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EV CHARGERS The Next Big Digital Signage Opportunity?
AVNETWORK.COM
FEBRUARY 2024
18 Sign of the Times Visix COO Trey Hicks shares the secrets of better digital signage.
22 On Your Business Steve Greenblatt says your company needs more than tech.
42 Viewpoint
18
22
42
Logitech’s Eamon O’Doherty discusses three hybrid headaches.
BETTER DECISIONS, FASTERTM
Integrated Solutions for Command and Control Any data, any network, any display Video Wall Processors Desktop Multiviewers Visual Data Recorders KVM Enterprise Level AV-over-IP Learn more at rgb.com
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YOUR INSIDER BUSINESS RESOURCE FOR MORE THAN 30 YEARS
®
EV CHARGERS The Next Big Digital Signage Opportunity?
AVNETWORK.COM
FEBRUARY 2024
18 Sign of the Times Visix COO Trey Hicks shares the secrets of better digital signage.
22 On Your Business Steve Greenblatt says your company needs more than tech.
42 Viewpoint
18
22
42
Logitech’s Eamon O’Doherty discusses three hybrid headaches.
BETTER DECISIONS, FASTERTM
Integrated Solutions for Command and Control Any data, any network, any display Video Wall Processors Desktop Multiviewers Visual Data Recorders KVM Enterprise Level AV-over-IP Learn more at rgb.com
CONTENTS 24
Take Charge Learn how the booming EV charger market can spark
opportunities for Pro AV integrators.
People 16 Executive Q&A RoomReady’s Aaron McArdle breaks down what’s important for hybrid meeting rooms. By Mark J. Pescatore
18 Executive Q&A
31 A Winning Bet in Downtown Hartford See how Metinteractive helped create a 131-foot video wall for a new sportsbook. By Jennifer Guhl
32 Next-Level Networking Custom networks can help leverage the latest technologies and meet rising expectations in
Trey Hicks from Visix shares the secrets for better
the office.
digital signage deployments.
By Bryce Nordstrand
By Mark J. Pescatore
22 On Your Business
Technology
Technology is important, but you also need business
34 Immersive ‘Expressions’
know-how to be successful.
The National WWII Museum is celebrating veterans
By Steve Greenblatt
with an outdoor projection mapping experience.
Business 28 Shopping for DOOH
By Wayne Cavadi
36 Learning Reimagined
28 Viewpoint 42 Hybrid Headaches Technology can help businesses find balance with
A new facility at the Rochester Institute of Technology
inclusivity, innovation, and corporate culture.
Samsung is helping Hy-Vee supermarkets deliver
uses Pro AV solutions in classrooms and more.
By Eamon O’Doherty
digital content to in-store shoppers.
By Ledetta Asfa-Wossen
By Carolyn Heinze
30 Menus and More
38 Cloud Power Designing your client’s hybrid system might be less
The Waukesha School District is getting creative with
complicated than creating the cost analysis.
its digital signage content.
By Dave Van Hoy
Departments 4 SYSTEMS CHECK 6 NEWS 20 NEWSMAKERS 40 NEW PRODUCTS
Vol. 31 No. 2 February 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 2024 by Future US, Inc. PRINTED IN U.S.A.
avnetwork.com // February 2024 // SCN
3
®
SYSTEMS CHECK Your digital menu board should be tempting customers, not confusing them.
avnetwork.com
FEBRUARY 2024 VOL. 31 NO. 2 CONTENT
VP/Content Creation Anthony Savona Content Director Mark J. Pescatore, Ph.D. mark.pescatore@futurenet.com Senior Content Manager Wayne Cavadi Contributors Ledetta Asfa-Wossen, Eamon O'Doherty, Steve Greenblatt, Jennifer Guhl, Peter Hansen, Carolyn Heinze, Bryce Nordstrand, Dave Van Hoy 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
MARK J. PESCATORE Content Director
Ballad of the Broken Signage A handful of clouds stretched awake as they lay across the early sky. Then
came a light breeze that whispered of cooler temperatures and the promise of softer sunsets. It was a morning when it seemed prudent to button your
mark.pescatore@futurenet.com
coat, but far wiser to leave it open. There was a lightening sky of potential that left a
man unburdened of his obligations and invigorated him with wishes and possibilities. And yet, as I stood in line at the local quick-serve restaurant, there was no breeze, FACEBOOK
facebook.com/ systemscontractor
no potential. Instead, there was only: “You want a frozen what, now? What is that—and how much does it cost?” A little context: I’m not a coffee drinker. I will have the occasional coffee drink, but the actual coffee part of the beverage is basically an afterthought drowned in syrup, whipped cream, and other sugar-infused ingredients. It is rare to find me in any coffee-themed
LINKEDIN linkedin.com/company/ systems-contractor-news
QSR, so I don’t have a go-to elixir for these places. I also need to review my seasonal choices. Do I want something with pumpkin or peppermint or suntan lotion flavoring? In other words, I’m going to need a minute. And a menu. On this particular morning, I decided to take my kid out for a special before-school outing. There was supposedly some seasonal treat she just had to have. I’m reasonably
TWITTER twitter.com/scnmag
sure it was the same thing they always served, just decorated with different frosting or sprinkles or whatever, but the heart wants what it wants. To go with that very exclusive confection, she wanted some sort of caramel-flavored iced latte drink. Again, no idea what she was talking about, so I looked up at the menu. It wasn’t there. In fact, almost nothing was there. Turns out their digital menu board had malfunctioned. Of the four panels spread across the upper wall, only one was working properly. If my kid wanted a chai latte or a handful of other beverages, I was totally in the know with pricing and even calorie counts. Unfortunately, neither her drink nor her treat was on the working panel, so I was flying blind. Luckily, she knew the proper names of her choices and the worker behind the counter was able to fill the order. Two of the other panels had promotional videos on display, but it was as if each panel was only showing one-quarter of its actual message, so you could only see bits and pieces. The panel on the far right was even worse: It was displaying a computer screen that looked like someone needed to press a button and reboot the whole system. In technical terms, the digital menu board content management system at this QSR was wonky. Maybe it was an easy fix, or maybe the CMS had been seriously compromised. Either way, its poor performance made it difficult for customers like me to consider alternatives or additions to their orders (read: lost business). I would guess that most people who frequent a QSR know what they want, no matter what time of day (or season) they visit. However, not everyone has an order that’s locked and loaded. With today’s sophisticated graphics, a digital menu board can be a fantastic upsell tool for indecisive diners. But only if it works.
4
SCN // February 2024 // avnetwork.com
Managing Vice President of Sales, B2B Tech Adam Goldstein, adam.goldstein@futurenet.com, 212-378-0465 Sales John Casey, john.casey@futurenet.com, 845-678-3839 Janis Crowley, janis.crowley@futurenet.com, 845-414-6791 Debbie Rosenthal, debbie.rosenthal@futurenet.com, 212-378-0468 Zahra Majma, zahra.majma@futurenet.com, 845-678-3752 Andi Tureson andi.tureson@futurenet.com SUBSCRIBER CUSTOMER SERVICE
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130 West 42nd Street, 7th Floor New York, NY 10036 All contents ©2024 Future US, Inc. or published under licence. All rights reserved. No part of this magazine may be used, stored, transmitted or reproduced in any way without the prior written permission of the publisher. Future Publishing Limited (company number 2008885) is registered in England and Wales. Registered office: Quay House, The Ambury, Bath BA1 1UA. All information contained in this publication is for information only and is, as far as we are aware, correct at the time of going to press. Future cannot accept any responsibility for errors or inaccuracies in such information. You are advised to contact manufacturers and retailers directly with regard to the price of products/services referred to in this publication. Apps and websites mentioned in this publication are not under our control. We are not responsible for their contents or any other changes or updates to them. This magazine is fully independent and not affiliated in any way with the companies mentioned herein. If you submit material to us, you warrant that you own the material and/or have the necessary rights/ permissions to supply the material and you automatically grant Future and its licensees a licence to publish your submission in whole or in part in any/all issues and/or editions of publications, in any format published worldwide and on associated websites, social media channels and associated products. Any material you submit is sent at your own risk and, although every care is taken, neither Future nor its employees, agents, subcontractors or licensees shall be liable for loss or damage. We assume all unsolicited material is for publication unless otherwise stated, and reserve the right to edit, amend, adapt all submissions. Please Recycle. We are committed to only using magazine paper which is derived from responsibly managed, certified forestry and chlorine-free manufacture. The paper in this magazine was sourced and produced from sustainable managed forests, conforming to strict environmental and socioeconomic standards.
NEWS
Chief Supports New Video Wall at AVI-SPL Showroom Texas Motor Speedway Upgrades Big Hoss TV Texas Motor Speedway’s (TMS) new Big Hoss TV
C
hief’s TiLED video wall mounting system
solutions are safe, secure, and flawlessly deployed.
was used to deploy a Nanolumens ENGAGE
Not unlike how we would solve a problem in the field,
Series dvLED display at AVI-SPL’s new
we were able to work with Nanolumens and Chief to
Dallas showroom. Nanolumens recommended the
room wall could not securely support the dvLED display independently. The TiLED solution ensured a seamless installa-
videoboard debuted in September for the
tion of the 6x6 video wall for 163-inch diagonal
Autotrader EchoPark Automotive 400 NASCAR
displays, which is part of a showcase that allows
Playoff weekend. Sited on the backstretch of the
AVI-SPL’s clients to see the future of collaborative
track, it is made up of digiLED VISION ULTRA
and hybrid workspaces. The Nanolumens display
panels and stands 11 stories high. A key criterion
includes thin, stackable, 16:9 display cabinets that
for the replacement screen was to reuse the
eliminate dangling cables with simple snap-in and
existing steel structure, which in turn removed
snap-out connectors. The Chief TiLED mount
the need for TMS to repurchase about 15 tons of
enables precise adjustment and control of the X, Y,
steel. The existing layout meant that the
and Z axes. The mount facilitated such rapid
original power supplies could also be repur-
deployment of the dvLED video wall in the AVI-SPL
posed. The screen was built, tested, and shipped
showroom that what is typically a three-day process
within 60 days of the order being placed, and
was completed in only nine hours.
VISION ULTRA’s unique cabinet design helped
“It’s critical that our work demonstrates the
installer GoVision reduce installation time to
excellence of our design, engineering, and imple-
only five weeks.
mentation services,” said Erich Schriefer, design engineer, AVI-SPL. “That means ensuring that our
New AVI Systems Team Focused on Federal Government Agencies
I
ensure the display was deployed the right way.”
TiLED video wall mounting system when the show-
A new Nanolumens dvLED display at AVI-SPL’s Dallas showroom was installed using Chief’s TiLED mounting system.
Ross Expands NDI Licensing, Exits LED Display Business Ross Video and NDI have announced a strategic partnership that allows Ross to broadly license and adopt NDI technology across its portfolio, extending and enhancing its existing support for the NDI
n an effort to better serve its growing U.S.
grow in size and scope,” said Don Mastro, chief revenue
standard. The collaboration will also allow Ross to
government business, AVI Systems today
officer at AVI Systems. “AVI has expanded its delivery
incorporate the most current AV networking features
announced the creation of its new Federal Markets
and support capabilities to ensure we can meet the
across its portfolio through NDI Advanced, including its
team. The team includes four veteran business leaders
specific requirements of government agencies. The
XPression graphics solution, Ultrix platform, Dash-
with expertise in serving U.S. governmental agencies
new Federal Markets team will enhance these
Board control solution, and more.
including all military branches, the Department of
important relationships and ensure every government
“We’ve found NDI incredibly useful and look
Defense, and civilian agencies.
customer has full access to our AV and UC capabilities.”
forward to being on the forefront as things advance,”
In addition, the Federal Markets
The new team is led by Jeremy Button, director of
team will lead relationships with
federal markets. Prior to joining the AV industry,
said Jeff Moore, EVP and CMO, Ross Video. “A cornerstone company in the broadcasting
approved government contractors
Button served as an infantry officer in the U.S. Army.
industry adopting our most advanced technology and
including Boeing, General
Previously, he worked at Crestron Electronics for 12
formats is the best demonstration of how NDI has
Dynamics, NGC, Raytheon,
years in various government sales roles.
grown to become a pervasive industry standard,
Lockheed Martin, and others.
“This Federal Markets team is a proven group that
capable of performing to the benchmark set by leaders
The launch of the team comes as
not only understands U.S. federal government
in the segment,” said Nick Mariette, director of product
AVI Systems expands its office
agencies, but also contract vehicles and how to work
management, NDI.
locations in Washington, D.C., as
effectively with approved federal contractors,” said
Meanwhile, Ross has announced plans to exit the
well as other key geographies.
Button. “With the tremendous growth AVI Systems
LED display business, and is now considering strategic
“Demand from federal
has experienced in recent years, I’m confident we’ll
opportunities for D3LED, which the company acquired
be able to secure and grow the company’s relevance in
in 2021. While the process takes place, Ross will no
the federal sector.”
longer take orders for new displays, but will continue to
agencies in the United States continues to
offer service and support.
Don Mastro
6
SCN // February 2024 // avnetwork.com
NEWS In response to the war, two members of the MSolutions team joined the Israeli Army as reservists; one was responsible for quality assurance, while the other led the company’s shipping operation. “That meant we had to join forces as a company and pitch in together to fill those gaps. It displayed the strength of our company and is representative of what has been happening throughout the country,” Toren noted. A significant portion of Kramer’s production is situated outside of Israel. According to Yron, the company has also taken proactive measures to safeguard against potential disruptions, such as maintaining a robust inventory, to meet customer demand without interruption. “Kramer’s team has remained remarkably resilient and productive,” Yron added. “Despite many employees being enlisted from the onset of the conflict, there has been no noticeable impact on productivity levels. In GETTY IMAGES
fact, Kramer didn’t miss even a single shipment or delivery as a result of the war. One can say that the level of commitment is even higher than before. I salute them for that.”
Israeli Pro AV Companies Persevere in Wartime By Mark J. Pescatore
The war impacted Israeli businesses, of course, but MSolutions has adjusted to meet new demands. “Supplying technology for meeting rooms and learning spaces is a major part of our business. That went away for a while inside Israel,” Toren explained. “However, our government vertical business increased, as we supplied the same technologies for war rooms and similar spaces. The reasons for this were, of course, unfortunate, though this is the reality of the effect that
O
the fighting initially had on our in-country business.” n Oct. 7, Hamas launched a terrorist
Toren also shared that MSolutions has felt the
attack on Israel. With an estimated 1,200
“warmth and support” of the Pro AV community. “It is
dead, it is considered one of the deadliest
a very tightly knit industry and we are proud to be a part
terrorist attacks in modern history. There were other
of it,” he said.
atrocities committed by Hamas during the coordi-
“During these challenging times, we have received
nated attack as well, including kidnapping, torture,
tremendous support and positive reactions from our
and sexual violence. As a result, Israel formerly
customers worldwide,” Yron said. “This trust and
declared war on Hamas, and military action continues in the Gaza Strip, where Hamas has held power
partnership mean a great deal to us. We are deeply From left, Gilad Yron and Eliran Toren
since 2007.
appreciative of our customers’ support, as it not only helps us continue our operations but also reinforces the
For most of the Pro AV community, the Israel-
ment, cables and extenders, cameras, microphones,
Hamas war is a series of headlines and sound bites, a
and more. Eliran Toren, CEO, told SCN the area has had
resilience and unity within the AV community.”
tragic collection of images and voices from a grieving
shelter-in-place periods, but “we have not suffered
(5G820) at ISE 2024 in Barcelona later this month.
nation thousands of miles away fighting for its very
anywhere close to what the southern areas have
Focused on the meeting and learning space, the
survival. But for Pro AV companies based in Israel, the
experienced. It has been truly horrific and impossible
company will debut the new MS-63U1C extender set for
war is now a part of daily life.
to digest.”
