AV News May 2022

The direct channel to the industry

May 2022 www.avnewsonline.com Page 7

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Is the future of global hybrid collaboration a Thunderbolt from the past?

ISE 2022 – stop press

We are in a moment of change.

We’ve had these moments before, but this one is very different.

As we write, there is just a couple of weeks to do before ISE 2022 opens its doors to exhibition visitors.

Sharp/NEC joint venture complete Sharp NEC Display Solutions Europe is placing the entire visual display line-up of both Sharp and NEC branded products under one umbrella. Sharp NEC Display Solutions will provide significant value and business advantage to customers and partners through access to an enhanced portfolio and an extended range of professional service offerings.

The brands are uniting their extensive industry expertise and market recognition. Sharp’s

innovative business products include professional and commercial displays, as well as the development of advanced technologies in interactive and 8K. NEC’s broad range of high-quality visual technology and digital signage solutions for a wide variety of industries are recognised by customers worldwide.

Sharp NEC Display Solutions Europe, led by President and CEO Bernd Eberhardt, will follow a strategic path to the future of visual solutions, focusing on superior customer satisfaction enabled by high-quality products, sales leadership excellence and a strong commitment to relationship-building.

“By combining the strengths of Sharp and NEC, we are pro-

viding the widest range of visual solutions across multiple technologies, all engineered for trusted long-life reliability.

Sharp NEC Display Solutions Europe seeks to improve user creativity and productivity with products that help our customers address their business challenges, with each product supported with our world-renowned care and integrity. For the time being, Sharp/NEC will offer two lines of displays that will be continuously aligned as

we move forward,” commented Bernd Eberhardt, President and CEO. “The company may have changed, but our mission – which is deeply rooted in our business – remains the same.

Both teams share a longstanding experience and deep knowledge of the market. Our commitment to sustainability and quality – both in terms of our products and the worldclass service and support of our teams – are a perfect match,” concluded Eberhardt.

The debut and first demonstration of the joint strength of the new company, Sharp NEC Display Solutions Europe, will take place at ISE 2022. We are excited to connect and engage with our valued partners and customers in Barcelona in May.

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Growth investment in Hall Technologies Hall Technologies has announced that it has received an additional equity investment by Gun Lake Investments (“GLI”) to support the Company as it pursues a rapid organic growth plan cantered around new product expansion. GLI’s initial investment into Hall Technologies dates back to 2018, and effective April 1st, GLI increased its majority share of the business while assuming management control of the Company. The investment signals GLI’s confidence in Hall

Technologies’ leadership, product portfolio, and future growth trajectory.

“GLI is known for building relationships leading to investment opportunities that turn into success stories. They see our potential and are giving us the resources we need to expand our presence in the professional audio/visual industry. GLI’s CEO, Monica King will assume the role of Chairwoman for Hall Technologies. We are thrilled to have her aboard as we embark on this expansion as she adds

a depth of experience and diversity to our leadership team,” says Jason Schwartz, CEO of Hall Technologies.

“GLI’s approach to investments is unique relative to other private equity investors – their people-first mantra and longterm approach align well with the Company’s strategy and culture. They see us as an innovator in the AV industry with a promising product roadmap.

Our engineers, sales and support staff are innovative, collaborative, and connected to

designing solutions that reimagine the way people live, work, and play”.

“We are ecstatic to take an even more active role alongside the great team at Hall Technologies as they continue to expand and excel in the high-growth professional A/V market,” King said.

“We think there’s tremendous opportunity in their core markets – including healthcare, corporate IT, and education – building upon their outstanding reputation and brand.”

The world’s leading audio visual and systems integration exhibition arrives in Barcelona on 10-13 May 2022. Speaking at a press briefing, Integrated Systems Events Managing Director, Mike Blackman, said: “I’m delighted, and honoured, to be standing here today five years since Integrated Systems Events, and its co-owners AVIXA and CEDIA, decided to relocate the Integrated Systems Europe show to Barcelona. After 16 years in Amsterdam, it was time for us to find a new home for our show, and in just two weeks’ time, ISE 2022 will open its doors at the Gran Vía, Fira de Barcelona.”

ISE is a showcase for cutting edge visual and aural products and solutions where manufacturers and service suppliers will present the latest pro AV innovations developed for the commercial and residential market sectors. Over 800 exhibitors, set over six Technology Zones across five halls of the Gran Vía will showcase the latest in multipurpose AV. From the commercial AV sector, attendees will be able to

explore the latest innovative AV technologies being produced for numerous market sectors operating in Learning, Live Events, Performance, Retail, Conferencing and Collaboration, Security and Healthcare, to name just a few. Some of the leading brands exhibiting at ISE 2022 include Alfalite, Barco, Christie, Google, KNX, LANG, Microsoft, Panasonic, Samsung, Shure, Sony and Zoom.

On the residential side, visitors will be able to view the latest flat panel TVs, in-ceiling speakers, projectors, projection screens, cinema rooms, lighting, and security systems. Just some of the leading residential brands exhibiting at ISE 2022 include Artcoustic, Crestron, L-Acoustics, KNX, Rako Controls, Sony, Storm Audio and many more.

ISE brings together the global AV community. In addition to invaluable networking opportunities, it has much to offer both exhibitors and attendees. A five-day conference programme runs throughout the week covering topics that range from retail technology, to

control rooms, live events, education, and even superyachts.

Over 150 thought leaders and

experts are confirmed to participate in the daily programme.

ISE 2022 prepared for Barcelona

ISE facts and figures • The AV industry to grow to $329bn by 2026, average growth rates of 7.2% CAGR • Across Spain pro AV revenue €3bn in 2022, to rise by 6.2% by 2026 • ISE show 800 exhibitors in 2022 to grow to 1,775 by 2026 • ISE show to increase net floor space from 42,000sqm to more than 77,000sqm by 2026 • By 2023 ISE to contribute €250-300m to Barcelona economy, growing to €500m by 2026 (SOURCE: UFI) Integrated Systems Europe, ISE 2022, will take place at the Fira de Barcelona Gran Vía on 10-13 May 2022. The ISE Conference programme runs from Monday 9 May through to Thursday 12 May.

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Business News

VuWall Expands both sides of the Atlantic

BenQ unveils New Experience Suite in Northern Ireland

VuWall has announced an expansion at their North American and European headquarter setups. The expanded footprint

BenQ UK has extended its reach in Northern Ireland opening a new office and Experience Suite in to support its growing client base. Located in Ebrington Square, Derry - Londonderry, the new space will be managed by Chris Mellowship, Senior Technical Sales Manager at BenQ UK, who will be available for in person and virtual demonstrations and user adoption training sessions.

Within the new Experience Suite, clients and partners will be able to get up close and personal with BenQ’s range of interactive display solutions.

This includes the new RM03 interactive display to enhance collaboration in classrooms and the modern workplace, latest wireless presentation devices, Smart Signage including the World’s first and only Pantone Validated Signage Display and large venue projectors for creating immersive scenes in leisure

ing business success. VuWall continues to operate production and manufacturing in its European headquarters, now in

sionals to continue providing our global customer base with the most innovative technology.”

and retail settings.

Alongside this exciting expansion, the BenQ Bus will also be crossing the Irish Sea to begin its roadshow of both Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland. This houses BenQ’s extensive portfolio of education and hybrid workplace technology solutions and brings them directly to the doors of clients, prospects and partners. This includes BenQ monitors for working, gaming and home entertainment, all of which feature the manufacturer’s exclusive eye-care technology to help reduce eye fatigue while ensuring greater comfort after long periods of monitor use.

Royce Lye, Managing Director UK&I at BenQ said: “BenQ has been innovating in the professional AV and home entertainment markets for over 20 years and we are pleased to be extending our footprint on-the-ground support to both

Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland. This is a growing market for us so we wanted to ensure that we had a team readily available to work alongside our user community and ensure that they can experience our latest solutions as well as make informed purchasing decisions. All this will be possible with the use of our new office located in Ebrington Square, Derry- Londonderry”

BenQ UK has extended its reach in Northern Ireland opening a new office and Experience Suite to support its growing client base. Located in Ebrington Square, Derry - Londonderry, the new space will be managed by Chris Mellowship, Senior Technical Sales Manager at BenQ UK.

VuWall has announced an expansion at their North American and European headquarter setups. The expanded footprint now accommodates the thirty percent increase in employees in the last fifteen months. now accommodates the thirty percent increase in employees in the last fifteen months and the need for a larger production facility. Through its substantial investment in international operations, VuWall has introduced new talent to support growing research and development and strengthen the support, operations, sales, and marketing departments in both offices.

VuWall has developed a significant growth plan to expand its global operations. In recent years, VuWall has launched new technology, partnered with industry giants such as Samsung and Genetec, received certifications and award recognition, and celebrated ongo-

a new, larger facility in Reutlingen, Germany. The company’s North American headquarters, which houses software development, quality assurance, sales, marketing, and technical support teams, remains at the same Montreal location, now in a renovated and expanded facility.

“I am so impressed and proud to see the steady growth and progress that the team has achieved, as I think back of how I was running the business out of my living room in the first years,” said Paul Vander Plaetse, founder and chief executive officer of VuWall. “We are committed to investing in the resources and skilled profes-

VuWall’s disruptive hybrid technology bridges AV, IT and IP systems to seamlessly manage and control visual content. The company delivers an ecosystem of interoperable products that includes video wall processors, encoders, and decoders — all managed by their unique TRx Centralized Management Platform, eliminating the complexity of traditional video wall control and signal distribution over IP, without any programming. VuWall’s technology sets a new industry benchmark in ease of use and deployment for the most effective distribution of any source to any display in professional and mission-critical applications.

TeamViewer AR available in Microsoft Azure marketplace TeamViewer has announced that Microsoft customers can now purchase TeamViewer’s enterprise remote connectivity suite, TeamViewer Tensor, and its enterprise Augmented Reality (AR) platform, TeamViewer Frontline, through Microsoft Azure Marketplace and Microsoft AppSource. This gives companies an additional channel to buy TeamViewer solutions with existing Microsoft billing procedures.

Customers can go directly to Microsoft AppSource or Azure Marketplace and browse a wide variety of apps that have passed Microsoft’s security and compatibility testing. Here, you can also find TeamViewer solutions now and buy them within a few clicks. This process can greatly simplify procurement of TeamViewer solutions for Microsoft customers. They can buy

commitments.”

Jake Zborowski, General Manager, Microsoft Azure Platform at Microsoft Corp. said, “We’re pleased to welcome TeamViewer to the Microsoft Azure Marketplace and AppSource, which gives our partners great

exposure to cloud customers around the globe. Azure Marketplace and AppSource offers world-class quality experiences from global trusted partners with solutions tested to work seamlessly with Azure.”

TeamViewer has announced that Microsoft customers can now purchase TeamViewer’s enterprise remote connectivity suite, TeamViewer Tensor, and its enterprise Augmented Reality (AR) platform, TeamViewer Frontline, through Microsoft Azure Marketplace and Microsoft AppSource.

TeamViewer Tensor or Frontline for single-sign-on into Team- ness, from remote IT support and apply 100 percent of the Viewer solutions and Team- to assisting frontline workers purchase towards their Micro- Viewer Frontline runs on Micro- with AR-based step-by-step soft Azure Consumption Com- soft HoloLens. instructions on wearable devicmitment (MACC), adding even “We’ve developed and main- es. Transacting from Microsoft more value to Microsoft invest- tained deep integration be- Azure Marketplace and Microments. tween TeamViewer and Micro- soft AppSource will help our TeamViewer integrates into soft solutions for many years joint customers speed up their various leading Microsoft solu- now,” says Alfredo Patron, Ex- purchasing process by adding tions: TeamViewer’s remote ecutive Vice President of Busi- TeamViewer to their existing access, control and support ness Development at Team- Azure bill. It is great that we capabilities are integrated into Viewer. “We share a joint vision can provide customers a way to Microsoft Intune, Teams and for the future of work and the get the most business value out Dynamics 365, Azure is used digital transformation of busi- of their Microsoft consumption

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Business News

Lightware and NETGEAR deliver new Neat and Maverick partner in innovative video experiences hybrid solutions Lightware Visual Engineering and NETGEAR are streamlining the process of merging traditional pro AV and emerging IT environments to create seamless user experiences across a range of commercial applications. The two companies are working together to create a repository of intuitive resources

applications using Lightware and NETGEAR technologies.

Lightware’s AV-over-IP devices, UBEX and VINX solutions work together with NETGEAR’S switches helping users get the highest performance from their systems, whether their goal is to find new devices or to easily configure existing ones. NET-

and documentation highlighting how their respective products can be seamlessly integrated to remove much of the complexity users face during hybrid AV/IT installations.

By working together, Lightware and NETGEAR are addressing one of the biggest challenges faced by system designers and network infrastructure specialists: evaluating the hundreds of available IT and/or AV options to select the right devices that reliably work together.

This collaboration is designed to explore the potential joint

GEAR’S full line of M4300, M4500, and the new M425 series switches provide a range of configurations along with powerful PoE options. All are fully compatible with Lightware’s devices, including the UBEX and VINX AV-over-IP systems.

“The AV industry is increasingly relying on existing IT infrastructure for transmitting high-resolution video signals, rapidly accelerating the need for new signal management devices that are compatible with these environments,” said Gergely Vida, CEO & founder of

Lightware. “Our goal is to give customers reliable, tried and tested solutions when it comes to building systems that offer the best of both the pro AV and IT worlds, making life easier for end-users and letting them focus on their business, not the technology behind the scenes.”

Both companies have complementary resources that benefit their mutual customers.

NETGEAR has a dedicated team of AV-over-IP professionals available to assist system designers and end-users with building infrastructures that fit their needs. Lightware’s support engineers are also readily available and offer easy-to-use, downloadable configuration files specifically created for NETGEAR switches.

“Lightware has a proven track record of seamlessly integrating and operating with the most widely accepted networking equipment on the market,” said John Henkel, Director of SMB Product Marketing at NETGEAR. “Lightware and NETGEAR devices also have a long history of being successfully used together in diverse projects and installations.

We’re looking forward to continuing this collaboration and working together to drive the AV/IT industries forward.”

Neat and Maverick have announced a partnership to bring Neat’s ground-breaking video devices and experiences to customers across Europe. Under the agreement, Maverick AV Solutions, will distribute Neat’s complete product portfolio to customers in 18 countries across Europe. Neat and Maverick AV Solutions share a common vision to think differently about meetings and meeting spaces to enable exceptional collaboration for distributed and hybrid teams.

Maverick AV Solution’s ‘Smart Meetings’ portfolio delivers collaboration solutions tailored to each customer’s specific needs, which perfectly complements Neat’s innovative and unique video devices, designed for better meetings across all kinds of spaces.

“Our Smart Meetings initiative is all about helping our customers identify the technology they

need to fit their specific meeting space requirements, and Neat’s portfolio of devices is a perfect fit. Neat Board, Neat Bar, Neat Bar Pro and Neat Frame especially are beautifully designed, simple to deploy and use for Microsoft Teams and Zoom. They are an exciting addition to our portfolio and will help both our IT and AV partners to introduce more meeting equity for their clients.” said Simon Kitson, Smart Meetings Director for Maverick AV solutions. “We look forward to working with Neat to bring their devices to customers across Europe.”

“We are excited to work with Tech Data and Maverick AV Solutions to bring Neat’s devices to a broader audience of customers who are looking to enjoy the best meeting experience possible,” said Wayne Mason, EMEA and

APAC Distribution Lead for Neat. “Neat is committed to delivering exceptional devices and experiences for today’s hybrid workforce, and Maverick AV Solutions complements that with the expertise and market presence to ensure world-class support for all our joint customers.”

With a full range of devices for meeting spaces of all kinds, Neat delivers unique features to support a safer, more enhanced and engaging hybrid working and learning environment. Neat devices are designed for Microsoft Teams and Zoom, and will now be available via Maverick AV Solutions in the UK and Ireland, Belgium, Luxembourg and Netherlands, Norway, Sweden, Denmark, Finland, Germany, Austria, Switzerland, France, Italy, Slovenia, Croatia, Czech Republic, Hungary, Poland, Spain and Portugal.

Privacy and security concerns as workers return

The changing attitudes of UK workers returning to the office after two years of home working during the pandemic should prompt a rethink of how offices are designed, with a special focus on privacy for individuals at work. That’s according to the latest research from eFax, the cloud-based fax solution for businesses, which found that 42 per cent of workers are already struggling with a lack of privacy in the workplace.

