Systems Contractor News - January 2024

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BETTER DECISIONS, FASTERTM

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CONTENTS

22

SCN Hall of Fame We celebrate the achievements of eight Pro AV professionals.

People

Technology

18 Executive Q&A

34 Bluetooth Vs. Wi-Fi

Michael Cuomo from Telemetics corrects robot

Research which choice is best for Pro AV integration.

camera misconceptions.

By Brandon White

By Mark J. Pescatore

19 Executive Q&A

36 ‘Tough Tech’ on Display The Engine uses a video wall to share information

SE Systems owner Cliff Miller celebrates 50 years of

about its transformative solutions.

sound.

By Jennifer Guhl

By Mark J. Pescatore

Business 30 Here Comes AVaaS What are the benefits of a service-forward approach?

38 Follow You, Follow Me Yamaha UC’s CS-800 video soundbar is ready for your next videoconference.

By Chuck Gloman

By Phil Langley

Viewpoint

32 A Tour of Toronto’s Illuminarium

42 Bringing Women Back to Pro AV

SCN goes behind the scenes to learn how to create an

WAVIT celebrates its first year and looks ahead toward

immersive environment out of an historic distillery.

future growth.

By James Careless

By Gina Sansivero

36 Departments 6 SYSTEMS CHECK 8 NEWS 20 NEWSMAKERS 40 NEW PRODUCTS

Vol. 31 No. 1 January 2024 Systems Contractor News (ISSN 1078-4993) is published monthly by Future US, Inc., 130 West 42nd Street, 7th Floor, New York, NY 10036-8002. Periodical postage paid at New York, NY and additional mailing offices. POSTMASTER: send address changes to: SYSTEMS CONTRACTOR NEWS, P.O. Box 1051, Lowell, MA 01853.

Subscribe online at www.MySCNews.com. Please allow 6-8 weeks for address changes to take effect. ©Copyright 2023 by Future US, Inc. PRINTED IN U.S.A.

4

SCN // January 2024 // avnetwork.com

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SYSTEMS CHECK avnetwork.com

MARK J. PESCATORE Content Director

Back to the Classroom Y

es, you can go home again—but you might need a map. Such is the price we pay for progress, I suppose.

Last fall, I was asked to be part of the Florida Atlantic University School of

EMAIL

mark.pescatore@futurenet.com

Communication and Multimedia Studies Careers in Comm and Media Week. Suzanne Ffolkes, assistant dean for strategic affairs and public engagement at FAU’s College of Nursing, invited me to guest lecture for her “Rhetorical Theories of Persuasion”

FACEBOOK

facebook.com/ systemscontractor

communications course.

It didn’t take a terribly persuasive effort to get me to agree. I used to be a college instructor and was intrigued by the possibility of returning to the classroom for a limited engagement.

When was the last time you visited your alma mater? More than a dozen years ago, I

LINKEDIN linkedin.com/company/ systems-contractor-news

was on campus to attend a football game while the legendary Howard Schnellenberger was coach. When I was a student, one of my editorial cartoons for the school paper lamented our lack of a football team, so the experience was a bit surreal.

Since then, the main campus has continued to grow even more, so much so that I had to find my bearings once I parked my car. Turns out I was relatively close to where I

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thought I was, but the familiar landmarks weren’t quite so familiar anymore. When did they build this sidewalk? What building is that? And when did they add name-brand restaurants to the dining hall?

Last fall, I had the chance to be a guest lecturer at my alma mater, FAU. Yes, that is a corduroy blazer with elbow patches, which I keep in my collection for just such an occasion.

While the campus may have thrown me for a loop, I felt right at home in the classroom. Of course, I immediately started checking out the technology. For the record, they had a Crestron control panel, Sony projector, and Da-Lite projector screen.

But there was no time to start punching buttons—the dean loaded up my presentation on the university’s network and it was showtime.

I’ve taught more than a dozen college courses, but I haven’t had to prepare a lecture in a long time. On the one hand, this was just a one-off. There would be little if no notetaking from the students, and none of this was going to be on the test. On the other hand, what college student wants to hear someone drone on for 75 minutes on how he used to walk uphill in the snow both ways to attend class, especially when FAU’s main campus is in South Florida?

In the end, I did my homework and produced a real lecture. It was fun sharing a little bit of wisdom with the students. At one point, I broke out my old iPod as an example of marketing (Steve Jobs’ “1,000 songs in your pocket” is one of the greatest slogans of the 21st century). I pulled some social media posts from my PR days out of the archives. I even tossed in a little theory—Maslow’s hierarchy of needs—for good measure.

There was, of course, a generational gap. For example, none of them had heard of Douglas Adams, whose book, The Hitchhiker’s Guide to the Galaxy, had a profound effect on the absurdist side of my sense of humor. However, we had all heard of Taylor Swift, so there was common ground to be found. Plus, a few students wanted some extra advice after class, so I’ll take that as a

SUZANNE FFOLKES

6

SCN // January 2024 // avnetwork.com

win. Go Owls!

JANUARY 2024 VOL. 31 NO. 1 CONTENT

VP/Content Creation Anthony Savona Content Director Mark J. Pescatore, Ph.D. mark.pescatore@futurenet.com Senior Content Manager Wayne Cavadi Contributors James Careless, Chuck Gloman, Jennifer Guhl, Peter Hansen, Phil Langley, Gina Sansivero, Brandon White Group Art Director Nicole Cobban Art Editor Rob Crossland Production Managers Nicole Schilling, Heather Tatrow A DV E R T I S I N G S A L E S

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NEWS

With New Minority Stakeholder CDPQ, Solotech Targets International Growth

C

DPQ has acquired a minority stake in Solotech. The goal of the transaction, which represents the largest investment in the company since 2013, is to support Solotech’s acquisition and organic growth strategy to

expand its presence in various markets and create more value for its customers.

Founded in Montreal in 1977, Solotech has 2,000 employees in 20 strategic locations in North America, Europe, and Asia. Since 2013, the company has been held by a group of Quebec-based shareholders—Claridge, Investissement Quebec,

Draper’s new building will add storage, production space, and more at its campus.

and Desjardins Capital—that CDPQ now joins. Solotech’s team has been involved in corporate events, festivals and musical tours, and large-scale AV installations.

Draper Opens New Building on Campus

O

“With this investment—the largest in the last decade for Solotech—CDPQ will support the company in its next growth stage. Aligned with CDPQ’s priorities, this means not only shifting activities into high gear, but also facilitating the company’s global expansion and promoting its audiovisual and technological knowhow,” said Kim Thomassin, executive VP and head of Quebec at CDPQ. “We’re thrilled by the new possibilities for our teams that CDPQ’s arrival will

n Nov. 14, Draper officially unveiled the 10th building at its manufac-

provide to further promote their expertise and talent,” noted Martin Tremblay,

turing campus in Spiceland, IN, with a ribbon-cutting ceremony fea-

president and CEO of Solotech. “Serving clients around the world is the genesis of

turing company leadership. The 100,000-square-foot building brings

our expansion, and even today it’s what motivates us to offer quality service and

the amount of total space to 500,000 square feet.

the best technology for their ambitious projects.”

The building will add seven loading docks, as well as storage and production space, and will enable the company to add a third powder coating line. The new building was added after several years of steady growth, and with the expectation of even more growth with the company’s entry as a major player in the residential shading market.

“We see a lot of good growth opportunities, and this building is going to allow us to continue to take care of and meet the needs of our customers,” said Chris Broome, president. “Also, from a supply standpoint, we’ll be able to keep a better inventory of fabrics and other components, which will allow us to be more responsive to our customers’ needs.”

Founded in 1902 as a manufacturer of window shades for schools, Draper now makes motorized shading systems for the commercial and residential markets; AV projection screens and lifts; custom AV mounts and structures; and custom solar control solutions. Broome expects the opening of Building 10 will create 25-30 new jobs in the short term.

Alcons Is Safe Bet for Vic’s Las Vegas

O

pened earlier this year, Vic’s

Chris Lowdon, whose father is a jazz

Las Vegas is a live jazz club

musician and former owner of multiple

and fine Italian-American

Vegas venues, wanted Vic’s to pay homage

dining experience in the city’s downtown

to his family’s legacy in the city. Porchlight

Symphony Park. The latest venue from

Hospitality contracted architect Adrian

Porchlight Hospitality, it features an Alcons

Jones of JONA Architecture & Design Group

Audio pro-ribbon audio system, including

to design the main dining room, with

three VR12/90 mid-size versatile monitors

acoustics by Sam Berkow of SIA Acoustics.

and a pair of floor-mounted BF121 compact

Lowden also worked closely with David

subwoofers, to deliver performances by local

Rahn, Alcons North America sales manager,

and nationally acclaimed jazz artists. CEO

on the sound reinforcement system.

8

SCN // January 2024 // avnetwork.com

NEWS

AIMS Launches Education Library

The Alliance for IP Media Solutions (AIMS) has launched the AIMS Education Library, a comprehensive online resource designed to facilitate Brian Taraci

Extron has been meeting the needs of integrators for 40 years.

F

problem-solving computer-video interface

and Pro AV industries.

The free resource offers an extensive database of all sessions presented or recorded by

Extron Celebrates 40 Years of Solutions orty years after starting with a single

learning about IP technology for the broadcast

AIMS members and partners at the organization’s events, dating back to 2018, and is continuously updated to include the latest sessions from recent events. An intuitive search interface allows content to be easily filtered by education category, technical depth, and source, ensuring

prise, I’m very excited for the road ahead.”

The company attributes its longevity and success to

quick and precise access to relevant information.

“Open standards IP media systems offer

loyal customers, talented and dedicated employees,

significant benefits, but to take advantage of

products—and its technologies are enhancing the

and an unflinching adherence to the principles set

them, users require the knowledge to design,

experiences of millions of people around the globe

forth by Extron’s founder, Andrew Edwards. Over the

deploy, and operate these systems. We created

every day.

years, AV professionals and end users have entrusted

our Education Library to meet this need,” said

Extron to help them solve their technology challenges.

Steve Reynolds, chairman of AIMS.

in 1983, Extron now makes more than 5,000

“Extron grew up alongside the AV industry,” said

The creation and development of the library

Brian Taraci, Extron CEO/CTO. “For four decades,

Extron’s leadership team sees opportunities to

we’ve seen the evolution of technologies that com-

continue to be innovative, develop the right products

was one of the key projects undertaken by the

pletely reshaped how people communicate, and we’re

for Extron customers, and provide the service and

AIMS Education Working Group, which was

proud of the leading role we play in developing

support AV professionals need to be successful. As

launched in early 2022. Access the AIMS

innovations that drive the industry forward. As we

new technologies arise, Extron is positioned to

Education Library at aimsalliance.org/

continue to produce core technologies for the enter-

provide solutions that meet the needs of an ever-

document-library.

It’s a New Look for Dante Audinate has announced a refreshed brand identity for both the company and its signature connectivity solution, Dante. Updates include a new logo, tagline, color palette, and narratives that capture the essence of Audinate and its Dante platform.

NSCA Updates State Licensing Guide

captured in the new Dante tagline, “One Connection. Endless Possibilities.” The

N

new Dante logo also captures this concept, taking one connection into multiple

that govern the installation of limited energy and/or

possible directions.

integrated technology systems. It also presents a

Given the strong connection and recognition with customers, Audinate will emphasize the Dante brand more in the market. The Dante AV-over-IP platform enables communication, experiences, inspiration, and collaboration to be shared between people and spaces using one connection. This spirit is

As the parent company of Dante, Audinate has been focused on pioneering the future of AV. According to the company, its new brand platform preserves its engineering legacy while creating a more human and approachable brand.

“Long the de facto standard in networked

SCA has released a completely updated “Guide to State Licensing.” The report provides the commercial integration

industry with a reference guide of the state laws

comprehensive overview of the licensing requirements and state code for each U.S. state.

The information in this report reflects all changes in state and administrative statutes through October 2023. “Members have been asking for an updated version of this report for

audio with more than 550 manufacturers

years. NSCA dedicated this year to conducting large amounts of research and

producing over 3,800 products, adding video,

making sure the guide is as up to date as possible,” said Tom LeBlanc, executive

control, and management has transformed

director, NSCA. “Integrators can use this guide to answer all the questions they

Dante into a complete AV-over-IP platform,”

have about working in other states so they can quickly ensure compliance.”

said Joshua Rush, chief marketing officer at

For each state, the guide covers, license types and associated fees, alarm

Audinate. “This new positioning crystalizes

system requirements, limited-energy requirements, relevant state contact

what Dante offers the Pro AV industry.”

information, and more. NSCA members can download the report at no cost, while non-members can pay to access the report.

10

SCN // January 2024 // avnetwork.com

NEWS

ISE is celebrating its 20th anniversary later this month in Barcelona.

A Remarkable Journey: Blackman Reflects on 20 Years of ISE

M

ike Blackman’s journey with Integrated

One critical aspect of ISE’s success is its choice of

Systems Europe (ISE), from its inception

venue and date. Blackman revealed that the initial

to its 20th anniversary this year in

venue, Geneva, was chosen for its neutral location

Barcelona (the show runs Jan. 30-Feb. 2), is a

before he was recruited. It was Lemke and Moujabber

testament to the power of vision, dedication, and

who had toured various European cities to identify

adaptability. Under his leadership, the show has played a pivotal role in shaping the Pro AV and

suitable locations.

Blackman officially joined Integrated Systems

However, exhibitors had to deal with Swiss import

systems integration landscape. Blackman, managing

Events in 2003, and the journey to launch the show

and export requirements; the clear message after the

director of ISE and 2023 SCN Hall of Famer, looked

began. In the early days, he had just two team

show was to find a new location. After a European road

back at the story behind the formation of ISE and his

members, Godwin Demicoli and a trainee. Together,

trip that Blackman undertook with Jason McGraw of

own journey over the decades.

they laid the groundwork for the inaugural event in

InfoComm, Amsterdam became the new home for ISE,

January 2004. The team started small but with a big

centrally located and accessible.

“The real first mover was Randy Lemke of InfoComm (later AVIXA)—he had the idea,” Blackman recalled. While there had been previous

vision, and they gradually expanded as the show grew.