USB 3.2 transport and will preview a unique docking
Despite the war, MSolutions will have its own booth
Kramer Electronics, which manufactures an
MSolutions has not lost anyone within its immedi-
extensive catalog of specialty Pro AV products, is
ate circle, but the team has not been untouched by the
“down substantially” at the show this year. “It’s
roughly a 20-minute drive from Tel Aviv. “The longest
war. “There are people we work with in the south that
unfortunate,” he added, “but it is the reality of the
path to cross Israel from west to east will take the
lost family members. I know of one company advisor
situation we are all living through.”
average driver less than two hours, which gives you a
who lost his son,” Toren said. “On a personal level, a
perspective on the size of Israel,” explained Gilad
close friend of mine lost his neighbor. It is very
its 20th ISE show. “Thinking back to our first time at
Yron, CEO. “Due to the country’s small size, the threat
difficult to absorb.”
ISE, it’s amazing to see how we’ve always been pushing
remains relevant daily, affecting all parts of Israel,
station. Toren anticipates Israeli attendance will be
Kramer will also have a booth (3D300) as it attends
“In Israel, the ‘Six Degrees of Kevin Bacon’ game is
boundaries,” Yron said. “We’re super excited about
including areas like where Kramer’s offices are
actually two degrees,” Yron explained, “which makes
unveiling some really cool products at ISE this year.
located.”
the loss very personal for us.” Kramer has also not any
Despite all the challenges we’re facing nationally, our
Headquartered in Ra’anana, MSolutions is in the
team members as a result of the war, for which Yron is
passion for innovation hasn’t slowed down a bit. We’re
center of the country and about 75 miles north of the
profoundly thankful. However, many family members
super proud to be part of this industry and totally
Gaza Strip. The company is known for its test equip-
of Kramer employees are serving in the army.
committed to keeping things moving forward.”
8
SCN // February 2024 // avnetwork.com
NEWS
Nearly 200 screens in 16 countries have been deployed by Red Dot for dnata’s internal communications efforts.
Red Dot Streamlines dnata’s Digital Signage
R
ed Dot Digital Media is revamping internal
our USA operations for several years, we were pleased
streamline the process of configuring the networks
corporate communications for dnata, a large
to discover the company’s expertise in handling
and allowing the players to seamlessly pull content
airport services provider offering ground
international projects,” said Willem Bosch,
updates from the cloud. Red Dot was able to use the Signagelive CMS to
handling, cargo, travel, and flight catering services
marketing and communications manager at dnata.
globally across six continents. The company reached
“The Red Dot team effectively navigated through
build on dnata’s existing templates previously
out to Red Dot to assist in deploying displays through-
regional complexities and supported the seamless
deployed in dozens of U.S.-based dnata locations, an
out its global service network as part of the company’s
management of our global deployment, a task that
efficiency that both saved the client money and
initiative to streamline internal communications.
would have been daunting if we had engaged country-
accelerated the deployment timeline. Two master
specific vendors for each location.”
screen layouts were developed, each including zones
Given the distributed nature of its facilities, dnata required a solution that was easy to deploy in individ-
The global deployment was particularly challenging
for marketing and HR content, a custom content ticker, local date and time, and the company logo.
ual locations, while still being simple to manage across
in that many of the shipping destinations—countries
its vast network of endpoints. The company was
like Brazil, Pakistan, Iraq, and Zanzibar—presented
“It’s easy to underestimate all that’s involved with
particularly interested in creating a way for its
unique customs requirements and other shipping-
a global deployment. Simply shipping hardware where
corporate headquarters to post messages and commu-
related challenges. Red Dot’s global expertise
it needs to be means navigating import taxes, customs
nicate with employees in a reliable and engaging way.
working cross-border and familiarity with country-
regulations, and other shipping requirements, which
The solution: Red Dot paired BrightSign media
specific regulations ensured that shipments arrived
vary greatly from country to country,” explained Darryl
as expected and on time.
Kuder, president of Red Dot Digital Media. “Once the
players with the Signagelive content management system (CMS) to manage the entirety of dnata’s
Once onsite, equipment needed to be deployed and
equipment is onsite, the team needs to work closely
corporate messaging. Nearly 200 screens, equipped
integrated into more than a dozen airport location
with building management, client IT staff, and the
with a BrightSign XD235 media player with Signagelive
networks, each of which presented a unique set of
contractors performing the onsite work. Orchestrating
software, were deployed worldwide in 16 countries.
challenges and different layers of security. Red Dot’s
this on a global scale is no easy feat and requires deep
team of specialists worked closely with local IT staff to
international expertise for successful deployment.”
“After collaborating closely with Red Dot across
Indiana Convention Center Upgrades to Digital Signage display network in 2022. The ICC project wrapped in December and the two facilities are now fully integrated. “The content management system was designed to be able to monitor the convention center screens using the same methods and workflow that SNA Displays laid out for Lucas Oil Stadium, allowing staff to monitor both facilities from a single control room,” explained Pat Green, vice president of systems at SNA Displays. There are now 13 BOLD Interior LEDs with a 2.5mm pixel pitch across the facility, a mix of
“Flag” signs offer branding, wayfinding, and other communication options for events at the ICC.
single-faced screens and dual-faced “flag” signs.
A three-screen dvLED display welcomes visitors at the convention center entrance.
L
Highlights include a large, three-screen setup at the
WJHW provided consulting and design services for
convention center’s entrance, as well as a 22-foot-
the project, while Huston Signs provided installation
long bulkhead display above the hallway connecting
services. The new inventory of displays provides the
the convention center to the stadium.
ICC and its clients with opportunities for branding,
“It’s great to have these displays available for our
wayfinding, live broadcasting, advertising, and other
ocated in downtown Indianapolis, the Indiana
clients,” said Tom Boyle, director of operations for ICC
Convention Center (ICC) has replaced its static
and Lucas Oil Stadium. “They are an excellent way for
“We are constantly looking for ways to help our
signage with dvLEDs from SNA Displays. The
us to greet our guests and provide information about
clients meet their needs and that includes showing
Capital Improvement Board of Managers of Marion
our facilities and downtown partners. They are
them new ways to communicate with guests at their
County (CIB), which operates both the ICC and Lucas
especially attractive to our clients who utilize both the
events and providing branding opportunities for their
Oil Stadium, home to the Indianapolis Colts, selected
convention center and the stadium, because they
partners and sponsors,” said Boyle. “The digital signs
SNA Displays for the convention center upgrades after
allow us to incorporate messaging in the hallway that
allow us a lot of flexibility and creativity while keeping
the manufacturer’s overhaul of the stadium’s video
links the two buildings.”
single-use signs out of landfills.”
10
SCN // February 2024 // avnetwork.com
ways to better communicate with visitors.
NEWS
New AV System Transforms School Lunchroom
A
pre-provisioned to accommodate a future divisible wall, allowing the AV to function independently in each half of the room. The new AV system has garnered positive feedback from faculty, teachers, and students. Recognizing the potential of this multifunctional
ssociated Beth Rivkah Schools in Brooklyn,
subwoofers situated under the stage. A 300-inch
area, Beth Rivkah has opened its doors to the broader
NY, transformed its lunchroom into a
motorized screen with a concealed projector enhances
community, offering the venue for bar mitzvahs,
modern multipurpose venue last fall by
the stage setup, providing a seamless AV experience
weddings, and other occasions.
installing a new AV system. The upgraded facility now caters to various functions within the school,
for various school productions and presentations. The wider side of the room, ideal for banquets and
serving as a flexible space for school assemblies,
large events, boasts four KK102 speakers delivering
guest speakers, performances, graduation
crisp audio for spoken word and background music
ceremonies, and more.
during events. Four custom-finished KU210
The previous sound system, limited to four basic
subwoofers, recessed 20 feet in the ceiling, provide a
point source speakers and a low-cost wireless mic,
powerful, unobtrusive full range audio solution. The
posed challenges during larger school events,
K-array systems were carefully selected to provide
necessitating the frequent rental of an audio system
immersive sound while keeping a minimal visual
at a substantial cost. In 2021, while planning the
footprint. Plus, multiple LED displays and motorized
overall upgrades to the lunchroom, the school turned
screens offer many options for video content.
to New York-based integrator Elyon Systems to
Despite the room being full of hard surfaces, the
design an AV system that would turn the space into a
sound is designed to be directional and contained
truly versatile environment.
within the sitting area. The AV system minimizes the
Two distinct audio zones within the venue offer a
bouncing and echoing of sound while still generously
range of options for events. The stage area features two
feeding the seating area with intelligible sound,
slim K-array KP102 speakers discreetly placed on
creating an environment where reverberation is
either side, with two KP52 for front fill and two KS2P I
almost unnoticeable. Plus, the entire space is
A variety of K-array speakers have helped turn the Associated Beth Rivkah Schools lunchroom into a multipurpose venue.
NEWS
Campbell University Upgrades Audio System at Gore Arena
W
The new MAXHUB video wall at Baseline Social can display multiple sporting events for patrons.
ith a seating capacity just under 3,100, Gore Arena at Campbell University in Buies Creek, NC, is used by the basketball, volleyball, and wrestling teams, and hosts other indoor events. During the
recent process of revamping the auditory experience at the venue, it was crucial to address specific challenges posed by the former sound system. Community loudspeakers from Biamp stood out as a solution. “Once we understood the needs for the Gore Arena, Biamp’s Community loudspeaker product family was the obvious choice,” said Joe Andrulis, EVP of corporate development, Biamp. “Through Biamp Community loudspeakers, athletes, students, and visitors can be assured every announcement and song will come through crystal clear.” The Community loudspeakers helped address one of the most evident issues—inconsistent sound quality across different seating areas, which often left sections of the arena audience straining to discern announcements, commentaries, or even the ambiance of the sporting event. Equally, the old system lacked the desired clarity, muddling certain frequencies and diminishing the overall auditory experience. The project was spearheaded as a collaborative effort between Biamp, Campbell University staff, and the team at Tri-Tronics AV, a North Carolina-based integrator. They determined the most effective system deployment for the stadium included Community IV6 line array configurations, 20 Community amplified loudspeaker controllers, and 14 various Community loudspeakers. The wide range of products allowed the design team to tailor the sound system to the specific needs and contours of Gore Arena. To address the venue’s unique structural requirements, Tri-Tronics turned
New MAXHUB Video Wall Adds to Fun at Baseline Social
V
ideo displays are a large part of the excitement at Baseline Social in Oceanport, NJ, and attractions like simulators for golf, football, soccer, and more enable enthusiasts to play their favorite games in a high-tech
environment. Last June, the venue added a massive 50-foot-long, 12.5-foot-high
to a local metal fabricator to provide custom rigging for the IV6 array, as well as
LED video wall over the rear of its full-service bar—with the ability to handle
load testing. The results were quick and efficient, and Gore Arena’s new system
multiple feeds simultaneously—thanks to the M27 Series from MAXHUB.
is a resounding success. The project was completed in late March, after the last
“This sports bar spans over 17,000 square feet and features three bars, a
winter sports season ended, so the current school year has been the first with
second-floor mezzanine, an outdoor area, and five golf simulators,” explained
the new system.
Daniel Tapolow, CEO and owner of NJ-based Infinite AV Solutions, which deployed
“Before the installation, the depth and clarity of the sound system was a
the video wall. “Being a sports bar, the display is tiled to show as many as 15
challenge,” said Charles Phillips, director of AV, Campbell University. “Now, every
different programs at once. Our client can change how the screen is split up,
word from the PA announcer and the lyrics in the music are clearly heard. The
depending on what programming they want to show at any given time. One of the
installation has significantly improved our in-venue experience at Campbell
display’s main tiling options has three 220-inch diagonal screens across the top
University. There isn't a bad seat in the building.”
and nine 80-inch diagonal screens across the bottom. The ability to see such a wide range of vivid 4K imagery on a single large screen is something that must be experienced to be fully appreciated.” The M27 Series ultra-slim 31mm cabinet takes up minimal space without compromising on visual impact. “The combination of the 1.9mm pixel pitch and the 4K resolution really make this display the centerpiece of the entire sports bar,” Tapolow said. “Running the sources through the video processor gives our client the freedom to get creative and come up with new viewing options that can really wow their patrons and keep the space feeling fresh.” Accompanying the MAXHUB M2719 LED video wall is a NoviStar H9 Enhanced video processor. “The NoviStar H9 enables us to split this massive screen up with a tremendous amount of freedom to facilitate a wide range of viewing options,” Tapolow explained. “With this installation, you can have one massive screen or 15 separate programs. The flexibility is amazing.” Tapolow said the new display is the talk of the town. “The final product is awe inspiring to say the least,” he added. “To appreciate the impact this display
A new audio system featuring Biamp loudspeakers is delivering consistent sound quality across Gore Arena.
12
SCN // February 2024 // avnetwork.com
has, just look at the patrons’ faces when they walk into the bar and see it. The customers’ reaction really is amazing to see.”
Robert Downey Jr. talks human security and online crime at CES 2024.