While the research did find that a third of office workers appreciate being able to access technology at work, 28 per cent find it harder to concentrate, and 16 per cent actively dislike the lack of privacy compared to home working. Scott Wilson, Vice President of Sales and Service at eFax, stated: “Before the pandemic, the conventional view was that offices were essential to productivity. Companies focused on solutions that were seen to promote collaboration, and this, in turn, meant open-plan offices, hot desking, and people working side by side in limited spaces.

But, during the pandemic, office workers at home in lockdown quickly adapted to regularly using technologies such as video calling and conferencing, plus other digital collaboration tools. They got used to the privacy afforded by working from home. There is an appetite now among workers for the same level of privacy in the workplace. Demand for this – and the technology that supports it – is now a reality. In early 2022, eFax conducted a major research project to gain a greater understanding of how UK workers felt about returning to the office after the Covid-19 pandemic. The company commissioned a survey of 503 UK workers in large enterprises, small to medium-sized businesses (SMEs) and public sec-

tor organisations.

The key findings included: • 42 per cent of workers are finding it hard to adjust to working in an office with less privacy. When asked what the biggest change was, they noticed on returning to the office, 16 per cent of all respondents cited a lack of privacy • Being overheard at work is the biggest concern for 26 per cent of respondents, while 32 per cent disliked being disturbed and 28 per cent found it harder to concentrate • When asked what would help their return to the workplace, 45 per cent of respondents said they wanted more spaces for virtual meetings. A further 19 per cent wanted bigger roles for conference AV equipment • More than a fifth of respondents – 22 per cent – highlighted the need for better technology solutions for sending confidential files and data “Privacy – and the security that requires - is obviously a key priority for workers returning to work. In today’s digitalised economy, data is an essential and valuable commodity and organisations have a responsibility to put in place effective measures for workers to operate both privately and securely. “This responsibility extends to the secure transmission of sensitive and confidential data.

It’s for this reason that faxing remains a critical part of many organisations’ communications infrastructure. However, too many organisations still rely on outdated, insecure, and expensive on-premise fax servers when other more reliable and secure cloud-based alternatives are available,” concluded Wilson.

Neat and Maverick have announced a partnership to bring Neat’s ground-breaking video devices and experiences to customers across Europe.

Product information management to meet consumer expectations Customer expectations have skyrocketed in recent years with consumers being given more choice than ever before. To ensure organisations stay one step ahead, it is imperative they invest in the correct technology that not only improves efficiency but also enhances the customer experience. One way this can be achieved is by having the right Product Information Management (PIM) system in place, according to OneTimePIM. PIM is a growing industry, with more businesses adopting the software year on year. As we move further towards the age of digitalisation and eCommerce, good organisation of product information is vital. Having the correct system in place can also make it much quicker and easier to access information for customer support teams. That means, when there is a customer on the other side of the phone, your staff can find the information they need and pass it on almost immediately.

Dr Pat Violaris, Managing Director at OneTimePIM, said: “Customer experience is essential to a business’s success.

Satisfied customers equal repeat business and recommen-

dations. Recent research found that 80% of people will stop doing business with a company because of poor customer experience. It doesn’t matter whether you’re a B2C or B2B company, it’s important to provide customers with the information they need when they need it.

“It is vital for organisations to build strong trust and form a relationship with customers and one of the key ways of doing this is to be transparent about your products. People want to buy products with good information.

You would be more likely to buy a phone if you could view all of the technical specifications then if you could not. That is why it is important to ensure product information is up-to-date, accu-

rate, and consistent across all platforms. With full disclosure of your products information, there is also less worry about getting into trouble over customer's health and safety, which could be an issue if product information is stored and displayed incorrectly.”

As more organisations look to expand, they come across new sets of issues. A breakdown in communication is one example, which is often experienced through data silos. Often organisations find it difficult to share or access data across multiple departments. Dr Violaris continued: “A data silo is a collection of data held by one group that is not easily or fully accessible by other groups in the same organisation. PIM Systems eliminate these in relation to product data because all departments have access to the same single source of truth.

This encourages collaboration across departments and

enhances team morale. For example, the technical team may need to update attributes like length, height and weight.

Once this is done, the marketing team can come in and write rich product descriptions and titles without having to ask other teams to send further information.”

“Most importantly, any system that increases efficiency of an employee’s job, while removing the need to manually perform repetitive, monotonous tasks is likely to increase employee happiness, which in turn impacts the happiness of customers. With a central location for all of the company's product data, the stress of trying to find the latest product information from different parts of the company is eliminated and allows employees to focus on other important areas of the business”, concluded Dr Violaris.

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Solutions Profile

Is the future of global hybrid collaboration a Thunderbolt from the past?

PolyVision’s Thunder unveiled at Maverick in March 2006 We are in a moment of change. We’ve had these moments before, but this one is very different. Enabling people in different locations to collaborate effectively has long been the holy grail of technology companies. Back in March 2006, many of the good and great in AV gathered alongside Jon Sidwick at Maverick’s Green Park office in Reading, for the unveiling of PolyVision’s Thunder - the multiple display collaboration system that, we were then convinced, had the potential to change how technology would enable collaboration on a global scale. Thunder’s array of projected images containing digital files and hand-written electronic flipcharts, looked like a compelling solution for ideation, problem solving, process development, and more. Duncan Peberdy explains what happened next.

The reimagining of technology from yesteryear is nothing new.

CopyCam, the Steelcase camera development that captured the content of a large dry-erase whiteboard and saved the image to your network or a 3.5” floppy disk [the clunky forerunner to a micro-USB drive for our younger readers!], was spookily similar to Crestron’s AirBoard development a dozen or more years later. Today, Scribe from Logitech is also having a go at the digital capture of handwritten meeting content.

And if your CopyCam was located in a meeting room that was managed by RoomWizard, the very first screen-based room booking system, and another Steelcase first, that integrated with Outlook and Lotus Notes, then those captured writing board notes could be automatically sent to all the meeting participants. And we all know the Evoko’s, Visneto’s and Condecco’s that have subsequently taken room booking systems to the next level.

For most of the last two years, where we’ve worked, how we’ve worked, and who we’ve worked with, have been determined by the necessity of government directives to protect populations, and not in purposely designed office spaces. Remote working was not new for many people, and there is always work best completed within the solitude of isolation.

But being socially together in offices, having robust interchanges of ideas when we meet to share information or create solutions, are the types of in-

teractions that we’ve struggled to replicate over distance. Social interaction, that builds trust, allows for spontaneity and provides us with a holistic viewpoint that we can’t get from just our laptop screen in a home office, helps us to create deeper connections between those present, and to dive deeper into innovative ideas for problem solving or creating new goods and services.

Our ‘moment of change’ might also be described as a tension between corporations, who largely want to return to how things were, and their employees who, having been part of an impromptu experiment in how we work, have valued not having to commute five days each week, and are questioning the necessity to do so moving forwards.

So whether it’s the next Covid, another Putin-esque disaster, or climate change, this new flexibility uncovered by the mass requirement for remote working, the improved work-life balance [that we’ve paid lip-service to but realistically kept at arm'slength for decades] along with mental health benefits, has the potential to increase productivity too. It’s also an inconvenient truth that many organisations haven’t yet figured out where hybrid sits in their strategies, and how many more resignations and the resulting exodus of talent are required before they take ownership.

Innovation spaces, collaboration rooms, and customer experience centres are purposely designed to maximise their ef-

fectiveness with furniture and technology that are not present in huddle rooms or our home offices. Consequently, workflows fall down when we want to connect people in those different spaces with different tools to work together, as will increasingly be the case. And so the fallback is to use the tools that everyone has, most commonly Microsoft Teams or Zoom, which are really great for connecting people, but not for underpinning effective visual collaboration between hybrid teams.

All too often we think the solution is to put a large format interactive screen on the wall.

Yes, everyone present can see the content better, but the real effectiveness is constrained by the fact that one person is usually controlling it with a cast from their laptop, or the account they’ve signed into at the device, and it’s their content they are typically dominating with. PolyVision knew the power of multiple pieces of content from multiple participants in multiple locations, they just couldn’t figure out technically how to deploy Thunder in a way that was a good customer experience.

Both individuals and corporations would thrive if we could actually achieve those same in-person benefits when not everyone was in the same room together. That would be a game changer. It would not only allow us to be highly effective in an increasingly hybrid world that is clearly here to stay, but it would provide businesses with the

real opportunity, a commercial advantage, to react more quickly when situations that demand such agility arise. Forget about the tangible savings of airfares, hotel bills and corporate dining, and concentrate instead on the business advantage of being able to effectively hold such human interactions between people in different places at the same time NOW, instead of the days waiting to bring people physically together.

Hybrid is not only a mix of where people are located, but the option to work in the most effective location. Being in the office will still be important, just not all of the time. And when workers do go to the office, it won’t be to sit in isolated offices or booths, but instead to be in open environments for collaboration, for delivering customer experiences, for spontaneous interactions. In fact, we will need more of these spaces purposely designed and technologically equipped so that those not present feel ever more connected to their colleagues.

Sometimes we fear change, but when change improves both our effectiveness and satisfaction at work and enables more flexibility for our personal lives, then everyone benefits, and change is a force for good. This is what our current moment of change must achieve, for the long term.

ThinkHub by T1V Based in Charlotte, North Carolina, T1V [the company name stands for “A Team with 1 Vision”], has slowly but surely been enabling leading global organisations to tap into the power of visual collaboration, and has a small range of software solutions for different collaborative meeting and learning environments. The immediate response might be a WOW moment, but there’s far more going on than just great technology at work. Crucially, ThinkHub helps address the real needs of businesses and educators looking for a commercial advantage through effective collaboration over distance, by enabling multiple WOW moments - or Ways Of Working.

At the outset, ThinkHub’s original strength was to give in-room teams a large visual canvas that everyone could contribute content and ideas to, and for that content to be manipulated, arranged, and shared intuitively to drive project success. Multiple ThinkHubs, located anywhere in the world, can mirror their content and allow anyone, anywhere to be fully active in collaboration with colleagues, clients or suppliers. By not limiting content to just the presenter and allowing anyone anywhere to fully participate, ThinkHub provides everyone with an equity of participation and increased social belonging

when located in corporate offices that are separated geographically.

It’s common for the software platforms that organisations use in their flagship collaboration and customer experience spaces to be different to the software people use in more traditional meetings spaces and on their laptops. With the release of ThinkHub Cloud, a development two years in the making, T1V has addressed the needs of remote workers to be more integral to hybrid meetings and provided businesses with the ability to connect hybrid teams in a way not previously possible.

ThinkHub Cloud delivers the same in-room benefits to hybrid workers based away from their offices. The working canvas that in-room colleagues find so powerful for teamwork also resides in real time on their laptop providing the same affordances of inclusive human belonging to every meeting space; collaboration spaces, meeting rooms, and remote working. It’s the missing link that solves historical problems of not-being-there when joining meetings remotely, and gives everyone social interaction, a holistic viewpoint of all the content, and parity of participation. Greater inclusion can only lead to greater work satisfaction and reduces the likelihood of talent leaving to work for organisations that better meet their new hybrid needs.

About the author Back in 2006 when PolyVision’s Thunder launched, Duncan Peberdy was spearheading their European sales. More recently, Duncan has been a visionary in the development of active collaborative learning for universities and colleges, creating a roadshow in partnership with Jisc that was single-handedly responsible for the development of hundreds of active collaborative learning classrooms across the whole of the UK and bits of Europe too.

This February, Duncan joined T1V as their European Territory manager to evangelise the new opportunities for better hybrid working that ThinkHub enables, and works with end users to create the demand, and channel partners to create the push.

A similar consultative approach that made the roadshow approach so successful for higher and further education and the integration companies that fulfilled the demand created. Duncan will be at ISE in May, and ThinkHub will be featured in the AV Collective Roadshows in London, Leeds and Dublin this autumn. You can contact Duncan at: dpeberdy@t1v.com or +44 [0] 7887 628 567.

P7 AV News May 2022

Technology News

Leader offers enhanced HD-HDR production Leader Electronics reports an accelerating transition to high-definition high-dynamic-range production across the broadcast industry with the majority of television networks holding back from introducing 4K-UHD services.

"ATSC 3.0 looks set to be a key theme of the April 2022 NAB Show given the very large number of 4K-UHD TV sets now in consumer ownership," says Kevin Salvidge, Leader Eu-

"The feedback we are experiencing from across the industry, particularly the sports OB sector, is that many TV networks are now seriously considering HD-HDR as the way forward. Most consumer 4K-UHD television displays incorporate high quality upconverters which perform well from HD source content. Originating in HD-HDR adds enormously to the viewing experience, whether seen in its native resolution

which is essential for live production.

Leader's LV5600 is a mains-powered SDI/IP waveform monitor in a half-rack width 3U desktop chassis with a touch-screen front panel display. It provides the facilities needed to monitor SDI as well as video-over-IP signals seamlessly in a hybrid operating environment. Engineering-related features include test pattern generation, eye pattern display,

New Unreal Engine 5 plugin for next-generation visuals Following the highly anticipated launch of Epic Games’ Unreal Engine 5, users of visual storytelling platform disguise can, with the help of disguise’s new RenderStream plugin, immediately benefit from the game engine’s next-generation photorealistic visual capabilities. disguise has been working closely with Epic Games to develop and launch the latest version of their free, open-sourced proprietary RenderStream plugin that allows its user community to seamlessly integrate Unreal Engine into their disguise workflow with minimal configuration. Through RenderStream, disguise users can create output streams on Unreal Engine projects allowing them to make real-time content changes directly from disguise’s software interface Designer.

The new plugin also enables users to unlock new features in Unreal Engine 5 such as the

Nanite virtualised micropolygon geometry system and a new Virtual Shadow Map system, allowing them to create virtual scenes in extended reality (xR) with massive amounts of geometric detail.

To benefit from the latest features in Unreal Engine 5 within their disguise productions, users will need to have access to the latest disguise software release, r21. Released just a week before UE5, r21 brought significant improvements to the disguise software UI and overall system performance, as well as new tools for colour workflows. Developed with the help of disguise’s Live and Colour Insider groups and software beta testers, r21 addresses common user challenges and requirements across both live and virtual production environments, also unlocking a most streamlined user experience.

For the past two years, disguise

and Epic Games have been partnering to democratise the delivery of 3D graphics across all types of industries including virtual production, broadcast, corporate events and beyond.

Where Unreal Engine continues to push the boundaries in photorealistic 3D graphics, disguise offers a seamless way to deliver this real-time generated content into LED volumes, projection setups and any sort of physical display configuration at any scale.

“Unreal Engine 5 unlocks the most photorealistic real-time content we have ever seen, and, with the help of disguise, users can implement it into their productions with minimal setup requirements so they can focus on delivering their best creations,” says disguise Technical Solutions Director Peter Kirkup.

The Leader ZEN Series LV5600 waveform monitor and ZEN Series LV7600 rasterizer. rope’s Sales Engineering Manager. "4K-UHD is very much part of that standard but relatively few terrestrial or satellite broadcasters have yet committed to transmitting in that resolution, let alone in 4K-UHD HDR. "Broadcasters have long been concerned that the 55 inch average size of domestic TV displays does not offer the full benefit of 4K-UHD resolution.

Couple this with the increased infrastructure required to support 4K-UHD production and it becomes obvious why broadcasters are struggling to justify 4K-UHD transmission.

or on a 4K-HDR TV display.

HD-HDR can be handled in a broadcast facility using existing 3G-SDI infrastructure.

"All test instruments in Leader's ZEN Series come as standard with the tools needed for HD-HDR signal analysis. 4K/ UHDTV (SER28) and HDR (SER23) tools can be activated at any time in the future by purchasing a software license key. The SER23 HDR Analysis license supports HLG, PQ (SMPTE 2084), S-Log-3, C-Log and Log-C analysis. The LV5600 and LV7600 can simultaneously display multiple HDR transfer characters in HD,

closed-caption monitoring, CIE chroma chart, HDR measurement, focus assist, customizable screen layout, tally interface, 4K/UHD operation, 10G IP input and 12G-SDI interfaces. SMPTE 2022-6, SMPTE 2022-7 and SMPTE 2110 protocols are all supported. The LV5600 also incorporates Leader's intuitive CINEZONE and CINELITE which are familiar to many content production staff. The LV7600 rasterizing waveform monitor offers the same capabilities as the LV5600 but in a low-profile 19 inch 1U form-factor for easy rack or desk mounting.

