AV News June 2023

AV applications of AI

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Right now, the broadcast media is obsessing with the risks of Artificial Intelligence. Quoting the late physics genus Stephen Hawking.

Promethean’s new State of Technology in Education report

Promethean has released its seventh annual State of Technology in Education report. The survey of UK educators and, for the first time, pupils, offers insights into the use of technology in schools and its impact on the well-being factors that make up the staff and student experience. According to the research, edu-

cators believe social-emotional learning (SEL) has become less of a priority in schools – with 6% fewer respondents saying it’s a key part of their school’s strategy compared to last year’s report. However, most are largely confident in technology’s ability to support SEL (57%), noting how it improves student engagement (71%) and strengthens collab-

InfoComm 2023: what’s on show?

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InfoComm is the largest professional audiovisual trade show in North America and second only to ISE on global sale.

PlexusAV unveils standards-based AV-over-IP ecosystem

orative or community-based learning (69%). However, the findings showed that almost a third (29%) of schools are yet to implement any SEL-dedicated measures at all.

The report also sheds light on the benefits technology provides to educators, with improved student engagement (71%) and behaviour (63%), and its ability

PlexusAV, the professional AV division of Sencore providing a suite of human-focused AV-overIP solutions, announces the AVN Series, including an IPMX Transceiver (P-AVN4), Plexus Visual Array Appliance (P-AVN-VSA) and Plexus Gateway (P-AVNGTW). Based on the framework of SMPTE ST 2110, PlexusAV’s AVN Series eliminates the stress of selecting an AV-over-IP technology by leveraging a standards-based solution.

PlexusAV’s P-AVN4 is an IPMX transceiver that can be easily configured to operate as an encoder or decoder. Featuring 1 Gigabit transport, the P-AVN4 harnesses IPMX to provide open standards-based with JPEG-XS, JPEG-XS FIP, H.264 and HEVC codec options. The P-AVN4 boasts three 1 Gigabit network ports, HDMI inputs and outputs with HDCP support, USB-C video inputs, analogue audio I/O and IR/RS232 support. With a simplified API, the P-AVN4 provides seamless integration with third-party systems to create a flexible solution for various professional AV applications.

The P-AVN-VSA is a central management and control solution that simplifies device monitoring. Featuring flexible two-lev-

el device grouping and filterable tagging functionality, the P-AVNVSA provides a simplified user interface for easy switching of sources and destinations. Like the P-AVN4, the P-AVN-VSA boasts a simplified API to enable seamless integration with third-party systems. Finally, the

erable, compatible, adaptable and stress-free AV-over-IP hardware and software solutions, at InfoComm 2023,” said Steven Cogels, global

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P-AVN-GTW is a gateway device that can connect to remote locations with support for SRT and RIST. The P-AVN-GTW includes H.264/265 protocol conversion for streamlined delivery to content delivery networks, lecture capture systems and cloudbased services.

“We are excited to unveil the AVN Series, a line-up of interop-

PlexusAV’s P-AVN4 is an IPMX transceiver that can be easily configured to operate as an encoder or decoder.

The report sheds light on the benefits technology provides to educators, with improved student engagement (71%) and behaviour (63%), and its ability to support experiential and immersive learning (67%), cited as the key plus points.

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Promethean’s new State of Technology in Education report

to support experiential and immersive learning (67%), cited as the key plus points. Many pointed to the advantage that more novel edtech innovations, like AI, provide to schools, with 98% saying they welcome these types of technology.

Revealing insights into pupils’ approaches to technology for the first time, the report found that students are resoundingly confident in the technology and its benefits, with 88% saying they enjoy using it in class. Reasons range from helping them connect with peers (83%), making topics more interesting (83%), helping them to focus (83%), and helping them to better understand different subjects (92%). Of the technologies available to students, tablets (59%)

outweigh smartphones (30%) in terms of preference. Meanwhile, robotics and coding (25%), and virtual and augmented reality (17%) are growing in popularity, but the results show that many young people are yet to feel entirely confident in their use.

“After the turbulence of 2020 and 2021, educators had an opportunity to rebuild a consistent and structured school experience without the risk of sudden closure,” said Jennifer Foreman, chief marketing officer at Promethean. “As part of our seventh annual report, we wanted to see how educators redefined learning, taking forward what had worked well when it came to the use of technology during the lockdown era, and how pupils have responded to

that. What we’ve learnt is that both educators and their pupils are embracing technology - not only how it supports lessons, but also interactivity between peers and students’ emotional needs. Educators are becoming more adept at selecting technologies that complement the curriculum and as a result, digital learning is becoming much more fluid. While there is always room for improvement, it's clear that technology continues to add value to the learning experience and support student achievement, and we anticipate next year’s findings will continue to support that theory.”

Promethean’s UK State of Technology in Education report can be downloaded at prometheanworld.com/gb/stateoftech.

Eurovision’s record-breaking drone show

Liverpool’s Eurovision Song Contest 2023 Opening Ceremony was marked by the largest single-location drone show in the UK to date, featuring 624 drones flown by Celestial as part of the National Lottery’s Big Eurovision Welcome alongside a performance by Eurovision icon Conchita Wurst of the 2014 winning anthem ‘Rise Like a Phoenix’.

The record-breaking drone display consisted of two 4-minute shows featuring Celestial’s signature ability to bring giant drone art organic forms to life, Ukraine’s national bird (the

White Stork) and Liverpool’s symbolic mythical creature (the Liver Bird. The drones took to the sky to spell out Liverpool Loves Ukraine before creating a 100 ft wide White Stork that then morphed spectacularly into the Liver Bird.

Over 25,000 people witnessed the 90-minute concert at St George’s Hall featuring performances from music legends like The Lightning Seeds, Atomic Kitten, and The Real Thing, and a reunion performance by Frankie Goes to Hollywood. “Our drone show for Eurovision celebrates

disguise supplies technology for the 2023 Eurovision Song Contest

disguise, the leader in real-time production technology with a 20year legacy powering the world’s biggest and most complex live shows, has announced it was an official supplier of the 2023 Eurovision Song Contest. This year marked the 67th edition of the world’s largest live music event, hosted in the UK on behalf of 2022 winner Ukraine, and the second time that disguise, a UK-headquartered company, was an official supplier (follow-

ing the 2019 edition in Israel).

disguise, known for pioneering a video mapping and pre-visualisation software that delivered show-stopping concert visuals for Massive Attack and U2 at the turn of the century, provided on-site and remote support for the song contest. Furthermore, disguise has also developed a customised solution to provide a more seamless stage management experience for this year’s three-day show. disguise has a

long-standing history supporting Eurovision, with their solutions powering the 2014, 2019,2021 and 2022 editions of the international Eurovision Song Contest.

disguise, known for pioneering a video mapping and pre-visualisation software provided onsite and remote support for the song contest.

Liverpool, music and of course Ukraine, the previous winners of the contest. Designing this show was a fantastic opportunity to bring unique expressions of harmony and togetherness over the skies of this incredible city. It is exactly what Celestial is all about; uniting people with a shared sense of wonder,” said John Hopkins, Founder & CCO, Celestial.

PPDS expands elite Global Partner Alliance network

PPDS has announced the expansion of its ‘Global Partner Alliance’ network, delivering unrivalled regional support and

Spain, the Alliance has grown by more than 50 additional partners – almost doubling numbers from 60 to 118 and now cover-

ing China and India – delivering enhanced specialist knowledge

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international expertise for customers across six continents. Officially launched at ISE 2022, PPDS’ exclusive, by invite, Global Partner Alliance (GPA) programme, was created to connect multinational businesses with PPDS’ top tier of regional integration specialists, for seamless execution of projects, of any scale, anywhere in the world.

Announced to members during the third global meeting for the PPDS GPA, hosted in Barcelona,

Liverpool’s Eurovision Song Contest 2023 Opening Ceremony was marked by the largest single-location drone show in the UK to date, featuring 624 drones flown by Celestial.

PPDS expands elite Global Partner Alliance network

and support across a range of industries, including hospitality, retail, education and corporate. Each Alliance partner is selected based upon their capabilities, certifications, and ongoing relationship with PPDS. All GPA partners are trained and certified to deliver the best knowledge and performance across PPDS’ portfolio of products, services, and solutions.

Heading up the PPDS GPA, Simone Gagliardi commented: “We have been thrilled by the continued success and unrivalled relationships being formed within our Global Partner Alliance since it was officially launched. We are delighted to welcome new members to the community, bringing even greater strengths and wider reach to deliver seamless and consistent services to customers almost everywhere on the planet. With the GPA, we aim to remove the pain points traditionally experienced with multinational integrations, reaching through regional barriers to ensure projects are completed consistently, quickly and efficiently. There is nothing quite like the PPDS GPA.”

Bringing a synchronised approach to customer service that spans from presales specification through to post-sales support, PPDS’ multinational customers are supported by the dedicated team of International Key Account Directors. Teams deliver on a single point of contact for projects in Europe,

Franck Racape, VP Global Commercial at PPDS: “The GPA, together with our International Key Account Management approach, have allowed us to develop even closer relationships with the channel, aligning to bring ever greater value to our mutual customers.”

Middle East, South Africa, North America, Asia Pacific, including China and India, and Oceania, as well as the GPA, mobilised to provide unrivalled simplicity and consistency, and precise planning and project roll outs worldwide.

Franck Racape, VP Global Commercial at PPDS, concluded: “At PPDS, we strive for excellence in everything we do, from the products we are making in our factories through to the support we offer for installation and beyond.

A significant and crucial part of that process is unquestionably our relationships with our partners. The GPA, together with our International Key Account Management approach, have allowed us to develop even closer

Zero Density Strengthens senior management team

Zero Density has announced the appointment of three new senior leaders to support the company's global growth and deliver enhanced customer-focused solutions. The new hires are CPO Amir Hochfeld, CCSO Raul Alba and CMO Ralf van Vegten, who are joining the company effective immediately in newly created C-suite positions.

Ofir Benovici, CEO of Zero Density, said: “This marks a major milestone in our growth plan. We're thrilled to have these media market executives join our team as we strive to offer improved solutions and services to our clients. Their varied back-

er Success Officer Raul Alba will prioritize exceptional support and service for customers, ensuring a seamless onboarding process and providing ongoing assistance tailored to customers' unique requirements.

As the new Chief Marketing Officer, Ralf van Vegten will be responsible for raising awareness of Zero Density's products and services and expanding the brand. His marketing efforts will be geared towards increasing market reach and ensuring that the company's innovative solutions are accessible to a broader range of customers.

hending our clients' needs and challenges, we can create products that enable them to produce even more captivating and immersive content.” Ralf van Vegten, CMO, said: “Becoming a part of Zero Density offers an amazing chance to work alongside the team and introduce our ground-breaking solutions to new markets and clients. Together, we can assist more broadcasters and content creators in enhancing their productions with our state-ofthe-art technology and solidify Zero Density's brand on a global scale.”

relationships with the channel, aligning to bring ever greater value to our mutual customers.

“Since launch, the GPA has advanced from being a list of valued partners to a true global community. Far from being competitors, many of our GPA partners are now in regular communication, supporting each other where needed and, as clearly demonstrated at our GPA dinner in Barcelona and at other exclusive GPA events, they have become close business allies in the process. On behalf of PPDS, I welcome all our new GPA members and thank everyone for their continued devotion. Here’s to expanding into another successful year.”

PPDS donates Philips interactive display to Irish primary school

PPDS is helping to bring new teaching and learning experiences to primary school children at Clonakilty (West Cork, Southern Ireland), by donating a 65” education-focused Philips interactive classroom display. Catering for over 380 local children, including providing specialist support for students with autism, the multi-denominational Gaelscoil Mhichíl Uí Choileáin received the donation after beating 4,000 other schools in Ireland to win the inaugural 'Education Mega Draw’ CSR Programme, run by PPDS partner, SchoolComputers.ie.

Aligned with PPDS’ commitment to helping children to reach their full potential through use of dedicated educational technologies, the Mega Draw from SchoolComputers. a specialist reseller for the Irish Education Sector. was created to reward one lucky school with a ‘technology makeover’, delivering a range of solutions worth a combined value of €20,000. Launched in 2022, schools were automatically entered into the Mega Draw upon completion of purchases made through SchoolComputers.ie, with additional entries added and the odds of winning increasing with every transaction.

In addition to receiving the collaboration in education inspired

Philips 4K interactive display – empowering teachers and pupils in creating highly immersive, engaging and, ultimately, inspiring learning environments.

Gaelscoil Mhichíl Uí Choileáin also received 30 x Chromebook computers for all year five students, a 32-port charging cart, an all-in-one printer for the school’s ASD unit, and a desktop scanner, all donated by other SchoolComputers.ie partners. See video here.

A celebration marking the event and showcasing all the tech products that have now been installed was recently held at the school, supported by City and County representatives, with special guest, Olympic medal winner and world rowing champion, Gary O’Donovan. Speaking at the event, Kendra Ingram, PPDS Business Manager for Philips professional displays, commented: “At PPDS we place great importance in supporting education and we are incredibly pleased to have been involved in this initiative with Schoolcomputers.ie, supporting with a 65” education touch screen from our Philips range of across campus displays. Many congratulations to Gaelscoil Mhichíl Uí Choileáin school on an outstanding win. We look forward to hearing about the amazing

outcomes and experiences this new technology supports in the months and years to come.”

Pádraig Ó hEachthairn, Principal of Gaelscoil, added: “This is unbelievable. To think that our school, out of over 4,000 schools in Ireland, has won this prize, is truly amazing. Just like Clonakilty itself, our school is growing year on year, and this requires us to have more tech resources for our pupils. Due to the phenomenal success of the 2022 competition, schoolcomputers.ie has announced it will be opening up its Education Mega Draw for all schools and colleges around Ireland to enter once again in 2023, with PPDS once again confirming its support.

Stephen Collins, Business Development Manager of SchoolComputers.ie, added: “It is essential that technology plays a part of our children’s education. The demands for technology resourcing grow year on year in schools all over Ireland and we are so proud to give back and support schools by giving them a chance to win our Education Mega Draw, which ultimately is life changing.”

Today, Zero Density, a leader in real-time graphics and virtual studio products, announced the appointment of three new senior leaders to support the company's global growth and deliver enhanced customer-focused solutions. The new hires are CPO Amir Hochfeld, CCSO Raul Alba and CMO Ralf van Vegten, who are joining the company effective immediately in newly created C-suite positions.

grounds and skills will contribute to establishing a solid groundwork for the expansion of our worldwide company, allowing us to better cater to our customers and address their ever-changing production requirements.” Each leader will focus on key targets that directly benefit customers. Chief Product Officer Amir Hochfeld will concentrate on aligning Zero Density’s product development strategy with customers' production needs and fostering innovation in its product offerings. Chief Custom-

With decades of experience in media technology at companies such as Avid and NEP, these new appointments will enable Zero Density to continue offering innovative, high-quality virtual production and broadcast on-air graphics products. They will also work to make these cutting-edge solutions more accessible to a broader range of customers.

Amir Hochfeld, CPO, said, “I'm eager to join Zero Density and contribute to the evolution of virtual studios and broadcast on-air graphics. By compre-

Raul Alba, CCSO, said: “It's an honour to join Zero Density and spearhead customer success initiatives. Our customers are the driving force behind everything we do, and my goal is to guarantee that they experience unparalleled support and service throughout their partnership with us. By recognizing their needs and closely collaborating, we can assist them in unleashing the full potential of our technology and generating outstanding content that captures audiences across the globe.”

VuWall expands its presence in Latin America

VuWall is expanding its presence in Latin America and today announced two new appointments as part of the company's investment in the region. Jorge Biatturi, appointed as Sales Director, and Diego Gudino, promoted to the role of Senior Applications Engineer, will ensure a strong local sales and engineering support team for the growing number of VuWall deployments in the area. Both will report to Eric Hénique, VuWall's Executive Vice President of International Sales “We have experienced an increased demand in the LATAM region, and these appointments reflect the investment in dedicated local resources to serve the needs of our partners and customers there," said Hénique.

“Jorge and Diego bring a vast understanding of ProAV and IT to their roles. With their technical background and knack for building great customer relation-

ships, they'll be vital part of our growth. I am very excited to work closely with them.”

Based in Uruguay, Biatturi will help increase market share and brand awareness in his new role. He has been in the AV market for more than 15 years as an

integrator and within the ProAV manufacturing community. Most recently, he was the Director of Integration at Vision Direct. "I

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VuWall expands its presence in Latin America

have had the pleasure of knowing the VuWall team for over 10 years," said Biatturi. “I have always admired the company's cutting-edge technology, their drive to push boundaries at the forefront of innovation, and most of all, the company culture. This position is an incredible opportunity to expand my reach to a broader range of applications within the AV sector and utilize my skills and experience to succeed in VuWall's mission to help Latin American integrators address control room needs with cutting-edge technology. I couldn't be more excited.”

Gudino has more than 20 years of experience in networking, bringing a unique technical expertise in both IT and AV to his role. A dedicated and valued member of the VuWall team for seven years, he has held various technical positions within the company. Gudino is fluent in Spanish, English, and French and possesses exceptional troubleshooting abilities, customer service skills, as well as extensive experience with onsite installations and project deployments in Latin America.

“The horizon of video walls and visualization has and continues to be shaped by VuWall's innovation,” said Gudino. “I'm excited to be part of the new team to build out the company's presence in LATAM. In this new role, I look forward to strengthening our customer relationships and helping them design best-inclass video wall deployments using all the features and benefits that have made VuWall a leader in the industry”

Tips to make workplace communication more effective

In today's digital world, it is hard to keep up with technological advances, and even the most dynamic of business leaders can miss ways to improve their communication strategy. Ways to improve workplace communication include implementing unified communication systems, which have soared in popularity since the pandemic and led to new ways to enhance communication.

Thousands of UK companies are now using Cloud-based systems, which suppliers, such as TelephoneSystems.Cloud, claim have allowed them to improve relationships with staff, customers, and stakeholders. More straightforward tips for effective communication in the workplace include planning weekly meetings and creating a psychologically safe work environment.