By Wayne Cavadi
C
by data and technology in real time. Amazon Web Services was shown powering data and analytics for the likes of the NFL and other major FUTURE
CES 2024: How Tony Stark Can Save Pro AV
NEWS
companies, but now it is entering the car business. Several car companies are using the benefits of the AWS cloud, like Bosch, whose technology will be able
biggest buzzwords from a week on the show floor. Artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, sustainability,
to let a car recognize when a driver is tired.
electrification, hydrogen power, and mobility
Iron-Clad Online Security
dominated conversations, and there was hardly a
Robert Downey Jr. showed up with his partners,
press conference held without at least two of those
Jeffrey Katzenberg and Hari Ravichandran, to talk
buzzwords mentioned.
about Aura. From online hackers to even
AI and Amazon Are Everywhere There wasn’t much of the floor space that wasn’t
cyberbullying, Aura is an online safety service that address the rising rate of online crime. Downey Jr., who had little problem owning
ES 2024 is in the books. While the show is
talking about AI. While we’ve discussed AI in Pro AV
Marvel's Tony Stark persona he has become known
still largely about the consumer—no one in
products like videoconferencing cameras for some
for, is not simply a spokesperson for the platform, but
the Pro AV world is installing the Spider-
time, the technology is being used in everything.
is deeply involved with the creation of it, as his family
Verse EV I saw on display—you may be surprised
Take streaming, for example. Disney and Pfizer
has been a victim of online crime. In fact, he dropped
how much the Las Vegas-based show has evolved
executives both spoke on how AI will play a large
some mind-boggling numbers, claiming one in four
toward enterprise and commercial AV.
role in simplifying streaming—and not just for
of the attendees at his panel would be a victim to
viewers. As Emmanuel Marquez, Pfizer’s global
online crime. “You can barely keep up with the
Watch” panel, 30-40% of exhibitors showcase
As mentioned during the “CES 2024 Trends to
head of media, growth, and performance marketing
exponential growth of it,” he said.
enterprise solutions. But what do enterprise-level
noted, companies can optimize, test, and learn
companies have to gain from a consumer electronics
what is working. Automation and AI play a key role
three spoke of their shared passion to not only
show?
and can bring scale in in future terms of innovation
educate about online crime, but also use—you
and personalization. Businesses are now informed
guessed it—AI as a valuable tool to protect from it.
It’s simple, really, when you consider some of the
With a focus on family security and finance, the
avnetwork.com // February 2024 // SCN
13
NEWS
North Syracuse Central School District Modernizes Emergency Communications
N
ew York’s North Syracuse Central School
maintenance and operations, plus security, health and
District (NSCSD) recently renovated
safety, and the capital work for the district.
some of its aging buildings with a focus
Because the district used a Cisco phone system,
on infrastructure elements and campus safety. To
Erwin and his team wanted a platform that integrated
modernize its intercom, audio announcements, and
with these devices. As they researched and discussed
emergency communications systems, the district
options, their partners at Day Automation, a building
turned to AtlasIED IPX technology.
automation and security solution provider, introduced
Located in the central part of the state, the K-12
Dual-sided displays are installed over high-traffic areas.
them to AtlasIED. Its IPX Series, which features a range
public school district serves the communities of North
of communication endpoints that interconnect and
Syracuse, Clay, Cicero, Bridgeport, and Mattydale. With
integrate multiple functions into single products, met
11 elementary, middle, and high schools, the district
all the criteria for the district.
covers almost 90 square miles and has close to 7,800
Karl W. Saile Bear Road Elementary became the
loudspeaker and an omnidirectional microphone to
students and approximately 700 teachers. The district
district’s first school to install a new audio and commu-
allow two-way communication and monitoring from
began renovating in phases, prioritizing schools based
nications system. Originally built in 1958, Bear Road
the speaker location to any PC or phone handset.
on the state of the school buildings and the level of
Elementary is one of the district’s oldest buildings.
The IPX Series also helped NSCSD incorporate
urgency of repairs.
During the Bear Road project, the school renovated half
campus safety capabilities with the help of Singlewire’s
the building at a time to avoid a full closure, and
InformaCast mass notification software. During an
the campus audio and communications systems: to
completely modernized the interior and infrastructure
emergency, designated school personnel can initiate
improve the audio quality and find a plan to increase
to accommodate staff and student needs.
the software from a mobile device wherever they are, on
The district had two primary goals when upgrading
the speed at which a school could react and contact first
Day Automation identified locations for IPX
or off campus. The software then instantaneously alerts
responders during an emergency. It wanted to achieve
endpoints throughout the school and ran Ethernet cable
law enforcement, sends text messages to faculty,
these goals without having to install a system that was
to each site in preparation to connect the endpoints. The
student, and parent mobile devices, and activates
too complicated for staff and personnel.
IPX endpoints are PoE+-enabled, receiving power and
attention-grabbing audio communication, flashing
network signals through the same IT network the school
visual alerts, and LED text messages on the installed IPX
similar audio communications technologies that had
Before renovations, the schools in the district used
uses to deliver Internet access. The IPX platform helped
devices throughout campus.
been in use for 10-20 years, including the public
simplify the installation process for integrators by
address (PA) system, clocks, and blue light systems for
reducing the number of cable types needed.
emergencies. But the systems were siloed and did not
Another NSCSD school, Smith Road Elementary,
Also using InformaCast, the IP-8SM ceiling speakers can be configured to allow first responders to communicate with people near the loudspeaker or
integrate. During routine use, such as all-school
began its retrofit project in 2022 to update various
listen in that area. When connected to InformaCast, the
announcements at the beginning of school days, the
technologies, including its audio and communications
loudspeakers become a critical two-way, hands-free
system functioned as needed—but during drills, the
technology systems. Working around class schedules to
communications tool for law enforcement or school
number of systems in operation caused challenges.
avoid disrupting students, the school expanded and
personnel to deliver directions, provide or receive
“With the old system, when we conducted a
updated its campus IT network and created plans to
real-time updates near the speaker location, or listen to
locate IPX endpoints.
activities within a space.
lockdown drill, school staff needed to activate the different systems manually, which created steps and
Once the construction teams pulled Ethernet
more possibilities for human error,” explained Matt
cabling to predetermined locations in both schools, the
technology, the district has implemented new routine
Erwin, director of facilities, NSCSD. Erwin manages
contractor teams began installing IPX endpoints,
and emergency safety procedures in the schools and is
AtlasIED IP-SDMF units are being used for intercom, audio announcements, and emergency communications systems in two NSCSD schools.
including the dual-sided
training staff to help them become more familiar with
IP-DDS LCD endpoint display
operating the equipment. While the expectation is that
mounted from side walls and
much of the system’s use will be for routine daily
hung over high-traffic areas
announcements, InformaCast helps automate many of
like hallways. They also
the formerly manual steps in the older system’s
added IP-SDMF indoor
procedures, which can reduce the chance of human
wall-mount IP endpoints
error during a real incident.
(which include a speaker,
14
SCN // February 2024 // avnetwork.com
Because of the upgraded capabilities offered by the
From the district’s experience at Bear Road
LCD display, microphone,
Elementary and Smith Road Elementary, NSCSD plans
and LED flasher) in class-
to install IPX and InformaCast throughout the rest of
rooms, cafeterias, gymnasi-
the district school buildings. “Gone are the days when
ums, the main office, and all
we had to find a panic button or go to a specific
rooms to ensure comprehen-
location to access the PA system,” said Erwin. “The
sive building coverage. The
new AtlasIED systems give us much more functional-
IP-SDMF. On the ceilings, the
ity at every point within the building. Based on the
district installed the IP-8SM
successful installation at Bear Road and Smith Road,
IP speakers in multiple
we now look at mass notification across the entire
locations, which offer a
district differently.”
NEWS
Solid Close to Solid (but Complex) Year
average level across all 12
in revenue for different levels. For end users and
months and our year-end
integrators, the numbers here in the index are
net question (which
accurate (or as accurate as possible, at least). For
compares the past two
manufacturers, reality is likely less positive than the
years rather than the past
AVI-S. The cause is delayed projects.
two months). We prefer
A slice of 2023 end user spending/integrator
the latter since it is a net
revenue was payment for projects that were waiting
measurement, while the
on final parts for completion. Manufacturers already
averaging approach can
had their revenue from when the products were
miss scale. Still, we report
purchased, but much of the money didn’t pass from
both here. And both tell a
end user to integrator until the project installation
story of a solid year that
was finalized after the last equipment arrived.
By Peter Hansen
was not as good as 2022. For the monthly average, the index was at 58.8.
ment Index (AVI-E) stayed essentially flat, moving
T
This is the lowest year other than 2020, though it is not
from 58.6 in November to 57.8 in December. This is in
he Pro AV Sales Index (AVI-S) lifted 3.5
too far out of line from past non-pandemic years. For
line with its yearlong average of 58.2. Aside from 2020
points to close out 2023 with a score of
our preferred year-on-year net, the index was 67.1.
(which saw contraction), the more volatile AVI-S has
60.4. This is roughly the same as the 61.2 of
This is meaningfully lower than the 2022 number of
outperformed the AVI-E by an average of 2.1 per year.
72.5 and in line with the 2021 number of 67.9.
That makes the 0.54 gap observed in 2023 a positive
December 2022. 2023 was a year of slower growth than 2022, so it’s nice to see an uptick at the end of
Together, this data tells a story of a positive but
Though the AVI-S accelerated, the AV Employ-
for the AVI-E.
the year. While 2024 will pose plenty of challenges,
unspectacular year for Pro AV. When you add the
we expect similar performance to 2023 in terms of
context of how we entered the year and the level of
monthly survey of the AVIXA Insights Community, a
the AVI-S.
macroeconomic/recession fear, this solid outcome is
research community of industry members that tracks
something to be celebrated.
business trends in commercial AV. For more informa-
For supply, things are overall better. For hiring, the difficulty level is probably similar, but the impact is smaller because fewer businesses are hiring. There are two ways to review 2023 in the AV index:
Now for a caveat: Not all levels of the Pro AV
The Pro AV Business Index report is derived from a
tion about joining the AVIXA Insights Community,
industry experienced the same growth. This year, the
visit www.avixa.org/AVIP.
legacy of 2022 supply chain issues created separation
Peter Hansen is an economist at AVIXA.
avnetwork.com // February 2024 // SCN
15
PEOPLE EXECUTIVE Q&A
The Big Picture RoomReady CEO McArdle Focuses on Large-Scale Deployments
Aaron McArdle Position: Founder and CEO Company: RoomReady
By Mark J. Pescatore
SCN: What are the key considerations for effective hybrid meeting rooms? AMcA: Meeting equity. That’s a new term in our
for the room solution. It’s our job to help identify the
SCN: What prompted you to establish RoomReady,
industry, but it means people on the far end have an
best hardware solutions to fully utilize the platform
and when did you open your doors?
experience as similar as possible to those in the
features the end user values.
Aaron McArdle: I started a low-voltage/
room. Do all meeting participants have access to the
communications division for an electrical contractor
same information, see the same information, and
SCN: What prompted RoomReady to create its own
(Zeller Electric) in 2002. I bought them out and spun
have the ability to participate in the meeting
hardware?
off as a separate company in 2007 (Zeller Digital
equally?
AMcA: The first piece of hardware we created was
Innovations). The Zeller brothers were getting close
Consistency. Meeting rooms need to be the same
our RoomReady Set mount. Cisco challenged us to
to retirement planning, and the investments I wanted
… everywhere. Creating a common user experience
come up with a pricing model that allowed us to
them to make in the business were not part of their
was the trick a few years ago, but that’s all managed
install a meeting room anywhere in the U.S. at a
plan. I wanted to aggressively grow the business
by the platform now. Consistency now refers to the
price consistent with a local integrator, without
through investment in different technologies,
way the systems are designed, configured, and
needing a site visit and with minimal downtime in
leveraging Ethernet and taking advantage of network
assembled. The experience is produced through the
the room. This was just when the industry started to
topologies in new low-voltage systems applications.
tight relationship and partnership of the platform
move away from projectors and screens and into
and the hardware manufacturer, and that is depend-
plasma displays. We identified that by mounting the
installed physical security systems, fiber optic,
ent upon each system being installed exactly the way
hardware behind the display neatly, in a consistent
horizontal cable, outside plant, and AV systems.
they intended.
footprint and concealed from view, we could
Zdi was a traditional low-voltage contractor. We
RoomReady was an eventual division focused on
Dependability. Systems need to work every time.
installing meeting room technology for Cisco
They are a business tool. If we can’t include the
partners nationwide. RoomReady quickly started to
remote participants, we cancel the meeting. Simple
outpace the other divisions of the company to the
as that.
point that we sunset the other divisions—and the Zdi
eliminate most of the variables that caused added cost and complexity. We also ventured into hardware and software development for a few years. The solutions we’ve created are still way ahead of the industry, but we
SCN: During the consulting phase, what is
realized we didn’t have a way to bring it to market in
something that most clients get wrong or don’t
a meaningful way and allow us to capitalize on our
SCN: What verticals are driving the most business
understand about meeting room technology?
investment. We retired that program right after
for RoomReady?
AMcA: My brother once said, “The best way to screw
COVID when we saw the platforms were going to
AMcA: We have the luxury of working for some of the
up a project is to try to use technology to overcome a
align directly with the hardware manufactures, and
largest companies in the world. Our demographic of
bad design.” We believe systems should be as simple
integrator innovation would be marginalized. We
client is more aligned to company size than vertical
as they can be, but not simpler. Understanding the
still manufacture and sell the RoomReady Set, but
market. Our value proposition is the most meaningful
nuance that some layers of complexity add
many of the other products and software solutions
for companies with more than 500 meeting spaces,
consistency or dependability, while others add
have been shelved.
offices mostly in the U.S., with a need to standardize
functional liability or risk. Also realizing the line
meeting space technology across the organization.
between those ideas is consistently changing.
SCN: What’s next for meeting room design and
We do a lot of work with very large banks, law firms,
Technology changes—and a layer of complexity that
technology?
manufacturers, and insurance companies.
was needed on the last project to ensure consistency
AMcA: AI. I think we’ll see a lot of manufacturers
RoomReady has 11 patents on tools and processes to
in the user experience may not be needed on the next.
moving to manufacturing all the equipment need
make meeting room easy to buy, deploy, and use.
Now, it’s wasted money and effort at best and a layer
to deliver a room solution. The software (AI) is going
of liability at the worst.
to be unbelievably powerful—and to fully take
brand—and adopted RoomReady as our sole focus.
SCN: How important is AI to modern meeting
advantage of its capabilities, all the components in
rooms?
SCN: RoomReady supports a variety of meeting
the system will need to communicate seamlessly.
AMcA: AI is going to change the way we view a
platforms. Do clients have a rhyme or reason for
Imagine you have a soft talker at one end of the table
meeting space, meetings, communication, and
choosing the “right” platform?
and a loud talker at the other. AI will notice and
frankly business in general. AI will do everything from
AMcA: That decision is usually made at a different
adjust the gain on the mics. Or if you have a meeting
configure the room, monitor the room, self-service
time and by different teams. For most of our
participant that is seated in a place that was
the systems in the room to take notes meeting
customers, the platform decision is generally decided
unintended. The mics could reconfigure the beam to
participants, provide a summary of the meeting in .
by the team that makes desktop software decisions
accommodate someone sitting on a windowsill. AI
ppt form, and create automatic to-dos and reminders.
and is dictated to the facility or IT teams responsible
will also be able to know which meeting participants are paying attention and who isn’t. In new cars with advanced technology, your car can tell when your eyes are on the road right now and alert you when you’re dozing off. It won’t be long until we start to get similar meeting statistics.
16
SCN // February 2024 // avnetwork.com
PEOPLE EXECUTIVE Q&A
Sign of the Times Visix COO Hicks Shares Secrets of Better Digital Signage Deployments, Advances in Room Scheduling Systems
Trey Hicks Position: COO/CSO Company: Visix Overtime: I enjoy
By Mark J. Pescatore
schedules from Office365, they pick the Office365
trail running, ultra-
widget and pull it right into a digital signage layout.
marathons, and
Another example is the manufacturing vertical,
beekeeping.