Broadcast Pix has announced the launch of FX Hybrid, bringing the new Hybrid architecture to the AV market with the most powerful performance for the price in its class. The latest in the hybrid range, the FX Hybrid delivers incredible flexibility, from HDMI to SDI to network inputs at 4K resolution at an affordable price point and replaces the legacy FX series with a single more powerful and flexible model.

The FX Hybrid also includes Commander, the totally configurable browser-based remote user interface, media aware macros and the recently released GuestPix as standard providing industry leading control, automation, and connectivity.

FX Hybrid features include: • 6 Network + 4 HDMI/SDI + 1 HDMI/SDI/analogue inputs • 1 NDI™ + 1 HD/SDI + 1 SD/ SDI + 1 HDMI + 1 analogue output • Built-in 3D motion CG graphics system for the easy creation of dazzling graphics • 8 channels of clips and graphics with 60 hours of storage • 3 keyers each with DVEs and Virtual Studios with ClearKey chromakeyer • 1080p/60 and 4K ready hardware server • GuestPix remote guest integration • Media aware macro automation • Program recording and integrated streaming to Facebook Live and other CDNs

• Internal audio mixing • Integrated PTZ camera control of leading robotic cameras • Remote “browser-based” and “easy-to-operate” user interfaces with Commander • Full motion BPview customizable multi-view monitoring “Designed for today’s hybrid production environments, the FX Hybrid is great for churches, schools, government agencies, businesses, and broadcasters, who need to utilize their existing gear while integrating IP cameras, computer-generated content and other NDI sources,” said Graham Sharp, CEO, Broadcast Pix. “This easy-touse and future-proof solution supports the live production needs of our users today and into the future, at an affordable

disguise has been working closely with Epic Games to develop and launch the latest version of their free, open-sourced proprietary RenderStream plugin.

Broadcast Pix introduces FX Hybrid

P8 AV News May 2022

price. ”FX Hybrid is now available from Broadcast Pix resellers worldwide for $17,995 USD.

Broadcast Pix has announced the launch of FX Hybrid, bringing the new Hybrid architecture to the AV market with the most powerful performance for the price in its class.

Technology News

AVer Europe launches all-in-one Innlights announces new pop-up video conferencing camera series AVer Europe has announced the launch of its newest high-end camera, the VB342 Pro. The all-in-one VB342 Pro comes with an integrated high-quality speaker and microphone, as well as an upgraded premium video bar, providing a quality video conferencing experience for all small to medium size

meeting rooms.

The VB342 Pro features next generation improvements including a 15X total zoom, 8-metre microphone range and support for extension 10m/20m speakerphones/microphones.

Rene Buhay, SVP of Sales and Marketing at AVer Europe comments, “This all-in-one camera incorporates the latest AVer technology to give businesses unprecedented virtual meeting quality in any small to medium-sized meeting room.”

The VB342 Pro features include: • Presentation Tracking: Through a combination of audio tracking and video tracking, when the presenter speaks in the pre-set area, the VB342 Pro will locate and frame the area.

Should the presenter move out of the area, or someone talk be-

headshot and half body mode to adapt to any situation without compromise.

• Audio Fence: New and improved Audio Fence technology detects noises outside of the camera’s field of view and blocks them out, ensuring clear disruption-free remote meetings. This combines with

yond the area, the VB342 Pro will track the speaker and zoom to provide the best possible image.

• Beamforming Technology: High-Tech AVer Beamforming allows microphones to easily pick up and focus on voices in any meeting.

• Smart Gallery: Offers the remote site clear views of every participant, which enables AI face and body detection technology to crop participants’ faces. You can choose between

The all-in-one VB342 Pro comes with an integrated high-quality speaker and microphone, as well as an upgraded premium video bar, providing a quality video conferencing experience for all small to medium size meeting rooms.

Beamforming Technology to ensure resonant sound and clear participant voices.

The RRP of the VB342 Pro is £1049 plus VAT.

New ideas often arise from practice or from customer requirements. And this is how customer-specific solutions can be further developed into new products. For example, this was also the case with an application by Innlights Displaysolutions for the Centro in Oberhausen, reports Kolja Birkenbach.

Unlike the permanently installed LED parking guidance system for the Centro, the customer wanted large LEDs for use outside of the shopping centre for flexible positioning. The InnScreenPopUp25 combines the advantages of a permanently stationary solution with the option of changing the location at short notice.” This is possible with the calculation of a structural engineer for the structure of the InnScreen PopUp series.

The present test statics allow a height of up to five meters.

With this system statics, we can set up practically anywhere. The basis is a base plate with cast concrete weights, on which is a traverse for hanging LED walls up to a maximum

image height of 3 meters and a maximum image width of 2 meters.” With this technology, four LED pylons in the format of 2 x 2.5 meters on the Promenade.

The focus was on corona information for visitors. Information on how to evacuate the shopping mile was also prepared for conceivable emergencies and was available at any time.

LED modules from the InnScreen R3 HE and Q3 series with a pixel pitch of 3.91 millimetres were used for the high-resolution display. Particularly useful for the customer: the Innlights Remote Control application, Innlights RCA for short, with which the image content can be updated quickly at any time. The Innlights PopUp series is basically modular. With the 2S variant, any InnScreen LED module can be used: indoors up to a high-resolution 1.9 mm pixel pitch and outdoors from 5.9 mm to the finest resolution with 2.8 mm pixel pitch.

For an installation in zone 2 the ballast weight can be increased to 3 tons. This means that an

LED pylon including media technology has a maximum total weight of 4 tons. The LED modules are selected customer-specifically and depending on the location. The control and playback technology is built into the system and is supplied via a single 16 A CEE power connection. The technology is addressed via a secure wireless network to control and update the image content.

Centro Marketing was able to access the system securely at any time via the web interface and from any location. The LED pylons run independently and are equipped with a light sensor so that the LED pylons always provide the right image brightness during the day and at night. Based on the positive experience, Kolja Birkenbach announces the expansion of this new series: “We are already testing other pop-up elements.

We want to include these in the Innlights Rental Park in early summer 2022.”

Panasonic PT-FRQ60 1-Chip DLP Projector with 6,000lm brightness Panasonic has announced the availability of its new PTFRQ60 1-Chip DLP Projector with 6,000lm brightness designed to deliver stunning detail, colour and smooth motion for a wide variety of sectors, including offices, STEM classrooms, digital museums, and eSports entertainment attractions.

Panasonic has added Quad Pixel Drive to its proven 1-Chip DLP SOLID SHINE Laser technology to produce smooth, sharp and detailed 4K images for deeper content engagement. Smooth 240Hz image processing increases the sense of realism with fine textures resolved in grid-less images. Rich Colour Enhancer delivers accurate colours, faithfully reproducing content as the creator intended. Fast-paced action is clearly rendered at frame rates up to 240Hz/1080p with below 8ms latency.

In addition, the PT-FRQ60 is compatible with Panasonic’s ET-SWR10 Real-Time Tracking Projection Mapping System, a ready-to-use Software Developers Kit that enables projection onto fast-moving objects at up to 240 frames per second, expanding creative possibilities at theme parks, interactive museum exhibitions and more.

For convenient integration into 4K infrastructures, the PT-FRQ60 includes two CEC command compatible HDMI inputs enabling projector ON/ OFF from the source device,

while the single-cable DIGITAL LINK solution supports video and control-signal transmission over long distances. Flexible 2.0x optical zoom, V/H LensShift, and Geometric Adjustment featuring Free Grid enable image position adjustment and remove distortion without a PC. The PT-FRQ60 also ships with preactivated upgrade kits for Geometry Manager Pro[1] to automate edge-blending via camera, expand the range of screen adjustment, and add sophisticated masking capabilities.

For reliable low maintenance projection, Panasonic’s fetterless heat-pipe cooling system helps to maintain high image quality and enables 20,000

Panasonic has announced the availability of its new PT-FRQ60 1-Chip DLP Projector with 6,000lm brightness designed to deliver stunning detail, colour and smooth motion for a wide variety of sectors.

hours of maintenance-free projection. Multi Monitoring & Control Software streamlines fleet management and control, while optional Early Warning software prevents unexpected downtime by sending an alert before problems occur. The PTFRQ60 1-Chip DLP™ Projector is available immediately.

Unlike the permanently installed LED parking guidance system for the Centro, the customer wanted large LEDs for use outside of the shopping centre for flexible positioning. The InnScreenPopUp25 combines the advantages of a permanently stationary solution with the option of changing the location at short notice.”

P9 AV News May 2022

Technology News

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Technology News

Sony introduces new compact Lightware and NETGEAR Deliver New Solutions for the Future of 4K PTZ camera Sony expands its renowned PTZ camera line-up with the introduction of the new SRGX40UH. The camera adopts 4K Exmor R™ CMOS image sensor and delivers high-quality images at 4K[i] alongside powerful zoom capability with wide viewing angle, UVC and HDMI connectivity and will be available in Autumn 2022.

The camera is an ideal choice for remote communication and monitoring in a wide range

of markets which have seen strong growth in the last couple of years, such as corporate, education, healthcare, and more.

With simple functionality and interface connection, it’s easy to connect and use for live streaming video.

As an affordable 4K PTZ camera, the SRG-X40UH will deliver outstanding detail and high-quality imagery, natural color reproduction and high sensitivity that capture facial or other relevant details in remote communications situations, even in low light. In addition, oversampling from 4K will deliver excellent image quality even in FHD.

A powerful zoom up to 40x in FHD and 30x in 4K with the Clear Image Zoom technology[ii], combined with an approximately 70 degrees wide viewing angle will complement smooth and rapid PTZ movement with a ceiling mounting option means that this camera can capture important scenes in different locations, from small conference rooms to large auditoriums.

The SRG-X40UH, with its simple UVC and HDMI connections and PoE+ support, can be integrated into existing systems with minimum cabling, and remotely controlled through a VISCA/VISCA over IP command.

“Over the past two years, the world has witnessed and adapted to drastic changes in the way we work and learn.

Such circumstances have created a pressing demand for efficient remote communication that multiple users can access anytime anywhere with high reliability.” said Rob Meakin, Planning and Product Manager, Sony Professional Displays & Solutions. “At Sony, we’ve seen and driven the adoption of 4K, ensuring all customers can benefit from superior image quality.”

With over 20 years of technical expertise, the Sony range of PTZ cameras and remote cameras is now widely used for remote teaching and communication purposes at universities and hospitals, in corporate facilities as well as remote pro-

duction in event and broadcasting stations: Remote Communication in Corporate or Education settings From video conferences to video recording, the Sony PTZ cameras and remote cameras are reliable options that suit a wide range of teaching spaces and meeting areas. Silent and discreet, the new SRG camera is a stylish addition to any boardroom or teaching setting.

The cameras enhance teaching and collaborative learning through live streaming, connecting students and lecturers in real time across different campuses or homes, and with other colleges. 4K clarity also contributes to today’s increased demand for interactive discussions, streaming and recording lectures and classroom presentations for both live and future use.

Medical environments The SRG series is currently used in established healthcare facilities to remotely monitor patients and equipment to ensure optimum settings for patient care even under low light condition. The cameras also capture, manage and distribute high-quality footage of clinical procedures live from operating and treatment rooms to lecture halls in tertiary institutions for training and education purposes.

Hybrid Pro AV/IT Environment

Lightware Visual Engineering and NETGEAR are streamlining the process of merging traditional pro AV and emerging IT environments to create seamless user experiences across a range of commercial applications. The two companies are working together to create a repository of intuitive resources and documentation highlighting how their respective products can be seamlessly integrated to remove much of the

complexity users face during hybrid AV/IT installations.

By working together, Lightware and NETGEAR are addressing one of the biggest challenges faced by system designers and network infrastructure specialists: evaluating the hundreds of available IT and/or AV options to select the right devices that reliably work together.

This collaboration is designed to explore the potential joint applications using Lightware and NETGEAR technologies.

Lightware’s AV-over-IP devices, UBEX and VINX solutions work together with NETGEAR’S

switches helping users get the highest performance from their systems, whether their goal is to find new devices or to easily configure existing ones. NETGEAR’S full line of M4300, M4500, and the new M4250 series switches provide a range of configurations along with powerful PoE options. All are fully compatible with Lightware’s devices, including the UBEX and VINX AV-over-IP systems.

technology behind the scenes.”

Both companies have complementary resources that benefit their mutual customers.

NETGEAR has a dedicated team of AV-over-IP professionals available to assist system designers and end-users with building infrastructures that fit their needs. Lightware’s support engineers are also readily available and offer easy-to-use, downloadable configuration files specifically created for

“The AV industry is increasingly relying on existing IT infrastructure for transmitting high-resolution video signals, rapidly accelerating the need for new signal management devices that are compatible with these environments,” said Gergely Vida, CEO & founder of Lightware. “Our goal is to give customers reliable, tried and tested solutions when it comes to building systems that offer the best of both the pro AV and IT worlds, making life easier for end-users and letting them focus on their business, not the

NETGEAR switches.

“Lightware has a proven track record of seamlessly integrating and operating with the most widely accepted networking equipment on the market,” said John Henkel, Director of SMB Product Marketing at NETGEAR. “Lightware and NETGEAR devices also have a long history of being successfully used together in diverse projects and installations.

We’re looking forward to continuing this collaboration and working together to drive the AV/IT industries forward.”

P11 AV News May 2022

Application News

Law Firm uses hybrid conferencing to protect client confidentiality Video conferencing plays a valuable daily role at established Swedish law firm Ahlgrens Advokatbyrå, keeping clients and colleagues connected wherever they are based. Blending broad legal expertise with high availability, client confidentiality is crucial too especially when sensitive information is being discussed. The practice was founded in the 1940’s and its offices in Umeå and Skellefteå in Northern Sweden are where 20 people use high quality conferencing systems from pioneering manufacturer Konftel.

Ironically Konftel created the world’s first dedicated conference phone more than 30 years

ago also from Umea.

The law firm’s video portfolio is spearheaded by Konftel’s C50800 Hybrid systems which provide a valuable ‘hybrid’ facility of combining regular calls

with online video meetings.

This premium video collaboration solution, for medium to really large meeting rooms, delivers outstanding image and audio quality. The package combines the Konftel Cam50 PTZ conference camera and the Konftel 800 conference phone with the Konftel OCC Hub for one cable connection.

Lawyer and partner Petter Mörk, explained: “We chose the Konftel C50800 Hybrid because the system is easy to operate and very flexible. Crucially it is possible to make regular calls when connected to a video meeting, which is very beneficial. It is common for one

or more parties to want to participate by phone, not least in the meetings where we use an interpreter. In addition, online meetings can be less appropriate in some cases where very

sensitive information is being dealt with. These may be meetings where trade secrets are divulged or where sensitive personal data is to be discussed, so we use traditional calls for maximum security.”

He continued: “We at Ahlgrens Advokatbyrå work under the watchwords Sustainable Law. For us, Sustainable Law is about thinking a little further.

To find legal solutions that work both today and in the future.

It is about seeing our clients' needs and using our know-how to provide the best possible conditions both in business and in disputes and in the different events of life. However, sus-

shifts and the turn of the millennium. We are proud of our long history while recognizing that the present and the future place new demands. Through Sustainable Law, we take responsibility for our operations, use new technology and reduce our environmental impact.”

He highlighted: “Together with access to quality video meetings, we can offer broad legal expertise and high availability.” The company’s two award-winning Konftel C50800 Hybrid video kits were bought in Spring 2020. Image, sound quality and ease of use have earned plenty of plaudits. Petter added: “We use the conference systems on a daily basis.

You just have to plug in and go!

They enable us to interact with clients who, due to geographical distance, for example, are unable to attend physical meetings. During the pandem-

ic, the systems have allowed us to continue working from home when unable to go into the office. We have operations in two locations and we use the systems for meetings between the offices, but also in cases where for the client it’s easier to report to one office, even though the responsible lawyer works at the other location. The systems are used regularly, both for internal and external meetings.”

Furthermore the firm’s sustainable ethos is matched perfectly by Konftel who became the first manufacturer in its sector to secure Climate Neutral certification. This means all greenhouse gas emissions have been offset, across all aspects of the business, from manufacturing and product packaging to transportation.

Konftel continues to cut impact at source too. “Sustainability is part of our DNA in many dif-

ferent ways and it’s reassuring to know that the Konftel conferencing equipment we use is sustainable too, helping protect the planet as well as ensuring we cut down on unnecessary business travel.” Petter has no hesitation in recommending the Konftel equipment. He concluded: “Absolutely, we are very pleased. I find it difficult to see that any user would be dissatisfied with the ease of use or quality of the video meetings. Ahlgrens Advokatbyrå has a strong heritage and a bright future, with video conferencing from Konftel playing an increasingly prominent role.”

