Sound & Video Contractor - September 2025

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ON THE CIRCUIT

CYNTHIA WISEHART

Editor SVC

It’s been a busy summer for acquisitions. We saw Sonance and Blaze together at InfoComm and heard more about NETGEAR’s acquisition of cybersecurity company Exium. Shortly after InfoComm, Audinate acquired the AI camera control company Iris. The NETGEAR and Audinate moves are in keeping with trends towards security and AI, and Audinate is moving ahead to further expand Dante into the whole of AV. So, logical moves for both.

Bigger news was to follow when Hall Technologies acquired the Atlona product portfolio. As a refresher, Panduit acquired Atlona in January of 2019, about a year before pandemic, so whatever the strategy for that acquisition, it no doubt went through some changes.

We’ve seen how big companies like Panduit don’t have long-lasting AV marriages; this one had a 5.5-year run, during which time Atlona continued to develop a relevant ecosystem of products for our expanding AVoIP landscape. Atlona co-founder Ilya Khayn left the company in September of 2021 nearly three years after the acquisition. (Ilya’s brother Michael, who was co-founder and VP of engineering, had left in 2020.) At the time, Atlona sales and biz dev exec Jamey Swigert moved into the Executive Director role and remains at Panduit now.

As always, I can count on my colleague Cindy Davis at AV Technology to get on the phone. Her conversation with Hall CEO Ken Eagle is worth a listen (search avnetwork.com or if you’re reading on the digital edition go here). There’s a transcript for those who prefer to read. This conversation was right after the announcement.

Ken formerly worked at Atlona for seven years, leaving in 2021, shortly before Khayn did. So Eagle comes from a broad perspective on Atlona, having worked with the co-founders and having overlapped into the Panduit acquisition. At Hall, he initially served as VP of Technology, so his experience with the technology and business history of both companies is extensive.

As the blended roadmap unfolds, the initial position is that both brands will continue. Hall-branded products will continue to develop in the medical channel, while the AV-related Hall products will gradually merge into the Atlona brand starting in 2026. In the meantime, the Hall AV products will continue as usual, and Eagle is promising a logical transition for Hall users as the brand products merge--existing sales channels, reps, and distributors will reportedly remain in place.

The other big news of summer was AVI-SPL’s acquisition by private equity company 26North from Marlin Equity (Marlin retains a minority stake). If you recall, Marlin held a majority stake during the Whitlock merger, which brought the two Marlin-owned companies together. So it goes with the AVI-SPL juggernaut.

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Again, count on Cindy to immediately get on the phone with the perennial John Zettel. If you’re reading digitally, that interview is here. The gist is all about more growth for AVI-SPL, internationally in terms of more reach, and technologically in terms of platform development, assuming for managing services. John makes clear that, unlike the more complex Marlin acquisition/ Whitlock merger, this is a more straightforward growth/resources play, as AVI-SPL makes its way towards $2b in revenue (last reported revenue for SCN

Now you can build affordable live production and broadcast systems with SMPTE-2110 video! Blackmagic Design has a wide range of 2110 IP products, including converters, video monitors, audio monitors and even cameras! You get the perfect solution for integrating SDI and IP based systems. Plus all models conform to the SMPTE ST-2110 standard, including PTP clocks and even NMOS support for routing.

Build Professional SMPTE-2110 Broadcast Systems

The Blackmagic 2110 IP Converters have been designed to integrate SDI equipment into 2110 IP broadcast systems. The rack mount models can be installed in equipment racks right next to the equipment you’re converting. Simply add a Blackmagic 2110 IP Converter to live production switchers, disk recorders, streaming processors, cameras, TVs and more.

Conforms to the SMPTE-2110 IP Video Standard Blackmagic 2110 IP products conform to the SMPTE ST-2110 standard for IP video, which specifies the transport, synchronization and description of 10 bit video, audio and ancillary data over managed IP networks for broadcast. Blackmagic 2110 IP products support SMPTE-2110-20 video, SMPTE-2110-21 traffic shaping/ timing, SMPTE-2110-30 audio and SMPTE-2110-40 for ancillary data.

Uses Simple 10G Ethernet for Low Cost

Blackmagic 2110 IP Converters are available in models with RJ-45 connectors for simple Cat6 copper cables or SFP sockets for optical fiber modules and cables. Using simple Cat6 copper cables means you can build SMPTE-2110 systems at a dramatically lower cost. Plus copper cables can remote power devices such as converters and cameras. There are also models for optical fiber Ethernet.

Incredibly Easy to Install

One of the biggest problems with SMPTE-2110 is needing an IT tech on standby to keep video systems running. Blackmagic 2110 IP converters solve this problem because they can connect point to point, so you don’t need to use a complex Ethernet switch if you don’t want to. That means you get the advantage of SMPTE2110 IP video with simple Ethernet cables, remote power and bidirectional video.

A behind the scenes look at how the Sphere is handling the sounds of Oz

1Sphere Entertainment has pulled back the curtain to give a behind the scenes look at the audio technology at work for the upcoming The Wizard of Oz show at the Sphere. Newly discovered archival material from the 1939 film is being leveraged alongside the classic score to give audiences a fully immersive step into Oz.

To take advantage of Sphere Immersive Sound’s 167,000 programmable speakers, and ability to direct sound anywhere in the venue, the original film’s mono score was re-recorded to take on new clarity via Sphere Immersive Sound, while preserving the casts’ vocal performances. The mono audio had to first be separated into individual stems of vocals, dialogue, and sound effects. This process, a collaboration between Sphere Studios and Warner Bros. Post Production Creative Services, used advanced audio technologies to create the individual components without distortion or artifact. Inside Sphere, the stems are being layered together to create a sound mix that reveals a depth and clarity unheard in the 1939 film. https://tinyurl.com/bdfutnff

Pro AV Today Most Read Stories

PRO AV TODAY From the Newsletter

Tomorrowland’s main stage destroyed by massive fire before festival

4

A massive fire broke two days before the Tomorrowland music festival in Brussels, completely decimating the festival’s main stage. Thankfully, no injuries were reported, but the fire was a monumental setback for the festival, which commonly draws over 400,000 attendees. Remarkably, the festival was able to proceed as scheduled, with organizers posting the following message hours before the event’s doors opened:

“Dear People of Tomorrow, WE ARE READY FOR YOU! Our teams are working day and night, with heart and soul, to turn the impossible into reality: Tomorrowland Belgium 2025 will open doors at 14:00. An alternative setup for the beloved Mainstage is planned to open at 16:00, pending any last-minute changes. All artists will perform as scheduled on all other stages as from 14:00. Tomorrowland will unite, stronger than ever!”

The festival was able to make use of Metallica’s European stage, which was airlifted to the event from a storage unit and assembled on-site, as reported by Rolling Stone. A DJ booth and massive LED video wall made up the remainder of the last-minute main stage, which stood in front of the visible, charred remains of the blaze.

https://tinyurl.com/2vxy3zba

Bluetooth vulnerabilities enable unauthorized eavesdropping

3

Common Bluetooth devices may be highly vulnerable to security breaches, according to German cybersecurity company ERNW. At this year’s Troopers IT conference, the security provider reported its findings that three vulnerabilities exist in the Airoha chipset, commonly used in wireless Bluetooth headphones. This security risk affects devices made by several major manufacturers, including Sony, JBL, Marshall, Jabra, and Bose.

According to ERNW, these vulnerabilities mean that attackers within Bluetooth range could potentially eavesdrop, as well as steal sensitive information including call history and contacts from a connected phone. The good news is that, in addition to needing to be within Bluetooth range, any attacker would need to possess a “high technical skill set.”

“Yes — the idea that someone could hijack your headphones, impersonate them towards your phone, and potentially make calls or spy on you, sounds pretty alarming,” says ERNW. “But this kind of attack only makes sense for high-value targets: Journalists, diplomats, political dissidents, and people in sensitive industries.”

https://tinyurl.com/u7bujbrr

Six Flags to close down California’s Great America park

5Six Flags California’s Great America will be shuttering its doors after 50 years of operation. First opening in 1975, the Santa Clara theme park has changed ownership several times, with Six Flags (then Cedar Fair) purchasing the park in 2006. The land the park is on was sold by Cedar Fair to real estate company Prologis in 2022, and, as part of the sale, the historic attraction is required to close down by June 30, 2028.

Six Flags has confirmed that they will be keeping the park open through 2027, and though technically the company has the option to extend its lease and further delay the park’s eventual closure, it is unlikely. “Unless we decide to extend, and exercise one of our options to extend that lease, that park’s last year without that extension would be after the ’27 season,” commented Six Flags Entertainment CFO Brian Witherow during the recent Six Flags Investor Day. https://tinyurl.com/2wmy9bfh

Intel CEO says it’s “too late” to catch up in the AI race

6Intel CEO Lip-Bu Tan had sobering words for his company in a leaked internal conversation.

“Twenty, 30 years ago, we were really the leader,” said Tan in a Q&A session with Intel employees. “Now I think the world has changed. We are not in the top 10 semiconductor companies.”

These remarks come after Intel ended its 25year run on the Dow Jones last year. The company was replaced by NVIDIA, whose early adoption of chips targeted at AI skyrocketed profits. Intel, who once considered acquiring NVIDIA for $20 billion, has since had a rocky path forward.

Tan also commented on NVIDIA’s dominance in AI training, with OpenAI’s ChatGPT powered exclusively with the rival company’s GPUs. “On training, I think it is too late for us,” said Tan. Instead, the CEO highlighted alternatives, including the emerging fields of edge AI and agentic AI, which forgo the cloud entirely. Tan hinted that the company is planning to capitalize on these fields with upcoming acquisitions: “Stay tuned. A few more people are coming on board.”

https://tinyurl.com/3pfbpzew

Jargon Patrol

Eric Wenocur

Lots of Numbers!

At right is a table of numerical terms encountered in pro AV, broadcast, and media that can be confusing or may be conflated with each other. Many of these are shorthand for standards established by various organizations. This list is not exhaustive!

601 (4:2:2)

ITU Rec. 601 (aka BT.601, CCIR601) standard that defines encoding and color gamut for standard definition digital video using YCbCr channels sampled at 4:2:2 (4 = 13.5MHz), ie: SD-SDI video.

709 ITU Rec. 709 (aka BT.709, CCIR709) standard that defines encoding and color gamut for high definition digital video, ie: HD-SDI video.

2020 ITU Rec. 2020 (aka BT.2020) standard that defines encoding and color gamut for UHD digital video. (Note that UHD 4K is 3840x2160 pixels, while cinematic DCI 4K is 4096x2160.)