SCN: How long have you been with this company,
where businesses want to display production data. If
and what are your responsibilities?
the data’s in Excel, the user grabs the Excel widget; if
Trey Hicks: I’ll celebrate 30 years with Visix in
it’s in JSON, the user grabs the JSON widget. We strive
October. I joined Visix out of college and have taken
to make our widgets straightforward, especially when
on roles of increasing responsibility over time. I have
it comes to data integration and interactivity.
four primary areas of responsibility as chief operating officer, including business development, supply
SCN: When it comes to digital signage design, I’m
chain, technology innovation, and partnerships. As
sure you’ve seen the good, the bad, and the ugly.
chief sales officer, I manage our sales organization.
What are some best practices for content creators? TH: Digital resources have to be clean and concise, but
SCN: What are your most popular vertical markets
also grab attention at a glance. We have six essentials
for digital signage solutions?
to keep in mind whether updating old PowerPoints,
TH: Corporate, education, manufacturing,
adapting print designs, or creating new content from
government (local and state), and healthcare. We
scratch. The content creator needs to design for
exist to help large organizations communicate better
screens (don’t squash or stretch images), eye strain
and keep people informed and up to date. Visix is
(use good contrast, less text, and larger fonts), brevity
especially strong on corporate and higher education
(favor clean designs with minimal clutter), impact
campuses. Our recent entry into the office and desk
(design with one focal point in mind), context (design
hoteling market magnifies our strengths for these
a theme, character or image that will grab and hold
verticals, thanks in part to new wireless battery-
attention), and interaction (use touchscreens, short
SCN: Of course, not everyone is ready for a work
powered signs that can be easily positioned outside
URLs or QR codes).
environment without physical signs. What
any room or at any desk.
Choros
features are important for digital meeting room SCN: How can an integrator determine the best
signs?
SCN: How important are content templates for your
placement of digital signage screens across a school
TH: Easy integration with the client’s scheduling
clients, and can you provide custom designs?
or business campus?
system is essential. And people should be able to tell
TH: Content templates pave the way for a quality
TH: We trust our integration partners, as they know
if the room is booked or open from down the hall, so
user experience. The ability to scan and look at a
the client’s facilities and have established trusted
LED lights around the edges are critical. The user
wide range of template choices helps inspire the way
relationships, but three rules immediately come to
interface also must be simple enough so that anyone
that organizations communicate. Once selected, the
mind: Place signs in high traffic areas, within large
in the organization can easily interact with the
template makes the creation process more time
open spaces, and in common areas where people
technology. PoE support is helpful because it
efficient. The user simply selects the text, pictures,
gather. If we look at a university campus, that
simplifies the cabling, with just one connection to
and backgrounds, and adds them to the template.
means hanging displays in the student union
support power and networking. Also, you need an
The user always creates a visual that looks good
building or in building with atriums and multi-floor
attractive glass mounting kit so that the sign looks
because that template provides the framework for a
openings. In the corporate vertical, digital signage
good from the inside and out when assigned to a
beautiful result. We also offer a desktop design tool
always proves effective within lobbies and
meeting space enclosed by glass.
for more detailed creative control for users. Of
corporate cafeterias. SCN: What new initiatives are we likely to see from
course, we can also design traditional and interactive content for them.
SCN: Last year, Visix introduced Choros. What
your company?
makes this scheduling system unique?
TH: We’ll continue to enhance our AxisTV Signage
SCN: How do your “widgets” enhance digital
TH: Visix established an entirely new product category
Suite software with new features and workflows
signage messaging, and are they similar to what you
for space booking technology with the introduction of
that improve the client experience. We’ll also
might find on a smartphone?
Choros, an AR space booking platform with a BYOD
expand the functionality of Choros and increase its
TH: Absolutely. Just like we select a widget to check
benefit. Choros is natively supported by iOS and
potential for space booking applications with
the weather or our bank accounts with a smartphone,
Android on smartphones to create this unique and
wireless availability lights. This is an optional piece
users do the same with our AxisTV Signage Suite
immediate experience where you can interact with
of hardware with green and red LED indicators to
digital signage software. If they want to show meeting
the platform without downloading an app. The user
show space availability at a glance. There will be
just scans a QR code to see if a space is available or not,
more details closer to release, but it represents the
and can book that space on the spot. And it’s not just
next innovation for Choros and we’re excited about
for meeting rooms—it can be a desk, a personal
the potential of this offering for Visix moving
locker, or a parking space.
forward.
18
SCN // February 2024 // avnetwork.com
PEOPLE NEWSMAKERS BLAZE AUDIO has
Doug Laue
AVPRO GLOBAL appointed
PRYSM SYSTEMS has
appointed DIRECTLINK
DOUGLAS (DOUG) LAUE as
appointed TOD HARDIN as
MARKETING as its new
CFO. Laue will report to CEO
director of marketing
Matt Murray and oversee
operations. In this role, Hardin
AVPro’s financial planning and
will strengthen, align, and
Mountain and Southwest regions, including
analysis, accounting, M&A
broaden the company’s global
Eastern Montana, Wyoming, Southeast Idaho,
marketing and sales
Utah, Colorado, Arizona, New Mexico, and the
activity, tax, ERP systems,
Tod Hardin
Rep Report
sales representation firm throughout the U.S.
corporate development, and enterprise risk
operations. With nearly 30 years of Pro AV
metropolitan El Paso, TX, area. The addition of
management functions. Laue brings substantial
experience, Hardin previously served as the
DirectLink Marketing is an important step in
financial expertise from multinational organizations
company’s global events marketing director for
making Blaze Audio products readily accessible
including AkzoNobel and Davidoff of Geneva.
more than six years. During his previous time at
throughout the territory.
Prysm Systems, he was instrumental in In December, GRASS VALLEY
implementing a multichannel plan to launch the
To provide its resellers and integrators an
appointed MICHAEL PRINN as
company’s laser phosphor displays.
opportunity to differentiate with a competitive
its new CFO. Prinn brings a
range of commercial digital signage displays, RISE recently promoted
EXERTIS ALMO has entered an exclusive U.S.
expertise garnered from his
CATHERINE CYWINSKA to
distribution partnership with HISENSE. As part
previous roles as CFO for other
head of marketing. The new
of the agreement, the full line of Hisense’s
technology companies,
marketing role will advance
digital signage displays, touchscreens, and
Rise’s mission of a diverse
dvLED all-in-one 136 and 163-inch models are
and gender-balanced
now available only through Exertis Almo.
workforce through a growing
Additionally, Hisense has joined the Spring
wealth of experience and
Michael Prinn
including Poplar Homes and SeaChange International. His extensive background in steering financial strategies, coupled with his expertise in
Catherine Cywinska
driving operational effectiveness, aligns with Grass
portfolio of global initiatives. She will be
2024 Exertis Almo E4 Experience, coming to
Valley’s vision for future growth and success.
responsible for managing the Rise brand, shaping
Washington, DC, in March and Chicago in April.
its message through targeted outreach, and
Ryan Wilhelm
Kayla Fontanilla
Jason Tennstedt
INFILED has hired RYAN
building relationships with key industry
With more than 60 combined years of experience
WILHELM as regional sales
stakeholders. Most recently, she held the role of
providing assistive listening system, LISTEN
director–Southeast to the North
growth marketing manager at Wildmoka and
TECHNOLOGIES and AMPETRONIC, providers of
American fixed install team. The
Backlight, where she built a track record of driving
audio induction loop systems, have partnered to
company also added to the
strategic marketing initiatives for business
create a single source for innovative audio
operations side of the business,
development.
solutions. Together, they will provide a broad
with KAYLA FONTANILLA as
range of solutions globally to help people hear
sales and marketing coordinator
MARCO KRAAK has joined
clearly in challenging listening environments.
and JASON TENNSTEDT as a
VIZRT as its general manager,
Listen Technologies is now the exclusive
senior field application
Global Channel. In his role,
representative for Ampetronic systems in North
engineer. Wilhelm served as a
Kraak will drive growth for the
America, and Ampetronic will represent Listen
driving force behind the
channel business, enabling
Technologies solutions in the United Kingdom.
expansion of new business and
partners to sell the full Vizrt SYNTHAX has officially hired RIGHT TRACK
has established himself as a key
Marco Kraak
player in the industry.
customer segments. Kraak comes with more than
MARKETING to represent the following Pro
Tennstedt has been an AV
25 years of executive experience in partner
Audio brands in the Mid-Atlantic territory: RME,
design engineer for more than
go-to-market strategy and growing both indirect
Ferrofish, Appsys, myMix, Digigram, and Alva.
19 years with experience in
and direct sales. He held multiple international
With more than 30 years in the industry, Right
project coordination, needs
senior positions within Cisco developing its
Track Marketing is a manufacturers’ represent-
analyses, budgeting, and lead
channel business, and recently worked with SUSE,
ative firm offering service to resellers in Eastern
rollout execution. Fontanilla is
where he led the channel remit for APAC, EMEA,
Pennsylvania, Southern New Jersey, Delaware,
and China.
Maryland, Virginia, and Washington, DC.
new to the Pro AV industry, but has experience in
portfolio and unlock new
managing social media channels and other digital marketing efforts.
WYRESTORM appointed
WILLIAMS AV has inked a distribution partner-
industry veteran HAL TRUAX
ship with U.K.-based AUDIOLOGIC covering
LAWO has expanded its
as the president of its
the U.K. and Ireland—and announced that
executive management board
Commercial Division. In this
Digi-Loop hearing loop products will once again
with CLAUS GÄRTNER joining
key leadership role, Truax will
be available in the U.K. and North American
as the new CFO. Gärtner’s
be responsible for overseeing
markets starting in 2024. The change in
all aspects of the division’s
distributors and reintroduction of Digi-Loop
international career has seen
Hal Truax
him excel at Rheinmetall,
operations, including product development, sales,
into key markets is part of Williams AV’s growth
Smiths-Heimann, and
and customer engagement. His strategic focus will
strategy, which includes taking a more direct,
Heidelberg Engineering Group, where he held key
be on expanding WyreStorm’s global footprint,
in-market sales and support approach and
executive positions and contributed significantly to
cultivating key partnerships, and driving the
accelerating the development of new and
the growth and success of each company.
development of groundbreaking AV technologies.
existing product offerings.
Claus Gärtner
20
SCN // February 2024 // avnetwork.com
DN-300
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PEOPLE ON YOUR BUSINESS
Technology Isn’t Enough Why Pro AV Businesses Need to Be More Profit Driven By Steve Greenblatt
L
is the special sauce that makes AV a niche industry;
most important is the result it delivers for its clients.
however, organizations can’t rely on technical
It is not the level of expertise or advanced degree of
skills alone.
the technological solution that is most important, but
ike others in the technology space, the Pro AV
While demonstrating technical competency and
rather the value that the client puts on the outcome
industry tends to put a weighted emphasis on
the ability to apply specialized skills is critical to many
that they receive. Typically, this value is contrived
the importance of the technical strengths of
technical roles and individual career paths, for most
from saving time, creating efficiency, or producing
a team or individual, even though business know-
organizations it comes down to pairing technical
greater results that all lead to increased profitability.
how is what leads to the success of most companies.
knowledge with business know-how that affords
Having groundbreaking products, the brightest
them the ability to serve their clients, employ their
tions, clients will pay for results that offer conveni-
engineering minds, or the most state-of-the-art
teams, and continue to exist. Technical skills and
ence, cost savings, and/or increased income. In a B2B
solutions does not necessarily equate to the strongest
capabilities that are unable to be translated into
relationship, most clients are also focused on running
companies. What is most critical is how organizations
financial gain through a profitable product or service
a profitable business. Therefore, products or services
combine these assets with business expertise to cre-
have minimal value to employers.
that help them meet their profitability goals will be
ate profitable firms that help their clients succeed. All organizations, technological or otherwise,
In the end, those with lesser technical skills who can generate income and profitability are more
Similar to service provider and supplier organiza-
more readily embraced and justified. When it comes down to it, generating income is
need to follow the same basic business principles at
valuable than those with superior technical skills who
the driving force behind all organizations—and the
their core that all point to being profitable. While
struggle to convert them into true benefit for an
way businesses can afford to pay their team members
some may associate profitability with exclusively
organization.
and provide future financial reward. For a business to
benefiting the owner, investors, or leadership, when a
Technologists have a tendency to focus on the
operate optimally, the compensation they provide
business is profitable it can provide significant value
expertise that goes into solving an engineering
must be a function of the income they derive from the
to all the members of the business, its clients, the
challenge and providing a superior solution that
contributions each team member, the value clients
industry, and those whom the business touches.
validates their expertise or would outshine a lesser
receive and are willing to pay for, and the profitability
rival. As a result, there is a lot of pride taken by
of their organization.
Profitability allows businesses to offer employment, provide longevity and security to its
engineers, technicians, and programmers in achieving
For a business cycle to be effective and sustain-
team members, reinvest in the company to build and
high technical performance marks with their products
able, organizations must not only receive income but
strengthen infrastructure, pursue research and
or systems.
also derive profit. Regardless of technical prowess or
development of new ideas, grant employee
While traits are crucial and widely respected by
potential, a business without profit is like a person
opportunities for training and growth, reward those
those who can appreciate them, what is most impor-
without oxygen: It can only sustain itself and support
who have contributed, and allocate time and
tant is the value these provide to clients and, as a result,
others for so long.
resources to better the industry through volunteering,
how they result in sales and lead to the success and
Steve Greenblatt, CTS, is the founder of Control
instructing, and mentoring to help others succeed.
financial gain of their organization. Although it is easy
Concepts, which provides specialized software and
It is no surprise that the Pro AV industry puts a
for any Pro AV company to focus on the differentiating
services for the Pro AV industry. Contact him at
factors of the technology they provide, what is truly
steveg@controlconcepts.net.
hefty weight on the value of technical skills. This
22
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BUSINESS EV CHARGERS
Take Charge EV Charger Station Market Can Spark Opportunities for Pro AV Integrators By Jennifer Guhl
L
ast October, Precedence Research reported the global electric vehicle (EV) charger market was valued at $9 billion in 2022, and expects
it to grow to more than $105 billion by 2032. With numbers like that, getting into the market now could create significant returns for integrators in the near future and beyond. “For integrators willing to dive in and learn the ins and outs of deploying chargers and charging networks, the trend presents a host of new revenue opportunities just waiting to be taken advantage of,” said Catherine Lee, product marketing specialist at Broadsign. Governments worldwide are promoting the adoption of electric vehicles through various incentives, subsidies, and regulatory measures, including the development of a more robust charging infrastructure. “Integrators who align their services with a government-backed program can benefit from the increased demand and potential financial incentives,” said Jay Park, senior manager of business innovation with LG. As consumers continue to transition to electric vehicles and federal funding increases support, it’s a great market space for integrators—and you may even have current clients looking for these services. “This surge in demand for EVs directly translates to an increased need for EV charging infrastructure,” Park added. “Integrators can tap into this growing market to provide essential services and solutions.”