Juliet Moran, founder of TelephoneSystems.Cloud said:

“Having effective communication in the workplace directly impacts a company’s growth potential and is essential for successful functioning of any organisation. Strong communication in the workplace is crucial for business objectives to be hit, as well as building trust, improving relationships, and creating a more productive work environment. New strategies should be implemented, and business leaders should invest in line with digital advances, so their company doesn’t fall behind. If communication is unsuccessful in the workplace, it could lead to lost business and missed opportunities. Setting up an online communications plan and incorporating the latest communication tools should be seen as an investment, as it makes everything run more effectively”. TelephoneSystem.Cloud’s tips to make communication more effective:

Having weekly team meetings allows employees to share their goals, Give a shoutout to Annie Spratt on social or copy the text below to attribute.

1. Invest in cloud communication

Cloud communication unifies the workforce and customer base, streamlining work since everything is under one roof, such as voicemails, calls, chats, emails and other important files. If used efficiently, cloud management will cut wasted time by maximising workflow and improving productivity with all systems in one place. The cloud makes communicating in a post-Covid climate, where remote working is the new normal-

In a digital world where remote work is prevalent, these tools solve new workplace challenges by engaging employees and clients who cannot meet in person. Tools and software that enable communication and information sharing amongst employees, even if they are working remotely, should be implemented in all forward-thinking workplaces that want success.

3. Set up an online communication plan.

tral information hub in the form of a plan so employees can navigate the company's communication strategy and reference it should they have any questions. By developing and sharing an internal communication plan, employees will have a list of available communication tools and guidance on using them. This can help employees overcome problems, such as what channel should be used to communicate with colleagues in other departments.

Businesses should create a cen- Photo by krakenimages on Unsplash

4. Schedule Weekly team meetings.

Having weekly team meetings allows employees to share their goals, highlight important information and express any concerns they may have, resulting in greater transparency when working towards a common company goal. Ensuring all employees are aligned across the business to share new ideas and current priorities will create a safe space for everyone due to trust, transparency, and collaboration, improving company culture.

5. Create a safe space

Creating a work environment where employees can communicate openly with the team without fear of negative career implications will build trust and improve employee retention and engagement. A hostile work environment will see a lack of communication and transparency, which will have long-term negative consequences for the company. Workplaces that want to create a safe environment for their employees should develop a system where everyone can voice their concerns and opinions without fear.

Huddly champions value-added resellers

While other brands push products through ever-wider distribution strategies, Huddly is taking the opposite approach. In a new global program for value-added resellers, Huddly partners exclusively with select resellers and prohibits third-party platform sales. In the AV industry, one size does not fit all. Millions of people struggle daily with inadequate, unreliable AV gear. The pandemic years have forced

From July 3rd, 2023, only authorized Huddly Partners will be allowed to sell and represent Huddly. The company’s decision to halt third-party platform sales is a significant move towards boosting its channel business and maximising profitability, demonstrating its dedication to value-added reseller partners.

“Higher channel revenue is critical to our objective of increas-

In addition to deal registration, the program offers partners resources and support for growth. This includes access to product and marketing tools, technical support, and training programs. The program comprises three levels, each created to meet unique business goals. Huddly provides a range of benefits for partners who seek closer collaboration. These include funds for market development, sub-

Grow in life and business: The importance of Belief Systems in Convincing and Winning

Winning in a competition, be it in business or personal life, requires more than just meeting the requirements and having a good track record. There are several dimensions to convincing and winning, but the most important and often overlooked one is the belief system. This layer of values and expectations, although not directly mentioned, holds great value to the client.

Discovering both your own belief system and that of your client will give you brand new insights in the beliefs you share and the beliefs which di-vide you. Belief systems are the fundamentals of the Why, the How, and What things you create, make or buy. Here are the ingredients to discover when you want to start winning:

The Basics: Winning with the "What"

In a stable and predictable environment, the "what" is delivered is enough to win. For example, if a client requests a battery drill with 5000 revs, 7.2 Volts, and 2 years guarantee, delivering the drill is enough to win on a transactional level. The requester sets the requirements, and the supplier delivers them. This type of winning focuses on the "what." Adding the "How" to the "What"

However, if you deliver the requirements and price perfectly, but still don't win, you may be missing out on deeper factors. For instance, when we were looking to insulate and renovate the rooftop of our house, it was not just a transactional deal to us, but one of heavy investment and risk. In such cases, asking the experts "how" they are going to organize the work can make all the difference. For example, one company explained step by step how they are going to do the job, tailored specifically to my house, giving me trust and a good night's sleep. The company that ex-plained the "how" won the deal.

Combining the "What," "How," and "Why"

value-added resellers to compete with internet resellers and third-party platforms by offering standardised solutions.

To counteract this trend and drive growth for its channel partners, Huddly has launched a selective global partner program. Drawing on the experience of its commercial team, including CCO Daniel Johansson, who has a proven track record of implementing successful partner programs at Tandberg and Cisco, the Huddly Partner Program acknowledges the importance of value-added resellers in the industry. “Value-added resellers are at the heart of the AV industry,” says Johansson. “They excel at building strong client relationships by delivering bespoke solutions. Our new partner program is designed to support the great work done by resellers and help them achieve their business goals. Throughout the program's creation, we took great care to incorporate partner feedback to ensure that we provide them with the tools they need to succeed.”

ing gross margin, and we are committed to achieving this by supporting the long-term success of our resellers,” emphasizes Johansson. “To that end, we are implementing a selective distribution policy to ensure our partners' success through focused partner enablement and support. We are fortunate to have great relationships with key global resellers and believe this program will strengthen our bond with them while adding value for our end users.”

The program is selective and comprehensive, providing resellers with substantial benefits to help them increase their margins while protecting the value chain. As Johansson notes: “Our partners' hard work and success are integral to our own, and we want to reward their efforts.

Approved Huddly Partners will enjoy the protection of our powerful deal registration program, which provides pricing benefits and promotes close alignment with Huddly for those who lead with our solutions and register projects early.”

stantial discounts, personalized support, and the opportunity to sell the Huddly Crew AI-directed multi-camera system, recently awarded by Frost & Sullivan for its innovative approach to hybrid meetings. Johansson comments: “As a company committed to empowering human collaboration, Huddly recognizes the importance of strong partnerships. We opted for a selective approach to prioritize close collaboration with partners who share our commitment to tailored solutions and exceptional customer care. Together, we can provide users with the best experience.”

Applications for the Huddly Partner Program are now being accepted now, and Huddly has set up an online authorization process that lets resellers register their interest. To be eligible, resellers must have an agreement with an authorized Huddly distributor. Visit www.huddly. com/partner to learn more and apply.

Besides the "what" and "how," the "why" can make a significant differ-ence in winning. For instance, in the hiring process, two questions to al-ways ask are "why do you want to work for us?" and "why should we hire you?" A good answer to the "why" shows intrinsic motivation and commitment and demonstrates a strong match and synergy with other employees in the company. The more challenging and dynamic the de-pendence between parties, the more important the "why" becomes in winning.

Taking it One Level Deeper: The Belief System

There is one more aspect to consider in winning. It is the least visible, or even invisible to most and that is your belief-system. This is present in every person, team, and organization, but is not openly discussed. The belief system is the set of unwritten rules that govern behaviour in a group. What if I make a set of house rules with: “Rule number one - In this house, we don’t kill each other”. Imagine you come to my house for the first time and see this rule. Would you feel comfortable and safe?

You are probably thinking: “Wow, these people are obviously not from the same planet if they have to spell this out as a rule.” This works the same way in business.

In business, failing to pay attention to the relevant belief systems can re-sult in a situation where you think you have delivered the best proposal ever, only for the client to respond that you "haven't understood a single thing of what we're doing here."

The belief system, and the other aspects of winning can be best explained using a tree as a metaphor.

•The WHAT is like the apples on a tree. They are the things we look at and value first.

•The branches and leaves of the tree are the HOW. Many leaves and branches make it possible to produce great many apples.

•The tree trunk is our WHY. It is strong, solid and essential to grow high and let the leaves catch lots of sunlight.

•The roots of a tree is our BELIEF-SYSTEM. It is invisible, but es-sential to the tree’s trunk, branches, leaves and fruits.

Sometimes winning is as easy letting someone a pick an apple from the tree (transactional winning). In many other cases where the transaction is more complex, dynamic and outcome uncertain, assessors (buyers, jury etc.) will look seriously at the other factors: How will they do it? Why do they do this? Getting insight into the whole tree is important for long term and sustainable winning, producing the right and great apples every year.

About the author:

Patrick Alexander, the author of the book

‘The secret of Value Based convincing Winning’ is an expert in winning and shaping the winning process. During his career he won and lost multiple times. As an inven-tor, he participated in a national contest with 2000 others and tackled several stages before winning this contest. During the last 10 years as a proposal architect, he worked with dozens of teams in making complex and winning proposals and tenders, contributing millions of Euros per year to his company’s revenue. Patrick’s mission is: Let people, teams and organizations with the highest value win. Let those win, who most deserve it!

More information on http://www.valuebasedwinning.com.

The book can be ordered via the website and https://www.amazon.co.uk.

In a new global program for value-added resellers, Huddly partners exclusively with select resellers and prohibits third-party platform sales.

Used by thousands worldwide, this affordable solution elevates engagement and empowers presenters. Utilising the latest anti-glare technology, the G-Touch® Sapphire ensures that content is always visible from any seat in the room. With crystal clear audio via the front facing speakers, it is ideal to incorporate video presentations. Along with 4K LED display technology, massively reducing the amount of electricity used to operate.

work with multiple users with 20-point multi-touch.

presentations with 178º viewing angle and anti-glare.

Included with every Sapphire screen is our SPARK II software. Designed to provide the presenter with an infinite canvas area, with the ability to run over the top of other applications allowing you to annotate and highlight and manipulate objects. You will also get access to the built in G-Touch® voting system that allows the presenter to create polls within seconds and the audience to scan a QR code and answer instantly.

RGB Communications partners with Devialet

RGB Communications has signed a distribution agreement with Devialet, an audio technology company renowned for its high-end audio solutions. The agreement will see RGB Communications become an official distributor of Devialet's range of speakers and amplifiers in the UK and Ireland. This partnership marks a new step for both companies as RGB continues to expand its portfolio of high-quality audio solutions and Devialet strengthens its presence in the UK market. Through this distribution agreement, RGB Communications will now offer its customers access to Devialet's award-winning audio products, including the Phantom range, which is known for its exceptional sound quality and sleek design. Caroline Britt, Managing Director of RGB Communications, is excited about the new partnership with Devialet, stating, “We are thrilled to have signed this distribution agreement with Devialet. Their products are renowned for their exceptional sound quality and design, and we are excited to be able to offer them to our customers. Devialet's commitment to innovation and quality aligns perfectly with RGB Communications' values, and we are confident that this partnership will be a great success.”

Devialet is widely recognised as one of the most innovative and forward-thinking companies in the audio technology industry.

are pleased to count on RGB's strong reputation and expertise to develop the exposure and presence of our brand in the UK

Evolve IP EMEA partner engagement continues growth

Evolve IP has announced the addition of a series of new reseller partners across the EMEA region – to fuel continued growth in its partner network and expansion of its cloudbased Unified Communications platform that reaches more than 73 countries. The company’s successful partner model is built on a combination of a deep understanding of partner needs, customer use cases, training, co-sales, implementation, support resources, platform resiliency and geographic coverage, as well as support for important charitable causes.

Recently, Evolve IP kicked off its partner event schedule by hosting a successful golf day with key resellers, technology partners and the Evolve IP EMEA

team, all in support of UNICEF, its chosen charity for 2023. A total of 32 players tee’d off at the Downs Course, Goodwood amidst a collaborative and competitive spirit helping to raise funds for the children’s charity. The event, aimed at collaboration, brought together players from the partner and client community where relevant industry issues, priorities, and goals were a central theme. Sponsors included Akixi, Dubber, Enghouse Networks, Intelligent Billing, Green IP, Knight Corporate Finance, Mason Hayes & Curran, ProVu and Bandwidth.

Jamie Hughes, Evolve IP’s UK Sales Director, commented afterwards: “The Evolve IP success story continues to grow with the recent addition of 11

new reseller partners. Productive partnerships represent the cornerstone of our business and the golf day was a great use of everyone’s time. Needless to say, the course was quite tough, but the weather was warm, and the conversation was lively. It was a brilliant way to have some fun, bring people together, network and discuss ways of working smarter and more efficiently. Plus, we did a good deed raising valuable funds for charity.” Evolve IP EMEA is planning more events throughout 2023 to further develop its partner network, expansion of geographic coverage and solving client’s distributed communications challenges.

With their range of products (from amplifiers to speakers, soundbar and true wireless earbuds), they have garnered a reputation for producing high-quality, cutting-edge audio solutions. Their Phantom iconic range is particularly noteworthy, with a unique design and unparalleled sound quality that has earned them numerous industry accolades. Similarly, Alexandre Kreutz, Executive Director B2B and Licensing at Devialet said: “We

market. RGB will be a choice partner to showcase Devialet’s unique listening experience we offer with our products and B2B solutions”. RGB has built a reputation for excellence in the audio-visual industry, offering a range of cutting-edge solutions for both residential and commercial applications. With their new partnership with Devialet, RGB is well positioned to offer its customers some of the most innovative and high-quality audio solutions on the market.

AtlasIED and Fyne Audio announce strategic collaboration

AtlasIED has announced a strategic investment in high-performance UK-based loudspeaker manufacturer, Fyne Audio. The partnership combines AtlasIED’s expertise in integrated solutions with Fyne Audio’s premium transducer technologies to open broader market opportunities for both companies. Fyne Audio of Glasgow, Scotland, was founded in 2017 with support from investors including Scottish Enterprise, Scotland’s national economic development agency. The management and engineering teams are all audio veterans, specifically in the field of point source technology for commercial and residential applications. The company has seven loudspeaker product ranges, including multiple award-winning products from the entry level F300 Series to the contemporary flagship F1 series. Fyne Audio’s “retro-inspired” Vintage and Vintage Classic loudspeaker series secured industry accolades with an unrivalled blend of heritage, experience, and engineering. Optimised by the very latest techniques in transducer design, the company’s IsoFlare constant directivity driver features coincidentally aligned midbass and tweeter sections for a true point source, ensuring wide and controlled dispersion for optimum coverage.

AtlasIED is one of the indus-

try’s largest manufacturers of diverse commercial audio ecosystems. The company’s high-performance Atmosphere audio system combines digital audio processors, amplifiers, graphical user interfaces, programming software, and controls to set a new operational and performance standard for digital audio systems for a range of commercial applications, including restaurants, bars, hotels, houses of worship, and retail establishments. “When we started looking at premium solutions for commercial audio our team knew they wanted to harness the advantages of point source technology and began a collaboration with Fyne Audio,” said Matt Czyzewski, EVP of AtlasIED. John Ivey, President of AtlasIED, continues: “Our long term commitment to the company and the technology was further demonstrated by making a significant investment in Fyne

NOA Signs with Abu Dhabi Media

NOA Signs with Abu Dhabi Media AV digitizing and archiving specialist NOA GmbH has won a major contract with United Arab Emirates-based public service broadcaster and media company Abu Dhabi Media. Systems integrator Broadcast Solutions Middle East has been working

kind and number of audio and video ingest stations and server-side tools into an effective industrial digitization facility. It connects audio (and video) capture, quality control, and other client workstations as well as server-side tools and transforms them into an efficient industrial digitization facility. In addition,

we can assist the organization in streamlining its large-scale digitization process with our reliable tracking and quality ingest systems.”

This is the second large deal for NOA in the UAE. In 2017, Sharjah Broadcasting Authority, the government organization dedicated to developing the media

Audio, and establishing a collaborative partnership. AtlasIED is one of the most respected companies in the industry and has decades of experience delivering commercial audio products and solutions,” said Anji Sosna, managing director at Fyne Audio. “As we’ve observed the evolution of the audio industry, we recognized AtlasIED as the ideal partner for us to reach our goals and create more opportunities for Fyne Audio technology to delight customers in more markets.”

Part of AtlasIED’s long term vision and journey is a commitment to continued innovation based on client feedback and industry evolution. The investment in Fyne Audio is key in this pathway for AtlasIED and will result in both quick and deliberate advancement for the organisation.

with NOA to manage the project, which includes the delivery and installation of a complete audio and video archive workflow system in Abu Dhabi and Dubai for the digitization of the organization’s entire national radio and television archive including 153.000 audio tapes and 340.000 hours of video.

As part of the agreement, a scalable jobDB workflow management system will be installed as a basis for the facility comprising 16 channels of audio ingest with NOARecord and N7000c audio hardware units on four ingest places as well as 32 channels of video ingest with NOA FrameLector , five BarcodeStation custom script creation stations, five UniversalDialoger scanners and five full-scale MediaButler transcoding processors. In addition, the package includes a carrier positioning system for the required multisite logistic realization.

The jobDB workflow orchestration system can combine any

jobDB allows the setup of processes for capturing, reshaping, and analysis of media as required for archiving, transcoding, or other complex business processes. It integrates automatic, semiautomatic, and manual or instructive process steps in a well-defined and complex process flow.

“This project is the largest Archive Transfer Technology installation to take place in the Middle East,” explains NOA’s managing partner Jean-Christophe Kummer. “ADM decided to approach this task with a CAPEX investment in mind — not as an outsourced service, since they have all gear, expertise and staff in-house and wanted to maintain control of the assets from a legal point of view. In addition, ADM is relying on us to manage the logistics of all carriers between the archive in Abu Dhabi and the ingest facility in Dubai. We are thrilled to continue our global expansion with this prestigious project and are confident

industry in the emirate of Sharjah in the UAE, purchased its first mediARC for the digitization and management of its entire legacy video archive. Subsequently in 2021, SBA purchased – besides a second mediARC system as part of its disaster recovery plan – also a complete OTT ready integration to ensure the preservation and presentation of its archive now and in the future. Established in 1969, ADM, which is part of ADQ, has become one of the largest media companies in the Middle East and GCC regions. The organization operates across the broadcast, publishing, and digital media sectors. In addition, the new addition of ADRadio’s digital platforms and applications features audio and podcast streaming across the radio assets.

