Systems Contractor News - August 2024

YOUR INSIDER BUSINESS RESOURCE FOR MORE THAN 30 YEARS

®

OPEN FOR INNOVATION

New Studio Gets FAU Students Immersed In Virtual Production AVNETWORK.COM

AUGUST 2024

32 Blueprint for Success Matt Czyzweski considers hiring for potential, not experience.

36 Tech Perspectives David J. Danto wonders why the GenAI hype feels familiar.

42 Viewpoint

32

36

42

Joseph D. Cornwall explains how AI is changing Pro AV.

CONTENTS 24

High Marks for New Studio BrandStar is helping Florida

Atlantic University get immersed in virtual production.

By Carolyn Heinze

34

People

Technology

20 Executive Q&A

34 Corporate Connectivity

Paul Richards reflects on the 10th anniversary of

Charter Communications has loaded its auditorium

PTZOptics.

with broadcast-quality technology.

By Mark J. Pescatore

By Jennifer Guhl

22 Executive Q&A

36 Tech Perspectives

swXtch.io’s Geeter Kyrazis explains the advantages of

Our new columnist wonders why the GenAI hype feels

cloud-based production.

so familiar.

By Mark J. Pescatore

By David J. Danto

Business Learn about the advantages short-throw projectors

38 Jabra Videobar Is Built for Busy Meetings

offer for classrooms.

The PanaCast 50 offers

By Mark J. Pescatore

multiple cameras,

26 Closer to the Action

30 Captivating Congregations Here’s why projectors remain an appealing display option for houses of worship.

By James Careless

32 Blueprint for Success

microphones, and speakers.

By Chuck Gloman

39 Sennheiser Keeps It Simple Learn how the Profile USB

Have you considered hiring someone for their

microphone is an easy way to

potential rather than their experience?

upgrade corporate audio.

By Matt Czyzweski

By Mark J. Pescatore

38 39

Viewpoint 42 Making Connections Here’s how implementing AI technology is changing the Pro AV industy.

By Joseph D. Cornwall

Departments 4 SYSTEMS CHECK 6 NEWS 18 NEWSMAKERS 40 NEW PRODUCTS

Vol. 31 No. 8 August 2024 Systems Contractor News (ISSN 1078-4993) is published monthly by Future US, Inc., 130 West 42nd Street, 7th Floor, New York, NY 10036-8002. Periodical postage paid at New York, NY and additional mailing offices. POSTMASTER: send address changes to: SYSTEMS CONTRACTOR NEWS, P.O. Box 1051, Lowell, MA 01853.

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

avnetwork.com // August 2024 // SCN

3

®

SYSTEMS CHECK avnetwork.com

My FAU class ring is all cleaned up and ready to impress (even with an old logo), but not everything has a second life.

MARK J. PESCATORE Content Director

EMAIL

mark.pescatore@futurenet.com

FACEBOOK

facebook.com/ systemscontractor

Some Old Things Can Be New Again

W

hen I was in college, my parents convinced me to get a class ring. I very much enjoyed wearing my high school ring, but their thinking was that a college ring would make a better impression on potential employers.

Hence, I am the proud owner of an understated gold ring with an outdated logo from Florida Atlantic University (read about my alma mater's new virtual production studio on page 24).

I wore it for some time, but eventually “my precious” found its way into that dark

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

corner of storage we all keep reserved for things we don’t use but don’t want to discard. When I was asked to guest lecture at FAU last year, I remembered the ring and fished it out so I could show it off to the students. That’s when I realized my ring needed a little renovation.

For one thing, the base of the shank had been flattened at some point, which in

TWITTER twitter.com/scnmag

turn had messed up the fit. I could still get it on my finger, but it was not an easy feat. I also discovered my Social Security Number had been engraved on the inside of the ring. Apparently, it used to be no big thing to include your SSN on jewelry for identification purposes.

A quick trip to my local jeweler cleaned up the ring, fixed the sizing, and removed my SSN. Now, it’s once again part of the right-ring-finger rotation.

Which brings me to ViewSonic.

Following a discussion about monitors at InfoComm, ViewSonic loaned me a 34-inch curved model, the V3456C. I’ve been using a 21:9 widescreen monitor in my office for about three years, but I had never tried a curved option. To put it as astutely as possible, considering my academic pedigree and vast industry experience: Me likey.

I swear it’s easier on my eyes, plus there’s an immersive feel when watching full-screen videos. In fact, the only real drawbacks I’ve found are that the base takes up more real estate on my desk than my previous monitor (square base instead of long feet) and the housing is thicker, so I had to adjust my webcam placement. So yes, I am rethinking my office setup.

Now, don’t try to make a connection between an old college ring and a new monitor. There isn’t one. Instead, these stories provide examples of how some old things can have new life, while some new things are unavoidably disruptive to your

AUGUST 2024 VOL. 31 NO. 8 CONTENT

Content Director Mark J. Pescatore, Ph.D. mark.pescatore@futurenet.com Senior Content Manager Wayne Cavadi Contributors James Careless, Joseph D. Cornwall, Matt Czyzweski, David J. Danto, Chuck Gloman, Jennifer Guhl, Carolyn Heinze Art Editors Rob Crossland, Efrain Hernandez-Mendoza Production Managers Nicole Schilling, Heather Tatrow A DV E R T I S I N G S A L E S

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

To subscribe, change your address, or check on your current account status, go to avnetwork.com and click on About Us, email futureplc@computerfulfillment. com, call 888-266-5828, or write P.O. Box 1051, Lowell, MA 01853.

LICENSING/REPRINTS/PERMISSIONS

SCN is available for licensing. Contact the Licensing team to discuss partnership opportunities.

Head of Print Licensing Rachel Shaw licensing@futurenet.com M A N AG E M E N T

SVP, MD, B2B Amanda Darman-Allen VP, Global Head of Content, B2B Carmel King MD, Content, AV Anthony Savona VP, Head of US Sales, B2B Tom Sikes Managing VP of Sales, B2B Tech Adam Goldstein VP, Global Head of Strategy & Ops, B2B Allison Markert VP, Product & Marketing, B2B Scott Lowe Head of Production US & UK Mark Constance Head of Design, B2B Nicole Cobban FUTURE US, INC.

130 West 42nd Street, 7th Floor New York, NY 10036

operations.

When it came to my ring, it was still functional; it just needed some attention.

Some equipment is like that. Maybe you have a piece of gear that has outlived its usefulness as a primary or go-to solution. But with a little ingenuity, it can have a second life as a secondary tool. For example, that old PTZ camera might work quite nicely living out the rest of its days as a weather cam or shooting the morning newscast at the local middle school.

Then there are products like that curved monitor. I can’t convert my standard widescreen monitor into a curved form factor—if I decide to upgrade, the old monitor simply has to go (and likely won’t find a new home). This may not be an industrychanging decision, but it’s a big deal for my little office. Imagine how a disruptive hardware change like this scales up for an entire organization.

The trick is determining which products you have that can be reallocated to new tasks and which ones are destined for the recycling facility. There’s no stopping technological progress, and equipment upgrades are inevitable, but it’s important that the Pro AV industry continues to be mindful of the importance of sustainability.

Before you toss that old gear, see if there’s a reasonable path toward continued use.

And if it’s truly end-of-life, please find a way to dispose of it responsibly.

4

SCN // August 2024 // avnetwork.com

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.

DN-300 Series

The Ultimate AVoIP Platform

The Future of AV Distribution is Here The DisplayNet DN-300 Series delivers an unprecedented level of AVoIP performance, versatility and reliability— at a price point that defines a new industry benchmark for value. Based on the latest SDVoE technology, the DN-300 Series provides 4K/60 (4:4:4) video distribution with limitless scalability, zero-frame latency and zero image artifacts.

These units offer unique features that provide system designers with exceptional versatility: 

Switchable Transmitter / Receiver operation



PoE+ support



Dual (copper / fiber) network interfaces



Long Range: 100 meters (copper), 30KM (optical)

 

Auxiliary H.264/5 video output streams



Silent, fanless operation  DN-300H: USB HID device instant switching

 Versatile KVM Routing Powerful network security features  DN-300: full-bandwidth USB 2.0 routing

DisplayNet also provides software-defined MultiViewer and Advanced Video Wall engines that power a wide range of applications without the expense and complexity of ancillary products. A highly intuitive web-based UI and API greatly simplifies setup and installation, as well as integration into third-party control systems.

Contact us today to see how DisplayNet can move your next AV system into the future.

ZERO COMPROMISE – INFINITE POSSIBILITIES Powered by sales@dvigear.com (888) 463-9927 www.displaynet.com © 2024 DVIGear, Inc.

NEWS

Grass Valley, Diversified Sign Strategic Partnership

I

n July, Grass Valley announced a multimillion-

“We are excited to partner with Grass Valley, a

dollar strategic partnership agreement with

leader in live solutions technology. Together, we

Diversified. Known for its live production solu-

will broaden our reach and enhance our ability to

tions, Grass Valley will leverage Diversified’s exten-

deliver cutting-edge, integrated solutions that

sive integration and services expertise to enhance

meet the complex needs of our clients in the media

its offerings and deliver comprehensive solutions

and entertainment industry,” said Steve

1 SOUND loudspeakers are helping to set the mood

Stubelt, SVP of sales, media, and

at Indiana’s new Terre Haute Casino Resort. The

entertainment at Diversified.

central bar on the gaming floor is surrounded by a

to broadcasters, content creators, and media organizations.

Highlights of the partnership include

“This agreement with Diversified

enhanced product integration and solutions

illustrates Grass Valley’s commitment to

Contour CT28s three-way loudspeakers were paired

delivery, innovative joint ventures,

support client needs via our trusted

with compact SUB310 subwoofers and deployed in

comprehensive customer service, and training

integration and reseller partners,” added

the ceiling. Consulting and engineering firm NV5

and development programs. Plus, by combining

Tim Banks, chief revenue officer at Grass

and American Sound and Electronics worked

forces, Grass Valley and Diversified will

Valley. “By combining our industry-

360-degree, dual-sided LED video wall. Two

together to design and install various AV aspects in

expand their global footprints,

leading solutions with Diversified’s

the resort. NV5’s Greg Martin said the 1 SOUND

offering clients around the world

integration expertise, we are poised

speakers are an “ideal match” for the space,

access to advanced media

to deliver unparalleled value and

allowing patrons to have conversations without

innovation to our clients.”

having to compete with the audio system.

technologies and expert support.

Tim Banks

LynTec Acquires Juice Goose

L

Solotech recently opened its new facility in Manchester.

ynTec, a wholly owned subsidiary of Chauvet and manufacturer of electrical power control solutions, has acquired Juice Goose, which

manufactures and distributes electric power distribution, conditioning, and control equipment.

Founded in 1983, Juice Goose has developed a reputation as a reliable supplier of electric power management products for the U.S. Pro AV market.

“We are incredibly excited to continue our legacy with LynTec and Chauvet brands, providing our customers with the same power management solutions they have relied on for years and now with LynTec’s leading customer support,” said Peter Cook, CEO, Juice Goose.

“Juice Goose brings another great product line

Solotech Expands Its UK Operations with New Facility

S

olotech has expanded its U.K. operations with

supporting the company’s sales and systems

a new facility in Manchester. The strategic

integration plans. The facility also boasts a range of

expansion follows a series of recent moves

features that demonstrate Solotech’s commitment to

across Solotech, including new premises in Nashville

environmental and social governance, including a more

and Las Vegas in 2022, as well as a new U.K. head-

efficient building design and seven EV charging points.

to the Chauvet family of brands, expanding our

quarters at Blythe Valley in Birmingham in 2023.

power solutions portfolio that we began with

Located in Kingsway Business Park, the new

Manchester team and highlights our substantial

LynTec,” said Albert Chauvet, CEO of Chauvet.

Manchester facility will serve as a hub for Solotech’s

growth in the U.K. over the past five years,” said

“The two businesses are highly complementary,

Sales and Systems Integration Division, as well as

Martin Tremblay, president and CEO. “Solotech is

with this partnership providing key resources to

support Live Productions operations. With 76,000

committed to further investments in the U.K. in the

our customers in meeting the full demands of their

square feet of floor space, it features eight truck bays,

coming years, reinforcing our dedication to driving

AVL installations.”

six level loading bays, and a centralized hub for stock

business expansion across both divisions.”

6

SCN // August 2024 // avnetwork.com

“This investment reflects the success of our

NEWS

Time to Unpack: 5 Talking Points from InfoComm 2024

By Wayne Cavadi and Mark J. Pescatore

A

Atlona featured an esports demonstration at its booth.

2

QuickLink’s Rui Ribeiro showed off the new StudioPro video production platform.

Esports is scoring high for Pro AV.

Traditional AV industry products and technologies such

Currently, the news is mixed at best for

as HDMI and HDBaseT don’t offer the same feature set

esports. In May 2023, the New York Times

or ease of use that refined broadcast caliber products do,

reported League Championships Series viewership dropped significantly in 2022 and 2023, which has

so the use of these tools will continue to proliferate.”

Perhaps one of the best examples of convergence is

resulted in reduced advertising support, and

QuickLink, a live production company known for its

professional leagues have struggled to turn a profit.

broadcast solutions that exhibited at InfoComm for the

Yet, according to Statista, the U.S. esports market will

first time this year. Rui Ribeiro, head of sales at

generate more than $1 billion in revenue this year, with

QuickLink, said the corporate world has recognized the

an annual growth rate of more than 14%. And none of

need to create content for internal and external viewers.

these numbers represent the growing esports presence

However, those businesses also recognize the need to

on college campuses or K-12.

increase production qualities while keeping the actual

While professional teams and leagues try to figure

productions simple.

nother InfoComm is in the books, and it

out a bankable business model, manufacturers and

To that end, the company demonstrated its

was filled to the brim with shiny new toys,

integrators continue to develop solutions for better

StudioPro 4K video production platform, which

new exhibitors, and a massive number of

esports competitions and presentations. Atlona

simplifies operation by treating scenes like PowerPoint

attendees enjoying Pro AV’s latest solutions.

showcased some possibilities at its booth, with four

slides (with layers for video, graphics, and effects) and

According to AVIXA, the association that

zones—coach’s station, shoutcaster station, gaming

has and seamless integration with videoconferencing

produces InfoComm, the show attracted 30,271

zone, and spectator video wall—replicating an esports

platforms. The result is a user-friendly interface

verified attendees from 125 countries. Both numbers

environment.

designed to appeal to corporate, education,

were post-pandemic records for the show. AVIXA

The company used the setup to demonstrate its

also reported 71% of non-exhibitor attendees were

OmniStream AV-over-IP and Velocity control systems,

from the Pro AV channel (29% were end users), and

which addressed the need for ultra-fast switching,

either customers or internal audiences,” added Matt

international attendees were almost one-quarter of

multiview processing, touchscreen control, and more

Morgan, business development manager, corporate,

total attendance (23%). There were also 833

for live gaming environments. The video wall in the

Ross Video. “Corporate communications has become

exhibitors across the Central and West Halls (as well

booth was supplied by Just Video Walls.

very important. People want more control now.” That

as in demo rooms in parts of the North Hall not

government, and house of worship markets.

“There’s a lot more communications outwardly to

Of course, what fun is showcasing esports solutions

control can be seen in more polished productions and

currently under renovation) of the Las Vegas

without some competition? InfoComm Esports Live 2.0

messaging, and Morgan said the technology to create

Convention Center.

returned for a second year, allowing attendees to

better content is within reach economically for

Now that the industry has returned from its

experience esports with live match play competitions,

corporate AV.

biennial Vegas road trip, there’s a lot to unpack. Here

presentations and technologies, event coverage from

are a handful of talking points—ranging from

the Shoutcast Stage, and a look at the production

technology trends to world-class venues—from

behind esports. Elsewhere, PPDS and Draper were

InfoComm 2024.

among a few that had racecar simulators, bringing the

1

high-speed experience to the show floor.

but instead of just showing what we can do with it

3

today, InfoComm provided a platform for the industry

make sure they are up to speed. For example, Jesse

to discuss where the technology is headed.

Foster, VP of products and western sales for MultiDyne,

AI is everywhere.

We have previously discussed that artificial intelligence has become almost ordinary in some

product areas. AI is here and Pro AV is embracing it—

As we highlighted last month, discussions started

The broadcast convergence continues.