The inaugural ISE in Geneva wasn’t without its

After using a logistics agency for a few years, the

challenges, but it provided valuable insights. Blackman

InfoComm shows in Germany, in collaboration with

organization recruited Martine Niermans and

recalled the anxiety around whether attendees would

the Photokina show and exhibitors such as Kodak,

Daniëlle Inostroza as the in-house operations team

turn up and the pressure to prepare for the unexpected.

Lemke recognized that the AV industry was changing

began to take shape. ISE was initially based in shared

Despite the initial struggles, they had strong exhibitor

and a new exhibition was needed to cater to these

offices, but as it grew, they established their own

participation, with 120 exhibitors and many other

changes. Lemke reached out to Billilynne Keller from

presence. “The organization grew and

companies showing interest in the event.

CEDIA and Chuck Wilson from NSCA, and together

grew, and we became stronger by

they hatched the plan to create ISE.

having our own people rather than

opened up registration,” Blackman said.

outsourcing too much,” Blackman

“Everything looked really good, and we had

explained.

hundreds of people registering from far-flung

Blackman’s recruitment began with an approach by one of his old bosses (Cherif Moujabber), who was a headhunter. A diverse background—starting with

“The first thing that happened was when we

In the marketing department,

places like Africa and we thought, ‘Wow, this

aspirations of becoming an accountant, then working

the team continued to expand with

show’s going to be really international!’ As it was, about 3,500 people registered for the first

at the Financial Times, and eventually venturing into

the addition of Dan Goldstein and

event and marketing consulting—paired with his

Stefanie Span (formerly Hanel), who

expertise and passion for technology made him a

brought their expertise to enhance

perfect fit for the role.

ISE’s presence in the industry.

“I had the feeling that it was something that was

show. No one came from Africa; we learned very quickly that shows like ours could be used to try to get visas into Europe,

Blackman’s role as the public face

and it changed the whole way

going to grow; a marketplace was going to develop,”

of ISE was a deliberate decision

in which we handled that

Blackman said. “I saw more and more things that

due to the competitive nature

for registration in the

were becoming more intrinsic in our lifestyles and

of the three owner

future. You know, I’ve

thought, ‘This is going to be more and more

associations—InfoComm,

important as time goes on.’”

CEDIA, and NSCA.

12

SCN // January 2024 // avnetwork.com

seen everything as Mike Blackman

evolution.”

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NEWS

Sotaro Nishida

New Sheriff's Office Studio Features Brightline Lighting

New CEO Has L Big Plans for Yamaha UC

By Mark J. Pescatore

S

ighting in confined spaces presents a unique

“Lighting is often thought of last in set design,”

challenge, but as demonstrated by the new

said Tampa-based lighting director Earl Thomas.

video production studio at the Collier County

“Once the set is there, you have to work with what you

Sheriff’s Office in Naples, FL, flexibility is essential.

got. With this project, the set was pushed back close to

Thanks to the color-changing capability and com-

the walls. Thankfully, the Minnows are so small, you

pact size of Brightline fixtures, lighting is broadcast-

can rotate them. And with the color-changing

quality for each interview and stand-up shot.

capability, they provide gorgeous accent lighting. The

Tampa, FL-based Encore Broadcast Solutions

compact size of the Minnows with the power of an LED

served as the systems integration firm on the project,

gives off a whole lot of light in a small space. We could

which was completed in November and included set

light every area we needed to without any limitations.”

design, control room with a Broadcast Pix GX Hybrid

The studio is roughly 25x28 feet. The room itself

integrated production system, three Panasonic

has 11-foot-high ceilings, and a lighting grid was

otaro Nishida wants to build a better audio

AW-UE160 4K PTZ cameras, and Brightline lighting.

installed 10 feet off the floor. Thomas said the ability

experience for as many people as possible.

Brightline L1.2 studio lights, color-changing Lupo

to daisy chain the power and DMX controls of the

Not exactly a modest goal for the man who

fresnels, and Minnow profile spotlights were selected

Brightline fixtures made it even easier to place the

started as CEO of Yamaha Unified Communications

for the new studio, all calibrated for daylight color

lights where he wanted. “That really helped us in such

on Oct. 1.

temperature.

a tight space,” he added.

Now based in Southern California, Nishida has

More government organizations are building their

been part of Yamaha since 2002, most recently in

own studios for internal productions and broadcasts,

Yamaha’s European headquarters in Hamburg, Germany, where he served as manager, strategy and

The new video production studio for the Collier County Sheriff’s Office features Brightline lighting instruments.

according to Doug Tayler of Encore Broadcast Solutions, and they typically want something they can

marketing, Pro Audio Division. He’s also had previous

operate with their own staff. “They want to be able to

stops in Japan and South America (good thing he

do everything themselves, from adjusting the lighting

speaks three languages). As he works on improving

to operating the switcher. Thanks to technology like

efficiencies within the company, Nishida said Yamaha

Brightline offers we can easily incorporate the ‘set it

UC will remain very focused on the corporate and

and forget it’ ethos into our design,” he added. “One

education verticals.

set uses a Planar 165-inch diagonal video wall.

“High-quality audio supports Yamaha’s insistence

Lighting that set was a challenge, but Brightline and

on quality and authenticity in products and services,

Earl handled it like a champ.”

and comes from five technology building blocks: microphones, speakers/amplifiers, DSP processing, routing, and acoustic technology expertise to create the ultimate sound quality,” Nishida explained.

“Because audio is such a complex accumulation of technologies, I think what is important for Yamaha is that we continue to come up with integrated systems with all those components to serve these verticals.”

While he can’t reveal all the details yet, Nishida

ACT Entertainment Acquires tvONE

I

n an effort to expand its reach in the Pro AV tech-

established in live events will be a tremendous boon

nology sector, ACT Entertainment has acquired

for our product lines. The width and depth of ACT in

tvONE, a Cincinnati-based video processing,

providing comprehensive solutions and system

signal distribution, and media playback solutions

integration will further enable all our customers in

company with U.K.-based R&D and manufacturing.

their work.”

said the Yamaha UC teams are developing new

Among its brands is the Green Hippo line of media

Since 2017, ACT Entertainment has completed

products. “The innovation that defines the Yamaha

servers and digital display products, which tvONE

multiple acquisitions, including RapcoHorizon and

culture is propelling us toward some thrilling develop-

acquired in 2018. tvONE’s existing management and

AC Power Distribution. The acquisition of tvONE,

ments in the coming months,” he said. “I am genu-

structure will remain in place after the acquisition.

which has been in the Pro AV industry for more than

“tvONE is known for its exciting, cutting-edge

35 years, marks the first foray into video equipment

inely eager about the impact these upcoming releases will have on our industry and the integrator

product lines, and we know our customers will be

for ACT Entertainment, a manufacturer and distribu-

community.”

pleased to have access to them to provide more

tor of products for the entertainment industry. The

Today, ceiling microphones are arguably the

efficient end-to-end solutions for their projects,”

acquisition follows the company’s recent move into

best-selling products for Yamaha UC, but Nishida

said Ben Saltzman, CEO of ACT Entertainment. “It

the audio sector with distribution of PK Sound’s

would rather focus on providing the company’s full

has been great getting to know David [Reynaga] and

robotic line array systems.

ADECIA systems, which provide all the necessary

Andy [Fliss], and I look forward to working alongside

Below: Ben Saltzman (left) and Andy Fliss

audio components (including ceiling mics, where

the fantastic teams they’ve built.”

appropriate) for collaborative environments. He said

“We are delighted with our partnership with ACT,

the system approach not only provides integrators

a well-respected and powerful company at the core of

with a one-stop solution but also makes installation

live production, our largest market,” said Andy Fliss,

and operation more efficient. “We want to give

president of tvONE. “The reach that ACT has

everyone the whole audio experience,” he said.

14

SCN // January 2024 // avnetwork.com

NEWS

The sports bar and grill at Red Hawk Resort + Casino has a new entertainment system anchored by an RGB Spectrum Galileo video wall processor.

the bar now offers an array of sports events and highlights that keep patrons engaged and entertained. The processor delivers top-tier video processing performance, ensuring a captivating, real-time viewing experience with stunning 4K image quality.

Cal Coast Telecom, an integrator based in San Jose, CA, selected Galileo to power the sport bar’s new video wall due to its versatility, support for diverse digital and IP-based signal sources, display layout flexibility, 4K image quality, and straightforward installation process. The processor seamlessly integrates with the casino’s existing setup and offers many benefits that enhance the viewing experience.

Operators can efficiently switch and route input sources, choose from customizable, preset display

RGB Spectrum Enhances Red Hawk Casino Sports Bar

R

ed Hawk Resort + Casino, a premier destina-

a captivating new entertainment system anchored by

tion for entertainment, dining, and gaming

RGB Spectrum’s Galileo video wall processor.

located just north of Sacramento, CA, has

layouts, and resize and reposition display windows using the processor’s intuitive, built-in GUI. “One of the key benefits of RGB Spectrum’s Galileo processor is its remarkable ability to display 44 images simultaneously with the flexibility to resize and reposition the images,” added David Hallmark, audio video engineering manager for Cal Coast Telecom.

The Galileo processor supports all types of video walls, offering features such as image overlap for

The Galileo processor powers a 27.8x8.9-foot

projector-based video walls, custom timings to

recently elevated the fan experience at the sports bar

video wall, composed of Planar TVF1.8 LED displays

accommodate LED wall resolutions, and bezel

and grill within its Apex entertainment complex with

that boast 4,480x1,440 resolution. With this solution,

compensation for optimal viewing on LCD video walls.

avnetwork.com // January 2024 // SCN

15

NEWS

BeckTV, Ross Video Collaborate on M&T Bank Stadium Graphics Upgrade

S

maximum pixel accuracy, which is key when dealing with end zone displays close to 13,000 pixels wide. To handle video image processing for some of the larger displays, there are nine Ultrix Carbonite switchers.

Full redundancy is built into the system to ensure reliability. The new CMS drives content to 52 unique displays strategically placed throughout the stadium, including end zone, entry gate, vomitory, corner boards, upper and lower ribbons, and club and

ystems integrator BeckTV and Ross Video

Ross designed and built a new system using a full

joined forces to complete a significant

complement of Ross gear to meet the stadium’s

project at M&T Bank Stadium, home of

requirements for a unified and user-friendly

sports analysis tool, which is used for live production

the NFL’s Baltimore Ravens. The two companies

solution with redundancy. BeckTV and Ross com-

purposes as well as post production and weekly

collaborated on upgrading the Ravens’ content

pleted the project in two phases: the first before the

shows. PIERO offers a wide range of capabilities,

management system (CMS) workflow, which

2022 season and the second before the start of the

such as first-down graphics, on-field graphics,

sends graphics to the venue’s LED scoreboards and

2023 season.

virtual branding, and virtual sponsorship on the

additional displays.

Installed in 2017, the original system consisted of a Ross CMS with a third-party workflow. BeckTV and

The new stadium system also includes the PIERO

“This upgrade continues our commitment to

field. With PIERO, the Ravens get more robust stats

provide a world-class entertainment experience for

and data management and can feed that information

Ravens fans,” said Jay O’Brien, VP of broadcasting

to displays.

and gameday productions, Baltimore Ravens. “The

Finally, operators have complete control of

Ross CMS allows our production team to use every bit

productions through Ross’ unified sports venue

of their resources to deliver content without

control solution. The DashBoard control software

technical limitations.”

seamlessly integrates production control room

XPression Tessera from Ross is the main

technology with the CMS. Within the DashBoard

solution for managing real-time motion graphics on

interface, gameday operators can trigger video

LED displays. As a multifaceted tool for managing

production, graphics, remote cameras, projection

and filling video displays in studios or venues,

systems, sound, lighting, and more.

XPression Tessera uses region mapping to distribute

A new Ross Video CMS sends graphic content to displays across the home stadium for the Baltimore Ravens.

concourse displays.

“The upgraded M&T Bank Stadium showcases

graphics across multiple channels or engines for

another successful collaboration between BeckTV

pixel-accurate rendering—and allows for real-time

and Ross Video,” said Matt Weiss, VP of business

animation and content changes.

development, BeckTV. “The enhanced LED CMS

Working in concert with XPression Tessera is

workflow, along with the Piero system for on-field

Carbonite Mosaic, a dynamic compositing tool that

graphics, ensures that Ravens fans can enjoy an

scales live productions to massive displays with

unforgettable gameday experience.”

MARIO PORTO

AVI-SPL Incorporates in Japan

I

n December, AVI-SPL announced it completed

support in the region as well as an expanded suite of

incorporation of AVI-SPL Japan Private Limited.

technology solutions to companies based in Japan.

Already well-positioned in the

While currently offering live cus-

APAC region with six offices across

tomer support and managed services

India, Singapore, and Hong Kong,

near Kyoto, Japan, AVI-SPL aims to

establishing operations in Japan

deepen its resources in the region.

reinforces AVI-SPL’s dedication

AVI-SPL Japan is a natural

to exceptional service delivery for

extension of the AVI-SPL global

clients within the local market.

brand, fully aligned with its global

“Our mission in Japan is to build

service standards and way of doing

stronger connections with local

business. With successful collabora-

businesses and provide them with

tions already in place with global

unparalleled service,” said Brian

technology and financial services

Fallon, managing director of

customers, AVI-SPL sees significant

AVI-SPL’s APAC team. “We’re dedicated to contributing to the growth and success of our customers in Japan.”

Recognizing Japan as one of the top markets in

Brian Fallon

potential in expanding its business locally by servicing booming indus-

TRITECH’s (from left) Ed Dougherty, Mark Vitt, and Bill Ehlinger

TRITECH Upgrades Manhattan Office

T

RITECH Communications has expanded its office in Midtown Manhattan to house some of the company’s grow-

ing engineering and project management

tries in Japan, including healthcare, life sciences,

staff. The meeting spaces feature the latest

renewable energy, and fintech.

AV, security, and IT technologies for clients to

APAC, AVI-SPL has been actively serving customers

test and review. The space enhances Tritech’s

in the country for several years. The decision to

One Source platform by bringing together team

formally incorporate reflects the company’s commit-

members from each of Tritech’s disciplines,

ment to providing enhanced managed services

fostering collaboration and innovation.

16

SCN // January 2024 // avnetwork.com

NEWS

Pro AV Growth OK Amidst ‘Soft Landing’

By Peter Hansen

just 13% of respondents in November 2023.