RGB Communications has signed a distribution agreement with Devialet, an audio technology company renowned for its high-end audio solutions.

AtlasIED has announced a strategic investment in high-performance UK-based loudspeaker manufacturer, Fyne Audio.

Video Europe expands with new Cardiff location

Video Europe, the largest sub-rental provider of cameras, lenses and accessories to the broadcast and production industries in Europe, has opened a new location in Cardiff. The Welsh capital has long been an important centre for media, and it continues to thrive with major studios and production companies active in the region, not least in prestige drama.

Video Europe is now 50 years old, established in 1973 to fill a strong market need for high quality equipment in the movie and broadcast sectors. The new facility in Cardiff supports the growing industry in Wales and the West by providing direct and rapid access to all the latest equipment. Video Europe Cardiff will offer the same high-quality service, equipment and expertise that customers have come to expect. “The industry in Wales, and just over the Severn Bridge in Bristol, is full of creative talent and dynamic energy,” said Matt Marner, director of Video Europe. “We are holding a large inventory in our new Cardiff base so we can respond to customer demands quickly, with full support and of course the benefit of a lower carbon

footprint by removing the need to drive kit down the M4. This is an expansion that we are very excited about.”

Video Europe Cardiff will be managed by Tom McNally, who has over 20 years of experience in the rental industry. Callum Barrand joins the team as bookings coordinator. With their local colleagues and the full resources of Video Europe, Tom and Callum are dedicated to providing the best possible customer

CUK Group partners with Intrinsic Dev

CUK Group, the rapidly growing distributor specialising in custom installation and residential AV products in the UK and Ireland, has announced its partnership with Intrinsic Dev. This

for installers. “With an extensive knowledge of Nice/ELAN, including their history of providing training and support for the brand and their involvement as key developers of Nice/ELAN

Director at Intrinsic Dev reveals that “Delivering training sessions and supporting the wider CUK Group customer base and tech support team is also beneficial for Intrinsic Dev. As we

service as well as ensuring that clients have access to the latest equipment available. “We have become the largest in the business because we provide the support that our customers demand,” Marner said. “Our thanks go to all those customers who regularly turn to Video Europe, and we look forward to serving them from our new Cardiff facility.”

collaboration aims to enhance CUK Group's support and training services, ensuring top-notch training and assistance for Nice/ ELAN smart home automation solutions.

Founded and operated by professionals with first-hand experience in the custom installation industry, Intrinsic Dev write, sell, and support drivers for the leading control platforms that enable seamless integration of products

drivers, Intrinsic Dev is the perfect partner.” says Stuart Thomson, MD of CUK Group.

Thomson further explains that CUK Group is eager to expand the capabilities of the Nice/ ELAN ecosystem in commercial AV applications. Consequently, the partnership will involve developing drivers that facilitate the effortless deployment of Nice/ELAN in various commercial settings. Sam Breen,

Genelec strengthens MEA distribution network

Genelec has significantly strengthened its distribution network in the MEA region through the signing of two new distribution agreements. Johannesburg-based ApexPro are handling the distribution of Genelec’s Pro and AV loudspeaker ranges across Southern Africa, while Dubai-based Sound Reference will be servicing the Home Audio market throughout the GCC group of countries. Both appointments signal Genelec’s commitment to what has become an increasingly important region in the global loudspeaker market.

ApexPro is part of South Africa’s well-established Prosound Group of companies, which over the last fifty years has established a close affiliation with clients in the professional broadcast, music production and Pro-AV verticals. The distribution agreement covers the Southern African region – comprising South Africa, Botswana, Mozambique, Namibia and Zimbabwe – and with satellite offices in Durban, Cape Town and Gaborone, ApexPro will focus on the distribution of Genelec Professional loudspeakers via the dealer channel, while AV Worx – part of the same Prosound Group – will provide value-added distribution by concentrating on supplying Genelec Professional and AV solutions to system integrators working in audio-visual production, music production, AV applications plus education and research.

Founded in Dubai in 2021 by Muhammed Amras, Sound

Reference will be supplying Genelec loudspeaker systems to the Home Audio market across the GCC nations: Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, the United Arab Emirates, Qatar, Bahrain and Oman.

Supported by General Manager Suresh Thadani – who himself

has over 25 years of audio distribution experience – Sound Reference will be working with a network of dealers across the region, while supporting sales in the UAE via its impressive Genelec Experience Centre in Dubai. “Genelec is the standard

by which all other loudspeakers are judged by professionals in the global audio industry,” comments ApexPro director Mark Malherbe. “Ensuring reliable and supported access to Genelec’s class-leading products is an essential part of de-

livering on our commitment to provide world-class technology and solutions to our growing pro audio industry in Southern Africa. We’re confident that our extensive network of broadcast and production professionals, AV integrators and end users

Genelec International Sales Director Ole Jensen concludes: “We can see the growth potential that the MEA region represents, and we’re extremely excited about working with ApexPro and Sound Reference, both of whom have high levels of experience and professionalism.”

continue to grow, it is key for us that we stay close to the market; partnering with CUK Group provides an excellent opportunity to achieve that goal and I can’t wait to get started.”

in the entertainment, commercial and education markets will embrace all that Genelec has to offer in the years ahead.”

Sound Reference’s Muhammed Amras adds: “We have a very close relationship with Farooq Pasha, who’s company – Audio Video People – has had great success as a Genelec Home Audio dealer in Bangalore, India. Working with Audio Video People, we recognised the opportunities that representing Genelec in the GCC region would create – it’s a fast-developing market, and the booming tourism industry is generating significant demand for high quality loudspeaker solutions in the Home Audio and AV segments.”

Genelec International Sales Director Ole Jensen concludes:

“We can see the growth potential that the MEA region represents, and we’re extremely excited about working with ApexPro and Sound Reference, both of whom have high levels of experience and professionalism. It also showcases the fact that Genelec’s strong studio & broadcast customer base is now being supported by a growing number of discerning customers in the AV and Home Audio markets. This really underscores the fact that exceptional sounding, sustainable, aesthetically beautiful loudspeaker solutions are in demand everywhere – whatever the application.”

Video Europe, the largest sub-rental provider of cameras, lenses and accessories to the broadcast and production industries in Europe, has opened a new location in Cardiff.

Optoma unveils N-Series professional displays

Optoma has launched its new N-Series professional displays with intuitive friendly software for businesses to connect, present and collaborate globally, both in-person and remotely. Featuring portrait and landscape orientation, Optoma’s N-Series is built for usage in corporate lobbies and reception areas, conference rooms, lecture halls, digital signage and other professional environments.

In response to the growing demand for commercial display solutions, Optoma designed the new N-Series Professional Displays to enhance the current conferencing setups of corporate and education settings to accommodate hybrid work and distance-learning scenarios. Engineered for simplified connectivity and heightened engagement, the N-Series Professional Displays offer wireless content sharing with Creative Cast, along with live content viewing and real time collaboration with Optoma’s 5-Series interactive flat panel displays via Creative Board. With a built-in media player and scheduling functionality, users can display information, create, and customise their own playlist for any date and time. Additionally, users can also upload files

wirelessly and access the cloud on popular systems such as Google, Microsoft, and Dropbox through Optoma’s File Manager. Similar to Optoma’s interactive flat panel displays (IFPDs), the new professional displays feature superior brightness, an ultra-slim bezel with anti-glare glass along with a low blue-light filter and certified flicker-free technology, providing a better display experience compared to TV monitors currently in the market. Available in five screen sizes, 55”, 65”, 75”, 86” and 98”, the N-Series is compatible with a variety of accessories such as Optoma’s new SC26B USB web camera and BM21 Bluetooth speaker, as well as other peripherals, serving as an all-in-one display solution. Additionally, the professional displays can be wall-mounted or attached to an optional motorised trolley for additional flexibility.

“Our new N-Series Professional Displays fill a need in the market for non-interactive commercial displays that are engineered for use in corporate and education settings, as well as offering superior display performance and integrated features and software,” said Chris Hayward,

Genelec monitor delivers unrivalled power and precision

Product Manager at Optoma. A value-added solution, Optoma Management Suite Cloud (OMS) is available on the N-Series Professional Displays, offering IT administrators and technicians a real time remote platform to monitor, manage, and diagnose multiple displays simultaneously that are either on the same network or connected through the cloud server. OMS enables technicians to check the status and make configurations to optimize performance and broadcast emergency messages, alerts, or announcements across displays worldwide.

Optoma has launched its new N-Series professional displays with intuitive friendly software for businesses to connect, present and collaborate globally, both in-person and remotely.

Introduces 97” version of Beovision Harmony

Bang & Olufsen has announced that the impressive new 97” version of the renowned Beovision Harmony will be available to customers, elevating the cinematic experience to newfound heights. The Beovision Harmony 97” edition not only features the largest LG OLED screen on the market, but also new wood and aluminium speaker covers, matching the 2,15-metre-wide screen, which unfolds to reveal the display, providing a touch of

magic to the home cinema experience, all while championing Scandinavian design principles, craftmanship and unmatched audio quality.

The 97” Beovision Harmony will be available in Black Anthracite, Natural Aluminium, and Gold Tone finishes combined with wood, as well as offering a fully customizable bespoke design solution from Bang & Olufsen’s Atelier service. The new size is an addition to the current port-

As part of its 45th anniversary year, Genelec has unveiled the 8381A Smart Active Monitoring system, a flagship floor-standing Adaptive Point Source design that fuses exceptional precision and envelopment with unrivalled LF control, huge headroom and high-resolution imaging. Designed for high end music recording, mastering and audiophile listening, the 8381A creates a free-standing full range monitoring solution that can intelligently adapt to any acoustic environment.

tically coaxial right down to bass frequencies and draws on proven technology developed for Genelec’s patented and award-winning ‘The Ones’ family of point source monitors and the W371A Adaptive Woofer System, which themselves can combine to create a free-standing full-range monitoring system. However, the 8381A raises the performance bar even higher by offering controlled

acoustic design – the 8381A offers the most sophisticated features and specification of any audio monitor currently available.

At the heart of the 8381A is a proprietary high SPL Minimum Diffraction Coaxial (MDC) midrange/tweeter driver which – combined with a powerful Genelec DSP engine – delivers extraordinary clarity, imaging and adaptability. This MDC driver shares a common acoustical

folio, which consists of 65”, 77”, 83”, and 88” options, making it possible to achieve a powerful sound and vision experience no matter how big or small the room. Beovision Harmony can also be seamlessly connected in an immersive sound setup. Bang & Olufsen’s Beolab 90, Beolab 50 or Beolab 28 home speakers are the best choice for an even more impactful immersive sound experience.

For audio professionals, the 8381A produces accurate full-band mixes that translate consistently to other rooms and playback systems, while audiophiles will experience every detail and nuance of a musical performance, just as the creators intended it to be heard.

As a member of ‘The Main Ones’ range, the 8381A system is acous-

directivity and uncoloured response both on and off axis, with an ultra-wide frequency response spanning from 20 Hz to 35 kHz. Additionally, with almost 6 kW of amplifier power and a staggering maximum SPL of 126 dB – the highest figure ever achieved by a precision point source

axis with the 8381A’s four complementary 5-inch dome drivers which are arranged as a midrange transduction system, and this unique array combines with a forward-facing 15-inch woofer to provide outstandingly stable directivity, control and coherence.

continued on page 13

Genelec has unveiled the 8381A Smart Active Monitoring system, a flagship floor-standing Adaptive Point Source design that fuses exceptional precision and envelopment with unrivalled LF control, huge headroom and high-resolution imaging

The Beovision Harmony 97” edition not only features the largest LG OLED screen on the market, but also new wood and aluminium speaker covers, matching the 2,15-metre-wide screen, which unfolds to reveal the display.

Genelec monitor delivers unrivalled power and precision

To further enhance and extend the 8381A’s low frequency reproduction, a pair of high performance 15-inch woofers employ the LF adaptive technology originally developed in the W371A, offering high resolution and supreme levels of low frequency control – despite the effects of room acoustics. This technology allows the 8381A to tailor performance carefully to the room, offering flatter, smoother in-room response at the listening location, with LF imaging coherent with the full audio range. This flat and neutral LF response minimises acoustic notching, and reduces detrimental reflections and resonances by the walls, ceiling or floor of the room. As part of Genelec’s Smart Active Monitoring family, the 8381A integrates tightly with Genelec’s GLM software, which can configure, calibrate and control entire Genelec smart monitoring systems. Based on

experience from thousands of studios around the world, GLM minimises the listening room’s influence on the sound, enabling the user to produce mixes that translate perfectly to other systems, whether the format is stereo, surround or high channel count immersive. GLM also includes the ground-breaking GRADE room report feature, which gives the user a complete analysis of their room and monitoring system performance, providing specific observations and advice on any acoustical issues, helping users and studio designers alike to fine tune the room’s acoustic treatment, adjust monitor and listener positions, and optimise bass management. Designed and manufactured to the highest standards of sustainability and environmental responsibility at Genelec’s headquarters in Iisalmi, Finland, the 8381A comes with a comprehensive SonicAdvisor system

calibration and service package to jointly celebrate Genelec’s 45th anniversary, and the company’s total commitment to its customers and to sustainable development. “The demand for high quality free-standing full-range monitoring systems has been clear from the exceptional response to The Ones and W371A combination,” comments Genelec Managing Director Siamäk Naghian. “It was also evident that there was a desire from customers for a free-standing system that could deliver even more headroom and increased low frequency extension. And while we continue to offer a wide range of soffit-mounting main monitors, we’re confident that the flexibility and mobility of a floor-standing adaptive system like the 8381A will provide the perfect solution for any discerning user seeking a truly next-generation sonic reference.”

Digital Projection’s TITAN 41000 and M-Vision 27000 feature world-firsts

Digital Projection (booth #3029) is building on its legacy of innovation with the introduction of two of its most advanced laser projectors to date. The new TITAN 41000 4K UHD and M-Vision 27000 WUXGA projectors are packed with cutting-edge capabilities, including unprecedented brightness, vibrant colour rendering, a more compact footprint and improved, market-leading efficiency, for exceptionally bright, accurate, lifelike images for a wide range of commercial environments.

Engineered with technology to support even the most demanding of applications, the M-Vision 27000 WU boasts an unparalleled 27,000 lumens output and 10,000:1 contrast ratio, bringing budget-sensitive applications a large-screen imaging solution and near 3-Chip performance at a 1-Chip price point. The new TITAN family of laser projectors, meanwhile, delivers up to 47,000 lumens at WUXGA and 41,000 lumens at 4K-UHD resolutions. Both models incorporate Digital Projection’s ColorBoost+RedLaser technology, which utilises red laser alongside the traditional blue laser phosphor system to display brilliant, vibrant colours.

Built into the TITAN 41000 4K UHD (3840x2160) projector chassis are several leading-edge technologies that make it a choice imaging solution for higher-end large venue applications, such as auditoria, performing arts centres, visitor attraction venues, houses of worship, and rental and staging. The new TITAN family is a huge leap forward over the popular current models, with many aspects completely reimagined and re-

Logitech brings equitable meeting experiences to small rooms

Logitech International (NASDAQ: LOGI) has announced Rally Bar Huddle - a premium allin-one appliance-based video bar for huddle and small rooms, and the newest addition to Logitech’s family of conference cameras. Designed to deliver equitable video conferencing meetings with ease, Rally Bar Huddle is quick to set up, simple to manage, and easy to integrate with Tap IP through CollabOS. As companies redesign their

room out there.”

Rally Bar Huddle is designed for rooms up to six people to ensure every participant is seen and heard clearly. Built-in AI video intelligence and 4K image quality welcome remote participants to the conversation. The redesigned ported-audio system makes Rally Bar Huddle two times louder than Logitech MeetUp. Advanced sound pickup via six beamforming mics and AI-based noise suppres-

ployed three ways. It works with both a dedicated Windws or ChromeOS computer; in BYOD mode; or runs supported video conferencing applications on the device in appliance mode without an external computer. Rally Bar Huddle works with leading video conferencing platforms, including Microsoft Teams, Zoom, and Google Meet. IT teams can take Rally Bar Huddle out of the box and have the meeting room up and running in minutes. After setup, IT teams can monitor room health, deploy updates, and modify settings through single, cloudbased Logitech Sync. And with Sync Insights, teams can assess how meeting spaces are used over time.

designed for efficiency and size. The new model is 15% more efficient when measuring the lumens-per-watt output than the current TITAN and better than the closest competitor, firmly putting down the TITAN’s green credentials alongside its already legendary status as a projection powerhouse. Add to this the extended 40,000 hours illumination lifetime in ECO mode and the dust-proof, filterless design, the TITAN is designed to run and run with minimal fuss in 24/7 environments. The extra power and capability have also been engineered into a much more compact chassis, meaning it is 27% brighter, 13.3% smaller, 7.4% lighter and 3dBA quieter than the current model. This regains the TITAN’s position as the smallest, lightest, brightest and quietest projector in its class. Not content with the physical design, a host of new features have been added to the video processing that are built to make installation and operation easier and more reliable. Features such as source redundancy offers peace of mind for those critical live events, while flexible geometry adjustment gives intuitive correction via PC tool or Remote Control.

Also new to the TITAN family is Brightness Sync, where embedded sensors monitor and automatically adjusts the brightness of individual projectors in blended multi-projector installs to ensure that each projected image is perfectly matched. A standout feature of this high-end 4K-UHD (3840x2160) 16:9 laser projector is the use of both red and blue lasers to produce an exceptionally broad colour gamut. ColorBoost+Red technology en-

ables the TITAN 41000-4K-UHD to produce crisp, clean, lifelike images, while the fast transit pixels ensure smooth grey scaling. Also benefitting for a major upgrade in capability is the M-Vision 27000 WU (1920x1200).