The crossover between broadcast and Pro AV is

getting more significant, and it’s time for integrators to

increasing the sophistication of their internally

to the future of AV and AI in his opening keynote,

produced media communications, which has inevitably

“Everything Has Changed: AV’s Infinite Potential in

resulted in the adoption of established and emerging

an Exponential Age.” There was also talk about AI in

broadcast quality workflows and equipment.

Camera Adapter products adapt the latest camera

provides to enhance digital signage. And perhaps you

technology from vendors like Sony and ARRI into the

met AVA on the InfoComm app. The new Ask AVA

broadcast workflow,” Foster explained. “The workflow

virtual assistant, conveniently positioned on the

provides SMPTE standard-compliant signals such as

landing page, provided a comprehensive guide to the

12G-SDI, which can carry 4K 60fps video with 16

show floor.

high-quality audio channels over a single cable.

SCN // August 2024 // avnetwork.com

projection is expected to lose market share, dropping about 1% of revenue over the next five years. Of course, projectors should be a $16 billion part of the industry in 2024, so they aren’t exactly on life support. In fact, projection mapping applications continue to breathe new life into this established market segment.

“In one of MultiDyne’s use cases, SilverBack Fiber

understanding how to use the data and information it

8

Recent AVIXA research indicates that video

said that corporate enterprise customers have been

right off the bat, as QSC | Q-SYS CEO Joe Pham looked

digital signage—not only implementing AI but

4

Projection mapping is still very cool.

Panasonic Connect brought miniature versions of historic buildings to illustrate its projection mapping capabilities.

NEWS latest work on illumination festivals, all of which use

imagery is nothing short of spectacular and the audio

its projectors to turn historic buildings into canvases

might even be better. Which makes you wonder if it’s a

for local artists. Panasonic Connect brought a

good spot for a concert ...

miniature version to InfoComm and lit up the show for attendees.

Projection mapping, such as this example from Epson, was among the demos catching the attention of InfoComm attendees.

And Epson had its own mini-mapping display,

Wayne, who previously detailed his January visit in January to see “Postcard from Earth,” went back later in the week to see Dead and Company: Let me give

with a recreation of the Carter Green Palladium, a

you my quick takeaway: If your favorite band is playing in

concert hall in Carmel, IN. The actual projection

the Vegas Sphere, drop what you’re doing and go see them.

system is powered by 12 Epson EB-PU2220B projectors

If your favorite band is not playing in the Vegas Sphere,

look at stunning visuals, but it can also bring them

housed in Tempest Cyclone outdoor projector

stop what you’re doing and go see someone. I don’t like to

into stunning visuals. On Day 1 of InfoComm, we

enclosures and controlled via MapMapper software.

use words that are thrown around too loosely in

Projection mapping not only allows spectators to

brought visitors into different worlds, like a lava river

5

or bubble world, all while remaining in the LVCC.

the Pro AV community to “An Evening at Sphere.”

Plus, tracking technology made water and lava move

The event included access to the venue’s interactive

with the visitors as they walked across the floor or

experiences as well as a seat for Postcard from Earth, a

wiped their hands across the wall.

50-minute motion picture designed to showcase the

highlighted five booths, one of which saw Christie team up with THEORIZ and Augmenta for an aweinspiring experience. Christie 4K13-HS 1DLP projectors and its Pandoras Box software

Christie also had a more subtle projection display, a unique collaboration between Gabriel Schama Studios and Limelight Art. A Christie HS Series laser

Vegas Sphere is the real deal.

concert-going experience.

On June 11, the day before the exhibit hall opened, InfoComm and presenting sponsor

AVI Systems welcomed more than 2,600 members of

AV technologies SCN has been reporting on for more than a year.

So, did the Vegas Sphere live up to the hype? From

projector was used to map images onto “Cathedral of

Mark, who attended the event: Absolutely. I thought

Thieves,” an intricate sculpture that features 13 layers

was a great way to kick off InfoComm 2024. Granted, the

of laser-cut wood.

barely-there plot of the film won’t exactly dazzle you, but

We have covered some of Panasonic Connect’s

journalistic efforts, but the Sphere has revolutionized the

the evening was about the experience, not the story. The

InfoComm and AVI Systems welcomed attendees to “An Evening at Sphere.”

avnetwork.com // August 2024 // SCN

9

NEWS

T

Future's Adam Goldstein, managing VP of sales, B2B Tech, presented SCN Installation Product Awards to winners at a ceremony during InfoComm.

SCN Honors Installation Product Awards Winners at InfoComm 2024 he winners of SCN Installation Product Awards 2024 were revealed at a ceremony during InfoComm at the Las

Vegas Convention Center. Winning products were recognized across 11 categories, including a new category, Most Innovative Camera.

“Every year, the SCN Installation Product Awards provide an opportunity to recognize innovation in the Pro AV industry,” said Mark J. Pescatore, content director, Systems Contractor News. “It’s always nice to see enthusiasm about new products from so many different categories. We should never take product development for granted, especially in an industry that is seemingly in a constant state of change.

Congratulations to all our 2024 winners.”

And the winners are:

Most Innovative App

• Sony Electronics: Device Management Platform (DMP)

Most Innovative Audio Hardware

• AtlasIED: Aimline Series ALX-D • Blaze Audio: CBL528 • Shure: Microflex Advance MXA901 Conferencing Ceiling Array Microphone

Most Innovative AV Installation Accessory

• BZBGEAR: BG-AVTPG-MINI-G2 | 8K HDMI 2.1 Test Pattern Generator

• Chief, a brand of Legrand | AV: Tempo Flat

Most Innovative Digital Signage Product

• 22Miles: AI Solutions • BrightSign: XT5 • ViewSonic: ViewSonic LDS135-153 Direct View LED Display Solution Kit

Most Innovative Emerging Technology

• Listen Technologies: ListenWIFI • Q-SYS: VisionSuite • Sony Electronics: ELF-SR2 Spatial Reality Display

Most Innovative Sustainable Product Strategy

• LED Studio: EDGE Series • PPDS: Philips Signage 3650 Series EcoDesign QE-Line

Most Innovative Videoconferencing Product

• Samsung Electronics: Interactive Display WAD Series

• Vaddio, a brand of Legrand | AV: Venture VideoBAR + TableMIC

Most Innovative Video Display

• Avocor: X Series • MAXHUB: Raptor LX Series/LX165V07 • Planar: DirectLight Pro Series

Most Innovative Video Projection Solution

Panel In-Wall Mount System

• Epson America: EB-PQ2010B 10,000-Lumen 4K

Matrix with Multiview

• LG Business Solutions USA: ProBeam BU53RG

• Vanco International: EVMX42MV 4K 4x2 HDMI Most Innovative Camera

• BirdDog: X1 Ultra • Crestron Electronics: Crestron 1 Beyond i-Series • JVC Professional Video: KY-PZ540 CONNECTED CAM PTZ Camera

Most Innovative Collaboration Product

• Atlona: AT-OME-CS31-SA • Sennheiser: TeamConnect Ceiling Medium • WolfVision: Cynap Videobar

3LCD Laser Projector Laser Projector

• Optoma Technology: ZU607TST Short-Throw WUXGA Laser Projector Each of the nominated products were submitted by their respective manufacturers. Winners were chosen by industry professionals through a ballot accessed through avnetwork.com. Up to three winners were selected in each category, based on the number of entries. The nominated product must have first shipped between January 1, 2023, and May 10, 2024. Products that won in last year’s awards program were not eligible in any category this year.

10

SCN // August 2024 // avnetwork.com

NEWS

Planar Powers Virtual Production for Resolution Studios

L

Planar Venue Pro VX Series LED displays bring virtual production to life for Resolution Studios.

ocated on Chicago’s Near West Side,

quick-lock system for securing cabinets together

to nine virtual locations a day by building a curved

Resolution Productions Group’s Resolution

more efficiently. “Since we frequently reconfigure the

LED video wall on one side of our main studio and a

Studios specializes in virtual production. The

physical design of the LED video walls, we pay close

flat LED video wall on the other,” Freese explained.

86,000-square-foot production complex features

attention to the product details—such as the way tiles

“As we shoot on one video wall, a crew will prepare

four premier stages, with approximately 70% of

interlock or how the video wall is ground-supported,”

the other. Then, we swing our camera around and do it

the studio’s productions being TV commercial

Freese explained. “In our testing of other products,

vice versa. It’s a very efficient way to shoot several

work and the rest dedicated to feature films and

we found that many had good image quality, but the

locations in a really short amount of time.”

episodic projects.

mechanics of setting up were just too cumbersome.”

The mechanical properties of the Planar Venue

When fully assembled, the studio’s complete

Pro VX Series were not the only driving factor for its

create customized LED video wall backdrops

supply of Planar Venue Pro VX Series LED displays

selection. Resolution’s investment was also based on

according to the unique requirements of each project.

forms a curved, 80x14-foot LED video wall. However,

visual performance for meeting the on-camera

To support this flexibility, the studio utilizes 400

it’s not uncommon for the LED video wall to be set up

demands of VP and extended reality.

Planar Venue Pro VX Series indoor LED video wall

in different sizes or broken up into multiple

displays with a 1.9mm pixel pitch.

formations. “It’s constantly changing,” Freese said.

manufacturers and the benefits of the Planar Venue

The studio’s approach to virtual production is to

“We auditioned LED displays from all of the major

“We definitely have common configurations that we

Pro VX Series were readily apparent,” Freese said.

Resolution Productions Group, has a time-tested

use over and over, but certain shoots require specific

“And we really liked what Planar was doing in VP,

philosophy for operating a successful VP studio: LED

layouts. For instance, the way we will set up an LED

because it seems like a lot of LED display products are

volume layouts should be designed on a shoot-to-

video wall for a car process shot is completely

not designed for this use.”

shoot basis. “We are very adamant that a VP studio

different than what we would do for a narrative.”

Todd Freese, SVP and chief technology officer with

According to Freese, the Planar Venue Pro VX Series was the leader in terms of color imagery, which

should not have permanently installed LED,” he said.

With the deployment versatility of the Planar

“I don’t ever want to have the conversation of trying

Venue Pro VX Series, Resolution Studios can also

he characterized as the single most important

to convince a director to shoehorn their creative into a

develop tailored strategies for best utilizing the LED

element. Second, Freese emphasized the off-axis

permanent installation that may not be right.”

displays across a shoot, optimizing production

image quality. Another factor included reflectivity;

schedules. An example includes an episodic series

with a unique mask and high contrast ratios, Planar

primarily shot in the studio’s LED volume.

LED video walls help to prevent reflections in virtual

Designed for the unique demands of temporary LED video wall setups, the Planar Venue Pro VX Series features magnetically attachable cabinets and a

“Near the end of the production, we will shoot up

production applications.

Electro-Voice Provides Sound Solution for Funeral Home

A

s one of the largest funeral homes, cemeter-

expectations,” said Troy Canton, president

ies, and on-site crematories in the south-

of AxioTech Solutions. “When they said

west, Restland features multiple chapels, all

one loudspeaker could cover the entire

of which are receiving upgraded sound reinforcement

chapel and make it sound great, I was

with Electro-Voice loudspeakers powered by Dyna-

skeptical. Call me converted. I wouldn’t

cord amplifiers.

choose anything else.”

The funeral home tapped AxioTech Solutions in

The chapel is a rectangular, 100x60-

Fort Worth, TX, to design and install new audio and

foot space that’s constructed mostly in

video control systems, including inside the main

concrete—an extremely challenging

chapel, which was equipped with one EVC-1122-VI

acoustic environment. The amplifier is rack-mounted

loudspeaker. The advantage of the VI approach is that

loudspeaker powered by a Dynacord C1300FDi

in an adjacent AV room along with a mixer, video

there is reduced variation in sound level from the

amplifier. Designed as a compact problem-solver

matrix switch, and other video sources that feed

front to the back of the audience, compared to typical

for acoustically challenging spaces, the EVC-

displays in the facility.

point-source solutions.

1122-VI features EV’s variable-intensity

The EVC-1122-VI is center-ceiling mounted in

A single Electro-Voice loudspeaker is delivering audio to a challenging chapel environment.

“I walked the room after it was installed and the

configuration to precisely address rectangular areas

the front of the chapel. The downward angle of the

coverage was incredible,” adds Canton. “It blanketed

with exceptional horizontal/vertical directivity

VI’s front-facing 12-inch woofer and the

the room. There was no bounce-back from the

control and wide bandwidth.

asymmetrical waveguide work together to evenly

walls—nothing. It sounded great. I can’t wait to put it

cover a rectangular audience area with a single

to work in the other chapels.”

“This loudspeaker more than exceeded my

12

SCN // August 2024 // avnetwork.com

NEWS visual information as required.

A KVM-over-IP backbone offers additional benefits. Before, only one dispatcher station could see the fire alarm system. With RGB’s XtendPoint KVM system, UCSD expanded access to the fire alarm system at each operator’s station.

“The flexibility of the RGB system also allowed UCSD dispatchers to leverage video wall capabilities,” Williams added. “They can easily share critical information and task lists with colleagues. A more collaborative environment has facilitated communication and coordination among dispatchers, RGB Spectrum’s XtendPoint solution has helped to improve the UCSD Police Department’s dispatch operations.

ensuring that tasks are efficiently managed and prioritized during high-stress situations. We can use the RGB system to throw things up on the wall so

RGB Spectrum Helps UC San Diego Police Improve Dispatch

T

other dispatchers can see what’s happening and interact as needed.”

The impact of XtendPoint KVM-over-IP on UCSD’s dispatch operations has been profound. UCSD witnessed significant improvements in efficiency, ergonomics, and situational awareness. Efficiency

he University of California San Diego

that, it’s slowing their workflow down,” recalled

soared as dispatchers seamlessly controlled multiple

(UCSD) Police Department is a full-fledged

Williams. “And up to 25% of our operators were

systems from a single interface. Ergonomic issues

law enforcement agency responsible for

suffering from repetitive movement and neck injuries,

were mitigated and dispatcher morale improved,

patrolling, investigating, and preventing crime

resulting in downtime and light duty restrictions. We

enabling dispatchers to respond more effectively to

within its jurisdiction. Spanning more than 1,200

figured there had to be a better solution.”

emergencies.

acres and 900 buildings, UCSD’s campus pres-

UCSD wanted a seamless KVM solution that

ents unique challenges for law enforcement. The

integrated multiple systems over IP under a unified

leverage RGB Spectrum’s technology further to

department’s Communications Division serves as

interface. It explored various options before

enhance operations. For example, in the event of a

the nerve center, coordinating responses to emer-

discovering RGB Spectrum’s XtendPoint solution,

building evacuation or siege, UCSD could almost

gencies, managing communications, and ensuring

which provides local and remote access to source

immediately establish a satellite facility. UCSD also

coordination among officers.

computers, consolidates separate monitors into

aims to extend the reach of its dispatch operations by

multi-view displays, and unifies control for more

providing field personnel with access to real-time

streamlined operation and enhanced efficiency.

information. By equipping mobile units with RGB’s

With more than two decades of experience, Sgt. Garrett Williams oversees the Communications Division. Williams understands the critical role

For UCSD, the key selling point was providing a

Looking ahead, UCSD sees opportunities to

AV-over-IP systems via smartphones, police officers

technology can play in public safety. He explained

solution to the ergonomic challenges plaguing

could receive critical updates and better collaborate

that before partnering with RGB Spectrum, UCSD

dispatchers by minimizing the need for multiple

with dispatchers to respond to incidents.

faced significant obstacles in its dispatch operations,

keyboards and mice. Replacing monitor clutter was

“If you think of the unthinkable, like a school

as dispatchers juggled multiple computers

another plus. With the XtendPoint solution, each

shooting, it would be ideal to share live coverage of

(computer aided dispatch, radio, and phone), each

monitor can handle up to four computer signals.

what’s happening, detailed building schematics,

requiring separate keyboards and mice.

Plus, each operator can have customized display

and info on weapons the assailant might be using.

viewing, even in a multi-shift operation.

Who doesn’t want to know what’s potentially

moving side to side to look from one to the other and

“Three separate mice and operators constantly

Dispatchers can now access live video feeds and

happening behind closed doors before walking in?”

then having to move their hands back and forth

additional mission-critical systems directly within

Williams said. “It’s situational awareness on a

between control devices—anytime they have to do

one system interface, providing them with real-time

whole new level.”