Video conferencing plays a valuable daily role at established Swedish law firm Ahlgrens Advokatbyrå, keeping clients and colleagues connected wherever they are based.

tainable law is not just a matter of legal expertise. It is also a question of us wanting to be a long-term sustainable company. Ahlgrens Advokatbyrå has stood firm through both decade

d&b’s SL-Series supports UK rapper Dave Following the release of his critically acclaimed second album, ‘We’re All Alone In This Together’ in 2021, London-based hip-hop artist Dave embarked on an extensive UK arena tour in March 2022. The dates included two nights at London’s 02, at which d&b’s SL-Series provided the clarity and power needed to support the dynamic shows.

“I’ve been involved with Dave since his Game Over EP tour in 2018,” says Charles Bidwell, FOH Engineer. This is our 9th tour together and it’s been a really significant step up to an arena show - but as always, my goal remains the same. I need to accurately represent his studio recordings in a weighty live environment, the audience are there to hear every detail with impact, so clarity and headroom from the PA is paramount.

I want everyone to leave having understood every bar – Dave’s

London-based hip-hop artist Dave embarked on an extensive UK arena tour in March 2022. The dates included two nights at London’s 02, at which d&b’s SL-Series provided the clarity and power needed to support the dynamic shows.

lyrical content, word play and delivery is world class, so both audience and artist deserve that.”

Bidwell has long relied on d&b audiotechnik to deliver the kind of clarity and power he needed for the arena shows, and this time he opted for 16 GSL12 3-way line array loudspeakers for the main hangs, with 14 KSL12 loudspeakers for sides, while front fill was handled by a sextet of Y10P point source loudspeakers. No less than 20 SL-SUBs handled the deep lows required for Dave’s hip-hop stylings and a further eight KSL loudspeakers were employed in each of three delay hangs to provide ample coverage for the large capacity venues. The d&b inventory for the tour was supplied by d&b partner SSE Audio, part of Solotech. The KSL and GSL systems are part of the d&b SL-Series, the only modern line array

system able to achieve horizontal directivity control over the entire audio spectrum. Thanks to its impressive cardioid dispersion pattern, the SL-Series delivers quieter stages for performers, maximum clarity and power for the audience, and minimal noise for those beyond.

“There’s an awful lot happening on-stage during this show,” explains Bidwell, “Dave, who raps, sings, plays piano and now guitar, a live band that consists of drums, bass, guitar, keyboards and six backing vocalists. All supported by 16 channels of playback and enormous video wall interludes. I need to glue all of these musical elements together into a show that flows perfectly from track to track and then make

continuedon page 14

P13 AV News May 2022

Application News Continue from page 13

d&b’s SL-Series supports UK rapper Dave

sure that Dave’s vocal is placed front-and-centre. With the SL-Series, there’s a real sonic transparency out of the box and the workflow is fantastic, so it makes a tour of this scale as straightforward as possible.

The ArrayCalc simulation and R1 remote control software are extremely powerful and flexible tools. The PA flyers were using the ArrayCalc Viewer app on iPhone to quickly reference the ArrayCalc design specifications on the fly. It works brilliantly, so once everything is designed correctly in ArrayCalc, when you unmute the SL-Series you’re immediately presented with the clarity and raging power that d&b are known for.”

The ArrayCalc Viewer app provides data such as splay

an efficient and user-friendly approach to rigging, and supporting the system setup as a whole. “The integration of the system and the software is key to delivering the kind of consistency we need on a tour of this scale,” Bidwell continues. “It’s one thing being able to get one venue to sound great, particularly if you’re doing multiple nights there. But to be able to move around the country and know that the experience you’re giving the audience doesn’t change is really important. I trust the SL-Series to deliver and that’s a huge thing - there’s so much else going on that being completely confident in the system I’m using is crucial.”

The logistics of an arena tour mean that the practicalities of

lift them on and off the trucks with no messing around and were often the first department finished and ready to go. We ran the GSLs in compression mode and the arrays were very quick to get set and fly. They go up very fast, which is always really welcome on big tours like this where there’s so much going on at each venue.”

Summing up his thoughts on the tour, Bidwell was quick to point out that, “It really doesn’t matter where you use d&b, the core experience is the same.

Incredible power balanced with exceptional clarity, no matter the setting - so it’s easy to scale up and work in the way that suits you. The support from d&b is unmatched too.

The company really under-

angle, amplifier channel ID and cabling information, flying frame height and the height of the lowest edge, frame angle, horizontal aiming, Pickpoints, weight and load status. Any change to the system design can be distributed to each user immediately, ensuring

rigging and flying the PA are also an important consideration. “The fact that you get so much power from a relatively compact form factor with the GSL boxes makes them very “tour-friendly”,” says system tech Rich Kemp. “It’s pretty remarkable really. We could fork-

stands the relational side of the music business and always go above and beyond with training and advice. Alongside the performance of the SL-Series, that really made for a thoroughly rewarding tour.”

Christie laser projectors light up Red Fort Christie laser projectors have been deployed for a spectacular projection mapping show at the historic Red Fort in Old Delhi, a 17th century monument and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, to commemorate 75 years of India’s independence. Titled “Matrubhumi” or motherland in Hindi, the 30-minute visual spectacle made its debut on March 25 as one of the major highlights of the Red Fort Festival, which showcases India’s rich history and a kaleidoscopic diversity in art, heritage and culture.

For this performance, the iconic Lahori Gate and its surrounding walls are illuminated by 19 Christie D20WU-HS 1DLP® laser projectors installed and commissioned by Christie’s longstanding partner, MSS World, known for numerous high-profile, large-scale projects across India. The show’s mesmerizing contents were

designed by Knownsense Studios, which specializes in content creation for 3D projection mapping displays. “The Red Fort is a world-famous landmark and its main entrance – Lahori Gate – is of great significance as this is the spot where the Indian national flag was raised for the first time on August 15, 1947, to proclaim our country’s independence,” said Pratik Wadhwa, chief executive officer, MSS World. “It is therefore an honour for us to be involved in this remarkable projection mapping show and we have pulled out all the stops to deliver a highly engaging and fascinating multi-sensorial experience.”

With its high brightness of 20,000 lumens, enhanced colour performance and reliability, the Christie D20WU-HS is MSS World’s preferred choice to light up the Red Fort’s massive 33-meter (108-feet) high

P14 AV News May 2022

Application News

DiGiCo consoles at the Museum of Contemporary Art Chicago

red sandstone walls. This project follows the highly successful deployment of over 40 D20WU-HS projectors at Vijay Chowk for the first-ever projection mapping show during the Beating Retreat Ceremony in January, which elevated the scale and solemnity of the annual event to new heights.

“The Christie D20WU-HS projectors are housed in projection towers overlooking the Lahori Gate and surrounding walls. Its compact, lightweight

has been chosen to illuminate the legendary Red Fort for this highly anticipated cultural extravaganza, which also marks our 100th permanent projection mapping installation in India. We are immensely grateful to all our partners who stood by us steadfastly all these years and placed their trust in our products to deliver these awe-inspiring visual experiences.”

The show received such an overwhelming response from

UHD, the Christie HS Series offers a powerful, reliable and cost-effective option for almost any high-use application. Setting benchmarks in brightness, colour accuracy, power requirements, and form factor, the HS Series pushes the envelope of what’s possible with 1DLP technology.

Colours look natural and trueto-life thanks to Christie BoldColor Technology while the onboard Christie Twist warping and blending engine and op-

Christie laser projectors have been deployed for a spectacular projection mapping show at the historic Red Fort in Old Delhi, a 17th century monument and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. and omnidirectional capabilities provided us with a lot of installation flexibility, reducing the on-site complexities.

As a result, we were able to confidently deliver this oneof-its-kind, large-scale visual and cultural spectacle on time for the show’s inauguration,” Wadhwa added.

Rishubh Nayar, sales director for India, Enterprise, Christie, commented, “We are delighted that the Christie HS Series

the public that the organizers of the Red Fort Festival, which include the Ministry of Culture and Ministry of Tourism, have since announced that “Matrubhumi” will become a permanent fixture at this venue for the next two years, so that visitors from India and beyond can also enjoy this captivating light and sound show. Ranging in brightness levels from 7,00020,000 lumens and resolutions including WUXGA, HD and 4K

tional Christie Mystique automated camera-based alignment tools make setup, alignment, recalibration and maintenance of multi-projector systems quick and easy. With their compact and lightweight form factor and omnidirectional capabilities, HS Series projectors are perfect for challenging, space-limited installations.

This past summer, the MCA acquired and installed a pair of DiGiCo S21 audio mixing consoles. With consulting and purchase provided by Second City Sound & Communications and integrated by SCS’s Gerry Formicola and Brad Galvin working with the MCA Production team, the S21s now reside in the museum’s Edlis Neeson Theatre. The desks are each paired with a DMI-Dante card for networking, plus three DiGiCo A168 stage boxes also connected via Dante.

One console now serves as the front-of-house desk for the Neeson Theatre and is further fitted with a DMI-AMM (Automatic Mic Mixing) card.

The second console is situated in the theatre’s audio/video control room where it’s used to mix streams of the events and presentations originating in the venue, and can also be called upon for monitor-mixing work when needed.

“The museum has moved to a visitor model with people inside the museum and theatre but much of what takes place here is also available via streaming,” says Matthew Test, the MCA’s Audio-Visual Manager. “Most of the in-person events are simultaneously streamed, and the S21 in the Audio-Visual room gives us the flexibility to create a unique mix for the virtual audience in addition to the one from the S21 at front of house.”

In researching the equipment for the Theatre’s audio update, Test says the staff was looking for consoles that could be easily networked together and that offered versatility, flexibility, and impactful sound, but that were also small and compact, to minimize seat loss at front of house and be able to be easily moved and reconnected for other missions. The S21 checked all of those boxes, he says.

The MCA production team discovered the S21 as a result of a colleague watching a documentary about the hit musical Hamilton that mentioned the DiGiCo console used for its sound. “That led us down that path, and we learned that the S21 was everything a museum like the MCA needed,” he says.

“It was affordable, yet still very powerful and flexible, and had the added advantage of being able to be integrated into the museum’s existing LAN infrastructure.”

and they get routed to the matrix and then sent to the LCR and sub speaker stacks,” Clapp adds. “So there are a lot of flexible routing options. And also the ability to create presets and save them as starting points for different projects. That’s worked well for many kinds of events, from small panels to large-scale shows.”

Audra Jacot’s domain at the MCA’s Edlis Neeson Theatre is mostly video, but even there she’s found the S21 to be helpful. Occasionally, one

This past summer, the MCA acquired and installed a pair of DiGiCo S21 audio mixing consoles.

As the theatre’s primary frontof-house engineer, Audio Visual Technician Sam Clapp has his own reasons for appreciating the S21. “What I like best about the DiGiCo in general is how clean and easily understandable its user interfaces are, as well as the fact that they just look good—very sleek and attractive with cool touchscreens,” he says. “Perfect for a museum of contemporary art.” Clapp points out that he uses virtually all of the S21’s features, including onboard EQ and compression. “And for someone who learned audio from working on a DAW, it’s so easy to transition to.”

He adds that he regularly uses the FOH S21’s aux sends for the live streams when not using the S21 in the video control room, setting them up to mirror the main FOH mix, an approach he says is more efficient for some types of shows. Conversely, Test likes that he can use the Dante network to pull pre-fader inputs from the stage boxes to both boards simultaneously, noting that “they can still talk to each other, which is a nice feature for gain-tracking.”

“We also use a group system to collect channels with similar EQ and compression needs, like handheld mics and lavs,

of the consoles’ mix engineers will step away for a moment, and she’s found that she can easily and confidently step in.

“I can immediately see that if it’s purple, it’s an aux feed, and if it’s blue, it’s an input,” she says. “And if I’m nearby and someone needs a monitor level moved up or down, I can see what channel they need to adjust. It’s laid out so intuitively, and it just looks great,” prompting Test to add, “We’re a contemporary art museum, so we have a reputation that we have to maintain. Thanks, DiGiCo!”

AVNovember News May2021 2022 P17 AVP15 News

Feature

Advertorial LEDStudio

LED versus LCD – The ultimate battle for the title

Market-leading design allow The EDGE to evolve as pixel pitches continue to reduce, enabling technologies to be swapped out without changes to infrastructure.

Prepare yourself for the hotly anticipated heavyweight battle that our industry has been waiting for.

In the blue corner, we have LCD, a well-established display technology that has been pivotal to the evolution of large format displays. LCD has become an established champion in the professional AV arena without many challengers, from single screens in varying sizes to scalable video wall solutions until now…

In the red corner, introducing The EDGE from The LED Studio, a 55” LED panel that really packs a punch. Already holding the title of the world’s first true LED video wall solution, The EDGE offers a long-awaited direct replacement for LCD in the arenas of installation time, serviceability, performance and sustainability.

Let’s get ready to rumble!

Round One: Panel Size Traditionally LCD displays have been quicker and easier to install due to their larger size compared to LED modules. The EDGE 55” panels, however, are the largest single diecast LED cabinets available on the market and have been designed to rival the popular LCD panel size.

Each cabinet incorporates eight LED modules, equating to approximately four times fewer components than a conventional LED cabinet. As a result, this reduces power consumption, installation time and global shipping costs.

In terms of aesthetics, the Edge 16:9 cabinets deliver seamless display configurations featuring various shapes and sizes from 55 inches upwards, offering an outstanding visual display solution.

is optimised with colour refinement to ensure the displays capture attention without sacrificing finer details.

This remains consistent across the product lifecycle of over 100,000 hours.

Round Three: Installation and Maintenance

The EDGE from The LED Studio, a 55” LED panel that really packs a punch. Already holding the title of the world’s first true LED video wall solution!

Break free from complex bracketry! The lightweight EDGE displays weigh just 15kg and have a depth of just 58mm. Moreover, these can be directly wall mounted for quick installation resulting in an easy, seamless and quick integration into any environment.

This significantly reduces installation time and costs. EDGE panels are also serviceable from the front, allowing direct access to critical components for convenient maintenance.

Round Two: Colour Uniformity and Range

Round Four: Unique futureproof technology

The EDGE has been designed to achieve superior image quality above and beyond that of an LCD display. This includes a higher dynamic range, extreme brightness and a vivid colour gamut for lifelike colour reproduction.

Colour enhancing LED technology with advanced purity ensures a wide colour gamut. A proprietary ultra-low reflection black surface technology ensures intense black levels for the ultimate contrast and dynamic range across both areas of high and low brightness.

The EDGE displays are vastly brighter than LCD, designed to deliver a crisp, clear viewing experience without fading or distortion in any ambient light, whether day or night, bright or dark. Enhanced peak brightness

Market-leading design allow The EDGE to evolve as pixel pitches continue to reduce, enabling technologies to be swapped out without changes to infrastructure.

Pixel pitches can be updated and reduced simply by changing the modules. This is made possible because each module, no matter what the original pixel pitch, can fit the 55” cabinet. This means a 2.5mm pixel pitch display, for example, can easily be upgraded to a 1.2mm by simply refreshing the panels.

P18 AV News May 2022

The EDGE is one of the most sustainable and energy-efficient LED displays available. The advanced design keeps heat away from the individual LEDs and dissipates it through superior heat management techniques.

Round Five: Sustainability The EDGE is one of the most sustainable and energy-efficient LED displays available. The advanced design keeps heat away from the individual LEDs and dissipates it through superior heat management techniques.

As a result, using this state-of-the-art design reduces power consumption by up to 75%, or just 153w per panel, without decreasing brightness or contrast ratio.

And the winner is …

We’ll leave that up to you to decide! The EDGE is an innovative LED display design that is aiding the transition away from LCD video walls for a visual solution that can transform boardrooms, command and control facilities, retail spaces and out of home environments.

For more information, contact: sales@theledstudio.co.uk

ISE 2022 - Stop press

ISE 2022 – stop press As we write, there is just a couple of weeks to do before ISE 2022 opens its doors to exhibition visitors. Any last-minute announcements can be seen on our web site at avnewsonline.com or on our social media channels. At the event, we will have a full team available on the show floor or in our dedicated media suite at the Fira de Barcelona where we be pleased to meet you and share a cup of coffee.

cies with an installed universal SIM card that can connect anywhere in the UK and European Union (including Switzerland and Norway). In addition, customers are provided a choice of data plans custom-designed for digital signage and exclusive to BrightSign.