It embodies many of the same features as the TITAN but in a super-bright, budget-friendly 1-Chip DLP package. Outputting 27,000 ISO lumens, it is the brightest single-chip laser projector on the market and excels in environments with high ambient light. Following the design ethos of the TITAN, it too is 14.8% brighter and 9.2% lighter than its predecessor, with environmental considerations taken into account at every stage with a 23.8% light efficiency improvement over the previous M-Vision. Also key to its imaging quality, this laser-phosphor projector is charged with ColorBoost+Red laser technology to provide the most realistic and saturated colours at previously unreachable luminance levels, and a 10,000:1 dynamic contrast ratio delivers deep blacks. A complete suite of professional lenses now includes the brand new 0.38:1 UST lens with exceptional vertical lens shift, making it even more flexible for installations in tight spaces. Rounding out the capabilities of the M-Vision 27000 are features usually reserved for highend 3-Chip products, such as Source Redundancy, Brightness Sync and Auto White Balance Correction, making this is one of the most capable, flexible Single-Chip DLP projectors on the market today.

office spaces to create more collaboration areas for their hybrid workforce, huddle rooms have become more popular. According to research firm Futuresource, 68%* of companies plan to invest in AV technology for small meeting rooms and huddle spaces. “Huddle rooms are popping up faster than companies can video-enable them,” said Scott Wharton, general manager of Logitech B2B. “We designed Rally Bar Huddle from the ground up to have the optimal AI functionality for modern equitable meetings while coming in at a price point that is affordable for every single huddle

sion creates a natural meeting experience for remote employees. Ongoing software improvements make Rally Bar Huddle smarter through regular updates that add advanced features like RightSight 2. With RightSight 2, teams get access to AI features such as: Speaker View, which detects and shows the active speaker while also showing the entire room. Grid View gives each participant equal representation by detecting faces and zooming in on each person to give them their own frame; plus integrations with Zoom Rooms Smart Gallery, Microsoft IntelliFrame and others. Rally Bar Huddle can be de-

Organisations can customise Rally Bar Huddle for specialty settings or to best suit their decor. An off-white fabric cover provides an alternative to the default graphite, and the easyclean cover helps keep the video bar clean in healthcare and education environments. The paper packaging for Rally Bar Huddle comes from FSC-certified forests and other controlled sources. By choosing this product, you are supporting responsible management of the world’s forests. All Logitech products are certified carbon neutral and use renewable energy where possible in their manufacturing. The carbon footprint of all Logitech products, including Rally Bar Huddle have been reduced to zero by supporting forestry, renewables and climate-impacted communities. Rally Bar Huddle will be available globally in July 2023 through authorised sellers and logitech.com with a suggested retail price of $1699. RightSight 2 features will be available in Fall 2023.

Vision HDMI/USB Techconnect faceplate now shipping

Vision’s new Techconnect HDMI Faceplate Package, engineered to speed up and optimise HDMI display installations, is now shipping, the AV installation designer and manufacturer has announced. The new HDMI Faceplate Package includes a faceplate surround, which fixes to the UK standard backbox into which the two modules, one each for HDMI and USB 3.0, are fixed.

The three package variants come with 3m input cables and, 3m, 5m or 10m output cables – all Vision’s own premium grade. “We’ve reached a tipping point where AV installers have dumped VGA in favour of HDMI and USB but AV installers still have issues with long cable lengths and joins,” explains Stuart Lockhart, Director of Vision. “Most of these connection problems are caused by cheap input patch cables on faceplates. Us-

ing poor quality input cable is like connecting a garden hose to a firehose. To eliminate the problem, we have created a Package that ensures every link in the signal chain is optimised but is quick and easy to install,” Lockhart adds.

to future proof. Vision’s Techconnect HDMI Faceplate Packages are available now through Vision’s international network of distributors. Like all Vision products, it is backed by a Vision’s Lifetime Guarantee.

Vision’s new Techconnect HDMI Faceplate Package, engineered to speed up and optimise HDMI display installations, is now shipping, the AV installation designer and manufacturer has announced.

The module are designed to last a lifetime, thanks to extra ribbing to prevent the plastic from becoming brittle with time. Modules can also be swapped out at any time should an alternative connector be required by a change of display or source

Designed to deliver equitable video conferencing meetings with ease, Rally Bar Huddle is quick to set up, simple to manage, and easy to integrate with Tap IP through CollabOS.

Achieving visual merchandising freedom in retail

In today's fast-paced retail landscape, businesses are constantly seeking new ways to attract customer attention and drive engagement with customers. As a result, retail environments are changing more frequently than ever before due to the need to adapt to evolving customer demands and market trends.

Larry Zoll, Head of Global Strategy at LED Studio, explores the rise in mobile digital signage and how LED technology is giving retailers visual merchandising freedom.

We are currently seeing a rise in flexible, semi-permanent and mobile digital signage solutions driven by an increase in demand due to the incredible return on investment (ROI) they offer, amongst other perks. By combining the power of dynamic content, data analytics and personalised experiences, flexible digital signage placement presents a compelling solution for retailers seeking to stand out from the crowd in an increasingly perplexing market.

So what exactly is it that makes these displays that much more engaging than your average statically placed LED display, video wall or flat panel and why are retail architects and designers exploring mobile solutions more and more?

Weighing just 35kg without its attachable wheels, V-Poster by LED Studio does just that as it can easily be relocated or incorporated into a store layout using any or its three install methods, fully mobile, wall or hanging and be setup and relocated by a single person in seconds. It can be positioned anywhere as a single display, or multiple displays can be daisy-chained together to create a large free-standing digital wall using its cascade mode. Its unique aspect ratio makes it an ideal solution to be used at the end of shopping isles, blended into product shelving or hung between clothing rails without overwhelming shoppers.

This means that LED installations can be adjusted to various campaigns and creative ideas, including flagship creative installations, offering the opportunity to give retail customers a new experience each time they enter the store and give store designers ultimate flexibility with non-fixed location digital signage assets.

Interactive features can also be incorporated into these flexible signage solutions, thereby transforming naturally unengaged, passive viewers into active participants. With an infrared frame, the V-Poster can also be used as a touch screen, with up to 16 touch points of simultaneous interactivity. This opens an array of opportunities to engage, entertain and connect with audiences through creating an interactive shopping journey, ultimately increasing brand recall and further enhancing customer engagement and loyalty.

With the increase of AI, digital signage in retail environments now also has the potential to further improve the ROI through audience analytics, dynamic content personalisation, predictive maintenance and automated content creation, taking real-time messaging that one step further.

By analysing real-time footfall patterns that are backed up by real data-driven results, retailers can identify peak shopping hours, popular in-store shopping locations and can then adjust the placement of the displays as well as the type of promotions that are featured to help maximise sales. With traditional static signage however, it can prove very challenging to determine the impact of sales and customer engagement and valuable opportunities are often missed.

By investing in a durable display for your retail environment, you’re not only investing in the technology, but it is also an investment in the future success of your retail business. The V-Poster has been built with this in mind, and has been built to last.

The display features the Glue On Board (GOB) manufacturing method, increasing robustness and prolonging the life of the LED. This finish uses a patented epoxy resin to encapsulate the PCB and pixel packages, and greatly increases the durability and reliability of the display by enhancing the protection around each pixel. It makes the display impact-resistant, dustproof, waterproof, and IP-rated up to IP65, ideal for heavy footfall areas, and offering a sense of security for retail business owners.

From a sustainability perspective, LED is also a preferable alternative and long-term investment in comparison to predominantly used mobile LCD displays. LCD is often replaced rather than repaired upon failure, leaving displays destined for landfills. However, any damaged LEDs can be fixed or replaced - as the whole screen does not need replacing.

LED displays generally boast a much cheaper running cost in comparison to LCD displays, meaning that the life expectancy classifies as a far more cost-efficient alternative. Generally speaking, the maximum lifespan of an LCD is two to three years, compared to 11 years with LED displays. This would mean end users would be required to replace their LCD four to five times in the entire life span of a single LED display.

Flexible digital signage solutions like the V-Poster are a worthwhile investment for retailers looking to thrive in the ever evolving retail landscape, as it opens up new opportunities for creative, sustainable and immersive installations that engage with customers on a deeper level, helping leave lasting impressions that translate into increased brand loyalty and revenue.

Multiple V-Posters can be simply configured edge to edge or in seamless arrays utilising the hinged bezels.

Larry Zoll, Head of Global Strategy at LED Studio,

Education

Royal College of Art embraces true hybrid teaching

Like thousands of others, adapting to online and hybrid teaching during the pandemic, the Royal College of Art (RCA) required a rapid and effective response. Fortunately, the RCA’s reactive approach and experience with the Zoom platform enabled its 2300+ students to continue to learn and develop remotely in ‘no time’, ensuring they would also still benefit from the college’s impressive alumni network. What began as a project to minimize lesson disruption, by video enabling essential physical learning spaces and expanding the use of Zoom, soon evolved as students and teachers adapted to the new hybrid world. Not only did RCA need to provide easy to use and intuitive room set-ups, but they also needed solutions that could be versatile for the diverse user needs within the college. Alex Watt, IT Services Manager at the Royal College of Art. explains that the RCA is “an ever-moving environment; meeting rooms become teaching spaces, which become open plan office spaces, which become studio spaces on a six-monthly basis. With every new term there is a new wall taken up or put down, so one of the keys was that it was a flexible system that could be quite easily moved if it needed to be.”

Following the successful trial of 1, which progressed to 10 devices, Strive AV and DTEN supported the RCA with a complete roll out of over 120+ Zoom-enabled spaces. These include DTEN D7 All-in-one video conferencing and collaboration devices, mounted on mobile carts to deliver true flexibility. Watt continues “Whether it's testament to the hardware in the device, or the integration with Zoom, they're very forgiving on a wireless connection. That actually makes the DTEN D7s incredibly useful as they can be pretty much rolled into any space where we've got a half-decent Wi-Fi connection and they just work, and they can also be used in a more creative way.”

Since the DTEN deployment, the Royal College of Art has seen many benefits. It’s been able to provide its academics with a flexible teaching solution where they can learn in person and remotely. Ahead of

What began as a project to minimize lesson disruption, by video enabling essential physical learning spaces and expanding the use of Zoom, soon evolved as students and teachers adapted to the new hybrid world.

the pandemic this hybrid approach wasn’t an option which means they have now attracted a more geographically dispersed The legacy fixed solutions - such as projectors and screens in a traditional education environment - have been replaced to support modern teaching methods. Where there is flexible seating throughout the campuses, there is now flexible technology too which allows technology to be utilised more effectively.

The RCA also managed to save resources on device management.

James King, Head of IT at Royal College of Art explains: “The re-

Retail Fortnum & Mason food and drink studio

The RCA is “an ever-moving environment; meeting rooms become teaching spaces, which become open plan office spaces, which become studio spaces on a six-monthly basis.”

sources we put into supporting the units has dropped dramatically as they are self-service; people are very happy to walk into a room, find one, log in and start their work. That has led to an increase in satisfaction across our user base.” Overall, the Royal College of Art has achieved its aims of a flexible, user-friendly solution that will not only ensure students have the best possible learning experience but that will add value to its teaching environmen

KLANG and DiGiCo enhance Santiano's anniversary tour

Fortnum’s new facility will play host to live cooking demonstrations and workshops led by established chefs and emerging talent ATG Danmon reports the completion of a video production facility for the 181 Piccadilly headquarters of Fortnum & Mason, one of Britain’s longest established retail stores. The new system includes a Food and Drink Studio plus a dedicated control room. Created as a multipurpose resource on the store’s third floor, the studio incorporates a kitchen with remotely controlled cameras and adjustable lighting. The new facility is designed to be a creative hub for anyone with an interest in food and drink innovation. It will play host to over 100 Fortnum chefs as a production kitchen to create, taste and master recipes, supplying the Piccadilly store with Fortnum classics such as Scotch Eggs and Beef Wellingtons.

“Covid gave us the time to really think about the direction we want to take with the space,” comments Tom Athron, Fortnum & Mason’s chief executive. “Our whole strategy for a while

now has been to become more relevant to more people more often. The purpose-built Food and Drink Studio is dedicated to experimenting and learning, crafting and producing; where beginners can meet masters and the craft of food and drink is celebrated. It will play host to live cooking demonstrations and workshops led by established chefs and emerging talent.”

“We were invited to advise on the project after being recommended by one of our customers,” says Jonathan Hughes, ATG Danmon managing director. “The challenge was to integrate a versatile but unobtrusive production system into an area that could also be used for audience-participation events. The entire system would output to the store’s existing audio network which in turn would be expanded to accommodate video feeds to wall-mounted display screens in various parts of the store.

“The solution we designed and integrated includes overhead 4K-UHD HDR cameras with lownoise motorised remote pan/tilt/ zoom/focus control. These have

proved very effective and operationally efficient in many recent ATG Danmon systems integration projects, notably in newsrooms and theatre venues.

“One of the cameras in the Food and Drink Studio is located immediately above the main demonstration area to capture close-ups of food preparation.

The kitchen area includes an oven with a built-in camera which contributes live video closeups of food being cooked.”

The results have proved very eye-friendly both from a video production viewpoint and as experienced by Fortnum & Mason’s customers visiting the suite. The Food and Drink Studio will see a program of bookable events starting this summer, hosted by domestic and international gastronomic talent. It looks set to become a key element of the store’s customer experience and promotional activity, both in-store and potentially globally.

Santiano, a quintet from Germany, creates a captivating fusion of sea shanties, European folk, schlager, and modern pop music with a distinctively rustic feel. This year, the band celebrates their 10th anniversary with the release of a new album ‘Die Sehnsucht ist mein Steuermann - The Best of 10 Years’ embarked on an extensive anniversary tour in 2023. The band’s monitor, Ravi Rai, has opted for KLANG’s immersive in-ear monitor mixing solution, for which he is using a DMI-KLANG cardequipped DiGiCo Quantum 338 digital mixing console provided by rental company. As an experienced sound and monitor engineer of nearly 30 years, Ravi has worked with Santiano for 11 years and recalls the challenges faced when transitioning the band from wedges

ly gone now. By using KLANG, the band has more freedom, and everyone is happy with this change. During rehearsals, I give them control of the system via the KLANG: kontroller, allowing all band members to play around with it on their own. On the road, I simply add it in. On one occasion, the guitar player was using KLANG during the rehearsal and was making changes in the system while I was simultaneously fine-tuning my own settings, resulting in a seamless and effortless process for everyone involved.”

Previously a user of the KLANG:fabrik, Ravi has since become a big fan of the DMI-KLANG immersive in-ear monitoring system. With its unrivalled mixing capability, it has become the perfect companion for his work.

“The native integration of the

use it whenever I need it. It’s a straightforward and efficient system that simplifies my work.”

After using the Quantum 338 for the past 18 months, Ravi is thoroughly pleased with its performance. He remarks, “When the Quantum 338 was released during the pandemic, I immediately knew that I needed it! It's a compact and user-friendly console that comes equipped with DMI card slots, and it runs seamlessly.”

From the entire spectrum of features the Quantum 338 offers, Ravi is particularly fond of the multi-function control knobs, which he has grown accustomed to as a monitor engineer. He has also come to rely heavily on the console’s Snapshot functionality. “The Quantum 338 makes it easy for me to adjust settings on the fly while the show

to an in-ear monitoring system.

“Being a mature band, Santiano are accustomed to old-school rock 'n' roll stages with wedges everywhere, and where they would typically go to the guitar guy to hear what he is playing,” says Ravi. “This is complete-

DMI-KLANG with the Quantum 338 allows me to perform all functions within the desk, eliminating the need for outboard, external cabling or additional hardware, which is a significant advantage for him,” Ravi adds.

“I just take my DMI card and

is running. I like the Macro setups, which allow me to perform multiple actions at once. Nodal processing is also a significant advancement for me as a monitor sound engineer,” he says.

Continued on page 17

KLANG and DiGiCo enhance Santiano's anniversary tour

For many musicians, having KLANG during rehearsal is highly beneficial as it reduces sonic conflicts and provides clarity and control over volume levels, helping them to recognize the nuances of dynamics better and makes it easier to hear the difference in a wide dynamic range.

On that note, Ravi has an anecdote to share about working with the famous German rapper Kontra K. “I used my DMI-KLANG card equipped Quantum 338 during rehearsal, but I didn't let anyone know. After we started playing, Kontra K said how awesome it sounded after just one song! I kept it a secret until three

Entertainment

days later when I finally told them I was using KLANG. They could all hear the difference but didn't know why. And they were blown away by how fast it was to set up,” he shares.

While his positive experiences with KLANG make it a must-have tool for his productions, Ravi admits that he still finds some occasional hesitancy among artists and bands to incorporate the technology, often due to the limited rehearsal time. However, his experience proves that KLANG can be incorporated easily and quickly – essentially saving rather than costing time.

“The KLANG system noticeably

improves sound quality, allowing for greater precision and control that leads to more dynamic performances,” he concludes. “As someone who has experienced the advantages first-hand, I strongly encourage everyone to give it a try, as the benefits are evident right from the first song.”

INSERT PIC with caption: Santiano, a quintet from Germany, creates a captivating fusion of sea shanties, European folk, schlager, and modern pop music with a distinctively rustic feel. This year, the band celebrates their 10th anniversary with the release of a new album.

Mixbus uses Studer Vista X for Eurovision

The final of the 2023 Eurovision Song Contest attracted a worldwide television audience of over 160 million people. Throughout the week-long extravaganza, music for all of the televised live shows and rehearsals was mixed on the Mixbus, a music and audio outside broadcast facility that now incorporates an Evertz Studer Vista X console. Owned by BAFTA winner Conrad Fletcher’s SounDesign company, the Mixbus was chosen for Eurovision because it is kitted out with a plethora of high-end equipment, including a Studer Vista X console that has the ability to handle complex and technically challenging live music shows.

A long time Studer user, Fletcher ordered his new console just three months before the event as a replacement for his old Studer Vista 8 console. “The Vista 8 had always done a sterling job, but I’d been wanting to upgrade to a Vista X for some time in order to carry my business forward for the next 10 years,” he explains. “Winning the Eurovision project vindicated my decision to invest. The type of projects we do, especially live to cinema that makes up 50% of our workload, are complex and I honestly believe Studer is the only console manufacturer that can handle them. Nothing else comes close.”

test. “Our build team was aware that this console was destined for Eurovision, so they knew delivery wasn’t a moveable date,” says Mark Hosking, Director of International Sales, Studer-Evertz Audio Solutions. “It went flawlessly,” Fletcher adds.