Power Levels EV charging infrastructure is more comprehensive than just public charging stations, and there is a growing need for solutions in various commercial, The EV charger market is expected to grow significantly in the next decade, offering new revenue opportunities for integrators.
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industrial, and residential sectors. These opportunities allow integrators to diversify their offerings, providing increased value to clients by staying on top
EV CHARGERS BUSINESS
of evolving EV charging technology, including faster
vehicles 3-30 miles per minute. These chargers are
meter, while the other integrates display technol-
charging speeds, wireless charging, and smart
in demand by convenience stores and gas stations
ogy for advertising and payment. That’s where an
charging solutions. “As more and more EVs are on the
looking for fast charging options that still allows
AV integrator’s digital signage expertise comes in
road, real estate owners will likely want to invest in
consumers time to purchase items in their stores.
handy. EV charger installations have some similari-
charging infrastructure at their locations, and they’ll need industry-savvy partners to facilitate these
There are two types of chargers often seen on the market. One is more basic, resembling a parking
ties to digital menu boards and kiosks, but can be more complicated with power and network
projects,” said Lee. Power is a prime consideration when learning the ins and outs of the EV charging business, and you will often hear EV chargers referred to by level. Level 1 is the basic 120-volt charger, which is available in many consumer home chargers and only charges about 2-5 miles per hour. Level 2 increases to 240 volts to deliver 10-65 miles per hour. You’ll find them in kiosk solutions at local grocery stores, libraries, and municipalities. Level 3 (also known as DC fast chargers) are appearing more frequently in the market, but require increased power to charge
LG will launch its U.S. EV charger business this year.
LG Preps for EV Charger Market Entry As LG Business Solutions prepares to unveil its electric vehicle charger business in the United States this year, its EVW011SK-SN EV charger has been certified to UL 2594, the UL Standard for Electric Vehicle Supply Equipment, and to the EVSE Program Requirements for ENERGY STAR, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s energy and performance standard. The EVW011SK-SN is one of the initial models in LG’s charger lineup, some of which offer owners the ability to generate secondary revenue streams through integrated screens. The 11kW Level 2 charger is also being evaluated for compliance with California’s revenue metering standards that help assure accurate billing and measurement of power delivery. When it is launched in the United States, the 240V AC charger will offer owners variable power output from 3.8kW up to 11.5kW using an SAE J1772-type connector. Owners will be able to set up charging services through their choice of network providers, language settings, speaker volume, maximum current, and load management. Audio guides will be available in English, Spanish, and French.
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BUSINESS EV CHARGERS
From left, Jay Park, Andrew Catellier, Catherine Lee, Chuck Lewis, Ted Korte
Display Considerations
forget is that an outdoor digital display provides a lot
As outdoor appliances, EV chargers must be durable
of light,” explained Andrew Catellier, senior business
an ideal starting point for the installation, assess-
and include weather-resistant displays that can
development manager with Samsung. “Therefore, it
ing the client’s preferred location when considering
withstand rain, snow, extreme temperatures, UV
provides safety and security around it.”
various factors. Integrators must also consider
radiation, and other weather conditions. Sunlight
proximity to the power source, accessibility, and
readability is also crucial; in the daytime, low-bright-
along their regular routes, making shopping centers,
compliance with local regulations when establish-
ness displays with poor readability could discourage
gas stations, and restaurants prime locations for
ing the ideal charger location.
usage, which won’t help impressions for advertisers.
incorporating units. High-traffic areas, including
Durability and longevity are also critical. “If the
urban centers, airports, and public parking lots can
needs. “Permits and regulatory requirements
screens fail within a year or two years, that’s an
maximize charging infrastructure utilization and
should be researched thoroughly as they differ from
issue,” said Park.
benefit from attracting EV users to their locations
capabilities. With these complicating factors, a site survey is
The integrator is also responsible for permitting
region to region,” said Lee.
EV chargers with integrated displays can even add a bump in security. “One of the key things that people
Users of EV chargers prefer charging stations
through strategic charging placement. USSI Global recommends placing EV chargers in a prime location at a garage or strip mall entrance. “That’s kind of the experience people are looking for, rather than having range anxiety driving around looking for the EV charging,” said Ted Korte, vice president of programs and innovation lab at USSI Global. Consumers could also see more corporate entities installing EV chargers in workplace parking lots for convenient charging while their employees work, minimizing the impact on their daily schedules. “Similarly, residential and public charging stations near shopping or recreational area facilities allow people to charge their vehicles while engaging in other activities,” Park added.
Content, Content, Content When surveying the best location, you’ll want to find a spot that is not only easy for cars to charge but can also be seen from the street, increasing the ROI for potential advertisers. “This is one of the reasons why the most popular EV we have is the back-to-back, where there’s a display on two sides,” said Chuck Lewis, executive vice president with Palmer Digital Group. “One display is facing out in the street, where EV charging stations with integrated digital signage need high-brightness displays.
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those passing by can take a look, and the other display is facing the person who’s charging their car.” Many EV charging networks are supported by
EV CHARGERS BUSINESS
advertising revenue, and chargers can help prioritize
the ideal time to make it as contextual and relevant as
endless, but integrators must find how they fit in
advertising for the user and those passing by the unit.
possible. “Certain things can happen as you pull up,”
while the market is still young. “I think the right
However, it’s important to vary the content. News,
Catellier offered. “Maybe it already knows who you
thing to do is work with the customers, the EV car
weather, and more can improve user engagement.
are, or once you plug your car in, it will immediately
charging industry, and create your niche,” said
start charging your account.”
Catellier. “We suggest it’s time for those interested to
USSI Global recommended providing relevant, contextual content to engage people more with the
Future innovations with EV chargers can seem
begin the ride or risk being left in the dust.”
display. “You get all that relevant and contextual information out to them, then allow them to take it on their phone if it interests them. It’s that handoff to be that first mover of information to get it on your phone,” said Korte. Regarding content management, media players can be integrated into the charger design or external players can be utilized. Some integrators are turning to IP broadcast networks to reliably and efficiently push content to units. Using the new ATSC 3.0 broadcast standard (also called NextGen TV), content managers can simultaneously update every EV charger, as well as other digital signage displays, on the network. “I love the broadcast datacast to get a ton of people or content out to the displays without breaking the bank,” Korte noted. As the EV industry continues to expand, IoT and AI will have a massive role in the future development of EV chargers. For example, AI can help manage content, playing relevant ads and more to people at With engaging content, EV charging stations can deliver ROI for potential advertisers.
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BUSINESS DOOH
Hy-Vee is launching its digital signage network across 550 retail locations.
At Hy-Vee locations, the digital signage network is used to build a connection between the retailer and its customers.
Shopping for DOOH Hy-Vee Supermarkets Roll Out In-Store Digital Signage Network By Carolyn Heinze
G
on our excellent customer service and ability to allow
director, enterprise retail sales accounts at Samsung
companies to reach specific consumers across various
Electronics America, the company’s relationship with
channels so they can create an omnichannel market-
Hy-Vee began with the deployment of its displays and
rocery shopping is about to get a lot more
ing strategy via Hy-Vee’s in-store marketing, loyalty
MagicINFO digital signage software. “They chose, at
engaging.
programs, and events.”
the time—because of their growth trajectory—to
Supermarket chain Hy-Vee is in the
have it hosted on their servers,” he recalled. As their
process of launching a new digital signage network
An Evolving CMS
across its 550 retail locations in the Midwest and
Chris Allison, general manager, DOOH at Samsung
Southern United States. Driven by the cloud-based
Ads, said advertisers are seeking a tailored approach
Samsung VXT Content Management System (CMS),
to engaging consumers through mobile, CTV, and
ity. “We had to design software for a one-store
the deployment features more than 10,000 Samsung
DOOH. Then, Samsung Ads measures the impact of
operator or a single location, but also an operator that
QBR Series commercial displays.
the advertising, so it can be “smart about the way we
may have 1,000 locations and 25,000 devices attached
are targeting your audience, based off of the efficien-
to the CMS,” Chapman explained.
Hy-Vee’s RedMedia, the retailer’s media network,
business model evolved, so did the need for a newer, cloud-based system. The VXT CMS prioritizes ease of use and scalabil-
is leveraging the technology for an in-store digital
cies that you can glean from data-driven advertising.
strategy designed to engage shoppers while
The goal is to reach consumers as they move from the
building a stack in PowerPoint. “We wanted to
He likened the user experience that VXT offers to
generating new revenue streams through advertising.
sofa to the store.”
simplify the software and change it to be more in line
A+ Communications & Security, a Hy-Vee company
Allison also noted that the Hy-Vee deployment,
with today’s way of launching and using software,”
headquartered in Des Moines, IA, is overseeing the
which features strategically placed displays through-
Chapman added. “We took all the really great things
technology integration.
out each of its retail locations, illustrates the demand
about MagicINFO, but we improved the useability with VXT and then we added some new features.”
Positioned in aisles, deli, meat and seafood
for more targeted advertising in the DOOH space.
counters, wine and spirits departments, and food
“People don’t want to buy Digital Out-of-Home
courts—as well as Hy-Vee Fast & Fresh convenience
advertising on every screen out there,” he said. “They
In-Store Digital Strategies
locations—the screens display promotions, product
want to understand where their ads are running, and
Projects like the Hy-Vee deployment start with
pairing suggestions, recipes, cooking demonstra-
they want to make sure that those ads are going to be
setting clear parameters for display placement and
tions, menus, and company announcements. For ad
seen by the audience that they care about in premium
content requirements. For example, many retailers
sales and placement, Hy-Vee RedMedia has partnered
locations.”
don’t want advertising that’s political or age inappro-
with Samsung Ads, Samsung Electronics’ advertising division. Launched in the spring of 2023, Samsung
Initially, the retailer opted for an on-premise solution. According to Parrish Chapman, senior
priate. “We want to partner with our retailers, so they have a say on the ads that are being run,” Chapman
Ads combines in-home Connected TV (CTV) with Digital Out-of-Home (DOOH) advertising, so brands can connect with their target audiences both at home and while they shop. “Hy-Vee’s RedMedia provides a best-in-class solution for suppliers and their brands,” said Jason Farver, president of RedMedia. “We pride ourselves
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“The goal is to reach consumers as they move from the sofa to the store.” Chris Allison, Samsung Ads
DOOH BUSINESS
said. “We have to define the hardware placement and
right advertising,” he said. “The whole theme here
explained. “It’s not just about placing ads all day
the client’s digital objectives.”
is quality: quality of advertisers and quality of
long throughout the store—it’s about interspersing
placement.”
them with relevant content, depending on what
From a retail advertising perspective, Allison explained this may include the display of endemic
Retail shoppers must also be part of this
store location you’re in. It’s this combination that is
advertising (brands that the store sells) and non-
equation, Allison added. “We want to make sure that
opening the door to a new face of the retail
endemic messaging (ads from other local businesses,
this is a top-notch experience for the consumer,” he
environment and Digital Out-of-Home.”
for example). “For the endemic brands, when the customer is walking through the aisles of a store, this is their last opportunity to influence them,” he said. Non-endemic advertisers can use this advertising opportunity to attract people to their own businesses—once the grocery shopping is done, of course. “It’s an opportunity to reach [consumers] with relevant messaging in a contextually relevant location,” Allison added. However, the digital signage network isn’t all about the advertising. At Hy-Vee locations, 50% of screen time is dedicated to messaging designed to build a connection between the retailer and its customers. Segments may highlight the company’s corporate social responsibility efforts, employee profiles, or special promotions that are relevant to a specific location. “They want to tell a deep brand story,” Chapman said.
Scalability and Monetization While the Hy-Vee deployment involves thousands of displays, the cloud-based VXT CMS allows small organizations access to enterprise-level capabilities. Content scheduling and management (including proof of play) is done through the Samsung cloud portal, and its managed services offering provides remote monitoring and troubleshooting, as well as on-site in SCN style guide servicing. “Our technology is built to where small operators and AV integrators can utilize it to build their business,” Chapman said. “This is a tech buffet where you can decide what you want to have on your plate, depending on your needs.” For Allison, one of the biggest advantages that Samsung Ads offers is the ability to offset hardware and software costs through the sale of advertising on an in-store network. But the goal should be running ads that will be beneficial to both the advertiser and the retailer. “It’s really about making sure that we understand what the client’s concerns and considerations are when they’re thinking about the
Samsung displays and its cloud-based VXT Content Management System are critical components for Hy-Vee’s digital signage network.
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BUSINESS DIGITAL SIGNAGE
Menus and More Waukesha School District Gets Creative with Digital Signage
T
hroughout its network of K-12 schools, Wisconsin’s School District of Waukesha is using Carousel Digital Signage to efficiently
deliver announcements, event information, and more. The school district’s staff has embraced the cloud-based software solution, with 60 content contributors now keeping displays updated across the campuses of 25 schools. Serving approximately 14,000 students, Waukesha is the seventh-largest school district in the state, with 12 elementary schools, four middle
Carousel Cloud is part of the School District of Waukesha’s digital signage strategy.
There are dozens of content contributors creating messages for the School District of Waukesha.
schools, four high schools, and five charter schools. The district allows each school to decide the level of
and they just hit the ground running from there.”
really happy with how easy it is to update that
Carousel Cloud adoption they wish to pursue.
One of the most important features for Waukesha
However, Luke Christopherson, IT help desk
is Carousel Cloud’s user-friendly approach to content
the system to distribute photos from special events,
coordinator for the school district, noted that once
scheduling and distribution. “One user may create
such as Grandparents’ Day, or images of artwork
people see what it’s capable of—and how it can
content for one school, but if it has to be replicated, we
produced by students.
allow them to create and deliver engaging content—
can deliver it to multiple sites right away,”
they’re enthusiastic about incorporating it into
Christopherson explained. “Also, many of our users
management of the Carousel Cloud system and user
their communications.
like to plan and pre-schedule their content a month
training. Previously, the district used Chromebit stick
ahead of time, and they really like that Carousel Cloud
PCs running on GoogleOS to deliver content to its
lets them do that.”
displays. Google ceased support for Chromebit in
“When they see it in action and discover how easy it is to use, they usually want to get up and running pretty quickly,” he said. “My job is to support their
Aside from daily school announcements, several
information,” Christopherson said. Other schools use
Christopherson is responsible for the back-end
2020, creating an opportunity to refresh the district’s
creativity and make sure they can distribute the
Waukesha district schools are also using Carousel
messaging they want when they need to. With
Cloud to manage the menu boards in their cafeterias.
digital signage strategy.