Kramer AV Acquires Ashton Bentley

K

ramer has acquired Ashton Bentley, a U.K.-

complete meeting room solutions for enterprises in

Bentley team brings will be an outstanding addition to

based provider of collaboration spaces. The

all markets.

the Kramer family.”

acquisition is a yet another step in Kramer’s

“This acquisition is another milestone in our

three-year strategy, elevating its capabilities and

investment and commitment to the unified

offerings in the UCC domain.

communication and collaboration ecosystem,” said

The strategic move allows Kramer to deliver a

Gilad Yron, CEO of Kramer. “The Ashton Bentley

comprehensive AV experience, encompassing a

‘out-of-the-box’ solution, alongside Kramer’s broad

coherent, end-to-end approach to hybrid

portfolio, offers a unique, fully integrated solution to

conferencing—from AV-enabled meeting room

further enhance the hybrid meeting experience. Any

furniture to display mounts—alongside high-quality

acquisition is about the people. I’m convinced that

AV technology products. Kramer can now offer

the cultural fit, enthusiasm, and passion the Ashton

14

SCN // August 2024 // avnetwork.com

NEWS

College of Southern Nevada Upgrades Audio with SSL

T

he College of Southern Nevada has installed a Solid State Logic Duality Fuse SuperAnalogue console in the main control

moved the AWS 900 to another room.

While other mixing consoles offer similar functionality, Jacobson gravitated toward SSL and A new Solid State Logic Duality Fuse SuperAnalogue console has been installed in CSN’s main control room.

room at the Recording Studio Facilities at its North

the Duality Fuse because he said it sounds accurate.

Las Vegas Campus. The 48-channel console, which

“It’s really about the quality of the components, and

came online for the Fall 2023 semester, is being used

how good the mic preamps are,” he added. “I also

to instruct students enrolled in the Audio Recording

like the dedicated DAW controls and the fact that it

Technology Program.

will work with any DAW, and with either a Windows

one-knob-per-function design philosophy. That

PC or a Macintosh.”

enables the college’s students to take what they have

According to John Jacobson, program director, CSN offers a 30-credit Certificate of Achievement in

Jacobson had his first opportunity to use the new

Music Business and Technology as part of the music

SSL Duality console on a series of commercial tracking

program within the Department of Fine Arts. The

dates shortly before the new semester started,

facility’s main control room was previously occupied

recording a classic organ trio and, for a documentary

analog mixing console and it’s designed in a

by an SSL AWS 900 console that was installed in 2005.

project, eight horn players, eight singers, and a

traditional, easy to understand way. Students pick

rhythm section. He leans toward an “old school”

up on it really fast,” he explained. “People in the

accommodate a 50-piece orchestra, and a large iso

approach to recording by combining great

industry might be using a Duality or something else,

room, there are 35 analog microphone lines to the

microphones, careful mic placement, and first-rate

and a lot of recording studios are doing everything

main control room, with additional lines available on

musicians and instruments—and appreciates the

in-the-box. We could have done that, but it made

a Dante network. The problem: “Our AWS only has 24

ability to define the input path on the Duality Fuse.

more sense to do this. We can integrate old

Between the main studio, which can

inputs,” Jacobson said. So, when funding became available, Jacobson ordered the Duality Fuse and

Jacobson said the Duality Fuse console is ideal for an educational environment, because it follows a

learned on the Duality Fuse and work on any mixing console anywhere.

“It has its digital features but it’s primarily an

equipment, new equipment, and anything in between.”

TEAMCONNECT BAR SOLUTIONS

Flexibility that empowers.

Part of the Sennheiser TeamConnect Family, the TeamConnect Bar Solutions are the most feature-rich, all-in-one conferencing devices in their class.

With options for small (TeamConnect Bar S) and mid-sized (TeamConnect Bar M) meeting and collaboration spaces, these award-winning, all-in-one conferencing devices are designed to meet modern meeting demands. sennheiser.com

avnetwork.com // August 2024 // SCN

15

NEWS

ASG Expands SoftwareCTI Adds Defined Workflow Solutions Fourth Texas with Virtual Truck Location

A

dvanced Systems Group has launched

“It’s removing the barriers imposed by location-

Virtual Truck, a new solution in cloud-based

bound, costly, legacy hardware.”

remote production. ASG’s first Virtual Truck

Delivering content for customers or private

J

ust weeks after announcing its acquisition of Advanced Systems Integration (ASI) of Burnsville, MN, CTI acquired Digital Technology

is ready for live sports, music, corporate events, and

viewing stations for clients is seamless, requiring no

Solutions (DTS AV) of San Antonio. It is the com-

esports, and leverages the same technology that

additional satellite uplink. Broadcasters and

pany’s 37th U.S. office and its fourth in Texas.

powers ASG’s popular Virtual Production Control

streamers can simultaneously deliver multiple

Room (VPCR), which provides a multi-camera, live

program versions and streaming formats to standard

tremendous reputation in the 20 years they’ve

switch control room environment.

distribution outlets like YouTube, Facebook, or a

fulfilled the AV integration needs of businesses,

With the global accessibility of high-bandwidth IP

“Digital Technology Solutions has built a

CDN. Using software-defined solutions and

government, schools, and houses of worship in and

transmission, on-site cameras feed directly into

virtualized infrastructure, resources can be quickly

around San Antonio,” said John Laughlin, CEO of CTI.

encoders for IP transport into the company’s

spun up or down and configured to meet changing

“Their service-first approach and focus on doing the

integrated cloud solutions. Cloud providers like AWS

production needs without the traditional limitations

right thing make them a perfect match for the

and Google Cloud Platform (GCP) offer robust

of a physical truck.

culture here at CTI.”

compute and storage technologies. And leading

“Our virtual, live production solutions offer

Headquartered in St. Louis, CTI is one of the

industry manufacturers such as Vizrt, Audinate, and

greater flexibility and cost savings than traditional

largest privately held, U.S.-based AV integration and

Grass Valley are facilitating this shift with a wide

on-the-ground broadcast components,” Van Hoy

events providers. Established in 1988, the company

variety of cloud-enabled live production tools.

added. “While we recognize that there are still live

serves customers nationwide as well as worldwide as

events that require physical trucks, we are providing a

a member of the PSNI Global Alliance.

ASG’s first Virtual Truck offering is packaged and ready to roll, leveraging public, private, or hybrid-

cost-effective and flexible alternative solution that

hosted solutions. It features a 44-input, 8 M/E

addresses the needs of live production.”

switcher, plus eight channels of replay, a flexible

In addition to expanding the potential for live

HTML5 or dedicated graphics station, AES67-

production to a wider range of professionals, the

compatible audio, and a multi-channel beltpack and

Virtual Truck reduces the carbon footprint typically

IFB system for on-site communications. Surella, a

associated with live production. Less travel for

technology-focused production services and

crew, less gear shipped, and reduced power

solutions company, is ASG’s first camera and

consumption equates to less carbon emissions.

contribution truck partner, providing bi-coastal HD

“Our software-defined workflows mirror

Audio Video Electronics Acquired

and 4K camera and support vehicles built to

traditional production methods, enabling the use of

Audio Video Electronics, a Midwest provider of audio,

seamlessly integrate on-site with ASG Virtual Trucks.

familiar control surfaces to ensure a smooth and

video, and lighting design integration since 1992, has

intuitive transition for technical artists and operators,”

been acquired by long-time general manager Josh

production democratizing live production and

said Claudia Souza, chief cloud officer, ASG. “We are

Lannan. The development signals an exciting new

opening the field to a new generation of

excited to continue facilitating our industry’s transition

chapter for AVE, reinforcing its dedication to delivering

professionals,” said ASG president Dave Van Hoy.

to software-defined production solutions.”

exceptional design, integration, and support services.

“The Virtual Truck is a great example of cloud

Founded by Stefan Svard in 1992, AVE is known for its commitment to providing high-quality and innovative audio, video, lighting, and control solutions across a wide range of applications. It has built a solid reputation as a trusted partner for houses of worship, government, education, and commercial clients in the Twin Cities and throughout the upper Midwest.

Lannan, who now holds the title of managing director, has been with AVE for more than a decade, and previously worked for more than 15 years in AV services for the hospitality industry. “Having been a part of this company for many years, I have witnessed firsthand the team’s dedication and passion for delivering exceptional service to our clients,” he ASG has launched its cloud-based remote production solution, Virtual Truck.

16

SCN // August 2024 // avnetwork.com

said. “I am eager to lead the company into its next phase of growth while upholding Stefan’s commitment to serving the house of worship market.”

Josh Lannan

NEWS In sum, there wasn’t a clear reason

Pro AV Growth Moderates in June

By Peter Hansen

why the numbers were softer this

June, downshifting just 0.6 points from 57.7 to 57.1.

month. That gives confidence for

This is good news for Pro AV and further evidence that

reversion to the mean next month.

the disappointing AVI-S isn’t a concerning sign of

The stock market is often given more weight as an economic

significant weakness.

In the wider economy, the labor market remains

indicator than it truly deserves. That

tight, with relatively few available workers for the open

said, it does matter: It affects

jobs. One point of emphasis on the current labor

consumer and business confidence,

market: There is very low churn right now. This is likely

and it also influences businesses’

a consequence of the high-turnover pandemic recovery

ability to invest (higher valuation

period that saw many workers quit to find better jobs.

means more ability to finance capital expenditures).

And the stock markets skew positive these days.

T

the AVI-S in June. It stayed nearly steady from May to

U.S. stock performance is particularly strong, with

To share the topline numbers from the latest U.S. report, payrolls added another 206,000 jobs in June.

The one fly in the ointment is the unemployment

he June index is not bad news, but it is a

the S&P 500 regularly setting new record highs in the

rate. At 4.1%, it’s still low, but it has climbed

disappointing result. Growth continued at a

last month. International stocks have also hit record

meaningfully from a bottom of 3.4% in April 2023. The

moderate rate, as the AV Sales Index (AVI-S)

highs recently, with the STOXX 600 hitting records in

accumulation of small increases is increasing

measured 56.6. But it's disappointing because recent

May. Asia stock indexes are more mixed, but this year,

pressure on the Federal Reserve Board to finally

months have been higher, staying around 60.

the Nikkei 225 finally surpassed the 1990s record

transition to lower interest rates (which will likely

level, with the most recent record set in July.

happen in September).

Comments cited a variety of causative factors behind the movements their businesses experienced.

For Pro AV, these numbers are more background/

For some, seasonal factors were critical. For others, it

foundational rather than direct drivers of spend. But

monthly survey of the AVIXA Insights Community, a

was supply issues, skewing toward positive news as

they indicate the strength of the current economy and

research community of industry members that tracks

those challenges eased. Randomness was also cited: For

indicate positive news for the pipeline in coming

business trends in commercial AV. For more

the small companies that compose so much of our

months—and even years—for major projects started

information about joining the AVIXA Insights

industry, it’s normal for months to jump up and down

on the current money wave.

Community, visit www.avixa.org/AVIP.

by meaningful amounts.

The AV Employment Index (AVI-E) outperformed

The Pro AV Business Index report is derived from a

Peter Hansen is an economist at AVIXA.

avnetwork.com // August 2024 // SCN

17

PEOPLE NEWSMAKERS BLAZE AUDIO appointed C&C TECHNOLOGY

ADVANCED SYSTEMS GROUP

NEOTI promoted CHARLES

GROUP to represent the

(ASG) is expanding its audio

MARKOVITS, a highly tenured

company throughout the

system design and integration

senior national sales manager, to

metropolitan New York

team, including new members in

VP of sales and hired MATT

area as well as Northern New Jersey, with the

Los Angeles and Nashville. The

MOSCATO as senior national sales

goal of expanding its presence in the territory.

expanded team serves recording

Rep Report

With a corporate mandate that focuses on

David Arnold

studios, audio post production,

manager. As VP of sales, Markovits Charles Markovits

brings seven years of success with

delivering manageable, hassle-free technology

and screening rooms in Southern

Neoti in the broadcast space to

solutions that drive efficiency and growth, C&C

California and other markets.

other verticals. Bringing 25 years

Technology Group is well positioned for various

The group now includes recently

of experience in sales and

product training and demo sessions, in addition

hired studio designer DAVID

consultancy for technology

to related functions essential to successful

ARNOLD and studio design head

manufacturing companies,

TIM LAWRENCE. Lawrence and

professional audio sales.

Tim Lawrence

Arnold have extensive experience

Moscato is working with Matt Moscato

government, corporate, education,

ORIGIN ACOUSTICS added PHOENIX

working together, including recent ASG projects for

and commercial settings. He held previous roles at

MARKETING GROUP (PMG) as its new sales firm

which they designed and integrated ADR suites and

Panasonic and Digital Projection.

in New York and New Jersey. Origin Acoustics has

pre-mix and mix facilities for several marquee

been working with PMG since 2016, originating in

entertainment facilities.

POINT SOURCE AUDIO has appointed TONY PRICE as its

the Southeast and later expanding into the Middle Atlantic and Florida. PMG will now cover 14 states

L-ACOUSTICS appointed

new chief revenue officer. With

for Origin Acoustics, with an experienced sales

ANNE HAMLETT to chief people

more than three decades of

team of more than a dozen people. PMG

officer. With more than 20 years

experience in revenue growth

represents the Origin family of brands in these

of experience leading teams at

new markets, specializing in lighting design,

L-Acoustics, Hamlett is now

Tony Price

directly leading three

company to help leverage new opportunities and

L-Acoustics divisions: People;

strengthen its position in the global market. Price’s

indoor and outdoor shading, smart automation,

and strategic leadership within the audio sector, Price joined the

audio and video solutions, outdoor living spaces,

Anne Hamlett

and acoustic room treatments.

Legal, Tax, and Compliance; and Education and

career includes key leadership roles at Telex/Bosch,

Scientific Outreach. The teams she leads cultivate

Guitar Center, Bose Professional, Fender. Most

RENKUS-HEINZ has appointed a new

an empower experience for all employees,

recently, he served as as CEO and president, Roland

manufacturer’s representative for Ohio,

strengthen the company’s brand, and create an

U.S., and chief sales officer for Roland North America.

Western Pennsylvania, West Virginia, Indiana,

internal and external education program that

Kentucky, and Michigan in C. L. PUGH AND

boosts the creativity, employability, and resilience

RTI welcomed ERIC RANDT as

ASSOCIATES. The strategic partnership is set

of L-Acoustics team members, partners, and end

national sales director for the

to bolster Renkus-Heinz’s presence in an

users.

United States and Canada. Randt

important regional market, ensuring that both

is charged with overseeing RTI

current and future clients will continue to

Manufacturer’s rep CADEN

receive support and access to Renkus-Heinz’s

TECHINCAL SALES has named

innovative audio solutions.

JAMES GAST to the position of

Eric Randt

president. Gast has been an

integrators across the country. Randt brings a

integral part of Cadon’s team for

history of sales leadership in the custom integration

more than 12 years, serving as a

channel, most recently as VP of sales at Nice North

senior territory manager. With

America, leading the new shade and tube motor

SYNTHAX named MAVRIC to represent the following Pro Audio Brands: RME, Auvitran,

initiatives that grow RTI and Blustream sales with commercial and residential

Appsys, Digigram, Ferrofish, myMix, and Alva in

James Gast

the Southeast territory covering Tennessee,

more than 31 years in the industry, Gast now oversees

division. Earlier positions include director of sales at

Mississippi, Alabama, North Carolina, South

all aspects of the company’s operations and continues

Nortek Control’s smart home market segment,

Carolina, and Georgia.

to drive growth, foster collaboration, and champion

technical sales manager at Savant Systems, and

excellence within the organization.

senior account manager at AVAD.

TVU Welcomes Three New Appointees TVU Networks made three appointments aimed at

Scripps Company, Lozano’s expertise will be

at Adobe, Frame.io, and Sony Electronics. Her

fueling continued customer growth and product

instrumental in expanding TVU’s media supply

experience in both media and SaaS will accelerate

innovation in the Americas and beyond.

chain ecosystem.

the adoption of TVU’s cloud and AI offerings.