“BAFTA winner Andy Tapley, Sound Supervisor and Sound & Technology Manager at BBC Studioworks was calling me every day to check on progress because he knew he’d be mixing the contest on it. We were all very relieved when it arrived on schedule and was installed on the truck.”

Cooperation between Fletcher and Evertz, which had recently moved all Studer manufacturing to its factory in Canada, was key to ensuring the console was built and installed in time for the con-

Fletcher’s Vista X has 52 faders and a control surface that weights 150 kilos. It is also 7cm higher than his old Vista 8, which meant the back end of The Mixbus had to be rebuilt to raise the speakers and video monitors above the meter bridge. Like its predecessor, the console retains Studer’s patented Vistonics user interface and added FaderGlow, along with a new Infinity Core, that provides control of 1,000 or more audio DSP channels with superb sonic quality and more than 5,000 inputs and outputs. To ensure system redundancy that is so vital for live events, Vista X has four processor Quad Star technology and CPU-based DSP that allows two completely independent DSP cores to run in parallel with 'instant' change over.

“While it is operationally very similar to the Vista 8, this new desk has some clear advantages,” Fletcher explains. “I really

like FaderGlow because each audio fader type can be associated with a chosen colour, plus it has assignable channel meters with a history function so you can instantly see which microphone is faulty, even in a show with hundreds of them; or spot problems with assignments, which is invaluable in a live situation. This gives you an instant overview of the console’s status.” Fletcher adds that the console’s configuration system is also much quicker to work because it runs natively on modern x86 CPU processors that are found across Evertz live media production product lines. It also has exceptional system reliability with four independent processors providing the necessary backup for shows as complex as Eurovision.

Organised by the European Broadcasting Union (EBU), Eurovision is usually hosted by the previous year’s winning country, which in 2022 was Ukraine with the song Stephania by the Kalush Orchestra. But, because of Russia’s invasion of their country, Ukraine was unable to hold this year’s contest, so instead – for the first time in 25 years – it took place in the UK at the M&S Bank Arena in Liverpool, where it was hosted by the British Broadcasting Corporation (BBC) on behalf of the Public Broadcasting Company of Ukraine. Costing more than £16 million to stage, Eurovision 2023 involved 37 participating countries and nine television shows including two live semi-finals and a live final, which was ultimately won by Sweden’s Loreen with the song Tattoo. Throughout Eurovision week, the Mixbus team were responsible for mixing 45 songs live to air, including guest artists such as Sam Ryder, Rita Ora and Rebecca Ferguson, and contestants. Once the stereo mixes were completed, they were handed over to another BAFTA winner, Sound Supervisor Richard Sillito, who added presentation and audience on board NEP’s UHD1 scanner. He also provided the 5.1 surround mix. Graham Norton’s presentation was added separately, and an international feed was provided to each country so that they could add their own commentary. “Considering the complexity of the final show - and indeed

Education Kramer has announced that its range of future proof solutions have been selected and installed inside over 40 teaching and learning spaces at the University of Insubria – one of Italy’s leading universities – to deliver seamless hybrid teaching and learning experiences across all three campuses. With primary locations in Como and Varese, Italy, the University of Insubria is home to over 12,000 students, 400 faculty members, and 320 technical and administrative staff across seven departments. After receiving funding from the Lombardy Regional Council, the university teamed up with leading AV/ ICT solution specialist,

University of Insubria turns to Kramer AV to bridge the hybrid gap

tal HDBT. Delivering seamless control of all technologies, and harmonised communications to those studying remotely, the heart of the system included the installation of the Kramer VS-62DT 6x8 matrix switcher, which was implemented in all classrooms. The VS-62DT provides 6 HDMI inputs that can be routed to HDMI or HDBaseT outputs, providing long-reach video (up to 4K@60Hz) and audio transmissions, for a best in class, more engaging experience. Another specificity is HDBaseT transmission for all the projectors, which saw the installation of Kramer TP-583T and TP-583R 4K HDR transmitters.

burden on the teacher. We connected all equipment with their respective management systems to dedicated VLANs, then built a centralized server where we inputted Kramer solutions for programming the matrices and keypads, so that everything now works exactly as it was supposed to, and I can control everything from one place.”

Andrea Fincato, AVC Project Manager, Adicom Group added: “The goal was to give teachers the opportunity, respecting their different ways of working, to use all devices: room camera, desktop camera, laptop camera. In short, everything needed to provide an AV system that fits their

Adicom Group and Kramer, to create new and enhanced, fully integrated teaching experiences across all three campuses, to support students both in class and at home.

With locations scattered throughout the Insubria area (between Milan and Switzerland), the university has always relied on audio-video communication tools. Previously, meetings and distance learning could be handled with systems such as Polycom but with the arrival of a large number of users due to the pandemic, this went from 12 simultaneous connections to 250 or more, such systems no longer held up. To solve this problem, and to future-proof against any future eventualities, Kramer was selected for the Insubria learning spaces retrofit, impacting 25 classrooms, 5 lecture halls, and 10 mobile studios (used for recording lectures).

Citing value for money among crucial factors in the decision to go with Kramer, the university’s existing analogue system was replaced in its entirety, including the wiring to support digi-

all the live shows and rehearsals - it is testament to a great team effort that everything went so smoothly,” says Andy Tapley. “The Vista X was absolutely the right choice for this event. Its ability to completely reconfigure every parameter on the fly at a touch of button meant it was the perfect choice. It is simply the best console for entertainment

And in some classrooms, where there were multiple projectors, HDMI output was used so that it could be rebroadcast. Two Kramer VM-2DT and four Kramer VM-4HDT 4K@60Hz HDB long reach extenders were chosen, with dedicated HDBT lines addressed to the projectors.

Kramer RC-208 eight-button compact control keypads were selected to provide maximum simplicity, so that teachers interface with an identical and recognizable control dashboard, combined with a consistent user experience, whatever room they’re in. Luca Mondini, Front and Back Office Service and User Support at the University of Insubria commented: “Our critical points were the lack of integration between new technologies and existing platforms. For example, Teams made it difficult for remote learners to interact transparently. It was difficult for the teacher and students to hear each other mutually and intelligibly. But as importantly, to ensure adoption, ease of use was key, so, as Luca puts it, “the technology wouldn’t become a

and music mixing.”

Conrad Fletcher adds: “We are told that the EBU was extremely happy with the quality of the output from the Mixbus, and this is both gratifying and a relief. Some colleagues questioned the wisdom of putting a new desk in just before one of the biggest shows we have ever undertaken.

All I can say is the Evertz Studer

habits so that they can teach hybrid classes.”

In addition, the new AV equipment supports the university’s desire to return students to campus. “At the moment, we’re experiencing a turnaround; 99% in-person and 1% remote, though students still want the ability to follow classes remotely,” says Luca. “One of the main advantages of being properly hybrid-equipped is that the university has not had to suffer declines in the number of enrolments, or increased dropouts, due to students’ inability to continue studying remotely. Instead, we’re now able to ensure that lessons are always delivered with the same degree of involvement, regardless of where the students are.”

Overall, the university is extremely pleased with the value for money and the reliable, robust performance delivered by its Kramer AV solution. Over the next five years it plans to continue its goal of 100% coverage, finishing the new auditorium and upgrading an additional 10 classrooms per year.

Vista X console gave us complete and total reliability, from first delivery to completion of a four-hour epic broadcast, and everything in between.”

Throughout Eurovision week, the Mixbus team were responsible for mixing 45 songs live to air, including guest artists such as Sam Ryder, Rita Ora and Rebecca Ferguson, and contestants

Microflex: the past, present and future of meeting room audio.

using table microphones, arranging and mounting multiple mics to guarantee optimal coverage was a time-consuming and labour-intensive process, especially in rooms with flexible seating layouts. Our idea was to apply array microphone technology – which Shure had been experimenting with for many years – to ceiling, table, and wall microphones that would make it easy to get optimal coverage in any type of meeting room.

In the latest instalment of our ‘Talking Heads’ series, AV News talks to Doug Daube (Category Director for Microphone Systems) and Evan Groom (Product Manager) at global audio manufacturer Shure Incorporated. With deep involvement in Shure’s celebrated Microflex Ecosystem of conferencing products, we wanted to learn more about the past, present, and future of meeting room audio.

AV News: What was the initial reaction?

Shure: The MXA310 and MXA910 were introduced at the InfoComm US show in 2016. We demonstrated the mics in the booth on the show floor – not in a separate demo room. People thought it was almost too good to be true. Even with all the noise, you could hear what someone was saying from 10 feet away which people thought was amazing. System integrators immediately started telling us about upcoming jobs where they wanted to use both mics. The biggest questions were “how many can I get?” and “when can I get them?”

That’s when we knew we had a winner.

AV News: What did you do for an encore? What kind of improvements did you make?

Shure: The MXA310 and MXA910 included Steerable Coverage technology, automatic mixing, and parametric EQ at introduction. But we wanted to go further and provide a set of components that would work in all kinds of situations.

In 2019, we added single-channel acoustic echo cancellation, electronic noise reduction, automatic gain control, a compressor, and a delay to the MXA910. Even better, these features could be added to existing MXA910’s just by updating the firmware. With that feature set it worked very well in most rooms and saved customers the expense of an outboard echo canceller.

But in larger rooms or those with more difficult acoustics, a sin-

gle-channel echo canceller wasn’t always enough. So, we also introduced the IntelliMix P300 Audio Conferencing Processor, which had eight channels of echo cancellation and noise reduction on each individual mic input channel and even more input and output options. This provided even better audio performance in challenging rooms and allowed the use of multiple MXA910s in larger spaces.

AV News: Room architecture is constantly changing; did that affect the demand for Microflex Advance?

Shure: Lots of rooms still had drop ceilings, but we were seeing more and more rooms where the ceiling was a true design element. Some rooms had a sculptural decorative ceiling, while others had no ceiling at all. In some cases, the MXA910’s square form factor didn’t really match the design aesthetic of the room.

In 2020, we added the MXA710 Linear Array which offered several new placement options. It could be mounted on the wall next to a video monitor; it could even be recessed into the table or mounted on a stand on a credenza. When suspended from the ceiling, it blended in with almost any functional or artistic structure. With a slim and sleek appearance and a choice of two-foot or four-foot lengths and three colours, the MXA710 fit perfectly in rooms with a more contemporary interior design.

AV News: Up until that point, the Microflex Ecosystem focused on microphones and DSP. What was behind the decision to expand beyond that?

Shure: We wanted to be able to offer a complete audio ecosystem, from the microphone to DSP to controls to the loudspeaker so that each component was perfectly matched to the others. So also, in 2020, we launched the MXN5C Network Loudspeaker and the MXAMUTE Network Mute Switch. The MXN5C loudspeaker provides high-quality speech reproduction for AV conferencing applications but uses a single network cable for audio, control, and PoE power. It simplifies signal routing and speeds installation in drop ceilings. The MXA-MUTE touch-sensitive mute button is an elegant solution to the problem of audio muting and status indication when the microphones are out of reach on the wall or ceiling. You can easily configure multiple switches in multiple ways using Designer software, again using just one network cable.

AV News: At that point, it seems like a good time to sit back and enjoy the success. Why didn’t you?

Shure: Two reasons. First, we’re constantly trying to deliver better sound quality. Second, system integrators are under constant pressure to get more done in less time. We wanted to simplify the process of setting up an array microphone as much as possible without losing any of its powerful capabilities. This became the MXA920 Ceiling Array Microphone.

We improved the array processing algorithm to maintain its directional performance even at lower frequencies, which are the most challenging for an array mic to deal with. With this next-generation

Microflex: the past, present and future of meeting room audio.

algorithm, the MXA920 sounds even more natural than the MXA910 but it almost never needs any EQ adjustment, even in rooms without great acoustics. It sounds fantastic right out of the box. We also developed Automatic Coverage technology that automatically directs audio capture wherever the talkers are. Out of the box, the MXA920 covers everyone within a 30 by 30-foot (9 by 9 metre) area. But you can define up to eight distinct coverage areas to suit the room shape or seating layout and the MXA920 will pick up anyone in those areas and deliver a pristine automix output. The MXA920 also delivers real-time talker localization data for every talker to facilitate advanced camera tracking. If your installation needs individual audio outputs and fixed pickup lobes for voice lift or sound reinforcement, you can select Steerable Coverage and it works exactly like an MXA910.

AV News: What’s the difference between the MXA902 and the MXA920?

Shure: In smaller rooms, the installation labour to install an MXA710 or MXA920 plus loudspeakers was not always cost-effective. All in one soundbars had the right price and simplicity, but not always great performance. We wanted to deliver high-tier performance in a package that makes sense for smaller rooms.

The MXA902 Integrated Conferencing Ceiling Array combines an array microphone, IntelliMix DSP, and a wide-dispersion loudspeaker all in one ceiling-mounted device. It automatically provides audio capture and reproduction for everyone within a 20 by 20-foot (6 by 6 meter) area. There’s only one device to mount and one network cable to plug in. The MXA902 is a complete audio solution for AV conferencing in small to medium-size meeting rooms.

AV News: What’s next for the Microflex Ecosystem?

Shure: We’re just getting started. We plan to keep raising the bar for audio quality while enabling system integrators to deliver great results in more rooms in less time for their clients. Large rooms

are always the most challenging, and we have some ideas on how to deliver even better results there. And we’re working with a wide assortment of partners to certify the Microflex Ecosystem for seamless integration with the most popular collaboration platforms, control systems, camera systems, and other components. We want to keep the Microflex Ecosystem the most powerful, capable, efficient way to deliver premium audio in a collaboration space.

AV applications of AI

Right now, the broadcast media is obsessing with the risks of Artificial Intelligence. Quoting the late physics genus Stephen Hawking.“The development of artificial intelligence could spell the end of the human race,” , with concern now exacerbated with knowledge of the personalities divining advances in the technology. According to recent debate on Talk Radio, even some of those briefing against AI are part of a global conspiracy to restrict access to AI development to a chosen few. “AI scares the hell out of me, says Elon Musk once. “It’s capable of vastly more than almost anyone knows, and the rate of improvement is exponential.” But before AI underpins the demise of mankind, there are surely some more practical applications in the AV world?

Lasting outcomes of the pandemic include the moves to hybrid and home working, with the corresponding shifts in emphasis to self sufficiency by users of essential work tools and skills. While ‘concierge’ services for users of video-conferencing solutions are now a thing of the past, self-sufficiency among users of such technologies was pretty much thrust upon users with very little time for proper programmes of user adoption. Gergely Vida, CEO of Lightware Visual Engineering Vida has identified a number of areas in which AI can play a positive role including:

Intelligent Automation: AI can automate various aspects of collaborative solutions, making them more user-friendly and efficient. For example, systems powered by AI can automatically set up and configure AV equipment based on user preferences, eliminating the need for manual adjustments. This automation saves time and simplifies the user experience.

Natural Language Processing (NLP): This enables voice recognition and voice control features in collaborative solutions. Users can interact with their AV system using voice commands, making it easier to control and operate devices during meetings. NLP can also facilitate real-time transcription and translation services, enabling seamless communication among participants who speak different languages, or does not understand a common language properly.

Intelligent Content Analysis: AI can analyse the AV content in real time, enabling features like automatic speech and facial recognition, or object detection. These capabilities can enhance collaboration by automatically generating meeting summaries, identifying speakers, tracking audience engagement, or even suggesting relevant content based on the ongoing discussion.

Personalisation and Adaptation: AI can learn and adapt to user preferences and behaviour over time. By analysing user interactions, the algorithms can personalise the experience. For instance, an AI system can learn an individual's preferred display layout, audio settings, or meeting room configurations, and automatically adjust them.

Intelligent Meeting Assistance: It can act as an intelligent assistant during meetings. AI can provide contextually relevant information, retrieve and display data, schedule follow-up actions, or offer suggestions based on the discussion. These virtual assistants, like chatbots, can answer queries, provide meeting reminders, or even automate routine tasks, allowing participants to focus on the collaboration itself.

The integration of AI technologies can streamline processes, reduce manual efforts, and provide personalised and intelligent features that ultimately lead to more efficient and engaging collaborative experiences. In addition, it could also serve as a marketing tool for tasks such as competitor analysis, market research, spell checking, translating, or copywriting. For example: “We, at Lightware find it beneficial to utilise AI for searching case studies that highlight our solutions and products.”

Enhancing the user experience.

Joel Chouinard, CPO at Utelogy believes that AI helps to capitalise on the collective expertise of an organization: “Companies have the autonomy to decide how to amass, consolidate, and visualize data from their collaborative spaces, employing AI to enhance the user experience. By applying machine learning (ML) and artificial intelligence (AI) algorithms to the collected data, we can unearth relationships, predict potential outcomes, aid automated decision-making, and answer pertinent business queries, among other possibilities.”

Chouinard further believes the rush to AI solutions is something of a natural progression: “While predictive modelling and statistical analysis aren't new, we've seen significant advancements in recent years in using machine learning to identify meaningful patterns and

insights within the gathered data. This data can be ingested from various sources, including data lakes or data warehouses. Overall, analytics offers critical insights, enabling users or third-party tools -

Software solutions, such as Utelogy, collect and deliver essential operational data from AV/UC systems and rooms to the cloud for analysis, and provide tools for users to enact change via intelligent, customizable, and automated actions. This gathered data can then be processed through AI or ML tools, offering deeper insights intoflow, enhance operational health and performance (like self-setuption. In essence, our solutions are designed to make collaborative

So what skills and knowledge does an AV integrator need in order to -

AI and Machine Learning: A strong understanding of AI and machine learning concepts is essential. This includes knowledge of different-

ics is crucial for working with the vast amount of data generated in the AV domain. This involves skills in data pre-processing, feature engineering, data visualization, and statistical analysis. Knowledge of -

Computer Vision: Given the visual nature of AV solutions, expertise in computer vision is vital. This includes skills in image and video processing, object detection and tracking, image recognition, andbraries like OpenCV and knowledge of convolutional neural networks

essary to build AI-based AV solutions. This includes programming skills in languages like Python, Java, or C++, as well as knowledgeing. Experience with frameworks and tools specific to the AV industry -

cluding its technologies, products, and industry trends, is crucial of course. This knowledge will help in identifying opportunities for AI -

Technical Support and Communication: Strong collaboration and

communication skills are essential for working effectively with multidisciplinary teams in the AV industry. Being able to communicate technical concepts clearly to both technical and non-technical stakeholders is crucial for successful implementation.