Carousel, it’s definitely very easy to do that. All I need
“They have three slides that rotate beverage, main
Apple TVs, migrating to Carousel Cloud made perfect
to do is spend a half-hour guiding them through it,
course, and side course choices regularly, and they’re
sense. The initial rollout involved 25 players, which
Because Waukesha classrooms were outfitted with
grew to 75 over the course of 18 months. The rollout
Digital Signage Success in School District
continues to accelerate, with half of the schools now
The Three Rivers School District, located in
to expand its Apple ecosystem throughout the
recalled, “but as people saw how Carousel works, we
southern Oregon, is a 16-school, K-12 system of
district. One initiative brought Apple TV devices into
experienced an increasing demand for it. It’s very
previously adjacent districts formed in 1994. With
classrooms, which would make it easier for instruc-
accessible and easy for users to get the hang of.”
the help of Carousel Cloud, the district’s IT
tors with iPads to wirelessly cast content to displays.
Carousel’s partnership with Jamf and its
department is leveraging the power of digital
That laid the groundwork for Giordano and his
integration with the developer’s mobile device
signage in expected—and unexpected—ways.
team to establish a Carousel Cloud digital signage
management (MDM) platform allows the IT team to
The district’s digital signage journey started
network and eventually extend it into classrooms,
bring new devices online easily, and gives
nearly 10 years ago when then-new IT network
where instructors in each space can now customize
Christopherson instant visibility into how the system
technician Bob Giordano convinced the school district
their own outputs. Today, the school district’s
is operating. The Jamf partnership has also allowed
network spans more than 300 screens across all 16
the district to securely convert its Apple TV devices
schools, reaching staff and nearly 4,500 students in
into media players for more cohesive, efficient
classrooms, as well as administrative offices,
messaging and device management.
cafeterias, and hallways, among other gathering spaces. Initially, the idea was to bring Carousel Cloud into
From school announcements to daily lessons, Carousel Cloud delivers digital signage content throughout the 16-school district in Southern Oregon.
operating multiple players. “We began by gradually swapping out the Chromebits,” Christopherson
“Both the Carousel and Jamf engineers worked with us to ensure that configuring new devices and managing them is really smooth,” he said. “If
the classrooms for emergency notifications. “It
someone contacts me about an issue, I can take care of
wasn’t long before the technology-minded teachers
it on the back end without much—if any—back-and-
in our community learned how easy Carousel was to
forth with the user. Setting up an account, configuring
use,” Giordano recalled. “Soon, schools in the district
permissions, delegating those permissions, and
were requesting more Apple TVs—and today we have
updating those permissions when a user needs access
teachers requesting their own channels. It took us by
to an additional zone is also extremely easy. It’s a huge
surprise, in a great way.”
advantage to have a centralized way to control everything.”
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VIDEO WALLS BUSINESS
completely engaged through live scores and updates. The bar also includes a line of LCD screens providing ample viewing opportunities, regardless of location. DirectTV was also integrated into the network, allowing the venue to stream leading sports broadcasts and events. EAW speakers encompassing the entire sportsbook to help create the feel of an authentic sports bar, and private booths outfitted with personal LCD screens ensure an experience unlike anything they can find at home. Metainteractive also handled all the networking and Wi-Fi needs to ensure information and updates were always quickly available. The XL Center’s new sportsbook features an extensive video wall and other AV technologies.
A Winning Bet in Downtown Hartford Metinteractive Helps XL Center Embrace AV for New Sportsbook
A Different Approach The technology integration was left to the final two months of the eight-month-long construction project, prioritizing larger structural changes before technology integration could begin. But that didn’t worry Jeffrey Mele, Metinteractive CTO. “There are always idiosyncrasies with sports betting that will challenge your team,” said Mele. “It’s not always as simple as it seems from the outside. However, it wasn’t very challenging for us because we understand what’s required in a sports
By Jennifer Guhl
W
foot traffic and attract businesses to the surrounding
betting operation, having roughly half a dozen other
area. “There has been a lot of excitement for the space
sportsbooks completed in the last three years.”
itself and having a different kind of bar/restaurant in
With that in mind, it was imperative to under-
ith the American Gaming Association
downtown Hartford,” said Pearson Davis, assistant
stand how the technology would streamline the
(AGA) reporting $7.5 billion in sports-
general manager with the XL Center.
process of providing information to the user, includ-
book revenue in 2022, an increase of
With the Capital Region Development Authority
ing timing logistics for various games. “They have to
75% percent compared to 2021, venues across the
managing the restaurant and the Connecticut Lottery
have it well scripted out for them so that they can
United States are looking at better ways to incor-
and partners operating sports betting, the new
make educated decisions on what games to show and
porate legal sports betting into their entertainment
sportsbook serves as a standalone space from the
when and how to display odds,” Mele explained.
offerings and existing facilities. Thirty-eight states
arena, with daily access to the public whether the XL
as well as Washington, DC, have moved forward with
Center has an event or not. Still, the design incorpo-
at various angles, provided some dimensional chal-
legalizing some aspect of sports betting, and that
rates a glass wall that gives visitors a glimpse into the
lenges when marrying the multiple components
number is predicted to rise.
arena and, in a way, connects the two spaces.
together, including applying custom-built trim to the
With sports betting officially becoming legal in
The unique shape of the video wall, which juts out
“During events, the glass wall is open into the
bottom of the video wall. The trim had to be field-
Connecticut in September 2021, the XL Center—a
arena, so the atmosphere and noise from the games
measured due to the unusual angles, and the final
multipurpose arena and convention center located in
reverberate through the sportsbook and add to the
dimensions for the video wall were complex to discern
downtown Hartford—unveiled a $5 million sports
excitement,” Davis explained.
until the project was close to completion. “We have full
betting venue last September. One of the largest in
The relaxed surroundings, including beautiful city
metal fabrication capability, so we’re able to do things
the state, the sportsbook is outfitted with a 300-seat
views and a barreled ceiling in the center of the room,
that system integrators typically don’t do,” said Mele.
restaurant, bar, and betting terminals.
make it a comfortable setting to catch professional,
Usually, sportsbooks are enclosed spaces that are
The XL Center is owned by the City of Hartford
college, and other high-profile sporting events. To
dark because of the contrast of the screens, but the XL
and is managed by the Capital Region Development
create a unique, immersive experience for sports
Center took a very different approach. “This whole
Authority and operated by Oak View Group. Its new
fanatics, the sportsbook knew that incorporating
venue has windows, giving you a great view of
sportsbook is now the 10th of only 15 that will be
high-end AV technology into the design would allow
downtown Hartford,” Mele observed. “It’s a radically
allowed by law in the state. Data compiled by the
visitors to view multiple games while accessing vital
different approach, and you would be concerned that
Connecticut Department of Consumer
betting statistics and updates, ensuring they have
the ambient light would negatively affect this. But it
Protection reports that since October 2021, about $175
everything they need to make a winning bet.
doesn’t. Here, it works out.”
million has been gambled in retail sports in the state, amounting to a monthly average of $7.6 million.
Metinteractive, known for its expertise in the
The reaction has been overwhelmingly positive
development of immersive digital environments and
since the venue was unveiled to the public on
entertainment systems, collaborated with SCI
September 18, when guests were able to experience
Architects and AV designer Coherent Design to
the new sportsbook during a Monday Night Football
Housed along the building’s exterior, which
integrate 90 LG FHD Multi-Vision LCD displays, most
doubleheader. Building on the initial excitement,
previously consisted of nondescript concrete and
of which were incorporated into a 131-foot-long video
Davis said they will look to add additional speakers
steel structures that limited access to the street, the
wall managed through a Q-SYS Control engine, along
to the upper-level concourse overlooking the
new sportsbook is expected to increase downtown
with a C-Scape LED ticker run to keep visitors
sportsbook.
Driving Traffic
avnetwork.com // February 2024 // SCN
31
BUSINESS NETWORKING Companies are creating more appealing office spaces, but these added comforts and resources can require significantly more network traffic.
Next-Level Networking Custom Networks Help Leverage Latest Technologies and Meet Rising Expectations By Bryce Nordstrand
R
felt by employees. While they rushed to adapt to daily
between budgets and creating inviting spaces to draw
virtual meetings and looked for ways to separate work
new and existing talent into the office. This trend
life from home life, many office workers created or
presents tremendous opportunity for commercial
obust, reliable data networks are founda-
upgraded personalized workspaces with technologies
integrators to promote and install custom enterprise-
tional for virtually all modern businesses,
and comforts that go beyond the standard expectation
grade networks that not only meet the current needs,
whether it’s a company pursuing a return
for a cubicle or office. For most people, the top
but will also be able to support increasing traffic
to the office, a remote worker joining a conference
concern was ensuring consistent internet connectiv-
demands or business expansions for several years.
call from home, a restaurant providing Wi-Fi to cus-
ity and speeds, with some also taking greater control
tomers, or an airport issuing real-time updates to
over their work environment through new lighting,
Evolution and Customization
flight information displays and digital signage. The
AV, and climate equipment.
Increasing network performance is a fundamental
rapid pace of progress in technological capabilities
To promote a return to the office, companies and
is also pushing average citizens to adopt advanced
leaders can work with professional custom integra-
part of the custom integration industry that never slows down. In the past, networking standards would
solutions in their homes and daily lives, raising
tors to outfit their offices and commercial spaces with
maintain relevance for up to 10 years, but with more
expectations for digital experiences at work, stores,
technologies that provide the same level of comfort
modern services, devices, and digital content
restaurants, transit hubs, and even publicly man-
and productivity workers became accustomed to over
increasing network traffic every day, it takes a lot
aged spaces.
the last several years.
more to stay up-to-date on the newest innovations
Nearly every commercial sector deploys tech-
Better cameras, speakers, or headphones can
nologies that rely on resilient high-speed network
vastly improve the quality and productivity of virtual
Due to accelerating advances, new expectations,
connections and internet service for daily function-
meetings, but may also utilize more network capacity.
and variable customer needs, we are seeing a general
ing. In the future, virtual conferencing solutions,
More advanced computer monitors can increase
acceptance in the custom installation market that
dvLED displays, smart lighting, smart climate
comfort with bigger sizes or curved designs, while
integration firms simply can’t be expected to master
controls, surveillance systems, and access control
meeting rooms and retail experiences can be built
every product or solution. Our integrator partners
systems will increasingly become standard inclu-
around the latest large-format dvLED displays.
are instead embracing mastery in the art of running
sions for many office spaces and retail environ-
However, if these utilize higher-definition audio—or
a business and their role as relationship builders,
ments. Given these trends, the continued success
video or lead to increased overall use—they will
while pursuing business partnerships with subject
and relevance of many businesses and business
require more network bandwidth. Simultaneously,
matter experts who provide insight and training to
plans will require professionally designed, custom
our evolving knowledge about the health effects of
keep pace with increased technological
networking solutions that meet changing needs,
artificial lighting are leading to the use of colored LED
development.
expectations, and standards.
lights or even circadian-based lighting automations,
Reliable Resources The rapid rise of work-from-home and hybrid work
and to plan for future needs.
There is nobody better suited to help integrators
introducing yet another system that’s reliant on a
maintain readiness in the face of change than the
network connection.
experts who design and test the products, such as a
If they want to maintain worker satisfaction while
manufacturer, reseller, or distributor, making these
arrangements caused a seismic shift in possibilities
eliminating a work arrangement some workers
relationships more important than ever. Network
and daily operations for businesses, a change equally
prefer, business owners need to find a balance
solutions for commercial environments involve
32
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NETWORKING BUSINESS
communications, and security are top concerns worthy of focus. Given that we can’t know exact future networking needs, current installations and plans should strive to provide adequate capacity, bandwidth, and expandability to support business growth and new demands. Looking further down the line, every involved party—from manufacturers and distributors to To encourage employees to return to the office, many companies are creating workspaces that are vastly different from standard cubicles.
integrators and end users—will have to adapt to the increasing influence of artificial intelligence (AI) on virtually every type of technology and service. AI’s potential to both disrupt and improve our personal
dozens of variables, including the person or team
suppliers also provide continuing education on new
experiences is profound and may be underestimated
responsible for the performance of the network,
products, encourage discussion among customers
by anyone at any level of an organization.
number of simultaneous users, maximum speeds for
and experts to solve problems, and identify new
individual users and the system as a whole, specific
market needs. When we combine capability,
will almost certainly be leveraged to improve
implications of network intrusions, what systems
experience, and innovative hardware solutions, the
performance across a wide variety of technology
will be connected, requirements for maintenance
result is a network designed and built to meet the
products, from cameras to wireless access points
uptime, and more.
distinct needs of the users.
to smart systems. In this new landscape, leading
Working with preferred product and service
The staggering variety of emerging AI tools
manufacturers must make sure that major
providers can ease the burden, allowing integration
Plan Ahead or Fall Behind
firms to lean on professional teams in sales, market-
Moving forward, the continued push to refine
resources and education to help integrators
ing, design, engineering, network configuration, and
technologies in commercial and public spaces to
optimize solutions to provide specific results and
customer support dedicated to providing the
improve experiences will drive investments and
meet every client’s expectations.
absolute finest network experience. In addition to
network requirements. In the immediate term,
Bryce Nordstrand is VP of access networks and
direct, immediate assistance for RFPs, the best
advances in digital signage networks, virtual
general manager of managed services for SnapOne.
enhancements are matched with meaningful
TECHNOLOGY PROJECTION MAPPING
Immersive ‘Expressions’ National WWII Museum Celebrates Veterans with Outdoor Projection Mapping Experience By Wayne Cavadi
E
Mendelson and his team faced several challenges
buildings, and they’re within 20 feet of the building,
in the installation process. “That was in the height of
so there’s no getting projection around them,”
supply chain issues,” Mendelson recalled. “Speakers
Mendelson explained. “We had to shoot projection
xpressions of America is a 30-minute, immer-
were a challenge to get in on time—we actually ended
through them, but they didn’t want to see projection
sive outdoor experience at the National WWII
up having to swap the speaker models that we were
on the canopy leg itself.”
Museum in New Orleans. Through vivid
using because we couldn’t get the ones that we
Mendelson also described challenges in finding
projection mapping and powerful audio, the show
wanted. The projection housings were another big
the fiber pass, because all the buildings were built in
shares art, music, and reflections from veterans and
one. We used Tempest for the projection housings,
phases. “They knew they had multimode because
everyday people that served in World War II. Visu-
and the model that we had spec’d they could no longer
that’s what they use for their network, but they didn’t
als projected as large as 90 feet tall transform the
get the air conditioning parts for.”
even realize that there was single mode sitting right
exterior of the museum’s buildings into the stories of the men and women from that historic era.