On inflation, the latest U.S. number is 3.2%. The

T

sources aligning to the same general story.

For the second month in a row, the AV

latest Eurozone number is an even better 2.4%. These

Employment Index (AVI-E) came in stronger than the

he Pro AV Sales Index (AVI-S) measured 56.9

economies, significantly affected by the post-pandemic

AVI-S, as the November AVI-E measured 58.6. This is

in November, down 1.9 points from the 58.8

inflation wave, are now within sight of the 2% target

a signal of continued strength in the AV labor market,

recorded in October. Surprisingly, this is

rate, both achieved without recessions.

likely still some small amount of catchup in hiring

essentially flat from November 2022, when, despite

Why did inflation come down? Why was a big

from the massive revenue growth in 2022. In addi-

the record growth recorded that year, the AVI-S

decline in demand—a recession—not necessary? The

tion, it likely reflects live events winding back up, as

came in at 57.0.

Pro AV story provides the answer by example: 2022

the return to in-person was delayed in that segment

was a rapid transition time, as the economy shifted

and continues to drive significant growth.

Such levels are comfortably above the no-net change of 50, but below the low-60s levels Pro AV has

from COVID-era patterns to post-COVID-era

become accustomed to over the last decade. As such, we

patterns. Suppliers could not keep up. But now the

in the U.S. were similar. The economy added

give it the descriptive label of “OK.” It can’t be seen as

gap is closing—and as a result, prices are starting to

199,000 jobs and the unemployment report ticked

good when the standards have been set higher, but it’s

look normal again. With that in mind, let’s all take a

down one-tenth of a percent to 3.7%.

a level many industries would love to have right now.

moment to reflect on what good news this is.

Two related phenomena are currently at play:

Interestingly, the index data aligns well with our

Labor market conditions in the wider economy

The Pro AV Business Index report is derived from a monthly survey of the AVIXA Insights Community,

resolving supply issues in Pro AV and the “soft

end user-focused Market Opportunities Analysis

a research community of industry members that

landing” (inflation falling to its target level with no

Report (MOAR) data. Comparing MOAR to the AVI-S

tracks business trends in commercial AV. For more

recession). First, the data: In Pro AV, our monthly top

over the last three quarters, we see that the MOAR and

information about joining the AVIXA Insights

issue tracker has seen supply difficulties fall from the

AVI-S both had their highest level in Q3, followed by

Community, visit www.avixa.org/AVIP.

top issue for 51.3% of respondents in October 2022 to

Q2, then Q4 lowest. Always nice to see different

Peter Hansen is an economist at AVIXA.

avnetwork.com // January 2024 // SCN

17

PEOPLE EXECUTIVE Q&A

Right on Track Telemetrics VP Cuomo Corrects Robotic Camera Misconceptions

Michael A. Cuomo CuomoVice President Position: Company: Position: Vice Telemetrics

By Mark J. Pescatore

robotics camera control company, we’re nimbler than

President

larger ones and focus all our R&D on robotics, where

Company:

others might be developing robotics as a side hobby.

Telemetrics elevating columns to make sure cables don’t move

SCN: How is Telemetrics celebrating its 50th

This allows us to innovate quickly and add new features

when they go up and down.

anniversary?

and customized solutions as customers request them.

Michael Cuomo: 2023 was a year of celebrations for

This is done for both hardware and software upgrades

rover that is also invaluable in the studio because

Telemetrics, at trade shows and elsewhere. We have

across our product lines.

there’s no cables at all to deal with. The best cable

also moved into a new building [in Allendale, NJ] that

We also offer a wireless option for the OmniGlide

management is no cables.

features expanded space for all our operations,

SCN: How has the Telemetrics control panel evolved?

including manufacturing, engineering, customer

MC: From our first control panel in 1985, the TM-864,

SCN: How has the response been to the new TG-5

service, and support. The new building’s modern

to our most recent models, the RCCP-2A and

trolley, and what makes it different from other track

amenities will also include a large, state-of-the-art

RCCP-M2, Telemetrics has put a lot of R&D into

systems?

demonstration room for live training sessions and

making the control panel, which is at the heart of every

MC: The response to the new TG-5 robotic camera

client demos.

robotic camera control system. It’s easy to operate and

trolley has been extremely positive because we’ve

full of the features and capabilities customers use

leveraged a number of the safety features of our

industry started with my grandfather, company

Telemetrics’ history in the broadcast TV production

most. This includes RCP-level camera controls with

OmniGlide Roving platform studio pedestal to create

co-founder Anthony C. Cuomo, and his pioneering

dedicated touchscreen knobs to illuminated TeleKeys

what we believe is the safest and most elegant camera

work on the development of CRT tube technology and

that change both color and text depending on what the

trolley Telemetrics has ever built. There are safety

early TV displays (at Dumont Laboratories), and then

operator is doing on the control panel.

scanners at the edge of each corner of the trolley, so if

later Triax cable-connected camera control systems for

Another prominent feature is our reFrame

a person walks across the track, built-in safety

ABC Sports as well as various news organizations. My

Automatic Shot Correction technology, which

sensors will force the trolley to automatically stop.

father, Anthony E. Cuomo, serves as our current

is found in Telemetrics STS (Studio) and LGS

These AI sensors also help the trolley avoid collisions

president, after decades growing the company into

(Legislative) software for the RCCP-2A robotic camera

with set pieces.

developing robotic camera control systems for a

control panel.

variety of markets.

My family, and the entire Telemetrics team, are

As the first manufacturer in the industry to

The TG-5 also features built-in LEDs that light up to indicate if there is a person or object in its path

introduce automated facial tracking in robotic camera

under normal operating conditions. Lastly, the trolley

very proud of our Golden Anniversary milestone. Only

control systems back in 2016, the RCCP-2A with

is ideal for AR/VR applications, as it features a more

a few companies in this industry can say that. It’s been

reFrame continues to improve. It now combines tools

aesthetically pleasing housing that can easily be

a lot of work and dedication to our customers’ needs.

for fully automated tracking, enabling users to track

recessed into a production studio or corporate presen-

live presenters as they move and turn their heads on

tation venue floor.

SCN: What are your short and long-term goals for

camera. For example, if someone is not facing directly

your company?

at the camera, the system will still track them and keep

SCN: What’s one thing people often get wrong when

MC: Telemetrics has always been an engineering-first

them perfectly centered in the frame at all times.

they are considering robotic cameras and/or track

company, and we will continue to innovate and grow

The reFrame tracking combines three layers of

systems?

the business as we have for half a century. Our

tracking parameters for a high degree of accuracy.

MC: I think there are several big misconceptions. One

long-term goal is to provide cutting-edge technology

Facial tracking allows users to identify a unique person

is that these systems are being deployed to reduce

that’s always been aligned with our customers’ needs,

in a group; object tracking is great because if you don’t

staff. The second is that robotic cameras can’t be used

and giving them the automated workflows and specific

have full facial coverage, you can still track a person;

for live, on-air performance.

tools they require to get the job done with the least

and AI helps determine control panel operator rules for

Many times, robotics are used in applications

amount of disruption to their existing operations.

the robotic cameras (e.g., over-the-shoulder left/right

where it’s just not feasible to have staff. Either the

and two-shot framing).

cameras are positioned in locations where it’s not safe

While we continue to grow the business, we have not outgrown our customers. As an independent

for a human operator or camera positions are mounted SCN: As someone who has taped down his fair share

on a wall or the ceiling—you just can’t have people

of cables, how has Telemetrics solved the problem of

standing there. I think productions today are designed

cable management on the studio floor and above it?

around robotic cameras, and they have become an

MC: Cable management has always been a core feature

integral part of the new generation of immersive sets.

of our product line, and Telemetrics puts a lot of time

Telemetrics RCCP-2A Control Panel

18

SCN // January 2024 // avnetwork.com

So, the benefit is that it’s not about reducing staff,

into making sure our cable management systems are

it’s about enabling productions that would not have

safe for crews to work with. This includes unique

been possible without robotics (due to cost and space

scissoring methods for both floor and ceiling-mounted

limitations). With our control systems being more

TeleGlide robotic camera track systems to keep the

intuitive than ever, and our tracking feature and

cables clean and organized, our pan/tilt heads with

reFrame server allowing a single user to track multiple

connectors on the tilt sections as well as pan sections,

cameras simultaneously, we’re enabling robotics to be

and cable management techniques on our Televator

used in live studios.

EXECUTIVE Q&A PEOPLE

50 Years of Sound SE Systems Owner Miller Talks Changing Audio Technologies and Retaining Talent

By Mark J. Pescatore

that it required extra labor and multiple trips to the job site, but the upside was keeping the customer happy.

SCN: Since pandemic restrictions eased, how busy

Cliff Miller

has your Production Division been?

Position:

CM: To put it in audio terms it was a fade-up start

Founder/Owner

(groan). Promoters and venues alike needed to gauge

Company:

public sentiment for gathering in groups again. Then,

SE Systems

all at once, it was wide open. Unfortunately, the entertainment industry struggled to find enough freelance engineers to fill positions for shows and events. Many in the industry turned to “essential

spaces, ballparks, etc. And, fortunately, with

services” jobs and didn’t return to the audio business.

networked audio components, it’s much easier to

Larger touring companies hired many of the available

expand as the need arises if you install a good

freelancers, but we were fortunate to SCN: How has the integration

find engineers uninterested in the

business changed the most since

long periods of travel required.

you established SE Systems?

infrastructure.

SCN: How much interest are you seeing in immersive audio projects for houses of worship?

Cliff Miller: It’s a lot like the

SCN: It sure seems like SE Systems

CM: The immersive experience has been gaining a lot

comparison of rotary/button home

production employees stay with the

of attention from not only the house-of-worship

phones to cell phones. And then

company for a long time. What’s

market but many other markets as well. Although the

from cell phones to watch phones. I

your secret to retaining talent?

immersive experience has evolved to include audio,

expect the Dick Tracy video watch phone any day now.

CM: It’s really no secret. You treat employees like

video, lighting, and interactive elements, the

In the 70s, we built most of the loudspeaker cabinets,

family, don’t ask them to do anything you wouldn’t do,

fundamentals have remained. We have several

loaded them with JBL components for church

and instill the truth in them that they are the face of SE

clients looking to make changes to their AV systems

installations. Many hours were spent under baptistries

Systems to our clients. Our product sales manager, JR

to start pushing in this direction, while making

wiring floor plates and soldering to terminals in an

Luther, has been with the company for 39 years; Buck

budgetary plans to complete the process in stages

8x10 box. A 12-channel analog console was a must,

Parker, VP, 34 years; Hardy Walker, operations manager,

over 3-5 years. An ongoing challenge is staff

with larger churches springing for 16 channels.

29 years; and Gail Parker, business manager, 23 years.

education on creating content within the platforms

In the mid-80s, there were plenty of loudspeaker

Bill Evans, Charlotte store manager, and John Lewis,

to produce the desired environment. Not all clients

manufacturers offering high-quality enclosures, so we

corporate events manager, have both been with us for

have the need or budget to push in this direction.

basically closed our wood shop. It was sometime in the

over 20 years. Time flies when you enjoy your work.

During early conversations, it is important to clearly

90s that we started working with system design

understand leadership’s vision to then be able to

consultants on larger projects. The need was a good

SCN: You do lots of audio installs—what is

project manager, electrical crew, and a couple of audio

something customers

wiring technicians.

generally underestimate

Networked systems became the norm, and audio

or simply don’t

engineers were required to become IT fluent. But for

understand about audio

customers, the interface became user friendly, with

systems?

multiple functions happening at the touch of a button.

CM: Many of our

We still consider ourselves quite small in relation to

installations are in the

the many national companies out there, preferring to

design-built category

focus on fewer projects at a time.

where the client says, “We need a sound system.” The

SCN: What are some of the major challenges facing

next step is to question the

the Pro AV industry today?

individual or committee as

CM: Skilled labor and the “fight” with other industries

to what they need the

requiring similar talent. Corporations and universities

system to do and how do

have deep pockets—and in today’s economy, it’s

they plan to use it.

difficult to recruit young people. I also find that many

Sometimes you’re dealing

young people lack hands-on skills (through no fault of

with folks who lack a clue

their own), where their generation didn’t work on their

as to what is really needed,

own cars or tear things apart to see how it works. Send

but after long question-

me a kid that grew up on a farm. I know, I’m old.

and-answer sessions, you

The second major challenge was the serious

hopefully get a feel for a

backlog of equipment for almost every manufacturer

basic system. With

due to the pandemic. Fortunately, we had a pretty large

experience, we direct the

inventory of new and used equipment and could make

questions to the related

temporary substitutions to get a system going while

usage: church, fellowship

waiting for the spec’d product(s). The downside was

hall, corporate meeting

avnetwork.com // January 2024 // SCN

19

execute that vision through technology.

PEOPLE NEWSMAKERS ATLASIED has hired TOM

LECTROSONICS has promoted

ATLONA has named

KACHNIK as transportation sales

KELLY FAIR to national sales

Miami-based KOR MEDIA

manager for the Western United

manager. In his new role, Fair

PRO as its new

States. Kachnik will focus on

heads up the U.S. sales team and

increasing the adoption of

its representatives, serving the

AtlasIED’s transportation Tom Kachnik

solutions in the region, including

Kelly Fair

Rep Report

manufacturer’s representative for the

company’s diverse customer base

state of Florida. Specializing in the AV market,

in a variety of marketplaces. Fair

Kor Media Pro has deep expertise in

the GLOBALCOM enterprise communications platform.

had served as western regional sales manager at

AV-over-IP, lighting, projection, and pro

The 20-year pro audio veteran was most recently

Lectrosonics since joining the company eight years ago.

sound, as well as a solid understanding of the

general manager for integration and live production at

Prior to joining the company, he served as president of

key trends driving the market. At its Miami

Solotech, with other career stops at PSX, Ford Audio-

Esfera Group. He previously held sales positions with

headquarters, Kor Media Pro has a showroom

Visual, and Plus 4 Marketing.