4:4:4

4:2:2

4:1:1

4:2:0

Component digital video sampling where the luma (Y), blue (Cb) and red (Cr) channels are sampled at full rate (4 = 13.5MHz clock). Can also be fully sampled RGB.

Component digital video using chroma subsampling, where the blue (Cb) and red (Cr) channels are sampled at half the value of the Y channel.

Component digital video using chroma subsampling, where the blue (Cb) and red (Cr) channels are horizontally sampled at one quarter the value of the Y channel.

Component digital video using chroma subsampling, where the blue (Cb) and red (Cr) channels are horizontally and vertically sampled at half the value of the Y channel.

4:4:4:4 Same as 4:4:4 with added alpha (key) channel for image compositing.

508 Section 508 of the Congressional “Rehabilitation Act” that (effectively) requires federal agencies to include caption data in video content produced for government or public use.

608 EIA-608 (aka CEA-608, or “line 21” captions) standard for closed captioning in SD video.

708 EIA-708 standard for closed captioning in HD video (includes legacy 608 data).

2110 SMPTE standard ST2110 which defines transport of uncompressed digital video over IP networks. ST2110 is divided into several sub-sections for different aspects.

More numbers!

These concepts are codified in hundreds of standards and Recommended Practices from the Society of Motion Picture and Television Engineers and other international organizations.

Cloud AV News

ShureCloud

Launched last year, Shure’s cloud-enabled centralized management platform, ShureCloud enables unified control and management of Shure Microflex Ecosystem devices and IntelliMix Room DSP software licenses from a central user interface. Features include self-registration and an expanded monitored device portfolio.

The platform provides real-time remote management access so users can manage, monitor, remotely update, and control devices and licenses from anywhere. ShureCloud provides unified control and remote access for organizations of all sizes, whether managing a few devices for a small business or handling largescale deployments.

“ShureCloud is designed to facilitate streamlined management of your licenses and AV systems in the same way that you manage other enterprise devices, using familiar IT workflows, standards, and processes,” says Susy Liem, associate vice president of global product management for conferencing products at Shure. “In today’s fast-paced environment, data is a critical asset. ShureCloud provides actionable, data-driven insights that enable organizations to make informed decisions, streamline operations and enhance overall productivity.”

The foremost advantage of ShureCloud is the ability to manage all Shure devices from one platform from desktop or mobile. Device status and performance can be viewed in real-time. Users receive instant alerts of issues; the Shure Wireless Workbench Scan Library application is also now accessible within ShureCloud.

A user management application within the platform lets customers invite, manage, and control internal access to specific parts of the ShureCloud platform. Each individual user can customize the site layout and tailor the interface to meet their specific needs, highlighting key metrics and controls.

ShureCloud uses accepted standards such as

GDPR, TLS 1.2 MQTT, and HTTPS. Data encryption to ensure secure communication between devices.

Shure says more devices and features will be added, with updates to come. In the future, users will have access to historical data to identify and analyze patterns, trends, and areas for improvement. Users can go to the Shure website to register for ShureCloud.

OpenAV Cloud

In May, a coalition of AV manufacturers and technology providers announced the launch of OpenAV Cloud, a new industry initiative created to accelerate the AV industry’s transition to the cloud by promoting openness, interoperability, and customer-first innovation. Founding members include Sony Electronics, Panasonic, Legrand, Shure, BrightSign, and Xyte.

OpenAV Cloud aims to address one of the AV industry’s biggest challenges: proprietary systems. By developing open, cloud-based APIs and shared frameworks for secure data access and cross-brand compatibility, OpenAV Cloud claims to better empower manufacturers, integrators, and end users to collaborate, assuring interoperability and integration.

“Customers today expect their technology to work together seamlessly, regardless of the brand,” said Sam Sabet, CTO at Shure. “OpenAV Cloud is about collaborating to create AV solutions that are interoperable, efficient, and built for the future, ensuring we deliver top performance for our shared customers.”

“By prioritizing interoperability, OpenAV Cloud promotes greater accessibility and freedom for our customers, regardless of their preferred solution or workflow,” said Rich Ventura, vice president, professional display solutions, Sony Electronics. “We’re proudly committed to working together with other industry leaders, allowing us to jointly provide our community with a frictionless and collaborative way to streamline integrations and promote the adoption of beneficial cloud-based solutions that have the

ability to save time, resources, and money.”

The members of OpenAV Cloud commit to: meeting customer demand for flexible, interoperable solutions; building and maintaining open, read-write cloud APIs; collaborating on industry-wide standards and best practices; upholding secure, customer-controlled data access; and promoting inclusive, cross-brand collaboration.

The initiative members aspire to represent a turning point for the AV industry, which is rapidly shifting toward cloud-native solutions. The claim is that OpenAV Cloud offers a framework that supports faster deployment, easier integration, and a better overall experience for all stakeholders.

“The future of AV lies in accessibility and collaboration,” said Pamela Hoppel, president of Legrand | AV. “With OpenAV Cloud, we’re taking a collective step toward a more connected and customer-centric industry. By working together on shared standards and open APIs, we can unlock greater innovation and value for the AV ecosystem.”

The founding members invite AV manufacturers, system integrators, and managed service providers to join the initiative. Membership is free, with the goal of building a broad, inclusive community that shapes the future of AV together.

Audinate Acquires Iris

In June, Audinate announced that it has entered into an agreement to acquire Iris Studio Inc., a US company specializing in AI-powered, cloudbased camera control technology.

Iris offers a control-first video production platform that enables users to manage cameras remotely, providing features like AI-driven auto tracking, real-time color correction, and cloud recording, from a single cloud interface. These features combine with the capabilities of Dante Studio. The Iris platform is brandagnostic and is currently enabled on a wide range of PTZ cameras on the market including Lumens, PTZOptics, Marshall, BirdDog, Telycam, AIDA, and more. Beyond cameras, the Iris software platform is also applicable to encoders, decoders, mixers, and more. Iris enables OEMs

with native cloud-based control directly into their devices without the need for additional hardware.

“The addition of Iris to the Dante ecosystem is a major step forward for the Dante platform,” commented Aidan Williams, cofounder and CEO of Audinate. “Combining Iris’s broad applicability and cutting-edge remote production capabilities with powerful cloud-based management software like Dante Director will provide significant value for customers managing the millions of Danteenabled devices in the field today.”

Iris launched as a white-label service and is scheduled to launch publicly in the second half of 2025. Audinate and Iris are actively working on integrating future roadmaps to bring Iris functionality to Dante customers.

Iris’s current employees will join Audinate and will work in collaboration with Audinate’s teams.

“At Iris, we set out to rethink AV device control —intelligent, intuitive, and accessible from anywhere,” said Noah Johnson, CEO of

Iris. “Partnering with Audinate gives us the scale, reach, and deep AV expertise to accelerate our roadmap and bring our vision to the next level.”

Sennheiser

In June, Sennheiser announced an upcoming cloudbased platform designed to give AV and IT teams secure, flexible, and scalable device control across a wide range of environments and change how teams configure, monitor, and manage Sennheiser devices, from small meeting rooms to high-impact spaces. Built with remote oversight and flexibility in mind, the platform centralizes control. Created for IT and AV managers and system integrators, the platform will streamline device management across enterprise, education, and corporate

settings, whether managing large-scale installations or optimizing remote operations. AV teams can manage devices from anywhere with real-time diagnostics, alerts, and updates. Flexible account and location management features allow users to organize users and devices, while rolebased access improves collaboration and security. Set-up can be completed via a web browser, with no installation required. Built with modern IT security practices, the platform will use industrystandard encryption and authentication to protect data and devices. GDPR compliance and strict data privacy measures are part of the design.

“While still in development, our powerful cloud-based platform for AV and IT teams will make device management simpler, more flexible, and more accessible,” said Kai Tossing, head of product management, business communication, Sennheiser. “The new platform will be a significant step forward, as we take many of the benefits users of our Control Cockpit software have experienced and make them available on a broader scale.” SVC

Cable and Power

Unless you are using smoke signals, the most basic and vital foundation to effective communication systems is power and cabling. Problems with them such as insufficient circuit capacity, ground loops, and intermittent dropouts can be especially worrisome to trace down and fix. Advance preparation and appropriate equipment selection can prevent a world of trouble. Power and getting it to its destination are mission critical. The cables and power devices surveyed here show how far AV hardware manufacturers have come in answering that call.

Writer BENNETT LILES

Contributing

Editor

A very handy power component housed in a half rack-space metal chassis is the DVIGear DVI-7520-PDU. Eliminating the need for Y-cables and plug-in wall warts, this power distribution unit outputs +12 VDC power on eight outputs, each of which is rated for 24W. An MTBF of over 220,000 hours demonstrates reliability and there is an overall power reserve of 200 watts. AC power input accepts AC line voltages auto-ranging from 88 to 264 VAC and AC line frequencies from 47 to 63 Hz. Each Phoenix connector output is protected from overload, over-voltage, and overly high temperature.

Ready to carry next-gen 4K and 5K HDR content, the Wyrestorm HAOC active optical cables use an uncompressed 4-core transmission system with each core rated at 6Gbps. They’re designed to support HDR signals as they evolve to 4K/60 4:4:4 10-bit video, plus metadata. Kevlarstrengthened lines have a detachable Type-A head on the RX end.

coax and power cabling but the Belden OptiTuff Mini Fiber Cable

the crush resistance is combined with easier handling. This combination of strength and flexibility exceeds what is available in most metal armored cables. It is promoted as being 90% lighter than metal armored cable with a 70% smaller outside diameter. USB is everywhere and reliable cabling for it is in high demand. The vast array of USB devices requires an equally wide assortment and availability of connector format combinations. The Black Box USBC2TYPEB-1M is a 3.2ft. line with a USB 3.1 connector at one end and a USB 2.0 Type-B Male at the other end. This is especially useful for connecting older USB2.0 printers to more late model computers. The USBC2TYPEB-2M is the 6.5ft. version with the same connector combination. This cable can handle a charging current of 500mA.

Constructed for more than just doing its job once installed, the C2G Bulk Category Cable is made to survive the wear and tear of installation. Its inner spool design eases pulling and helps avoid tangling. Cable can be matched to the job through a range of available technologies, jacket ratings, and colors. Among these is shielded F/UTP (Foiled Unshielded Twisted Pair) that includes an integrated metal foil screen with a crosstalk/EMI reducing drain wire. The new slim packaging reduces cardboard waste and saves cable storage space.