While some of the manufacturers were able to
next to it,” he said. “We walked to campus once or
come up with solutions, there were other forces at
twice with their IT department to try to trace out all of
While Medici Media (formerly known as
play. “The other big delay was the canopy that is over
our fiber passes—and there’s some interesting
Mousetrappe) took care of the concept design and
the entire campus,” Mendelson said. “That was the
patches back and forth through buildings to get where
production, it was Solomon Group who executed the
root of the delay. They had some issues with manu-
we needed to go.”
install using Panasonic projectors, Tempest
facturing it and getting it here and getting it installed.
enclosures, and a slew of Pro AV solutions to bring
That was several years delayed. Once the canopy was
Handling Big Easy Humidity
these stories to life. It went so well that Solomon
up, we did the first phase by lighting the canopy. Even
In order to bring the content to life, Solomon Group
Group recently completed another project on the
though the Liberation building wasn’t there, we did
used eight Panasonic 50,000-lumen projectors,
newly opened Liberation Pavilion. Yes, we said on.
all the lighting a year before Expressions opened.”
including six PT-RQ50Ks, one PT-RQ32K, and one
That’s right, the team started preparing the
PT-RQ22K. Keeping those projectors safe in the
Challenging Times
projection mapping extravaganza minus the center
outdoor venue was top priority, especially in a region
Expressions of America was a long time coming. The
building on which the stories would be projected.
of the United States known for muggy days and
entire project was almost five years in the making,
Once that canopy was finished, more production
hurricane seasons. Remember those supply chain
but the installation itself took roughly eight
challenges emerged.
issues Mendelson discussed with the projection
months from March-November 2022. While he
“The Liberation Pavilion has the most projection
housing? Working with Tempest, Solomon Group was
wasn’t there from the beginning five years ago,
on it, and then the two buildings that flank it to the
able to get a prototype—the Tempest Oasis active-
Barry Mendelson, audiovisual programmer for
left and right also have projection on them. But the
cooled enclosure—to ensure everything was on time
Solomon Group, led the charge.
canopy legs are directly in front of the two side
for the November 2022 opening. “There was a bit of a growing pain because [Tempest] are based in California,” Mendelson recalled. “They don’t have the humidity that we have here and the temperature swings that we have here, so once we got them installed, it would fail. We would have 70-80% humidity, so the air-conditioned units pushing that cold air into those housings would cause condensation on the glass and then wash out the projection. “But Tempest was really good about coming up with a fix,” he continued. “They were very responsive in getting a fix—they ended up putting a second layer of glass in a heater in the middle that kicks on with the projector so that it keeps that glass hot, so that condensation, if it does form, will burn off quickly.” “We’re delighted to have been able to work with the Solomon team to produce this amazing experience, even in such a challenging humid environment,” said Felipe Hermosillo, Tempest’s vice president of sales. “It’s a stunning project and an exciting debut for the Oasis enclosure family. The latest RGB laser projectors are amazing, but they are sensitive to heat and temperature fluctuations, and
Eight Panasonic projectors bring the Expressions of America outdoor experience to life.
this is where Oasis really wins, even in a challenging environment like the Big Easy.”
34
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PROJECTION MAPPING TECHNOLOGY
Liberating Visuals The lighting on the canopy and around the show is brought to life with more than 100 Chauvet Ilumipods. The audio—so important not just for the accompanying music but for clarity in the stories that are told—covers the entire audience with 18 One Systems full-range outdoor speakers and six subwoofers. “The audio does play a big role in the show because there’s actual archived clips of veterans accounting their experiences in the war,” Mendelson explained. “And the soundtrack was completely done from scratch and recorded locally in New Orleans with local artists.” A fiber infrastructure is used for video transmission, which was why uncovering those fiber paths was so important in those original walkthroughs. To deliver the content, there are three synched LightAct
Tempest projector enclosures compensate for the humidity of New Orleans to minimize condensation issues.
video servers that output video to Aurora Multimedia fiber extenders. Single-mode fiber connects to all the
Solomon Group has been working on the installations
operations for Solomon Group, “but it was cool that at
receivers, where the content is transferred back to
on the first and second floor. “It’s a lot of projection,”
one of the grand openings of Expressions, there were
HDMI for the projectors. The result is a high-lumen,
Mendelson said. “It’s a mix of Panasonic and Epson
about 22 World War II veterans in the audience. Not
vivid show that takes the guests back to the 1940s.
projectors and a lot of interactive ELO touchscreens.”
only did Solomon Group produce the event via our live
November 2023 saw the opening of the final
The experience has been a success for guests, but
building of the National WII Museum’s plan. Inside
it was also rewarding for the people who brought it all
technology behind the event got to watch as 22 World
the Liberation Pavilion are two floors of exhibits and a
together to sit back and watch it unfold. “Not even on
War II veterans got to watch their stories projected 90
third floor with a 4D theater with a rotating seat base.
the technical side,” said Adan Murad, director, sales
feet in the air. I thought that was fun.”
events department, but the people who did the
avnetwork.com // February 2024 // SCN
35
TECHNOLOGY COLLABORATIVE AV
Learning Reimagined New Innovation Hub at RIT Designed to Help Students ‘Change the World’ By Ledetta Asfa-Wossen
R
ochester Institute of Technology (RIT) is known for its multi-disciplinary blend of technology, the arts, and design. Its
latest development, a Student Hall for Exploration and Development (SHED), takes audience-centered design to new heights. Despite the humble acronym, the SHED is a vast creative hub at the heart of RIT’s campus that caters to all students, including the deaf and hard of hearing. The facility is made up of a grand, four-story atrium that forms the epicenter and branches out into various flexible spaces, from theaters to makerspaces, and classrooms. The 200,000-square-foot project is still ongoing and has been five years in the making. “We wanted the SHED to be a place where all students can accelerate their concepts and innovations through collaboration and exploration. To allow students to think laterally, be creative, and
Classrooms in the SHED feature AV technology and flexible furniture to encourage collaborative learning.
apply what they’ve learned in the classroom,” said David Munson, president, RIT. “This facility will help
120,000 square feet of new construction and more
enables comfortable viewing of the screen under the
our students change the world.”
than 83,000 square feet of renovations. Highlights of
brightest ambient conditions,” said Tom Petershack,
the facility include a huge continuous makerspace at
director of media and special projects at Planar.
in 2019, RIT assigned the integrator to design its most
the heart of the SHED, housing multiple shops for
“Given the high ambient brightness of the space due
ambitious project yet. “RIT has a large community of
paint, metal and woodworking, and CNC machining,
to a large amount of natural light, a high-brightness
deaf and hard-of-hearing students,” explained Chico
as well as a giant open workspace. There’s also an
product was required to comfortably view the LED
Dominguez, SVP service delivery at Kinly. “Previ-
American Sign Language and Deaf Studies
video wall during the day. The Planar Luminate Pro
ously, students would sit together in the same area of
Community Center, plus an adaptable 180-seat
Series indoor provided that high brightness, but also
a lecture room to better engage with content. Working
Glass Box Theater for performances and exhibits.
allowed for a fine pixel pitch for a high-resolution
Having worked with Kinly on a cybersecurity build
closely alongside RIT’s Theater Projects team and
screen.”
Contacta, we wanted to enhance the assisted learning
Wall of Light
systems already in place, deliver the capability to have
An important visual detail of the development is an
production feeds into the video wall to support the
sign language interpreters via video in classes, and
enormous Planar LED marquee in the atrium. The
LED content playout setup. In addition to being a
allow students to learn wherever they are most
video wall is a 12x14 array of Planar Luminate Pro
versatile playout system, RIT hopes to extend
comfortable. Ultimately, the aim was to do a signifi-
Series 1.9mm indoor high bright DirectView LED dis-
students the chance to get some hands-on experience
cant technology upgrade that provides an enjoyable,
plays and measures roughly 23 feet tall and 20 feet
with the high-end media server platform through its
integrated, and inclusive environment for all students
wide, with an overall resolution of 3,072x3,584.
various film, engineering, and design courses.
to learn and thrive in.” The development involved two parts—roughly
“The Planar Luminate Pro Series indoor 1.9mm has a calibrated brightness of 3000 nits, which
An AV Stumpfl PIXERA Four was selected for
“The PIXERA Four is perfect for these type of highly demanding, real-time graphics applications and XR/broadcast setups. It not only offers an intuitive UI combined with a powerful render engine but is also an increasingly popular tool in the world of virtual productions,” noted Mikael Ritter, AV Stumpfl’s sales operations specialist.
Future-Proof Classrooms A significant part of the project was the learning spaces, including 27 classrooms, all of which feature video technology to increase accessibility, largeformat projection screens, and flexible furniture, From left, David C. Munson, Tom Petershack, Chico Dominguez, and Mikael Ritter
36
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creating endless configurations for collaborative
COLLABORATIVE AV TECHNOLOGY
learning. There’s a definitive blueprint when it comes to AV classrooms, according to Dominguez. “We developed a standard user interface with RIT
atrium to facilitate presentations. The project also involved the renovation of RIT’s
A standard user interface is used across classrooms and lecture halls to interact with the AV equipment.
Wallace Library, including classrooms as well as
staff, which is utilized across all the standard
recording studios. “All these incorporated Samsung
classrooms, active classrooms, and lecture halls,” he
LED display technology, Crestron UC engines, DM
said. “This is based on speakers, amplifiers, micro-
NVX multicast technology, Zoom videoconferencing,
phones, cameras, control equipment, RIT wiring
and integrated audio and control to support distance
standards, faceplates, LED displays, screens, and
learning,” Dominguez said. “This was further
projectors to deliver optimal audio, visual, control,
supported by sign language interpretation capabili-
and mobilization.”
ties and Zoom’s transcription service for distance and
The majority of the larger classrooms and lecture
assisted listening. Additional areas included a dance
halls were based on multiple presentation systems.
studio featuring a Samsung LED display, Shure WL185
“Each one has seven Panasonic laser projectors
microphones, JBL CONTROL 64P/T pendant speakers,
recessed from the ceiling, which was an extremely
Martin Audio ACS-55T-W ceiling loudspeakers, and
challenging integration,” Dominguez added. “Incor-
Creston DM NVX technology, as well as a music room
large-scale project with many intricacies on several
porated into these systems are Crestron UC engines
with a fully-integrated Crestron system, laser
different levels, which was further complicated by the
with Zoom videoconferencing leveraging Crestron
projection, and a Meyer Sound ULTRA-X40
global pandemic. The SHED was delayed significantly
DM NVX encoders and decoders for dynamic content
loudspeaker.”
due to lead times of as much as 13 months owing to
sharing throughout the facility and wider campus
supply chain shortages, which made hitting deadlines
within every classroom. They also incorporate Shure
Challenging Integration
microphones on all tables as well as wireless hand-
Understanding the needs of instructors was para-
And it wasn’t just technology shortages. “We even
helds for lecturers. The smaller classrooms feature
mount. The integration had to be designed in a way
had problems sourcing construction equipment such
Panasonic and Samsung LED displays and Crestron
that was consistent and easy to use.
as steel for I-beams, fire doors, glass, and sensors,”
DM NVX technology for content sharing and distribution.”
“Several of the classrooms in the Wallace Library
extremely challenging,” Dominguez recalled.
added Dominguez. “It also caused complications on
were fitted with Crestron UC engines for Zoom
site with health and safety considerations including
videoconferencing and standard configurations for
wearing masks, regularly testing for COVID-19, and
Crestron DM NVX integrated video and audio for
display technology and lectern podium positioning to
resultant staff absences.”
campus broadcasting. This allows students to
allow professors consistent content sharing,”
collaborate internally in the spaces as well as
Dominguez explained. “We also integrated Mersive
orders in the bill of materials to tackle external forces
throughout the entire campus. The maker showcase
Solstice technology for wireless content sharing for
as they arose. But the results speak for themselves.
area, where engineering students demonstrate
students and instructors from various device types to
“There is no other university that has this type of
their projects, features laser projectors, digital
include tablets, phones, and of course laptops.”
integrated facility that’s not just a set of machine
The makerspaces use laser projection as well as
mobile carts for collaboration on-the-move, and large glass doors that open the entire space into the
A project of this scale is no easy feat, especially when working around a pandemic. “This was a
A Planar LED marquee in the atrium is bright enough for comfortable viewing, even with all the natural light in the atrium.
avnetwork.com // February 2024 // SCN
37
It took some tinkering, too—there were 68 change
tools and shop equipment,” added Munson. “It’s way more than that.”
TECHNOLOGY CLOUD POWER
T GE M
I TY ES AG
Pricing Modern Infrastructures Designing the System Might Be Easier than the Cost Analysis By Dave Van Hoy
A
The OpEx Transition
Another variable is the cost of renting the platform the software runs on, such as Amazon or Google. This math must be added to what is already a complex financial calculation. Then, these costs are compared against the cost of purchasing and maintaining it outright. When equipment is purchased for on premise, the cost never changes, no matter the usage. Whether it’s used for 10 events or 100, the cost remains the same. If I’m “renting” it from a vendor based on time used, the cost calculations involve how long I’m making
Once an integrator has determined the optimal
this system available—12, 24, 36, maybe even up to 60
design, the next step is demonstrating financial
months. Plus, how often is it turned on? In public
side from building the project at hand,
benefits to the client. And this is as complicated, if
cloud, this is all based on a by-the-minute
our biggest job as systems integrators is
not more so, as putting the technical system together.
“consumption” model. This is the critical stuff clients
guiding clients through both the technical
That’s because most systems contractors are used to
need to know before making decisions.
and financial decision-making process. In some
planning with a CapEx approach that’s prevalent
ways, the technical process is easier. Most systems
today. The transition to a hybrid or fully OpEx model
Technical Advantages
contracting professionals are adept at analyzing
is not only difficult for the system contractor but also
In some cases, there may be technical advantages that
technical choices, weighing the pros and cons of
for the client trying to make the right choice.
will drive the decision. For example, the client may
different equipment vendors and transmission
Systems contractors have typically considered
want a specific set of operators to run multiple shows
protocols in an on-prem scenario. But that all
on-premise costs and the client’s amortization
worldwide. In that case, a cloud-based system is
changes when you move to a hybrid environment, as
schedule first. That determines the cost spread over a
obvious since the operator location is irrelevant.
do the financial implications.
fixed period. We focus on the total cost of operation
Decisions must be made around what technology
With a hybrid workforce, this could influence
(TCO), which involves the cost of acquisition,
decision making. You will need to roll in the
would benefit from virtualization versus when it
installation, and maintenance, spreading that out
maintenance cost of on-prem versions versus the
won’t provide gain and could possibly be a negative.
across the time the technology will function. Those
in-cloud versions. All this winds up on a spreadsheet
As discussed in detail in my last column, a situation
numbers are run against a depreciation schedule. That’s
with some amortization schedule.
where any cloud-induced latency can’t be tolerated
math we’ve all done thousands of times for our clients.
often leads to the creation of a hybrid system. Think of IFB as an example where we must keep
Imagine instead of these CapEx spends, every
While on-premise costs are mainly fixed, some costs can vary. With a new building that has zero
piece of equipment in the system is rented from a
infrastructure built out, the math can change. Do I
certain signal paths on the same location as the
vendor. We now must analyze how long it will last and
need to build a server room? If I’m building one, what’s
origination point to minimize latency for talent
how much it will be used. You also may need to
the optimal size that allows for a smaller on-prem bill?
monitoring. When factors like latency are critical to
include technical support for the entire time you’re
Power and air conditioning costs must be factored in. If
the working environment, performance becomes a
renting it. Perhaps the maintenance contract is built
a building already has a server room in place, power
determining factor that overrides cost projections.
into the rental.
and air conditioning are established, fixed costs.