Riedel Communications and Sennheiser.

of gear, as well as space for hosting training sessions and a conference room configured

KENN LEGAULT, BOSE

MEYER SOUND has hired three

to show off the capabilities of Atlona control

PROFESSIONAL’S newly

high-level management

systems.

appointed vice president of

positions. MELISSA GALICIA has

engineering, brings more than

been selected as CFO, and is

FIS BLUE is now fully certified to manufacture

three decades of engineering and

charged with the leadership role

and sell NEUTRIK FIBERFOX products. As one of

leadership experience across

in all financial and accounting

the company’s U.S. Certified opticalCON Cable

activities, including budgeting,

Assemblers (COCA), FIS Blue builds products

company. His experience includes leadership roles at

financial reporting, risk manage-

that are ITAR Compliant, NIST Compliant, Cage

Avid, where he worked on audio recording and editing

ment, and regulatory controls.

Code: 4RF03, and ISO 9001:2015 Certified. As a

products such as Pro Tools; Amazon, where he led the

JAMES BOLTON, the new

small, woman-owned business, FIS Blue

team responsible for Alexa Hybrid Engine for speech

director of logistics, will take lead

specializes in harsh environment fiber optic

recognition; and Dolby, contributing to Dolby Atmos

responsibility for the global and

cable, cable assemblies, components, test

strategic use of logistics and

equipment and supplies. The company also

distribution models to manage

operates its own repair facility in support of the

DANCKER has named MEG

incoming freight, shipments to

FIBERFOX HMA product line.

NELBACH to serve as senior vice

customers, and movement of

president, people and culture.

parts. MICHAEL HEARD has

THE FARM will serve as FSR’S representative

Nelbach brings extensive experi-

been chosen as the director of

across Alaska, Oregon, Washington, and select

ence in building and enhancing HR

procurement, and will now

regions of Montana. The partnership between

infrastructure, fostering excep-

oversee all matters regarding

FSR and The Farm represents a significant step

supply chains for manufacturing

forward in expanding FSR’s reach in the Pacific

Kenn LeGault

significant global brands to the

Melissa Galicia

and Dolby Vision products.

James Bolton

Meg Nelbach

tional employee experiences, and

cultivating dynamic, inclusive cultures. Nelbach

Michael Heard

parts and materials.

Northwest.

previously served as vice president of people at Braze.

She began her career as an agency recruiter, then moved

PRYSM SYSTEMS has appointed

VIDEO MOUNT PRODUCTS has appointed

to leadership roles in corporate talent acquisition and

TOM BIGLIANI as regional sales

Huntley, IL-based DEVINE180 as its new

human resources, as well as a business partner at

director for the North American

manufacturing rep serving the northern Illinois

several organizations in government contracting.

market. In this role, Bigliani will

and Wisconsin areas. Devine180 is a full-service

broaden business relationships,

sales and marketing firm located in the suburbs

support business development

of Chicago with a concentrated focus on the

with new and existing customers,

complex electronic security and life safety

INTINOR has appointed TOMMY

Tommy Edlund

EDLUND as CEO. He takes on the

Tom Bigliani

role from Lina Zackrisson, who left

and expand the company’s sales operations. With

industry. Founded in 2017, Devine180 engages

to run her family’s business.

nearly 20 years of industry experience, Bigliani has

with local security integrator contractors,

Edlund is an engineer who spent

worked with many Pro AV organizations, including

distributors, consultants, and end users to

almost a quarter of a century with

AVI-SPL, Video Corporation of America, Kinly, and

define long-term strategic goals and provide

Konftel. Most recently, he was

British Telecommunications (BT).

turnkey solutions and integrated solutions.

deputy CEO as well as director of sales for its operations.

VUWALL recently appointed K-ARRAY has appointed MICHAEL

LEO BULL as its new U.S.-based

WAVIT has added digital signage

GREEN as its technical support

executive vice president of sales

veteran CARRIE GARCIA to its

administrator. Green comes to

for North America. Bringing 29

board of directors. Garcia began

K-array with a solid background in

years of experience to the role,

her career on the IT side of the

audio technology and technical

Bull will support VuWall’s

industry, working for major

support. His experience includes

Leo Bull

troubleshooting complex audio

in the region. Bull has served in sales leadership

Carrie Garcia

systems, providing technical guidance, and ensuring

positions at Mitsubishi Electronics, Fujitsu, Zenith,

crossed over to Pro AV and became a passionate

customer satisfaction. In his role, Green will assist

LG Electronics, and Avocent. Most recently, he was

digital signage advocate. Currently, Garcia serves as

customers and partners with their audio system

the senior vice president of sales for the Americas and

the U.S. business development manager for YCD

inquiries and concerns.

global accounts at Haivision.

Multimedia.

Michael Green

20

SCN // January 2024 // avnetwork.com

strong presence and growth

corporations like AT&T and Comcast. From there, she

BUSINESS

In 2024, SCN adds eight individuals to our Hall of Fame ranks, as we recognize their achievements in Pro AV. From business leaders and technological pioneers to instructors and advocates, their paths have been very different. Yet, each one, in their own way, has positively impacted and inspired our industry.

We welcome all our inductees and congratulate them as we celebrate their success.

Joseph D. Cornwall

By Mark J. Pescatore

A

From selling customers their first VCRs to encouraging C2G’s expansion into HDMI and USB-C cables, education has always been Cornwall’s top

AV industry. Cornwall said the AV industry is “woe-

sales technique. He realized his skillset was best

fully unprepared” to leverage crossboarding efforts,

deployed by communicating highly technical

but he’s working to help change that.

concepts in ways that people could understand. Over

fter almost four decades of exploring AV

Cornwall’s AV career took root in high school when

technology and sharing that knowledge

an English teacher took him on a tour of a college radio

of training programs, and was named InfoComm

with other members of the Pro AV industry,

station. It blossomed after a six-year career in the U.S.

Educator of the Year in 2014.

Joseph D. Cornwall, 64, retired in April 2023.

It didn’t take.

Not completely, anyway. He’s still teaching and he’s an active member of AVIXA’s

Army, when he began selling VCRs and other consumer electronics at a department store in Cincinnati in 1986. That experience led to his own home theater design business. From there, he

the past dozen years, he’s taught and created dozens

But the appeal of AV is about more than technology for technology’s sake—it’s about facilitating communication. “We all want to make a difference,” Cornwall offered. “Everything that I do makes a

Content and Learning Committee.

became a Sony representative, which

difference because it lets other people communicate

“I’ve stopped working for money,”

led to new opportunities in the

more efficiently. When a project is complete, I can

he said. “Now I’m working for what

broadcast and satellite industries.

see people benefitting from my work because of that

matters.”

At this stage of his career, what

Eventually, Cornwall found himself working as a business

ability to connect.”

Cornwall acknowledged AI is the next big thing

matters most to Cornwall is helping

development manager for C2G, and

for Pro AV—but it’s a tool, one that’s come from

individuals discover the Pro AV

thought the company was focusing

outside of the industry. He said AV manufacturers

industry and build careers in it. He’s

on the wrong product set and

and professionals need to learn how to use AI more

focused mainly on onboarding and

market application. In an effort to

efficiently and effectively. Plus, he said the industry

crossboarding efforts, which he thinks are the biggest hurdles the industry is currently facing.

The onboarding process is relatively

protect his own job, he admitted, Cornwall wrote a white paper in 2012, which was his way of identifying, for the company and their client base, five emerging technologies that

has to do a better job embracing consumer features, particularly uncomplicated user interfaces, and incorporating them into commercial products and processes.

straightforward: Find young people and get them

would come to have the greatest impact on the AV

interested in AV industry careers. But crossboarding is

connectivity business. Management read it, followed

speakers,” he explained. “AV is about an experience.

the process of finding professionals who already have

his advice, and subsequently enjoyed significant

We have to look at space, time, environment, content,

a particular skillset, such as electricians, and recruit-

growth and market penetration. He was later named

and delivery, as well as the user experience—and that

ing them to use those skills to solve problems in the

AV technology evangelist for the company.

includes the control experience.”

22

SCN // January 2024 // avnetwork.com

“AV is not about video boxes, it’s not about

BUSINESS

Andrew Cross

By Wayne Cavadi

A

goes back to that vision at NewTek and how almost everything came to fruition. “The products that we created in those early days of NewTek are what set in

his evening in front of the computer writing

motion the revolution to enable anybody to produce

programs that made 3D images and effects; his

a show,” he said. “And those things probably went

first-ever tool helped simulate camera depth of

on to change the world in ways that few people

ndrew Cross has been in the Pro AV

field. “This was in the super-early days of the

completely realize.”

industry for pretty much his entire life.

internet, so I just put it online and sent it to people.

Arguably the most interesting aspect of NDI is

Now at Amazon Web Services (AWS),

‘Hey, if you like this tool, just send me $10 in the

not how it changed the industry, but how it came to

his resume includes 20 years with

mail,’” Cross said.

be. Cross was renegotiating incredibly high health

NewTek as both CTO and CEO, serving

His first innovation—and quite a

care rates for the company—and on a run one night,

as president of global research and

few $10 bills later—he went to

he had a thought—and from that thought, NDI was

development for Vizrt Group, and

work at NewTek, where he spent

born. “Everything’s like balloons,” Cross said.

a stint as CEO of Grass Valley.

the next 20 years revolutionizing

“They kind of squish, and a few times in your life

However, his journey into the

video production. “We saw that

they end up reaching this point where something

world of Pro AV started well before

the next revolution was going to

from the outside puts them under that pressure that

all that. “When I was 12 years old,

be real-time video processing,”

they burst. It is inevitable. And I realized it was

I tried to do 3D graphics on a ZX

Cross explained. “As the econom-

totally inevitable that video would move to IP.”

Spectrum, which was one of the

ics of that market allowed com-

first personal computers,” Cross

puters to get faster and faster, at

industry: He has had a hand in changing how we as

some point computers would become fast

humans consume information and visualize the

recollected. “How computers can be used to make images has been one of the things that has always driven me.”

Cross earned a degree in computational physics at the University of Manchester Institute of Science

enough that they could be used for real-time

Cross’s impact hasn’t simply transformed an

world around us. “Before video, what we knew about

video processing. We were driven by this belief that

the world was limited to what pictures in books

a general-purpose computer could do everything

showed, and that was slow,” Cross concluded. “Now

that a TV station needed.”

we know what’s going on in the world in real time.

and Technology (UMIST) and his Ph.D. in computer

One of Cross’s largest contributions to the

The whole way humans understand the world has

vision at the University of York. Even then—much

industry was the creation of NDI, but—perhaps a bit

been as a result of this ability to produce and share

to the chagrin of his then girlfriend (and now

surprisingly—that game-changing technology is

video.”

wife)—he’d come home from his studies and spend

not the thing he feels was the most consequential. It

Mario C. Educate

By Jennifer Guhl

F

rom his start as a union projectionist in

when visuals didn’t have the clarity and brightness they do now. “Every day, I’m amazed,” he said. “I don’t get to use it as much as I would like to only

bit of audio here, a little bit of audio there, and then

because I’m not on day-to-day shows and hands-on

all of a sudden I was getting calls for, hey, can you

with the equipment, but every time we buy some-

rent us this, can you rent us that, or can you do these

thing new, I just look at it and go, wow. I never

shows for us,” recalled Educate.

dreamed we could do that.”

Chicago, managing hundreds of projectors

Leveraging his experience working for high-

Engaging the next generation of industry profes-

for special events and corporate produc-

profile clients like McDonald’s and Anheuser-Busch,

sionals is a genuine focus for OSA, which Educate calls

tions, to founding one of the premier entertain-

along with his relationships with various technical

its next evolution. He recommended that future

producers and production managers, OSA

industry leaders learn as much as they can and not

ment technology and event production companies in the industry, Mario C.

was officially born. Over the years, the

focus on only one element of the industry.

Educate has always allowed his

company advanced from a true

passion for the industry drive

audio company to an audio,

from soup to nuts,” he offered. “You must know

next-level excellence for his cli-

production, and technical man-

about the other departments and how to interface

ents. That mentality has become

agement innovator, and Educate

with them. Audio needs to know how to interface

contagious—and the company he

has dedicated every waking

with video. Video needs to know how to interface

founded, OSA, has become known

moment to its continued growth.

with lighting. It’s all becoming one big service and

for the dedication of its team members.

“It’s all about our people,” said Educate. “It was never about what equipment we had. It was the attitude of our

“My hobby is this company,” he added. “I just want to see it grow. I want to see people grow. I want to see us become larger than we are, but not take on more than we can chew. I don’t

“They need to understand how a show works,

will keep advancing and improving.”

The business has also become a family affair for Educate, allowing him to work alongside his sons, Carmen and Paul, who will eventually lead the company through future technology innovations

engineers; it was how dedicated they were to their

feel I’ll ever retire and will always be part of the

and adaptations. “OSA is a company that will be

job and how good they were at it.”

company in some way.”

handed down to my children and grandchildren, and

Before founding OSA in 1985, Educate discovered

With technology advancements progressing

they’re very passionate about the company,”

a love for audio and began collecting as much audio

rapidly, Educate is blown away by how visuals and

Educate said. “It’s just so wonderful to see younger

equipment as possible. “You know, you buy a little

LED have advanced since his early days in projection

people getting into it, embracing it, and loving it.”

24

SCN // January 2024 // avnetwork.com

BUSINESS

Nancy Knowlton

By Wayne Cavadi

I

perfecting her craft.

“Every day I shot 200 free throws,” Knowlton recol-

What you do with that SMART Board technology is change the face of education around the world. Dignitaries like the U.K.’s Tony Blair and Mexico President

lected. “And if the ball went through the net and it

Vicente Fox turned to the SMART Board and saw, as

didn’t come back to me, that didn’t count. It had to go

Knowlton said, “the elevated level of engagement, the

through the hoop, two bounces, and back in my hands

happiness that the teachers had, the joy of the students,

f you have been in a classroom, whether as

to count as a made shot. That’s the ethic that got me

and just the very active participation.” The accolades

an educator or student, there’s a good chance

where I was in basketball and then onward in life.”

Knowlton and her husband have received are plenti-

you’ve seen Nancy Knowlton’s contributions

She earned her MBA from Saint Mary’s

ful—for example, the two shared the Manning Innova-

to the Pro AV world. She has been helping to transform education since she and her

University—and having her own business was always one of Knowlton’s goals. When

husband, David Martin, founded

she met her husband, whom she

SMART Technologies in 1987.

credits for bringing the technical

When Knowlton isn’t running Nureva—the company she and Martin started in 2014 where she is

tion Award in 2002, and Martin was recognized by Prince William himself for his services to education and named an Officer to the Order of the British Empire.