DVIGear DVI7520-PDU

Black Box

USBC2TYPEB-

C2G Bulk Category Cable

Featuring a web-based user interface, the AtlasIED AP-S15IP power conditioner and PDU has eight outputs, and it can display voltage, current, temperature and humidity. The rear panel outputs can be scheduled to sequence ON/OFF individually or in groups on a 24-hour, 7-day schedule. Alarms can be configured to alert operators over the network or on fault contacts. Units connected to the network are automatically detected and identified. A temperature/humidity probe can be placed in the rack where desired. Fault logs can also be shown on the UI.

Among the company’s variety of Media Presentation Wall Plates, the Crestron MPWP152 allows HDMI connections to pass through partitions, presenting a Type A HDMI connector on the user side and a female HDMI connection on the back side. The device works with HD and UHD video signals with resolutions up to 4K60 4:2:0 and 4K30 4:4:4. The single-gang unit with its gold-plated connector helps prevent corrosion and intermittent contacts with HDMI’s many pins. To match room décor, it is available in white, black, or almond.

Power cabling is most vulnerable at the user connector end where it gets the most wear and tear so the FSR FL-600P floor boxes are made of sturdy metal with bottom punch-outs included. Designed for installation in carpet, tile, or wood covered floors over poured concrete applications, the boxes have a hinged flip-back cable exit door that provides access to connectors and stored cabling. Internal brackets can be arranged to provide options for both high and low voltage standard gang openings. Several box depths are available.

The Furman AC-215A compact power conditioner has two AC outlets protected by Linear Filter Technology (LiFT) and Extreme Voltage Shutdown (EVS) technology to protect any connected equipment. Transient voltages are safely absorbed, clamped, and dissipated with Furman SMP surge suppression. Furman SMP clamps at 188V AC peak, 133V AC RMS. The compact metal housing includes front panel LEDs to indicate power quality and operational status. The unit is 10A rated with a front mounted circuit breaker and large rocker style power switch. Made for extending USB 3.0/3.1 Gen1 and

distances at data rates of up to 5Gbps, the Hall Technologies CUSB3V1-AP* is the company’s USB 3.0 Javelin Active Optical Plenum Cable with Regulated Power. Components at the receiving end can count on precise regulated 5V output power at up to 900mA. A light-weight hybrid of fiber and copper, the cable has a flexible bend radius of 0.3in. and the small cable ends significantly aid installation. These cables are available in lengths ranging from 49 to 328ft. Juggling power bugs and batteries isn’t necessary with the Hosa Technology ACD-477 Universal Power Adapter and its auto-detection of AC input from 100 to 240V. A surface switch configures it for DC output of 3, 4.5, 6, 7.5, 9, or 12V and there are six interchangeable output connectors to assure compatibility with many DC powered products. The adapter also provides a green LED to indicate proper operation and shortcircuit protection (SCP). For easier storage and damage prevention there is a folding AC input connector.

Crestron MP-

FSR FL-600P

Furman AC215A

For a rack-mounted design with high-power distribution capacity there is the Juice Goose JG11-20. Providing eleven AC receptacles rated at 15A each, the whole unit is rated at 20A. The rear panel has nine outputs that are switched in addition to one unswitched. The front has a single unswitched AC connection. Placement is made easier by the 15ft. power cable and a fast-acting metal oxide varistor (MOV) clamps voltage between the power cable and each neutral. The level of AC line interference transmitted between these is also reduced by a capacitor.

The Kramer C−HM/HM/PRO premium highspeed HDMI cable is equipped with triple-shield bonded pairs and K-Lock connectors for assured transmission quality. These lines can handle video up to 4K@60Hz (4:4:4) at data rates as high as 18Gbps and the cables are terminated with 24K gold-plated, corrosion-resistant connectors. Plenum certified as far as 15ft. and equipped with a triple overall shield against EMI/RFI interference, they are available in 3, 6, 10, 15, 25, 35, 50 and 65ft. lengths. Audio formats supported include Dolby Digital Plus, Dolby TrueHD, DTS–HD Master Audio, DVD Audio, and SA-CD.

One rack-mount PDU with output connectors spaced to allow wall wart DC power units to connect on the rear panel is the Lowell Manufacturing ACSPR-2009. The status of its TCR triple clamping redundant protection is monitored and indicated on front panel LEDs. The large, illuminated rocker switch beside them controls five rear outlets while the front and three of the rear outlets are unswitched. This product comes with a 9ft. attached cord terminated with a NEMA 5-20P

shows on the road, the new LynTec Dual Output DMX Relay has a 20A input that can pass through to a single output or be used to split the load between both of its outputs. This tough little unit can be mounted in a variety of places including road cases and trusses. When it senses a DMX signal it turns on automatically, but the onboard RDM functionality can be manually used with DMX addressing to control each output separately. Each unit is CE certified.

Globally extending power control is a special feature of the Middle Atlantic NEXSYS Online UPS Series with RackLink. This puts power control at the user’s fingertips on the device in their hands. Device-level control is directly provided through the RackLink Cloud customizable dashboard interface. Among the features is zero transfer

time and the powerful capability of individual outlet and outlet bank control. The 3000VA models also include an additional NEMA L5-30R outlet that is always on. Customized settings and notifications are done through NEXSYS Power Management Software.

Middle Atlantic NEXSYS Online UPS Series

Kramer C-HM/HM/ PRO

Juice Goose JG11-20A

LynTec Dual Output DMX Relay

Lowell Manufacturing ACSPR-2009

One of the most rugged, road tested, and reliable connections for vital, live show power, the Neutrik PowerCON XX Series twist-lock connectors gets and keeps electric power going to all of its intended destinations. The chassis connectors meet requirements of the IEC 60320-1 and the UL 60320-1 with breaking capacity (CBC). They carry three contacts for line, neutral and premating safety ground. Cable input connectors also bear the familiar blue label while output lines

The Cleerline SSF Drop Cable is designed with a 4.8mm jacket to provide very high strength to suit a wide range of applications. Each line is terminated with premium Senko SC APC connectors and handling is facilitated through its Soft Peel 250µm acrylate coating. The very high bend tolerance and aramid water-blocking yarns allow this cable to work for indoor and outdoor installations, including riser spaces and duct placements.

Detachable Connectors facilitate installation

Lengths from 10-330 ft. (3-100m)

Neutrik PowerCON XX Series

of DC-powered devices and systems, particularly in home automation, has demanded new and sophisticated DC power distribution and control. The Nice DC12-IP is designed to not only

One of the more innovative approaches to clean signal transportation is active optical cable and the Opticis USC-CC32 2x1 Type C active optical cable takes USB at 10Gbps as far as 50ft. It does this while delivering 100W power at 33ft. or 60W at 50ft. for powering and charging devices at the far end. Equipped with USB Type C male-to-male connectors, the active cable is compatible with USB 2.0 and 1.1 standards and supports DisplayPort Alt mode 4K@60Hz on two DisplayPort lanes.

Knowing exactly what is happening within the power is essential and the Whirlwind PLpower meter tells the whole story while monitoring voltage, current, and frequency on 3-phase Y power with three 120V AC legs or single-phase AC with two 120V legs. Line-toneutral and line-to-line voltages as well as line current values are measured and shown along with neutral-to-ground voltage and line frequency. All this can also be monitored remotely through any Ethernet LAN, internet, and on the phone app.

AC distribution. The extruded aluminum chassis can absorb all the banging around expected in road shows. Each box provides two 20A duplex Edison receptacles and has a 15A total current rating.

When the power suddenly stops coming, the Snap One WB-OVRC-OLUPS-1000-1 WattBox Double Conversion UPS seamlessly takes over because its inverter is already supplying the connected equipment load. This 2RU rack device features advanced system monitoring and configuration with the user able to daisy-chain up to five extended battery packs. The WattBox user interface allows operators to monitor battery health and charge percentage along with backup run time, and there are options for custom loadshedding to extend power to the most critical loads. Battery health notification alerts facilitate proactive battery replacement.

ProCo RMSTPCONAB-4AC

Snap One WB-OVRCOLUPS-1000-1

One ongoing source of unnecessary wear and tear on expensive amp/speaker systems is loud pops caused by turning on the amp first and then the gear at the inputs. To make sure things are powered up in the right order there are power sequencers such as the SurgeX SEQ. This model has 14 rear panel outlets in 4 groups and an additional 2 that are always on. The front features a large LCD screen used to display system status. There is also a 12VDC output to control other equipment. Units can be daisy-chained and there is a wide range of other sequencing functions along with remote control of this device.

For DC power distribution, the Thinklogical PDU-12 offers twelve 5V 4A DC outputs and redundant AC/DC load sharing power supplies. Each of the twelve DC outputs has a locking power output connector. There are twin system status and fan indicators on the front panel along with two AC/DC status LEDs on the back. The two redundant, hot-swappable AC/DC power supplies are capable of load sharing and each can handle 100240VAC at a frequency of 50-60Hz. The back of the unit also has a phoenix connector for a dry contact alarm connection.

The Tripp Lite PDUMH30AT Automatic Transfer Switch PDU delivers 24A single phase power with separate primary and secondary inputs. This 2RU component provides redundant power through two banks of 5-15/20R outlets and a single L5-30R outlet. There is fast 1-5 millisecond switching between primary and secondary inputs. A front panel display shows output amps in four segments, kW power consumption, and input voltage. Also on the front panel, LEDs confirm power availability on both input lines. Each output bank has its own breaker.

SurgeX SEQ

Tripp Lite PDUMH30AT Automatic

Thinklogical PDU-12

TECH SHOWCASE Furniture & Mounts

Furniture & Mounts

Apolished installation includes the appearance of the rooms in use. The right furniture and mounts communicate organization, technical competence, and an attitude toward high standards. Ergonomic technical furniture that supports users and mounts that support use and maintenance, are all part of the pride and professionalism of a Pro AV environment. Here are some of the current professional options.

Writer

CYNTHIA

WISEHART

Chief editor

Former theme park designer

InfoComm saw the debut of the Arthur Holm DB3Talk and Arthur Holm DynamicCL ranges. Designed for smooth boardroom integration, the DB3Talk retractable monitor series ensures minimal impact on table aesthetics, while offering an adjustable tilt angle for perfect visibility. The solution features a retractable gooseneck microphone, USB-C cable and camera, as well as interactive touchscreen capabilities. The DynamicCL enables a Neat Center camera to rise from a desk. Engineered for smooth and silent movement, the solution enhances remote collaboration while maintaining an uncluttered workspace.

Peerless-AV SEAMLESS

gear mechanism make compensating for wall irregularities almost effortless. Structural strength and load capacity are also significantly increased.