Appointed as the new global director of

BRIAN SWANSON joins TVU as director of

and global head of partnerships, SOCRATES

marketing, LAURA PURSLEY oversees go-to-

enterprise sales in North America. With more than

LOZANO is a seasoned media innovator known for

market strategies in the Americas, as well as the

20 years at Starz, affiliate sales and marketing

spearheading newsroom transformations and

Middle East and Africa. Pursley brings insights from

teams, and most recently serving as VP of

technological integrations. With nearly two decades

a dozen years of promoting emerging technologies

distribution, Swanson handles the increasing

of experience, including pivotal roles at The E.W.

for video production and post-production, including

demand for TVU’s solutions.

Coming aboard as VP of solutions for the Americas

18

SCN // August 2024 // avnetwork.com

NEWSMAKERS PEOPLE

Bob Lee

RF VENUE has appointed audio

ensuring exceptional customer experiences at Sphere.

industry veterans BOB LEE and

Working with executive leadership, Allison is charged

RICHARD STOCKTON to its team

with developing and implementing sales and service

of applications engineers. In

strategies aligned with the company’s overall business

their new roles, Lee and Stockton

objectives and strategic direction, including developing

develop and present training and

a corporate conference business for product launches

tutorial material for webinars,

and other events.

Daktronics Announces New Hires

in-person sessions, and online

Richard Stockton

content, covering a wide range of

VISILINK appointed DONNIE

Daktronics has announced three new hires.

topics. They are also working to

GILLIAM as VP of operations. In

DREW LINDAHL joined the Daktronics

expand the capabilities of RF

this role, Gilliam’s focused on

on-prem sales team, TYE DATO is tasked with

Venue’s applications engineering

driving customer satisfaction,

AV channel business development with a focus

staff to provide timely and

cost reduction, and working

on the federal government and military

efficient technical support and

capital improvements. Gilliam

markets, and AUSTIN NELSON is focused on AV

brings extensive experience in

integrator sales in the Pacific Northwest and

consultations for designers and users of wireless mic

Donnie Gilliam

and IEM systems worldwide.

operations and service within high-growth companies. His career includes leading operations at

John Jennings

Canada.

With a background in sports marketing and

JOHN JENNINGS has been

HM Electronics, where he played a pivotal role in the

sales, Lindahl will serve sign companies and

named the new president of

substantial growth the company realized during his

architects as well as end users to implement LED

ROYER LABS after the

tenure. Additionally, he held the position of senior

display solutions in and around the city of

retirement of long-time

director of supply chain and materials at Clear-Com,

Houston. He plans to put his knowledge and

president and co-founder Rick

and more recently served as the VP of global

experience to work to develop relationships and

Perotta on June 1. The company’s

operations at Spectralink Corporation.

provide solutions and make on-site

co-founder and 26-year VP of

demonstrations a priority.

sales and marketing, Jennings assures Royer

NSI INDUSTRIES welcomed

customers and end users a smooth transition in

TROY HAYES as chief human

his career with the company in 2007. He worked

company management. He plans on putting more

resources officer (CHRO). As a

in various Daktronics markets through 2019

new microphone products into the pipeline with a

member of NSI’s executive

before moving into the AV sales position. In his

focus on the high-quality, hand-built approach that

leadership team, Hayes leads

new role, he’s focused on connecting the

has defined Royer products for decades.

the company’s HR function,

Daktronics AV sales team with dvLED installation

with responsibilities that

opportunities directly or through AV integrators.

Troy Hayes

Chandra Allison

Dato is familiar with Daktronics, as he started

SPHERE ENTERTAINMENT

include providing end-to-end HR strategy,

welcomed CHANDRA ALLISON, a

execution, and delivery of processes and operations

and leans on his experience with the company’s

sales and marketing leader with 30

to drive business objectives. Hayes was most

on-prem business unit in the South Central

years of diverse experience in the

recently VP of talent development and corporate HR

region of the United States. He recently accepted

hospitality and events industries,

at AutoNation. Prior to AutoNation, Hayes was a

the position of sales representative promoting

as EVP, sales and service, for

principal consultant at Summit Leadership Partners

dvLED solutions and their various applications to

Sphere. In this new role, Allison is

and spent 17 years at Ingersoll Rand in various

AV integrators and end users.

responsible for driving Sphere’s sales strategies and

Nelson joined the Daktronics team in 2016

leadership positions.

The Education Communication Solution.

Deploy successful signage networks with ease & simplify brand-consistent communications campus-wide, with Carousel Digital Signage. carouselsignage.com

avnetwork.com // August 2024 // SCN

19

PEOPLE EXECUTIVE Q&A

A Decade of Innovation

Richards Reflects on Success of PTZOptics and New SaaS Solution

Paul Richards Position: Chief Revenue Officer Company: PTZOptics

include ensuring the camera is positioned at a height that captures the scene effectively,

By Mark J. Pescatore

development and support team truly set PTZOptics

considering the lighting and background of the

apart from our competitors in more ways than one.

shots, and placing it within a reliable network range if using IP-based features.

SCN: How long have you been with this company,

SCN: How important has NDI become for PTZ

and what are your responsibilities?

users?

SCN: How important is proper mounting for PTZ

Paul Richards: I have been with PTZOptics since its

PR: NDI has become extremely important for PTZ

cameras?

inception, overseeing growth strategies and

camera users. It provides versatility in video

PR: Proper mounting is crucial for PTZ cameras to

innovations that enhance our customers’ experience

workflows by allowing high-quality video streams

ensure stable, precise, and reliable video feeds,

with our cameras and production ecosystem.

over a standard network infrastructure, greatly

especially in environments where the camera needs

simplifying the setup and integration of multiple

to move dynamically or be operated remotely.

cameras.

PTZOptics mounts offer a universal design that works

SCN: How is PTZOptics celebrating its 10th anniversary?

with many Sony, Panasonic, Cisco, Polycom, Vaddio,

PR: PTZOptics celebrated its 10th anniversary by reflecting on a decade of innovations in the broadcast industry, hosting a special event for our user base, and launching new product features like free NDI for Move SE users.

SCN: There are many PTZs in the market—what’s different about PTZOptics?

PR: PTZOptics has a strong connection with our user base. We listen to our customers and—one feature at a time—we build products that solve the specific pain points our customers face. The broadcast and Pro AV industries are going through a period of significant change where the decisions we make as a manufacturer allow us to be a leader during this exciting time. Our award-winning product

We listen to our customers and—one feature at a time—we build products that solve the specific pain points our customers face.

HuddleCamHD, Lumens, and Datavideo cameras.

SCN: PTZOptics is about more than PTZs—what other kinds of cameras do you offer?

PR: Beyond PTZ cameras, PTZOptics offers a range of other camera types, including box cameras and webcams, which cater to different user needs, from broadcast-quality video to high-quality streaming and conferencing solutions. Whether you are setting up a live stream or a videoconference space, PTZOptics cameras can deliver on your project specifications for today and tomorrow.

SCN: With products like SuperJoy, controllers are a point of emphasis for PTZOptics. What inspired

SCN: At this point, is auto-tracking a must-have

this focus?

feature for PTZ cameras?

PR: The focus on controllers like SuperJoy was

PR: While not essential for every user, auto-tracking

inspired by the need for versatile, intuitive control

has become a highly valued feature in education and

solutions to manage multiple cameras, simplify the

event broadcasting, where automatically following

user’s workflow, and enhance production quality. The

speakers or performers significantly enhances the

SuperJoy is a comprehensive solution supporting

viewing experience. PTZOptics PTZ cameras like the

mix-and-match serial and network-based control for

Move SE and Move 4K offer advanced auto-tracking

PTZ cameras of any generation.

with subject selection, instantly changing the subject you want to track in one click.

SCN: Your company is also going way beyond joystick control with Hive. What makes this SaaS

SCN: How popular have PTZ cameras become for

solution unique?

news broadcasts and other studio productions?

PR: Hive is unique as a SaaS solution because it

PR: PTZ cameras have grown significantly in

combines camera control, switching, and recording

popularity for news broadcasts and studio

into a single, easy-to-access and share platform.

productions due to their compact size, remote

The Hive revolutionizes remote camera control and

controllability, and ability to reduce crew

studio management by supporting more than 400

requirements while maintaining high production

camera models, including non-PTZ cameras. This

values.

innovative SaaS solution offers unparalleled camera control and advanced functionality compared to your

PTZOptics now offers free NDI for its Move SE users.

20

SCN // August 2024 // avnetwork.com

SCN: What are some general guidelines for PTZ

standard controller, making it an unmatched choice

camera placement?

for diverse equipment management and real-time

PR: General guidelines for PTZ camera placement

collaborative production.

PEOPLE EXECUTIVE Q&A

Head in the Cloud(s) swXtch.io Co-Founder Kyrazis Touts Advantages of Cloud-Based Workflows

Geeter Kyrazis

non-cloud, bare metal implementations can benefit

Position: Co-Founder

from the features we add. Our software switch and NIC

Company: swXtch.io

architecture provide a flexible overlay network

Overtime: I am a commercial pilot with a flight

SCN: What are your responsibilities with swXtch.io?

architecture that can deploy and span across any of

instructor license and hold parachuting and commercial

Geeter Kyrazis: Since the company was founded in

these scenarios. A business can easily connect a private

automobile racing licenses. I am also an avid sailor.

January 2021, my responsibilities have a core focus of

cloud to a public cloud, connect a private cloud to an

examining the market need for high-performance

on-prem network, or connect an on-prem network to

networking products and services. That includes the

all of them. cloudSwXtch is truly agnostic across

SCN: How do your solutions help integrators?

specific vertical applications in the media and

deployment scenarios. The common goal is to

GK: Integrators want to create solutions for their

entertainment space, and how we expand our roadmap,

implement high-performance network capabilities

customers that align with their specific business

partner systems, and technology integrations to meet

where they don’t exist today.

strategies and technical capabilities. cloudSwXtch

By Mark J. Pescatore

those needs.

is a standards-compliant solution that runs SCN: What is something that potential customers

natively in all the clouds, with no features that are

SCN: What is cloudSwXtch and how is it different

typically get wrong about cloud-based workflows?

proprietary to our network. We function at the layer

from other cloud-based solutions?

GK: There is a tendency to believe that the

three network level where the emphasis is on

GK: cloudSwXtch is a virtual, high-performance

infrastructure people have in place for their

managing and moving packets.

network packet switch that runs as a software load in

on-prem workflows will natively run in the cloud.

the clouds or on prem. It acts like a Cisco or Juniper-

There’s no assurance that they will run the same

integrator-friendly product, because they can

style network switch but is a software-only solution.

way in the cloud, if at all. Public clouds behave very

implement our capabilities inside of their solutions

The intent is to create a network on top of cloud

differently than on-prem data centers, which

in the same way, versus how they would work with a

networks, on-prem networks, or across both that

means without a product like cloudSwXtch there is

more generic switch product. On top of that,

mimics the way one would build a network from scratch

no way to successfully forklift your existing

cloudSwXtch deploys as a software load inside the

with hardware. cloudSwXtch allows networks that don’t

on-prem infrastructure into the cloud. This is one

customer’s cloud tenant, which means that we’re

have certain features such as multicast, lossless UDP

of the main reasons why cloud migrations stall and

not a SaaS. The data never leaves the customer’s

delivery, and standards conversion to exist in public

ambitions change.

estate, which and makes it very easy to convince a

clouds where they were not previously available. We

All of these things make cloudSwXtch a very

customer that this is just another part of their

extend on-prem feature sets to clouds through

SCN: What are the top vertical markets for

ground-to-cloud links and optimize their performance

cloudSwXtch?

across one or more clouds.

GK: We consider media and entertainment our top

SCN: What new initiatives are we likely to see

infrastructure.

industry, and broadcast and AV are two of core business

from your company?

SCN: What are some of the advantages of cloud

verticals that fall within that space. We could look at

GK: We will continue to expand our multi-cloud

production?

this on a more granular level, but most of these

capabilities, which means enriching out lossless

GK: Cloud production relies on the notion that a scalable

businesses are distributing large volumes of video and

packet delivery, to better support video and audio

architecture is valuable, and that you can stand up and

audio flows. We see especially strong opportunity to

transport within and between clouds. We’re also

spin down features and functions at will. That flexibility

support audio flows in the AV space, where remote

really strengthening support for live standards

provides an ability to better control costs, and create,

learning, intercom communications, and embedded

conversion in the cloud throughout our relationship

test, deploy, and scale new capabilities and products

audio applications are in demand. Many of these audio

with Cinnafilm and their Tachyon Live solution. We

quickly. Cloud journeys are generally driven by a

flows are dependent on the networking features that we

can deploy that on-prem today, but we’re going to

business’s current requirements and goals, as well as by

add, specifically multicast but also Precision Time

productize that into a more self-contained package,

the company’s internal IT ambitions and capabilities.

Protocol (PTP) synchronization and lossless UDP for

potentially using deployed clouds like Azure Stack.

The reason that clouds are growing so fast is because

guaranteed packet delivery.

We will also add new network compute capabilities

they offer an IT infrastructure for companies that don’t

involving AI over the coming months.

want to make huge investments in their own

SCN: Can you tell us about your partner program?

infrastructure that might become obsolete or hard to

GK: We launched our Federated Partner Program at

SCN: What's next for Pro AV?

manage.

the NAB Show in April, which brings technology

GK: As with all industries, Pro AV benefits from

partners, systems integrators, and public clouds

using the public clouds as distribution source for

SCN: Are your solutions designed for public or

together with swXtch.io to help customers bring

their audio and video traffic. That includes saving a

private cloud—or maybe your own cloud?

their on-prem networks to the cloud. As the

standard way to implement a remote learning

GK: We offer software solutions that run on top of all the

network switch, cloudSwXtch serves as an ideal core

system or a teleconferencing system, for example.

different virtualization layers defined as being cloud.

infrastructure to support reliable, scalable, end-to-

The ability to use the clouds and other networks as

Each public cloud has its unique way of exposing itself to

end cloud networking ecosystems that helps each

the transport vehicle with as few gaps or limitations

customers. Anyone that builds a private cloud would

partner realize the full potential of their solutions

as possible will bring enormous benefits to how

have to have similar things that they do, and even

in the cloud.

public and private organizations operate.

22

SCN // August 2024 // avnetwork.com

BUSINESS VIRTUAL PRODUCTION

High Marks for New Studio BrandStar Helps FAU Get Immersed in Virtual Production

Under Development As an integrated production and strategic marketing company, BrandStar’s roster of offerings are similar to a full-service advertising agency, but “with a twist,” as its marketing literature declares. Through its partnership with Lifetime, it has six original television series including The Balancing Act, a morning show co-hosted

by Montel Williams and Olga Villaverde that is in its 20th season; home improvement show Designing Spaces; and Military Makeover, a home renovation show focused

By Carolyn Heinze

F

School of Communication & Multimedia Studies,

on veterans (also hosted by Williams). The company

explained that the department has three main degree

also executes advertising and marketing projects for

tracks: Communications Studies, Film and Media,

clients such as Amazon, Ford, Google, The Home Depot,

lorida Atlantic University’s School of

and Multimedia Journalism. The school also offers

Toyota, Walmart, and many others.

Communication & Multimedia Studies in

courses in animation and gaming, sports

Boca Raton, FL, is home to a new virtual

broadcasting, and public relations. Initially, the

Alfieri, BrandStar founder and CEO. “We’re always

production studio designed to develop the

facility will house FAU’s students in animation, film,

thinking about what are the greatest and latest

next generation of media and entertainment

gaming, and media. However, as the school’s

technologies and advancements in storytelling that

professionals. BrandStar, an integrated production

programs evolve, Mills said other departments—

we can leverage to tell amazing stories and do

and strategic marketing company headquartered in

such as sports broadcasting and even theater—will

amazing productions—and do that in a highly

nearby Deerfield Beach, FL, donated and deployed

be able to take advantage of the technology.

cost-efficient way?”

an LED Volume Wall along with ICVFX (in-camera

BrandStar Studios @ Florida Atlantic also has the

“The hub of that is production,” explained Mark

The firm has five studios throughout southern

virtual production) systems driven by Unreal Engine

potential to become a revenue generator for the

Florida, including one at Lynn University in Boca Raton

3D graphics and gaming software into a retrofitted

university by offering virtual production services to

and another in Miami, through a partnership with

television studio in the university’s Dorothy L.

businesses and organizations in the community. This

broadcasting and production company Mediapro.