You’ll be hard pressed to hear Knowlton take much

side to the mix, it wasn’t long before

credit for her accomplishments. She credits her honors

SMART Technologies was created.

and accolades to the company’s achievements. “I’m

It was the SMART Board

just a worker,” she said. “I was certainly one of the

currently both president and

interactive whiteboard that really

CEO—you may find her in the

put Knowlton on the map. “[Martin]

kitchen as a self-proclaimed foodie.

imagined the SMART Board about

While she stays focused cooking up

four years before we ever brought a

change. When Knowlton walks away from Pro AV,

product into the market,” Knowlton said.

how would she like to be remembered? “For trans-

new (and healthy) recipes, perhaps it is the basketball courts where you can trace the

players, but not the only player.”

Knowlton’s legacy is unquestioned in the world of Pro AV. A game changer. A leader. And an advocate of

“We had the opportunity to license some

formation in education,” she said. “And it really

beginnings of a work ethic that got her to where she

technology for what was one of the world’s first LCD

came about as a consequence of listening to and

is today. Knowlton played basketball for Bishop

panels that sat on top of an overhead projector. And I

deeply understanding what was taking place in the

University and was one of Canada’s top scorers. While

asked him the fateful question, ‘Well, what would you

classroom—and then how we could create products

others were out and about on the weekends, she was

do with that?’”

to take it to a new level.”

BUSINESS

Pete Putman

By Jennifer Guhl

L

working at Amex for what you’re getting paid,”

Putman read an article in AV Video magazine and was

said Putman. “You should just quit and start your

astounded by the number of factual and technical

own company.”

errors he found. He called the editor and asked how

He started his first business in 1980, eventually

such a sloppy article got published in the first place.

running five companies throughout his career until his

The editor responded by challenging Putman to

retirement in 2022. There’s a running joke in Pro AV

write something better for the magazine—which he

ittle did Pete Putman know when he answered

that being self-employed often means “unemployed.”

did in just a few hours. He soon joined the editorial

an ad for a production manager position with a

Still, Putman quickly secured multiple corporate

teams of other popular industry and consumer

clients, creating business graphics and multi-

publications of the time, and his work has also

small AV company in New Jersey that it

would lead to a career spanning over 45 years in everything from graphics design

image shows that utilized his audio recording and mixing skills. Eventually, he

appeared recently in SCN. At the same time, Putman also discovered he was

and multi-image production to

transitioned away from graphics

pretty good at teaching, having been invited to speak at

event staging, tech journalism, and

production to event staging for

industry trade shows like InfoComm. Before long, he

industry education.

major corporations, which he

was creating and leading industry certification classes

focused on for 17 years until his next

for AVIXA, eventually becoming a member of their

career pivot.

senior and emeritus faculty.

In just 12 months, he expanded his responsibilities, running a recording studio, processing film

Exhausted from the travel, long

and prints, shooting animation on a

He went on to teach and present for more than 20

hours, and constant state of crisis,

years, receiving the InfoComm Educator of the Year

Forox camera stand, and program-

Putman decided in the mid-90s that

award in 2008. Putman also was invited to speak at

ming multi-image slideshows. This

he was done with the staging business.

led to a new opportunity with American Express in New York City, working within their

“There was always something going awry,” he recalled. “And there was no respite. Every

numerous dealer events and trade shows, and became a regular presenter at the HPA Technology Retreat.

The culmination of his career was being recognized

creative services department while simultaneously

staging project was a ‘seconds, minutes, hours’ drama

as a Fellow of the Society of Motion Picture and

supervising and upgrading the AV installation in the

with each client. My motto then was, ‘Expect the worst

Television Engineers (SMPTE) in October 2023. “I got

corporate boardroom.

to happen, and you’ll rarely be disappointed.’ But as it

into industry education by chance,” he said. “I didn’t

turned out, I was much more interested in the video and

plan my four-decade career in the AV industry to turn

display technology and how it all worked.”

out this way at all. It was more of a happy accident than

Over time, Putman began to receive encouragement from independent producers to go out on his own. “They all told me you know too much to be

David Ross

By Mark J. Pescatore

His secondary career as a writer began when

from $2.5 million in 1991 to about $400 million today.

university—and he’s spent plenty of time educating

Under David’s leadership, Ross Video has enjoyed a

himself to the point where he considers himself more

pattern of consecutive growth lasting 32 consecutive

of a businessman these days.

years. David became president of the company 20 years ago and added the title of CEO in 2006.

A

anything else.”

Ross Video is known for a variety of product lines,

Ross Video maintains a strategy of “integrated diversity,” which means it only expands its product offerings through companies and technologies that

lthough he officially joined the company

from its production switchers to its XPression graphics,

“touch on the edges of what we already do,” he

in 1991, David Ross has been a part of Ross

Ultrix routers, Spidercam robotic cameras, D3 LED

explained. As a result, the company benefits from

Video since he was about 9 years old.

He has a vivid memory of watching his father, John, working with a graphic designer on the company logo at the time.

displays, and … socks? Like so many other companies, Ross Video has offered a variety of promotional items over the years,

had plans to work for a big tech company or possibly for NASA as an

ers with new products and services. The company’s strategic acquisitions have also added resources across

pany’s keynote at the 2019 NAB

countries and continents.

MICHELLE VALBERG

career with the family business. He

teams, while targeting the same verticals and custom-

including socks. During the com-

It may seem like it was destiny, but David almost didn’t build his

utilizing the same sales, R&D, and manufacturing

Show, David jokingly launched

“I think what we’re doing works really well,” David

Socks 2.0—and the online chat

said. “I love exploring new technologies and finding

exploded. So, the company decided

ways to make customers more successful.”

to, well, run with it. The result has

While traditionally known as a broadcast company

engineer. But after he shared his

been a regular dose of levity at their

more than a Pro AV company, that perception of Ross

potential future plans, his mother

annual event, as well as a sock

Video may be changing. In late October, David congrat-

pulled him aside and told him his father had always assumed David would come to work with him at Ross Video.

As David recalled, Ross Video was a one-product

drawer for the CEO that’s half-filled with company-branded stockings.

Technically speaking, David is an engineer.

He earned a degree in computer engineering from the

ulated the sports and live events team, because its sales surpassed broadcast sales for the first time. “Broadcast equipment has been getting cheaper, and I think Pro AV needs are getting more sophisticated,” he said.

company (video switchers) at the time—and after a

University of Waterloo and helped redesign the

particularly difficult recession, his father was one

company’s switcher software while he was a co-op

about the company his father started in the 1970s with

signature away from selling the company. Instead, they

student. You can see his most recent handiwork in the

an analog switcher. “You wake up every morning with a

decided to work together to save it.

look and feel of TouchDrive 4, the company’s latest

list of things to do that’s different from the week

family of control surfaces for live production. However,

before,” he said. “There’s nothing like the multiple

business was basically his unofficial minor at the

dimensions of running a company like Ross.”

And did they ever. The Canada-based company has not just survived but thrived, improving its revenue

26

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More than 30 years in, David, 58, is still excited

BUSINESS

Sam Taylor

Just keep swimming. After getting his master’s in

add and so did our resellers. And now distribution is

computer science, Taylor wasn’t ready to go into

really the primary go-to market strategy for most

programming and design, so he went into sales

vendors today.”

By Wayne Cavadi

instead, where he landed in Pro AV.

J

Electrograph ladder from regional sales manager to

last with Exteris Almo, Taylor achieved a lifelong goal,

ust keep swimming. That phrase can describe

president. The company flourished under Taylor,

reaching the $1 billion mark in revenue. One would

the 37-year career of Pro AV veteran Sam

rising from roughly a $4 million company to more than

think that was his crowning achievement. “I’m

From 1987-2009, Taylor worked his way up the

Taylor. Now set to enjoy the next phase—

retirement—Taylor spends his time in

$500 million. But when the recession hit, Electrograph struggled. “2009 was the

the pool, kayaking, and growing his

toughest year of my life,” Taylor said. “I

bourbon collection at his home in

had to lay off 250 people and close a

Kentucky.

business down that I loved.”

He was a key figure in that fundamental change that reshaped Pro AV sales. This past fiscal year, his

prouder of how many of those original 22 are still at Exertis Almo today,” Taylor said. “That says a lot about Almo and the culture.”

Just keep swimming, this time, quite literally. If you think retirement means Taylor can sit back and

Taylor’s journey in Pro AV

Just keep swimming. Within a

started in his youth, the self-

few weeks of closing Electrograph,

Kentucky State University, he volunteered his time to

proclaimed AV geek of his family.

Taylor found a home at Almo. “That

teach second graders how to swim. Unfortunately, the

“If they had an AV problem, they

was the one that seemed most like

pool went into disrepair and became dormant.

would call me,” Taylor explained. “I

Electrograph,” Taylor explained.

was the first person in my family to

“[Almo] took a leap of faith because

use the auxiliary input on my receiver and put my TV sound through the receiver instead of the TV.” However, a career in AV wasn’t necessarily in the cards. What he considered a hobby in his youth became a reality much later. Taylor went to Johns Hopkins

relax, think again. While training at the HBCU

“I thought about those second graders that didn’t get swim lessons two years ago,” Taylor said. “Now

they hired me and 22 people [he

there’s another class of second graders that didn’t get

brought with him], and we literally had no

swim lessons.” That led Taylor to spearhead Swim with

revenue, no customers, no vendors, and no inventory. And by the end of the first year, we had actually made money for the year.”

Taylor was revolutionizing the Pro AV industry

Purpose, a charitable fund with a goal to raise $1 million to repair the aquatic center.

After 37 years, Taylor can reflect and appreciate that he truly was a pioneer. But he will never take full

University, graduated with a degree in material

and making distribution something of value. “All the

science, and went to work in the steel mills. That was

resellers wanted to be direct, and that was the model

in the 1980s, a time, Taylor said, that saw more people

when I first started at Electrograph In 1987,” Taylor

great people. I always tell people my strongest

get laid off than promoted in the struggling steel

said. “But we built a value-added distribution

business skill was the ability to hire high-quality

industry.

business, and along the way vendors saw the value

people. And then they stayed with me.”

Lorne Trottier

By Jennifer Guhl

M

bachelor’s and master’s degrees in engineering from McGill

University in hand, Lorne Trottier was

“I didn’t do it myself,” Taylor said. “I had so many

broadcast and AV, and there’s a lot of

company is investing in a new product line of AV

commonality,” said Trottier. “We’ve

infrastructure products based on IPMX, which it will

been making broadcast products for

introduce over the coming year and preview at ISE

many years, and AV is a natural extension of that.”

Trottier founded Matrox in 1976—and his most

ore than 50 years ago, with his

credit for that.

Expo 2024 in Barcelona.

“Many proprietary standards are on the market

significant sense of pride is that they are still

right now,” Trottier explained. “I’m very hopeful

delivering innovative solutions after all this time,

that this IPMX standard will be widely adopted. The

especially considering the technological advancements that have occurred in the industry.

products we’re developing around that have a lot of innovation in them, and I’m hoping we’ll be very successful with that.”

looking to discover his career calling.

“There’s been some very dramatic

With many developing proprietary codecs and

He got his start in the television

paradigm shifts,” he added. “I’m a

streaming protocols, Matrox is also honing in on

broadcast equipment industry

tech geek at heart, so I enjoy the

standardized codecs that are more universally

working with John Ross, who

challenges presented by our

available within its IPMX products. Many graphics

would later launch Ross Video

technological advances and

processing units on the market today contain a

(and whose son, David, is a Hall of

learning to develop products and

powerful built-in codec engine, but these capabili-

Fame honoree this year as well).

innovations based on those things.

ties are not widely used. “That’s one of the things we

I’m proud that we’ve mastered

hope to bring to the market and help shake things up

many of these technological

a bit,” Trottier added.

His initial experience was critical when Trottier founded Matrox, known for its pioneering hardware and software solutions for various high-tech industries. It led to the

transitions over time, and we’re still

For those looking to grow within the industry and

open for business and having fun.”

contribute to future innovations, Trottier recom-

With the industry experiencing a major

mended being like him: a self-proclaimed tech geek

development of innovative product lines, first

continuous shift to AV-over-IP, Matrox has focused

at heart. “It’s good to love technology because you

supporting the broadcast industry and eventually

on the development of IPMX, a proposed set of open

have to keep learning new things all the time,” he

crossing into the world of Pro AV.

standards and specifications that address the need

said. “You have to be prepared to be learning all the

for a common set of ubiquitous standards and

time and figuring out how to innovate with the new

protocols in the transition to IP infrastructures. The

technology that comes along.”

“You look today and there are quite a few companies that make products that overlap between

28

SCN // January 2024 // avnetwork.com

BUSINESS AV-AS-A-SERVICE AV-as-a-Service is gaining traction as a UCC strategy as return to office continues to evolve.

Service-Forward: In Context for UCC For the end user, the service-forward approach in the context of UCC context provides specific advantages.

• OpEx Finance Flexibility: AVaaS allows organizations to budget and pay for the business services they need on an ongoing basis, reducing the burden of large upfront capital expenditures.

• Reduced Hardware Concerns: The serviceforward approach shifts the focus away from hardware procurement and management, freeing organizations to concentrate on the outcomes they want to achieve.

• Flexible Program Terms: AVaaS UCC providers typically offer flexible subscription terms, GETTY IMAGES

enabling organizations to adapt quickly to changing business requirements.

• Global Scalability: AVaaS UCC solutions can easily scale across multiple global geogra-

Here Comes AVaaS

Exploring the Benefits of a Service-Forward Approach

phies, providing a consistent user experience.

The service-forward approach also offers benefits for integrators:

• New Business Opportunities: AVaaS opens doors to new business opportunities beyond UCC, offering integrators the chance to diversify service offerings and increase per-customer revenue.

• Monthly Cash Flow: Monthly subscriptionbased revenue streams offer stability and

By Phil Langley

forward UCC procurement approach.

As the technology infrastructure continues to be

T

optimized, “as-a-service” may ultimately apply to

predictability for integrators, smoothing out cash flow.