The field of AI is rapidly evolving, so staying up to date with the latest research, technologies, and industry developments through continuous learning and professional development is highly beneficial for implementing AI solutions in the AV market. “Lightware recognises the importance of these skills and is committed to developing them further in order to effectively leverage emerging technological advancements in the future,” explains Vida.

AI and digital signage

AI has the potential to be instrumental in evolving digital signage solutions and networks, particularly in the management of digital signage deployments and operations.

Content Optimization: AI can analyse data and user behaviour to optimise the content displayed on digital signage. By leveraging techniques such as computer vision and data analytics, AI algorithms can identify the demographics, interests, and preferences of the audience in real time. This information can be used to personalise content, select relevant ads, and improve the overall effectiveness of the digital signage.

Audience Analytics: AI-powered analytics can provide valuable insights into the audience's engagement with digital signage. Computer vision algorithms can track metrics like dwell time, attention span, and audience demographics. This data can help in understanding which content is most effective, identifying patterns, and making data-driven decisions to improve the signage's impact and ROI (Return on Investment).

Real-Time Updates and Dynamic Content: AI can enable real-time updates and dynamic content. By integrating AI algorithms with data sources such as social media feeds, weather information, or live event data, the signage can display up-to-date and contextually relevant content. This dynamic approach ensures that the displayed information remains fresh, engaging, and useful to the audience.

Automated Monitoring and Maintenance: AI can automate the monitoring and maintenance of these networks. By analysing sensor data and performance metrics, AI algorithms can detect anomalies, predict potential issues, and trigger automated maintenance or repair processes. This proactive approach reduces downtime, improves reliability, and minimizes the need for manual intervention.

Intelligent Scheduling and Targeting: Artificial intelligence has the capability to enhance the optimisation of content scheduling and targeting. By analysing historical data, user behaviour patterns, and contextual information, AI algorithms can determine the most effective times and locations for displaying specific content. This ensures that the right messages reach the right audience at the right time, increasing the impact and relevance of the campaigns.

Predictive Analytics: AI can leverage predictive analytics to anticipate audience behaviour and optimize content strategies accordingly. By analysing historical data and external factors, AI algorithms can generate insights and forecasts about audience preferences, trends, and engagement patterns. This information can be used to plan future campaigns, improve content creation, and drive better outcomes

AI can optimise content, enhance audience engagement, automate maintenance processes, and provide valuable insights for data-driven decision-making. By leveraging AI technologies, businesses can improve the effectiveness of the digital signage strategies. “Lightware considers it important to utilise these new technological advancements, and although we currently do not have a specific solution, we plan to place greater emphasis on this in the future,” promises Vida.

Future potential

So what of the future? Will a dependence on AI inevitably result in the end of mankind? Well perhaps, but in the meantime, we are likely to see some benefits before the machines take over. For example, AI also holds substantial potential for implementations within the smart building sector, particularly in the realm of building management. This becomes pertinent as we begin to explore the idea of creating tailored user experiences that extend beyond individual buildings, and into our homes, transportation, and communication systems. Companies today are leveraging the power of AI to revolutionize the way they gather, interpret, and present data from their collaborative spaces.

This is especially evident in context of Audio-Visual (AV) and Internet of Things (IoT) technologies, where AI has been instrumental in refining user experiences. The application of machine learning (ML) and artificial intelligence (AI) algorithms has opened up a world of possibilities, from discovering hidden relationships within

the data to predicting potential outcomes and facilitating automated decision-making.

Predictive modelling and statistical analysis are further examples of tools which are far from new. The adoption of both, has skyrocketed in recent years. Machine learning is now widely used to identify significant patterns within data collected from diverse sources, including data lakes and warehouses. The insights obtained through analytics are invaluable, enabling users or third-party tools to respond more efficiently, either manually or via automated processes, increasingly powered by AI.

Software tools

Chouinard says that the software tools essential for AI implementations are pretty much available. In this arena, “Utelogy, a software solution, stands out. Utelogy collects and delivers crucial operational data from AV/UC systems and rooms to the cloud for analysis. Furthermore, it equips users with tools to implement changes through intelligent, customizable and automated actions. These actions can range from smart notifications and task prioritization to automated scheduling and self-healing. The data Utelogy harnesses is available for processing by AI or ML tools, to provide deeper insights into predictive analytics and logical outcomes furthering Utelogy’s tools to proactively take the right action at the right time.”

“Utelogy uses actionable analytics to provide clear business insight, optimize workflows, improve operational health and performance, and reduce the necessity for costly human intervention. For instance, the self-setup or self-healing features allow systems to correct themselves automatically. In essence, Utelogy's mission is to make collaborative solutions more efficient and user-friendly by harnessing the power of AI.”

AI and associated risks

AI regulation has become a priority internationally and the suggestion has been made that some AI technologies could be banned. The problem is that there is currently no way of differentiating between ‘good AI’ and ‘bad AI’, with the further problem being that technologies which currently fall in the ‘good’ category might eventually turn out to be ‘bad’. Either way. Politicians and others charged with defining what is ;good’ and what is ‘bad’ are generally considered to have little or understanding or the issues or the technologies..

“The key then is deciding how to apply AI in an ethical manner. On a company level, there are many steps businesses can take when integrating AI into their operations. Organisations can develop processes for monitoring algorithms, compiling high-quality data and explaining the findings of AI algorithms. Leaders could even make AI a part of their company culture, establishing standards to determine acceptable AI technologies.” But what do you do when applying standards to society as a whole?

AI-powered job automation is a pressing concern as the technology is adopted in industries including marketing, manufacturing and healthcare. Eighty-five million jobs are expected to be lost to automation between 2020 and 2025. As AI robots become smarter and more dexterous, the same tasks will require fewer humans. And while it’s true that AI will create 97 million new jobs by 2025, many employees will not have the skills needed for these technical roles and could get left behind if companies do not upskill their workforces.

Photo by Markus Winkler on Unsplash

InfoComm 2023: what’s on show?

InfoComm is the largest professional audiovisual trade show in North America and second only to ISE on global sale. The 2023 edition of InfoComm will see introductions of thousands of products for audio, unified communications and collaboration, displays, video, control, digital signage, home automation, security, VR, and live events on show from the 14-16 June in the Orange County Convention Centre in Orlando, Florida. The scope of the event has been extended through a number of partnerships with vertical market specialist organisations.

Digital signage at InfoComm 2023

InfoComm 2023 will present a wide-ranging digital signage program, including in-depth workshops, the D=SIGN conference, show floor tours and networking mixer at Vū Orlando. “InfoComm is the premier trade show for the digital signage community,” said Rochelle Richardson, CEM, Senior Vice President of Expositions and Events, AVIXA, “On the show, you’ll learn from the top minds in the digital signage space, see solutions up close, and build professional connections to help you build a winning digital signage strategy.”

The Sixteen:Nine Digital Signage Networking Mixer, hosted by AVIXA, will bring together integrators, designers, content creators, and other members

vations, and big ideas around digital signage. The D=SIGN session ‘Is your legacy digital signage network ready for an upgrade?’ will explore various pain points for network operators and strategies to approach the inevitable reality of upgrading a dated system, how to navigate the process, and how to identify cost considerations for a reasonable solution. On 13 June join this discussion with Heather Best from Diversified, Filipe Ho from Google, Pamela Lobaton of Spectrio, and Lance Hutchinson from Alpha Video and Audio.

On Wednesday 14 June the D=SIGN session “Touchdown! Interactive branding across sports and stadiums” will explore how sports organizations

data from Invidis covering global trends and drivers and their impact on the North American digital signage market. He’ll also discuss how multi-channel retail, sustainability, AI, and the experience economy are shaping digital signage solutions.

Alan Brawn, CTS, and Jonathan Brawn, CTS, of Brawn Consulting will lead the full-day workshop “Digital Signage Certified Expert (DSCE),” on 11 June . This workshop takes a business-oriented approach that allows attendees to master the formulas for successfully planning a digital signage network, including design, hardware and software selection, deployment, content creation, and ROI/ ROO for digital signage rollouts.

Digital Signage on the show floor

The InfoComm 2023 trade show floor will feature a digital signage pavilion showcasing content creation and digital signage software, direct-view LED displays, projection technology, and much more. Join fellow AV education professionals to take digital signage-focused tours of the show floor from 10 to 11:30 a.m. Wednesday, 14 – 15 June tours will provide an overview of the equipment, technologies, and considerations critical to ensuring a successful digital signage strategy.

To register for InfoComm 2023, visit www.infocommshow.org.

Esports at InfoComm 2023

of the digital signage community on the evening of Tuesday, June 13. This special event takes place at the ultimate digital signage destination, V Orlando, which features a 155' x 26' immersive LED Volume, one of the largest permanent volumes in the United States.

The D=SIGN conference, produced in partnership with the Digital Signage Federation, takes place on 13-15 June will examine the solutions, inno-

use new visual technologies to transform the fan experience, amplify brand awareness, and cast a new spin on team history. The session features Peter Beck from Forty-Nine Degrees, Steve Bayer of Daktronics, Ryan Lenocker from the Dallas Cowboys Football Club, and Lee Summers from Creative Realities. Florian Rothberg of Invidis Consulting will host the Market Insights Lunch: Digital Signage. He will share exclusive market

They’ll also host the full-day workshop “Digital Content & Media Expert (DCME)” on 12 June. This workshop examines the impact and relevance of content, emphasizing the need to begin by clearly articulating the objectives. The workshop will review examples of the costs of content production, and various options for outsourcing.

InfoComm and AVI Systems are partnering to present InfoComm Esports Live, the show’s first live, collegiate esports venue on the trade show floor from 14-16 June. Attendees will experience esports in action all three days with a gaming stage featuring live match play competitions, esports expert presenters and tech at the coach’s stage, play-byplay, interviews, and podcasts from the Shoutcast desk, and a full production zone. “Nothing shows off the impact of our industry better than esports,” said Brad Sousa, Chief Technology Officer, AVI Systems. “Live front-of-house audio and media, broadcast and production technologies, advanced media over IP networking with a heavy dose

of competition and event production – that's the tech impact of esports.”

At InfoComm Esports Live (booth 4033), the gaming stage will have champion-level collegiate teams, including Faulkner University and Talladega College, battling it out in live three-on-three Rocket League matches using gaming stations from CORSAIR and Logitech. The space is outfitted with large format displays, multi-camera production, gaming displays, and headsets from Sony. Plus, there are gaming desks and chairs from Spectrum, lighting control and sound from Q-SYS, and a lightning-fast network by NETGEAR that makes everything run seamlessly for college students and staff. Attendees can

get an up-close look at the production zone, which features Newtek's live TV and media production suite, Sony camera controllers and monitors, Q-SYS show controller for audio processing and a NETGEAR wired network switch. This powerhouse solution allows live multicamera production with graphics, titles, and player backstories – the perfect way to build an online community of esports enthusiasts.

The Shoutcast stage is where the ‘play-by-play’ action coverage happens. Attendees will see how this adds to the human perspective of esports gaming and the multiple ways to integrate branding and sponsorships into

Esports at InfoComm 2023

the experience. The coach's stage will host keynote conversations with Caleb Colquitt, Head Coach for Faulkner University's esports team. Colquitt will discuss how the university launched its esports team as a Varsity Athletic Team and doubled their recruiting and admissions goals through esports. In addition, Brad Sousa, Chief Technology Officer of AVI Systems, will discuss how creating an online presence for esports teams connects colleges and universities to underserved students. Sousa will also talk about how esports creates competitive equality between D1 schools and private schools as well as closing the gender gap in collegiate sports. College technology experts from eFootprints will share the journey many colleges and universities are experiencing related to technology and how esports levels the competitive landscape. In addition, InfoComm attendees with an interest in esports competition can play on Friday, June 16 between 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. “We are ecstatic to partner with AVI Systems and leading manufacturers to present the exciting world of esports to the InfoComm audience,” said Rochelle Richardson, CEM, Senior Vice President of Expositions and Events, AVIXA: “InfoComm Esports Live allows attendees to join an integrated experience and learn from the experts behind the magic while on the InfoComm show floor. InfoComm 2023 has many more

opportunities for attendees to continue their learning journey focused on content, distribution, and streaming solutions.

On 14 June, an expert panel will teach attendees how to create a live venue AV set-up in “Intro to live streaming system design for performance Spaces.” Panellists include content creator Alesia Hendley; Paul Richards of PTZOptics; Rebecca Sullins of AmpThink; Jim Bask of Bradfield Distributing; and Rachael Harris of American Express. On 15 June 15, those attending

“How Esports can take universities to the next level” will learn which technology they need to create a flexible esports space, including content distribution tools, lighting, and control systems. The panel will also fea-

Lightware Visual Engineering

Lightware Visual Engineering will give the professional AV market its first glimpse of the new USB-C extension on booth 3261 at InfoComm. Its launch spearheads a significant presence at the show and visitors will be invited to explore the company’s diverse range of AV technologies. Whether installing a Cisco-powered room or a huddle space where meeting participants use various video conferencing platforms, such as Zoom or Teams, Lightware’s integration solutions can empower a room with simple and intuitive controls.

ture a case study on University of North Carolina Greensboro (UNCG), which opened an esports arena in 2022. Panellists are John Hulen of Crestron Electronics; Joshua Kell of Horizon AV; Larry Darling of UNCG Information Technology Services; and Kaylie Shaffer of Crestron Electronics.

InfoComm participants will also be able to join an Integrated Experience Tour of Full Sail University from 12:30 to 4:30 p.m. on 13 June. Attendees will get to explore two of the most unique venues in live and live-streaming events: Full Sail Live Venue and Full Sail University Orlando Health Fortress, the largest collegiate esports arena in the country.

Networking at InfoComm 2023

Sharing a screen or switching between hosts has never been easier thanks to the hassle-free integration of Lightware devices into a wide range of platforms. Lightware’s sphere of solutions with well-known industry leaders, such as Utelogy, Sennheiser, Poly and many more, is constantly expanding, and visitors can learn about the latest additions at this year’s exhibition. Lightware’s devices serve a wide range of vertical markets, from corporate environments to live events. This year, the company puts extra emphasis on its offerings and solutions for higher education installations. Beyond the products ideal for university campuses and classrooms, Lightware introduced a range of initiatives to better help AV users in this space achieve their goals,

through Lightware’s LEAD and GRANT programs. Roger Takacs, Lightware’s VP of Education, along with Lightware’s dedicated team of experts, will await visitors at InfoComm 2023 to share their insights and the details of these opportunities.

At Infocomm 2022, Lightware introduced the TPX Series, enabled by SDVoE technology.

The TPX Series provides pointto-point extension of HDMI 2.0 signals over a single CATx cable.This year, Lightware will take it one step further with the 10G TPN product family, which offers the same great benefits and features but instead of point-to-point extension, it allows HDMI 2.0 signal extension on a network environment.

As immersive technologies take centre stage in various applications, from XR studios to Esports and beyond, Light-

ware’s 2x10G AV-over-IP system, known as UBEX, is here to bring versatility into these operations.

During InfoComm 2023, Lightware will showcase this unique and unrivalled device, which offers uncompressed 4K60 4:4:4 signal management capabilities with real-time, pixel-accurate signal delivery. For 1G networks, Lightware’s VINX product family offers a tried-and-tested, comprehensive solution for applications ranging from digital signage to classrooms. InfoComm 2023 attendees will be able to see these technologies in action and learn more about the benefits Lightware’s solutions can bring to their AV operations. Lightware’s dedicated team of experts is looking forward to meeting you at Booth 3261, in the Orange County Convention Center at Orlando, Florida, between 14 - 16 June 2023.

Audio at InfoComm 2023

d&b HeadroomCalc makes InfoComm debut.

With a deep commitment to supporting sound engineers, system planners and consultants during each phase of their audio journey, d&b audiotechnik HeadroomCalc will make its InfoComm 2023 debut at booth #5561. Available in ArrayCalc V11, the patent pending HeadroomCalc technology now predicts the reaction of a d&b system to a specific audio signal,

room calculation than any other solution currently available.

Patent-pending HeadroomCalc is the latest update to ArrayCalc simulation software and will provide superior and more comprehensive predictability of system performance. It represents significant progress in predicting accurate system performance that will impact the planning and execution

the right system and/or system amplifier, both of which influence the budget needed for a project. It assists in complying with health and safety regulations at live events that specify the limits regarding onsite sound exposure levels. Pre-recorded alarm messages can be reproduced with a certain SPL to satisfy all venue or legal requirements.

providing a more precise sound pressure level (SPL) and head-

of future audio projects. It enables the customer to choose

Photo by Chris Montgomery on Unsplash

Continued from page 23

d&b HeadroomCalc makes InfoComm debut.

“HeadroomCalc uses audio files provided by the user, representing a real-world application that allows users to accurately account for specific signal response as well as DSP limiter-based nonlinear processing impacts,” states Marc Lopez, Vice President of Marketing, d&b audiotechnik Americas.

“Our customers will benefit from even more realistic simulation results, enabling them to create a system design that meets specification requirements at a new level.”

HeadroomCalc predicts the re-

action of a d&b system to specific audio signals, providing a more precise SPL calculation by processing any user-defined audio file through a simulation of the configured audio system. The input signal, often a pre-recorded alarm message or a recording of the band, is fed into the simulated loudspeaker processing of the selected d&b system amplifiers with intermediate results of output voltage and gain reduction signals for every amplifier channel within the system over time. The output voltages are combined with the

simulated impulse responses of the connected loudspeakers. This yields the sound pressure signals for every loudspeaker at up to five individual definable receiver points.

The total sound pressure signal is created for all receiver points, which is the sum of all sound pressure signals at each point. This is then used to derive the SPL metrics in the same manner a portable SPL meter would operate at each defined measurement point.