Also at InfoComm, the new Peerless-AV SEAMLESS Connect Universal dvLED Mounting System debuted. With a 1.6″ (40mm) depth, it is the slimmest universal mount available and offers enhanced functionality for flat-to-wall and inside/outside corner-wrapping dvLED video walls. This newly engineered mount offers broad compatibility with virtually all latching dvLED displays and scales to any size or configuration. Its 1.6″ (40mm) Z-axis adjustment and improved

The mount’s unique quick-connect clamp has been redesigned with a built-in lock/unlock lever for secure latching and its reinforced load capacity means installers can now ‘skip’ rows of extrusion, speeding up installation by 50% or more. The reusable, patent-pending spacer (sold separately) simplifies horizontal spacing and works as a caliper for custom sizes. With a built-in level the spacer ensures precise alignment and is now significantly lighter for greater ease of use. Furthermore, the new wall mount is ADA-compliant with the largest diversity of cabinets and comes with end caps and optional trim kit (LEDTK) for polished edges.

The new Spectrum Industries CTRL Production Station has customizable mounting options, integrated cable management, and a heavy duty, ergonomic design. The workstation supports editing, producing, or live streaming. It ensures clean and structured cable routing with integrated brush brackets and grommets throughout. An optional Unitto-Unit Kit combines two workstations into a single, cohesive setup; it’s available in Duo or Trio sizes in

Arthur Holm DynamicCL

Arthur Holm DB3Talk

Spectrum Industries CTRL

Furniture & Mounts TECH

single, double, and triple widths.

The monitor mount channel is designed for flexible placement of monitor arms and peripherals and the workstation has many other adjustable features and locking options to secure expensive equipment. Worksurfaces with heavy-duty magnets are simple to install and rearrange. An optional, extra-large CPU Sling accommodates large computers and helps keep worksurfaces free from clutter. It comes in numerous Expressions laminate finish options; metal comes standard in black.

In April, the Winsted Pinnacle Technology Furniture collection expanded with a new console featuring the industry’s first-ever sliding worksurface. This breakthrough design provides instant access to critical wiring and components, for continuous operation in mission-critical environments. The Pinnacle expanded collection—including technology cabinets, drawers, credenzas, peninsulas, and conference tables—is engineered for flexibility and security. New enhancements to the range include integrated technology cabinets with front/rear access and available with optional worksurfaces and 11U 19″ equipment racks. New drawer cabinets and credenzas, technology-integrated tables with builtin cable management up to 20’ provide new form factors. Power-actuated sit/

stand adjustable height options offer broader ergonomic support. Pinnacle’s three-tier cable management system ensures a clutter-free workspace, with dedicated routing pathways and full-width mesh trays.

Attaching multiple displays to a ceiling is a simple matter using the 48lb. Premier Mounts ECM-D70T ceiling mount. Displays up to 175lbs. can be easily mounted in landscape or portrait orientation with 360 degrees of swivel and 15-degree tilt. These mounts feature integrated cable management for a clean and pro look. Optional brackets allow mini-PCs, digital media players and servers to be attached. Extending down from the ceiling, the unit fits a 2in. NPT extension pipe.

One of the least pro-looking things is cable clutter and the Altinex TNP327C has it solved

The new CrimsonAV ADCSP Component Storage Panel is designed to house media players, power supplies, and accessories to eliminate clutter when paired with CrimsonAV mounts. Slotted holes and cable tie points make for clean installs, tool-free access and slim heavy-duty steel form are installer friendly, as is the seamless pairing with CrimsonAV fixed, tilt, and articulating mounts.

and then disappears into a table, podium, or tech credenza. Providing up to 12 amps from its power outlets, the unit’s snap-in panels can accommodate audio, video, network, and USB connections to suit the user’s specific needs. Once the work is done, the clean look is enhanced as the top sinks down nearly flush with the mounting surface which can be up to 2.25in. deep.

The AtlasIED Atmosphere AZMP8-DW Dante-enabled DSP and audio control system platform has a unique on-wall form factor. This allows the AZMP8-DW to be conveniently mounted on a wall and replaces the need for a traditional equipment rack. The integrated locking cabinet is provided with room for peripheral

Winstead Pinnacle

Mounts ECM-D70T

TECH SHOWCASE Furniture & Mounts

devices such as network switch or music streamer. Amplifier power sharing technology allows for efficient use of available power and avoiding system overdesign due to traditional amplifier power ratings. The AZMP8-DW is compatible with all seven of the Atmosphere wall plate accessories for control, remote audio input, and ambient noise sensing. Up to 16 of these plug-and-play Accessories can be connected across 4 accessory ports on the AZMP8-DW. Racks are just racks, right? Well, not exactly. In high-use environments, they can take a beating and heavy-duty construction matters. The AtlasIED 300 Series shows why. The basic 335-15 model provides three 16-gauge CRS sections which include a 2in. deep, solid-steel front door, a 12in. or 15in. deep center section with adjustable mounting rails and a 4.5in. deep rear door. Equipment in sizes of 7 to 35RU can be used and there is capability for custom cabinet mounting, wire management, and structural support. All units are finished in #962 black epoxy. Internal cable raceways are standard and the back face of the rear section includes 1⁄4in. deep boss detents to facilitate custom plywood, aluminum, or steel sub-plate installation.

Infinitely customizable for the specific facility, the Argosy Console Eclipse line enables a wide range of equipment to be easily reached, logically organized and efficiently operated in a

The new Legrand | AV On-Q 15-inch Plastic Enclosure features a 6.2-inch interior depth; it is designed to accommodate all networking components, including larger components like ISP modems and routers. Made in the USA, the ABS enclosure features WIFI-transparent material to ensure strong connectivity, while offering easy installation with a one-piece trim ring and universal mounting grid that is ideal for managing complex home network wiring. It is UL listed. The 15-inch Plastic Enclosure provides a new size option featuring the same hinged door and an updated, single-piece, deep trim ring. The onepiece trim ring and included T15 star bit with four cabinet screws enable quick, hassle-free installation. The enclosure’s knockouts provide efficient cable management and compatibility with standard plastic and Single Gang Old Work Electrical Boxes. A universal mounting grid

PD51 Mobile Instructor Station is a marvel of versatility with enough room on top for monitors, laptops, and controllers. If more surface room is needed, the top console can be removed. Inside there is 14RU ventilated, pull-out rack space and interior shelf space for PC housing or storage, all secured with locking access doors. Between the rack space and the work surface is a wide keyboard shelf. The thermowrap surface and body finish are resistant to chipping and scratches while the heavy-duty casters make the unit easy and safe to roll around. For ease in moving big displays for mobile instruction and conferencing, the Avteq DynamiQ Flex 400 height adjustable cart

AtlasIED 300 Series

Argosy Console Eclipse

Audio Visual Furniture

Furniture & Mounts TECH SHOWCASE

has the solution. The universal VESA interface bracket can be mounted at two fixed heights to accommodate a range of school grades and conference room sizes. The easy glide mount allows the display to easily move up and down with a slight touch. Supporting displays up to 86in. diagonal, the stand uses durable 2in. casters, two of which have brakes. These fit onto a 47in. wide base to provide a firm but mobile foundation for the large displays. The stand suits load capacity up

For conference settings, the height-adjustable mobile cart for Cisco Boards is designed for hybrid and collaborative environments. The spring-weighted, height adjustable mount allows the Cisco Board to glide vertically by 15.75 inches with a slight touch of the hand. In addition, the DynamiQ RPS-500 provides an adjustable rack-mounted shelf that is ideal for small laptops, touch panels, or other devices.

Draper Foundation Mount System supports standard sizes for several LED brands including select models from Samsung, LG, Sony, Absen, Barco, Neoti, Unilumin, Christie, and more, many of them available to ship within 10 days of purchase order. For those brands that are not already supported, Draper can easily develop a new Foundation. Foundation’s unique design means new standard versions and sizes can be created very quickly on a project basis. In fact, the Foundation Mount System can be ordered for nearly any LED panel on the market with a slightly

is an updated version of its modular LX line of monitor arms. The LX Pro is available in black, gray, and white, with options for desk or wall

Pro features Ergotron’s Constant Force technology, which allows for smooth movement and positioning. It includes a rotation stop to prevent damage to walls and partitions, improved cable management, and a built-in tension indicator to maintain tautness settings. Notable upgrades in the LX Pro include an increased tilt range, an updated weight range to support lighter monitors, and enhanced joint stability Pricing for the LX Pro starts at $209, depending on the selected options.

The perfect finishing touch on a conference room table or other AV furniture is the Extron Hideaway HSA 822. Providing easy attachment to a wide range of AV connectors plus power, the HSA 822 can include an RJ45 bezel kit that is used to color code Ethernet connections. The US enclosure is UL/C-UL listed and when not in use it can be pushed down to hide with the top nearly flush with the work surface. A second press allows the assembly to gently rise and be fully ready to use.

The Legrand | AV Middle Atlantic Forum Lectern is part of the company’s award-winning configurable AV furniture product line,

Draper Foundation Mount System

Ergotron LX Pro

HSA 822

Avteq DynamiQ Flex 400

TECH SHOWCASE Furniture & Mounts

Forum Collaboration Suite. Compliant with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), the electrically height-adjustable Forum Lectern is perfectly suited for higher education and training or presentation spaces. It offers customization to fit any space, like logo panels, worksurface options, and colorways. It is available in 42-inch, 60- inch, and 72-inch widths and in four colorways: Wilsonart Designer White, white powder coat, silver gray acoustic felt; Wilsonart Asian Night, graphite powder coat, charcoal gray acoustic felt; Wilsonart Biltmore Cherry, magnesium powder coat, charcoal gray acoustic felt; and Wilsonart Kensington Maple, magnesium powder coat, silver gray acoustic felt. The lectern can be configured with a flat worksurface or Turret worksurface. The Turret worksurface includes a Presenter’s Panel to mount touch screens, clock timers, microphones, and more. The offering also includes worksurface power options from A. & H. Meyer as well as with Schuko plugs and outlets. There is an optional matching 12RU, 16RU or 20RU side rack and 6RU under-worksurface mounted rack for extra rackmount storage. It is compatible with Chief monitor arms and features a customizable logo panel option for branding the lectern with the school or organization’s logo

The Lowell NR4PA Series is made for projects requiring more stability than two post racks and where the exact depth for the ideal footprint is undetermined. The EIA/TIA and TAA compliant NR4PA rack is available in two depth ranges, 24–36 inches or 36–42 inches. Set-up is easy referencing small windows on the side supports, which clearly indicate selected depth. Double

sided, three-inch deep vertical channel rails are tapped 12-24 and have a printed rack unit scale, which also helps with installation and set-up. The NR4PA rack features numerous tie-off points and passthrough cable holes. The angled base supports have holes to add anchors, if needed to secure the rack to the floor for additional stability or code compliance. Heavy duty 12-gauge U.S. steel construction and a load capacity of 800 lbs. make them appropriate for telecommunications, equipment rooms, and similar networking applications. Made in the America with certified U.S. steel and a smooth black powder epoxy finish, NR4PA racks ship unassembled.