• Program Renewals: As organizations renew their AVaaS subscriptions, integrators benefit

he global workforce has undergone a

global Pro AV solution portfolios beyond UCC,

profound transformation in the 2020s,

overlapping with physical security applications

with remote work, hybrid models, and

including surveillance, access control, occupancy and

international collaboration becoming the new

environmental controls/sensors, and more delivered

global distribution partner, the need to

norm. Further enabled by accelerating technology

within a network secure environment designed to

maintain hardware inventory becomes moot,

innovations such as AVoIP, these changes have

satisfy the most stringent corporate IT security

giving integrators an enhanced working

solidified Pro AV unified communications and

protocols. This “as-a-service” concept will revolu-

capital position.

collaboration (UCC) solutions as an organizational

tionize how businesses approach technology procure-

workflow backbone. The next step in this evolution

ment and utilization. After revolutionizing software,

is shifting organizational focus away from hardware

the “as-a-service” model for UCC and other hardtech

desired outcomes, with hardware becoming a

and onto the outcome hardware delivers.

is just getting warmed up.

secondary or even tertiary concern. The goal is simply

Unlike in pre-pandemic times, as return to office

from ongoing revenue.

• Enhanced Working Capital: With the right

to pay for the desired service rather than procuring

(RTO) continues to evolve, global businesses are actively

OpEx vs. CapEx

re-evaluating AV/UCC procurement strategies to meet

Organizations traditionally have invested in

gives a strong competitive advantage to global

these dynamic environmental demands. One emerging

on-premises, bespoke UCC infrastructure, planning

distributors with the scale and scope to adopt a

paradigm gaining traction is AV-as-a-Service (AVaaS).

for and incurring significant capital expenditures

service-forward approach.

As network convergence continues with

(CapEx) to purchase and maintain hardware and

the hardware to provide that service. This change also

One of the primary drivers behind growing global

AVaaS adoption accelerating, due to multiple

software. But in a trend accelerated by the pandemic,

AVaaS adoption is a desire for procurement consist-

factors—including the shift from low-volume,

UCC equipment has become much less complex, with

ency, uniform user experience, and overall simplicity.

high-complexity to high-volume, low-complexity

higher-volume deployment needs, even as AVoIP and

The traditional CapEx procurement model involves

solutions—the AVaaS model is beginning to take

AVaaS further shift the former CapEx UCC equipment

significant planning and often large upfront invest-

off. Global end users realize AVaaS offers significant

paradigm to a subscription-based, OpEx-driven model.

ments in technology infrastructure, which can strain an

time and cost savings in purchasing, maintenance,

This evolution has empowered organizations to

organization’s financial resources. Moreover, it locks

and administration, setting the table for a service-

30

SCN // January 2024 // avnetwork.com

shift their procurement focus from hardware to

businesses into a specific technology stack, making it

AV-AS-A-SERVICE BUSINESS

challenging to address upgrades or changing needs.

approach to “as-a-service” adoption.

In contrast, OpEx enables organizations to treat

While the service-forward approach emphasizes

hardware solutions whenever, wherever, and however required—which makes it key for organizations to

UCC as an operational expense. With AVaaS, busi-

the importance of service procurement, hardware

look for distribution and integration partners with

nesses pay for the services they use (desired outcomes)

remains a key component of any AVaaS solution. The

global reach and a wide variety of offerings.

on a subscription basis. This OpEx model offers greater

critical factor here is the ability of global distribution

Phil Langley is the global SVP for enterprise AV and

financial flexibility as it aligns costs with usage,

and integration partners to provide UCC and other

UCC at Wesco.

making it easier to scale up or down as needed. OpEx also provides more predictable budgeting and frees up capital for other strategic initiatives.

Global Challenges Global supply chain disruptions and logistical challenges remain a stubborn reality for many global distributors. It’s no longer a question of if, but when, an organization will face these disruptions. In a recent CNBC survey of logistics managers, 59% of respondents did not expect the supply chain to return to normal until sometime in 2024 or 2025, and an additional 22% were unsure of the timeframe. That all adds up to ongoing supply chain uncertainty.

AVaaS encourages a service-forward perspective for those global distributors, with the supply chain and logistics expertise to effectively leverage this approach. They can anticipate and manage potential disruptions, ensuring that UCC and other services remain uninterrupted. This level of preparedness is essential for businesses that rely heavily on real-time communication and collaboration and other business tools where downtime can have severe consequences.

Even before recent supply chain disruptions, procurement and management of UCC hardware posed significant challenges. Organizations had to navigate the complexities of sourcing, deploying, and maintaining various hardware components. These challenges often led to delays, operational inefficiencies, and, ultimately, increased costs.

While hardware will always be a critical component of UCC and the Pro AV environment, adopting a service-forward approach can enhance overall efficiencies. It encourages organizations to shift their thinking from being concerned about where their UCC hardware comes from to focusing more on the services (outcomes) they are buying. It fundamentally changes the mindset from “I’m buying a specific hardware configuration” to “I’m buying UCC or other services that empower my global workforce.”

Integrator/Distributor Partnership Both distributors and integrators play a crucial role in the service-forward approach. Distributors can help foster end user partnerships with local, regional, national, or global integrators extending well beyond UCC solutions and increasing business opportunities for all concerned.

Integrators, in turn, guide organizations through the transition to “as-a-service” and ensure seamless integration into workflows.

Integrators also help organizations choose the right “as-a-service” solutions from distributors to meet specific end user needs, facilitating a tailored

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BUSINESS IMMERSIVE AV

selfie. Your feet will even appear to kick up dust and leave footprints on the Moon’s surface as you walk through the room.

From here, you’ll see buildings established on the moon for human explorers, see our solar system’s planets in huge and stunning detail, visit the constellations with their accompanying Zodiac signs, and encounter asteroids and break them into pieces by stomping on them on the floor as they whiz by (the kids love doing this). There’s also time to fly through a nebula and see other galaxies as they surround you on all sides. Your journey concludes by watching various historic NASA video clips as they cover the walls— Toronto’s Illuminarium occupies a building that once served as a distillery.

always immersive and always backed by clear, all-encompassing sound.

A Tour of Toronto’s Illuminarium Pro AV Technology Drives Immersive ‘Tour of the Universe’

Making the Magic “The Illuminarium experience reminds me very much of virtual reality, but it’s not such an isolated medium, it’s a shareable medium,” said Ryan Andal, president and founder of Secret Location and a partner in Illuminarium Experiences. “It’s meant for big groups of people, even though it provides the same level of storytelling, immersion, and empathy found in VR.” The visual power of “Space: A Journey to the Moon & Beyond” is made possible by Christie laser projectors

By James Careless

T

steaming on its launchpad in the pre-dawn light. This

strategically located throughout the space. Six Christie

is a 3D video experience: Glance around the room, and

M 4K25 RGB 3-DLP projectors, which deliver 25,300

the full-motion video creates a complete wraparound

lumens of brightness, are used in the holding room for

he term “mind-blowing” is one of the more

experience, almost as if you were actually there, in

the immersive view of the Saturn V rocket. In the

overused adjectives in the English language.

Florida, at that point in time 50 years ago.

L-shaped room, 20 36,500-lumen Christie Griffyn

But when it comes to the immersive wrap-

From here, the show host takes you and the other

around video “tour of the universe” offered by

visitors into a very large, L-shaped room. The walls and

Toronto’s Illuminarium at the Distillery District, no

floor of this room are all one interconnected, interac-

other term will do.

tive video experience that takes you from the moon to

Housed inside a 13,500-square-foot, 19th-century

the stars. You begin alongside the moon, as a seem-

stone building in the former Gooderham & Worts

ingly full-sized Apollo spacecraft attached to its lunar

distillery, “Space: A Journey to the Moon & Beyond” is

module floats by. Thanks to the video’s pristine 4K

a tribute to the breathtaking beauty of creative/

resolution and full range of clear, full colors, the entire

interactive video storytelling backed by stirring music

experience seems very real.

and sound effects, made possible by multiple Christie

This is just the beginning of your trip to the moon

RGB pure laser projectors working together. This

and beyond. Along the way, you’ll stand on the lunar

show and others planned for this site are being

surface and watch astronauts posing for pictures. They

produced by Illuminarium Experiences in partnership

are life-sized, so you can stand beside them and snap a

with Toronto-based Secret Location. Illuminarium Experiences has opened similar immersive facilities in Atlanta and Las Vegas.

Start Your Journey From the outside, the Toronto Illuminarium location looks like an historic, one-story extension connected to a multi-story white stone building dating back to the 1860s. The site itself, which was once home to the Gooderham & Worts distillery, is home to about 30 stone and brick heritage buildings that have been repurposed but retain their Victorian character.

Everything changes when you enter the Illuminarium. A ramp illuminated by pale LED light strips takes you into a large, tall holding room. Inside, you find yourself looking at a Saturn 5 moon rocket

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4K35-RGB 3-DLP projectors are used for the 30-minute

The immersive experience at Toronto’s Illuminarium sends visitors to the moon and beyond.

Christie projectors help create an immersive environment.

IMMERSIVE AV BUSINESS

main video, which runs on a loop.

and pipes (though out of view of the paying custom-

“I believe in mixing new architecture with old,

“We did a very detailed 3D Lidar [light detection

ers). But Secret Location, Illuminarium Experiences,

as has been done so successfully by the Louvre

and ranging] scan of the building in order to provide a

and Christie did the job right. Only those who know

museum in Paris,” Andal said. “Toronto also has that

detailed projection study for our Christie Professional

where to look for the seams can spot them. To the

history of mixing old and new, which I embrace. It’s

Services team,” said Joseph Conover, Christie’s

paying public, the physical space disappears as the

quite a sight to see that duality in action at the Toronto

director of immersive entertainment and live events.

universe swirls around them.

Illuminarium. I quite like it.”

“This told us how to choose the best projector locations and how to set up our lensing to bend the images around the walls and create a seamless video experience.”

Audio through the space is provided by 26 surround-sound speakers mounted through the space, 17 in-wall speakers, and six dual subwoofers between the two rooms. Meanwhile, the interactive portions are managed using Unreal Engine software, which is commonly used to render full-motion video games. To tell the show’s servers when to react, wall and ceiling-mounted Lidar cameras create a real-time, 3D tracking map. This allows the show operator to see exactly where each person in the L-shaped room is and what they are doing.

Mirror, Mirror Given that this is a 19th century industrial building, the L-shaped room has vertical support pillars cutting into its space. To mask these, Secret Location covered them with mirrors. This decision, coupled with artful choices regarding the locations of the video projectors, makes the pillars effectively disappear. If you look hard, you will notice the video reflecting off them—but in a big room filled with video everywhere, they don’t stand out. In fact, the eye ignores them.

“From a visual perspective, it looks great,” Andal said. “However, having mirrored pillars does create challenges in terms of our Lidar technology and any of the interactivity that you have on the floors. Those are things that we have to take into account, along with masking any projectors whose light could hit those mirrors directly.”

Of these two challenges, it was the projector placement that was the most daunting. “Our Lidar cameras have quite broad coverage, so there was never really an issue with those overall,” said Andal. “But since the Christie projectors have fixed lenses that we couldn’t zoom in and out, we had to physically move these projectors into the proper places based on throw distances and those sort of considerations. This is why we spent a lot of time doing a projector study upfront to make sure that we would get full coverage and make sure that the placement was correct. Obviously, over the course of the actual build, there was some fiddling around to move things here and there due to overhead hanging pipes and other things that we didn’t account for that took away from some of the projection, but for the most part it was good.”

It took a tremendous amount of planning and preparation to make a 21st century immersive AV experience like “Space: A Journey to the Moon & Beyond” work inside a converted 19th century distillery, which still houses many of the huge tanks

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33

TECHNOLOGY WIRELESS AUDIO

Bluetooth Vs. Wi-Fi What’s the Best Choice for Pro AV Integration?

means you can create an incredibly flexible wireless audio transmission system that works anywhere in an office, sports bar, event center, or school.

Wi-Fi also supports much higher bandwidth transmission than Bluetooth, although in real-time audio applications on mixed-criticality commercial networks, this bandwidth may need to be reserved. As a result, Wi-Fi transmission can achieve higher audio quality and is less prone to latency than Bluetooth.

Cons: The trade-off for quality is cost and ease of

By Brandon White

W

seamless. It’s also a relatively low-cost technology, a

implementation. Wi-Fi solutions generally require

big reason for its ubiquity.

more programming in the initial setup and more

Cons: Historically, Bluetooth’s range has been

support thereafter. They also often require special-

e live in an on-demand culture.

unimpressive. Older generations have topped out at

ized or proprietary components and software.

Everything, from streaming services

about 33 feet (10m) for indoor applications, and even

to delivery apps, has trained modern

the latest generations have a range of only 131 feet

mented their own proprietary Wi-Fi-based audio

individuals to expect precisely what they want,

(40m) indoors. If you’re aiming to allow end users to

systems, which are often not designed with compat-

where and when they want it. These on-demand

“un-tether” the source and receiver, it’s not accept-

ibility in mind. Choosing one of these solutions can

attitudes have profoundly affected AV design.

able to have the audio drop out whenever the user

make it extremely difficult to integrate components

walks into the next room.

from multiple manufacturers, essentially locking you

Modern workers and customers are no longer willing to “make do” with the technology or content

Bluetooth signals are also typically quite com-

In addition, many manufacturers have imple-

in to a single-vendor solution.

provided in a space. They anticipate being able to

pressed. This can affect audio quality—and, if there is

bring their own technology and content into any

accompanying video, cause latency issues as well.