Schmidt College of Arts & Letters.

would not only allow the school to assist its students

Alfieri said the main driver behind BrandStar’s

financially, but it also affords them the opportunity to

donation to FAU is a combination of community and

name BrandStar Studios @ Florida Atlantic. In

gain some real-world production experience. “If our

new talent development.

conjunction with the technology donation, BrandStar is

students can do this and get paid to do it—and then

“What I’ve noticed over the last couple of decades is

providing advisory and training services to FAU staff

have the rest of the revenue go back into things like

you have a lot of awesome schools here in South Florida.

and faculty, as well as internship and mentorship

scholarship money—that will be incredible because

People go to school here, and then in order to get

opportunities for students.

part of our mission is ensuring that we can support our

work—especially in the entertainment and production

students,” Mills said.

space—they have to go to California or New York,”

The new facility, which opened in March, bears the

Carol Bishop Mills, Ph.D., director of FAU’s

Alfieri explained. “They’re training them and then shipping them out. That’s not great for Florida.”

Through its partnerships with higher education institutions, BrandStar can contribute to keeping production talent in the state while simultaneously developing its own pipeline of employees. The company has a significant year-round internship program, and many interns continue on as full-time employees once they’ve graduated.

“If we get a chance to train them and develop them while they’re going to school, they’re fully equipped in a practical, experiential work environment—they actually see [the technology] at play,” Alfieri added. “[It creates] a competitive advantage, not only for ourselves but for these students.”

Mixed Reality Like many production professionals, Alfieri first became interested in virtual production after watching The Mandalorian. The prospect of being able to shoot without having to invest in filming on location presented a more creative, cost-effective way to approach production. He began researching how he could incorporate this tech into BrandStar’s facilities.

After running the numbers, Alfieri decided that it In March, FAU celebrated the opening of the new BrandStar Studios @ Florida Atlantic.

24

SCN // August 2024 // avnetwork.com

made more sense for his company to build its own LED Volume Wall. Leveraging his relationships with other

VIRTUAL PRODUCTION BUSINESS

production veterans, they visited the factory in China

adjustments while shooting. “It becomes much more

that eventually constructed the wall.

of a collaboration between production and post-

“Our first wall was 1.9mm,” he recalled. “That

production,” Alfieri said. “By the time you’ve got it to

allowed us to stand within six feet of the wall—because

the finishing team you’re doing color correction and

we didn’t have a big stage—and still get photorealism.”

maybe putting some additional graphics in, and then

For in-camera motion tracking, BrandStar

you’re ready to ship it out.”

partnered with London-based virtual production

For a project like this to succeed, Mills emphasized

technology developer Mo-Sys. “They built a plug-in for

the need for staff and faculty to make the effort to

the Unreal Engine software, so the gaming engine is

learn the technology well enough to be able to teach it

connected to the motion tracking,” Alfieri explained.

“Then that software connects to what we call a Brain Bar

to students. “It is a significant time and skill From left, Carol Bishop Mills and Mark Alfieri

that has the Unreal Engine up, the wall up, and connects

investment for faculty or staff,” she said. “You have to know that they are committed, because if you don’t,

the physical cameras that we’re filming with, with the

environments from scratch, but Alfieri said

then that equipment is just going to sit there and never

virtual cameras in Unreal Engine.”

sometimes you just “grab something and customize

get used.”

Each camera lens, both physical and virtual, is matched to create a three-dimensional perspective. At

it, and now it’s original to you.”

Mills relayed that partnerships like the one FAU enjoys with BrandStar enable both higher education

the same time, the technology will accommodate real

New Workflows

scenic elements or props, such as physical chairs.

For BrandStar Studios @ Florida Atlantic, BrandStar

generation of professionals, one that is ready to hit the

has applied a similar approach as it did to its first

ground running straight out of school. “Universities—

going to have props in the midground, behind you, in

virtual production space by having an LED Volume Wall

especially state universities now—are very interested

front of you, and on the wall,” Alfieri said. “But you’re

custom-manufactured and integrating it with the

in these public/private partnerships because it

able to digitize and match the physical props to the

necessary support technology. With this technology,

provides them with the resources they would not

Unreal Engine props so you get an identical match.”

students learn virtual production workflows, which are

otherwise have on limited state budgets,” she

considerably different to traditional production.

explained. “I think that’s a real win-win for everybody.

“It’s a mixed reality set, which means that you’re

Unreal Engine also provides a library of environments that artists can customize. BrandStar has its own visual arts department that will build

Untitled-1 1

For example, instead of fixing issues in post, virtual production enables the post-production team to make

institutions and employers to better develop the next

And if you handle it in a really ethical, engaged way, it can be a wonderful partnership.”

7/16/24 4:21 PM

BUSINESS PROJECTORS Short-throw projectors can be very effective in educational environments.

Closer to the Action

Short-Throw Projectors Offer Advantages in Classrooms

By Mark J. Pescatore

the big image they project from a short distance,” he said.

Another selling point is that short-throw projectors do not require special installation considerations beyond those needed for standardthrow projectors. According to Yann Sablayrolles, product manager projector, Panasonic Connect North America, short-throw units are generally easier to install and maintain.

The 1-DLP Panasonic Connect PT-RQ7L delivers 4K resolution, 7,500 lumens, and up to a 400-inch image, depending on the lens.

surface while still creating the same size image,” he “The traditional reason for a short-throw

explained. “They offer greater installation

projector was to support interactive whiteboards,”

flexibility with minimal cost increase and no

recalled Bob Wudeck, senior director of business

sacrifice in performance or features. They are

development, BenQ North America. “In 2024, the

incredibly good space savers.”

primary reason for short-throw projectors is to

P

“They can be mounted on ceilings, desktops, or carts—and can be placed closer to the display

enable a larger screen in a smaller space. Emerging

Educational Applications

rojector manufacturers invite teachers to get

markets like simulation, floor projection, and

Experts agree that short-throw projectors can be

closer to the action—or at least the lesson

immersive rooms require short-throw projectors to

effective in classroom environments. From a

plan—with short-throw projectors. As the

enable larger images without having to mount the

practical standpoint, short-throw units can

projector so far back that it is impractical.”

accommodate installations where there isn’t enough

product category implies, short-throw projectors are positioned closer to the screen than a traditional or

Billy Harrison, product manager, mainstream

standard-throw projector. That means they’re a bet-

video projectors, Optoma, agreed that short-throw

are obstructions in the ceiling where the projector

ter choice in tight quarters, but that’s not the only

models are great for space-constrained

would typically be placed, according to Ryan Pitterle,

advantage these projectors provide for educational

environments. “The number one reason short-

senior project manager, projectors, Sharp. But there

facilities.

throw projectors have grown in popularity is due to

are other benefits as well.

26

SCN // August 2024 // avnetwork.com

distance to place a standard-throw projector or there

PROJECTORS BUSINESS LG offers a compact 4K short-throw projector option with the ProBeam BU53RG, which delivers 5,000 lumens and advanced digital image adjustments.

“Generally speaking, when you’re

“this is a good option for those

in a smaller classroom where the

looking to use their projector in a

professor and/or students will be

variety of settings and

moving around a lot within the

applications.”

classroom, short-throw projectors are

Generally, Shen said short-

the best option because they have

throw projectors have fewer lens

specific features to reduce exhaust

options compared to traditional

noise and unwanted distractions when

projectors. If your short-throw

students are seated close to the

projector has a fixed lens, Shen said

projector,” Sablayrolles said.

there is less flexibility in adjusting

“Short-throw projectors require

the throw distance, which could be a

significantly less throw distance and

limitation in larger or irregularly

are less prone to shadowing from

shaped rooms. Pitterle advised

participants in the room,” added

installers to pay attention to the

Harrison. “When using standard-

throw ratio, which is the throw

throw projectors, participants and

distance divided by screen width.

viewers moving close to or in front of

Projectors usually fall into three

the projector can create a shadow,

categories based on their throw

which is undesirable and distracting for

ratio. While estimates vary

others.”

between manufacturers, Oey said

“One key factor is installation

standard-throw projectors

volume, which refers to the total space

generally have a throw ratio greater

needed to create an image of a certain

than 1.0, while the throw ratio for

size,” explained Daniel Oey, senior IT

short-throws is around 0.75-1.0

product manager, LG Business

and ultra-short-throws have a

Solutions. “Flat-panel displays and

throw ratio less than 0.5.

direct-view LEDs have a thin installation volume, as they are mounted directly to the display surface.

Wudeck differentiated between One of Optoma’s most compact Full HD short-throw projectors, the ZH450ST delivers up to a 120-inch image and is compatible with the Optoma Management Suite monitoring solution.

However, standard-throw projectors

the three most popular types of short-throw projectors. “Home theater ultra-short-throw

will need a larger installation volume, as they need

larger than the maximum size supported by most

projectors are placed close to a wall and have

to be placed at a distance away from the display

fixed lens short-throw projectors. But Wudeck said

integrated speakers, while immersive projectors for

surface to create a larger image.

new 4K short-throw laser projectors are “especially

museums and simulation rooms are designed for

well-suited to lecture halls, enabling 300-inch

very large images and blended together,” he said.

highly relevant member of a portfolio of display

screens with Rec. 709 color accuracy that can

“The traditional classroom models typically have a

solutions. For larger images, projectors are often

replicate complicated organic colors in fine detail for

maximum image size of 130 inches and are designed

more cost-effective from an image size

science and art lecture halls.”

for whiteboards.”

throw projectors are a good choice for both

Lens Options

with projectors that can be placed even closer to the

classrooms and larger lecture halls, because they

Are there limits with lens choices? That depends on

screen, often from only a few inches, while providing

offer a good balance of smaller installation volume,

the projector model you choose. “Some short-throw

a full-sized image. “The difference between short-

image quality, brightness, and cost effectiveness.”

projectors come with fixed lenses, which provide

throw and ultra-short-throw is the lens throw ratio

advantages in projector size and cost, while other

and lens design,” Harrison explained. “Short-throw

Shen, senior business line manager, ViewSonic, said

projectors have the ability to change lenses for more

projectors use a standard front-of-the-projector

short-throw projectors “might not always be the

flexibility, but typically results in a bigger and more

lens that can be easily identified by the round

best choice due to the limited throw distances and

expensive projector,” Oey said.

protruding lens.”

“While an older option, projectors are still a

perspective,” Oey continued. “Ultimately, short-

Opinions on lecture hall use are more mixed. Mia

potential brightness limitations.” Pitterle added that large lecture halls often require screens that are

“While there’s a cost associated with interchanging lenses,” Sablayrolles acknowledged,

Yes, ultra-short-throw is another subcategory,

“Ultra-short-throw projectors can create large images from very short distances, resulting in a

From left, Daniel Oey, Billy Harrison, Bob Wudeck, Ryan Pitterle, Yann Sablayrolles, and Mia Shen

avnetwork.com // August 2024 // SCN

27

BUSINESS PROJECTORS

provide sufficient adjustment,” Pitterle added, “but professional installation is still recommended.”

Sablayrolles said a short-throw projector body can often be bigger and heavier than a traditional projector because of the size of the lens, and he also warned about potential sensitivity to screen imperfections.

“It’s really important that you have a perfect screen or wall to project on,” he noted. “Since the projector is placed close to the screen, it is much easier to see imperfections/issues with a screen while using a short-throw projector.”

Sharp’s PE456UL Easy Installation Series LCD projector offers 4,500 lumens and WUXGA resolution for clear images in challenging applications.

And, of course, there’s cost. If you want that extra flexibility, expect to pay for the convenience. “Shortthrow projectors are often more expensive than

small installation volume and almost eliminating

distance of 3.6 feet and an even larger 120-inch image

traditional projectors with similar specifications,”

the possibility of shadows,” Oey said. “They achieve

from a longer throw distance of 4.3 feet,” he explained.

Shen confirmed.

this by using powerful aspherical lenses. However,

“Short-throw projectors cannot be used from the

as a result they are typically more expensive. Also,

middle or the rear of the room, as the projector image

because they are placed close to the display surface,

size will be too large and have poor focus.”

the projected image is sensitive to projector mount

In applications where large screens are needed, a

alignment and display surface flatness, which can

short-throw projector may not suffice. “Traditional

cause image distortion.”

fixed lens, short-throw projectors sometimes have

Considerations and Limitations

limitations to the maximum screen size supported,” Pitterle said. Go bigger than that limited

Short-throw projectors do not require a special kind of

image size and your image can lose focus on

screen, so standard drop-downs or fixed-frame

the edges, Wudeck added.

models are just fine. And for a traditional classroom,

There is also the issue of no (or very

Wudeck said you can use any screen or whiteboard

limited) zoom capabilities. As Harrison

made in the last 20 years. “For environments with

observed, most Pro AV short-throw

high ambient lighting, a short-throw projector can be

projectors with fixed or interchangeable

used with an ALR [ambient light rejection] screen,”

lenses are limited to 1.15x zoom. “This is

Harrison advised. “ALR screens reject ambient light

the nature of short-throw lens projectors

back into the environment, allowing for bright and

overall and not a limitation of any

crisp images even in bright rooms.”

particular projector company,” he noted.

Any technology has its limits, and there are some

That lack of zoom means installation

disadvantages associated with short-throw projectors,

can also be challenging, due to the

staring with less installation flexibility. As Shen

precision needed to square the image

explained, the limited throw distance means these

on the screen. As Wudeck noted, if

models are generally not suitable for very large rooms

your projector doesn’t offer lens shift

or lecture halls where the projector needs to be placed

and/or zoom, your projector has to be

far from the screen.

mounted exactly right to properly fill

Harrison also emphasized the need to mount or

Below Part of ViewSonic’s Luminous Superior series, the LS711HD delivers 4,200 lumens and a lifespan of up to 30,000 hours.

the screen. “Most mounts will

place the projector close to the projection surface. “For example, a mainstream short-throw projector like the ZH450ST can generate a 100-inch image with a throw

Right BenQ’s LH600ST offers 1080p resolution, 2,500-lumen brightness, built-in 10W speaker, selectable aspect ratio, and wireless Wi-Fi projection with an optional dongle.

Check Your Distance

Ready to install your short-throw projector? According to Sharp’s Ryan Pitterle, you can mount it to the ceiling using a standard ceiling mount or with a wall mount attached just above the screen. For a less permanent solution, you can place it close to the screen on a pedestal or table. Some manufacturers even offer custom mobile projector carts, such as the Epson ELPCS01, which is designed exclusively for its PowerLite 810E/815E 3LCD short-throw projectors.

If you need help to determine the best configuration of the room and projector placement, there are several online tools that can help. For example, Panasonic Connect offers a throw distance calculator and Optoma has its own projection calculator. Both sites let you calculate projected image size, projection distance, and more based on specific Short-throw projectors offer several mounting options.

28

SCN // August 2024 // avnetwork.com

models and lenses.

PHOTO BY CARL LUKINGS

BUSINESS PROJECTORS

Captivating Congregations Projectors Remain Appealing Option for House of Worship Installations

By James Careless

C

Churches like Bethel Baptist Church in Fergus, Ontario, rely on projectors to share song lyrics, readings, video content, and more with their congregations.

arl Lukings is the proprietor of Horizon

Importance of Affordability

Solutions, an AV integrator/installer based

When asked why houses of worship choose video

laser projectors deliver clear, crisp, and bright

But don’t let the lower price fool you: Today’s

in London, Ontario. Over his 40 years in

projectors over video walls and other display

images in small packages. So, although projectors

business, Lukings has installed a lot of projectors

options, Lukings responded with a one-word

may not be everyone’s top choice, they are a highly

in houses of worship. Based on his vast experi-

answer: cost.

acceptable, high-performance option for even the

ence in this area, Lukings and his system design-

“Churches are using video projectors in their

ers at Horizon know why video projection remains

worship and teaching spaces because of the low cost

so appealing to houses of worship, be they big or

of these systems compared to the alternatives,” he

way, such as on a ceiling or another high point

small, modern or traditional.

explained. “If money were no object, many would

within the church. When coupled with a motorized

love to install video walls or direct-view LED

screen that can be retracted when not in use, a

variety of applications in their sanctuary spaces and

displays because of the inherent advantages of those

projector can be a model of technological discretion.

during their worship services,” he explained.

technologies, including ultra-bright images and the

In those instances where video is being projected

“Projecting song lyrics, hymns, scripture readings,

ability to have people, objects, and sometimes set

onto a church wall, the process is even simpler.

and other liturgical text is common, but projection

pieces close to the display — something that’s not

is also being used for announcements, sermon

as easy to achieve with video projection. The

where the video image may not be required or seen

illustrations, and teaching notes, as well as video

problem is that these alternatives to video

as being appropriate in the space, retracting the

content—everything from content that is

projectors are cost prohibitive for congregations

screen solves the problem of visibility,” said

specifically produced for the church market as well

funded through offerings.”