Yamaha showcases latest audio solutions and innovative technologies

CTS, Implementing AI Algorithms with Audi Video

Thursday June 15, 2023, 1:30 PM – 2:30 PM

LOCATION: W314AB

Jeremy Satchell, R&D Manager, Live Event Audio for Beginners

Thursday June 15, 2023, 11:00 AM – 12:00 PM

LOCATION: W312ABC

d&b to focus on Soundscape with Milan networking seminar

Yamaha announced its 2023 return to InfoComm the largest professional audiovisual trade show in North America. Yamaha Corporation of America and Yamaha Unified Communications will be displayed side-by-side, showcasing solutions designed to connect the world through sound & music. Whether amplifying a musical performance live on-stage, through installed solutions, or connecting people through conferencing; when it comes to sound, it just makes sense to trust a company that lives and breathes music.

Attendees can stop by and check out the latest audio solution lines and technologies, such as the Yamaha award-winning conference audio solution, ADECIA, the revolutionary VSP-2 Speech Privacy System, the newest compact digital mixing console, DM3, which launched at The NAMM Show to great review, RIVAGE PM Digital Mixing Systems, NEXO solutions, and more exciting announcements closer to the show! “The teams at Yamaha have taken advantage of the time over the past several years to work behind the scenes on new solutions and innovations that are purpose built for those that have turned a love

for music into a career amplifying music.” Says Preston Gray, Marketing Director, Professional Audio. “We are excited to share what we’ve been working on at InfoComm 23. Yamaha connects people with music in ways no manufacturer can, and what we plan to share this year ensures every transient and nuance is heard the way it was intended!”

“For the first time in five years, we’re proud to announce that Yamaha UC and Yamaha Pro Audio will be together again at InfoComm. We have many new technologies to showcase including our recently updated ADECIA audio solution, our VSP2 Speech Privacy system, and so much more. Our meticulous attention to detail in every aspect of product design and manufacturing, as well as our thorough testing and commitment to innovation will be clearly displayed in every one of our unique products on the show floor,” said Tatsuya Umeo, CEO of Yamaha Unified Communications. “This year I'm especially proud of the numerous educational sessions and presentations YUC has been chosen to lead in order to showcase what makes Yamaha the leader in audio.”.

Yamaha will hold five speaking engagements as below.

• [AVIXA seminar/Technology Innovation Stage program]

Timothy Mackie, MCSA, MCSE, CTS, Main Stage Panel on “Trend Forecasting: Learning Spaces”

Wednesday, 14 June from 4:00 PM – 4:45 PM

LOCATION: Booth #2260

Timothy Mackie, MCSA, MCSE, CTS, Deciphering the Technology Differences in Beamforming Microphone Solutions

Tuesday June 13, 2023, 10:00 AM – 10:30 AM

LOCATION: W311EF

Balasz Boldog, CTS, Resolving the Audio Challenges of the Open Meeting Space

Tuesday June 13, 2023, 3:00 PM – 3:30 PM

LOCATION: W311EF

Timothy Mackie, MCSA, MCSE,

The d&b audiotechnik demo room W230D will feature a Soundscape experience and will also host a Milan networking seminar using the d&b DS100 network driven and Dante-enabled DSP platform for Soundscape. With the requirement for engaging live experiences and distraction-free environments increasing, d&b Soundscape enables further connection between the stage and listeners, simplifying the workflow to deliver a more transformative experience. At the heart of the system is the Dante-enabled DS-100 Signal Engine, En-Scene and En-Space software modules, all in conjunction with planning and control software, ArrayCalc and R1 Remote.

At booth #5561, d&b will feature include SL-Series, A-Series, custom solutions, and an assortment of scalable systems. Representing SL-Series, the XSL system’s extra small dimensions bring the SL-Series feature set: broadband directivity control, extended low frequency performance, and power efficiency - to a huge range of installations and

events. The XSL is acoustically matched with its bigger siblings, GSL and KSL, and fits seamlessly into the d&b Workflow. The KSL-SUB will also be featured at the booth.

Also, at the d&b booth is the D40 amplifier, a mobile version of the company’s 40D amplifier for installed applications designed to drive high-voltage d&b loudspeakers while providing management and protection capabilities. The D40 amplifier is a four-channel class D power amplifier, designed for maximum efficiency when paired

with d&b loudspeaker systems. Realising all the adaptability of a point source cluster with the extensive control options of a d&b line array, the A-Series system comprises the AL60 and AL90 loudspeakers, with ALi60 and ALi90 cabinets designed specifically for permanent installation. Variable splay angles allow arrays of up to four A-Series loudspeakers to adapt precisely to venue shapes in fine increments. Broad distribution is achieved either horizontally or vertically deployed with a minimal number of loudspeakers.

On 15 June at 11am, d&b will host a seminar on Milan, then open standards-based audio networking solution. Milan is a deterministic network that inherits all the technical benefits of Audio Video Bridging (AVB) technology: improved reliability, optimum synchronization and hassle-free network set up.

Collaboration at InfoComm 2023

Microsoft and Cisco come together to advance the hybrid workplace

Microsoft and Cisco will join InfoComm 2023 to discuss advancing the hybrid workplace through the latest collaboration technology. This session adds to the wide-ranging program focused on conferencing and collaboration at InfoComm, which includes more than 40 education sessions, leading solution providers across the trade show floor featuring expert-led tours, and much more.

On 14 June, Chris Barwick, Vice President of Collaboration Strategy and GTM at Cisco, and Ilya Bukshteyn, Vice President of Microsoft Teams Calling and Devices at Microsoft, will discuss how their companies are advancing the hybrid workplace, from streamlining the in-person experience with hardware and software interoperability, to integrating AI-powered collaboration tools for intelligent videoconferencing and ensuring meeting equity for all participants. “Corporate offices have stepped into an era of bold, new hybrid possibilities,” says Annette

Sandler, Director, Live Content, U.S./Canada, AVIXA, producer of InfoComm. “Corporate employees transformed the way they worked during the pandemic by embracing collaboration technology solutions that enabled productivity and flexibility. Reverting to old work methods is not a successful strategy for a workforce that has evolved. This session led by Microsoft and Cisco and the extensive conferencing and collaboration program at InfoComm will help attendees envision the future of their workplaces, creating a pathway for growth and success.” The session “Real estate, human resources, and IT: The new stakeholders for collaboration technology” will examine how the increased focus on employee experience and retention has welcomed human resources as an equal partner in implementing workplace strategies. On 13June, join Daniel Root of Root of Collaboration, Kevin Case of A.Visual, and Heather Stonebraker of Dow Jones & Co. for a discussion on requirements, goals, and concerns from all three perspectives for implementing a successful hybrid work strategy.

On 14 June 14, the session “Building the multi-meeting app conference room” will dig into the missing pieces of conference room design and what employees truly need from these spaces. Attendees will learn about options for best enabling multi-app meeting spaces and how AV leaders can engineer high-quality user experiences, no matter the app. Speakers include Irwin Lazar of Metrigy, Malissa Dillman of Zoom, Mathew Slack from Microsoft, and Stephen Vobbe of Cisco.

Also on 14 June 14, “Creating flexible meeting and conferencing spaces” will take a deep dive into all aspects of developing multi-use office spaces. Attendees will discover all the possibilities available to them, from furniture design to AV technology, for designing flexible collaboration rooms. Speakers are Linda Gedemer of AlfaTech, John Bailey of AVI-SPL, Cathy Richards-Ingram of Avalara, and Dave Bryant of One Workplace. In addition, InfoComm will host two expert-led show floor tours focused on conferencing and

Avocor to focus on connected, collaborative meeting experiences

Avocor to focus on connected, collaborative meeting experiences

Avocor is set to exhibit at Infocomm 2023, focusing on connected, collaborative meeting experiences. Bringing its latest innovations to the show floor, visitors can get hands-on with Avocor solutions in the Conference and Collaboration Zone, booth 3671. Scott Hix, CEO at Avocor, comments: “InfoComm 2023 continues to be an exciting platform for Avocor to exhibit. Visitors to our booth can get hands-on with the latest Avocor solutions, including the L Series, our range of 21:9 wide aspect displays designed to overcome the challenges facing the hybrid workforce. We will also announce strategic global news, supported by our recently launched Avocor Alliances division.”

The recently formed Avocor Alliances division will drive strategic partnerships and alliances with industry leaders and innovators. Avocor collaborates with leading workspace solution providers, delivering comprehensive solutions that are productive, easy-to-use conference and collaboration technologies. Our newest Alliances partner that we will highlight at Infocomm is AUO Display Plus. A subsidiary of AUO Corporation, AUO Dis-

play Plus (ADP) is a smart display solution provider focusing on enterprise, education, healthcare, and mobility.

Due to the emergence of new technologies, hybrid work models, and the need for agile management, enterprises are accelerating digital transformation and changing their operation and management methods. AUO Display Plus leverages well-known parent AUO's decades of engineering, design, and manufacturing excellence to bring cutting-edge office and meeting room solutions to the adaptive workplace to enhance collaboration and maximize spatial efficiency. Visitors to the Avocor booth will be able to learn more about this new partnership and the unique benefits it will bring to Avocor customers and partners.

The stand-out product for workspace collaboration is the new L Series, Avocor's first foray into 21:9 aspect ratio displays. Ideal for organizations investing in

Microsoft Signature Teams Rooms, the L Series features stunning 5K image resolution utilizing superior PCAP glass technology and includes touch and non-touchscreen options. Designed to derive exceptional value from hybrid meetings, the L Series offers users a more spacious, immersive view than conventional dimension displays with an expanded horizontal workspace.

collaboration. From 2 to 3:30 p.m. 14 June 14 and 15 June, attendees can walk the floor to learn about the latest developments in collaboration tools, including ground-breaking products and innovative trends for

designing conferencing spaces.

Also, from 1:30 to 2:15 p.m. 15 June, there will be a trend forecasting presentation on the Technology Innovation Stage about the future of conferencing and collaboration. What will offices and

multi-use spaces look like in 5, 10, or 20 years? Join this presentation to find out.

Utelogy to showcase new technology, Partnerships, and 0latform innovations

Utelogy is gearing up to announce several significant new product features, partnerships, and enhancements, including Intel VPro integration for advanced support of Microsoft Teams Room Devices, Energy Saving and Sustainability initiatives, API updates with webhook support, ServiceNow integration, and more. These new offerings will showcase the company’s ongoing commitment to supporting the changing needs of AV and IT professionals for intuitive and cost-effective estate management solutions.

According to Kevin Morrison, CEO of Utelogy, “The rapid growth of Utelogy is fuelled by the growing demand by our customers to deliver a much-improved user experience and to deliver meeting equity for all employees that are using video and collaboration technology. We continue to deliver enhancements to the platform that addresses the current market needs and have also added new features that delivers significant energy savings and helps with global sustainability initiatives. We are excited to showcase our latest platform innovations at InfoComm 2023, which will empower organizations to harness the full potential of its connected AV estate.”

Utelogy’s ongoing technology innovation is driven by its mission to provide cost-saving solutions that elevate user experienc-

es through insights and analytics. The company’s Utelligence Program for industry standards around security and agnosticity, will continue to be a focal point of the exhibit. Additionally, the “Utelogy beyond the conference room” initiative will be showcased, highlighting the platform’s ability to integrate with other elements of the workplace, such as booking systems for deeper analytics, IoT, and BYOD, to support the ever-growing hybrid workforce.

Frank Pellkofer, President of Utelogy, said, “The global workspace is evolving rapidly, presenting both challenges and significant growth opportunities. We are excited to showcase how Utelogy's Platform can turn outdated support methodology from reactive to proactive, resonating with companies that are more geographically dispersed than ever and is also focused on providing unparalleled value and increasing the employee experience.”

Utelogy will also highlight key products and feature enhancements including: Microsoft Teams Rooms (MTR) Enhancements: Utelogy will enhance its MTR management offering for effectively and proactively

monitoring and managing MTR environments for both software and hardware endpoints. New features will include call quality metrics, remote management and updating of USB peripherals, real-time Teams data, and remote support via screen sharing.

•Power Savings and Sustainability: The Utelogy Platform will make it easier for stakeholders to understand power consumption, savings, and usage right from the Utelogy dashboard. Utelogy is also adding feature functionality to support more devices such as Intel-based MTR utilizing the Intel Vpro Chip.

•ServiceNow Integration and API Enhancements: Upcoming features of the Utelogy Platform include native ServiceNow (SNOW) support and webhook integration which will make it easier for service providers and customers to work with Utelogy’s APIs and derive the information most valuable

Utelogy to showcase new technology, Partnerships, and 0latform innovations

to them and their workflows.

•Data Transformation: Utelogy’s goal is to transform the way its customers visualize and present their system data for a more fluid, richer, and improved user experience. The company will introduce new features such as a federated architecture built for performance, enhanced data analytics reporting tools, configuration management database (CMDB), and health rollup. Utelogy is well-equipped to support customers regardless of country or region, with significant areas of growth ranging from its home base in the United

States to key international markets across Europe, Africa, the Middle East, and Asia Pacific. The company’s open architecture, hardware, and software-agnostic platform allows for greater compatibility and integration between AV/UC and IoT devices from many manufacturers, making it the ideal platform for organizations of any size.

“We are committed to providing unparalleled value to our customers by delivering comprehensive solutions that combine AV devices, software, and exceptional proactive customer support. We are excited to

Displays at InfoComm 2923

Brand new Philips dvLED line-up

continue to drive the industry forward with our agnostic and scalable platform, and partnerships with industry-leading manufacturers such as Barco, Bose, Catchbox, Cisco, GUDE Systems, Intel, Jabra, Lightware Visual Engineering, Logitech, LG, Netgear, Poly, Sennheiser, Sony, Yealink and others. We look forward to meeting with attendees and sharing our vision for the future of the connected workspace,” added Pellkofer. You can visit Utelogy at booth 2969 in Zone B.

Integration at InfoComm 2023

Supporting all major market verticals – including retail, education, corporate, food and beverage, and government –PPDS to showcase a full suite of high impact, low energy Philips dvLED displays and digital signage solutions at InfoComm in Orlando on Philips Booth 929. PPDS confirms its attendance at InfoComm, June 14-16, with the launch of a brand new line of Ultra HD, ultra-low energy Philips dvLED displays and a TAA compliant command centre all planned for its Open2 themed booth in Orlando. This year’s InfoComm marks the celebration of the first and highly successful anniversary of PPDS US becoming a wholly-owned subsidiary of TPV, fully aligning the business with PPDS’ other global operations. Part of an accelerated growth phase, the transformation has taken the US business to the next level, delivering enhanced value and an extensive, and unrivalled suite of advanced solutions, supporting an extend-

government use (Philips X-Line, Philips D-Line), demonstrating the benefits for a variety of environments, including for control rooms.

The Philips booth will also include a range of Philips monitors, as well as a number of solutions and representatives from PPDS’ valued third party partners, including Extron, Logitech, 22Miles, Navori Labs, Novisign, Skykit, Peerless-AV, and Vogel’s. Nick Begleries, Commercial Vice President, North America, at PPDS commented:

“We’re excited to once again be heading to InfoComm in Orlando to showcase our latest innovations and ground-breaking products and to demonstrate our continuing evolution. In the past 12 months, since becoming a wholly owned subsidiary of TPV, PPDS in North America has grown from strength-to-strength. The team continues to grow, and the great thing is, we’re only just getting started on that front.”

With a strong emphasis on

leaux Advanced Colour ePaper (ACeP). The star of the show at ISE 2023, Philips Tableaux displays have opened an exciting new era for digital signage, with the innovative series becoming a pioneer for full colour, energy efficient and eco-friendly digital signage.

From confidently coloured menu boards to paper-free point of sale posters, the product – the first of its kind brought to market by a leading display manufacturer – is suitable for a wide range of environments, delivering full colour static content 24/7, unplugged and without using a single kilowatt of energy, using only super low power when images are changed.

There will also be a dedicated zone, showcasing the latest features and benefits of PPDS Wave, the company’s evolutionary cloud-based remote display management ecosystem, bringing a fresh, future proofed and efficiency focused approach to controlling and managing dis-

ZeeVee’s latest AV distribution solutions

ZeeVee will unveil its latest AV signal distribution solutions, including a new 1 Gig, AVoIP encoder and decoder, at InfoComm. Under the theme “From simple meeting spaces to complex AV integration projects,”

ZeeVee will introduce the ZyPerUHD60-2E 3x1 input, dual LAN encoder and ZyPerUHD60-2D dual LAN decoder. It will also show, for the first time in North America, its recently introduced ZyPer4K SDVoE encoder and decoder wall plates and HDMI 2.0 extender kit.

ZeeVee’s Director of Product Management Art Weeks will conduct an AVIXA education session entitled “Enterprise IT: AV Network Preparation, Readiness and Design,” on 14 June 14 (11:00am – 12:00pm in room W304AB) that will share best practices for AVoIP network design. He will provide examples of real-world AVoIP networks along with a high-level checklist of things to plan for in the design of any AVoIP network.

“More than ever, end-users are tasking their integrators to

deploy the most advanced signal distribution solutions available to meet their present and long-range needs,” said Bob Michaels, CEO, ZeeVee. “Today’s workplace requires AVoIP solutions that meet the needs of smaller deployments—such as for Zoom and Microsoft Teams rooms—as well as those that can integrate these with larger AV infrastructures.”

ZeeVee ZyPer4K SDVoE encoder and decoder wall plates feature 10/100/1000Base-T Ethernet ports for general purpose device attachment to a network, as well as audio input and output jacks to drive line-level stereo audio. They can distribute content via HDMI 2.0b and USB-C, as well as USB 2.0, which can be configured and routed via the ZeeVee ZyPer Management Platform (ZMP). A video select button on the encoder wall plate enables users to choose either HDMI or USB-C video inputs when both are connected. ZeeVee is the most experienced, deployed and advanced manufacturer of SDVoE products

The ZeeVee HDMI 2.0 extender kit permits signal transmissions of up to 165-feet (50 meters). Normally, HDMI cables only reach 50 feet before signal deterioration occurs, which can lead to onscreen images pixelating, lagging or dropping out entirely. The kit preserves the signal integrity via Cat6/6A/7 cables that are also more efficient to run through walls and crawl spaces than HDMI cables.

ing number of customers and markets across North America. The full scale of these benefits and market opportunities will be evident for the first time at InfoComm, with the show hailed by the team as its most important yet.