Eve of show announcements Avocor is exhibiting several

new innovations at ISE 2022 including the full Google Meet Series One product portfolio.

ISE will be the first time, since the strategic partnership with Google was announced in August 2021, that both products will be showcased side-by-side.

“ISE is the meeting place for the brightest ideas, smartest people, and most life-changing innovations to come together a create real, direction change in every market sector. We can’t wait to debut Google Meet Series One at ISE 2022 in Barcelona.” Said Scott Hix, CEO, Avocor. “With Google Meet Series One Desk 27 and Board 65, we’re now able to offer everyone meeting equity through shared devices for team meeting spac-

BrightSign, LLC will be ex-

hibiting the industry’s most competitive, complete line-up of digital signage players, for the first time running from the recently updated BSN.cloud, BrightSign’s cloud-based digital signage network management platform (ISE, Barcelona, stand 6H420). The BrightSign stand will feature the full range from BrightSign XT offering the very best in features and technology for enterprise applications, to the entry-level LS, a commercial-grade signage player that’s a far superior alternative to consumer devices.

Commenting, Jeff Hastings, CEO of BrightSign said, “In 2021, in the midst of the pan-

es and a personal device for your desktop – elevating the ability to see, hear and participate from anywhere - helping customers to connect and succeed in the evolved modern workplace.”

Visitors to the Avocor booth will also see its recently launched E Series and the Teams-certified W Series. Available in four sizes, ranging from 55” to 86”, the E Series features optically bonded glass in a 4K IR interactive display format. This impressive combination delivers a smooth, leading-edge touch technology display solution at an exceptional value – and is ideal for all sizes of office, classroom, meeting room and huddle space applications.

The W Series is ideal for focus

and small meeting rooms, corporate and home offices. Both the Teams-certified 65" WCD AVW-6555 and the all-in-one AVW-5555 interactive touch screens offer an integrated, high-quality conference camera with a microphone array and audio optimized for use with UC platforms, including Microsoft Teams and Zoom. You can visit Avocor in hall 2, booth 2-F200/2-E250 to discover the revolutionary interactive display technologies for the enterprise that are shaping the way we work, connect and learn.

demic, we shipped our two millionth media player, just four years after hitting the one-million mark. Visitors to ISE will be able to see for themselves why.

BrightSign players deliver world class performance and our entry level players beat anything else available at a comparable price in terms of reliability, features and performance. Our top line players stand comparison with any player available at any price.”

Visitors will be able to see demonstrations of the BSN. cloud which sits at the core of the BrightSign ecosystem, enabling free cloud-connectivity to all BrightSign players for easy, secure player and con-

tent management across any network-connected digital signage. BrightSign has invested heavily in the platform, and it is now more robust than ever with a host of new features. These include support for BrightSign Mobile and streamlined single set-up for custom configurations with partner CMS providers. Real time player control functionality of BSN.cloud include reporting of player network health over the previous 24 hours.

BrightSign Mobile, which is now available on the European market, will also be featured at ISE. The affordable new all-in-one solution easily connects media players to the cloud in situations where traditional methods of network connectivity are not available.

The solution is an accessory for BrightSign players that includes a low-profile regional USB modem operating at European cellular network frequen-

Avocor is exhibiting several new innovations at ISE 2022 including the full Google Meet Series One product portfolio

BrightSign, LLC will be exhibiting the industry’s most competitive, complete line-up of digital signage players, for the first time running from the recently updated BSN.cloud, BrightSign’s cloud-based digital signage network management platform

Omron Electronic Components Europe will showcase sensor solutions to enhance digital signage installations and systems at ISE in Barcelona (Stand 2R430) including its human vision privacy-sensitive facial recognition technology, as well as people detection and environmental sensors. The Omron team will be available during the event to provide all the required information and answer questions about its expanding range of sensors.

Centrepiece of Omron’s presentation will be the HVC-2 image sensors which can detect faces, facial features and human

developer can add face recognition functionality to a system without the need to understand the algorithms or the optical design. No personal or private data is stored, so these devices do not compromise the subject’s privacy.

Omron will also be offering live demos of the Omron D6T-32L thermal sensor with people detection algorithm, which can reliably detect people and objects in a wide area across its 90.0° by 90.0° field of view.

These characteristics combined with the facial recognition features of the HVC-P2 and the “mechanical eye” capabilities

bodies – even estimating age and gender of the humans in the captured images. Using these modules, any embedded

Omron’s presentation at ISE will include HVC-2 image sensors which can detect faces, facial features and human bodies – even estimating age and gender of the humans in the captured images

Utelogy Corporation is returning to the ISE Show in 2022 with a full exhibit planned to highlight its new product innovations and explosive company growth. Utelogy is coming off consecutive years of significant increases in YoY revenues and bookings of more than 270% as its international expansion continues. During that time, Utelogy has published a number of significant product releases that will be featured at ISE, including High Availabil-

ity, U-Manage Analytic Tiles, Microsoft Teams Integration, and enhanced cybersecurity measures.

The company will also highlight its Utelligence program for industry standards around security and agnosticity, as well as the “Utelogy beyond the conference room” initiative. This program is designed to integrate its platform with other elements of the workplace such as booking systems for deeper analytics, IoT, and

of the TOF sensor module offer advanced possibilities in signage and smart buildings, as well as in occupancy monitoring within buildings.

Visitors to the stand will also find detailed information about Omron’s digital pressure and environment sensors such as the D6F-PH Digital Pressure and 2JCIE Environment Sensors. Combined with the D6T32L, they enhance the quality and efficiency of HVAC systems through accurate sensing of air flow, temperature, humidity and human presence.

BYOD to support the ever-growing hybrid workforce. “Utelogy is responding to the needs of an increasingly connected and technology-reliant global workspace by delivering cost-saving solutions that elevate user experiences through insights and analytics,” said Kevin Morrison, Utelogy CEO. “We are also continually growing our global partner network to meet the evolving demands of our enterprise customers.”

Morrison added, “Our vision

P18 AV News December 2021 P19 AV News May 2022

ISE 2022 Preview has always been to provide a toolset that delivers actionable intelligence on how businesses use their technology, how it performs, and how the workplace is utilized. This data can then be used to make better and more informed decisions.

In 2022, Utelogy will add new features to its platform so customers can take an even deeper dive into how they visualize and use their data. “Focusing on the voice of the customer has given us the ability to grow Utelogy more than 270% from 2020 to 2021,” said Morrison.

“This falls in line with the recent AV Service Management trends report by *Futuresource that predicts a 400% growth rate in the next four years.”

Remote and hybrid workspaces are becoming the rule rather than the exception. Enterprises are transforming their pre-pandemic office spaces into sophisticated collaborative spaces with enhanced videoconferencing, teamwork areas, dedicated meeting spaces, and large event spaces. The management of these new rooms and systems is shifting from AV-based to IT-focused, with an emphasis on networked systems offering performance, quality, affordability, and easy collaboration. The employee experience should be first-class regardless of whether they are working in an office or from home.

“Organizations are looking for the right toolset of technology and services,” said Jonathan Mangnall, Managing Director, EMEA, for Utelogy. “The Utelogy platform turns the support model from reactive to proactive, resonating with companies that are more geographically dispersed than ever and focused on the employee experience.” Utelogy is seeing a shift from a traditional product “break/fix” approach to an “intelligent and automated” methodology that takes into account the Total Experience (TX). Managed services models are starting to offer comprehensive solutions combining AV devices, software, and exceptional proactive customer support. These changes occurring in the global workspace require support organizations to adapt their logistical operations as well as their business mindset, presenting challenges but also significant growth opportunities.

Utelogy is well-equipped to support customers regardless of country or region. Significant areas of growth range from its home base in the United States to key international markets across Europe, Africa, the Middle East, and Asia Pacific. The company enhances its global customer support through a worldwide network of more than 40 regional partners and solutions providers with specific expertise in IT-centric system deployments and management.

Utelogy’s ability to scale, regardless of requirements or budget, makes it the ideal platform for organizations of any size. The Utelogy platform is based on an open archi-

tecture that is hardware- and software-agnostic, allowing for greater compatibility and integration between AV/UC devices from many manufacturers. In 2021, Utelogy widely expanded its integration with the latest technologies from current partners and vendors

such as Logitech, Poly Barco, Lightware Visual Engineering, Yealink, Microsoft, Mersive Technologies, Jabra, Cisco and many others.

Visit Utelogy at stand 2C415 in the Unified Communication and Education hall.

Kevin Morrison, Utelogy CEO: “We are also continually growing our global partner network to meet the evolving demands of our enterprise customers.”

Clear-Com will have a presence at the first Barcelona-based Integrated Systems Europe (ISE) show from May 10 – 13, exhibiting on Booth #7M925.

ISE brings together the leading technology innovators and solutions providers of the AV industry, creating an exciting platform for Clear-Com to showcase solutions for the live market and other diverse market applications.

Clear-Com will be demonstrating their latest innovations including Arcadia Central Station, FreeSpeak Edge Base Station, Station-IC Virtual Desktop Client, and the latest software/firmware update to the Eclipse HX Digital Matrix platform — alongside the company’s award-winning solutions

fering a base level of 32 IP ports which can be expanded to up to 96 IP ports (and beyond in future releases) as needed.

From the Broadway stage to a local performing arts centre to the largest and most complex live events, Arcadia is ideally suited for a wide variety of applications, in part due to its flexible licensing-based model.

“This is truly a platform designed for future expansion,” explains Product Manager, Kari Eythorsson. “We will be demoing the highly anticipated Arcadia integration with HelixNet®, and if you’re at the show, you don’t want to miss it!”

Also available for demonstration on the booth will be the FreeSpeak Edge Base Station, an IP base station that supports

DTEN will feature the new DTEN ONboard at Integrated Systems Europe 2022 (ISE), as well as its complete line of all-in-one, video-first solutions. Conference attendees will experience first-hand how DTEN is advancing the hybrid workplace with breakthrough collaboration devices, meeting room controllers, and workspace schedulers. DTEN leaders will also present an engaging session on the evolving workplace and the solutions to seamlessly connect teams across locations. ISE is scheduled for May 10 - 13 at Fira de Barcelona, Gran Vía.

New products will be on display at the DTEN Exhibit Hall Booth, 2C400: • DTEN ONboard, the shared whiteboard perfected for the hybrid workplace. DTEN ONboard gives remote and in-office participants equal access to its digital canvas; promotes collaboration before, during and after meetings with its persistent functionality optimized for the new, feature-rich Zoom Whiteboard release.

• DTEN Mate, the new wireless controller that works with any Zoom Rooms Device. DTEN Mate makes managing meeting logistics easier: schedule a meeting, share a screen, and control the camera from your chair, in full camera view, remaining entirely visible to remote attendees.

• DTEN D7 Dual 75” provides

a more immersive meeting experience. Extend the DTEN experience to larger meeting spaces: whiteboard and annotate on one display and see remote participants on the other.

“DTEN is thrilled to be back in person sharing our all-inone, video-first solutions,” says Doug Remington, General Manager and Head of DTEN Sales EMEA. “In addition to new products, we’ll be demonstrating new features and applications, such as Zoom Smart Gallery, Guest Join for Microsoft Teams and other platforms, Workspace Reservation, and Zoom Rooms Kiosk Mode.”

DTEN will be also hosting two events at ISE: • Educational session on “The Evolution of Work: Creating Flexible and Engaging Hybrid Workspaces.” Get real-world insights on how companies are creating productive, collabo-

Once again taking up its place at Integrated Systems Europe (ISE), leading LED processor manufacturer, Brompton Technology, will be demonstrating the rapid advancements it has made in LED processing technology since its last appearance at the show in 2019.

Brompton’s newly designed stand will include an LED screen dedicated to High Dynamic Range (HDR) and accu-

optimise the image on the screen, are becoming an essential component in the process.

Brompton HDR, along with its enabling technology Dynamic Calibration and Hydra, an all-in-one industrial solution that incorporates all the measurement instruments and processing required for panel measurements to enable Dynamic Calibration, will also be on display.

Clear-Com will be demonstrating their latest innovations including Arcadia Central Station, FreeSpeak Edge Base Station, Station-IC Virtual Desktop Client, and the latest software/firmware update to the Eclipse HX Digital Matrix platform — alongside the company’s award-winning solutions including FreeSpeak II, LQ Series of IP Interfaces, and the Agent-IC Mobile App. including FreeSpeak II, LQ Series of IP Interfaces, and the Agent-IC Mobile App. “ISE has grown in importance for us over the years, and at this point it’s a critical platform for us to connect with a wide variety of market segments, including live events, installation, theme parks, sports venues -and really more than I can list here,” comments Clear-Com President, Bob Boster. “We are looking forward to reconnecting with this disparate audience in the show’s new home of Barcelona.”

A main feature on the booth will be the award-winning Arcadia Central Station. Designed with input from Clear-Com’s extensive global live sound user base, Arcadia is a scalable IP intercom platform that integrates wired and digital wireless partyline systems along with third-party Dante devices in a single rack unit. The system can be expanded to meet varying production needs, of-

4P20 AV News May 2022

the full range of FreeSpeak digital wireless intercom solutions encompassing multiple wireless frequency bands (1.9 GHz, 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz), as well as third-party Dante devices. IPbased intercoms have become increasingly critical as remote and hybrid productions have become the defacto standard.

Clear-Com’s LQ Series of IP Interfaces, Agent-IC mobile app and Station-IC virtual desktop client are all ideally suited to accommodate any number of modern workflows and will be highlighted as part of ClearCom’s presence at the show.

“We have a lot of new developments to share at the show— projects, software updates and new product features—and we look forward to seeing you faceto-face again. People who know me know I'm always good for a fun story, and now I have two years of them stored up. Stop by our stand and let's swap stories over a drink!” concludes Senior VP of Sales, Chris Willis.

rate colour reproduction, a cen- Tessera v3.2 already added Brompton’s newly designed stand will include an LED screen dedicated to High Dynamic Range (HDR) and accurate colour reproduction, a centrally positioned LED display demonstrating the company’s latest software developments, along with a product display area and private meeting space. trally positioned LED display demonstrating the company’s latest software developments, along with a product display area and private meeting space.

With the increasing uptake of Virtual Production by multiple sectors of the industry including product launches, and corporate and live streamed events, the features in Brompton’s Tessera software, which offer an ever-increasing level of control, including a wide gamut of colour and image controls that allow users to correct and

ShutterSync, Frame Remapping, and 3D LUT Import, with Pomfort Livegrade and Assimilate integration. Visitors to the stand will now be able to experience the capabilities of Brompton’s latest updates, Tessera v3.3 software, which includes massive enhancements to virtual production workflows such as PureTone, Operating Modes, on-screen tracking markers and support of ACEScg colour gamut, all of which put the emphasis on creative choice and control.

rative work environments that meet both business requirements and employee needs.

Remington will co-present with Scott Krueckeberg, Head of Strategic Alliances at DTEN. Scheduled for 7:20pm(CEST) on Tuesday, May 10, this informative session is part of the Smart Workplace Summit within ISE; additional registration fees apply.

• DTEN guests can attend ISE for free by registering with Invitation Code GVMPRF4D at https://www.iseurope.org. Attendees can save 50% on the Smart Workplace Summit as well, using Code LUFV3IHR at https://www.iseurope.org/register.php.

DTEN will feature the new DTEN ONboard at Integrated Systems Europe 2022 (ISE), as well as its complete line of all-in-one, video-first solutions.

The product display area, meanwhile, will showcase Brompton’s range of Tessera LED processors, including ideal rental workhorse S8 and the flagship SX40, with the all-important XD Data Distribution Unit, which works alongside the SX40 to keep cabling as simple as possible for any scale of event.

“We are delighted to be back at one of the most important events in the European tradeshow calendar,” says Dries Vermeulen, Business Development Manager – Europe for Brompton. “We have been working hard over the past two years and have developed significant advances in our LED processing capabilities. We’re proud of what our team has achieved, and we’re excited to be able to show Brompton’s latest solutions to our European customers.” Visit Brompton Technology on Stand 3B850 at FIRA Barcelona from 10 – 13 May, 2022.

Continued on page 22

Barcelona is the New Home of Pro AV. ISE is the world’s leading show for professional audiovisual integration.

Discover the latest AV solutions that deliver unforgettable experiences.