Lukings. “That’s not possible with a video wall or a

“Churches today use video projection for a wide

as anecdotal videos from YouTube and other

Just how affordable are video projectors

smallest of congregations.

Projectors can also be mounted in a less intrusive

“For a funeral, wedding, or other church event

direct-view LED display.”

sources. We’ve installed hundreds of projectors.

compared to video walls and dvLEDs? Lukings said it

Over 25 of them have been Christie Inspire Series

depends somewhat on the specifications and the

Lumens, Lumens, Lumens

1-DLP laser projectors.”

requirements, but it’s “usually a fraction of the cost.

When it comes to most-desired features, most

Often a quarter of the price or sometimes less.”

churches start with resolution. “Questions about 4K

“AV technology plays an essential role in engaging and captivating a congregation,” agreed

“LED video walls are a great solution for places

and higher resolutions come up regularly,” Lukings

Joe Mercier, Christie’s senior sales manager. “We

of worship that have the space and budget, and want

observed. “But at the end of the day, the resolution

live in a visual world, and projected images help

to engage a larger congregation,” Mercier agreed.

is much less important than how bright the

communicate messages and keep congregations

“However, projection is a much more affordable and

projector is—given the distance and the size of

engaged.”

versatile option.”

images that are being produced in church

30

SCN // August 2024 // avnetwork.com

PROJECTORS BUSINESS

applications, any modern resolution will do if the

Screens from time to time. “We still see that the

image is bright enough.”

majority of churches are using motorized retractable

“Price and brightness are major considerations

screens,” Lukings said. “However, fixed screens are

for this market,” added Mercier. “A projector needs

also found in a good portion of our church projects.

to deliver a great lumen-to-price ratio.”

There are also many churches that don’t use

Delivering the right ratio can be a challenge in

traditional screen surfaces at all. Instead, they

churches outfitted with multiple windows that allow

project onto a flat wall treated with a specific

sunlight to pour in. “A quality projector coupled

‘projection screen’ paint.”

with a screen designed for higher ambient light

One last point from Lukings: When choosing a

conditions can make all the difference in creating an

video transport system for projectors, opt for a

impactful image,” Mercier explained. “In some

video-over-IP solution rather than broadcast-based

situations, other controls may be needed, like

SDI. “In a church application, where you never know

window shades, to manage sunlight. An experienced

what sort of content somebody is wanting to be able

integrator who can visit the site can help guide the

to project, having a video-over-IP system in place

place of worship to a solution that is ideal for them.”

ensures HDCP compliance and the option to send

Houses of worship are also interested in

16:10 format images,” he explained. “Also, this

longevity and equipment serviceability. In the past,

technology provides additional flexibility for video

using projectors that relied on lamps, filters, and

routing and expansion of the system in the future.

other consumables—and required scheduled

Video-over-IP or HDBaseT solutions provide a

maintenance—made life difficult (and expensive)

great infrastructure for today’s needs and into

for congregations, particularly those who relied on

the future.”

volunteers to keep the church running. Modern

The fact that projectors rule in the houses of

laser projectors have considerably eased service

worship market—while projection screen

demands for churches, keeping costs down and

preferences vary widely—says a lot about this

aging volunteers off ladders.

particular client base. Although they want to provide

As for the type of projectors that are best suited

professional-quality AV to their congregations,

for houses of worship? The choice depends on the

churches as clients generally lack the budget,

church, Lukings noted. Horizon sells more

expertise, and trained support staff to afford

projectors with a traditional “middle of the road”

higher-end AV solutions.

lens ratio, in part because they are the least

That said, “The key to have a successful video

expensive lenses, but the company also sells

installation in a church is listening to the client’s needs

short-throw projectors when warranted.

and gaining an understanding of what it is that they’re

“Christie’s Inspire DWU960ST-iS is a great

hoping to achieve,” advised Lukings. “It’s also

solution for churches looking for a short-throw

important to understand that the investment in

solution at a great price point,” he added. “If we are

technology that these

working on a rear-projection application, then

churches are making will

certainly a short-throw projector is the right

need to evolve as they learn

solution.”

how to make the technology benefit their ministries. So

Screen Suggestions

don’t be afraid to shoot a

As for projection surfaces of choice? Again, product

little bit higher than what

preferences are diverse because each application is

the minimum would be to

different. “It’s dependent on the venue,” said

make the sale. Being good

Mercier. “Some places of worship have ornate

stewards with their

woodwork or millwork that they want to keep

finances is on every church

visible. Screens that retract enable these features to

leader’s mind. They will

be seen when projection is not used.”

appreciate a good

Horizon tends to install Draper screens, but also selects products from Da-Lite and Strong/MDI

investment in the long term.”

“We live in a visual world, and projected images help communicate messages and keep congregations engaged.”

Joe Mercier, Christie avnetwork.com // August 2024 // SCN

31

Projectors from Christie and other manufacturers can be mounted on the ceiling to minimize distraction.

BUSINESS BLUEPRINT FOR SUCCESS

JA_INTER/GETTY IMAGES

Are You Experienced?

Hiring for Potential Can Bring Fresh Energy, but Requires a Larger Upfront Time Investment

By Matt Czyzweski

A

Work experience and how someone presents

on the fly. This isn’t to say experienced individuals

themselves on paper via their resume tell us about a

can’t pivot when needed; it’s just that the odds aren’t

candidate’s background and capabilities. Still, it

as favorable.

ny activity you or your team spends time

doesn’t provide reliable data on critical topics like

People with potential are often hungry to learn

on has ROI associated with it—how will

communication abilities, teamwork, interpersonal

and gain on-the-job experience, which means you are

what I’m doing make or save money for the

skills, conflict resolution, stress management, etc.

investing in your (and their) future since it will take

company? That includes hiring team members. Hiring

And some people interview well, but the wheels sort

time for this person to get up to speed. Most job skills

the right people is one of the most important uses of

of fall off when they get into the job.

can be taught, so you may want to hone in on several

time, because the outcome can have such a significant impact, good or bad, on the team’s morale and output.

We can all think of instances when the person who’s hired has a great background and lots of relevant

When you consider it holistically, the hiring

experience, but it doesn’t work out. Even with years of

process is often time intensive, from writing the job

interview and management experience, hiring someone

description to posting the position and monitoring

who’s not a good fit still happens.

innate soft skills that are equally important to technical experience:

• Are they a quick learner?

• Do they have good social and communication skills (i.e., are they personable)?

• Can they think on their feet?

• Are they ambitious or motivated?

• Do they have an overall positive attitude?

job applicants to interviewing and making a selection.

The most significant risk in hiring is rushing the

It’s also a very subjective process because, beyond the

process. While the workload may be overwhelming,

resume, you’re dealing with emotions, opinions, and

hiring the wrong person can exacerbate the situation.

personalities.

Inefficient hires can impact team morale and

For these hires, you need to be comfortable with

productivity, leading to a need for a new hiring

them making mistakes as they learn and grow, being

likely a person will fit in with the team, but they are

process sooner than expected. It’s crucial to balance

a time parasite by asking lots of questions at first, and

really a guide, not a guaranteed fit. It’s best to have a

the urgency of the workload with the need for a

not performing tasks as quickly or efficiently as other,

feel for the type of candidate and qualifications you’re

comprehensive and thoughtful hiring process.

more seasoned team members. However, everyone

Psychological profiling tests can indicate how

searching for before kicking off the process—and even then, you may be surprised at how different the

Adaptability Advantages

team’s perspectives are right from the start.

Let’s be clear: A candidate with potential must have

How We Usually Hire

both the capacity and willingness to learn. Opting to

needs that first opportunity for someone to believe they can be an asset to the company. We were all that person at some point in our careers.

hire for potential can yield numerous advantages over

Choose Your Path

We often hire based on experience; it’s how we’re

hiring an experienced candidate. These individuals

There are several scenarios for hiring for potential

trained or conditioned. The first requirement on most

often inject fresh energy and novel perspectives into

instead of experience and vice versa. First, you must

job descriptions is “must have X years of experience.”

the team, unburdened by the past or the “I tried that

understand whether the current job market favors

The reason a new person is being added is that there’s

before and it didn’t work” mindset.

employers (lots of people looking for jobs but fewer

too much work to go around, so by default, no one on

A person with potential is often more adaptable,

the team will likely have time to train someone new.

as well as more willing to try new things and change

32

SCN // August 2024 // avnetwork.com

job openings) or employees (lots of jobs but fewer job seekers). That may sway you one way or the other,

BLUEPRINT FOR SUCCESS BUSINESS

knowing what the applicant pool may look like.

Suppose there are not a lot of experienced

consider in such scenarios.

my career, and it worked out very well for the

When you interview someone with potential and

organization. However, at least one instance comes to

candidates available. In that case, you may have to be

want to bring them on board, as a hiring manager, you

mind where the new hire did not get onboarded very

willing to take a chance on someone with potential

may have to use your veto power over the team’s

well by me or the rest of the organization, and it did

and reorganize job responsibilities on the team. Then

choice of candidate. As mentioned earlier, we are

not work out well. When this happens, everyone

again, moving someone laterally into that role and

conditioned to hire based on experience, and your

loses—the employee with potential and the company.

bringing someone new into the lateral position may

team may naturally lean toward a candidate with

be better. It’s somewhat of a case-by-case basis.

more experience. But the decision is yours.

For example, if one of your senior technical people

The decision to hire candidates with potential versus experienced employees is multifaceted and hinges on the specific job needs and the team’s

leaves the company, you need to find a suitable

Sync for Success

replacement. Suppose you have a deep “bench” of

If you decide to onboard the candidate with potential,

existing team member talent. In that case, promoting

you need to help ensure their chances for success,

Hiring for potential can bring fresh perspectives,

from within to fill the role is likely the best way to go,

which is entirely worth it for the right person. Here

enthusiasm, and the potential for skill development

because it gives the promoted individual room to grow

are some things the hiring manager and candidate

tailored to the company’s unique culture and

within your organization and allows you to hire

must be synchronized on for success:

processes. On the other hand, experienced

someone into their former role with the potential to

•

long-term goals. Regardless, you need a plan and a willingness to course correct as needed.

A clear description of the role, responsibilities,

professionals offer immediate expertise, a track

grow. However, if existing employees are not a good

and deliverables, particularly SMART-driven

record of proven performance, and the ability to

fit or are not interested in moving up, it’s best to seek

goals (Specific, Measurable, Achievable,

mentor and lead within the organization. A balanced

outside, experienced talent.

Relevant, and Time-Bound).

approach, where both types of employees are valued

What knowledge and skills are needed, which

and utilized strategically, often yields the best

requirements and evolving goals, it’s essential to

ones must be improved, and how the candidate

results. By understanding and leveraging the

hire someone who can adapt on the fly. This is

can improve them.

strengths of each group, companies can foster

When creating a new position with flexible job

because the nature of the role is likely to change as the business needs become more apparent.

Therefore, the candidate’s willingness and ability to adjust and learn new skills are crucial factors to

•

• Expectations regarding the time it will take to

innovation, maintain operational efficiency, and

get them where you want them to be and regular

build a dynamic workforce poised for sustained

check-ins on progress.

success.

I recall doing the above in several instances over

Matt Czyzewski is the executive VP at AtlasIED.

TECHNOLOGY CORPORATE VIDEO

CHRIS COOPER

Corporate Connectivity

Charter Communications moved into its current headquarters in 2022.

Charter Communications Auditorium Features Broadcast-Quality Technology

life of the fit-out, the auditorium design strived for a

By Jennifer Guhl

integrator Diversified to deliver a highly utilized

more integrated and refined aesthetic aligning with its

space with high-level broadcast capabilities.

more prominent use case,” said Hancock.

tamford, CT, may be known as “The City

Independent Infrastructures

and impactful audio for various events. The network

That Works,” but the downtown headquar-

Integrating advanced technology within a

includes JBL PSB-1 soundbars placed on each side of

ters for Charter Communications and its

sophisticated design, the larger scope of the project

the video wall and connected to the HDMI matrix for

new 250-seat auditorium space may just be known

included typical AV and broadcast production

high-quality audio output. Custom-configured

as “The HQ That Connects.” Part of the latest phase

components while dealing with specialty

amplifiers are integrated to provide adequate power

of developing its innovative campus, which opened

components, including an auditorium wrapper and an

and control for the speakers. Advanced audio

in 2022, the auditorium is positioned to be the next

interactive fountain in the adjacent courtyard. “Each

processors ensure optimal sound quality and

evolution of a campus centered around collabora-

of these systems had independent infrastructure

distribution, and provide the flexibility to meet a wide

tion, flexibility, and innovation.

requirements and phasing needs which had to be

range of event requirements while supporting

S

Addressing the changing landscape of hybrid

resolved within tight assemblies and minimal

The JBL audio system was designed to deliver clear

multiple audio formats.

The entire system is housed and organized in a

work while offering multi-use spaces for

footprints,” said Jeremiah Hancock, associate

events, town hall meetings, and companywide

principal, studio director CT, media &

rack system that allows all necessary components for

presentations, the auditorium is predicated

entertainment lead, HLW.

signal distribution and control to be housed in one

on ease of use and consistency. What sets it

Central to the visual capabilities of the space

optimal location. It was ensured that the auditorium

apart is its high-caliber broadcasting for

is a 12x20-foot Planar video wall that delivers

would be located away from the perimeter glass of the

remote capabilities, a feature that is sure to

HD video presentations and offers adequate

building due to its proximity to the local train station,

impress. With a build and integration that took

viewing no matter where you are seated within

helping the team limit any acoustical challenges that

about eight months from the start of

the auditorium space. “While typical

may have been caused.

construction through

conference rooms incorporate

completion, Charter

architectural detailing to

Lights and Mics

collaborated with architecture

accommodate the inevitable

The space includes a combination of architectural and

change in screen sizes over the

theatrical lighting on the interior, while dynamic,

firm HLW and technology

Jeremiah Hancock

decorative lighting is incorporated into the Charter’s auditorium includes a combination of architectural and theatrical lighting.

“wrapper” that encloses the suite of spaces, along with soft glowing details within the stairs and walls for greater visibility. The lowest portion of the wrapper is clad in marble and includes seamless detailing of the infographic displays near the auditorium entrance, along with a mesh ceiling stretching down to meet the floor.

“The lighting design includes a complex open cell ceiling system with over 1,900 LED nodes and 20-foot vertical RGB LED strips integrated into the auditorium’s architectural wrapper,” added Hancock.

“This setup allows for dynamic lighting effects that can be synchronized with media content for a fully immersive experience.”

The architectural lighting features continuous linear pendants designed to follow the curve of the ceiling openings. The theatrical stage lighting comprises two rows of alternating ETC Source 4 key, ETC Desire wash lights, and an ETC ColorSource Linear backlight row on the stage, enhancing visibility for performers.

Martin VC-Strip LED video strips with a 15mm

34

SCN // August 2024 // avnetwork.com

CORPORATE VIDEO TECHNOLOGY pixel pitch were used for the lighting system, and

variety of communication protocols, including

especially concerning lighting, the space as currently

Color Kinetic FlexElite IntelliHue fixtures were

Ethernet, Cresnet, and USB, and allows for real-time

outfitted has accomplished everything Charter

integrated for the ceiling nodes. P3 system controllers

multitasking and modular programming​​,” said

hoped for, fitting in seamlessly within other work

manage the LED and lighting fixtures, delivering

Travis Heitchew, enterprise program manager with

areas within its headquarters. “The auditorium

synchronized operation and real-time control. The

Diversified.

space has been successfully received and is highly

system also allows for the integration of video and

Even though the partners said the new

lighting controls through a unified platform,

auditorium space is open to continuous evolution,

supporting both DMX and Art-Net protocols.

With a wide range of speaking and presentation scenarios planned for the auditorium space, the microphone system included wireless mics for mobility as well as handheld and lavalier mics to accommodate all speaking preferences, ensuring a clear audio presentation no matter where the presenter was located. The microphone network is managed through an integrated control system, including signal processing and feedback prevention, ensuring seamless integration with the room’s more extensive audio setup.

