sources and Klimax DSM (AV), with its HDMI connections, provides an experience from movie sources.

Those seeking the highest performance from a complete Linn system, can opt for the new Klimax System Hub. It is housed in the same enclosure as next generation Klimax

DSM, includes the new ADC and in terms of connectivity, offers all the same inputs as Klimax DSM (AV), including the option to upgrade with surround capability.

The pairing of Klimax System Hub plus Klimax 350 speakers or Klimax Exaktbox, both with the new Organik DAC on-board, delivers a result that Linn says it out of this world.

Klimax DSM is available immediately and end user prices are quoted at; Klimax DSM (Audio) £30,000, Klimax DSM (AV) £30,000, Klimax System Hub £15,000 Linn linn.co.uk/try-linn

Linn says it has created the ‘ultimate streamer’

PARADIGM LAUNCHES FOUNDER SERIES UK distributor Pulse Cinemas says it is excited to introduce a whole new range from Canadian audio specialist Paradigm with the Founder Series, a six-model range of premium loudspeakers that brings high-end performance and luxurious style to Hi-Fi and home cinema systems.

Founder is the first completely new speaker line to be introduced since Paradigm founder

Many new technologies have been introduced for the Paradigm Founder Series

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Scott Bagby reacquired the company two years ago. Though it draws on nearly 40 years of Paradigm innovation and evolution from the award-winning flagship Persona range, it brings a host of new technologies to its driver designs, cabinet construction and the hardware that holds it all together.

Designed, tested, engineered and manufactured at Paradigm’s 225,000 square foot facility in Toronto, Canada, the new series includes three floorstanders, the Founder 80F, Founder 100F and the hybrid active/ passive Founder 120H with ARC Genesis room correction; along with the Founder 40B standmount, Founder 90C centre and Founder 70LCR which can be installed vertically or horizontally. The Founder Series has been created to offer anyone looking for great sound the ultimate in flexibility when it comes to system building says the manufacturer.

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All models are available in a choice of four finishes – Walnut or Black Walnut finequality wood veneer and Midnight Cherry or Piano Black high gloss. Paradigm’s patented technologies are developed in-house and along with strong attention to detail and exhaustive testing. The company says the products deliver dynamic, detailed and lifelike performance that out-performs higher-priced products.

Paradigm’s newest tweeter design is made lighter and stronger with a special combination of aluminium, magnesium and ceramic materials. It has a natural resistance to uncontrolled resonance that makes it more accurate and responsive. The Founder’s midrange driver is developed with listener sensitivity in mind. Focusing its performance where ears are most sensitive, the cone is a 6in Aluminium Magnesium alloy driven with a 2in multi-layered voice coil and a Perforated Phase Alignment (PPA) lens. To maintain clarity in the lowest frequencies, Paradigm has created an ultra-stiff, ultra-strong bass driver called CARBON-X in 5.5, 6, 7 and 8-in sizes.

Pulse Cinemas pulsecinemas.com

APRIL 2021 75

PRODUCTS

ROAM AROUND WITH SONOS Described as Sonos’ smartest and most versatile speaker, Roam is also dubbed as sounding ‘incredible’ for its size, effortless in set up and control packing new innovation into a premium, lightweight and durable design.

Sonos Roam is an ultra-portable smart speaker built to deliver great sound at home and away from home too, says its maker.

Fully connected to a Sonos system on WiFi at home and automatically switching to Bluetooth when outside, Sonos says Roam’s powerful, adaptable sound defies expectations for a speaker of its size. Weighing less than a pound, Roam’s durable design is designed for the home, garden or trips away. Roam is going to be available starting April 20 for GBP £159.

“We built Roam to give customers a way to bring the Sonos experience with them wherever they go,” says Patrick Spence, Sonos CEO. “It’s not only our smartest and most versatile speaker, it’s also our most affordable. Roam provides the opportunity for millions of new customers to get started with Sonos and is the right product at the right time as we begin to gather again with friends and family.”

With an all-new feature called Sound Swap, users can hold the play/pause button on the speaker to switch the music to the nearest speaker on their system, making it easy to move music from room to room. Connectivity tech also unlocks Bluetooth streaming for an entire system, with the Sonos app allowing users to group any Sonos speakers to the Roam when streaming with Bluetooth.

Roam works with more than 100 streaming services, including the maker’s own platform Sonos Radio and is controlled with the Sonos app, voice with Amazon Alexa or Google Assistant, Apple AirPlay 2, or directly from any favourite music service app.

Automatic Trueplay is now available when streaming via Bluetooth as well as Wi-Fi and means Roam should always be tuned for the best listening experience in any environment.

Roam is dust proof and waterproof with an IP67 rating with a quoted battery life of 10 hours on continuous playback, with a full charge.

Available in shadow black or lunar white, Roam has a triangular shape and soft profile designed to be comfortable to pick up

Sonos sonos.com

YALE AND AUGUST SING IN TUNE WITH DOORBIRD IP video door station will allow monitoring of DoorBird has some new friends in Yale and August

the front door, gate and/or garage door. With motion sensors and live in-app notifications when the doorbell is pressed, users will receive an alert whenever someone moves into the entrance area of the home.

Grant access to visitors remotely: Whether it is a neighbour, friend, or family member, users will be able to have a two-way conversation with any visitor through the integrated DoorBird camera and DoorBird app. Home owners will also be able to unlock the door from the same app from anywhere – no more copied keys or inconvenient dashes home to let someone in.

Never miss a delivery: Tired of missing packages or trying to outsmart porch pirates?

Simply use the DoorBird app to greet and grant delivery personnel temporary access to the garage, front gate or hallway, ensuring packages

DoorBird IP video door stations can now fully

with a Wi-Fi Connect and the Yale Assure

are always safely delivered to the home while

integrate with Yale and August smart locks.

Locks and Levers with Wi-Fi. Through the

away. Even if at home most of the day, users

Home owners can connect their smart lock to

DoorBird app, residents will have access to lots

can grant access from a desk or the couch for

the smart door station for a seamless ‘approach

of useful features.

ultimate convenience.

to entry’ experience.

Know who stopped by, even when out:

The new integration works with the August

Easily integrated into a home automation

DoorBird

Wi-Fi Smart Lock, any August Smart Lock

system through the DoorBird app, the DoorBird

doorbird.com

76 APRIL 2021

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essentialinstall.com

LET THERE BE LIGHT A revelation in display technology, Samsung’s ‘The Wall’ blends MicroLED light with AI optimisation for flawless HDR results on an awe-inspiring scale. Habitech introduces the ultimate in custom screen luxury…

The Wall forms part of our new suite of demonstration rooms at Basingstoke. Please contact the team to arrange a visit. www.habitech.co.uk | 01256 638500 | sales@habitech.co.uk

The ONE team for Smart Installers.

To learn more about these brands or speak to our specialist team call 01256 378550 or email exertisone@exertis.co.uk