The Marshall ELCO-25 and ELCO-32 FLEX Style Lecterns are ideal for situations when your space is limited but your AV is not. Both sizes are primed with a variety of standard features and AV personalization options to suit varied presentation needs. The ELCO-25 and ELCO-32 can serve as an AV lectern, speaker lectern, or made mobile for flex classrooms. The ELCO-25 and 32 ship fully assembled with two available lead times depending on finish choice from 24 melamine colors.

Made of high-grade cold rolled steel and aluminum with durable epoxy powder coat finish, the Mustang AV MPA-L64UF professional articulating mount fits 37 to 75in. displays up to 130lbs. and features adjustable universal VESA mounting hole patterns. Depending on display size, the mount can pivot between 40 and 180 degrees. The mounts can attach to double wood stud structures, structural concrete and cinder

Marshall ELCO-25

Lowell NR4PA Series

Legrand | AV Middle Atlantic Forum Lectern

pre-assembled, and all models include a wall template and a unique balanced smooth-tilt feature, along with covers and cord management.

The Snap One Carbon Series expands the Strong range for overhead digital signage installations of displays up to 100 inches diagonal and up to 500 pounds in weight. For ceiling-mount installation, Partners can purchase steel I-beam mounts, wood joist mounts, and numerous ceiling plates including an anti-vibration model. They can also opt for a 60-inch fixed drop pole, various lengths of adjustable drop poles, mounting boxes with cable management systems, and mounting struts and arms for displays up to 100 inches. A typical solution consists of a ceiling mount bracket and a separately sold drop pole, mounting box, mounting strut, and TV mounting arms. Landscape and portrait mounting arms can support up to 100-inch displays with various VESA mount sizes. The arms can support up to 125-pound displays. Wall-mount installation is also possible using the Carbon Series Menu Board Wall Bracket. Additionally, preconfigured units are available as well for quicker shopping and introduction to the product line.

Displays from 32 to 80in. can be right at home on the Tripp Lite DWM3270XOUT outdoor fullmotion TV wall mount with its fully articulating arm. Featuring a tilt of -20 to +10 degrees and -90 to +90-degree swivel, the mount has durable steel construction to support displays up to 110lbs. Display cables attach to the arm to allow clutter-free movement. The weatherproof steel frame, high-grade powder-coated finish, stainless steel hardware and wall plate covers allow the mount to withstand the rigors of outdoor use.

The tvONE ONErack 6RU Standard Kit speeds and simplifies the rack mounting of small equipment items by providing common power to all components. Separate power supplies are a thing

2 voltage selectors on each module. Each of these can provide a wide range of power for equipment from any manufacturer. Among its optional accessories are dualredundant (450w) PSU, additional mounting modules, covers and a cable management system.

One of the more challenging decisions in conference room design and production video can be the placement of the PTZ camera so that it has a clear but unobtrusive view. The Vaddio Drop Down Mount for Large PTZ Cameras - Long Series can hang the camera straight down from the ceiling, keeping it out of the way while it’s in the center of the action. This model fits the Sony HD1, WallVIEW PRO HD1, and WallVIEW CCU HD1. It is also compatible with Polycom EagleEye HD, EagleEye I, EagleEye II, and EagleEye III, Cisco Precision HD and Precision 60, Sony EVI-HD1, EVI-HD3V, and EVIHD7V, Lumens VCB30U, and 1 Beyond AutoTracker 3.

TECH SHOWCASE

Mustang AV MPA-L64UF

tvONE ONErack 6RU

Vaddio Drop Down Mount

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Lobbies, showrooms, and experience centers

ro AV providers and manufacturers are also corporate entities, and image matters, both figuratively and literally. When it comes to their headquarters, lobbies, and showrooms, the power of AV is the central message, and sound, image, and hands-on reality can speak louder than any sales pitch.

Over the last 30-plus years, CCS Presentation Systems grew from two employees to over 350 with offices in 17 states. When CCS designed and built a new national headquarters in Mesa, AZ, it was designed to not only serve employees but showcase the company’s capabilities and services. The lobby in particular was a focus, so CCS turned to technology partner Sharp to design the main feature of the large space, a 90-degree wraparound dvLED wall. With a detailed vision in mind, Sharp, CCS, and design agency OpenEye Global collaborated to bring the lobby to life.

So how to best captivate visitors and provide the best possible visual experience as soon as individuals came through the doors? It was imperative that the technology operated perfectly, obviously, and communicated the company’s aesthetics. The team knew a traditional corporate lobby design wouldn’t work.

The team used two direct-view LED walls featuring the NEC LED-FE015i2 1.5mm pixel pitch modules to make the 90-degree, wrap-around corner unit. “We were really aiming for a ‘wow’ factor,” said CCS’ Chief Marketing Officer Julie Solomon. “In our line of business, visuals are key.”

Capitalizing on immersive technology, OpenEye Global’s Senior Creative Producer, Douglas Dowson, liked the way NEC’s dvLED displays rendered content and how it appeared seamlessly and clearly across the large canvas. The pastiche of beautiful nature interspersed with AV product highlight reels create a distinctive first impression for CCS.

“From epic nature scenes to a forced perspective brand highlight, this 90-degree design completely invigorated the space,” said Dowson.

“As soon as people walk into the building, it’s the first thing they see, and the first thing they compliment,” noted Solomon. “It’s just so incredibly striking.”

The environment also offers the perfect setting for hosting events and seminars with highly collaborative and modern features, including a two-story lobby opening out to a multi-functional indoor/outdoor café event space and training center. Large glass movable walls and an oversized garage door led to an outdoor amenity patio that can quickly transform the area into an event space large enough for more than 250 guests with the LED wall visible from various locations and angles, providing a content centerpiece that keeps the brand image alive within the space.

Sometimes a branded space needs to be a kind of worksurface where visitors can wrap their heads around the experience of AV technology and delve into hands-on details.

Extron maintains a growing portfolio of experience centers worldwide. This time, however, the new experience is an Event Center at the mothership, on campus at the company’s global headquarters in Anaheim.

The main presentation room features a pair of stunning videowalls featuring Daktronics direct-view Chip on Board (COB) LED displays, both enabled by the Extron Quantum Ultra II 8K videowall processor. The Event Center is equipped with a full NAV AV-overIP system with over 175 endpoints, audio solutions featuring Extron amplifiers and speakers, control via TouchLink Pro touchpanels, streaming with SMP technology, and dynamic content switching using the ISS 608. With intelligent theatrical lighting and

multiple PTZ cameras, the center is engineered to provide an integrated AV experience for any event or demonstration.

Also featured are two application-specific demonstration spaces. The C2 Theatre simulates a command and control environment with a videowall that can be used to present content from dual-display workstations, video servers, and NTPsynchronized virtual clocks with multiple time zones.

The Esports Suite features five gaming stations with player cameras which can be presented on the room display, or at the shoutcaster desk for annotated, play-by-play commentary.

“Our new Event Center was designed to help people and ideas reach their fullest potential with the help of AV technology.,” said Casey Hall, Chief Marketing Officer at Extron.

In addition to the presentation room and demonstration spaces, the Extron Anaheim Event Center features a dedicated New Product Showcase where guests can explore the latest Extron products through hands-on demonstrations. Extron expert technology specialists are on-site to provide personalized product insights, showcase capabilities, and answer any questions. With versatile room layouts, interactive product demo spaces, and integrated streaming capabilities, the venue is ready to host all kinds of events, from product launches to industry summits for Extron and its industry partners.

Big Drama

One of the more outrageous showrooms in Europe, the ARLED Cinema space in Stockelsdorf, Germany doesn’t hold back. The Movie Core Room is a futuristic study in blue, integrating the largest infrasonic subwoofer in the world (ASCENDO) with the world’s first 8K 144 Hz LED screen with 92% REC.2020 and BARCO Nerthus. Additional products come from Christie, MAG Cinema, madVR Envy, Futurestone, ARLED PRO Series LED-Screen, and Vorwerk.

For Absen’s newest experience center, which opened in March in New York, partnerships are front and center with a focus on both high-drama imagery and interoperability. The 2,694-squarefoot facility provides hands-on product demonstrations, technical training, and industry collaboration opportunities.

The experience center showcases Absen’s most advanced direct-view LED solutions with in-depth

looks at a wide range of Absen LED series options, including high-resolution 0.9 and 1.2mm pixel pitch, an all-in-one interactive LED, curved LED solutions, ultra-fine visualization options, an array of digital signage options, and options for rental and staging.

Alongside are a wealth of partners, including Yealink, TSI Touch, Rocket Alumni Solutions touch, Haivision Command 360 for operation and command centers, B-Tech AV mounts, tvONE’s CALICO PRO, and Green Hippo’s Hippotizer Media

Servers, as well as showcased applications of Brompton Technology’s Tessera S8 LED video processor. These strategic partnerships will enhance the visitor experience by demonstrating real-world applications of integrated LED display solutions.

The center will support live product demonstrations, technical training sessions, and industry networking events that immerse people in the dvLED ecosystem.

While a highly visible show of technology can tell an AV company’s story, sometimes a showroom serves to emphasize the invisible role of technology, demonstrating how experiences can be created in unseen ways.

When L-Acoustics opened their Experience Center in Highgate, London, they initially went for a dazzling show of technical force in the historical building. “L-Acoustics purchased the building 10 years ago,” says Nick Fichte, business development director, home & yacht, global for L-Acoustics. “It was an old Royal Mail Postal Service sorting office that was used as a local depot for sending mail and parcels and whatnot. It was later converted into an architect’s practice and so on until we took it on.

“For us, it originally started life as a research and development facility for our L-ISA immersive audio technology, but the space was more targeted in its look and feel toward our pro audio customers. The speakers and subwoofers were on show. It was all integrated, and there was nice artwork and furniture, but there were still 18 speakers and 36 subwoofers in a room that had blue neon lights on them when you walked in. What we found is that, when you took architects, interior designers, or end users into that space, they felt overwhelmed and panicked about, ‘Where am I going to hide all these speakers and subwoofers?’”

When the design process for the re-imagined space was started, it was led heavily by L-Acoustics Founder and President Christian Heil, who partnered with French interior designer Lyne B and the U.K.-based design and interior fit-out company Cinema Luxe, which specializes in cinema rooms and recording studios.

The renovated space has resulted in a HYRISS

(HyperReal Immersive Sound Space), which is a collection of L-Acoustics offerings — from design, loudspeakers, subwoofers, amplification, processing and software — that make a single, flexible solution that can handle a high-end 2-channel listening environment to a full immersive experience, and everything in between.