Fira de Barcelona | Gran Vía 10-13 May 2022

A joint venture partnership of

New Dates: 10-13 May 2022

Discover more iseurope.org Joining Forces

ISE 2022 - Stop press PPDS debuts most powerful direct view LED panels to date with new 3500 nits Philips 7000 L-Line Series for uncompromised creativity and performance. Now featuring high bright possibilities, extreme power saving and predictive maintenance, the latest models to PPDS’ 7000 Series L-Line DV LED displays are its most energy efficient and cost-effective to date, offering unrivalled quality and unrestricted creativity to installations of any shape, size or location.

PPDS has announced the latest and most powerful additions to its Philips 7000 Series 4K direct view LED, with the launch of the brand new 3500 nits higher brightness range, bringing uncompromised design and performance, as well as a more energy efficient LED solution, to a range of settings, including retail and public venues.

Unveiled and on display for the first time at ISE 2022 in Barcelona (stand 3Q600), the latest evolu-

tions of the best-selling bezel-free Philips 7000 Series – PPDS’ most complete, scalable and energy efficient direct view LED displays to date – combine the latest advancements and innovations for hardware design and intelligent software to support installations that demand to be seen.

Available in 22”, 31” and 41”

size variants and designed for 24/7 operation, the latest BDL7424L Philips L-Line models come equipped with all new powerful 3500 nits higher brightness capabilities – PPDS’ most powerful to date – guaranteeing stunningly clear 4K performance, viewable and readable (to the smallest detail) in even the most challenging lighting conditions, including direct sunlight behind glass, such as shop window displays.

Complementing the existing Philips L-Line 7000 series – first debuted in 2020 – the new additions (22BDL7424L, 3 1 B D L 7 4 2 4 L , 41BDL7424L) are equipped to fulfil even the most ambitious and challenging display designs, catering for installations of any shape or size, whether it’s a few panels or

more than 1,000.

Benefiting from PPDS’ patented easy mount brackets for fast and effortless installations, the Philips L-Line 7000 Series LED panels come with a height of 25cm and a choice of 50cm, 75cm and 100cm widths. Each panel is available in stan-

dard flat or with sloping bevelled corners (for L-shape cornering and curvature, 90-180 degrees) and in both convex and concave format options for curved designs, with customers able to mix and match to suit their imaginations.

Jeroen Brants, Global Product Manager LED Displays at PPDS, commented: “The modular design of Philips LED panels means they can adapt to any space, whether a tra-

A must for display owners with many geographical locations, with alerts able to display the exact item of failure (down to a single pixel) and location.

Providing further layers of protection, all Philips LED panels are IP30 rated and certified, featuring resistant conformal coating to protect against indoor pollutants – such as dust, dirt, fungus and moisture – to reduce the chances of short circuit, while their front facing

ditional flat display, or a vast, mesmerising masterpiece of digital art, flowing seamlessly around doorways and other openings. Even corners and curved displays in very bright areas become easy to create with the new Philips L-Line 7000 series. These 3500 nits high bright LED panels are perfect for attracting attention in large, busy areas that are subject to high ambient light.”

Ensuring optimum performance, the Philips L-Line 7000 Series benefits from PPDS’ advanced online and offline Active Health Monitoring software, providing intelligent real time feedback of any identified, or predicted faults which are likely to impact performance, and can be addressed immediately or, where possible, before they happen.

maintenance design removes lengthy de- and re-installations should any faults occur.

The Philips L-Line 7000 series has also been designed to slow down the spread of flames in the event of fire, achieving crucial fire retardancy certification for North America, EMEA, APAC regions (BS476, UL94, B1 DIN4102).

With sustainability and environmental consciousness in mind, the Philips L-Line 7000 series features PPDS ‘Dynamic Power Saving’ technology minimises power consumption by up to 20 per cent compared to other comparable market models, without compromising on quality or performance. This not only reduces environmental impact, it can also lower operating costs for a reduced total cost of ownership.

New Philips 7000 Series models •3500 nit brightness: High-brightness LED ensures that content is always visible in both indoor and outdoor environments.

Use the bezel-free design to create a clean look or fit into a custom installation for protective or branding purposes.

•Versatile sizing: Philips L-Line 7000 Series LED cabinets come with a height of 25cm and are available in 50cm, 75cm and 100cm widths. These displays are ready to be installed in any landscape format with no limitations to size. Also available with bevelled corners to form curved Videowall designs.

•Dynamic Panel Connect: Mix and match each of the Philips L-Line 7000 LED panel sizes to form a single display of any shape and dimension. Dynamic flexible alignment pins ensure a perfect fit in any circumstance – resulting in a smooth, seamless display surface. For added convenience and efficiency, each LED panel features openings on each side to allow for versatile wired connection between the LED panels and any external input connection.

•Unique in every way: Create bezel-free display walls of any

shape, size or resolution. The modular design of Philips professional LED cabinets means you can adapt to any space. Build vast, immersive installations or assemble intriguing patterns. Easily create Videowalls that flow seamlessly around doorways and other openings. Even corners and curved displays become easy to create with the new Philips 7000 series.

•Active Health Monitoring: Active Health Monitoring makes maintenance fast and simple by displaying the exact location should it experience a failure. Using this real-time software, replacing the relevant part becomes an efficient procedure.

•Factory calibrated: Every Philips L-Line LED panel is calibrated in our factory under perfect circumstances.

That means there’s no need for further calibration on location, resulting in quicker installations. Calibration and configuration files are available to ensure fast maintenance.

•IP30 rated conformal coat-

ing: Dust, dirt, fungus and moisture resistant conformal coating protects this product and enables easier maintenance. IP30 rated and certified against ingress for reduced chance of short circuit from dust and corrosion.

•Fire retardant: Fire retardant design slows down the spread of flames in the event of fire.

Tested and certified with British standard (BS476-7). In addition, the standard brightness P1.9 and P2.4 models are tested and certified with B1 DIN4102 and UL94.

•Optional easy-mount brackets: Patented easy-mount brackets make installation even faster. These optional items are available for flat LED mounting, convex curved (177.5/175/172.5 degree), and L-shape 90 degree corners.

•Low power consumption: Philips 7000 Series LED displays are designed to minimise power consumption.

This will not only reduce environmental impact but also lower operating costs.

Lightware Visual Engineering is highlighting its full line of AV-over-IP, networking and collaboration technologies for commercial applications and system installations at ISE 2022. Attendees can experience the company’s latest technologies through interactive “real-world” demonstrations that illustrate the practical benefits of the company’s technologies.

“The past year was full of milestones and achievements for us, and there’s more to come,” said Gergely Vida, CEO at Lightware Visual Engineering.

“From upgraded versions adding new features to our widely embraced products to new connected device management capabilities, visitors and industry professionals have a lot to look forward to from Lightware during ISE 2022.

In 2021, Lightware was named an official Cisco Solutions Plus Partner based on countless applications built with their Cisco Integration technology, while the USB-C capable Taurus UCX product range also gained traction across the AV industry.

The award-winning UBEX 10G AV-over-IP system now includes

For perfect presentation, all units come with built-in cable wiring, keeping power and data cables tidy, while display cabinets are daisy-chained for both power and data to minimise clutter and speed up installation. Each display is calibrated in PPDS’ factory ahead of being dispatched, meaning there's no need for further calibration on location, significantly reducing installation times on site, and inconvenience to the end user, with shop floors, for example, remaining clear.

Martijn van der Woude, Director International Business Development at PPDS, commented: “Whether it’s wowing customers in (or outside) of a retail store, creating a positive first impression in a corporate office’s reception area, or providing perfectly visible travel information (such as in an airport) – up close or further afar – the Philips L-Line 7000 series is only challenged by the constraints of imagination.”

Jeroen Brants, added: “In

2020, PPDS changed the game for LED installations with the launch of our Philips LED 7000 Series, challenging the limitations brought to market by our competitors, for a solution that is and continues to surpass expectations for even the most creative and imaginative installations. Ready to showcase at ISE 2022, we’ve raised that bar even higher with high bright to complement our existing range, bringing even more power and flexibility to ensure all challenges are met head on.”

Martijn concluded: “With the Philips Line 7000 Series, we’re providing the tools and capabilities to empower and facilitate end customers in creating truly unique and breath-taking display creations that redefine audience engagement. With seamless display connectivity, multiple sizing, and curvature design in any shape, form, or flow, the opportunities are truly limitless and without boundaries.”

a double-scaling feature that halves the number of endpoints needed for videowalls and allows the UBEX system to function as a single device for this purpose. This capability, combined with its transceiver (TRX = simultaneously receive and transmit signals) capabilities and zero latency make it a perfect fit for live events, eSport arenas and more.

The 1G VINX device family, the “little brother” to UBEX, is also

login function to VINX devices, requiring end-users and integrators to use a password to configure their devices for added protection against unauthorized access.

Lightware is unveiling firmware version 1.4 for its Taurus UCX switchers. Lightware’s Taurus UCX is an in-room UC media management node enabling the connection of up to four devices (PC, Mac, video room system, etc.), using two USB-C

growing with the addition of a new wallplate that makes installation even easier and more convenient. Lightware is also adding a password-protected

ports and two mixed (USB/ HDMI) ports. Users can simply

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ISE 2022 - Stop press Lightware Visual Engineering connect their device using a single USB-C cable combining video, audio, control and Ethernet signals, and then begin sharing or presenting content.

With version 1.4, the Taurus UCX devices can send basic Consumer Electronic Control (CEC) commands directly through their HDMI outputs, switch devices on/off, control volume or switch between input ports. This eliminates the need to use serial ports to control end-point devices, giving users and integrators easier control and streamlining system installation and configuration.

Other upgraded features include dual 60W charging via USB-C. The two USB-C ports on the Taurus UCX devices can still transfer data and video/audio signals, and now can also provide charging. Each port will be able to provide 60W, compared to the previous 1x60W or 2x30W-hoz possibilities, allowing connected devices to charge faster and providing a more suitable option for certain laptops that require normal charging to ensure full functionality.

Lightware is also adding bulk management capabilities to

the Taurus line, allowing users to perform network settings and configurations on multiple devices simultaneously and saving configuration time, especially for larger systems with a high number of standardized meeting rooms.

As a natural progression from Lightware’s widely embraced HDMI-TPS lineup, the new TPX extenders will also debut during ISE 2022. These compact, powerful extenders use AVX technology combined with HDMI 2.0 capabilities.

The newest addition to the MMX2 product family will make its debut at ISE. The MMX24x3-H20 matrix switcher offers the same high levels of reliability and rich features users expect from the MMX and the MX2 device ranges, including seamless 4K60 transmissions and HDCP 2.2 compliance.

Lightware’s MX2M modular matrix switcher also adds flexibility to AV systems. Following the success of the 24x24 cross-point size device last year, a new 48x48-sized matrix is coming and will also feature TPX connectivity along with a selection of hot-swappable boards.

During ISE 2022, Lightware will present live presentations of its new products as well as highlight the integration with Cisco Webex Room Devices, Meeting Room Solutions in collaboration with Mersive Technologies and demonstrating Lightware’s Bring Your Own Device (BYOD) capabilities of the Taurus UCX line.

Lightware has collaborated with a number of companies to offer a full-service AV meeting room solutions to their customers. Since 2021, Lightware has been offering its customers Cisco-dedicated bundles and continues to build on this service with many more enterprises.

Visitors can see these Cisco-based bundles in action and witness how these add power, simplicity and consistent controls to their Touch 10 and Room Navigator panels. The Taurus UCX live presentation will demonstrate how simple and intuitive it is to apply the BYOD approach in today’s hybrid meeting rooms and collaboration spaces.

For more information on Lightware technologies, visit www. lightware.com or follow them on social media.

Visit us at stand 3N100 in the Multi-Technology Zone.

EPOS, the premium audio solutions brand for Enterprise and Gaming, is poised to detail the latest exciting additions to its EXPAND range of meeting room solutions at this year’s Integrated Systems Europe 2022 (ISE), held in Barcelona from May 10th to 13th, alongside some of the world's leading technology innovators and solutions providers.

EPOS is excited to announce its expansion into the AV market with three new product launches: ·EXPAND Vision 5, EPOS’ latest cutting-edge video bar where

·EXPAND Control, EPOS’ first tablet designed to be used in conjunction with its video solutions as a meeting room controller and as a room scheduling device. ·EXPAND Vision 1, a compact, portable USB webcam delivering ultra-sharp video and voice pickup.

Attendees will be able to visit EPOS’ booth, 2D200, to learn about its new vision for the modern meeting room designed to amplify collaborative potential, with devices certified for leading UC solutions including Microsoft Teams Rooms on Android™ and Zoom Rooms.

Alongside this, visitors and at-

· Meet members of the EPOS team to discuss the specifications, features and benefits of the new offerings it will be bringing to the conference. ·Learn what these new entrants to the EPOS product line bring to its customers and where they sit in EPOS’s strategy moving forward. ·Get hands-on demonstrations with EPOS’ new range of AV solutions.

“We’re extremely excited to be attending ISE in 2022,” said Theis Mork, VP of Global Product Management. “After this year’s event was postponed, there’s been a huge amount of

powerful speakers, wide-angle 4K camera, noise-cancelling microphones, and compute have been uniquely combined in an all-in-one video conferencing solution for small meeting rooms for optimal performance in the room and for participant dialling in.

tendees will be able to: · Hear Dorthe Krogh Jensen, VP Global Marketing, on May 10th, 17.00-17.20, in Hall 5, for an in-depth presentation, titled: “EPOS BrainAdapt: Audio designed for your brain”, as part of ISE’s Smart Workplace Summit.

anticipation within the EPOS team to get over to Barcelona.

Now that we’re just a few weeks away, we’re excited to unveil the new solutions and cannot wait to let attendees be among the first to test them out. Make sure you come along to our booth, 2D200, to learn more.”

The Barcelona-based digital signage technology start-up nsign. tv is has announced its participation at ISE 2022 at Fira de Barcelona Gran Vía, from May

10-13 in stand 6G175, where it will be showcasing the new functionalities and improved usability of its digital signage platform and the positive im-

pact the technology can have on businesses.

“At this year’s ISE, as well as exhibiting our platform’s technological advances, we are go-

4P24 AV News May 2022

The NEC dvLED E Series lineup addresses two increasingly relevant market requirements.

The models are more cost-efficient, driving the adoption of LED technology in corporate meeting rooms as well as for signage applications, especially in retail. Furthermore, the products allow for very easy and elegant installations, thanks to the slim product profile of only 29mm and the light-weight aluminium cabinet. The dvLED E Series provides all this while not compromising on Sharp/ NEC’s high visual quality, reliability, longevity and safety.

“We are pleased to bring to-

gether all the advantages of fine-pitch LED to a more affordable pre-bundled solution for the corporate customers or for retailers. The new dvLED E Series lacks nothing in high-impact content delivery. The pre-bundled indoor solution includes everything a customer would need to implement large surface visualisation without hindrance from bezels, and with superb brightness and high contrast which gets noticed even in areas of high ambient light”, said Nils Detje, Product Manager Direct View LED at Sharp NEC Display Solutions Europe.

“As such, the NEC LEDE012i-108 is the ideal choice for companies looking for a budget-friendly solution with excellent visual LED quality for their meeting room spaces or in retail stores. They do not need to compromise image quality anymore and can get the best available price/performance there is”, Detje added.

Sharp/NEC will showcase the NEC LED-E012i-108 at ISE 2022, which will take place May 10 – 13 in Barcelona.

Visitors will find the solutions and team of Sharp/NEC display experts on stand E600, Hall 3.

ing to demonstrate that digital signage is much more than simply showing content on a screen. It has evolved to the extent that it enables full interaction with audiences, with examples such as tactile screens, interaction with IOT devices and AI analytical functions”, explained Toni Viñals, CEO of nsgin.tv, before adding that “visitors to our stand will be able to see how to scale their deployments of digital signage and guarantee the technological evolution of their businesses.”

The company’s 32-square-metre booth will be fitted out with different displays where visitors can appreciate the interoperability of nsign.tv that makes it completely compatible with any technology or device. So, for instance, we will have a 3x3 videowall with 42” LCD screens by iiyama, which will give live demos of the platform, including the launch of synchros on IOT. There will also be a 2-metre-high by 1-metre-wide LED

by Alfalite—the only European manufacturer of LED screens— exemplifying the integration of the brand’s displays with nsign. tv’s software platform to offer a turnkey integral communication solution which is extremely simple to implement.

Visitors to the nsign.tv stand will also see the brand-new onboarding system for new users that lets them browse the platform with a help wizard so that they can follow all the right steps to post content on a virtual player. At the same time, they will also see the platform’s connectivity with different IOT triggers such as a range of sensors, QR codes, NFC, electron-

ic tags, etc.