38
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CLOUD POWER TECHNOLOGY
Moving to the cloud won’t save money because the
salesperson or technical account manager has today.
Looking Ahead
physical support infrastructure is already there.
While these are significantly different models than
Where will all these choices lead us? I believe there will
many are used to working with, the concepts of cost
emerge a large, software-defined infrastructure
comparison and cost benefits remain the same.
market, which is public cloud based today but will focus
For hybrid or cloud-based models, many of our larger clients will have a contract with one of the hyperscalers that they will want tied into the financial
Experience is what will enable you to compare
equation. With a virtualized system, you have to make
costs in the end. You must learn how to research and
a different kind of hybrid scenario that features
your best educated guess around utilization.
judge the costs of these variable parameters with each
software-defined models driven by the public cloud
vendor and multiply those costs across the different
methodologies, but where the client owns the physical
hyperscalers.
infrastructure and virtualizes the applications.
Does this need to be turned on 24/7 or just for specific events? Even when turned off, there’s a cost to
on virtualized infrastructure on premise. This would be
living in cloud, because it occupies storage space. Figure
If you really want to take it to its maximum benefit
The approach gives them the ability to be more
out all the resources you would use, the virtual machine
for the client, you must also consider the performance
flexible in terms of product and service offerings to
configurations, ingress and egress charges, signal
of the hyperscalers. Many of these infrastructures will
clients, while having higher but more predictable
transport charges, and build a cost model from there.
run differently on the various platforms. Each of
costs than public cloud. This is software-defined
them has a different technical infrastructure, a
infrastructure on premise. For example, if the TD at a
different way of deploying products in their
facility where I placed a particular switcher prefers
infrastructure, and varying methods of billing.
another, a different app and new configurations
All About the Models The cost modeling can be complicated when compared against our tried-and-true, on-premise CapEx model.
As an example, depending upon the complexity of
would be all that’s required to change it out.
But if you’re looking for the best possible outcome for
the products we’re deploying in it, Grass Valley’s
your customer, all these things must go into your plan.
cloud production control room environment is often
daunting for an integrator. The choices are almost
This complex modeling is why many integrators are
less expensive to operate in Google than it is in
exponential in terms of their potential variations.
reluctant to make these cost comparisons.
Amazon—sometimes by as much as 25-30%. That’s
That flexibility and ability to own what we do for our
because of the way Google has configured the
clients is a benefit. The trick is not to get bogged down
technical decisions but also sound financial decisions.
flexibility of its virtualized compute infrastructure. In
in the myriad of options, but view them as increasing
It can be one of the most important competitive tools
some ways, AWS is faster to deploy because there are
your expertise and value to clients.
you have as a systems integrator today.
more set choices, but there’s less ability to customize
Dave Van Hoy is the president of Advanced Systems
it exactly for the performance required.
Group, LLC. Contact him at dvh@asgllc.com.
Developing your cost models enables not only solid
Conceptually, it’s the same skillset that every
With so many different approaches now, it can be
avnetwork.com // February 2024 // SCN
39
TECHNOLOGY NEW PRODUCTS
LG ProBeam BU53RG The new LG ProBeam BU53RG short-throw 4K UHD projector, a replacement to the popular BU53PST, includes webOS 6.0 Signage, a powerful web-based
SoundTube Entertainment XT850-Sub
PPDS Philips Signage 3000 QE-Line
digital signage platform with advanced display
SoundTube has launched the XT850-Sub, an 8-inch
Available in 50, 55, and 65-inch variants, the
features. Like its predecessor, the ProBeam BU53RG
outdoor subwoofer that uses a nontraditional
portrait or landscape-mountable Philips Signage
offers features and capabilities that make it ideal for
70/100v technology that vastly improves subwoofer
3000 EcoDesign Series complements the features of
corporate meeting rooms and entertainment
performance. The XT850-Sub features SuperT
the Q-Line Series—redesigned using PPDS’ new Eco
destinations. With the ability to display a large
transformerless technology, which delivers full-
Design methodology for improved energy efficien-
high-resolution image in tight spaces, thanks to its
range bass without the losses in low-end frequency
cies and reduced packaging waste. It consumes up to
0.94-1.14 throw ratio, the projector offers 5,000 ANSI
performance due to traditional 70.7/100 Volt
50% less power versus comparable models, while
lumens, significant lens shift control of 20% horizon-
subwoofer transformer behavior. This means that
offering 4K visuals with its 350 cd/m2 LED display.
tal and 50% vertical, 1.2x zoom capability, 3,000,000:1
users can enjoy deep, powerful bass to 30 Hz with
Its onboard quad-core chipset delivers smooth,
contrast ratio, and support for multiple popular
peak output of 112 dB, even in constant voltage
consistent performance that can be managed
aspect ratios (16:9, 16:10, 16:6, and 21:9). The laser is
applications. For added versatility and flexibility,
manually or remotely. With SmartPlayer, content
rated to provide up to 20,000 hours at full brightness.
the XT850-Sub features a weatherproof two-
can be plugged directly into the display via USB or
It can also form the center of a single-room solution
position tap switch for 8 ohm or 70.7/100 Volt
microSD card, while the integrated media player
through its integrated 5W stereo speakers, Bluetooth
applications. Available in green or sandstone, the
allows for playlists to be created and scheduled via
audio out with sync control, and more.
XT850-Sub also features a sealed, in-ground
the intuitive on-screen menu. Other features
IP55-rated enclosure design, offering protection
include connectivity with PPDS Wave, the compa-
against dust and water. Plus, it includes theft-
ny’s secure cloud ecosystem, a variety of I/O ports,
resistant mounting hardware.
and FailOver technology, which switches automati-
Extron CA 163 The CA 163 is an easy-to-install column array speaker that’s designed to combine excellent speech intelligi-
cally to the secondary input if the primary source
bility, a contemporary aesthetic, and integration-
becomes unavailable.
friendly mounting options. Ideal for acoustically challenging environments, it features a focused vertical dispersion that efficiently directs sound to listeners instead of reflective ceilings or floors. Two mounting systems are available to accommodate different room layouts and
Q-SYS QIO-AES8x8 / QIO-TEL2
sizes. The included wall-
The latest additions to the Q-SYS QIO Series of I/O
mounting template makes
peripherals, the QIO-AES8x8 and QIO-TEL2,
it easy to accurately
expand Q-SYS system capabilities to enable
position the speaker
streamlined interoperability with non-networked
mounts. Once the mounts
audio and analog telephony systems. By decoupling
Vizrt TriCaster Flex Dual
are installed, a slot on the
local I/O from processing hardware, QIO Series
Vizrt has added a second TriCaster Flex control panel
rear of the speaker easily
devices allow users to place the I/O exactly where
to its lineup, the TriCaster Flex Dual. At the heart of
allows it to slide up and
needed to support the desired topology. The
the dual-stripe control panel are customizable
down to the desired height.
QIO-AES8x8 features eight AES3 digital inputs and
workflows that evolve to meet the need of any
The CA 163 PT includes a
eight AES3 digital outputs, allowing users to
production. With delegate and utility rows, TriCaster
pan-and-tilt mount for
integrate a wide range of digital sources into their
Flex Dual offers 24 direct crosspoints and two
maximum speaker aiming
systems, including media servers, mixing consoles,
10-key dynamic menu systems, plus a full-size
flexibility, while the CA 163
DAWs, and other digital recording and playback
joystick and other innovative features. It’s also an
LP includes a low‑profile
devices. The QIO-TEL2 integrates two PSTN (POTS)
NDI-native panel, which means operators are no
mount for minimal
phone lines on standard RJ-11 connectors to
longer tethered to where their TriCaster physically
protrusion fromthe wall.
integrate analog telephony systems into Q-SYS.
sits. Compatible with TriCaster hardware models as
Available in paintable black
The QIO-TEL2 is designed to handle PSTN sub-
well as TriCaster Vectar in the cloud, Flex Dual
or white,the CA 163 is ideal
scriber lines, PBX phone and paging systems, and
simply connects to the network and controls
for ambient environments.
retrofit applications with ease.
switchers from anywhere in the world.
40
SCN // February 2024 // avnetwork.com
NEW PRODUCTS TECHNOLOGY
FSR CB-22+ Packed with features and designed for seamless integration, the new CB-22+ series delivers versatility,
Avocor R Series
security, and ease of
The R Series, the first in a line of digital signage
installation in the ceiling box market. Integrated
solutions, combines Avocor’s display technology with
threaded rod mounts eliminate the need for
Rise Vision’s digital signage software platform.
Studio Technologies Model 201
separate mounting kits, streamlining the installa-
Designed to support a variety of markets, the R Series
Suitable for local or off-site single or multi-language
tion process while ensuring a secure fit. Security and
reimagines traditional digital signage by combining a
situations, the Model 201 Interpreter's Console
accessibility converge with the inclusion of a
display, media player, and smart digital signage
creates a complete interpreter position. Only a PoE
lockable cover latch. Its larger mounting shelf offers
software—as well as remote device management
connection and headset (5-pin XLR or 3.5mm
an expanded, removable dual-tilting equipment
capabilities—into one solution. Key features include an
connectors) with attached microphone is required for
shelf that provides ample space for AV components.
emergency broadcast override via Rise Vision that
operation. A dual-channel (stereo) headphone output
Supporting a load rating of up to 100 pounds, these
enables the rapid deployment of emergency alerts to
can be configured to meet the needs of the inter-
ceiling boxes guarantee stability in any installation
enhance safety, customizable Rise Vision templates,
preter. A set of buttons and rotary controls also allow
scenario, while the quick-disconnect safety cable
tamper-proof design, auto-restart after power outages,
the user to establish site-specific operating condi-
prevents the cover door from detaching completely
power on/off scheduling, and over-the-air firmware
tions. While the Model 201 can be used by itself to
from the box, adding an extra layer of convenience.
updates to meet the growing demands of managing
create a simple, single-language interpretation
Options include decorative metal plates that elevate
multiple devices across multiple locations. Avocor and
position, one or more Model 201 units can integrate
the aesthetics of your ceiling box, as well as a
Rise Vision will also provide an optional hardware-as-
with other Studio Technologies’ products to achieve a
temperature-controlled variable speed low-noise
a-service subscription model to cater to diverse
sophisticated voice interpretation system using
fan kit.
customer preferences and needs.
Dante technology.
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 // February 2024 // SCN
41
VIEWPOINT
Hybrid Headaches Technology Can Help Businesses Find Workplace Balance in Three Key Areas By Eamon O’Doherty
I
toward improving audio through directional
and where they feel like they are part of a wider
microphones and AI noise suppression, meeting
community.
room acoustics are equally important. In the room
To accomplish this, it might be time to rethink
t’s clear that hybrid work is here to stay, but
itself, it’s worth reducing hard surfaces that cause
what me mean by an office. In the context of hybrid,
getting the most effective hybrid working
echo and including lots of soft furnishings that can
we should instead think of them as “relationship
models in place has been a learning experience
absorb further ambient noise (and are also perceived
buildings” that are designed around welcoming team
for everyone—facilities managers, employees, IT
as welcoming). It’s also worth considering adding
members and making connections. In some respects,
teams, and even building architects and designers.
fabric padding to walls, which can often blend into a
offices should almost feel like a home. For example,
meeting space aesthetic.
think of incorporating a “welcome lounge” for when
While hybrid working is a boon for work-life balance, it doesn’t come without its challenges. As
employees arrive, a calm and peaceful area to help
businesses look to maintain a thriving, engaged, and
The Office ‘Magnet’
productive workforce, there needs to be parameters in
Businesses should also promote equality,
place to make sure things don’t run wild. Three key
participation, and empathy. A good way of doing this
be thought of as “avenues” that are designed to
areas that businesses have widely struggled with
is to make sure that offices themselves are
deliberately slow you down and promote “bump
since going hybrid are inclusivity, driving innovation,
“magnets”—places that employees want to come to
talk,” those spontaneous conversations sparked by
and ensuring their workplace culture thrives. To achieve all of these and make hybrid work a success, businesses need the right mixture of culture, technology, and office facilities.
Purpose and Presence A key tenet to successful hybrid working is trust. While individuals are part of a team, they equally need to be given the freedom to develop their own skills and reach their own objectives. Sometimes quiet focus is needed, away from emails and instant messaging, and employees shouldn’t feel that the pressure of “presenteeism” to distract them from getting on with focused tasks. If employees are being called into the office, there also needs to be purposeful presence. This means there should be a reason for employees making the journey in, such as an in-person meeting or brainstorm session with the entire team, rather than just carrying out solo tasks like written work or admin that could be done more effectively at home. Regardless of where employees are, they should
shake off any commute-induced stress. To promote sociability, corridors should instead
unexpectedly seeing a colleague. That interaction
Technology is central to the concept of meeting equity, and a new breed of meeting room solutions are now available featuring intelligent innovations to make sure everyone is seen and heard clearly.
might just spur a new idea or initiative that wouldn’t have come about otherwise. Offices should also look to incorporate flexible architecture, where spaces can be adapted and changed with mobile furniture and technology. Fixed furniture can be anchoring and oppressive, but flexible spaces help to add to workplace dynamism and add a sense of spontaneity. All of this should also be done with sustainability at front of mind—going hybrid shouldn’t come at an environmental cost. We’re increasingly seeing office furniture that has been made from repurposed or natural materials, and new technologies are starting to incorporate post-recycled plastics to reduce their environmental impact, helping organizations to stay to their sustainability targets. Ultimately, we are on an ongoing journey with hybrid working. We certainly haven’t reached its final destination yet, and there will likely be some more turns in the road ahead as organizations and employees continue to find the best ways to work in a
feel empowered to speak up in meetings, stay
hybrid model. As we navigate this
engaged, and contribute meaningfully. Technology is
dynamic, the key to hybrid working
central to the concept of meeting equity, and a new
success will be adopting a test-and-
breed of meeting room solutions are now available
learn approach, while maintaining a
featuring intelligent innovations to make sure
flexible approach to how technology,
everyone is seen and heard clearly. For example,
facilities, and culture come together.
Logitech Sight is an innovative tabletop meeting
Eamon O’Doherty is EMEA
room camera that helps to ensure in-room
enterprise director for Logitech.
participants are presented face-on to at-home participants, as if everyone has a seat at the same table. As well as seeing clearly, businesses also need to focus on audio. We’ve all been on a video call that the best way to feel excluded is by not being able to hear what’s going on. While intelligent technology can go a long way
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SCN // February 2024 // avnetwork.com
GETTY IMAGES
sounds like you’re dialing into a bowling alley—and