The large, moody, rectangular space has couches assembled around a television at one end and tables and chairs at the other. There are 16 Soka ultra-shallow in-wall loudspeakers throughout the room. The media area features a 98-inch Samsung television with an L-Acoustics X8i coaxial point-source speaker below it, which acts as a center channel. The low end is handled by 34 SB10 subwoofers, while 6-inch X6i coaxial point speakers provide the height channels.

“It’s like a grid,” says Fichte. “You have constant sound coverage wherever you are in that space because you’re never far away from a loudspeaker, which means that you never feel as if you’re in a dark spot. The L-ISA Processor also allows us to change the orientation of the content to any position within the room, so when we are watching a movie on the big screen we want to hear that Dolby Atmos soundtrack just as the director intended it, maybe when we are listening to Atmos Music from the Apple TV without the screen we want to be seated in a different part of the room; a simple UI on an iPad means we can move sound, whether it be mono, stereo, or Atmos, to any part of the space.

“That’s something that we’re really trying to get across to people — like lighting design for

a space, they need to make sure there are no dark spots with the audio. Especially with the systems integrators, they’re used to talking to their clients for years about having different scenes for different times of day and how they want to use that space. This is exactly the same thing, but you’re doing it with sound. So, you can paint your room with sound and light, and you can integrate the two systems. When you recall that scene for your lighting, you’re also recalling the same scene for sound.”

These are tough concepts to get across without people experiencing them, so everything is oriented to spark the imagination for spatial sound. “One of the main attributes of HYRISS is that it can take a traditional stereo track and then, using a technology called Anima, spatialize it,” Fichte explains. “And I use the word ‘spatialize’ and not ‘upmix’ because it’s using machine learning and AI to pick apart whatever is coming into it live and literally separating each element of that music. There’s no center of the room anymore — wherever you are in that room, you’re in the sweet spot. The whole room becomes a sweet spot.”

While the playback capabilities of the HYRISS system are impressive, it can also enhance a live performance in the space, which it did at the Highgate Experience Center’s grand opening with a pianist entertaining the guests.

“As well as Anima, HYRISS has another technology from L-Acoustics called Ambiance, which works using a grid of microphones in the ceiling,” says Fichte. “We have eight microphones in the ceiling that are connected to our P1 processors, which in turn are connected to the L-ISA Processor. By using a control system, you can recall different presets. With Ambiance technology, we can recall a preset called ‘Concert Hall,’ and the technology will amplify the natural acoustics of the room. It can change completely how that space behaves. We have different signature presets — Concert Hall, Theater, Cave, Cathedral — and every single one sounds slightly different, and it plays with your mind completely, making you feel instantly like you are somewhere else.”

VIDEOWALLS

Virtual Volumes

At the grand opening of the Versatile AI Virtual Film Base in Deqing county, China, the world’s largest monolithic LED virtual production stage was officially unveiled. Jointly developed by Absen and Versatile, the stage features a 270-degree curved LED screen with a diameter of 50 meters and a height of 12 meters. The total floor area of the stage reaches 5,000 square meters, with the LED display covering approximately 1,700 square meters – equivalent to four standard basketball courts.

Powered by LED virtual production technology, the recreation of complex, large-scale, and costly scenes in film and television can now be achieved through a combination of virtual environments and minimal physical sets. Scene changes can be completed within minutes, and when paired with immersive 8K LED walls and realistic lighting, the shooting experience becomes highly authentic. This significantly enhances both production efficiency and visual immersion, offering industrialized support for content creation that traditional on-location shoots simply cannot match. These breakthroughs include HDR rendering, accurate color reproduction, high frame rates, high refresh rates, and the mitigation of moiré and aliasing effects during close-up shooting.

Absen has maintained a long-term partnership with Versatile, with both parties accumulating extensive experience in the field of virtual production. During the implementation of this landmark project, the two technical teams worked in close coordination, from early-stage planning and tackling key technical challenges to on-site installation and calibration.

At the Indianapolis Motor Speedway Museum (IMSM) a much smaller screen has big impact on visitor experience through immersive visual storytelling., as Absen’s NX Series LED displays bring over a century of racing history to life with archival race footage, interactive content, and real-time data. Absen partnered with Draper to support the screens in this unique configuration.

Fish Bowl

Arizona’s OdySea Aquarium is a multi-level, state-of-the-art facility offering immersive, educational, and entertaining experiences for guests of all ages. As one of the 10 largest aquariums in the U.S., it’s home to more than 6,000 animals, 300 species, and 70 exhibits.

Now, guests to the aquarium begin their underwater journey as they enter OdySea’s lobby space, courtesy of a new, immersive, 360-degree projection mapping experience that transforms the lobby with marine life and ocean sounds. Malvern Entertainment created six original animated sequences that transport guests to the heart of the ocean, which are projection-mapped onto the 23-foot walls of the oval-shaped lobby and integrate with live fish.

OdySea selected 12 Christie HS Series laser projectors, Pandoras Box Software and Servers, and Mystique, an automated camera-based alignment and recalibration solution, to create the experience. The 3D workspace feature in Pandoras Box is used in conjunction with Mystique to calculate the position of the projectors in the room and mask content from areas including the escalator, doors, and massive Aqua Globe fish tanks that are suspended from the lobby’s ceiling.

Beyond the lobby, a 16 x 9-foot Christie 2.5mm pixel pitch LED video wall with Full HD resolution brings ocean-themed visuals to the aquarium’s café.

The project was integrated by CCS Presentation Systems and posed some unique challenges. In addition to projection mapping around the nine massive Aqua Globes, each filled with live fish, CCS worked closely with The Power Group, which was brought onboard to manage the electrical needs for the project, including a power upgrade.

“This lobby installation was incredibly ambitious and pushed our team’s creativity and precision,” said Paul Gallagher, Account Executive, CCS Presentation Systems. “From the complex projection mapping and immersive audio to solving some tricky power challenges, we made sure every element worked exactly as promised. It’s a perfect example of how technology can truly become an experience.”

The result is a truly immersive, one-of-a-kind aquarium experience.

“We want guests to feel like they’re in the middle of the deep blue sea the second they walk in. Not watching it—in it,” says Amram Knishinsky, CEO, OdySea Aquarium. “It’s no longer just a lobby—it’s a portal to the ocean.”

LED Looking Glass

Adjacent to Mission Marque Plaza, the World Heritage Center (WHC) is a nearly 6,000-square-foot museum and visitor center, part of the City of San Antonio’s strategy to create a community hub that includes many other planned improvements to the area. G&A describes the new WHC as a gateway to history, culture, and community. It’s designed to honor the rich heritage of the San Antonio Missions while serving as a dynamic space for both locals and visitors; it weaves together storytelling, architecture, and technology to connect the past with the present and inspire future generations.

SNA Displays and BBI Engineering were selected to provide LED display technology for three exhibits at the newly built WHC in San Antonio, Texas. The exhibits were conceived by G&A. a creative firm that specializes in experience design.

BBI Engineering oversaw the management and installation of the digital museum pieces, selecting SNA Displays’ BRILLIANT Inerior LED video technology for the exhibits.

“All digital screens tell a story, but here we are able to help people engage with their history and culture in a meaningful way. I can think of few more rewarding experiences in our industry than to see people light up with

inspiration and wonder when they see these exhibits,” said Richard Hill, SNA Displays’ director of sales for museums and themed entertainment.

Portals to the Missions is a three-screen exhibit whose 1.9 mm LED screens are set into engraved wooden panels styled like archways in the traditional architecture of the Spanish Missions. The architecture was designed to evoke the feeling of looking through a doorway directly into the history of the area.

The portal-themed exhibit consists of one 12’5” tall x 6’6” wide LED screen flanked by two 6’6” x 3’11” displays. Etched with artistic designs that represent the era, wooden panels mask the screens to create the archway effect and contain built-in speakers for a multi-sensory experience.

The pair of exhibits known as Evocative Objects are 1.2 mm LED screens built on the outer walls of walk-in immersion exhibits. Both displays are partially covered with artistic wooden masks to create distinct shapes, such as a diamond and a quatrefoil, a common symbol in churches of that time period.

The BRILLIANT Interior display series from SNA Displays can be configured with multiple cabinet sizes in a single display, allowing exhibit designers at G&A to envision a video canvas. Concave and convex curves, as well as right-angle installations are also commonly integrated with this range of products.

TECHNOLOGY AT WORK Videowalls

Sky-High AI

Global asset management firm AllianceBernstein (AB) recently unveiled its new 189,000-square-foot office in New York City’s Hudson Yards. Located in The Spiral skyscraper, the interior spans four floors with outdoor terraces on each level and includes an open floor plan with mixed-use meeting areas, event space, and communal work cafés. Global architecture firm Gensler was retained to design the office, creating a workplace aesthetic inspired by New York City’s vibrant energy.

This vision comes to life in AB’s Client Reception Hub, where a 30-footwide and 9-foot-high Planar DirectLight Pro Series LED video wall with a 1.2mm pixel pitch serves as a living art piece. Known as the “Dreamwall,” the installation harnesses AI to generate ever-changing visual content. A meticulously “trained” AI engine generates digitally sourced, visually captivating and brand-aligned imagery that unfurls approximately every 2 minutes, according to Gensler.

The AI system was developed through a creative process that involved curating over 12,000 images to define an algorithmic approach consistent with AB’s brand identity. The Dreamwall also incorporates custom TouchDesigner effects and LIDAR motion sensing, enabling it to respond to human movement in real time. And by pressing a “next button” users can manually prompt the

next dreamscape.

“Resolution was critical with the Dreamwall because everything being generated is resolution-dependent,” said Bruce Manning, associate principal at Cerami & Associates, the project consultant responsible for the AV design. “In addition to interactive experiential design, the Dreamwall also functions as a presentation system. It integrates in the space like a natural extension of the architecture.”

A second Planar LED array—a nearly 36-foot-wide, 7-foot-high Planar DirectLight Ultra Series LED video wall with a 0.9mm pixel pitch—was installed in a nearby multipurpose room. With the video wall able to be split into multiple configurations, the display provides a flexible, high resolution LED canvas for supporting uses such as presentations, meetings or Microsoft Teams applications, according to Joe Hakiem, senior project manager with Forte’, which performed the video wall integrations.

With the new office located on the 24th floor, Manning stressed the importance of proper mounting to safeguard the video wall systems from the natural sway of high-rise buildings over time, which can cause seams and cracks or damage components. “We brought in rp Visuals [based in Anaheim, Calif.] to design structural mounts, and in close coordination with Planar and Forte, the displays were engineered for long-term reliability,” he said.