Also on display will be Smart Playlists, a powerful new way of working to create smart playlists quickly and to automatically manage the posting of content by means of the advanced use of a tag system.

Without forgetting Applets, micro applications in HTML5 that facilitate working with connectivity in multiple systems to show content dynamically and save time and production costs.

on hand to demonstrate the All-in-One solution which, besides doing away with the need for external players, also offers many other benefits such as the division of screens into multiple areas to enhance productivity. On another note, Toni Viñals will be taking part in the Digital Signage Summit at ISE at 12:30 on 11 May with a paper on the synergies between a Spanish tech company and the Latin-American market and the possibilities for implementing digital signage solutions in a region in constant growth and with a demand for new technology.

In addition, the nsign. tv CEO has also been invited to take part at the AV Experience Zone at ISE, an event aimed at bringing together Spanish end-use customers with the AV Pro industry and with integration businesses. Here, Viñals will give a presentation on 12 May at 12:30 on how a well-integrated digital signage system can give retailers a series of inputs on the customers who visit their physical stores and show the right messages at the right time to the target audience, replicating the way that retailers interact with their customers on their online channels.

nsign.tv will also be visible at ISE at the booth of its partner iiyama (stand # 3R3009), exhibiting the Japanese multinational’s All-in-one Solution digital signage screens which come with the nsign.tv software platform pre-installed, a perfect communication solution for the retail, hospitality, education, entertainment and health sectors as well as corporations and other markets. iiyama will set aside an exclusive 16-square-metre corner kitted out with seven screens— including tactile screens—for this integrated solution, with nsign.tv experts permanently

Peoplewatch

PEOPLEWATCH PPDS, the exclusive global provider of Philips digital signage, interactive displays, direct view LED and professional TVs, has announced its creation of two new regional business clusters in Europe, building on the existing strengths of its European sales teams to deliver display solutions without boundaries. Marking the next phase in PPDS’ evolution, this important and strategic clustering brings additional focus to specific verticals within existing and burgeoning markets across the Mediterranean and Central and Eastern European regions.

The new structure has been designed to harness the talents and experience of the company’s existing people. César Sanz, Sales Director Iberia, will see his geographic responsibilities extended to cover France and North Africa, on top of his existing region (Spain, Portugal, Andorra and Gibraltar). César, who has helped guide Iberia to record sales of PPDS’ Philips digital signage and developing LED portfolio in 2021, will hold the newly created position of Sales Director Iberia and France.

Christie has announced Hideaki Onishi as its new chairman and CEO. With more than 30 years of management experience in various positions within the Ushio, Inc. group – parent company of Christie – Hideaki will begin his role immediately to lead Christie into its next chapter. Hideaki will replace Kazuhisa Kamiyama, who has completed his tenure with Christie and is returning to Japan to take up a new role at Ushio headquarters.

“It’s a great honour to lead Christie,” says Hideaki Onishi, chairman and CEO, Christie. “Christie has a proud legacy of continued innovation, in its products, manufacturing, and in its ever-evolving business models. I aim to bring strong leadership and to honour principles of respect, transparency and integrity. Kazuhisa’s work was pivotal in navigating Christie through the many challenges faced in both the industry and the wider economy in recent years.

I look forward to holding open conversations with all levels of the Christie team globally to learn more. I am excited for the journey ahead and Christie’s continued growth – it's an exciting time to be joining the company.”

Hideaki began working for Ushio in 1989. Known for a strong aptitude in sales, he has also continued to demonstrate impressive management skills throughout his career. He has a broad and extensive range of experience in various roles, having worked at Ushio Lighting, Taiwan Ushio Lighting, Adtech Engineering, Ushio Asia Pacific (Singapore), Vietnam, Thailand and Ushio Europe. Among

César Sanz, PPDS’ Sales Director Iberia, will see his geographic responsibilities extended to cover France and North Africa, on top of his existing region (Spain, Portugal, Andorra and Gibraltar).

PPDS has achieved significant growth in the hospitality sector in recent years, becoming the market leader for hospitality displays (spearheaded by its Philips MediaSuite pro TV range) in the Nordics, DACH and Benelux in 2021. Extending its footprint in this key industry further, the company is also now deploying its range on a global level, with footprints now within the North America and Asia Pacific regions as well. With ambitions to mirror this success in France – strategically a key hospitality marketplace and home to a number of key global hotel chains – Franck Dufrêne has been appointed as Business Director for Hospitality France. Having already held numerous dedicated management and leadership roles during his career, Franck’s substantial experience and proven history operating in the hospitality industry, supported by a strengthened team to address this key market, is set to accelerate PPDS’ position as market leader.

With the company’s market presence in Central and Eastern Europe continuing to grow, Milan Krejzlik, CEE Sales Manager, will see his current responsibilities extended to become Sales Director CEE, overseeing sales across the cluster. Heading up the existing CEE team, the move is designed to help further expand brand awareness, and to seize new opportunities for PPDS digital signage, interactive displays, direct view LED and professional TV products and solutions on a broader scale.

Commenting on the changes, Franck Racapé, Vice President EMEA at PPDS, said: “We see some tremendous opportunities for growth in Europe, and with today’s announcement we’re providing our greatest assets – our people – with the support, the structure and the tools to maximise their own strengths and abilities, helping them and the business to flourish.” He added: “PPDS has a proud record of continuing to invest in and expand its talented global team. This is a strategy that will continue in 2022, with this clustering only serving to strengthen the positions of our current workforce. Together, we can continue to elevate PPDS and our Philips professional display sales.”

Christie has announced Hideaki Onishi as its new chairman and CEO. many highlights, Hideaki was entrusted with guiding the manufacture and sales of the printed circuit board (PCB) exposure machines that Ushio acquired in its 2012 acquisition of ADTEC Engineering.

The next five years saw the business reach a position of strength, which culminated in his appointment as president of Ushio Asia Pacific in 2016. Hideaki joins Christie from his previous role as president of Ushio Europe.

“Looking back at my time at Christie, I am filled by a sense of accomplishment and gratitude,” says Kazuhisa Kamiyama, outgoing Chairman and CEO. “I would like to thank everyone at Christie for their hard work and dedication. Together, we have overcome unprecedented adversity and prepared the company for a prosperous future. I leave knowing the company is in good hands with Hideaki, and I look forward to seeing continued success for Christie.”

Xyte, the Hardware-as-a-Service (HaaS) solution leader, which is bringing a fundamental shift in the way hardware manufacturing ecosystems operate, announced its global expansion today with the launch of dedicated operations in North America. The company is strategically moving to meet the fast-growing demand for its as-aService enablement platform. With Xyte’s first-of-its-kind Connected Device Management Platform (CDMP), hardware manufacturers and integrators now have one suite of tools to turn their products into services, and quickly go to market with as-a-Service offerings and transact recurring revenue at scale.

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

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

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

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

The company’s US office will be led by Xyte’s new VP of Sales, Andrew Gross. Gross comes to Xyte with over a decade of experience driving revenue growth and building successful sales teams. Most recently, he served as VP of Enterprise Sales and in other leadership roles at Crestron Electronics.

Gravity Media has further bolstered the EMEA business development team with key new hires - Beth Lowney from the International Tennis Federation and Claire Downey from Aurora Media. As part of the ongoing global expansion of Gravity Media, the EMEA Business Development team led by Director of BD, Blair Wood, has continued its investment in the best broadcast and media talent hiring Beth Lowney as Business Development Manager, Claire Downey as Technical Producer – Proposals, as well as internal promotions for Katie Tookey as Proposals Manager – Production and Osaro Ewansiha as Proposals Researcher.

Blair Wood, Gravity Media’s Director of Business Development, says about the new team additions: “As we continue to grow behind the end-to-end Gravity Media brand, we have gradually and patiently been looking for the right talent to ensure our Business Development team can truly harness the full capabilities of the EMEA business for both new and existing clients. I am delighted we have been able to attract people of Beth and Claire’s calibre, along with promoting great people from within, to create a really diverse set of skills and experience within Business Development.

The expanded team has already delivered some captivating new projects, branching into different markets in the process, and there are more on the way over the coming months. It is exciting times at Gravity Media, with a number of major new partners coming on the journey with us, and we look forward to welcoming many more.”

Beth Lowney was previously at the International Tennis Federation for over eight years, where she headed up the Broadcast Team.

Her time working at ITF meant she was involved in working on the rights holder for Davis Cup - the largest annual international team competition in sport, with the Billie Jean King Cup being the equivalent in women’s sport. During her time with the ITF, Beth worked with over 75 broadcasters in over 175 territories. She

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P25 AV News May 2022

Peoplewatch

PEOPLEWATCH was responsible for international production & distribution for the Davis Cup & Billie Jean King Cup competitions. She also worked closely with Kosmos on the reformat of the Davis Cup as well as heading up the media rights and distribution of the inaugural Billie Jean King Cup Finals working closely with Gravity Media prior to joining.

Her new Gravity Media role of Business Development Manager means she will work across Outside Broadcast and Projects. She will be account managing key client relationships as well as dedicating her time to the growth of new business.Beth Lowney says on joining Gravity Media: “Knowing the Gravity team, and working directly with them on a very successful Billie Jean King Cup Finals, I am delighted to be part of this experienced Business Development unit. Having worked on the rights holder side of sport in Media Rights and Production and I am excited to bring a different perspective and start working with such an innovative and growing company”.

Claire Downey joins the Gravity Media team as Technical Producer - Proposals. Claire arrives as an expert in live sports productions, particularly outside broadcasts, having worked in the industry for almost 10 years. Most recently she worked for Aurora Media Worldwide as a Technical Broadcast Manager on Formula E, supporting the delivery of all programme feeds and servicing international rights holders. Claire’s career has also seen her work for Deltatre, where she project managed & provided technical support for many clients including UEFA, Channel 4 (Paralympics coverage), European Tour and EPCR before she joined WTA Media at DAZN. There she was part of the team that set-up the project and spent 4 years working onsite at WTA tennis tournaments as a Broadcast Technical Manager. She was responsible for planning & delivering all the technical aspects of WTA Media host broadcasts with an emphasis on technical soundness, high production quality, partner collaboration and client support.

Claire Downey says on her new Gravity Media role: “In previous roles I had the pleasure of working with Gravity Media’s talented engineers on outside broadcasts. It is a company that I have always admired, an industry leader that is constantly looking to evolve, innovate and expand and one I am delighted to join, especially at such an exciting time for the business. I look forward to using my skills to develop the very best in technical broadcast services for our existing and future clients.”

years in the visual display market – joins the global LED display manufacturer, having previously worked alongside brands such as Philips, Samsung, LG, and Epson. He boasts an impressive understanding of visual display technology in LED, LCD and DV LED. “Displays technology is currently experiencing a great shift in terms of visual communication,” comments Guleria. “Knowledge is the key to success. My extensive background in visual displays is something I can share with Absen, to add value to its already renowned reputation.”

In speaking of his goals in the role over the next few years, Guleria comments that Absen has “come a long way already with great vision” in the MEA region. Hoping to continue on in the same strength, Guleria is looking forward to what he can deliver to the future of the company. “Absen is the undisputed market-leader in LED, so it feels great to be part of an incredibly talented and professional team, he says. “I firmly believe Absen will further strengthen this leadership, so it’s a very exciting team to be a part of.”

Commenting on the appointment, Ruben Rengel concludes: “We are thrilled to welcome Jaswinder to the team, his wealth of industry knowledge will be an invaluable asset in growing our network further as well as strengthening the relationships Absen already has in this region.”

Global LED specialists, Absen, has appointed Jaswinder Guleria as new industry development director for the Middle East and Africa (MEA) region.

Beth Lowney was previously at the International Tennis Federation for over eight years, where she headed up the Broadcast Team Global LED specialists, Absen, has appointed Jaswinder Guleria as new industry development director for the Middle East and Africa (MEA) region. Bringing two decades of experience within the AV industry, Guleria will expand and strengthen the company’s business alliances throughout the MEA region, to bolster Absen’s global network. Reporting to Ruben Rengel, senior vice president, global business development at Absen, Guleria’s primary objectives will be identifying and introducing Absen to potential clients, consultants, and distributors in the region, to forge new business associates and partners in Absen’s global network.

Guleria – whose industry experience includes more than 19+

P26 AV News May 2022

Vizrt has announced the appointment of Jon Raidel as the company’s new Global Lead for its Live Production in the Cloud offering.

With an accomplished background spanning nearly two decades as a technical director in sports broadcasting, Raidel is uniquely positioned to further innovate Vizrt’s solutions in cloud-first live production with his deep, intimate understanding of the challenges and needs of customers.

“Building software-defined visual storytelling tools are mission-critical when talking about futureproofing live production, and Vizrt is advancing those fail-safe technologies. I’ve worked with Vizrt and NewTek for years, and they have some of the best offerings out there. Working with the technology of the future made me want to be a part of driving change directly - this is why I’ve joined Vizrt,” says Raidel.

Raidel is a rich source of expertise and will work directly with development teams. He will also be an integral part of Vizrt’s Customer Success team to guarantee Vizrt's trusted and reliable solutions in the cloud and live production become even more relative and valuable to end-users. “Jon is an incredible asset to Vizrt due to his direct experience of the requirements and challenges our customers are facing day-to-day. With his unique point of view, our world-class solutions and Customer Success Team will get even better, solidifying our position in the market for live production in the cloud,” states Vanessa Walmsley, Global Head of Customer Success.

Before joining Vizrt, Raidel worked as the Manager of Technical Operations with the National Football League (NFL) for NFL Net-

work and NFL Digital control rooms. Prior to that, Raidel worked with the National Basketball Association as a Technical Director.

In both roles, Raidel advocated for Vizrt and NewTek technologies using the solutions across hundreds of productions in varying sizes both on-prem and in the cloud.

At Vizrt, Raidel will collaborate with the product development and Customer Success teams on several 2022 initiatives including advancing Vizrt's capabilities in sports, creating a Viz Technical Director Academy, establishing a new Vizrt Center of Excellence to expand product offerings, training, and certification options for customers.

Vizrt has announced the appointment of Jon Raidel as the company’s new Global Lead for its Live Production in the Cloud offering.

PPDS strengthens International Key Account team with the appointment of Valeriia Polovkova as its new dedicated Project Manager Strengthening PPDS’ dedicated International Customer Solutions team, Valeriia will provide full end-to-end service and support to multinational businesses across 159 countries, coordinating and executing project rollouts from tender to completion, for smoother, faster and more cost-efficient installations.

PPDS has appointed the highly accomplished AV professional, Valeriia Polovkova, as its new dedicated international project manager for tailored installations in hospitality, corporate and retail. A self-proclaimed “problem solving specialist”, Valeriia joins PPDS with more than 10 years of AV industry experience – including specialist technical knowledge of Philips displays – further strengthening and extending PPDS’ highly unique and acclaimed team of International Key Account Managers (IKAM) to support all major market verticals.

Launched in 2020, PPDS’ IKAM network was created to help overcome historical challenges for businesses with multinational footprints with their AV installations, bringing a global consistency with local expertise, providing dedicated support and a single point of contact for more streamlined, time- and cost-efficient project installations. Based in Amstelveen, northern Netherlands, Valeriia, as part of the IKAM team, will be responsible for the coordination and successful execution of global projects within corporate, retail and hospitality markets, encompassing strategy, pricing, contracting, pre- and post-sales of products and solutions (hardware, software, brackets, fittings), operations, country-specific taxes, certifications, services and more.

She will work alongside other founding members of the IKAM team, including International Key Account Directors, Frank Trossen and Peter Vinke, as well as Simone Gagliardi – to whom she will report.

Discussing her appointment as International Key Account Project Manager, Valeriia said: “I’m thrilled to have joined PPDS and to be part of the incredible IKAM team. AV is my passion, and with my previous roles and experiences, all the stars were aligned perfectly for me, with the opportunity to work for such a progressive company as PPDS, in such a unique and exciting role. Too good to miss.”

Valeriia has already played a crucial role at PPDS, beating a number of its competitors to a series of high value contracts – including, most recently, a multi-site installation of more than 400+ digital signage displays – with tenders for more in their final stages.

Simone Gagliardi said: “Since establishing the IKAM team, PPDS

Peoplewatch

PEOPLEWATCH has created a unique and competitive edge in the market, bringing additional support and business opportunities to its valued channel partners, while creating a truly seamless and simplified approach to completing even the most complex projects on an international and multinational scale.”