What’s Your Priority?

environment and have them function as seamlessly

Newer codecs such as aptX or Apple’s AAC have

When it comes to wireless audio, the integrator must

as they do at home.

improved on this problem, but it’s still no match for

prioritize, balancing ease-of-use and interoperability

In terms of audio, this expectation translates to

wired or even alternative wireless technologies. If

against signal quality and range. There are excellent

offering wireless connectivity. Whether in conference

audio quality, distance, or video sync are critical

solutions available in both categories, but no silver

rooms, classrooms, or event spaces, users want the

considerations for your application, you may want to

bullets yet.

ability to share presentations with audio, demos,

instead consider Wi-Fi.

video clips, and even background music from their

Integrators must critically analyze the prevailing factors—including the environment, user preferences,

devices effortlessly. Given that many personal

Wi-Fi

devices come with a single USB-C or Lightning

Pros: The range for a wireless audio distribution

the contemporary expectations of an on-demand

output, which may or may not support audio, a

system is as good the wireless network itself. All the

culture. While there is no one-size-fits-all solution,

wireless solution becomes essential. Moreover, users

regular Wi-Fi rules apply: As long as you can create

the innovative advancements in both Bluetooth and

are reluctant to physically tether their devices to a

and maintain a stable network (using extenders,

Wi-Fi technologies enable us to create spaces where

system just to facilitate audio during a presentation.

repeaters, etc.), you can extend the range as long as

limitations are fewer, and the user experience is richer

Now that wireless BYOD connectivity is a baseline

you want. With proper network management, that

and more seamless.

and technical demands—to tailor a solution that meets

expectation, integrators have two paths to consider

Brandon White is director of new product

for every project: Bluetooth or Wi-Fi. While there is a

development for Vanco.

plethora of branded wireless audio connectivity solutions available, most rely on one of these two foundational technologies, each with its own set of pros and cons. Let’s break them down.

Bluetooth Pros: Bluetooth is nearly ubiquitous; most end users are familiar with it, often using it daily. This familiarity means that users can comfortably pair their devices with systems via Bluetooth without assistance. It’s also pervasive and standardized in the consumer device industry— practically all new phones, tablets, computers, and displays have Bluetooth built in, and it’s added to more devices every day.

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S

switching among sources is nearly

E AG

devices from space to space is simple, and

IM

devices will all be compatible. Transitioning

Y TT

able that your components as well as end user

GE

With Bluetooth, you can feel comfort-

TECHNOLOGY DIGITAL SIGNAGE

The video wall in The Engine’s headquarters provides information about climate, infrastructure, and human health.

‘Tough Tech’ on Display The Engine Story Wall Shares Dynamic Information about Transformative Solutions

By Jennifer Guhl

I

nity at large. For its new office building in Cambridge,

event space that faces outward to the neighborhood,

where they moved in August 2022, The Engine

onlookers are immersed with information concern-

wanted to construct something beautiful and

ing The Engine’s top problem areas: climate,

f you have ever heard the term “Tough Tech,”

design-oriented, clearly speaking to people about

infrastructure, and human health. “It’s like every

you may not know that one of the movement’s

the transformative significance of the problems that

day you could look at this and see different pieces of

biggest supporters lies with an innovative com-

Tough Tech startup founders and their companies

it,” added Knight.

pany out of Cambridge, MA, known as The Engine.

Founded in 2016, The Engine was built by the

tackle in a digestible way.

Over a two-week install process, with the wall going up over a 12-hour time frame, integrator AdTech

Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) to create

Simplified Storytelling

a more optimistic future, bridging the gap between

That’s where digital experience design firm SOSO

highlighted by Planar TVF Series 1.8mm LED video wall

discovery and commercialization for breakthrough

came in, helping The Engine visualize the concept

tiles mounted using standard Planar mounts. SOSO

inventions that make it easier for Tough Tech

through a video wall called The Engine Story Wall.

and The Engine selected the Planar display due to its

founders and companies to change the world. The

“We needed someone who could take this blend of

ability to show within the given space, allowing

Engine defines Tough Tech as any transformative

technology and hard-to-understand things and make

content to be clearly visible from the outside since the

technology that solves the most important global

it visually appealing, develop a story, and make it

video wall was very close to a window.

challenges through the convergence of breakthrough

fresh,” said Knight. SOSO sought further assistance

Measuring almost 22 feet long and about 11 feet

science, engineering, and leadership.

from the architectural firm Gensler to help flesh out

high, the 1.8mm pixel pitch allowed them to present

the design and detailing for the project.

crisp graphics and colorful forms, almost giving the

Two entities were formed and housed under the singular brand: Engine Ventures, a venture capital firm

Located in the entryway of their headquarters’

assisted with installing the selected technology,

appearance of floating on the screen through graphics

investing in early-stage companies, and The Engine

designed for the exact screen resolution. “I think

Accelerator, which ensures these companies have

tying the resolution of the graphics to the resolution

support systems in place in addition to capital. “We run

of the screen is an important piece of this, which I

programs for them as they’re thinking about spinning

think often gets overlooked,” said Eric Gunther,

that out in company formation, bridging the gaps

creative director for SOSO.

between idea to investment and investment to impact,”

Using a custom, web-based CMS system built by

explained Emily Knight, COO, The Engine Accelerator.

SOSO’s team, The Engine staff can login from any

But even for one of Tough Tech’s biggest innova-

location to easily upload content of the companies

tors, it’s sometimes hard to connect the Tough Tech dots and communicate that clearly with the commu-

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SCN // January 2024 // avnetwork.com

they want to highlight. The system also pulls live data From left, Emily Knight and Eric Gunther

through established hashtags and system algorithms,

DIGITAL SIGNAGE TECHNOLOGY

providing The Engine with a control system that can continue to evolve as they scale their work.

The Engine is even presenting a series on what

In the future, The Engine looks forward to

Tough Tech is and its impact, and the video wall helps

expanding the different inputs that go into the content,

“We can create dynamic views that are always

provide a more professional, engaging setting. Knight

expanding outputs with new companies, more areas

changing,” added Gunther. “As the data changes on

hopes this is just the beginning of ways to utilize the

of Tough Tech, and trending news stories. “We get to

the back end, the front end is constantly updating.”

technology. “It’s become connective tissue in ways

continue to tell the story and tell it in a bigger way that

we didn’t even think it would,” she said.

circles back to the impact,” said Knight.

The dynamic nature of the screen allows it to stand out, pulling in data on the fly, like when the team integrated X (formerly Twitter) feeds or recently collected press stories to be featured in the content stream. The software is developed to have an organic, stream-of-consciousness approach to presenting the content, starting with a fixed point and then looking at everything related to that to build out the content, giving people a constantly changing window into a

The Engine Adopts Humly Solution for Space Booking

dynamic ecosystem.

“Even with the fixed content, you never know which

Humly’s premium hardware solutions for the

associate for The Engine Accelerator. “Our facility has resources for chem-based, bio-based, and engineering-based businesses, and being able to have all of these resources in place and supplement them with programming and networking elements allows our technology residents to get the most out of our facility.”

With an active community of innovators moving

way it’s going to go through the ecosystem,” Gunther

modern workplace are now prominently visible

throughout the facility each business day, places to

explained. “There’s an ecosystem of The Engine

throughout all five floors of The Engine, a Boston-

meet, gather, and collaborate often come at a

Ventures’ portfolio companies, investment areas, and

based enterprise that provides a professional

premium. “The Engine is a very fast-paced environ-

UN sustainability goals. There are all these different

business environment for technology innovators

ment with a lot of movement, and people here

pieces, and it’s constantly finding new paths to that

throughout the region. That visibility has provided

need a system that can manage and track all

information. Almost like a giant visual pivot table.”

immediate value for the technology innovators and

of the activity throughout the building,” said Kusi

facility managers that now know the precise status

Minka. “Our Nexudus software has been excep-

Visualizing the Message

of nearly every private gathering space in the build-

tional, allowing our residents to easily book spaces

The installation process encountered minimal issues

ing, thanks to the color-coded Humly Room

from their laptops and personal devices through a

or challenges; a minor overheating issue required

Display panels mounted outside their doorways.

front-end portal. Less exceptional were the previ-

increased venting, which was the only thing the team

The Engine Accelerator completed the rollout of

ous meeting room display panels at each door,

had to work through on the technical side. Knight

its new Humly Room Display network in September,

which had no direct integration to Nexudus. That

referenced that the biggest challenge was SOSO

installing more than 50 Humly Room Display panels

often led to confusion as to whether a room was

needing to be patient with The Engine as they learned

outside meeting spaces of all sizes, from large board

free or booked.”

how to use this medium to conceptualize their ideas.

and conference rooms down to small focus rooms

The Humly Room Display panels have solved

and labs. The panels interface with The Engine’s

that problem. Each panel displays the room

minds, what we wanted, and how we referred to

existing Nexudus software booking system, ensuring

number and meeting duration along with green

things,” said Knight. “We have different ways of

that all bookings are automatically synchronized.

(open) and red (booked) bezel lighting and type

talking about things and verbalizing them. We

The result is a simple and streamlined space booking

that are visible from a distance, eliminating any

absolutely got it right, but we probably went through

ecosystem that populates current meeting details

confusion as to whether a room is available or not.

many iterations and made them change over time.”

and booking status on each panel throughout

Since each Humly Room Display constantly speaks

the facility.

to Nexudus over The Engine’s local area and Wi-Fi

“They were very patient with us as we changed our

SOSO said it began to visualize the video wall

“Our main objective is bringing top tech

almost like a machine, a visual machine that is the

networks, residents can now book an open room

vehicle in which to share information. The team

founders together and putting them into a system

on the spot with the assurance they won’t inter-

focused on condensing all the complexity into

where they can freely collaborate with each other,”

rupt an important meeting or be interrupted once

understandable imagery, demonstrating the work’s

said Nana Kusi Minka, community operations

theirs is underway.

impact on their lives.

“These are like big physical parts reconfiguring in real time to tell the story,” added Gunther. “Some parts of that were quite challenging to build in software—and to the point where I felt like I had to make sure it was clear to people on the street and they walked away with something.”

However, the display has had an unexpected internal reaction. Knight wasn’t sure the founders or executives would ever see it, but they have become some of the biggest consumers. When The Engine hosts events within the space, the video wall complements or enhances what the executives or founders speak about, including enlarging their pictures behind them as they present. They have also had content running during other events where attendees, for the first time, make the connection about what The Engine truly does.

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37

Humly Room Display panels have helped streamline space booking at The Engine.

TECHNOLOGY PRODUCT REVIEW

Follow You, Follow Me Yamaha CS-800 Video Soundbar Is Ready for Your Next Meeting

By Chuck Gloman

W

henever a meeting is planned in more

buttons, Smart Framing on/off button, speaker

the posters moved, I’m sure the CS-800 would track

volume rocker switch, and microphone mute. The

them. Of course, if the posters did move, I would have

center directional pad provides access to device

other issues.

pairing and the settings menu.

Still in testing mode, I moved left and right, got up

than one place, the participants in all

Once the menu is accessed, you have several

the locations must be able to easily see

options. The menu opens on the Meeting area, with

left and right movements were easily tracked, but

and hear everyone. Yamaha Unified Communications

the CS-800’s 4K camera displaying what the video

when I got up, although slowly, the camera lagged for a

offers the CS-800 video soundbar for both. Weighing

soundbar sees. You have dropdown options of

moment before catching up. If I moved too quickly, the

in at less than 4 pounds, the 24.4-inch unit is small

Horizontal Angle and Max Distance, which help set

screen image would “cut” to me in the new position.

enough for transport and robust enough to cover a

the camera parameters. The Smart Framing icon

Much like a director determining that the

120-degree field of view in 4K at 30 fps, as well as up

offers a choice of Individual, Group, or Speaker

movement of the actor wasn’t important, I guess the

to 19.7 feet with its microphone.

tracking. The Camera Preset menu allow you to set

CS-800’s AI determined that seeing the person in

There’s a lot of technology behind the CS-800’s

specific framing for certain areas of the room. The

their new location was more important than watching

performance. When people walk into the room, the

Microphone menu allows you to adjust Face Focus,

them get there. I suppose I can’t be too critical of the

CS-800 has an auto wake-up function that turns the

Beamforming, and Self Silence, while the Speaker

CS-800; camera operators often lag in their move-

system on and starts the meeting. Its 4K camera (with

menu has Self and Volume Balance options. Select the

ment if they don’t know where the speaker is moving

8-megapixel CMOS sensor) offers a 5x zoom to

last option, Bluetooth, to pair the unit.

next. It’s still amazing that AI is determining what to

capture the room’s occupants in a close-up or wide

Setup of the Yamaha CS-800 is straightforward.

and slowly paced the perimeter of the room. My slow

do—and is correct most of the time.

shot. With Yamaha’s Smart Framing technology,

In fact, the most difficult part of the setup was

speaking people are recognized and framed without

accessing the button battery compartment. Once

a meeting in our medium-sized conference room, with

input from a camera operator.

opened and the batteries were installed, pairing was

20 people in attendance and two joining remotely via

quicky achieved. The HDMI connected from the back

Zoom. As I mentioned, the video soundbar is extremely

Face Focus Beamforming and other technologies for

of the CS-800 to our large 55-inch monitor, while a

portable and can be carried and setup in the new room.

positioning information—the Yamaha CS-800

USB-C cable end attached to the back of the unit and

It was ready to go in less than two minutes.

camera and microphone pick up the speaker’s

the USB-A cable end connected to my computer.

location and tracks their movements, all while

Having a MacBook Pro, I would have preferred two

amazing success. The speaker was easily tracked—

blocking out unwanted noises. For audio, SoundCap

USB-C ends on the cable, but I used an adapter to

and when other faculty or staff in the meeting spoke,

Eye finds the person speaking and reduces back-

convert the USB-A to a USB-C.

the CS-800 had no trouble finding who was speaking.

Using Yamaha’s new SoundCap Eye—AI that uses

ground noise with the “hexa-microphone.” If there

My next test was to use the Yamaha CS-800 during

In this real-world situation, the CS-800 was an

The two people on Zoom said they could see who was

are moments of silence, the Human Voice Activity

Right on Track

Detection (HVAD) technology temporarily silences

Once configured, I accessed the setting menu. Before

mounted TV monitor camera, and the sound was

the microphone until someone speaks (instead of

trying the video soundbar for a meeting, I wanted to

“amazingly good for a Zoom meeting.”

raising the background ambience).

see how it worked with just me. A green square

Making Adjustments

asking the questions better than the usual center-

The Yamaha CS-800 is a perfect “hybrid”

surrounded my face and tracked me as I moved. As the

balance of AI, video, and audio technology in a video

only person in our university’s TV studio control

soundbar. Easily moved and quickly connected, it

If you’re using the CS-800 on a table, it’s easy to

room, I selected “Individual” in Smart Framing. As

has a small footprint and is very versatile. Its AI

attach the table stand with two screws. There’s also

expected, the green box tracked with me.

technology makes the speaker the star of the show

an included wall mounting bracket, or you can

Even though I was alone, I selected “Group” and

(or presentation), eliminates the need of a camera

purchase the monitor mounting bracket (sold

yellow boxes surrounded the faces of students on the

operator or sound technician, and delivers solid 4K

separately). The included HDMI cable connects the

wall posters behind me. This was impressive. The

video and pristine sound.