LED Wrap

Now, with the help of Datapath, dining experiences can become an immersive experience. Case in point: MOVE 5D—an immersive event space where guests are treated to a blend of live theater and gourmet dining, coupled with stunning 360 visuals. Finnish event and entertainment company Visual45 (part of Creative Technology) relied on a trio of Datapath Fx4 controllers, coupled with a Screenberry media server to power the multimedia experience. MOVE 5D is the latest addition to Logomo, a cultural event venue in Turku, Finland. The building, which served for over a century as a machine shop for the state railway company, now houses a restaurant, galleries, and stages, as well as working spaces for businesses and artists.

MOVE 5D was designed to engage the senses. The experience lasts approximately 3.5 hours, including an intermission. Dinner features a 10-12 course menu, with each dish being handcrafted and sourced from local farms. The visuals and sounds change with each course, creating immersive environments that complement the various tastes while contributing to the broader narrative.

“Technology is hidden throughout the experience,” Petteri Unkila, production manager at Logomo, stated. “Large screens, continuous surfaces, and excellent acoustics are an integral part. We also aimed to hold high-end

conferences in MOVE 5D, and Screenberry’s rich functionality, working in harmony with Datapath’s trusted signal processing technology, helped bring that vision to life.”

Front Pictures’ Screenberry media server works at the core of the whole multimedia setup, running and calibrating 10 WUXGA Panasonic PT-RZ790B projectors to create a seamless 360-degree environment. Six projectors cover the walls, and another four illuminate the ceiling. An additional projector uses a direct HDMI input for conference presentations. The total playback resolution is 9330x1038 for the walls and 2815x1849 for the ceiling. Three 4K signals from the Screenberry media server are split using a trio of Datapath Fx4 controllers resulting in 12 WUXGA outputs.

Besides video playback, Screenberry also orchestrates QLab (for sound output) and grandMA (for lighting control), ensuring that everything works in perfect sync.

“The Screenberry team have worked closely with Datapath on some stunning visual experiences across the world,” Andy Lee, senior international sales manager at Datapath, concluded. “The combination of our popular Fx4 and the Screenberry media server allows for seamless 360 visuals that bring a new dimension to what is possible with immersive video experiences and MsuOVE 5D is no exception.”

Ring of Fire

Earlier this year PPDS expanded its long-term exclusive partnership with eight-time F1 champions Oracle Red Bull Racing, with the installation of an enormous 46.25m wide Philips dvLED wall inside the team’s newly updated MK-7 headquarters in Milton Keynes, UK.

It’s one of Europe’s most unique and immersive experiential event spaces. The vibrant 1,004m2 MK-7 venue – located within the Red Bull Racing Technology Campus – has been welcoming and entertaining visitors from around the world since 2018, providing an F1-infused event setting for businesses and individuals. With priceless Oracle Red Bull Racing memorabilia, artifacts, and championship-winning cars layered throughout the venue, MK-7 is a setting like no other.

Oracle Red Bull Racing wanted a fresh look and feel for the MK-7 event space, with the existing AV setup deemed outdated, too static, and no longer reflective of its brand values and the fast-paced world of F1 racing. Seeking a more dynamic, versatile, and immersive way to host its wide and varied range of events, Oracle Red Bull Racing, PPDS, and a trusted team envisioned a custom-designed horseshoe-shaped Philips dvLED wall.

Measuring a colossal 46.25m x 2.75m, the Philips Public dvLED wall – understood to be the largest dvLED wall installed in an indoor events space in Europe – is the centerpiece of the main auditorium, and a perfect

backdrop to the growing horseshoe of F1 cars on display. This priceless collection of F1 cars ranges from 2005 – the Team’s F1 debut – through to and including those driven by reigning and three-time World Drivers’ Champion (2021, 2022, 2023), Max Verstappen.

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

In 2023, PPDS became Oracle Red Bull Racing’s exclusive ‘Digital Display Supplier’. Forming a deeper and more integrated partnership and extending beyond race day hospitality, this included a range of solutions for use inside the team’s spectacular Red Bull Technology Campus in Milton Keynes. This will also for the first time include solutions developed by PPDS inside the newly built 5,000sq ft Red Bull Ford Powertrains facility, used to design and develop the next generation of engines in-house.

For this latest project, PPDS teamed up with Netherlands-based AV integration specialist Ruitech Solutions and Vogel’s to tie together the spectacle of Oracle Red Bull Racing technology with dvLED technology.

With no visible windows or natural light inside the main MK-7 event space, the Philips Public LED 7000 Series provided the necessary high refresh rates, color, and brightness quality, together with a 2.4mm pixel pitch, delivering a total screen resolution of 19240 x 1144.

Equally, befitting this premium event venue, Philips LED displays are detailed with built-in cabling to keep wires tidy in daisy-chained cabinets. The Philips Public LED 7000 Series’ low power consumption also adhered to both PPDS’ and the Team’s sustainability commitments.

Nick Kenton, Director of Hospitality and Events at Oracle Red Bull Racing, commented: “Since Oracle Red Bull Racing’s F1 debut in 2005, its mission has been encapsulated in one simple phrase – to win and do it differently. We don’t see barriers, we see only challenges to overcome, a mentality that helps us to achieve our targets and goals in everything we do, on and away from the racetrack.

“The MK-7 event space is home to a number of winning race cars and the space needed to adapt to allow flexibility for growth and change, as well as a fresh look and feel, with cutting-edge technologies to match. Working with PPDS, our visions for this stunning venue have been fulfilled.”

This latest collaboration between PPDS and Oracle Red Bull Racing follows the recent upgrade of the team’s MK-7 marketing team offices in the same building, which included 13 digital signage and interactive displays. PPDS also continues to exclusively supply a range of advanced Philips Professional Displays, used to elevate the VIP hospitality experience for guests in the Paddock Club during F1 race weekends.

With this expanded strategic alliance, there will be more innovation in the years to come, as racing and AV technology continues to transform at the pace of F1.

TECHNOLOGY AT WORK Videowalls

Datapath Aetria Touch

The Aetria Touch panel allows quick, easy management of content displayed on any video wall within the Aetria environment. The 10.1” touch panel is designed to sit on an operator’s desk or be affixed to a wall and connects directly to the Aetria control network via an Ethernet connection with optional POE. Secured using device encryption and Aetria User Rights Management, users can select the video wall they’d like to manage, and open and close layout files as the situation demands. Access to Layouts, Templates, and all Source types is available to all Aetria Touch users. The additional, optional Aetria Touch Pro interface allows users to open sources as individual windows and use touch gestures to place them on the wall, sizing and positioning them as needed. For whole wall collaboration, windows can be quickly maximized across the video wall when an issue occurs and restored to their original position once the situation resolves.

Peerless-AV SEAMLESS Connect Universal

At the heart of the Peerless-AV SEAMLESS Connect Universal range is the SEAMLESS Connect Universal dvLED Mounting System, engineered with an entirely new specification to address evolving customer parameters and further extend dvLED integration boundaries. With its enhanced technical functionality and flexibility, this system enables a faster and streamlined installation of flat-to-wall and corner dvLED video walls. The range also includes an adaptable lineup of substructures designed for scenarios where direct wall-mounting is not feasible. The system is compatible with most latching dvLED cabinets and can scale to any size or configuration, including large-scale and inside/outside corner-wrapping displays, without any size limitation. With a minimal 40mm depth, this mount is currently the slimmest on the market, delivering the most discreet wall profile available, making it ideal for deployments that require ADA compliance. Now, with 1.6-inch (40mm) of Z-Axis (depth) adjustment, integrators can overcome wall irregularities for a precise fit over a bigger surface area with a new gear mechanism that offers greater control of in/out adjustments. The wall plate also includes a 13mm height adjustment to enable quick spacing corrections.

Haivision Command 360

The Haivision Command 360 is an intuitive video wall software platform that powers Haivision’s end-to-end video wall solution. It works with purpose-built hardware to give enterprise teams real-time visualization of business-critical information on video walls in operation and command centers. Users can establish a common operating picture to instantly view and resolve critical situations such as cyberattacks, security breaches, and fraudulent activity alerts. Users can easily visualize content on a video wall display, set user permissions and access, dynamically change sources, and establish a common operating picture to collaborate with local colleagues or geographically distributed teams. The platform supports presets, multiple layout options, and scheduled workflows. Complying with defense-grade and enterprise zero-trust model standards, Command 360 allows users to configure settings to align with their organization’s security posture.

Sharp LD-AF Series

The new LD-AF Series of direct view LED displays from Sharp provide all-in-one functionality with integrated speakers and remote control, and an integrated Android 13 media player. Designed with an emphasis on simplicity, the displays provide a unified user experience across Sharp’s line of SoC displays. The range is available in sizes of 138” and 165” diagonal and feature Full HD 1920x1080 resolution. The display is powered by a single cable; USB-C integration allows for DP-Alt mode, as well as upstream capabilities for controlling peripherals through the separate USB-A downstream connection. Optional software includes Sharp’s NaViSet Administrator. The range is compatible with Crestron Connected software and Crestron XiO Cloud Service.

TECHNOLOGY AT WORK Videowalls

Planar DirectLight Essential Series

The Planar DirectLight Essential Series is a line of fine pixel pitch LED video walls for indoor environments with abundant ambient light. The Planar DirectLight Essential Series offers 27-inch cabinets available in 0.7-, 0.9-, 1.2-, and 1.5-mm pixel pitches and presents deeper blacks and sharper visuals with a 30,000:1 contrast ratio and high refresh rate of 3840 Hz. It is compatible with both the Planar WallDirector Video Controller and LED controllers from ColorLight. Designed with Chip-onBoard (COB) LED technology, Planar DirectLight Essential Series video wall displays offer high pixel density, energy efficiency, and durability — making it ideal for high-traffic environments such as lobbies, retail spaces, hospitality venues, conference rooms, classrooms, and regional broadcast studios.

Absen KLCOB V2 Series

Absen’s KLCOB V2 Series 0.7mm pixel pitch displays utilize Micro LED technology for consistent blacks and a contrast ratio of up to 15000:1. The KLCOB V2 Series supports high dynamic range, and features 600nits brightness, 3840Hz refresh rate, DCI-P3 cinema-level color gamut, and 2FPS latency. Absen’s integration of Micro LED and HBB common cathode technologies enables the KLCOB V2 Series to remain cool under pressure. Designed for control rooms, the KLCOB V2 Series’ Micro LED technology offers comprehensive, 360-degree protection against external impacts.

tvOne CALICO PRO

Now shipping, the CALICO PRO is the debut of tvOne’s line of newly developed video processing solutions. CALICO PRO is designed for Direct View LED walls, extensive projector edge blends or displays, or a mix of all three. It has a video processor with multi-window, multi-screen, and multi-layer capabilities based upon tvONE’s latest, fifth generation 4K/8K, 10-bit processing engine on a new, high bandwidth, flexible, 2RU hardware platform. Capable of end-to-end 4:4:4 processing, CALICO PRO supports conversions among 4:2:0, 4:2:2, and 4:4:4 color spaces. It supports up to 66 million pixels with standard or custom resolutions for precision when implementing LED, including 30bit True Color.