Versatile audio options, combined with simplified docking and content sharing, make the spaces more universally accessible. "These components together create a comprehensive audio system that supports high-quality sound reinforcement for any event held in the auditorium," said Michael Branca, project manager with Diversified.

Local and Remote Control After careful consideration with internal subject matter experts across the Spectrum team, Charter identified the need for an on-site production studio and control room to enhance the auditorium space’s production capabilities, helping to record and deliver company-wide messages and announcements along with other Spectrum branded content. “While the facility does not have the redundancy typical of a television broadcast studio, it packs all of the capabilities into a creatively packaged suite of spaces, set within a larger pre-function and event space at the ground floor of their campus,” Hancock explained.

Due to their complexity, a specialty team manages the auditorium and studio control systems. Still, presets are available to the end user to facilitate the use of basic WebEx and content sharing capabilities.

The internal, on-site team manages any needs for planned large-scale events.

The Crestron CP3N control system manages the auditorium, 50 conference rooms across 15 floors, and a conference center on the plaza level. Charter’s internal IT services department can operate the system locally through touchpanels at the AV equipment racks and within the auditorium, while having the ability to manage remotely via web interfaces. Supported by a private, isolated IP network, it can issue alerts and failover commands, and the backend hardware is protected by a UPS system, ensuring reliability and high availability during all events.

“This system provides a dedicated Control Subnet, allowing for seamless control and management of all connected devices. It supports a

avnetwork.com // August 2024 // SCN

35

utilized by many teams across the headquarters population,” added Hancock.

TECHNOLOGY TECH PERSPECTIVES

The Emperor Has No Clothes Once Again Why Does the Growing Hype Storm Surrounding GenAI Feel So Familiar?

By David J. Danto

I actually went to work for that other company a couple of years later and discovered that all the units I

I

had specified were replaced with PC-based iPower

network to connect, and a dedicated room to be “remediated” to hold it.

When that system was introduced to our firm, I

n life, some people are blessed with tremendous

units. Someone in charge was told (and believed) that

raised immediate concerns with my superiors about

athletic skills, some with artistic expertise,

if they needed videoconferencing anyway, they might

how naked that particular emperor was. “Why should

and some with business acumen. I’m blessed

as well put a PC in the room to do it.

we spend half a million bucks on a video system, and

(or cursed) with the ability to smell BS a mile away.

Ugh. These were flat-out terribly designed

in many cases almost as much to remediate a room,

Methinks there is more BS amongst the flowers in

machines that took a very long time to boot up and

just to have a system that needed dedicated power,

our garden.

use. The people who made that choice didn’t care

cooling, and overlay networks with tight

about that detail—until they were actually sitting in a

management and huge bandwidth? If we add the

comments in recent videos and webcasts, you might

meeting room to have a videoconference and one of

network, bandwidth, and management to the devices

incorrectly conclude that I hate generative AI. I don’t.

the units failed and needed to be rebooted. Those

we already have, they’d work flawlessly and no new

It’s only that I’ve spent a long career sniffing out the

instances were some of the longest bouts of 10-20

systems would be needed.”

hype amongst realities, and I have a feeling that the

minutes (with all my firm’s leaders looking at me)

current fascination with GenAI is no different than

that I ever spent. There was no one there that cared

non-existent Cisco robes, purchased not by

previous hype storms.

that the actual problem was a naked emperor a couple

technology experts like me, but via executive-to-

of years earlier.

executive conversations on junkets.

If you’ve read any of my recent social posts or my

Believe me, I don’t like having to be the person that shouts “the emperor has no clothes” one little

About five years later, the “immersive

It was no use. All they saw were the beautiful,

Telepresence was such a powerful hype storm that

bit—but I like it even less when everybody goes about

telepresence” phenomenon began. If you were in the

every vendor in the space followed suit in a race to get

praising clothes that they know darn well are not

industry back then, I’m sure you remember it.

these immersive systems installed. It also created

there just to ensure they don’t get left out.

Learning From the Past

We lived in an atmosphere where business leaders hated the usually unreliable videoconferencing.

(from scratch) an entire, expensive technology exchange industry to connect them all.

Unstable ISDN connections were still in the majority

Of course, after way too many years, someone

This is hardly the first time that I’ve had to deal with

use case, networked video (H.323) was in its infancy,

realized that the specific nakedness in this case was

this kind of situation in my professional career. In the

companies rarely had effective QoS on their networks,

tremendous. In addition to all the costs above, these

early 2000s, when I was in charge of purchasing a

and no one managed internal or external calling plans

dedicated rooms were useless for regular meetings.

bunch of videoconferencing

very well. Enterprise AV and IT teams in those days

Two people couldn’t review a spreadsheet or chat

gear for a new financial

often requested 24-48 hours notice to ensure that a

about a project and use the table and screens, because

services company building, I

reserved intercompany call would be trouble free (and

(duh) all the chairs faced the wall, not each other.

selected some appliances that

it still often wasn't).

I knew were reliable. Then,

In that environment, a Cisco team was assembled

millions installing these immersive telepresence

the building I was working on

(with the admitted trait of being non-experts about

rooms spent millions again ripping them out.

got sold to a competing

how videoconferencing of the day worked) to develop

Another naked emperor bit the dust.

company.

a solution. They made a new product, sometimes inventing approaches that hadn’t really been tried,

The Latest Hype Storm

sometimes reinventing the wheel.

Naked emperors are always seemingly on the verge of

GETTY IMAGES

At its first internal Cisco demo, it was immediately

36

Within six or seven years, companies that spent

taking over the technology industry’s collective

productized, even though the team lead pleaded that

consciousness. Most recently, we had to get past the

it was hardly ready. It used around 20 MBps of

naked Metaverse to even get to the current state of

bandwidth per unit and needed outboard air

fawning over AI.

conditioning, special power, an enormous overlay

GenAI is wonderful. I have no doubt that as a new

Every vendor has an AI story, product, service, or position. Probably only about 20% are real enough to actually still be here in a year or two.

SCN // August 2024 // avnetwork.com

TECH PERSPECTIVES TECHNOLOGY

tool that we can use when needed, a lot of what we’re

AI’s flowing robes and silk suits. AI is a weapon in our

at you behind your back if you and/or your risk

seeing today helps quite a bit.

arsenal—and a really great, if sometimes unreliable, one.

management teams are blinded by the hype of these

But the vendors involved in the large language

You can create great work with GenAI assistance if you

latest awesome duds that aren’t really there.

models (LLMs) are not saying it’s a new tool; they’re

follow a solid plan: Create a good prompt, study and

David J. Danto is the principal analyst with

not trying to sell us better screwdrivers. Instead, most

verify the AI output, edit it, and start again as many times

TalkingPointz and director of emerging technology

are generally claiming that AI is the new foundation to

as you need to. But the emperor’s tailor may be laughing

for the IMCCA.

better business processes and a better world. If you weren’t sure if this was another case of invisible robes, the overhype should be your first clue.

AI is most definitely the current naked emperor.

Every vendor has an AI story, product, service, or position. Probably only about 20% are real enough to actually still be here in a year or two. As I hear all the news, announcements, and general fawning over the amazing new clothes, I’m choosing not to get caught up in any of it. Here’s why.

First, as other analysts have explained, AI is different than past technologies. There shouldn’t really be an expectation that GenAI will get any better than it is today. We don’t understand how people think, so we can’t do anything but simulate the process with computers.

We also don’t understand why LLM simulations hallucinate—or generate plausible-sounding outputs that are factually incorrect—so we can’t really fix that, either. Currently, the best we have to address output reliability so far are services that aggregate the output of many LLMs with the hope that a consensus will catch the glaring errors. Which, of course, raises the question: What if they’re all wrong?

Next, we should look at how most of the major collaboration vendors are praising automatic meeting summaries as the next nirvana in time savings and productivity. In this case, we have to keep in mind that a process is only as good as its weakest link. The weakest link in automated meeting summaries are the microphones that record the voices that make the transcript.

Are we really advocating for creating legally discoverable meeting records (that can’t be edited in most cases) where bad audio turns a few spoken “cans” into a “can’ts” and “dos” into “don’ts?” Watch a few videos on LinkedIn with closed captions to get a feel for just how inaccurate these summaries could be. Lawyers are already salivating to get some of these glaringly wrong summaries entered as evidence somewhere.

Speaking of lawsuits, the sheer number of them already filed against LLMs and how they’ve stolen materials from copyrighted newspapers, books, and other sources for their training is constantly growing.

When you really look at the details of these cases, you’ll conclude that none of them represent trivial claims.

Either our copyright laws will need to be rewritten, a lot of money will need to change hands, or the current iteration of LLMs will burn to ashes. I believe it will be some combination of all three.

Finally, none of these points even address the costs, power, and cooling required (that sounds familiar), not to mention the security of any organization’s data.

My advice to everyone is to stop agreeing that you see

avnetwork.com // August 2024 // SCN

37

The Jabra PanaCast 50 is built to accommodate meetings with multiple participants.

TECHNOLOGY PRODUCT REVIEW

Jabra Videobar Is Built for Busy Meetings PanaCast 50 Offers Extensive Features, Dynamic Results

keep the view from the PanaCast 50 docked on top of the control interface or open it in a separate window and move it elsewhere. Using the digital D-pad, you can pan left or right, tilt up and down, and zoom in and out. There are also camera settings accessible from the main menu that give you control over zoom speeds, transition styles, video stitching, field of view, and more. The unit can even be set up to alert users if the safety capacity limit of the room has been exceeded.

By Chuck Gloman

meetings and/or my next holiday gathering.

Once set up, Virtual Director detects all

I

Intelligence Test

participants in the room and, using AI and

Intelligent Zoom, a preconfigured default, centers

f your small or medium-sized meeting room

intelligent algorithms, puts the critical speakers up

the image on a human body. I tried this feature with

needs professional sound and visuals compa-

front. If there is a presenter using a whiteboard at

some of my students. They tried, without success,

rable to a video production crew—without the

the same time, the PanaCast 50 can show both with

to thwart the AI-driven framing. With only a

dual video streams.

moment of lag, the camera centered to the student

crew, of course—take a serious look at the Jabra PanaCast 50 videobar. It has an extensive feature

The best feature of the PanaCast 50 might be its

set coupled with performance that can bring your

portability. Measuring in at slightly over 2 feet long

moved. This feature evoked the comment, “When

next videoconference up to 21st century standards.

and less than 5 inches deep, the PanaCast 50 weighs

are we getting this here,” which is high praise from

about 5 pounds and can be carried anywhere,

my students.

First, let’s talk about the tech. The PanaCast 50

in the frame and changed its angle when they

features three, 13-megapixel CMOS cameras with

plugged into any computer, and be used with the

real-time switching in up to 4K30 and 6x digital

meeting platform of your choice. All inputs are

box with adjustable keystone features. Click on one

zoom. Its integrated Virtual Director uses speaker

located on the backside of the unit. Directly below

of the dots and drag to change the perspective of

tracking technology to keep the video focused on

the power button is the 12-volt AC power

the screen. If you go outside of the second yellow

who is currently speaking.

connection, a reset button, 3.5mm audio out, USB-C

box, you are alerted. Select next to display what

port, and Ethernet input.

you’ve accomplished, and then you can save or edit

Meanwhile, eight beamforming microphones and voice detection technology capture the sound,

Opening Whiteboard gives you a yellow bordered

it. On the bottom are the Image Quality functions.

which is played back through four stereo speakers

Out of the Box

(two 50mm woofers and two 20mm tweeters).

When my PanaCast 50 arrived, I promptly opened it.

viewed at an angle, I purposely maneuvered the

Residual echo is identified and removed so only the

I’ve never seen a more well packaged and laid out

board so it was off kilter. Amazingly, even at an odd

sound that’s needed is heard. Even if everyone is

videobar and speaker system. Everything is placed

angle, the perspective was corrected, and it even

speaking at the same time, each distinct voice will

in its own compartment; if you can put the square

eliminated the glare from the board. That said, the

be heard, which makes this ideal for active

peg in the square hole, you’re in business. I

whiteboard has to be positioned entirely within the

shouldn’t really dwell on the box, but these folks

view of the one of the videobar’s three cameras—

make very well-designed packaging.

and for best results, have the whiteboard positioned

Jabra Offers Updates

I also requested the optional Table Stand because I wouldn’t be mounting the unit—I

Wanting to see if our whiteboard could still be

5-12 feet from the unit.

This is an amazing piece of technology. Whether

preferred a portable option. Once all the cardboard

mounted or on a desk or table, the cameras have no

and plastic protectors were removed from the

problem seeing everything. I believe my days of

Since this review was completed, Jabra has

system, I downloaded the Jabra Direct software for

shuffling off to distant meetings are over—I’m

announced some updates to its PanaCast 50

the Sonoma 14.3.1 operating system on my Mac,

going to stay put and use the PanaCast 50.

videobar. First, it has been certified for

then connected the unit to my MacBook Pro laptop

Microsoft’s Intelligent Speaker functionality,

via the supplied USB-C cable.

and will soon introduce Microsoft People

Open the Jabra Direct software and the Jabra

Maybe this is sad to say, but why would anyone want to travel to another location for a meeting when you have a Jabra? The Jabra PanaCast 50 is

Recognition functionality, which recognizes and

PanaCast 50 menu screen provides access to device,

perfect for any meeting anytime and anywhere. Its

adds the names of in-room participants to both

pairing, updates, settings, feedback, and help

video is sharp and clear, the camera follows

the meeting roster and their individual videos.

submenus. The only setup obstacle I faced was

wherever the presenter moves, the sound quality is

Also coming soon: Multi-Stream Dynamic

when I tried to configure our network via Wi-Fi,

stellar, whiteboards can be seen from any angle

Composition, which gives each individual in the

because the firewall at the university wouldn’t

without distortion, and you now have a mini-TV

meeting room their own close-up video stream

allow access. Our Ethernet at school also wasn’t

studio in your meeting room (stage makeup not

(in addition to the panoramic view of the meeting

cooperating, but I hooked it up to my home Wi-Fi

included). Save the travel costs and make sure every

room). Jabra has also introduced Jabra+, its

without a problem.

seat in the meeting is a front row seat.

cloud-based platform for remote monitoring and management of meeting rooms.

38

SCN // August 2024 // avnetwork.com

Once everything was connected, I opened Jabra

Chuck Gloman is an associate professor of the TV/

Direct and clicked on Camera Controller. From

Film Department at DeSales University. Contact

there, the Video Settings screen opened. You can

him at chuck.gloman@desales.edu.

PRODUCT REVIEW TECHNOLOGY The Sennheiser Profile has a simple control panel for easy adjustments and a handy built-in adjustable tilt.

Sennheiser Keeps It Simple Profile USB Microphone Provides Easy Upgrade for Corporate Audio

By Mark J. Pescatore

mute and gain controls is a knob that handles the mix for your headphones, allowing you to adjust the levels

A

between the mic and your device audio. The lowest s AV professionals, we all like the prover-

knob is for headphone volume adjustment.

bial bells and whistles. But sometimes,

As I’ve mentioned in previous reviews, I believe

simplicity wins the day. So it is with the

you should avoid having your freestanding mic in your

Sennheiser Profile USB microphone. Instead of bells

shot. I concede that I might be in the minority on this

and whistles, it succeeds with an uncomplicated,

one, thanks to the proliferation of online content that

compact design and strong audio performance.

gladly shows mics, boom arms, and basically any

You’ve Got the Look

other equipment that’s within reach.

So, maybe it’s no longer a big deal—but if your mic

Technically, the Profile is a condenser microphone

is going to be visible, at least make sure it’s nice to

with adjustable gain that offers a cardioid pickup

see. With its black metal housing and table stand, the

pattern and frequency response of 20Hz-20kHz. The

Profile offers a slick design that’s stylish, not

mic itself is less than 7 inches tall, including the

distracting. Sennheiser also offers the Profile in a

removeable stand, and the diameter of the stand is a

streaming set that includes a boom arm.

little less than 4 inches. As a result, the Profile does

Adobe Premiere Rush. Oh, I popped a few Ps during my monologue, and I could have used my isolation

not take up a lot of work surface real estate. It also

Gain Supreme

couldn’t be seen in my typical videoconferencing

I tend to use a speakerphone during videoconferences,

delivered a very solid audio track. Later, I used the

medium close-up when I positioned it about 1 foot in

and I generally get no complaints about my audio.