CS-800 to a monitor, while the USB-A to USB-C cable

Yamaha CS-800 recognized faces on the posters and

Chuck Gloman is an associate professor and chair

(also included) connects the CS-800 to your com-

didn’t select the non-human items in the posters. If

of the TV/Film Department at DeSales University.

puter. Power the video soundbar via the AC cable, then configure the remote to the Yamaha and link it to your computer via Bluetooth.

The CS-800’s centrally located video camera pans and tilts with the speaker’s movements. A small LED indicator between the speakers illuminates either white, blue, green, or red, depending on the status.

The rear features a factory reset button and an AC adapter input, along with the USB-C and HDMI ports.

Moving clockwise around the round remote control, starting to the right of the Yamaha logo, is the power button, zoom rocker switch, camera preset

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SCN // January 2024 // avnetwork.com

The Yamaha CS-800, shown here in the DeSales University control room, was easy to setup and transport.

TECHNOLOGY NEW PRODUCTS

Sharp/NEC NC603L/NC1503L

DPA Microphones 2017 Shotgun Microphone

installed, future maintenance and upgrades are as

Designed to capture authentic

itself is narrow and flexible, the durable fiber housing

sound with high directivity, clarity,

and dust-proof connectors withstand harsh environ-

and consistency, the 2017 has a durable

mental conditions to ensure years of trouble-free use.

design for use in harsh environments.

It supports throughput up to 48 Gbps, supporting 8K

It has been tested for use in settings

content at 60Hz or 4K content at 120Hz over distances

with temperatures up to 104 degrees

of up to 1,000 feet with near-zero EMI.

simple as swapping out the head units without having to replace existing in-wall cabling. While the cable

The newest addition to the Digital Cinema Projector

with 90% relative humidity, as well as cold

Series, the NC1503L Laser Projector offers the latest RB

environments as low as -40 degrees.

Laser Phosphor technology for a speckle free, high-

Featuring a specifically designed capsule

quality image. The NC603L blue laser with phosphor

that is paired with an advanced interference tube

offers the same speckle free high-quality images for

and microphone grid, the 2017 offers outstanding

small screens. Built-in laser light sources make both

performance, both on and off-axis. DPA also

models ideal digital cinema projection solutions for

prioritized versatility with the compact, 7.24-inch

theaters with small and mid-sized screens looking for

2017, creating a mic that is ideal not only for fixed or

high-quality cinema projection. The laser technology

booming applications in live sports and news, but also

also produces less heat when compared to conven-

in the theater on a FOH boom or fly bar, as well as

ClearOne Versa USB22D

tional lamp-based projection systems, which lowers

location sound and musical performances.

The new Versa USB22D Dante adapter connects any

HVAC requirements and results in lower operational

computer to a Dante network with no software

costs. Both the new NC603L and NC1503L use internal

installation. It can be used with any audio application

chillers, and their smaller-sized cabinets allow for

for playback or capture, making it ideal for a wide

ceiling-mount installation within the theater or

range of small to mid-sized meeting spaces for BYOM

projection booth for flexible installation options. With

audio and videoconferencing, as well as in-room

low noise levels, the NC1503L (50dB) and NC603L

presentations. The Versa USB22D supports two input

(39dB) provide reassurance they will not create a

Panasonic Connect AK-UCU700

distraction in the theater.

Panasonic Connect’s next-generation camera control

mobile devices to play and capture audio with

unit (CCU), the AK-UCU700, enables an easier

Dante-enabled devices over a standard IP network.

migration path to IP workflows. Providing the ability

The USB22D delivers bit-perfect audio reproduction,

to utilize a wide lineup of camera heads with a

super-low latency, and sample-accurate synchroni-

common accessory infrastructure, it supports easy

zation across the entire Dante network. Plus, it works

integration of a traditional CCU into any new ST 2110

seamlessly with Dante-enabled devices. Power with a

backbone or streaming production. Even if crews

computer USB port or PoE switch.

and two output channels of audio, allowing PCs and

aren’t certain about which IP workflows they’ll need to support in the future—whether it’s streaming SRT, NDI, or ST 2110—the AK-UCU700 supports a simplified upgrade process when the time comes, making scalability seamless. Specifically, it offers a variety of

Sony EZ20L Series

additional I/F boards that facilitate the transition from the current baseband operation to IP operation.

The latest professional BRAVIA displays offers six

The AK-UCU700 supports integration of new IP

models ranging from 43-85 inches. Ideal for corpo-

workflows with a range of Panasonic cameras, and is

Matrox KMLync

rate, education, and retail applications, the EZ20L 4K

equipped with a 3.5-inch LCD touchpanel.

The KMLync USB keyboard and mouse switch

series is built upon the robust usability, installation

enables users to control multiple systems or Matrox

flexibility, picture quality, and sustainability

Extio 3 IP KVM devices from their control rooms

common to all of Sony’s professional BRAVIA display

through a single keyboard/mouse setup. Available as

products. The EZ20L models provide basic profes-

a standalone keyboard and mouse switch or as an

sional features including simplified pro settings for

accessory to the Extio 3 IP KVM product line, KMLync

streamlined setup and maintenance, as well as

enables seamless mouse switching between up to

RS-232C support, standard IP control, 16/7 opera-

four different input sources (KVM or other). KMLync

tion, and 350 nits of brightness for high visibility

increases efficiency for operators with smoother,

indoors. Additional highlights of the EZ20L series

Pure Fi Pro HDMI 2.1 AOC

include a free, pre-installed BRAVIA Signage app,

Designed for Pro AV installations, the Pure Fi Pro

content on multiple monitors will feel like one large,

administrative functionality to turn off inputs,

HDMI 2.1 Active Optical Cable (AOC) features a

extended desktop. Operators can monitor and

built-in mirroring directly from a user’s device, a

modular design for easy installation and a CL3 rating to

control multiple sources across a quad 4K60 monitor

slim bezel, flexible installation options, a wide

ensure worry-free in-wall use. Detachable Tx and Rx

setup or even larger configurations with up to 16

viewing angle, a powerful 4K Processor X1, 4K

modules make it possible to fish the cable through

1080p60 monitors. When KMLync is paired with

X-Reality PRO for upscaling content, as well as

conduit and other narrow openings with ease before

Extio 3, operators can visualize more information

sustainability features.

terminating at the desired endpoints. Once the cable is

and improve response time.

40

SCN // January 2024 // avnetwork.com

easier switching for faster access to information. All

NEW PRODUCTS TECHNOLOGY

CODA Audio CiRAY As the third element of

AVer CAM520 Pro3

CODA’s VCA family, the

The CAM520 Pro3

dual 10-inch CiRAY line

is a Full HD PTZ

array system has been

camera designed

developed to deliver

for medium to large

flexibility for rental

conference rooms

companies and complete a

that has received

full spectrum of line array

Zoom certification.

products for installation.

It features a 12x optical lens with

LynTec Xtend Relay Module for Lighting

compact CiRAY loud-

36x total zoom. The CAM520 Pro3 is equipped with a

LynTec's standalone Xtend Relay Module for

speakers are

Sony 8 MP sensor with WDR (wide dynamic range)

Lighting (XRL) comes in a 20-amp cube enclosure with

transportable as a six

that offers crisp images and video—including

two Truecon outputs, each independently controlled

pack on a specially

refined shadows, highlights, and white balance—

by its own electrical relay. The module can be placed

designed dolly with covers and LID technology for

even in dimly lit environments. Users can capture

on rigging, behind line arrays, or anywhere equipment

efficient truck storage. An overall hang of 12 loud-

wide-angle shots with an 80-degree diagonal

is located. Each module contains two Truecon

speakers (2x6) can be set up in minutes by just a

field of view. The CAM520 Pro3 includes AVer

connections, a power plug, and an Ethernet port.

single operator, with all cabinets set for their relative

SmartFrame, which automatically focuses on

Each Truecon can be turned off independently.

angles to drop into place once lifted. Three cabinets

participants, and Preset Framing, which efficiently

Integration is simple and straightforward: Connect

can be powered from just one channel of CODA’s

follows presenters through preset areas. The

the module to a power source and the network, and

LINUS14 DSP amplifier, so only one amplifier is

CAM520Pro3 is the first PTZ camera to integrate

then plug in the equipment that needs power control.

required for a full hang of 12 using an industry-

Smart Composition, an embedded AI function that

Using LynTec's IP-based GUI, users can set up and

standard power amp cable. CiRAY features CODA’s

enables users to integrate headshots and half-body

customize the protocol for each device, providing an

Dual Diaphragm Planar Wave Driver (DDP) and

views easily, smoothly converting from an

integrated and affordable approach to whole venue

Dynamic Airflow Cooling (DAC).

individual visual to a group image.

power control.

The ultra-light, ultra-

FIBER CABLES

FLYPACKS & ROAD CASES

FURNITURE

MODULAR FLOOR BOXES

INSTALLATION PRODUCTS

To Advertise in the SYSTEMS CONTRACTOR NEWS CLASSIFIEDS, Contact Zahra Majma at zahra.majma@futurenet.com

For the latest industry news and information, visit us online at

avnetwork.com avnetwork.com // January 2024 // SCN

41

VIEWPOINT

Bringing Women Back to Pro AV WAVIT Reflects on Successful First Year and Plans for the Future

By Gina Sansivero

P

Progress Report

major trade publication. And we’ve exceeded our 2023

One year in, the organization is actively growing.

sponsorship goals, because this industry values the

Our biggest challenge is leveraging the bandwidth of

mission of our organization and wants to support our

assion needs an outlet, otherwise it is

our members. We are well aware that just a few

activities, as well as the overall impact WAVIT will

extinguished. Gripping tightly to faith

passionate individuals cannot take on all of the

continue to make on gender diversity.

that things will change is simply a dream

required work.

unless action accompanies faith. It’s hard to believe

WAVIT’s foundational pillars of empowerment,

Looking Forward

that about a year ago, a passionate group of women

education, and outreach have translated into a

Even with all that, so much of what WAVIT has been

launched the Women in AV/IT (WAVIT) 501c3

number of committees that each have a charter and

working on is behind the scenes. The board made a

organization.

priority tasks to strategically move forward. We

very deliberate decision to create foundation and

have committee chairs that are committed to

structure first—to have the resources and blocks in

industries, they have historically been, unrelentingly

If you look at the demographics of the AV and IT

ensuring that their groups meet regularly—and that

place for our committees, volunteers, sponsors,

even, mostly men. During the pandemic, the esti-

outcomes are in line with organizational goals. The

supporters, and affiliates to support the mission

mated breakdown of the AV industry decreased from

organization continues to grow,

with intentional action. We

14% women to 11% women, according to AVIXA.

and our committees need volun-

promise, there is so much more

teers now more than ever.

to come, which will be revealed

Now, 14% was already a small number, one that hadn’t grown significantly in years. To lose 21% of the

Some opportunities to volunteer

later this year with deliberate

women from our industry seemed unbelievable, and

include the sponsorship committee, membership

steps and well-defined goals.

yet, completely plausible. I won’t go into all the

committee, outreach committee, programming and

reasons women may have left the industry and

events committee, safety committee, diversity

workforce; that’s been covered by our industry and

committee, wellness committee, and marketing

media outlets globally. However, it left us wondering:

committee. Additionally, we have developed strategic

had no interest in volunteering time or being

How do we rebuild? More than that, how do we

alliances with affiliated organizations like the

involved because she “had to fight hard for every

accelerate the rebuild?

Women of Digital Signage, #GALSNGEAR, Women in

step [she] made in the industry, and believes it

WAVIT ‘s founding message was strong: We will

Consumer Technology, and HETMA, among others.

made her a better professional and stronger leader.

place a major emphasis on education, mentorship,

We are working with companies like American

Others should and could do it, too.” I walked away

In speaking with industry peers about the WAVIT initiatives, one woman said that she

and establishing career pathways for retaining

Music and Sound to develop an internship program

women in the industry, as well as creating new

for young women and incorporating mentorship as a

from that conversation deeply saddened.

The women in the AV and IT industries struggle,

pathways for young women to enter. Creating partner

key part of the internship experience, with the hope

yes. And it makes them great leaders and incredible

alliances with other trade associations, organizations,

of retaining these women in the industry after the

professionals. But imagine how much further

and media companies that bring opportunities for

internship concludes. We’ve also created specialized

women can go if we just lift each other up.

women to be championed and recognized for their

relationships with Pace University to support their

strengths is what WAVIT is all about.

new minor in AV technology.

We can surely make an effort to take a fraction of the struggle off incoming women at the begin-

As it’s been said many times about diversification,

There’s more: We launched a WAVIT job board for

ning of their careers or give them tools that we

individuals want to see themselves reflected. As much

AV/IT companies and related markets to leverage and

didn’t have. Ultimately this gives them strength to

as people want to be unique, they also want to be in an

diversify their applicant pool. Further, we have

hit new milestones for us all. Believe me, we aren’t

organization or industry that is accepting, relevant,

created a speaker’s bureau for WAVIT women, which

eliminating the struggle that women in STEM

and relatable. There is opportunity, no matter where

media and event partners can access to help connect

experience any time soon—there are many oppor-

one is in their career, to help modify the culture of the

female subject matter experts with opportunities for

tunities for women to become strong professionals

industry. Our priorities have to be solidified and

exposure. Plus, we’ve secured a monthly segment,

and leaders in these industries.

linked: education, empowerment, diversification.

written by our members on topics of their choice, in a

Think about it: Those women we help are more likely to help others achieve more. That is how we

We can surely make an effort to take a fraction of the struggle off incoming women at the beginning of their careers or give them tools that we didn’t have.

42

SCN // January 2024 // avnetwork.com

accelerate our growth. Diversity means strength, strength for our companies and our industries. If we struggle to diversify, our industry is less relevant, less innovative, and less able to weather storms.

Shouldn’t this be a priority?

Gina Sansivero is VP of marketing and corporate communications for AtlasIED and president of WAVIT.