Joining more than 600 other exhibitors at the Orange County Convention Center, visitors to this year’s Philips booth will be immediately immersed into a variety of dedicated business zones, with each showcasing the full future proof benefits and opportunities of PPDS’ multiaward-winning, dedicated digital signage, dvLED, interactive displays, monitors and AV software. With specialist local and international PPDS teams – including global leaders – on hand and available for demonstrations and questions, solutions on show at InfoComm include those for education (Philips E-Line, Philips B-Line), retail (Philips H-Line, Philips D-Line), food and beverage (Philips S-Line, Philips Q-Line) and corporate (Philips T-Line). PPDS will also be showcasing the benefits of its TAA approved solutions for

sustainability from show organisers, AVIXA, at this year’s event, PPDS is going the extra mile, with visitors able to experience a growing range of leading, worldfirst innovations. These have been designed to help enhance green credentials by lowering energy consumption (including costs), extending product lifetimes without compromising on performance, and to gain more advanced remote management of their display fleets, reducing site visits.

PPDS will be showcasing the full benefits of its Philips dvLED portfolio, including the Philips L-Line 6000 series for 16:9, 21:9 and 32:9 display walls, and the versatile Philips L-Line 7000 series, which can flex to almost any indoor environment, both on display around the booth. And, extending the portfolio, delivering even greater energy efficiency, value and opportunities, PPDS will be unveiled an exciting new Philips dvLED series. One of the most anticipated and highly sought after solutions going on display at InfoComm 2023 will include PPDS’ multi award-winning Philips Tab-

play fleets of any size. All this and much more at InfoComm 2023, Philips Booth 929. Martijn van der Woude, VP Global Marketing and Business Development at PPDS, commented: “PPDS is becoming a well-respected, trusted brand in the North America market. With our innovative and transformative solutions, together with our unrivalled commitment to sustainability, we are disrupting the status quo, with a product portfolio that cannot be ignored during any tender process. With our global scale, we can support any project, no matter how big or small, be it for a single location, or across multiple locations around the world.”

Franck Racapé, VP Global Commercial, added: “As we continue to make positive noise, and increase our market share, we’re seeing the AV industry’s leading talents wanting to be a part of our journey. We’re delighted with the success being achieved in North America and can’t wait to demonstrate just how far the company has advanced in the past 12 months.”

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Optoma has appointed Benjamin Brown as their new Territory Manger for UK & Ireland. Brown takes on the sales responsibility for the company’s strategic growth plans and development within the UK and Ireland. He will be based at Optoma’s head office in Hemel Hempstead, in Hertfordshire.

Brown brings over twenty-two years of industry experience to Optoma, which he gained in the IT and AV Channels. Having worked for industry leaders such as Misco, HP, XMA, and Samsung, Benjamin Brown previously held the position of Head of Strategic Relationships and Market Development for the UK and Ireland at Promethean for three years. His expertise in the education market enabled him to rapidly grow the business during his tenure. This was achieved through the growth of IFPD in education, in particular multi-academy trusts, and also by offering focused value propositions.

“I’m delighted to be joining Optoma at such a pivotal stage in the company’s development. I am confident that I can support its continued growth, to develop the business and its propositions, to benefit our customers,” shared Brown. Nick Price, Optoma’s Executive Sales Director, said: “We are delighted to welcome Benjamin, who brings a wealth of experience and knowledge to our UK team. It’s an exciting time at Optoma right now with new innovative product solutions across the business, education, professional installation and home entertainment markets. We look forward to Brown’s contribution to our continued growth.”

VIOSO has announced the appointment of Klaus Hilles in the newly created role of global business development manager.

Raul Vandenberg, global sales director at VIOSO, states We are delighted to welcome Klaus to our team. His broad experience and knowledge of the market will be instrumental in expanding our network and identifying new opportunities in emerging markets. With Klaus on board, we are confident that we can continue our sky-rocketing success, particularly in the simulation market, and provide our growing partner network with even more valuable insights and support. Commenting on the appointment, Benjamin Fritsch, VIOSO founder and CEO, enthuses “We are thrilled to welcome Klaus to our team; he is a perfect fit for our organisation. With his outstanding reputation and extensive experience in the pro-AV B2B sector, Klaus is poised to play a crucial role in VIOSO’s continued development.”

Education Technology Specialist, Flynn Kelly Joins Hall for Business Development Hall Technologies recently added thirty-year AV veteran, Flynn Kelly, to its team to build its education sector business Kelly hails from a long career on the system integration and engineering side of designing audio-visual projects. “Education solutions are a very prominent piece of Hall Technology’s solutions. Bringing Flynn Kelly onboard helps to build out that sector more fully with dedicated support. His project management expertise and national network will ensure Hall’s classroom projects are successfully completed. Our team is lucky to have such a seasoned pro on staff. We plan to tap into his expertise and grow this vertical for Hall significantly,” says VP of Sales and Marketing, Hal Truax.

“I’m excited to start my next long career stint at Hall. Their products are amazing! That’s one of the main reasons for making the move

to future-proof their content supply chain.

“I am delighted to join the MEDIAGENIX team,” said Paulo Gonçalves. “This is a great team with a well-established reputation and a market-leading software suite for media business management. I am excited to help media organizations engage viewers across multiple VOD, linear or FAST platforms in a scalable way without running into operational constraints or costly complexities.”

“We are thrilled to welcome Paulo to our team,” said Françoise Semin, Chief Commercial Officer at MEDIAGENIX. “His extensive experience and knowledge of this industry and this market will be a valuable asset to support media companies developing their business in the world. We look forward to Paulo engaging with our existing and new customers and our partners.”

Optoma has appointed Benjamin Brown as their new Territory Manger for UK & Ireland.

VIOSO has announced the appointment of Klaus Hilles in the newly created role of global business development manager. Hilles will help grow the brand by finding new customers and partners, particularly in the field of simulation. With over 30 years of experience in the AV industry, Hilles brings a breath of expertise in projection, having worked for Christie Digital Systems for 26 years as a regional director in the DACH region, European business manager and EMEA executive director of sales. In the past, Hilles also earned his industry stripes working for Leyard, Sony and Pioneer and built-up impressive knowledge in display technologies, project and calibration, with a particular emphasis on leadership and strategic planning. “VIOSO benefits from a reputation of being a very professional organisation with vast expertise in the broad field of multiple projection and display systems,” Hilles comments. “As I am becoming more acquainted with the company and the team, I am increasingly impressed by their deep knowledge of complex projection systems, as well as the high-quality solutions and results that cater for the unique needs of VIOSO’s customers.”

In his new role, Hilles will focus on further building VIOSO’s brand as the undisputed leader in automated calibration. His efforts will include identifying new clients and partners and providing them in combination with the sales and tech team with the right solutions to address their display and calibration requirements and challenges. Hilles will also be focusing on new partnerships in the simulation market. “I am proud to join VIOSO as its global business development manager,” continues Hilles: “The company embodies values that resonate with my own and is focused on going above and beyond and working together as a team, functioning more than the sum of its individual parts.”

Hall Technologies recently added thirty-year AV veteran, Flynn Kelly, to its team to build its education sector business

to Hall – their innovations are flourishing. They’ve really nailed the concept of being a one-stop shop for classroom and UCC solutions. Expect big things from Hall Technologies, and especially in the Education and Corporate verticals. I’ll be on-hand during InfoComm to demonstrate some of those solutions. Be sure to calendar a time to stop by our booth,” says Business Development Manager, Flynn Kelly

MEDIAGENIX is pleased to announce that Paulo Gonçalves has joined the team as Pre-Sales Consultant. Paulo brings extensive expertise in the media management software industry and a deep knowledge of media organizations' business and operational requirements in the Middle East region. Paulo Gonçalves has over 20 years of experience in various business development, pre-sales consulting, business analysis and product management roles, leading and contributing to many new projects in the Broadcast, VOD and Mobile TV businesses.

As Pre-Sales Consultant, Paulo will advise broadcasters and digital players in the Middle East on the best solution to streamline workflows, maximize efficiencies, minimize waste and costs, and increase revenues from content. His deep understanding of content operations will enable him to provide tailored advice to companies looking

MEDIAGENIX is pleased to announce that Paulo Gonçalves has joined the team as Pre-Sales Consultant.

Manchester-based Nimans, part of the Midwich Group, has appointed Richard Bovingdon as business development director of the specialist AV, UC, and security distributor. Richard brings more than 22 years’ experience in AV and IT covering distributor, manufacturer, and reseller positions within the corporate, education, rental, and commercial markets. Most recently, Richard has worked for Midwich Ltd as business development general manager.

As business development director, he will work with the team to develop Nimans’ sales strategy focusing on the customer experience to drive business growth, while building on the distributor’s reputation and expertise in the market. Speaking about his new role, Richard Bovingdon, said: “I am delighted to be joining the Nimans team as business development director. For more than 35 years, the team has worked hard to become a leader in the communication and networking markets, and I look forward to helping build on that with an experienced and professional team. With a loyal customer

Manchester-based Nimans, part of the Midwich Group, has appointed Richard Bovingdon as business development director of the specialist AV, UC, and security distributor.

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and supplier base as well a myriad of opportunities available as UC technologies evolve, I will be looking at how we can strengthen our offering further while continuing to deliver the high level of service our customers are familiar with. This move comes at an exciting time as Nimans is enjoying a period of growth, and I’m excited to be part of this growth.”

Richard will be working alongside Tom Maxwell, director of channel sales, and John Bird, director of category sales. Ross Floyd, commercial director at Midwich UK&I, added: “Nimans has a great reputation for delivering excellent customer service, high-quality technical knowledge, and support, as well as a market-leading product portfolio. A little more than a year after acquiring Nimans – the merger has been successful as we work together to share resources, expertise, and support across our respective businesses. Richard has vast experience working within sales and distribution making him a great asset to the Nimans team. His passion for customer service and his head for business means he is the perfect fit to help support the team, drive new opportunities, and enhance Nimans’ capabilities through the next stage of growth for the business.”

Fabric has appointed Tuncay Pervaz as its new Chief Operating Officer. She will be responsible for Fabric’s day-to-day operations and operational processes and is tasked with fostering growth and scalability in line with Fabric’s core values and culture. The appointment

the business and further partnership opportunities within the industry. I am also really interested to join the LA media and entertainment community and keen to get involved in mentoring initiatives to give back to the industry.”

VuWall is expanding its presence in Latin America and today announced two new appointments as part of the company's investment in the region. Jorge Biatturi, appointed as Sales Director, and Diego Gudino, promoted to the role of Senior Applications Engineer, will ensure a strong local sales and engineering support team for the growing number of VuWall deployments in the area. Both will report to Eric Hénique, VuWall's Executive Vice President of International Sales.

“We have experienced an increased demand in the LATAM region, and these appointments reflect the investment in dedicated local resources to serve the needs of our partners and customers there,” said Hénique. “Jorge and Diego bring a vast understanding of ProAV and IT to their roles. With their technical background and knack for building great customer relationships, they'll be vital part of our

Densitron’s newly appointed Director of Advanced Engineering, Chris Strellis, has worked in the broadcast industry for more than 25 years. Based in the UK, Strellis has served in senior roles at Snell (now part of Grass Valley) and most recently as Engineering Manager at Grass Valley, where he was involved in designing and developing control panels and processing modules for live production. He also managed a distinguished team of hardware and software engineers, and worked closely with some of the biggest names in broadcast, including the BBC, BT Sport, Eurosport, Discovery, NEP and Sky.

“I have been aware of Densitron’s presence for more than 15 years, and during my time at Snell we partnered with them on OLED displays for the Maverik switcher panel,” says Strellis. “In that capacity, I already knew Bazile Peter and Chris Goodhall, and was aware of Pete Semerak from his good reputation when we were both at Grass Valley. Joining Densitron was an easy decision to make so I could contribute my broadcast knowledge and continue to guide this field in highly exciting times.”

VuWall is expanding its presence in Latin America and today announced two new appointments as part of the company's investment in the region. Jorge Biatturi, appointed as Sales Director, and Diego Gudino, promoted to the role of Senior Applications Engineer.

growth. I am very excited to work closely with them.”

Based in Uruguay, Biatturi will help increase market share and brand awareness in his new role. He has been in the AV market for more than 15 years as an integrator and within the ProAV manufacturing community. Most recently, he was the Director of Integration at Vision Direct. “I have had the pleasure of knowing the VuWall team for over 10 years,” said Biatturi. “I have always admired the company's cutting-edge technology, their drive to push boundaries at the forefront of innovation, and most of all, the company culture. This position is an incredible opportunity to expand my reach to a broader range of applications within the AV sector and utilize my skills and experience to succeed in VuWall's mission to help Latin American integrators address control room needs with cutting-edge technology. I couldn't be more excited.”

Takao Okada joins Densitron as Business Development Manager/ HMI Products having served in a number of senior management and business development roles at technology, engineering and manufacturing companies based in Japan. With a strong track-record of building customer and supplier relationships, Okada’s most recent positions were as Business Development Specialist at URANO Co and General Manager, Product Development Dept at TouchPanel Laboratories Co.

“Densitron offers me the opportunity to lead business development for HMI – which is a hugely exciting area of technology – and draw upon my experience in sales planning for semiconductors, displays and touch panels,” says Okada. “I also look forward to collaborating with our engineers and product developers to ensure that we continue to meet the evolving needs of our customers. The opportunity to do such dynamic work as part of a global team is one that I will relish.”

follows a period of significant growth for the company after the acquisition of Internet Video Archive (IVA) in January and the launch of its latest product for content owners, Fabric Origin, in March, which won NAB Streaming Product of the Year at NAB Show 2023. Pervaz has extensive experience running operations in media and entertainment organizations over the past 19 years. She joined Fabric in 2021 to oversee customer success from Warner Media where she led the international Business Process Improvement and Change team - positioned to deliver enterprise level transformation and change programs. She has held operational roles across the media and entertainment ecosystem including at The Walt Disney Company, Deluxe Media Europe and Encompass.

“As we build and grow Fabric as a company and our offering to our clients, it is important our global operations delivers maximum customer success,” said Rob Delf, CEO of Fabric. “Tuncay has led the operations team here at Fabric over the past two years through our latest growth phase exceptionally, and I know her skill set will enable us to capitalize on opportunities as we continue to develop integrated data services for our customers to help them drive intelligence-led acquisition strategy.”

Pervez started her career at BBC Drama after graduating from Ravensbourne College with a BA Honours Degree in Content Creation for Broadcasting and Media in 2004. Since then, Pervaz has held various operational roles for studios, service providers and vendors alike Tuncay Pervaz, COO of Fabric, said: “I am excited to grow my role with Fabric, and relocate to LA in the process. The next stage of growth for Fabric will see the further integration of Fabric Origin into

Gudino has more than 20 years of experience in networking, bringing a unique technical expertise in both IT and AV to his role. A dedicated and valued member of the VuWall team for seven years, he has held various technical positions within the company. Gudino is fluent in Spanish, English, and French and possesses exceptional troubleshooting abilities, customer service skills, as well as extensive experience with onsite installations and project deployments in Latin America. “The horizon of video walls and visualization has and continues to be shaped by VuWall's innovation,” said Gudino. “I'm excited to be part of the new team to build out the company's presence in LATAM. In this new role, I look forward to strengthening our customer relationships and helping them design best-in-class video wall deployments using all the features and benefits that have made VuWall a leader in the industry.”

Based in the US, Delaurier brings a wealth of sales, product and account management expertise at leading broadcast and media technology companies to his new role as Densitron’s Vice-President of Sales, Americas. Most recently the Chief Revenue Officer at media production software company Glookast, Delaurier has also served in senior roles at TVU Networks, Avid and Grass Valley. “The key reason why I joined Densitron is because ‘people sell to people’,” says Delaurier. “I have known Pete Semerak, for many years, and through him I was introduced to Mark Price. After spending time with Mark, I learned very quickly why Densitron was a great fit for me. In addition to the culture of Densitron, my extensive experience in the broadcast and media & entertainment industry led me to believe I could make a huge impact for Densitron in growing the business. Therefore, I have joined the Densitron team to show the American markets what we have to offer and work with our customers to enhance an everlasting partnership.”

Simon Jones, CEO, Densitron, comments: “The past 18 months have been massively important in determining the future course of Densitron at a very exciting and fast-moving time in the broadcast & media industry. Allan, Chris and Takao bring to their roles a wealth of experience that will benefit the entire business as we continue to grow the profile of our market-leading solutions, such as the IDS Control System, and enhance our offering in areas such as haptics and tactile control. They are going to be instrumental to Densitron’s next phase of development, and I am delighted that they have chosen us to work with us.” sales through the CI and retail channels.”

Connected Distribution has appointed Alan Briggs to oversee UK sales and installer/retailer support across the company’s portfolio of custom installation and hi-fi products. Prior to his appointment by Connected Distribution, Alan, who lives in South Lanarkshire, worked with some of the leading custom installation distribution businesses and previously was employed by Connected Distribution when it was The Multi-Room Company.

“I am very much looking forward to my return to Connected Distribution after a period of 11 years. The experience I have gained working for other major distributors will be of great benefit as I take up this new role,” says Briggs. He continues, “Connected Distribution is a dynamic and exciting business, which has some incredible brands in its range that offer superb performance and great benefits for installers and end-users alike. My decision to re-join the company was driven both by these brands and the directors’ plans for growth in the high-end cinema and commercial installation sectors, through its new brands including Aurea cinema speakers and Muxlab AV and Unified Communications products. I am confident that together we can make a significant impact.”

Welcoming him to the company, Mike Bonnette, Connected Distribution director, says, “We are delighted that Alan is returning to the Connected family and can’t think of anyone more suited to the task of developing the business across the new sectors. His prior experience with our products and in-depth knowledge of custom installation and high-end home cinema will be invaluable as we continue to develop our portfolio and sales through the CI and retail channels.”

Fabric has appointed Tuncay Pervaz as its new Chief Operating Officer.