Some Things Seem Obvious

In the excitement and hubbub of conceiving and building a project it’s not uncommon for people to forget about repeating and ongoing expenses. The most obvious include things like licenses, support contracts, and upgrades.

Now Tell Me What to Do!

In “Just Tell Me What to Buy!” we discussed ways in which clients can underestimate the needs of a project. This article is about long-term concerns that we, or our clients, may overlook in project planning and deployment (see www.svconline.com/industry/just-tell-me-what-to-buy)

Almost every project has needs that go beyond physical design, installation and training. Let’s call those needs “soft requirements.” They might have associated costs (so-called OpEx or operating expenses) or might be more about how the system is used. Leaving soft requirements to chance can lead to trouble!

Everyone knows that much software has moved from a “buy it/own it” model to recurring licensing. Those must be accounted for in ongoing budgets, and in some cases (such as government) that may be difficult to arrange. Plus, someone must be responsible for handling renewals.

Licenses for internal equipment options, like a particular signal format, tend to be one-off purchases, but maybe not.

In the case of support contracts, I’m referring to manufacturer support, such as for critical pieces of equipment. One area where I’m usually inclined to recommend this is for video servers and storage systems. Servers can be complicated and hard to troubleshoot and replacement parts may be unique. Similarly, ongoing support can be wise for complex control systems and DSP processors. Even if you or your company are providing direct support, having the manufacturer behind you can be critical.

Upgrades sound simple enough but are actually hard to characterize because there are many variables involved. Is an upgrade truly needed for a technical, operational or security reason? Or is it just nice to have? Will there be a “domino effect” that involves other system components? Will it take the system out of operation? Will user training be needed?

Personally, I’m not a fan of making software or hardware changes just because there’s a new version. There will always be a new version (especially if it brings in revenue) and we all know how updates can lead to... unintended consequences. If a system is working well why mess with it? But eventually there will be a good reason and clients need to be prepared for potential costs and downtime.

One touchy area is with computer operating system changes. Some IT departments want updates to happen regularly, which may cause AV software to break or need its own update. In extreme cases the OS update may add a security layer, or simply drop support for a function that AV operations depend upon. These issues can be hard to solve so I usually argue for minimal changes to computers until everyone is ready for whatever happens. Don’t do it the night before a big event, right?

Then there’s the simple matter of troubleshooting, repairs and replacement parts. A well-designed system, with quality equipment, in an appropriate environment, should not need a ton of maintenance or repair, but things do happen. Someone’s

TECHNOLOGY AT WORK Videowalls

time will be needed to fix it.

Whether there should be a recurring budget item to cover any of the above will depend on the client and their organization. Some prefer to allocate money in advance, whether it’s spent or not, others can handle ad hoc costs as needed.

The Less Obvious – Media Files

Several soft requirements that frequently need attention are connected with recorded media files. Clients doing live streaming to an online platform may be content with automatic online recordings, but some need systems designed to record locally so that productions can be edited or used in other ways.

It’s easy to say “we’re going to record three cameras” without really understanding the implications. Local recording raises questions about what is being recorded (number of simultaneous sources, file formats), where it’s being recorded, how those files are moved around, and how files will be named, tracked and backed up. I have seen too many teetering stacks of hard drives, and folders filled with thousands of randomly named files, because there was no plan--or the plan came too late. If there was one advantage to the days of magnetic tape it was that physical media could be labeled and put on a shelf! Today, important recordings require RAID storage with fault tolerance, possibly local or cloud backup, and a defined file organization and/or asset management approach. Over time even file migration may be an issue as formats and storage modes change.

Clients need to reckon with the sheer size of video files (even highly compressed) which translates to storage size and bandwidth, how quickly files accumulate, and how to maintain user compliance with the file management scheme. To be honest, video file capture, storage, and management is an area that may call for input from a specialist who knows the methods and products.

But answering these questions and putting methods in place before a lot of recordings are

made is critical. Once systems go into regular use it is very hard to dislodge habits and workarounds, or to retroactively establish file management. It is not wise to let this fall to chance.

The Less Obvious –Continuity

Another oft-overlooked issue is what I’ll call continuity of operations. I don’t mean disaster recovery, just the simple problem of tracking IP addresses, online accounts, logins, software registrations, and other information. In the midst of working people tend to find what they need and get it going without thinking about the long term.

More than once, I have seen situations where someone downloaded and registered software using their personal or business email, then left the organization. When others try to access the software or the account, they don’t have the credentials. Nor will they receive email notifications about updates, renewals, etc. The same thing can happen with accounts for, say, YouTube streaming or Google Drive. Does everyone know how to access that Dropbox account?

This issue also applies to any type of registration or account that supports particular equipment, which is becoming increasingly common. The issue here is not warranties, which should be honored whether you “register” a product or not, but accounts that the product uses to validate a license, for example.

One approach is to create some generic email addresses that are not tied to any one person but tied to the organization. Unfortunately, this sometimes runs afoul of security rules if the IT department wants every email to be associated with an individual. Perhaps some negotiation is needed.

The same issue applies to generic computer logins, which IT security may frown upon (or simply not allow). A typical example from my work is a bunch of computers used for video editing. Users move around and don’t “own” any specific computer, so it’s convenient when they all have the same or similar logins (Edit 1, Edit 2, etc.).

People change positions, come and go, and sometimes passwords are changed for security

“Once systems go into regular use it is very hard to dislodge habits and workarounds.”

reasons. At minimum somebody needs to keep track of this information over time! Does that actually happen? If you’re lucky, somebody put a sticky note on the monitor, which makes security people frown a lot.

That’s assuming the computers use local logins, not network credentials. In the latter case it’s nearly impossible to use something generic since the network authentication is likely connected to an individual. On the good side there might be less risk of one person leaving the organization and taking critical knowledge with them.

Needless to say, these same issues apply to passwords for control panels, locks for storage cabinets, and secure rooms. Ever been locked out of the AV closet because someone changed the passcode? Or something is amiss in a server room, but nobody knows how to get in?

The Less Obvious –Equipment and Stuff

I work with many clients that have accumulated countless cables, adapters and converters of all types, plus many pieces of equipment that have fallen out of use or were never used at all. Sometimes the newer (and usually younger) people on hand may not even know what these things are or what they do.

I encourage clients to organize this stuff in ways that minimize damage and make the items useful. I’m happy to teach people how to properly coil cables (over/over or over/ under), determine what type they are, and secure them with twist ties or Velcro straps-not tape! Organizing cables is great work for interns, as long as someone teaches them about different cable and connector types. Same for power cords, power supplies, power strips, extension cords, etc. Extra power supplies can be quite handy when something fails (see www. svconline.com/industry/practical-power).

A lot of equipment comes with extra bits and pieces that might be needed later, so as a project winds down, I usually try to organize spare and extra parts into a few labeled boxes so I (or someone) can find them. It would be nice if a client could do this, but they are usually not aware of all the components and don’t want to take the time.

Apart from quickly finding what you want, this kind of organization may reduce the tendency to buy more stuff every time a need arises. Online purchasing is so easy that people may not even look first, especially if the cache is in disarray.

Technical Management

So how does all of that get done? This is a big concern that I return to regularly. I suggest that there should be a role called Technical Manager. This person does not need to be an engineer, just someone who is well organized and has a head for tech. In my ideal world the designated Tech Manager would handle some or all of the following:

• Organize and store equipment manuals, cables, adapters and spare parts

• Keep track of current and old equipment

• Note software revisions, updates and backups

• Keep track of logins, passwords, online accounts

• Develop and enforce media management strategies

• Orient/train operators on facility systems

• Advise operators of updates and changes, retrain if necessary

• Investigate and troubleshoot problems

• Facilitate support from vendors, manufacturers, etc.

CLASSIFIEDS

• Primary point of contact for outside tech support

• Primary or starting point of contact for upgrades, rebuilds, etc.

The idea is to have a central person who is aware of what’s going on, can keep others informed, and interact with outside entities. This need not be a full-time role in itself, just part of someone’s job. Sounds sensible, right? If you’re working with clients that are highly technical, or part of a technical organization, they might already have some kind of tech management in place.

In many other cases you’ll hear about why it’s not necessary or can’t be done: Things aren’t that complicated; we don’t have anyone capable; we don’t have enough people; everyone’s a volunteer; everyone’s a freelancer; there’s no place to store the data/parts/manuals. What that says is that the client doesn’t entirely understand what they’re getting into. Granted, some simple systems can run without much oversight, but being too casual about

technical management is a recipe for trouble down the road. Especially with non-technical volunteers, or freelancers, having someone around who knows the system is critical. I often find that “upper management” (whoever that is) thinks that hiring a “pro” eliminates the need for orientation or training. This is nonsense since every system is unique.

For my part, when I build a system, I include in the documentation a record of IP addresses and logins, plus other information, that was true when I set it up. If something changes and the doc isn’t updated there’s nothing I can do, but it provides a starting point and a place to make updates. The same goes for signal flow drawings, cable run lists, etc.

I also warn, cajole, threaten, and otherwise try to make technical management a priority. As much as I would like to hand off a finished project to an individual or staff that is fully engaged and ready to take over, that’s pretty rare. But as designers and integrators we can at least try to prepare them for what’s ahead.

Green Hippo Hippotizer MX

The Hippotizer MX Series Media Servers were at work at WWE WrestleMania spectacular, pushing 4K live action and pre-made content across an ecosystem of LED screens and strips. The Netflix live-streamed, two-night event took place at the 65,000-capacity Allegiant Stadium in Paradise, Nevada. Upstaging once again supplied all the Hippotizer Media Servers, system design, and integration support between the design, content

creation, programming, and interface with LED vendor NEP Screenworks teams. Eight Hippotizer Kasai MX Media Servers (distributed by ACT Entertainment) were the centerpiece workhorses, integrated with 12 Hippotizer Boreal+ MK2 and two Hippotizer Karst+ MK2 Media Servers. The 2U, 10-bit video playback, robust Kasai MX Media Servers allow users to run two 4K outputs and offers Genlock for large surface displays that need more than one output.