He concluded: “Valeriia’s vast knowledge and experience, in AV and with our Philips displays, made her a perfect fit for PPDS and in extending the IKAM team. She has already proven herself to be a hugely hands-on, and enthusiastic team player and on behalf of the IKAM team and everyone at the company, I am delighted to welcome her to the PPDS family.”

and transformation. Paired with their deep knowledge of the market this will enable HOLOPLOT to grow and excel even further in the coming months and years.”

Tom, Ryan and the HOLOPLOT team will be on the ground at the rescheduled ISE show in Barcelona from 10-13 May at booth #7K700.

HOLOPLOT has announced the appointment of Tom Barker-Harrold, as Head of Marketing and Ryan Penny, as Head of Sales EMEA.

PPDS has appointed the highly accomplished AV professional, Valeriia Polovkova, as its new dedicated international project manager for tailored installations in hospitality, corporate and retail.

HOLOPLOT has announced the appointment of Tom Barker-Harrold, as Head of Marketing and Ryan Penny, as Head of Sales EMEA. These hires follow a substantial period of growth and product commercialisation for the company.

Tom Barker-Harrold joins the HOLOPLOT leadership team off the back of a fifteen-year marketing career, working with established pro audio brands including Audio-Technica and d&b audiotechnik. In his new role, Barker-Harrold spearheads the company’s international marketing department covering brand and product marketing strategy, performance marketing and communications.

After a decade of diverse roles within the pro audio industry, Ryan Penny joins HOLOPLOT as Head of Sales, EMEA. Formerly working across both consultancy and sales management, Penny’s held previous roles at RH Consulting, Vanguardia and HARMAN International. In his new role, Penny leads HOLOPLOT’s commercial expansion across Europe, the Middle East and Africa drawing from his experience as a sales and project leader on some of the world's most iconic events and venues.

Commenting on his appointment, Tom Barker-Harrold, Head of Marketing at HOLOPLOT said: "From my first conversations with the HOLOPLOT team, I was inspired by the company's mission to radically transform the audio industry, and completely convinced by the technological development already in place to deliver on that goal. It's a unique and compelling opportunity to drive the continued growth of the HOLOPLOT brand. I’m looking forward to presenting our flagship X1 Matrix Array during the upcoming ISE and Infocomm events" New Head of Sales EMEA Ryan Penny added: "It is a pleasure to step into the role of Head of Sales EMEA at HOLOPLOT during this transformational time for the company. The recently launched X1 system is a true game changer in the pro-audio space. The potential applications of the X1 system - and future HOLOPLOT products expanding on its innovation - are enormous, and I look forward to helping bring these products to events and venues across EMEA.” HOLOPLOT CEO Roman Sick adds: “I am very excited about Tom and Ryan joining our team. Both their reputations have preceded them in the industry and they share our hunger for innovation

INFiLED has announced the hiring of Jon Chavez as Regional Sales Manager covering the Central Region of the United States for both fixed installation and the rental and staging markets. Jon’s Nashville base and experience in major project design and integration services as well as rental/staging will lend itself to INFiLED’s team with concentration in those sectors.

“Jon’s worked on very creative and technical projects over the course of his career. His involvement in large, complex installs and other rental/staging touring designs and as a technical designer makes him a perfect fit for INFiLED. Jon’s one of those guys who loves to roll up his sleeves and make stuff happen. His experience of offering consultation when projects are met with tough realities is key to INFiLED’s success. We love his energy, dedication, and passion for cutting-edge technology. We’re super excited to have him on our team,” says VP of Sales, Grif Palmer.

“I am inspired to be a part of an all-star team of genuine professionals representing INFiLED in the fully charged US market. With real world project experience and mission commitment, I look forward to helping integrators, partners, and customers find the best products and guiding them through any technical needs along the way to ensure their continued success,” says Jon Chavez, RSM for INFiLED. Jon had his career start at TMB as a Product Specialist working with entertainment production, media servers, and lighting. He then went onto project management and technical sales for VER and PixelFLEX LED specializing the LED installation projects and emerging technologies. His most recent position was at Amazing Industries working with event designers in Dallas, Nashville, and LA. We invite you to contact Jon at jon.chavez@infiled.com.

In line with its commitment to increase customer support in the US, Italian audio specialists Powersoft welcomes three new employees to its US office in Flanders, New Jersey. Peter Robinson – whose industry experience includes more than 25 years as a system integrator and speaker designer – joins Powersoft as consultant liaison with immediate effect. Providing oversight and management for large scale projects, Robinson will also assist consultants, architects, engineers and end-users, coordinating the efforts of Powersoft’s solutions engineering team.

Robinson, who has previously worked alongside Powersoft’s US general manager, Tom Knesel, is thrilled to have the opportunity to work with him once again in this new position: “We worked closely together in the past to achieve our goals as a team,” says Robinson. “ I am convinced Powersoft is the number one brand of amplifiers in the world. The engineering considerations are world class and the DSP is best in class.”

Evelyn Caruso joins Powersoft as inside sales coordinator in the United States, bringing over 20 years of experience in industrial sales support, distribution and manufacturing to the newly created position. Caruso will be responsible for the coordination and execution of sales and customer support, as well as assisting the US sales team with forecasting reports.

Collaborating with others and truly getting to know the customer base, is the first port of call for Caruso who believes Powersoft to be a “progressive company with so much potential for the future”.

Powersoft’s third US appointment is recently graduated, Zach Wenzler who has been appointed to the role of solutions engineer. With a particular flare for circuits design and structural analysis, Wenzler hopes to bring new ideas and innovations to further improve Powersoft’s approach to technical support. “I salute Powersoft’s approach to trust young individuals to keep the company growing and thriving

in current and new markets. To be a part of a growing company is an honour, especially when it comes to being one of the first engineers in the US location”, he comments.

Powersoft’s growing presence in the US recently lead to an office relocation to more sizable space in Flanders, New Jersey. The office expansion not only benefits the current customer base, but facilitates overall growth of the team and of the company. Caruso, Wenzler and Robinson will be based in the new office, reporting to Tom Knesel, Powersoft’s US general manager. “We are delighted to welcome the three new hires the US Powersoft team,” says Knesel. “With the skills and knowledge they respectively bring to their roles, it’s another exciting step for Powersoft in growing its reputation in the US.” Anders+Kern add to Sales team Workspace, AV and meeting room technology specialist, Anders+Kern are pleased to announce the recent appointment of Patrick Durham as a Channel Account Manager.

Patrick adds to the existing team, including Terry Lin who joined A+K as a Channel Account Manager during the heights of the lockdowns last year.

Patrick and Terry have a wealth of experience in AV / IT Channel Sales having spent a combined over 30 years working at vendor, distributor, and reseller areas of the channel.

The A+K team are eager to get back out on the road and meet with customer face to face to assist with projects and demo the range of technologies avail-

able through A+K. A+K specialises in workspace software, sensor technologies, meeting room and desk management/booking systems, visitor management, data analytics & audio-visual solutions.

You will be able to meet the A+K sales team over at ISE this month - Visit them on the Evoko booth 3N900 for product demos and first look at new products, including the recently launched Kleeo desk manager.

Patrick Durham as a Channel Account Manager. Terry Lin who joined A+K as a Channel Account Manager

4

P27 AV News May 2022

Dairy and Events

ISE 2022 launches inspiring creative programme Integrated Systems Europe has announced a raft of activities set to Light Up Barcelona, highlight creativity and technical prowess and showcase the power of the AV experience.

ISE’s keynote speakers have been chosen to reflect creativity using technology and three projects will perfectly showcase to visitors how, when integrated into a collaborative solution, the pro AV industry helps to deliver stunning immersive experiences.

Media artist and pioneer in the aesthetics of data and machine intelligence, Refik Anadol will give the Opening Keynote Address at ISE 2022. Anadol paints with a thinking brush, offering radical visualizations of our digitized memories and expanding the possibilities of architecture, narrative, and the body in motion.

Anadol has created ‘In the Mind of Gaudí’, an immersive installation inspired by Casa Batlló and Antoni Gaudí’s work is showcased in the Gaudí Cube, the world’s first six-LED-wall room. It shows the different creative capacities of the combination of digital image, big data, and AI and explores new ways to bring digital art closer to the general public.

As CEO and co-founder of Illuminarium, Alan Greenberg heads up a breakthrough global experiential entertainment company created by worldwide leaders in cinematic immersion, interactive content, and theatrical design. With stunning venues opening around the world, Illuminarium transports its audience through a sensory experience like no other, enabling visitors to see, hear, feel, smell, and even affect experiences they only dream about through transformative,

state-of-the-art technologies.

Greenberg will be exploring the technical challenges and the exciting future as he maps out the Next Generation of Immersive Entertainment.

Created and produced by Barcelona-based Flaix Studio, and running on Monday 9 May through to Wednesday 11 May

Taking place on one of the iconic curved buildings on the Plaça d’Espanya by the Fira Montjuïc – sister venue to ISE’s new home, the Fira Gran Vía – this 15-minute programme will loop over two hours on three successive nights during ISE 2022. The Plaça d’Espanya is a popular traffic junction

A special event will happen on the façade of Casa Batlló on the evening of Saturday 7 May as a result of the collaboration between Refik Anadol, OFFF Barcelona – a festival of creativity, art and digital design – and ISE 2022 at 21:00 each evening, this eye-catching projection mapping explores the themes of hope, regeneration and renewal as the pro AV industry looks to return to more normal ways of working following the upheaval caused by the pandemic.

and landmark within the city.

The pillars on the two curved buildings that span Avinguda de la Reina Maria Cristina are regarded as the gateway to the Montjuïc fountain, an important Barcelona landmark and tourist attraction.

A special event will happen on the façade of Casa Batlló on the evening of Saturday 7 May as a result of the collaboration between Refik Anadol, OFFF Barcelona – a festival of creativity, art and digital design – and ISE 2022. This must-attend event will mark a bridge between these two milestones in the digital arts and AV industry.

Gaudí gave Casa Batlló a unique façade, full of imagination, thanks to his work as a free and joyful artist. He thus created an exuberant and marine-inspired façade, adding involuntary sculptures, recycled materials and decontextualised objects, converting them into a universal work of art currently a UNESCO World Heritage site. A visit to this iconic destination is a must for any visitor to ISE 2022 in Barcelona. Stay tuned for more information.

In an amazing coup, ISE has worked with award-winning company Exhibition Hub to curate a unique virtual reality experience art installation which combines several of its award-winning immersive art experiences. A world first and one-of-a-kind, this digital art exhibition will animate iconic masterpieces from artists such as Van Gogh, Claude Monet, Frida Kahlo and Gustav Klimt.

The spectacular 360° light and music show has been created with the support of AED Display, AV Stumpfl, AV-Drop / Showtex, Barco, Fluge, LANG and more.

Integrated Systems Events Managing Director Mike Blackman explained: “ISE embodies creativity, innovation, and technology and I am really excited that we have put together a series of stunning experiences for this, our first big event at our

new home in Barcelona. These initiatives perfectly illustrate the impact and power that the professional AV industry has to create truly memorable experiences and kickstart connections to deliver business benefit. I have seen the plans and the previews, but I cannot wait to see them all in action during the show.”

Integrated Systems Europe, ISE 2022, will take place at the Fira de Barcelona Gran Vía on 10-13 May 2022.

ISE 2022 - retail showcase Running alongside the Digital Signage Avenue in Hall 6, the ISE Retail Showcase, sponsored by Econocom (Hall 6, Booth 6A200) will take visitors on a journey through the ultimate frictionless retail experience. Focused on usability and real-world scenarios, this 160 m2 booth recreates a series of retail environments to best highlight latest technologies.

Mock-ups of fashion and grocery stores will feature best-inclass digital signage solutions, sensors and retail analytics devices in this hands-on show feature.

The ISE Retail Showcase has been curated by Florian Rotberg, managing director of leading digital signage consultancy, invidis, and chair of the Digital Signage Summit who explains: “The demand for cutting edge digital solutions in retail is as strong as ever. Working with some really great partners, Econocom in partnership with 99 Sensors and with support of dozens of solution providers, we have created the ISE Retail Showcase to demonstrate how today’s AV technology delivers real benefits and showcase real-world settings.”

The ISE Retail Showcase demonstrates technology side by side in a vendor agnostic showcase. It is tailored for end-users to explore what technologies, touchpoint concepts and data is best suited for retail applications and is set out in four distinct areas: a retail store, supermarket, hybrid office and control centre setting.

Within these four areas, visitors will be able to explore: • Sensors enhancing the retail experience • Automatic supermarket checkout • People counter / audience measurement • Anti-Covid Solutions • Comparing and explaining sensor technologies • Controlling digital signage installations by sensors • Dashboards • Analytics Technologies: • People counter comparison • Sensor Playground Brands showcased include Samsung, LG and Philips, the first kiosk/totem control device, Kiosk IQ, sensor technologies from Nexmosphere, M5stack, Xovis, 99sensors and others.

The Retail Showcase is running in Hall 6 on each day of the show. It has been developed by ISE, invidis Consulting, Econocom and 99sensors.

The Digital Signage Avenue makes its debut in Hall 6 at ISE 2022. This multi-application show floor feature will bring together and present a selection of the world’s leading digital signage and DooH technologies. It will be an ideal opportunity to experience the state-of-the art digital signage in action.

Great expectations: global retailers gear up for IFA 2022 For many of the world’s largest retailers and retail groups, IFA Berlin 2022 will be the first opportunity to connect at full scale with brands and manufacturers of the consumer electronics and home appliances industries. The event (2-6 September) takes place as manufacturers and brands are getting ready to roll out a new generation of innovative services and devices optimized for a world where the home has gained new importance and where many people follow new hybrid work patterns.

Retailers have told the IFA team that this year they are more eager than ever to come to Berlin, because they want to make sure that the surge of demand during the first 18 to 24 months of the pandemic will not become a one-off that subsides during the coming months. To keep the momentum going, they are keen to focus their marketing activities and reconnect with both brands and consumers.

Technology brands, meanwhile, know that their headquarter

teams have been physically cut off from most of their key partners, customers and media for more than two years now. In some regions, stringent travel restrictions made it close to impossible to rebuild personal contacts and organize face-toface meetings; this makes the need to finally rekindle contacts and rebuild social capital even more pressing.

“IFA Berlin 2022 could not come at a better time: our event gives brands and retailers a much needed and perfectly timed large-scale real-life platform to re-energize the connection between industry, retail partners and consumers worldwide”, says Jens Heithecker, IFA Executive Director and Executive Vice President, Messe Berlin Group. "This year, IFA will resume its role as a key platform for global trade. We know from all the discussions with our retail partners that they need and want to come to IFA – this year more than ever."

Comments from global retailers: Till von der Osten, Director

P28 AV News May 2022

Trading AO Germany “Without the IFA, one of the most important industry events for trade would be missing. For us, this year's event is a special highlight, because finally it is possible to experience innovation at first hand and to exchange ideas on site again. As an online retailer of household and electrical appliances this is essential for us.”

Richard Glikes, President & CCO Azione Unlimited, USA “Who in the world wouldn’t love to go to the largest electronics show in the world? I’m excited to see the latest and greatest new gear in one of the coolest cities on the planet!”

Ibrahim ALCI, Leader Produit PC, Moniteurs & Logiciels Boulanger, France “The IFA show is an essential show at European level which allows us to discover the novelties and to touch, to try the products which will come out on Christmas or at the beginning of the year. During this fair we also have the opportunity to discuss with the top management.”

Jochen Pohle, Chief Retail Officer EK/ servicegroup eG, Germany “One year without IFA is definitely one too many. Our retailers and we ourselves look forward to the international product innovations and technologies, to new trends and great infotainment.

What causes a sensation among the public in Berlin will subsequently leave its mark on local retailers. So being there means securing a competitive edge. And that's what this trade show is all about for us. In addition, we are naturally using the opportunity to present the EK range of products and services to the trade. To this end, we will be bringing our electroplus and küchenplus brand store concepts to the River Spree, among other things.”

Benedict Kober, Spokesman for the Management Board, EU-

A special event will happen on the façade of Casa Batlló on the evening of Saturday 7 May as a result of the collaboration between Refik Anadol, OFFF Barcelona – a festival of creativity, art and digital design – and ISE 2022 RONICS, Germany “Of course, we as EURONICS will again be present at the IFA with a membership stand.

Especially with a view to this year's Football World Cup, which will be played at the unusual wintertime, the year-end business in the consumer electronics sector promises to be particularly exciting. The IFA

in September is therefore very important with regard to product innovations. We will focus our appearance on our smart solutions.”