Profile when recording a video interview and got

front of me on my desk.

However, when I recorded a Google Meet and switched

nothin’ but compliments.

Also, the Profile features an adjustable tilt. You

shield to reduce the room noise, but overall the Profile

between the two sources, there was no comparison.

Now kids, you should never judge your own

can leave the mic standing straight or aim it anywhere

The Profile sounded, well, like a professional

self-worth based on what other people say about you.

within a 45-degree angle. A self-locking joint keeps

microphone.

However, it’s perfectly fine to judge your mic based on

the mic at the angle you want—no locking or screw tightening required. That’s a nice touch.

The rear of the Profile has a USB-C port (USB-C

The easy-access gain adjustment is a game changer. I can get loud when I need to, and my “radio

what other people say about it.

Case in point: I was part of a videoconference and

voice” tends to be louder than my indoor speaking

another participant—who didn’t know me and didn’t

cable included) and 3.5mm headphone jack, while the

voice. I had to crank up the gain and practically eat the

know I was reviewing the mic—commented on how

front of the mic sports four controls. The gain control

mic before I could get this thing to clip. During

much he liked the look of the Profile on the boom

knob is surrounded by an always-on green LED ring,

everyday use, I kept the mic roughly 2 feet away from

arm. (Yes, I left it in the shot on purpose.) Another

which turns yellow if your audio is clipping or red if

my mouth and was heard loud and clear during

person was very impressed with the audio quality,

your mic is muted. The mute button sits above the

videoconferences by adding maybe 25% gain.

especially considering the mic was positioned about 1

gain control knob and has its own red LED ring that

To give it a true test, I attached the Profile to my

lights when active. (Sennheiser really wanted to make

Ultimate Support Systems boom arm, stood up, and

sure you know when your mic is not hot.) Below the

recorded my June editorial in my office directly to

foot from my face, which is roughly twice the distance I use when I’m recording voiceover work.

In a later meeting, I forgot to swing my boom arm around to bring the mic closer to me. I had left the gain up from the previous meeting, but the mic was more than 2 feet away—and not pointed directly toward me. Still, we carried on our conversation for a few minutes without complaint.

Priced at $129 at B&H Photo Video and other retailers, the Sennheiser Profile USB mic will look professional on your CEO’s desk during a town hall and deliver significantly better results than a typical speakerphone. It’s also right at home on a boom arm, so your podcasts, voiceovers, and other production recordings are covered, too. Small but

For those of you who just have to have your mic in the shot, the Profile has a compact, slick design.

mighty, not to mention simple but stylish, the Profile delivers an affordable upgrade for corporate audio applications.

avnetwork.com // August 2024 // SCN

39

TECHNOLOGY NEW PRODUCTS

Yamaha Corporation of America CTL-BN1

It also features two exclusive technologies that work together to provide exceptional energy

The Yamaha CTL-BN1 is

meet viewer preferences and behaviors, leveraging

savings. ECO Standby automatically maximizes the

a versatile network

immediate feedback from footfall, dwell time,

time the amplifier operates in its lowest possible

controller designed to

people, and vehicle analytics to make informed

power state, while the Extron exclusive InstaWake+

function as a mute/

decisions. It also accelerates processing speeds to

technology gives the amplifier the ability to return

unmute button for ADECIA

100% faster than its predecessor, allowing

to full power from standby in under 5ms, ensuring

microphones and as a controller for external

businesses to support 4K60 content playback. Plus,

no part of the audio is ever cut off.

devices. It can be easily set up using existing tools

the StiX 3800 simplifies the activation process,

without any programming configuration.

requiring only a single network to carry high-

Quam SYSTEM 3

Configurable from both the RM-CR Web UI and the

resolution content and PoE, and automatic screen

Building on the success of its

RM Device Finder, it features automatic detection

activation upon detecting audiences.

previous version, the

and complete configuration with a single click. Its

redesigned SYSTEM 3

allowing for flexible placement. Plus, it

AMETEK SurgeX Vertical Series+

significantly reduces the time and effort required to

The Vertical

and enhanced performance

change settings by supporting RM-CR and RM-CG/

Series+ smart

capabilities. Whether it’s

TT/W setting items, ensuring seamless integration

power

signal tones, voice, or music, the

and efficient operation.

distribution unit

SYSTEM 3 is engineered to excel in indoor

(PDU) pairs power

environments with a maximum output of 15W@8

non-fixed design eliminates the need for drilling,

Severtson Large Studio Electric Series

wall-mounted loudspeaker offers a sleek, modern design

protection and

ohms. Boasting an 8-inch ortho-directional

The new Large Studio Electric (LST) Series screens

conditioning technology with

loudspeaker and a 5W-25/70V transformer, the

from Severtson Screens are a collection of fully

the cloud-connected power quality

loudspeaker is mounted on a rounded corner square,

customizable motorized electric projection screens

analytics, fleet management, and risk prevention

slanted, open-back, white powder-coated steel

that offer a wide range of options for big spaces that

capabilities found within the SurgeX CONNECT

enclosure, ensuring seamless integration into any

require a cinema-sized retractable screen, such as

platform. The solution allows partners to improve

educational space. The SYSTEM 3 is designed for

concert halls, auditoriums, or houses of worship.

their service offering and save time and money by

hassle-free installation—everything required comes

The screens are available in all offered gain levels

diagnosing power quality issues and monitoring

in one box, ensuring a seamless setup process and

and perforation options, so the soundstage can be

installations remotely, reducing the need for

minimal downtime for systems integrators.

placed behind the screen (similar to premier movie

expensive service call outs. Vertical Series+ comes

theaters). The LST Series also offers a choice of

in 8, 16, and 24-outlet configurations, offering

Vizrt Viz Connect Tetra

Severtson’s signature projection surfaces and

integrators a versatile and space-efficient PDU

Viz Connect Tetra simplifies remote, local, and

optical coatings. All coatings are also available in

solution that can be easily installed with or

hybrid content creation with four 4K I/O channels

Severtson’s standard or mini-perf. Screens are

alongside rack-mounted equipment. It offers

integrating HTML 5, NDI, NDI Bridge, and 12G SDI

fully customizable in any size up to 36 feet wide.

analytical software, sequencing, and monitoring

conversion in a compact, portable live production

capabilities, including remote power down and

workstation with built-in white balance and color

reboot, sequencing, power cycling, advanced

correction tools. Tetra also provides audio flexibility

scheduling, and AutoPing. Designed to protect

with support for NDI, SDI, ASIO, and WDM virtual

high-value technology and tackle the increasingly

SoundCards. Each of the four I/O channels supports

complex, processing-heavy AV systems of today,

16x16 audio routing for patching on the go.

the Vertical Series+ is compatible with popular

Effortlessly connecting to TriCaster, Vizrt graphics

control systems for integration in professional

solutions, and other NDI and SDI live production

applications.

systems, Viz Connect Tetra can be used either on

Extron XPA U 4004 FX

Navori Labs StiX 3800

production or be securely linked to NDI Bridge

audio power amplifier that can deliver 400 watts

Hosts anywhere in the world, enabling

simultaneously into 8 ohm, 4 ohm, 70V, and 100V

bi-directional sharing of content and contribution

loads—independently configurable per channel.

between any location with internet or WAN access.

Each channel of an adjacent pair dynamically draws

content and AI-driven audience engagement with

power from the pair’s total wattage, delivering

the StiX 3800, an ultra-compact, AI-powered device

optimal power where it’s needed according to

that transforms digital signage into smart,

system requirements. The flexibility allows a single

interactive experiences. It uses computer vision

unit to be set up in a variety of configurations to

technology to trigger AI-driven content and

support large systems with multiple speaker types.

comes equipped with advanced audience measurement capabilities that help users better understand their audience and how content performs. Users can tailor content on the fly to

40

SCN // August 2024 // avnetwork.com

Tetra can send and receive NDI for remote

The XPA U 4004 FX is a four-channel, multizone

Navori Labs continues to blur the lines between

generate rich data beyond displays. The StiX 3800

prem or in the cloud. With NDI Bridge Join mode,

NEW PRODUCTS TECHNOLOGY

Vanco EVEXUSB32

Chief Fusion Storage Cabinet

EVEXUSB32 HDBaseT USB 3.2 extender with an

Pliant Technologies SmartBoom LITE

extension range of 328 feet. It leverages HDBaseT-

Ideal for professional

new storage accessory was designed in response to

USB3 chipsets to extend full USB 3.2 Gen 1x1 over a

intercom users

modern AV applications that need a stylish and

single Cat6/6A cable. It is also backward compatible

working in a range of

front-serviceable AV storage solution when installing

with all prior USB standards, and includes both

applications, Pliant’s new

small devices and rack-mounted equipment behind

USB-A and USB-C ports. The EVEXUSB32 includes

headset replaces all existing

the display is not an option. It features a felt front

two devices: the host and the receiver. Leveraging

SmartBoom LITE models.

cover that blends in effortlessly with a wide variety of

Power over HDBaseT (PoH), only one unit needs to

Updates include a new field-replaceable cable and a

room decor. The storage area inside the cabinet is

be connected to external power. The host unit

newly designed swivel earcup. It incorporates a

flexible and can be configured with the included

features a single USB-C port, while the receiver has

closed back, supra-aural on-ear design and a

19-inch rackmount brackets and Lever Lock panel

three USB-A ports and one USB-C port, a

single-ear lightweight form factor for enhanced

that allows toolless integration of small AV devices.

configuration that allows the simultaneous

acoustic isolation. The ambidextrous, swiveling mic

The Fusion Storage Cabinet also includes a universal

boom is flexible and has a dynamic noise-cancelling

camera shelf to support the latest videobar

cardioid microphone optimized for voice

technology. Other features include integrated security

communications. The adjustable microphone boom

as well as passive thermal management to ensure

also acts as an on/off switch for quick muting.

proper cooling of the AV equipment.

A new addition to the company’s Evolution line, the

connection of up to four peripherals. In addition to USB signal extension, the EVEXUSB32 features

FIBER CABLES

Fusion series with the Fusion Storage Cabinet. The

Available in a non-reflective rubberized matte black

passthroughs

finish, the SmartBoom LITE headset comes with a

for RS-232

comfort fit adjustable headband and replaceable ear

controls and

pad. It’s available in 4-pin XLR female, 5-pin XLR

frame sync for

male, 6-pin mini XLR female, and unterminated

multi-camera

versions in both electret and dynamic microphone

videoconferencing or production setups.

Chief, a brand of Legrand | AV, has expanded its

models, making the line adaptable to any professional intercom system.

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 // August 2024 // SCN

41

VIEWPOINT

Making Connections Implementing AI Technology Is Changing the Pro AV Industry

By Joseph D. Cornwall

I

The power of AI is built on pattern recognition and

machines are found in basic game-playing algorithms

probabilistic outcomes.

or real-time control systems where immediate

Not too much later, in the early 2000s, DARPA

response to input is crucial. There are numerous

t may seem quaint from our perspective in

produced intelligent personal assistants. This was

algorithms and approaches within the realm of reactive

2024, when Spotify alone processes more than

long before the words Siri, Alexa, or Hey Google were

machines, each tailored to different tasks and contexts.

1 billion song streams per day, but in 1983 less

uttered in kitchens and living rooms across the

than 1 million compact discs were sold in the United

country. The PDA fused with telephony, invited a

memory component to store past experiences or

States. That number quintupled in 1984—and by

camera to the party, and we suddenly needed

observations. This allows them to make slightly more

1985, annual CD sales doubled again, to more than 10

predictive, shortcut control over powerful pocket-

complex decisions by considering recent history

million. “Digital” was a word on everyone’s lips; it

sized supercomputers.

alongside current input. They are commonly used in

was the future.

In 1986, I was fresh out of the service, a student of

It’s fair to say the AI has been with us for a long

Limited memory machines incorporate a small

applications where a modest level of context awareness

time, much longer even than the compact disc. It’s

is beneficial. The recommended movie list from your

electrical engineering, and had landed my first AV job

not news that societal interest in all things AI recently

Netflix account or the track recommendations from

selling televisions and stereo equipment for a regional

increased. According to Google, Internet searches for

your Pandora subscription are some examples. They

department store chain. “Digital ready” was a phrase

the term “artificial intelligence” or “AI” have

use algorithms that primarily focus on recent use

plastered on nearly everything imaginable in those

increased twentyfold in just the last few years.

history and profiles to provide relevant

days. There were “digital ready” headphones,

We are bombarded, almost daily, by predictions

recommendations.

speakers, and amplifiers—all of which were completely

simultaneously proclaiming that the end of the world

analog in design. I remember thinking about how

will be brought about by aberrant, self-aware

models. Supervised and unsupervised learning models

technically incorrect, and even misleading, that

computer programs—and those same smart

have very different applications and even greater

marketing speak was. It was my introduction to AV

machines will somehow save us from all the things

differences in implementation. Supervised models are

buzzwords.

from which we need to be saved. AI has become a

trained on very specific data, they plot a kind of map

pervasive meme, a chameleon that can refer to

between input and output. An unsupervised learning

enthusiastic fan of the TV show Connections. Host

whatever the marketing department determines will

model learns patterns and structures from input data

James Burke, a British science historian, would start

best sell. It’s become the “digital-ready” of today.

without explicit supervision or labeled output, aiming

Back then, I was (and remain to this day) an

AV professionals should also be aware of AI learning

out with an interesting fact from long ago, such as

Where does that leave us?

to discover hidden relationships or groupings within

how a Roman watermill and the bubonic plague led to

It’s incredibly important for AV professionals to

the data itself. They make connections.

waterpower during the Industrial Revolution. He

become conversant in the language of AI and its

At the pinnacle of AI today we find generative,

would then draw a line connecting that to the

implementation across products and services. It’s

unsupervised models like OpenAI’s ChatGPT. Other

Gutenberg printing press, the Jacquard loom, and

incumbent upon us to help our clients, colleagues,

examples you may have heard of include DeepDream,

ultimately the punch cards used in early computing.

and customers understand what is really meant by a

which creates surreal and artistic images from existing

To me this was revelatory, illustrating clearly how the

claim of something having a processor “with AI” and

ones, StyleGAN, which is used to create avatars or

progress of civilization is an interconnected web of

how that technology affects the project.

synthetic images for research, and DALL-E, which

unrelated events that nevertheless build upon each other to create amazing new futures.

What does this have to do with AI? I hope you’ll allow me to make the connection (pun intended).

A Brief History

Model Behavior Reactive AI is far and away the most common

generates images from textual descriptions. We may soon see breakthroughs in text to video or image to video synthesis, too.

implementation encountered. Reactive machines make

AI is a tool in a toolbox that dates back to the very

decisions based solely on the current input without any

beginnings of the Third Industrial Revolution. It’s a

memory or consideration of past experiences. Reactive

powerful resource that’s intimately intertwined with

Once upon a time, in the days of black-and-white

Moore’s law, predates VCRs, and opens avenues for

television, a computer scientist named Arthur Samuel

increased efficiency and unique creativity. AI will

developed a program to play checkers. This led, a few

impact the path of social evolution in much the same

years later, to mathematician John McCarthy holding

way as the electrical grid did 140 years ago.

a workshop at Dartmouth College on “artificial intelligence,” the very first use of the term.

We can expect to make new scientific and social connections that will usher in workforce

We, the TV generation, have grown up with the

transformation and healthcare advancements, as well

concept of AI and smart machines embedded in the

as address environmental challenges through climate

entertainment fabric of our culture. The Six Million

modeling. It will even advance how people

Dollar Man took us to The Terminator, who in

communicate, form relationships, and consume

turn took us to Max Headroom.

media. I believe the real impact of AI will be its

Dragon Dictate was a computer program that pioneered speech recognition in the 80s

ability to help us to make new connections and imagine the future even faster.

and early 90s. James Baker, founder of Dragon

Technology evangelist Joseph D. Cornwall has

Systems, saw the problem of speech

been part of the AVIXA faculty since 2010 and was

recognition as a pattern recognition problem.

named a member of the SCN Hall of Fame in 2024.

42

SCN // August 2024 // avnetwork.com

MALTE MUELLER/GETTY IMAGES